In speaking with hiring people in my client organizations -- some for 10 years or more -- there seems to be a few key areas that stand out that are in common -- it seems everyone else is doing 3 or 4, so…:
• Focus on the position -- Try to keep it one page and take out anything that does not apply to the position. Customize to the position. Remember, the resume is your best shot at landing the "interview" where all the additional information can be said. In today's job market and economic situation, you may be competing with many other applicants. Your resume may get a 20 to 30 second "read" by the screener -- make it stand out by being focused on the position. Do not send in a one over the world "or other available position" resume. Stay focused.
• Quantify and Qualify -- When using skill set bullets, qualify them with quantitative and/or qualitative information -- e.g. under Skill Sets: "Strong management skills" -- qualify with a short phrase connected with a job position: "Supervised 5 technical writers who compiled and published 50 plus user manuals for consumer software and hardware products." (This gives the hiring person a more clear snapshot of the performance level and potential).
• Appearance and Content -- Messy, photocopied, misspelled or misused words, using contractions, "Dear Sir" salutations (call and get a name), no cover letter -- Proofread, proofread and proofread again! Make sure to not make the most common mistakes like "there" and "their…." Do not use "big" words without knowing the definition and use -- do not try to embellish too much -- they expect some though.
While something of a laundry list, these are basically three areas that I have compiled over the years and emphasize to those who ask.

I hope this helps and good luck in your search.

v/r Robyn

Lisa Boesen

Owner, DBA Lisa Boesen

Posted on March 1, 2011

Recommended by:
Steven Coyne,
Simeon Osho

I find the biggest challenges individuals have when modifying their own resume is 1) creating a summary that accurately reflects their strengths and expertise without sounding arrogant and boastful 2) assessing specific skills/competencies that are relevant to the position being pursued and 3) identifying accomplishments and results that are quantifiable and that have direct impact on organizational results. Laundry listing work history and job functions is generally easy - writing to reflect your impact and value to an organization can be the challenging part.

Liz Luya

Director and Executive Coach, Luya Associates

Posted on March 1, 2011

Recommended by:
Steven Coyne

Steven, Great question

From my experience with clients I find the challenges differ dependent on their individual circumstances. So for example:

- for people with multiple jobs the biggest challenge can be creating a resume that doesn't look as though they can't stick with one company, particularly for those with 15+ years' experience
- people with large gaps in their resume find it tricky to explain the gaps on paper
- generally for people with 15-20yr+ experience keeping a document to anything less than 3 pages, a significant challenge
- overall delivering a concise and compelling document focused on the jobs they are applying for (I would apply that to 90% of people I talk to)

I know you asked for the biggest, I had a few 'biggest' points!

Best
Liz
Liz Luya

Bernard McGovern

VP, Human Resources, Forest Laboratories, Inc.

Posted on March 1, 2011

Recommended by:
Steven Coyne

The quandry for the experienced candidate is how to capture the totality of one's career without creating a disqualifying situation by the reader at a desired company. It is not uncommon to place too much information in a quest to be all-encompassing, or open to various positions - and that presents too much data and being seen as over-qualified, too broad, or not specific enough for a recruiter to digest.
Striking the right balance is key, and a difficult hurdle for applicant, especially those in high credibility (full disclosure, i.e. HR, finance) positions.