Some highly skilled job seekers inadvertently hurt their chances by including less-than-flattering statements about themselves in their resumes or cover letters. For instance, this job seeker undermined her otherwise impressive application with this self-deprecating comment:

RESUME: "I won't perform well under deadline pressure."

		For more Resumania, and to submit samples you've come across, visit www.resumania.com. Keep the Resumania coming. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International Inc., 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif. 94025; or fax to 1-650-234-6998.

You have 10 seconds to rewrite that sentence.

In your application materials, you should explain what you can do, not bemoan what you can't do. While it's good to be aware of areas where you can improve, calling attention to your biggest shortcomings or least-appealing traits -- instead of highlighting your most marketable skills and abilities -- is a sure-fire way to turn off hiring managers.

"SUMMARY: I can be enthusiastic, off-the-wall and obnoxious."

Can you just be enthusiastic?

"SKILLS: I offer mediocrity at its best."

No argument here.

"QUALIFICATIONS: Impatience."

We can't wait to interview you.

This next candidate applied for an accounting position, but prospective employers were left wondering about his ability to count:

"HOBBIES: My three biggest hobbies are cars, racquetball, golf and reading."

This resume doesn't add up.

"JOB DUTIES: Mailed clients."

Overnight or ground?

Finally, focus your job search on positions for which you are qualified.

COVER LETTER: "I am interested in your company's senior book editor role. While I have never actually edited a book, I have spent considerable time reading in coffeehouses."

That's not a "latte" of experience.