Resumes Trash bound can be fixed with these little changes

You have sent your résumé out and you're just not getting any responses.  Family and friends have checked it over and given it a green light.  It's been proofread, double checked.  What's going on?  It might be something as easy to change as your file name, or your email address.  Below are 7 things to check on your resume before you send it out, starting with the most important "Are you qualified for the position?".

1. Are you qualified for the positions you are applying for?  This is definitely where a case of quality over quantity is important.  HR/Recruiters deal with 100's of resumes every day.  If you are applying for a specific position then make sure you are qualified.  If a job has been advertised then HR/Recruiters are focused on that job, they don't have time to waste on resumes that don't fit, so click goes the delete button.  Feel free to send a general email over saying "I am a Java Programmer and would be interested in any positions you might have available".   This lets them know that you are available and would like to meet.  There is a chance this will get moved over to their "To be Looked at" folder over the trash folder.


2. Your file name can tell a lot about your job searching.  Keep it to just your name.  Don't categorize it with the position or industry, ie. John Doe-ba or John Doe-pm or John Doe-ehealth.   This is a red flag to HR that you have been applying for a number of positions.


3. Is your email address professional.  Being known as "thekegger@....com" is great for your friends but won't get replies from HR.


4. Does your résumé match your LinkedIn profile.  In this day and age most recruiters will have a look at your online CV.  Dates, companies and positions should match up


5. Is there a gap in your dates, then fill it in.  "Went back to school, maternity leave, relocated to Canada" are a couple of examples.  


6. If you put in your hobbies make sure they won't offend anyone or set off red flags.  Saying that you play party poker every night when you get home from work probably won't sit well with the HR department of an investment company or bank.  Physical activities like running, team sports or music/art interests are always popular.  But don't lie.  


7. Social media.  Be careful what sites you give access to.  If you are going to follow a company on twitter or Facebook then keep your site professional.  And watch your language. 

It's hard getting your foot in the door.  Don't get tossed because of a couple of little blunders.  And remember there's nothing better than a "referral" to help you crack that door open a little.

Good Luck Job Hunting !!