How to Read a Resume to Avoid Getting Fooled – A Guide for Investors and Bosses Recruiting in Malaysia

When you’re planning to recruit in Malaysia, it’s crucial to approach the hiring process strategically. As a hiring manager with years of experience in the digital solutions industry, I understand the importance of effectively assessing resumes to identify the right candidates. Today, I want to share some essential tips on how to read a resume to avoid getting fooled, particularly in the Malaysian context.

1. Assessing First Impressions

The layout, design, and formatting of a resume say a lot about a candidate’s professionalism. A clean, well-organized, and visually appealing resume often indicates meticulousness and a good eye for detail – key qualities for any role.

2. Verifying Relevance

Always look for skills and experience relevant to the job at hand. If you are hiring for a tech-based role, check for the candidate’s proficiency in coding languages, familiarity with design tools, or experience with content management systems.

3. Ensuring Consistency

Inconsistencies in a resume can be a sign of carelessness. Check for uniformity in the font, format, and language used. Even minor errors can be telltale signs of a lack of attention to detail.

4. Quantifying Achievements

Vague statements can be misleading. Instead, look for specific, quantifiable achievements. For instance, “Increased website traffic by 30%” is a more valuable claim than “Improved website traffic.”

5. Spotting Overused Buzzwords

Some candidates use industry jargon or buzzwords without having the necessary knowledge or experience. Make sure the candidate provides concrete examples that back up the terms they use.

6. Investigating Employment Gaps

While employment gaps are not inherently negative, they do warrant a closer look. If the candidate has multiple short-term roles or unexplained employment gaps, it could indicate instability.

7. Looking for Customization

A generic resume lacks the personal touch. Look for signs that the applicant has taken the time to understand your company and tailor their application accordingly.

8. Checking References

References can provide valuable insights into a candidate’s work ethic and capabilities. Even if they are not provided upfront, it’s standard to ask for them later in the hiring process.

9. Testing Skills

Consider implementing skills tests or practical assignments to verify a candidate’s capabilities. This step can be particularly beneficial for roles that require a specific skill set.

10. Trust, But Verify

If a claim on a resume seems too good to be true, take the time to verify it. For example, if a candidate claims to have led a major project, it’s worth a quick online search or a phone call to confirm.

11. Confirming Educational Credentials

Ensure the educational qualifications listed are from legitimate institutions. In Malaysia, degrees from accredited universities carry more weight, so be cautious about unrecognized or fraudulent qualifications.

12. Assessing Cultural Fit

While this might not be entirely apparent from a resume, look for insights into the applicant’s interests and personality. Will they thrive in a traditional or a more relaxed work environment? Do they align with your company’s values?

A resume is a valuable tool, but it’s just one part of a comprehensive hiring process. In-person interviews, skills tests, and reference checks will provide a more holistic view of a candidate’s suitability. Let’s empower our businesses by making informed, strategic recruitment decisions.

In Conclusion

For bosses, reading a resume should be a thorough and discerning process. The cost of a bad hire goes beyond finances; it can impact team dynamics, productivity, and company culture. By employing a strategic approach and trusting your instincts, you can ensure that the person behind the resume is as impressive as the document itself.