Resume Genius survey shares what recruiters want in candidates

Rudeness and AI resumes: Recruiters share what disqualifies candidates from getting hired

April 1, 2024 1:10 PM

Woman and man sitting across desk having conversation

Resume rules, interview etiquette and lying to job candidates: Hiring managers are coming clean about what they're looking for — and how far they're willing to stretch the truth about their own companies — when filling open roles.

Resume Genius's new survey of 625 hiring managers outlines what can set job seekers apart, or put them on the cut list. When managers read a resume, 42% percent said a strong introduction is one of the most important parts. Gen Z hiring managers value the hobbies and interests section, with more than a third ranking it above professional experience. Along with personal details, soft skills are strongly valued by more than half and should be highlighted both on a resume and in an interview.

"Ultimately, everyone wants to work with people they like," says Eva Chan, a career expert at Resume Genius. "Recruitment and hiring are also expensive endeavors for organizations, and the costs escalate when newly hired individuals exit prematurely due to a mismatch with the company culture or team. That's why understanding a candidate's soft skills is key to seeing how well they'll fit within a team and contribute to the organization's culture and success."

When it comes to what makes hiring managers cringe, AI-generated content on a resume is a no-go for 53%, and numerous job changes make half hesitant to proceed. Addressing candidates' interview behavior, 63% said lying is a deal-breaker and 73% say rude behavior can take a person out of the running.

"In today's world, being trustworthy is more important than ever," says Chan. "Widespread access to information via the Internet and social media has given hiring managers powerful tools to vet candidates thoroughly, so making any discrepancy or embellishment in your application is a potential red flag."

Ironically, 75% of hiring managers admitted to lying to job candidates to fulfill their hiring needs. Another 80% said they have ignored candidates after the first interaction, citing a high number of applicants and indecision. Job seekers should keep in mind that they too should use keen judgment when it comes to observed behavior by a potential employer.

Use the following survey feedback to put together the perfect resume, know what to expect from an upcoming interview and eventually secure a good employer match.

Build the right resume

The survey found that 57% of hiring managers spend between one and three minutes looking at a resume, so it needs to stand out. Along with a strong introduction and list of hobbies and interests, candidates should know that 65% of managers will prioritize relevant skills — analytical thinking and customer service are currently in top demand — over extensive employment history or academic credentials. Job seekers can also breathe easy if they have an employment gap: Only 9% of managers see this as an issue.

"This shift shows there's a growing appreciation for the different journeys we all take by recognizing the unique skills and experiences we collect along the way, rather than just a straight-shot career path," says Chan.

Read more:

Job growth is expected to boom in the next 6 months

Mind your interview manners

While dishonesty and rudeness can be automatic disqualifiers, speaking ill of former employers and being late are also ways to eliminate the chances of a job offer, according to a third of respondents. Meanwhile, 43% said candidates who show enthusiasm are much more likely to get hired.

"Rude behavior raises questions about your teamwork and adaptability skills, qualities that are crucial in almost every workplace," says Chan. "It really boils down to hiring managers wanting to hire an individual who adds value, not drama or future issues to a workplace. Candidates who approach their professional interactions with a positive, constructive attitude will set themselves apart and are also likely to eclipse those with more experience who might not show the same level of maturity."

Go in with eyes open

Along with lying to fill open roles, 80% also said they've lied to protect information or maintain control of the interview process. If someone does not make it past the first round of interviews, 47% said they ignore any outreach from the candidate occasionally, while 11% said they do so always.

Job seekers should remember that protecting themselves is an important part of the process. Paying attention throughout the hiring process and being up to date on trends can help applicants stay ahead of any issues.

"Staying agile and well-informed as a job seeker is vital," Chan says. "Changes to the workplace post-pandemic means that what worked yesterday might not be as effective today. Gaining foresight on these changes will make sure your job application remains relevant and resonant with current hiring trends and expectations."