If you’re like me, you’ve spent hours editing and revising your resume to make it the perfect one-page summary of your skills and experience. Of course, lying on a resume is a huge no-no, but we’ve all embellished our experiences to sound as professional as possible. Here’s what your resume would say if it was brutally honest.
What it says:
Objective: I am seeking employment that will enable me to use my strong organizational skills, educational background, and ability to work well with others toward the success of an organization.
What you mean:
I just had to buy textbooks and now I’m poor. I don’t care if this job is answering the phones or going on coffee runs as long as I’m getting paid.
What it says:
Education: University of Wisconsin-Madison, 3.4 GPA, involved in 14 clubs
What you mean:
I go to club meetings for the free pizza. I have no idea what I want to major in and my GPA may or may not be rounded up.
What it says:
Skills: Social media marketing
What you mean:
I spend more time than I’m willing to admit on Instagram. I know exactly which filters complement my coloring and which ones wash me out. My friends come to me for caption ideas, and I can always think of something super punny.
Work Experience: Nanny at the Smith household. Responsibilities included engaging children in playtime, preparing meals, and providing homework help.
What you mean:
I got paid to eat macaroni and cheese and play hide and go seek all summer. Best. Job. Ever.
Entry-level experience can sometimes feel unimpressive, but there’s nothing some creative wording can’t fix. A resume is an employer’s first impression of you and your ticket to getting an interview, so make sure yours is updated and accurate, but never too honest.