By MAX MESSMER
Scripps Howard News Service
"SALARY REQUIREMENTS: I'm looking for something with reasonable py (cq)."
It would "pay" to proofread your resume.
One mistake could be all it takes. An employer who has been inundated with applications doesn't need much of an excuse to remove you from contention. Keep yourself in the running by meticulously proofreading your resume for spelling and grammatical errors. Beyond running spell-check, read your document aloud slowly so you can focus on each word. Ask a business colleague to double-check your work. These job seekers were tripped up by typos:
"INTERESTS AND ACTIVITIES: I am very interested in computers. I have been working with commuters for a long time."RESUME: "I have good refrances to back me up.""JOB HISTORY: Teaching assestant."Uh-oh.
This next applicant's cover letter looked impressive until we got to the last sentence:
"Thanks again and have a grat day!"A not-so-great conclusion.
Finally, remember that editing involves more than just cleaning up spelling errors. Focus on clarity by using proper punctuation and cutting out unnecessary words - something this long-winded applicant failed to do:
"OBJECTIVE: I am currently seeking a full-time position as a personal and/or office assistant in a development-oriented company which will allow me to use my talents and strengths and gifts to fill the needs of its members and clients and customers and to use my proven skills and ambition in a career with potential for long-term professional advancement."
You've left us breathless.
(For more Resumania, visit www.resumania.com. Keep the Resumania coming. Send examples to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International, 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif., 94025, or fax to 650-234-6998. Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, a specialized staffing firm, and author of "Managing Your Career For Dummies" and "Job Hunting For Dummies." His most recent book is "Human Resources Kit For Dummies," second edition.)
