ResumesResumes
InterviewsInterviews
Cover LettersCover Letters
Job Seeker TipsJob Seeker Tips
Beginner BasicsBeginner Basics
In the WorkplaceIn the Workplace
Work/LifeWork/Life
Build Your
Resume With
Our Easy Wizard
Get A
Professionally
Written
Resume
Get A
Professionally
Written Cover
Letter
Home > Blog: Resumes > Too Many Resume Rules to Remember? Relax.

Too Many Resume Rules to Remember? Relax.

If you’re a job seeker, you’ve probably read eleventy-billion pieces of advice about what you MUST and MUST NOT do in your resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

How can you possibly remember all the rules? You know what? Relax.

No one can remember ALL the rules, and not every rule applies in every situation, anyway. So take in all the advice you can stand, use what works for you, and ignore the rest.

And if you’re still nervous, ponder these truths, which I have learned along my own checkered career path. In no particular order:

  1. The majority of people have lousy resumes, so even a not-quite-perfect one can stand out.
  2. A well-written cover letter can get you a job despite a weak resume, and a strong resume can get you a job despite a wimpy cover letter.
  3. Life happens to hiring managers, too. They’re human. They understand things like gaps in a resume or time off for family responsibilities.
  4. The most likable candidate will get the job, all things being reasonably equal. So be nice.
  5. It’s nerve wracking being the interviewer, not just the interviewee. If you come prepared and make it easy for your interviewers, they'll like you. (See #4)
  6. Almost everyone has been fired or laid off at least once. You're not the only one.
  7. Most people don’t send thank-you notes after an interview, so you should. It's an easy way to differentiate yourself.
  8. One company’s rejected candidate (i.e., you) is another company’s dream come true. Keep going.
  9. Hardly anybody stays unemployed forever.
Ready To Jump Start Your Job Search?
Looking for Help with Your Job Search?
Pongo has been helping Job Seekers for over 10 years. If you think our articles are great, try our Resume Builder, Letter Builder and Exclusive Interview Strategy Videos! Our easy-to-use tools and expert advice have helped over 70% of our Members get the job they want! Learn More »
Like what you see?
Join over 4.6 million Pongo Members — and let us help you land your dream job.
Pongo Raves
Student Lands Job in Hospitality Industry
Anthony was unemployed and living at home. Watch as he describes how Pongo helped him improve his resume, letters and interview techniques to land the perfect job.
Learn More About Pongo
More Success Stories