Job searches have changed dramatically in the last 10 years, and the resume an employer expects to see from a qualified candidate has evolved over time. Executive job candidates are doing video resumes along with traditional resumes, and they’re branding themselves online through individual websites, Linked In and social media accounts. Regardless of how an employer finds you, the recruiter will be watching for these “6 Resume Red Flags for the Modern Age,” as explained by Kazim Ladimeji on Recruiter.com.
1. Frequent job changes. We don’t expect to hold the same position for life as our parents have done, but that doesn’t mean it is OK to job hop. It may be viewed as instability by a recruiter or human resources manager, particularly when hiring for an executive level position. If you’ve held a number of positions for less than two years each, that might send up a red flag, so be prepared to explain why.
2. Text-heavy resume. An articulate, well-organized CEO or CFO candidate understands that a bulleted resume with headings ad subheadings is easier to follow than one that is largely narrative. Wordy resumes may cause a recruiter to be cautious because it creates the perception – right or wrong – that someone doesn’t have a lot of achievements or education to highlight.
3. Lack of supporting data. When recruiting for a high level position in a hospital or surgery center, healthcare recruiters want to see supporting data to show what you’ve achieved in other positions whether it is the number of people you managed, an increase in revenue, decline in turnover or other relevant figures. In other words, show don’t tell what you can achieve.
4. Vagueness. It is important to be specific in your resume. Don’t dance around objectives and responsibilities in generic terms. Be specific – explain that you were responsible for monthly budgeting and accountability, that you managed projects X and Y, etc.
5. Multiple Layoffs. In a volatile economy, the occasional layoff is inevitable. Many of us have been through it. But if you’ve been laid off multiple times, a prospective employer may wonder. Explain this in your cover letter, so that your health care recruiter doesn’t have to guess the circumstances.
6. Failure to explain. If you have these or other red flags in your career or education history, address them head on by explaining them in your cover letter.
We’ll continue to explore job searching topics and techniques, so check back often for more information like this!