If you’ve been using some extra time lately to polish your resume or cover letter, here are five common errors that you should definitely avoid:
- “In regards to…” It’s fine if you want to give your regards to Broadway or to someone’s mom. You can also sign off a letter using “Regards…” Otherwise, the correct phrase is “in regard to…”
- Do NOT capitalize job titles unless they are being used as headings. If you complete a successful bid for president, senator, mayor, or other such position and become President Serrin, Senator Niekro, or Mayor Williams, then you may capitalize your title; otherwise, keep job titles lowercase. You are applying for the position of editor, accountant, attorney, and so on.
- Avoid the use of “impactful.” Although this word has been used sporadically for several decades, it’s not until recently that it became a “real” word; in fact, Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, published in 2020 and considered the standard for writing and editing, does not list it. The current online version does, however, contain the word. Since “impactful” is such a recent term and can lead some people to be annoyed by its use, refrain from using it and replace it with “meaningful,” “significant,” “impressive,” and the like.
- Do not use exclamation points in a professional document! Ever!
- Submitting your resume or cover letter without having someone else proofread it is a major mistake. And just because your Aunt Sophia has a job does not mean she is qualified to edit your job application papers. Avoid the embarrassment—and potential rejection—by hiring a professional for just a few dollars. You won’t regret it!