One of the most frustrating aspects of job applications is having to re-enter your work history after already uploading your résumé. Many find this redundant step tedious and time-consuming.
In a June 2024 survey of 2,000 US professionals conducted by FlexJobs and MyPerfectResume, 79% cited re-entering their work history as their biggest pet peeve in job applications.
Despite the frustration, this step is crucial for several reasons. If you’ve been tempted to skip this part or simply type “See résumé,” you might be hurting your chances of landing an interview.
The primary reason is applicant tracking systems (ATS). When you upload your résumé, the system parses it to extract key information. Re-entering your work history helps ensure that this information is accurately captured and indexed by the ATS, which scans for relevant keywords and experience.
Résumés often use complex formatting that can confuse ATS, leading to incomplete or incorrect data extraction. Filling out text fields with straightforward information helps ensure the system reads your experience correctly.
Additionally, many job application portals require you to attest that the information you provide is accurate. Employers rely on this certification to confirm the integrity of the data, as they don’t receive the same verification from your résumé alone.
Moreover, some hiring managers find it off-putting when candidates write “see résumé,” interpreting it as a disregard for instructions.
To streamline the process, consider keeping a plain text version of your résumé. This makes it easier to copy and paste information into application fields, ensuring consistency across both formats.
By carefully re-entering your job history, you enhance your chances of making a positive impression and ensure that all your skills, experiences, and accomplishments are accurately represented.