Red flags on your resume

Competition in the executive jobs sector is always cut-throat. Although it is composed of an elite group of professionals, there is only so much room for everybody. It seems that the most coveted positions are always filled. So to get ahead, you do your best in creating the best resume any employer has ever seen. However, there are items there that are possible red lights, posing as threats that may stop companies from even setting an appointment with you. If you ever heard the advice that says you should not explain every detail in your resume and cover letter, that was not entirely true. Turn these red flags into green go signals and get to your dream executive job in no time.  

Short stints

Your executive job history is something that you should not leave out. In fact, you have to write all your previous positions and be truthful at it. A short period of time spent in a company is a red flag, and may lead the employer to doubting your loyalty and dependability. Include a few notes about it in your cover letter or in your resume to let them know what went on.

Relocations

Just like job-hopping, moving from one place to another may not be a plus point. If you have been relocating more often than normal, indicate the reason/s. It may be because of family matters, but you do not have to zoom in all the details. Just fill the employer in on the reasons of the frequent moves.  

Big gaps

In the same way that short stints in different job posts are red flags, so are big gaps. If your gaps consist of a few months, eliminate them by specifying the longevity of the positions that you held. This would somehow remove the focus on the gaps. However, if you feel that the gaps may become a factor for you not to be considered for a position, put in explanations for each. Just do not label the gaps as months of work, such as “Sabbatical (June 2010 to December 2010)” because that would only make the stain more obvious.

Steps down

As an executive, the thing you should have achieved is to go up the career ladder. However, that scenario is almost utopia, something that rarely happens. After all, career advancement does not necessarily mean promotion. You may have moved sideways or even downwards. You may have shifted from a top banking career to being the manager of a family-owned business. Usually, the company you worked for would suffice as an explanation for the demotion. However, it is something that you should still discuss and explain to the employer.

Contractual jobs

Contract-based projects may be beneficial to your job application, but it may also make employers uncomfortable. Because although your experience may indicate your being proactive and resourceful, it can also be a sign of disloyalty and lack of focus on your main job.

Show your resume to a peer and ask them to identify red flags. From there, place concise explanations and reiterate them on the interview itself.