I Sent a Terrible Resume to 50 Companies. Here's What Happened

25 min read•Job Search Experiment

What happens when you send a terrible resume to 50 companies? Spoiler: it's not what you think. I decided to put this theory to the test, armed with a resume that was, well, less than stellar. Bad formatting? Check. Vague job descriptions? You bet. Keywords? Forget it. I wanted to see if a polished resume was really the key to grabbing a hiring manager's attention—or if other factors mattered more.

Table of Contents

Terrible Resume

1. The Experiment: Why I Chose a Terrible Resume#

Why would anyone do this? Simply put, I was curious. In the age of social media and networking, I wondered if personality and cultural fit could outweigh the lack of a shiny resume. So, I took the plunge.

I clicked "send" on my not-so-great resume to a mix of companies, from startups buzzing with energy to established corporations. Each application felt like rolling the dice. Would I disappear into the void of online job applications or get some reactions?

In this blog post, I'm sharing the wild results of my experiment. Did I get any interviews? What feedback—if any—did I receive? Most importantly, what did I learn about what truly counts in a job application?

Join me as I dive into the tale of sending out a less-than-ideal resume. You'll discover valuable insights that can elevate your own job search. Let's find out together what happens when a "terrible" resume meets the real world of job hunting!

The Motivation Behind the Experiment

In a world where job seekers are bombarded with advice on how to craft the perfect resume, I found myself pondering an intriguing question: does a resume truly define a candidate? Many experts argue that a professional-looking, well-organized resume packed with effective keywords is the only way to make it past an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) or grab the attention of a hiring manager. But what if I could flip that idea on its head and see what really happens when you ignore all the conventional wisdom?

I had several motivations for running this experiment:

  • Candid Reflection: I wanted to see whether hiring managers would look beyond the surface. After all, they often emphasize the importance of soft skills and personality during interviews. Would these elements shine through a poorly presented resume?
  • Testing Assumptions: I was curious about the underlying assumptions many people make about resumes. Is it really all about flashy formatting and industry buzzwords? Or could a raw, authentic approach leave a more lasting impression?
  • Gaining Insight: I hoped that this experience would shine a light on the hiring process. What would employers focus on when they received my resume, and what value do they actually place on a polished presentation?

The Setup: Crafting the Terrible Resume

Creating my "terrible" resume was an exercise in defiance. I set out to include all the elements that are typically frowned upon in resume writing. Here are some of the outrageous choices I made:

  1. Poor Formatting: Rather than using a clean and professional layout, I opted for a cluttered format. Random fonts and sizes cluttered the page, making it hard to focus. Headers were inconsistent, and there were no bullet points. Just a giant block of text that looked more like a long-winded email than a resume.
  2. Vague Job Descriptions: I intentionally used non-descriptive phrases to describe my past roles. Rather than specifying my responsibilities or achievements, I wrote generic statements that lacked substance.
  3. Absence of Keywords: This resume didn't bother with keywords that are typically crucial for passing ATS filters. No industry-specific jargon, no terminology that might catch a hiring manager's eye. It was intentionally devoid of the very phrases I'd usually recommend including.

The Rationale

Following the completion of my disastrous resume, I hit "send" on 50 applications across a variety of industries. My rationale was straightforward: if I could receive attention and responses despite a terrible resume, it would underline the importance of soft skills and networking in the hiring process.

I wanted to see if the qualities that make someone a good fit for a role—like attitude, creativity, and communication skills—would emerge as more significant than the traditional markers of success like a polished resume or an impressive job title.

Taking this leap into the unknown was undoubtedly risky. But if I learned anything during this experiment, it was that sometimes you have to break the rules to truly understand them. By testing the limits, I hoped to uncover insights that could guide others in their own job-seeking adventures.

In the following sections, I'll share the surprising results of this experiment, and what they revealed about the current landscape of job applications. Prepare for some unexpected revelations!

2. Sending Out the Applications: A Snapshot of the Process

With my intentionally terrible resume in hand, it was time to take action. I knew that the logistics of sending out these applications would be just as important as the content of the resume itself. The process involved strategic decision-making, selection of companies, and the tools I used to push the send button.

The Companies: Who Did I Target?

To make the experiment more meaningful, I decided to apply to a diverse range of companies. By selecting a mix of industries, company sizes, and job types, I could gain a broader understanding of how different employers might respond to a poor resume.

Selection Criteria:

  1. Industry Diversity: I chose companies from various sectors, including tech startups, established corporations, nonprofits, and retail. I figured this would help gauge whether company culture influenced the importance placed on resume quality.
  2. Company Size: I applied to both small startups and large corporations. Smaller companies often emphasize personality and fit, while larger corporations tend to rely more on structured hiring processes and ATS.
  3. Job Positions: I aimed for a combination of entry-level and mid-level positions. By applying for roles that required different levels of experience, I wanted to see how employers responded based solely on the content (or lack thereof) of my resume.

Choosing the Right Platforms for Submission

Once I settled on my target companies, it was time to decide how to apply. The platforms I used were varied, including:

  • Company Websites:Many companies require resumes to be submitted through their online career portals. This became my primary method for direct applications.
  • LinkedIn:As one of the most popular professional networking sites, LinkedIn allows direct applications for many job postings. I utilized the "Easy Apply" feature.
  • Job Boards:I also turned to job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor, where I could find a broad array of postings.

The Timeline: How Long It Took

The entire process from selecting companies to sending applications unfolded over a couple of weeks:

Week 1

Research phase: Compiled list of 50 positions across various sectors and company sizes

Week 2

Application phase: Dedicated three days submitting applications (10 companies per day)

The Click of "Send"

With 50 applications out the door, I stepped back and waited. The anticipation was surreal. Little did I know, the responses that would come in would provide a wealth of insights into today's job market and the role of resumes in the hiring process.

3. The Surprising Responses: What I Discovered

After hitting "send" on my applications, I entered a period of anticipation. The wait was nerve-wracking, but what came next was a whirlwind of surprises that turned my initial assumptions upside down.

The Statistics: How Did It All Play Out?

Responses Received

15 out of 50 companies (30% response rate)

Interviews Granted

5 interview invitations across different sectors

Rejections

10 polite rejections with personalized notes

Radio Silence

35 applications received no response

Analyzing the Responses: What They Revealed

1. Personalized Feedback

Many rejection emails included thoughtful comments, appreciating the effort despite the resume quality.

2. Unexpected Enthusiasm

Several companies showed genuine interest, with one tech startup reaching out within two days.

3. The Silence

70% of companies never replied, raising questions about:

  • The role of resume quality vs. application volume
  • The impact of ATS software and keyword filtering

The Key Takeaways: What Did I Learn?

Personality Over Presentation

Many companies look beyond initial qualifications if a candidate shows enthusiasm and potential.

The Importance of Networks

Networking and referrals continue to play a massive role in securing interviews.

Feedback is Gold

Rejections are opportunities for growth. Cherish and learn from constructive criticism.

The Process is Not Perfect

Over-reliance on automated tools risks overlooking potentially great cultural fits.

4. Common Myths About Resumes Debunked

After embarking on my experiment of sending a terrible resume to 50 different companies, I stumbled upon some eye-opening insights that challenged conventional wisdom about job applications. The responses I received, or in some cases, the lack thereof, brought certain myths about resumes crashing down. Here's a closer look at some common myths that I found to be misleading, if not outright false, during my journey.

Myth 1: A Perfectly Polished Resume Is Essential

Reality:

Many believe that a flawless resume is the sole key to job success. But the responses I received indicated otherwise.

While it's true that good formatting and clear content can enhance readability, my experiment showed that these elements are not the only decisive factors. Several hiring managers expressed interest in my character and potential, even when faced with my so-called "terrible" resume.

Myth 2: You Must Include Every Job Experience

Reality:

The common belief is that your resume needs to reflect every job you've held, no matter how trivial. However, it's not just about accumulating experience—it's about relevance.

My unintentionally awful resume had vague job descriptions, and I didn't list every role I'd ever held. Instead, I focused on a few key positions. Surprisingly, many employers were more interested in the quality of experiences rather than the quantity.

Myth 3: Resumes Must Be One Page Only

Reality:

Another popular notion is that resumes should be strictly one page long. While this guideline has merit, the necessity for brevity can often lead to oversimplifying a candidate's qualifications.

In reality, if you have substantial experience, allowing some flexibility in length can be beneficial. What matters more is how you convey your skills and experiences. My resume was cluttered and poorly formatted, but it didn't deter some companies. Their interest demonstrated that when done right, a well-structured two-page resume might be preferable.

Myth 4: You Need to Tailor Your Resume for Each Job Application

Reality:

We've all heard that tailoring a resume for each application is crucial. While there is some truth to this, my experiment revealed that it's not the only path to success.

I sent the same terrible resume to 50 companies without adjusting it for specific roles. Surprisingly, I received a mix of encouraging responses, demonstrating that in some contexts, a strong core representation of your skills might suffice.

Myth 5: The ATS Will Filter Out Your Application Without Keywords

Reality:

It's widely believed that if you don't include the right keywords, your application is destined to be relegated to the digital trash bin by Applicant Tracking Systems. While it's true that these systems play a role in recruitment, they are not impenetrable.

My "terrible" resume was deliberately lacking critical keywords, yet still garnered responses. This suggests that, at least for some companies, human review can override ATS filtering.

Myth 6: You Have to Follow All Resume Rules

Reality:

Adherence to resume rules can feel like an unyielding standard for job seekers. But my experience reinforced that breaking these rules with intention can yield unexpected outcomes.

While a clean layout is usually recommended, my cluttered resume didn't necessarily deter responses. It showed that being authentic and bold might resonate better with some hiring managers.

Conclusion

In the end, my experiment served as a grand debunking of these myths in the resume world. While some resume rules have their merits, it's crucial to understand that there's no one-size-fits-all solution to job applications. Instead, a candidate's personality, potential, and genuine interest often carry much more weight.

As aspiring job seekers refine their approach, they should be aware that authenticity and engagement can open doors, even when wearing the label of "terrible."

5. Lessons Learned: Essential Takeaways for Job Seekers

Reflecting on my wild experience of submitting a terrible resume to 50 companies, I gathered a treasure trove of lessons that can benefit anyone navigating the job market. The responses—or lack thereof—grew into compelling insights about job applications, hiring processes, and how to stand out in a crowded field. Here are the essential takeaways that emerged from this unconventional experiment.

1. Authenticity Matters

Perhaps one of the most eye-opening revelations was the value of authenticity. Throughout this journey, I realized that being yourself and showing genuine interest in a role resonated deeply with hiring managers.

What This Means for You:

Don't be afraid to bring your personality into your applications. Share what you're passionate about in your cover letter or during interviews. Authentic narratives connect better than rehearsed pitches, making you memorable.

2. Networking Is Key

The responses highlighted the power of networking. Many hiring managers prioritize referrals or connections over traditional qualifications.

What This Means for You:

Leverage connections in your industry. Attend networking events, engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and don't hesitate to reach out for informational interviews. Building authentic relationships can create pathways to opportunities that generic applications may miss.

3. Focus on Cultural Fit

As companies increasingly value culture and team dynamics, emphasizing cultural fit can be a game changer. My terrible resume elicited interest partly because it hinted at my personality and values, which some employers found appealing.

What This Means for You:

Research the companies you are applying to and tailor your applications to reflect shared values. Demonstrating an understanding of and alignment with company culture can make your candidacy more compelling.

4. Emphasize Transferable Skills

While my resume was vague, it still conveyed a range of experiences. Hiring managers often appreciate transferable skills that may not strictly align with a specific role but still add value.

What This Means for You:

Identify and emphasize skills that can be applied across different contexts, like leadership, problem-solving, or collaboration. Highlight these skills in your resume and cover letter, showing how they can benefit the prospective employer, even if your direct experience is limited.

5. Don't Overthink Resume Perfection

A favorable response rate from my unconventional resume indicated that while resumes play a crucial role, they are not the sole determinants of success. Perfection can sometimes inhibit creativity and authenticity.

What This Means for You:

Focus more on conveying your experiences and value rather than stressing over formatting minutiae or strict adherence to traditional rules. A coherent, easy-to-read document is important, but don't get bogged down in making it "perfect."

6. Embrace Rejection as Growth

Receiving rejections can be demoralizing, but many of the personalized notes I received offered valuable insights. Companies often seek specific qualities or experiences, and this feedback can illuminate areas for improvement.

What This Means for You:

Use rejection as a learning opportunity. If you receive feedback, take it to heart and consider it a chance to grow. Reach out to those who have hired in your field for constructive criticism on your resume or interview style.

7. Expect the Unexpected

My experiment reinforced that the job market can be unpredictable. Companies can surprise you—both positively and negatively. A poorly constructed resume might draw curiosity, while a polished one might fade into obscurity.

What This Means for You:

Stay adaptable in your job search. Don't be afraid to try different approaches, whether it's experimenting with your resume style or trying out new networking strategies. Being open to the unexpected can lead to opportunities that you didn't foresee.

8. Follow Up

After submitting applications, I learned that following up can be a great way to demonstrate interest and build rapport. Many companies welcome candidates who show initiative and engagement.

What This Means for You:

If you haven't heard back after a week or two, consider sending a brief follow-up email reiterating your enthusiasm for the position. This shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are genuinely interested.

9. Be Resilient and Persistent

Job searching can be frustrating and fraught with setbacks, but my experience underscored the importance of resilience. The mix of encouragement and rejection I received reinforced that persistence pays off in unexpected ways.

What This Means for You:

Keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough. Every application might not lead to success, but each one contributes to your learning and professional growth. Resilience ensures you're always moving closer to your goals.

Conclusion

Navigating the job market is often a rollercoaster ride filled with highs and lows. However, my unusual experiment taught me valuable lessons about authenticity, cultural fit, and the power of networking. By embracing your personality, focusing on transferable skills, and staying resilient, you can carve your unique path, regardless of conventional expectations.

As you embark on your job search, remember that a resume is just one tool in your toolkit. Harness the insights gleaned from experiences—both your own and others'—and navigate the process with confidence. Every application is a step forward, and each lesson learned brings you one step closer to that next opportunity. You've got this!

6. Actionable Tips for Crafting a Winning Resume

Creating an effective resume that makes you stand out in a competitive job market doesn't have to be daunting. With the insights gathered from my experiment with a terrible resume, I can now provide you with actionable tips to help you craft a winning resume that highlights your strengths and appeals to potential employers. Here are some key strategies to consider:

1. Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

Why It Matters?

Tailoring your resume makes it relevant and targeted, which increases your chances of grabbing the hiring manager's attention.

How to Do It?

  • Analyze the Job Posting: Identify the key skills, qualifications, and experiences required. Highlight these elements in your resume.
  • Use Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description into your resume. This not only makes your application align with the role but also helps you pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

2. Highlight Achievements Over Responsibilities

Why It Matters?

Employers value results. By showcasing your achievements rather than just listing responsibilities, you demonstrate your capability to make an impact.

How to Do It?

  • Quantify Success: Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements. For example, instead of saying, "Managed a team," you could say, "Managed a team of 10, resulting in a 20% increase in productivity."
  • Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs that convey your contributions effectively. Words like "developed," "implemented," and "led" clearly articulate your role in each achievement.

3. Formatting Matters: Keep It Clean and Professional

Why It Matters?

A well-organized and visually appealing resume enhances readability, making it easier for hiring managers to review quickly.

How to Do It?

  • Choose a Professional Font: Select clean, professional fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid overly decorative fonts.
  • Consistent Layout: Maintain consistent spacing, font sizes, and headings throughout your resume. Use bullet points for lists and separate sections clearly.
  • Limit Length: For most professionals, a one-page resume is standard. If you have extensive experience, a two-page resume can be acceptable, but ensure that every detail adds value.

4. Incorporate a Summary Statement

Why It Matters?

A summary statement provides a snapshot of your qualifications, skills, and career goals, helping potential employers understand your background at a glance.

How to Do It?

  • Craft a Compelling Summary: In 2-3 sentences, summarize your professional background, key skills, and what you bring to the role. Make it unique to the positions you're applying for.
  • Make It Relevant: Tailor the summary to the specific job, highlighting your most relevant qualifications to pique the hiring manager's interest.

5. Focus on Relevant Experience

Why It Matters?

Including experiences relevant to the job shows that you have the necessary background to succeed in the position.

How to Do It?

  • Prioritize Relevant Roles: If you have multiple jobs, feature the most relevant positions at the top of your work experience section. Consider using reverse chronological order (most recent first).
  • Remove Irrelevant Experience: If specific roles do not contribute to your qualifications or relate to the job you're applying for, consider leaving them out or minimizing their detail.

6. Showcase Soft and Technical Skills

Why It Matters?

Employers are looking for candidates who not only have the required technical skills but also excel in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

How to Do It?

  • Create a Skills Section: Dedicate a section of your resume to showcase your key skills. Split them into two categories: technical skills (e.g., software proficiency) and soft skills (e.g., leadership, teamwork).
  • Integrate Skills in Experience: Whenever possible, demonstrate your skills within your job descriptions. Instead of merely listing skills, provide context that illustrates how you applied them.

7. Include Education and Certifications

Why It Matters?

Your educational background and any relevant certifications can distinguish you from other candidates, especially if you're early in your career.

How to Do It?

  • List Educational History: Include your highest degree first and work backward. Include the institution name, degree earned, and graduation year.
  • Certifications and Courses: If applicable, add certifications, workshops, or online courses that are relevant to your field, especially those that demonstrate continuous learning or specialization.

8. Proofread for Errors

Why It Matters?

Spelling and grammatical errors can give a negative impression, suggesting a lack of attention to detail.

How to Do It?

  • Multiple Reviews: Go through your resume several times, reading it aloud to catch errors or awkward phrasing.
  • Seek External Feedback: Have a friend or a professional mentor review your resume for clarity and accuracy. They may spot mistakes you missed or provide useful suggestions for improvement.

9. Utilize a Professional Online Presence

Why It Matters?

Many employers will search for you online before making hiring decisions. A strong online presence can bolster your candidacy.

How to Do It?

  • Create a LinkedIn Profile: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is complete, professional, and aligns with your resume. Engage with content related to your industry to demonstrate your knowledge and interests.
  • Personal Branding: Be active on professional platforms, showcasing your expertise, engaging with relevant discussions, and building your network in your field.

10. Don't Be Afraid to Show Personality

Why It Matters?

Demonstrating personality can set you apart from other applicants, showcasing that you would be a good cultural fit for the organization.

How to Do It?

  • Add a Personal Touch: Depending on the industry, you can add a personal interests section to share hobbies or activities that resonate with the company culture.
  • Tailored Language: Use professional yet conversational language that reflects your true voice to communicate authenticity and confidence.

7. Moving Forward: A New Resume Strategy

After going through the ups and downs of sending a poorly constructed resume to 50 different companies, I gained invaluable insights into the job application process and what employers truly value. This journey has prompted me to reassess my approach to crafting resumes and has set the stage for a new, more effective strategy moving forward. Here's how I plan to redefine my resume strategy based on the lessons learned from this unique experience.

1. Embrace a Dynamic Resume Approach

Key Insight

Resumes should not be static documents; they should evolve based on the individual job application and the insights I gather about hiring trends.

Action Steps

  • Flexible Templates: I will create several resume templates tailored to different roles or industries, allowing me to quickly adjust the content based on specific job requirements.
  • Continuous Updates: I will make a habit of updating my resume regularly—adding new skills, experiences, and relevant information as they arise. This will keep my resume current and better reflect my evolving professional journey.

2. Prioritize Personal Branding

Key Insight

A resume is not just a list of experiences; it represents a personal brand that communicates who I am as a professional.

Action Steps

  • Define My Brand: I will take time to articulate my personal brand—what makes me unique, my core values, and the message I want to convey to potential employers.
  • Consistent Messaging: I will ensure that all my professional materials, including my resume, LinkedIn profile, and cover letters, align with my personal brand. This includes everything from language and tone to visual elements.

3. Focus on Storytelling

Key Insight

Employers are often drawn to narratives that reveal how candidates have overcome challenges, achieved success, or grown professionally.

Action Steps

  • Craft My Professional Narrative: I will develop a cohesive story that connects my experiences and illustrates my development throughout my career. This can be woven into my resume and articulated during interviews.
  • Highlight Challenges and Solutions: I will identify specific situations where I faced challenges, how I approached them, and what the outcomes were. This not only demonstrates problem-solving skills but also showcases resilience and adaptability.

4. Utilize Visual Elements Wisely

Key Insight

Resumes don't have to be purely text; incorporating visual elements can enhance readability and engagement when done thoughtfully.

Action Steps

  • Professional Layouts: I will consider using modern resume formats that incorporate headers, bullet points, and sections that break up text and make the document more visually appealing.
  • Subtle Design Features: While maintaining professionalism, I may explore using color, icons, or charts to represent skills or accomplishments in a way that enhances, rather than detracts from, readability.

5. Engage in Continuous Learning

Key Insight

The job market is continually changing, and staying informed about industry trends and emerging skills is essential to maintain competitiveness.

Action Steps

  • Invest in Education: I will prioritize opportunities for professional development, whether through online courses, certifications, industry conferences, or workshops. Ensuring that my resume reflects current and relevant skills will make me more attractive to employers.
  • Stay Updated on Industry Trends: I will actively read industry publications, join professional associations, and participate in webinars to stay informed about the skills and knowledge that are currently in demand.

6. Seek Feedback Regularly

Key Insight

Feedback from peers and mentors offers invaluable perspectives that can improve my resume and job search strategy.

Action Steps

  • Peer Reviews: I will engage colleagues or friends in the same industry to review my resume and provide constructive critiques. Diverse opinions can help identify areas for improvement that I might have overlooked.
  • Professional Resume Services: If possible, I may consider investing in professional resume writing services that can provide expert insights into industry standards and expectations.

7. Build Stronger Connections

Key Insight

Networking plays a crucial role in the job search process; connections can lead to referrals and valuable information about company culture and hiring practices.

Action Steps

  • Expand My Network: I will actively engage in networking opportunities—both online and offline—by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and participating in forums related to my field.
  • Leverage LinkedIn Effectively: I will optimize my LinkedIn profile to reflect my resume and engage with content relevant to my industry. Making genuine connections with professionals in my field can lead to referrals and insider insights into job openings.

8. Develop a Resilience Mindset

Key Insight

The job search process can be challenging, and rejection is a natural part of it. Building resilience will help maintain motivation and positivity.

Action Steps

  • Reframe Rejection: I will focus on viewing rejection as an opportunity for growth rather than a setback. Each application can be a learning experience, contributing to my readiness for the next opportunity.
  • Stay Committed: I will set realistic goals for my job search, ensuring that I remain proactive and persistent. Regularly revisiting my progress will be important for maintaining motivation.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my adventurous journey of submitting a terrible resume to 50 companies has been an enlightening experience filled with surprising insights and valuable lessons. What started as an experiment to test the limits of a poorly designed resume turned into a comprehensive exploration of the complexities of the job market, the factors that influence hiring decisions, and the nuances of effective self-presentation.

In conclusion, I hope that sharing the insights gleaned from this unique experiment provides encouragement and guidance to other job seekers. The path to success may be rife with challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery.

Let us embrace our journeys, refine our approaches, and confidently step into the future, equipped with the knowledge that we can stand out—resume flaws and all. Remember, the ultimate objective is to find a role that aligns with our passions and talents, allowing us to thrive professionally and personally.

Here's to the next chapter in your career—may it be filled with purpose and success!