Attention Resume Writers

By EngineerSalary.com Staff, September 29, 2009

A Poor Resume is Costly
A September 2009 review of over 1400 Human Resource Managers revealed that a surprising number of open Engineering and Technical Management positions remain unfilled.

While it's no surprise in this economy that there are a tremendous number of job applicants, it is a surprise that so many employers claim very few candidates have the qualifications they seek.

It was further revealed that a vast number of potentially qualified candidates are routinely disqualified because their resumes lack substantial or comprehendible content. And in many cases, resumes are screened down to consideration for positions that are probably lesser than the candidate may otherwise be qualified. Several managers commented that they don't have the time to 'read between the lines', or make assumptions on whether candidates have the level of skills required.

Engineering resumes were cited as particularly challenging to screen. With the multitude of technologies and terminology unique to the profession, many screeners find the process overwhelming. In many cases, resumes are filled with ambiguous acronyms that pertain only to a specific company or industry niche. Other resumes are so vague that they communicate very little.

One respondent commented: "Many candidates seem to take their resume for granted. They put more thought and effort into preparing a company report".

To the reader, the resume is a summary view of who the candidate is – and how the candidate perceives them self. Above all, it reveals their communication skills. It portrays their thought process and ability to convey complex concepts into meaningful and comprehendible language.

In conclusion, it appears that many potentially qualified candidates are being rejected because their resumes do not adequately convey their abilities.

Make your resume work for you

Be sure your resume is well organized, concise, and contains solid and relevant material. Resumes that are too brief and say little are immediately disregarded. Those that are too long and verbose put the reader to sleep. Do NOT use a functional format – this is viewed as a red flag. Pay close attention to how you display dates of employment and education credentials – these items are always scrutinized, and can be an immediate disqualifier. Most importantly, make sure it is readily comprehendible.

In a volatile job market, it's critical to maintain a well-prepared resume so that you can respond quickly to a changing environment – whether you need to make a move, or want to capitalize on a new opportunity that presents itself.

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For more than 15 years, our affiliated Certified Professional Resume Writers have helped thousands of Engineering and Technical Professionals land their next interview.

Today's job market demands hard-hitting resumes that sell. Your resume is your first impression, and your ticket past the gatekeeper – and a powerful one can take you to the front of the line. Does yours showcase your skills as best it can?

Remember, the interview lands you the job, but the resume lands you the interview.

Don't chance your career to a mediocre resume. Make sure yours is worthy of your talents.

Contact our experts – and take the first step towards your next success.