By Kevin Donlin,
Guaranteed Resumes
This week, I'd like to add to last week's list and talk about 3 more resume
myths that can trip you up.
Myth #4 -- You should include references in your résumé.
Reality -- NEVER include references in your résumé. Why?
You want to have control over when your references are called. If you
include them in your résumé, an employer can contact them without your
knowledge. You won't have time to prep them on the job you're seeking and
the questions they might be asked.
As a follow-up to this, it's really understood that you have references
(just as it's understood that you dial "1" before making a long-distance
call). You can use that space to talk more about how you can help an
employer. So, delete this tired phrase from your résumé: "References
available upon request."
Myth #5 -- If your résumé is good enough, it should produce a job offer.
Reality -- The job of your résumé is not to get you a job directly, although
that has happened with some of my clients. The job of your résumé is to make
the phone ring (or your e-mail box fill up) and land you a job interview.
It's YOUR job to prepare for that interview and land the job offer.
Your résumé should generate so much interest among employers that they would
have to be insane not to pick up the phone and call you. To that end, you
don't want to tell the reader your entire work history in agonizing
detail -- you can always elaborate during a job interview.
Myth #6 -- Your cover letter must be printed on stationery.
Reality -- Your letter is a business document with a separate goal from your
résumé. As such, it can go on standard white typing paper. Instead of
worrying about what paper to print your cover letter on, worry about the
content, which is far more important.
For more information on how to get a Guaranteed Resume, please go to:
http://www.CollegeRecruiter.com/guaranteed-resumes.php.
