Misusing a word is a huge disappointment on a résumé. Mistakes happen, but you can limit them by thoroughly proofreading and doing a little research. Studies show that more than 60% of hiring managers have disqualified a candidate based solely on résumé errors.
Spellcheck is a great tool for ensuring words are spelled properly, but not for ensuring the RIGHT word has been used.
If a word is spelled correctly but misused, or a typo creates a real word, spellcheck will often not catch the error. So, if you are updating your résumé or sending it out, make sure you have used your words properly. While there are many errors I see on résumés, below are some of the most common.
Most commonly misused words on résumés.
Accept/Except
Advise/Advice
Affect/Effect
Capital/Capitol
Complement/Compliment
From/Form
Further/Farther
Here/Hear
Illicit/Elicit
Insure/Ensure/Assure
It’s/Its
Manger/Manager
Personal/Personnel
Principal/Principle
Prospective/Perspective
There/They’re/Their
Your/You’re
Who’s/Whose
There are tons of resources available online to help you determine which words are appropriate, such as Grammarly and Merriam-Webster. Take advantage of these resources and invest some time into your résumé. Don’t let misused words in your résumé cost you a job.
*** Oh, and don’t forget to check your other documents. Cover letters and thank you emails frequently have the same errors.
Happy job hunting!
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