Rankling Resumes

By Barbara Kiviat

Yes, typos are easy to make, but the most frequent mistake executives commit on their resumes is being too wordy, according to a recent survey of global recruiters by Korn/Ferry International. Another oft cited blunder? A resume that's too short. So be careful on that tightrope. Two pages is the preferred length; then again, your resume is just "an ante into the game," says Caroline Nahas, a Korn/Ferry managing director. "Your interview and ability to match up your experience and personal qualities with the company is absolutely essential," she continues. And if you do make it to the offer table, try to keep your expectations in the post-Enron world. The compensation package is the No. 1 deal breaker. Here are a few other resume faux pas, and the percentage of recruiters who label each the "most common mistake":

Too wordy 28% Taking credit for team effort 25% Gaps in job experience 20% Too short 18% Typos 9%

Source: Korn/Ferry International