Resume/Application Review Tips

The following tips can help you better organize and select candidates for further screening and interviewing:

• Sort applicants by job for which they are applying. Save miscellaneous ones for last.
• Review the job description(s) for the position(s) you are attempting to fill. Note minimum requirements needed and refer to them often as you review resumes/applications.
• Ignore the applicant's name, address or personal information to limit subconscious biases.
• Attempt to ignore superficial issues such as style and typographical errors in favor of content, unless such issues are directly related to the position for which an individual is applying. Such scrutiny may unintentionally rule out members of protected classes.
• Check work experience for applicability to the position for which an individual is applying, the length of time in each position, promotions or awards received and reason for leaving each position.
• Note gaps in employment but do not assume they were caused by negative reasons.
• Check educational background for qualifications necessary to successful job performance.
• Note special skills that are desired but not required (e.g., computer software, bilingual).
• Note on a separate piece of paper any pertinent questions that arise when reviewing the resume/application and ask those during a telephone screen.
• Divide resumes into three groups: 1) those that closely match job requirements and for which a telephone screen is appropriate; 2) those that meet some requirements and may be considered secondarily; and 3) those that do not meet the requirements at all.
• If necessary, screen the top group again to further narrow down the candidates. On average, about 10 resumes per open position should be sufficient to start.