What are the most common FM resume mistakes and how to avoid them?

1 Wrong format

One of the most common FM resume mistakes is using the wrong format. FM is a diverse and dynamic industry that requires different types of resumes depending on the role, the employer, and the project. For example, if you are applying for a technical FM position, you may need a functional resume that highlights your specific skills and qualifications. On the other hand, if you are applying for a managerial FM position, you may need a chronological resume that shows your career progression and achievements. Therefore, you should research the job requirements and tailor your resume format accordingly.

2 Too long or too short

Another common FM resume mistake is making your resume too long or too short. A resume that is too long can overwhelm the hiring manager and make them lose interest in your application. A resume that is too short can leave out important information and make you look unqualified or inexperienced. The ideal length of an FM resume is between one and two pages, depending on your level of experience and the complexity of the job. You should include only the most relevant and recent information that demonstrates your value and fit for the position.

3 Poor layout and design

A third common FM resume mistake is having a poor layout and design. An unorganized, cluttered, or hard-to-read resume can create a negative impression and decrease your chances of getting an interview. On the other hand, a well-designed, clear, and consistent resume can make you stand out and demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail. To create a good layout and design, use a simple and readable font such as Arial or Times New Roman; employ bullet points, headings, and white space to break up the text; use standard margins and alignment; avoid excessive colors, graphics, or images; and save it in a PDF format to prevent compatibility issues.

4 Spelling and grammar errors

A fourth common FM resume mistake is having spelling and grammar errors. This can make you look careless, unprofessional, or incompetent and can detract from your communication skills, accuracy, and credibility. To avoid making this mistake, proofread your resume multiple times, use a spell-checker and a grammar-checker tool, and ask someone else to review it. Additionally, be sure to avoid using jargon, slang, or abbreviations that may confuse or alienate the reader.

5 Lack of keywords and achievements

A fifth common FM resume mistake is the lack of keywords and achievements. Without them, you may appear generic, unqualified, or irrelevant. On the other hand, a resume that contains specific keywords and achievements can make you look competent, qualified, and relevant. To do this, research the job description and employer's website to identify the keywords and phrases they use to describe the role, skills, and expectations. Incorporate these into your resume, particularly in the summary, skills, and work history sections. Additionally, use quantifiable and measurable achievements to demonstrate your impact and results with numbers, percentages, or awards. To further emphasize your accomplishments, use action verbs and strong adjectives such as "improved," "increased," or "delivered."