Make no mistake about it, grammatical errors on your job-application materials are always bad news, especially if it's a common word you have misspelled.
"DUTIES: Assist clients with the implementation of efficient accountin systems."
We're acountin' on you to proofread your work.
"CURRENT JOB: Dogg cleaner"
That explains the paw print.
COVER LETTER: "I work as a camp counsler."
Evidently, there were no dictionaries at camp.
"OBJECTIVE: To move into the world of graphic desing."
We assume this error was not by design.
"JOB HISTORY: Grocery store catchier"
"Catchy" job title!
From accounting to zoology, every profession has its own unique lingo. To position yourself as an expert in your field, it's vital you correctly use industry-specific terms and acronyms in your resume and cover letter. The following finance professional incorrectly referenced the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, an important piece of corporate governance legislation: "ACCOUNTING SKILLS: Trained in Sarbanese & Oxley procedures."
This next candidate meant to write, "Root Cause Corrective Action."
"COURSES COMPLETED: Root Cause Corruptive Action."
You learned to be dishonest?
And be careful when describing your knowledge of common software. I've seen candidates misspell Microsoft Access ("Microsoft Assess"), PowerPoint ("PointPower") and Internet Explorer ("Irnet Explorer"), as well as QuarkXPress ("Cork Express").
Needless to say, prospective employers will doubt your proficiency with any program whose name you are unsure of.
COVER LETTER: "I'm a great details-oriented software developer."
You sure fooled us.
(Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International Inc., a specialized staffing firm, and author of 'Managing Your Career For Dummies' and 'Job Hunting For Dummies.' For more Resumania, please visit www.resumania.com.)
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