Module 10: Getting a TESOL job
10.2.3 Avoid these common resume mistakes
Even the best candidates make the mistake of submitting a below average resume and then wonder why they don’t get a call back. Do your best to avoid these common resume mistakes.
Being too vague: This may take a little more work, but you should be adjusting your resume for each specific job you are applying to. Every job is different and has different requirements, so why are you handing the same resume to every potential employer? You should not be changing anything dramatically, but look closely at what the employer is looking for and adjust your wording so it addresses their needs.
Focusing on jobs instead of experience: Telling the employer that you worked as <blank> for <blank company> does not really tell them anything about who you are and what you are bringing to the table. What was your focus at the job? What did you accomplish? Why were you a great employee for your former employer? Find a way to highlight your strengths and accomplishments.
Length: The old rule that your resume has to fit as a single side of a sheet of paper has been thrown out the window. That does not mean, though, that you should turn in a dissertation. Studies show that employers give each resume about twenty-five seconds of attention, so you have to make sure that your resume is tight. It is acceptable, though, to have a two- or three-page resume but only if you have a lot to show. Do not have a third page on your resume just to tell the employer that your hobbies are sports and movies. Use the space you need, be concise, but do not worry about fitting it onto one sheet of paper.
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