Screening and evaluating resumes can be time-consuming, since resumes can vary widely in formatting and content. There are certain steps you can take to make this process easier and help you choose an effective shortlist of candidates.
Using the job description and list of qualifications
When screening resumes, you'll want to have your job description and a list of qualifications that candidates must have in front of you. As you look through the resumes, this will help you to eliminate candidates whose resumes do not show these qualifications. The more resumes you’ve received for a job, the more exacting your list of qualifications can be.
Overall neatness and consistency
For each resume, look for overall neatness, lack of typos, and consistent formatting. This can show attention to detail and a certain level of professionalism, traits that you want your employees to possess. Remember to take note of the trends and timing in work, educational and volunteer experiences of your applicants. There should be consistency in their resume. Any discrepancies or gaps between experiences should definately be inquired into further.
Chronological and functional resumes
Resumes generally fall into two categories: the "chronological" resume and the "functional" resume. The chronological resume lists past jobs in order of dates, and the functional resume lists important functions and achievements that the candidate has accomplished but does not connect them to the jobs listed on their resume. It can be harder for you to identify gaps in employment and identify the true nature and scope of the candidate's experience with a functional resume. Be sure that any gaps in work history are identified and are not an issue.
Look for accomplishments
Also important is to look for resumes that show accomplishments instead of responsibilities. Accomplishments show what was actually achieved by the candidate, such as "increased company sales by 50%." Responsibilities show what was done on the job, such as “prepared budgets and project plans.” Resumes that emphasize accomplishments can show that the person is an achiever and understands how day-to-day tasks affect the bottom line.
Detecting a career path
When reviewing the resume, look for signs of the applicant’s career path. Promotions and advancement show a good focus and a certain stability. For people starting out in the careers, look for extracurricular activities and the wording they use to explain their job positions.
Also, just because a resume has a few gaps may not mean that the person wouldn’t be a good candidate. Keep the list of qualifications you are looking for in mind, and see how each resume demonstrates these skill as you narrow your search for a shortlist of candidates.
