GETTING HIRED: One more time: First impressions make lasting impressions

Sun | Business

How often have I addressed the subject of "first impressions" in a job search, whether in a resume, a cover letter or on the phone?

Too often, I'm sure.

With that in mind, let me share the following resume and cover letter excerpts that originally appeared in the July 21, 1997, issue of Fortune magazine:

* "I demand a salary commiserate with my extensive experience."

* "Received a plague for Salesperson of the Year."

* "Reason for leaving last job: maturity leave."

* "Wholly responsible for two (2) failed financial institutions."

* "It's best for employers that I not work with people."

* "Let's meet, so you can ooh and aah over my experience."

* "You will want me to be Head Honcho in no time."

* "I was working for my mom until she decided to move."

* "Marital status: Single. Unmarried. Unengaged. Uninvolved. No commitments."

* "I am loyal to my employer at all cost. ... Please feel free to respond to my resume on my office voice mail."

* "As indicated, I have over five years of analyzing investments."

* "Instrumental in ruining entire operation for a Midwest chain store."


* "Marital status: often. Children: various."

* "The company made me a scapegoat, just like my three previous employers."

What sayings come to mind?

"Nothing lasts as long as your first impression."

Or how about: "You may not get a second chance to make a first impression."

It's all right to laugh at these mistakes. I did, too.

But then I remembered that real people made those mistakes - real people involved in real job searches.

Be careful with your first impressions.

And please understand that the spell check on your computer looks for the correct spelling of words, not for the correct word to be used in a sentence.

By the way, I kind of liked the one about the "oohs" and "aahs."

Marvin Walberg is a job search consultant in Birmingham, Ala.