Signs That Your Resume is Raising Red Flags for Hiring Managers

In every job application pool is likely to be one or more candidates who are considered to be “red flags.” These candidates provoke either an irritated reaction or one that makes the hiring manager think twice about moving them further in the application process.

If you want to hinder your chances of being employed then being a red flag candidate is the way to go. However, if you want to make sure you at least get past the beginning stages of the process, it’s best to avoid being this type of candidate at all costs. How could you get this done? Here are a few ideas“

Be Sure to Add Critical Personal Information

Certain personal details are necessary for hiring managers to initiate contact with you and are vital to your resume. These details include your home address, telephone number and email address. If you don’t add an address and some other tangible way for others to contact you, not only will communication be more difficult, but you will raise the red flag for employers because they’ll suddenly wonder how legit an applicant you really are.

Now keep in mind that personal details you need to add don’t include your photo, weight or height details, race or nationality, or any information that could help a hiring manager develop an unnecessary bias. But if you don’t add the necessary details noted above then employers will likely feel very apprehensive about considering you as an employee.

Properly Address Big Gaps in Employment History

Another red flag for some hiring managers is seeing big gaps in employment. While it’s pretty common to be in between jobs for up to three months (and even more since the recession), if an employer sees two-year gaps without an explanation as to why the gaps were so long (raising young children, volunteering overseas) then you may have something to worry about.

If you’ve been in a position where you had one or more major gaps in your employment then it’s good to structure your resume in a way that you can fill in those gaps. You could create a volunteering section of your resume that adds the dates that need to be filled in. Or you could try a functional resume that doesn’t focus as much on dates as the chronological. However, if you choose the functional resume, it’s good to make sure you add plenty of details so that it doesn’t look as though you’re trying to hide anything from prospective employers.

Don’t Show Disregard for Clearly-Listed Qualification Requirements

If you’re applying for a position that requires 7-10 years of experience at a senior level and you’re an entry-level candidate with one year on the job, employers will see as more than a red flag, they’re going to see you as trash can worthy. So before you apply for a position, it’s pertinent that you spend time fine-tooth combing the requirements so that you don’t raise red flags, or worse, get your resume tossed in the trash.

Reviewing your resume should be an ongoing process as you move through your career. At this stage, it’s good to make sure yours isn’t raising any red flags so that you’re chances of being hired increase.