Common English Mistakes in Resumes by Cantonese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Cantonese speakers from Hong Kong when writing a Resume in English.

Mistake Example #1

Overuse of direct translations from Cantonese

Objective: Seeking a job inthe marketing field where I can add value to company. I have five years ofexperience in managing social media campaigns and creating content that iseye-catchingcontent. MIn my previous job, I was responsible for increaseing brand awareness and engageing with audiences, which helped thecompanyto grow its market share.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"Just a few small changes were needed. Otherwise it sounds great!"

Objective: Seeking a job in the marketing field where I can add value to company. I have five years of experience in managing social media campaigns and creating eye-catching content. In my previous job, I was responsible for increasing brand awareness and engaging with audiences, which helped the company grow its market share.

Objective: Seeking a job in marketing field where I can add value to company. I have five years experience in managing social media campaigns and creating content that is eye-catching. My previous job, I was responsible for increase brand awareness and engage with audience, which helped company to grow its market share.

Mistake Example #2

Overuse of 'very' to emphasize adjectives

I am averyn experienced software developer with avery strong background in Java and Python. I have worked on verycomplex projects that requiredvery detailed attention to coding standards andvery efficient problem-solving skills. My previous employer was veryimpressed with my ability to deliver veryhigh-quality work under verytight deadlines.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"Watch out for overusing the word "very." : )"

I am an experienced software developer with a strong background in Java and Python. I have worked on complex projects that required detailed attention to coding standards and efficient problem-solving skills. My previous employer was impressed with my ability to deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines.

I am a very experienced software developer with a very strong background in Java and Python. I have worked on very complex projects that required very detailed attention to coding standards and very efficient problem-solving skills. My previous employer was very impressed with my ability to deliver very high-quality work under very tight deadlines.

Mistake Example #3

Confusion with countable vs. uncountable nouns ('She has much friends')

Objective: SI am seeking position ina marketing departmentposition where I can utilize my skills and contribute to company growth. I have muchextensive experiencein managing projects and coordinating events, and Iam confident in my ability to work well witha diverse team. My education background includes adegree in Bbusiness Aadministration fromthe University of Hong Kong.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking for readability and flow."

Objective: I am seeking a marketing department position where I can utilize my skills and contribute to company growth. I have extensive experience managing projects and coordinating events, and am confident in my ability to work well with a diverse team. My education background includes a degree in business administration from the University of Hong Kong.

Objective: Seeking position in marketing department where I can utilize my skills and contribute to company growth. I have much experience in managing projects and coordinating events, and I am confident in my ability to work with diverse team. My education background includes degree in Business Administration from University of Hong Kong.