As one of the leading employment agencies in Rancho Cordova, Pacific Staffing can tell you that hiring managers get dozens – or even hundreds – of resumes for every job opening. As a result, when you’re applying for a job, you only have a few seconds to make a great impression. And if you’re not putting your best foot forward, then your resume will wind up in the trash.

So what mistakes could you be making?

One of the ways we see job candidates fumble is when they submit a ‘retro’ resume – one that makes them appear old, outdated, or out of sync with today’s modern job candidate.

How can you tell if you have a retro resume? Here are some signs to look out for:

Sign #1: Listing a fax number.

If you want to look like a candidate that just stepped out of the 1980s, include a fax number and multiple phone numbers. If, however, you want to appear like a candidate from this century, include your email, along with one phone number.

Sign #2: Providing the year you graduated from college.

If you’re just out of college, it’s ok to include your graduation dates. However, if you have 20 years of experience, don’t date yourself – get rid of those college graduation years. Simply include your alma mater’s name, location, and the degree you earned.

Sign #3: Stating that you’re computer literate.

Stating that you’re “computer literate and well-versed in MS Word” will do absolutely nothing to set you apart from the sea of other candidates who are also “computer literate and well-versed in MS Word.” So skip touting commonplace and expected skills; only include skills that are unique, specialized, or involve the latest technology.

Sign #4: Not including keywords.

In today’s tech driven world, many hiring managers don’t even see a resume until it’s been scanned by a software system designed to filter out bad candidates. So even if you’re right for the position, you could wind up in the recycling bin if you’re not using keywords and phrases from the job posting.

Sign #5: Listing jobs from high school.

Hiring managers don’t care about every job you’ve ever held. They care about those that are relevant to the job opening they have. So don’t list early jobs that have nothing to do with your career today. A good rule of thumb is not to go back more than 15 – 20 years, unless there’s an important accomplishment to promote.

Need More Help Finding Your Next Great Job?

Give Pacific Staffing a call. As one of the leading employment agencies in Rancho Cordova, we’ll take the time to learn about your career goals, work environment preferences, interests, and aspirations. It’s how we’re able to go to work, finding opportunities that are a terrific showcase for your unique talents and personalities. Contact us today or search our Rancho Cordova jobs now.