Resume Red Flags that are of lesser importance

It is always good to bring in good candidates, but as hiring managers, we should also be able to set realistic expectations. There will never be the most ideal candidate to hire, and even if they are – they will most likely be the most expensive to hire.

There are many reasons why we did not shortlist candidates, but the labor market is getting tighter and there are some reasons why we should be more receptive to them

RETRENCHMENT

Retrenchment happens because there is redundancy of headcount, but it need not be linked to ability or work ethics. During recession, it is common that there are over supply of labour and companies must drastically cut cost by reducing their manpower. It does not mean that only the non-performing is let go. To have greater assurance, you could conduct a reference check with the previous employer.

EMPLOYMENT GAPS

It is common to ask questions when one takes on a long break before commencing the next employment. Just because a person took a long time to find a job, does not represent that the interviewee is not qualified. This is especially so when people are redefining priorities in life and are considering travelling plans with them as well.

EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

The move is now towards a knowledge-based economy and hiring is less emphasis on educational certificates. Skills can be taught, but what is more important is the person’s attitude and willingness to learn. You can still see people in management positions doing well despite not having a graduate from one of the prestigious university.

SHORT EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

It is still good to check with someone who have short employment history and to understand the validity of the reasons of leaving. Some people find it difficult to get a full-time role, so undertake different contracts in different companies. It is always good to ask before you conclude.

Things to take note before sending your Resume

When looking for a position, sending of resume is usually the first thing to let an agency or company notice you. There are some points that candidates often overlooked when sending their resumes which leads them to not being selected in the first round of any interview.

Email Address

Having an informal email address gives the HR an impression of how casual you are, and that you might not be taking the position seriously. So, before you send a formal email of your resume to any HR, do take note of the email address that you would be sending your resume from.

Subject Title

HR personnel is usually overwhelmed with candidates sending them emails of their resumes and do not have time to go through each and every one. Naming your subject title with an appropriate name would help have time for the HR understand the purpose of your email.

Forward Emails

Forwarding emails will make the HR personnel wonder if you are busy that you don't have the time to erase 3 letters from the subject "Fwd:". It also shows the HR that you are applying for various companies at the same time.

Send the Updated Resumes

There are many candidates that send their resume over without updating it to the latest version. Indicating that the resume is up-to-date will help HR understand better about your past experiences and help you look for a suitable position more effectively.

Do a brief introduction of yourself in the email body, a 3-4-line brief description will do. Let the HR personnel know that you are sincere by texting the HR after sending the resume and do a follow up after a few days.

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