5 reasons your résumé isn't attracting interviews

QUESTION: Mr Smith, I read your column regularly, as it provides useful insights into career advancement. It seems I have always been in the proverbial dead-end jobs. I'm really frustrated, and wonder if there is something I can do to find progress. I have attached a copy of my résumé and application. Would you point out to me why my resume is not attracting any interviews? Thanks in advance.

- Sandra Peterson

CAREERS: Thanks for reading the Gleaner Careers column. It's very encouraging that you find it helpful. I sense your frustration and feeling of helplessness about whether there is anything you can do to improve your work life. Let me assure you that, yes, there are things you can do to find progress.

Your frustration is real, and understandable. You don't have to give in to it, however. You can summon the spirit of faith, determination and resilience within yourself. In other words, adopt a more positive and optimistic mindset and attitude. You will succeed if you don't give up.

As requested, I've reviewed your résumé and application letter (see: glenfordsmithcareers.wordpress.com).

Shortcomings

I believe several deficiencies in your application documents could factor into your failure to get called for interviews. Here are five shortcomings to address urgently to increase their effectiveness.

1. Failure to apply for specific post: Your letter says "Re: Available Vacancy". Always apply only for a specific post which matches your interest, qualification, and career goals. Avoid the 'any job' syndrome.

2. Generic résumé: Your application and résumé are general; they're not customised to a specific company. Many people prepare one résumé and cover letter, then simply change the company name to reflect the various companies they target. Big mistake.

Recruiters respond to job seekers who show familiarity with their company. They are impressed by prospects who understand their company's goals and challenges, and present themselves as value creators in areas crucial to specific corporate goals.

3. Failure to follow a proper résumé format:

Your résumé needs to follow a proven structure, which allows for ease of quick reading. In general, it should follow this format: Personal/Career Objective; Key Achievements; Work History; Education; and Personal Details. Use more bullet points and less paragraphs; it makes the information more readable.

4. Application letter too long and lacks focus:

Your cover letter is too lengthy. It also lacks focus in highlighting the benefits you aim to bring to the target company. You've simply restated much of what is already on your résumé, in the letter; that's not the purpose of the cover letter. Rather, it should sell your greatest benefits, specifically, to the reader.

5. Making your application all about you:

This is the cardinal transgression in marketing yourself. Your documents are all focused on your great qualities and achievements, which are fine. But recruiters couldn't care less; they are concerned about making their business successful.

Hold this principle inviolable: Never ever make your job application about you; always make it about the other party's specific needs, problems and challenges, and how, specifically, you can help to solve these.

Glenford Smith is a motivational speaker and success strategist. He is the author of 'From Problems to Power' and co-author of 'Profile of Excellence'. Email glenfordsmith@yahoo.com.