Recruiters Cite R?sum? Pet Peeves, Offer Tips

Melissa Shook, division director of OfficeTeam’s Memphis branch and a Prairie Grove native, cites the book “Job Hunting For Dummies” when asked about the “dos and don’ts” of résumé writing. The book’s author is Max Messmer, chairman, president & CEO of the staffing firm’s publicly traded parent Robert Half International Inc.

Shook said a chapter called “The 12 Cardinal Sins of Résumé Writing” says it all.

“Don’t use cute words or slang,” Shook said. “Don’t put in fluff. No one cares if you play golf or what your hobbies are. Just keep it straightforward.”

Highlighting relevant work experience for the specific job being applied for is one point OfficeTeam stresses. The downside, Shook said, is an applicant may have to prepare several versions of a résumé for various jobs. But at least the right accomplishments will be highlighted for the appropriate employers.

“That’s not saying be dishonest,” Shook said. “But if you’re applying for two jobs and you have varying experience that’s more applicable to both, then you want to highlight what’s relevant for both.”

Another safe bet, she said, is to use the reverse chronological style of listing work experience rather than the “functional résumé” which highlights skills. Shook said 78 percent of employers prefer the chronological glimpse because it’s easier to follow.

“Just highlighting your attributes almost looks like you’re trying to hide something from your work history,” Shook said.

OfficeTeam, which also operates a Fayetteville office, conducted a survey in October 2000 that showed 48 percent of executives prefer to receive résumés via e-mail. That number was up from 4 percent in 1998.

Another survey this January by RésuméDoctor.com, a résumé consulting service and subsidiary of staffing firm Personal Department Inc. of South Burlington, Vt., found the top 20 pet peeves (see chart) cited by professional recruiters. It sampled more than 2,500 recruiters from various industries throughout the United States and Canada.

Shook said the trend toward traditional résumés may be connected to a mindset shift recently described in The Wall Street Journal. Many firms that leaned toward business casual dress during the 1990s technology boom have, like investors, decided that a more conservative approach is best.

“I act differently in sweats than I do in a suit,” Shook said. “Everyone does. The traditional professional mindset is back and that translates to résumés, too. Don’t be too long winded or personal. Keep it to a page if at all possible and focus on abilities and accomplishments.”