Welcome back, everyone! The last time we met to discuss our first three common resume misconceptions. We talked about personal pronouns, action verbs, and job-specific skills. Keywords were a bonus! Now let’s continue our discussion.
You don’t need to list accomplishment numbers directly on your resume. FALSE
When you add accomplishment numbers to your resume, it also adds a personal real-life touch to an otherwise basic job description. It lets the employer know how important production is to you also. Remember, these are real production numbers. Please be warned that there is no need to exaggerate your accomplishment statements. Resist the urge to embellish any accomplishment statement.
Here is a before statement without accomplishment numbers:
- Educated board members on state and federal compliance procedures
And here it is improved with production numbers added:
- Educated 15-30 board members weekly on state and federal compliance procedures
We know “who” you educated, “approximately how many” board members there were, and “how often” you educated them. With numbers added, the updated statement paints a much more production-oriented picture of what you routinely did.
Specialty paper stock and colors bring value to the resume. FALSE
In this digital world, I advise that you keep it simple. Black print on a white background with limited distractions is also encouraged. Simple copier-style paper is enough for your resume. There is no need to invest in various paper weights or colors for this professional document. Traditionally, a resume is viewed in one of two ways – an open email or as an attachment within an application. My advice is to save your time and money.
If you weren’t aware of these common resume misconceptions, consider joining Workforce Solution’s Regional Team Facilitators for the “Job Readiness Toolkit,” Webinar to learn more.
Frieda Carmouche is a member of the Regional Facilitator Team specializing in training and development of students, job seekers, and career center staff. She is comfortable with individual coaching and large group presentations. Frieda is honored to have served and was chosen as the team’s first “Mentoring Coach.” She obtained her BFA in Graphic Communications and minored in Psychology from The University of Houston Central Campus. A native Houstonian with a passion for workforce development; she is extremely proud of her rewarding 20+ year career with Workforce Solutions.
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