Have You Made the #1 Mistake on Your Leadership Resume

Have You Made the #1 Mistake on Your Leadership Resume Are you still giving a résumé presentation that equates to wearing your Saturday jeans to an interview? This is what happens when you ignore the actual presentation and focus exclusively on the content. Most people don’t realize that choosing that canned Microsoft Word template for their résumés can lay a foundation for less-than-stellar results. Its even worse if you just type freeform into a blank document with a few headings here and there. Now, opening a new document and choosing a built-in template might work fine if you’re sending a quick email message, but it certainly isn’t a good way to sell your key competencies if you’re an aspiring leader ready to take on the world and boost your salary in the process. Now you might ask: what’s wrong with using that Word template? Well, first of all, it’s made for EVERYONE to use. Can all professionals relate to your level of achievement? I doubt it. In addition, the font allows for only minimal wording to be used, with very short lines. Now, I don’t know about you, but as a professional resume writer, I find it extremely hard to get critical information across in seven-word sentences. Third of all, the template doesn’t convey status or prestigeâ€"the very components that drive careers at the upper echelon. So, the next time you’re in the midst of a job search, give your résumé style the same attention that you would for any business presentationusing a professional design that speaks to your status, credibility, and level of achievement.