Three Common Mistakes of Creative Resumes & How to Avoid Them

Let's face it: As journalists and media folks, we're immersed in the world of creativity. We march to the beat of a different drum so when it comes to a standard, chronological resume, that can be a bit bland. In the case of a creative resume, the folks at Brazen Careerist remind us it can show prospective employers there's a creative problem solver right in front of them. That said, a few major faux pas within the creative resume can be the ixnay on the objay. For starters, don't forget your industry. Let's say you're applying to become a top notch editor at a business publication. Maybe it's not the precise time to rock out to a creative CV. As for pursuing a graphic design position at a start-up website? By all means go for it! In the latter case, it makes complete sense. Your resume is a distinct reflection of your skills, experience and ultimately yourself. Leverage that resume to make it visually striking. Another major mistake is thinking creativity will mask sloppiness. As pointed out in the blog post, let's say you're jazzed about making a video resume. In the piece, Josh Tolan writes, "In fact, you’re so impressed with your own stroke of genius, you’ve put zero effort into the information about yourself and your experience you’re sharing with that manager. Spoiler alert: hiring managers and recruiters aren’t impressed merely because you’ve thought of something creative." Lastly, if your resume is rock star status that's cool and all, but if it lacks relevant information a hiring manager needs to evaluate your candidacy, it's game over. Be sure to include job titles and work experience. Sure, it's important to highlight your skills and accomplishments but keep them within context. He writes, "It’s important for employers to know not just how you’ve achieved something, but in what setting. Without proper context—and especially if you exclude dates entirely—employers might side-eye these resumes, wondering whether you’re hiding something."

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Three Common Mistakes of Creative Resumes & How to Avoid Them

Vicki Salemi

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Vicki Salemi