Avoid Resume Mistakes That Cost Quantity Surveyor Interviews

As a Quantity Surveyor in Singapore, your resume is your first impression on potential employers. Many candidates unknowingly make mistakes that can significantly reduce their chances of landing an interview. It's crucial to ensure your resume accurately reflects your qualifications and expertise. A thorough review of your resume could help you identify and eliminate these issues, so consider checking it early to avoid repeated rejections.

Mistake #1 – Poor Formatting

Why this hurts

Recruiters are turned off by cluttered resumes. Poor formatting can hide crucial information and create a negative impression.

Example

• Bad: Multiple font styles and sizes, inconsistent bullet points.
• Better: Uniform font style, size, and consistent formatting throughout.

How to fix

• Use a single professional font and consistent formatting for headings and bullet points.

Mistake #2 – Vague Job Descriptions

Why this hurts

Vague descriptions fail to communicate your achievements and skills. Recruiters need specifics to gauge your capabilities.

Example

• Bad: Managed projects.
• Better: Managed $5 million construction project, delivering on time and under budget.

How to fix

• Use quantifiable achievements and specific examples to illustrate your contributions.

Mistake #3 – Lack of Keywords

Why this hurts

ATS software scans for keywords related to the job description. Omitting relevant keywords can lead to automatic rejections.

Example

• Bad: “Experience in cost estimation.”
• Better: “Expert in cost estimation, value engineering, and contract administration.”

How to fix

• Incorporate keywords from the job posting into your resume naturally.

Mistake #4 – Ignoring Local Standards

Why this hurts

Not adhering to local resume standards can make your application seem out of touch. Recruiters expect familiarity with local practices.

Example

• Bad: Using a CV format common in Europe.
• Better: A concise resume tailored to Singaporean norms.

How to fix

• Research and follow local resume formats that appeal to Singaporean recruiters.

Mistake #5 – Inconsistent Experience Framing

Why this hurts

Inconsistent framing can make your career progression unclear. Recruiters prefer a logical flow in your work history.

Example

• Bad: Listing jobs without dates or order.
• Better: Chronologically, with clear dates and job titles.

How to fix

• Ensure your work history is listed in reverse chronological order with clear job titles and employment dates.

Mistake #6 – Overloading with Technical Jargon

Why this hurts

While technical terms are important, overloading your resume with jargon can alienate non-technical recruiters.

Example

• Bad: “Utilized BIM, CAD, and other advanced software.”
• Better: “Utilized Building Information Modelling (BIM) for project management.”

How to fix

• Use plain language and explain technical terms when necessary.

Mistake #7 – Ignoring Soft Skills

Why this hurts

Soft skills are essential in Quantity Surveying. Ignoring them can make your resume seem one-dimensional.

Example

• Bad: “Good at teamwork.”
• Better: “Led a team of five in a complex project, enhancing collaboration and communication.”

How to fix

• Include examples of how you’ve demonstrated soft skills in your work.

Mistake #8 – Failing to Tailor for Each Application

Why this hurts

Generic resumes often fail to impress. Tailoring your resume shows genuine interest and attention to detail.

Example

• Bad: Sending the same resume to multiple employers.
• Better: Customizing your resume for each job application.

How to fix

• Adjust your resume to highlight the most relevant experiences and skills for each position.

Entry-Level

Entry-level Quantity Surveyors often make the mistake of omitting relevant internships or project work. Highlight any practical experience gained during education or internships. Avoid generic descriptions and focus on specific tasks undertaken.

Mid-Level

Mid-level professionals sometimes fail to showcase leadership roles or project management skills. Ensure you detail your experience in leading teams or managing budgets effectively to signal your readiness for senior roles.

Senior / Lead

Senior candidates may overlook the importance of recent trends in Quantity Surveying. It’s vital to incorporate knowledge of current industry practices and technologies to demonstrate ongoing professional development.

• Use a clean and professional format.
• Incorporate job-specific keywords.
• Quantify achievements where possible.
• Ensure consistency in formatting and style.
• Highlight relevant soft skills.
• Tailor your resume for each application.
• Eliminate jargon unless clearly explained.
• Include all relevant experience, including internships.
• Check for ATS compatibility.
• Proofread for grammatical errors and typos.