A resume is a condensed format of personal achievements and qualifications. It is the initial communication with a potential employer. A good resume is the first step in identifying and pursuing a career opportunity. The most important consideration when drafting a resume is to determine whether it will create the desired impression on a recruiter, enough for him to schedule an interview.
A resume is essentially a mode of communication between the candidate and the employer. It is expected to effectively communicate the candidate’s achievements and strengths. The resume should be planned and documented in such a way that it highlights every important detail that is relevant to the job at hand. It should make available, at a glance, a complete picture of the candidate and the special skills and abilities he has to offer the organization.
Differentiate Yourself
There is a difference between a resume for a sales job and one for a management position. In order to make the resume effective, the candidate should highlight his areas of interest, achievements, skills and abilities, in line with the job being applied for. While a salesperson should emphasize sales volume and targets achieved, an academic should emphasize his academic achievements and special honors received. The abilities and special achievements should be highlighted in a way that the candidate’s profile and the job requirements match perfectly.
Making An Impression
The most significant part of a resume is the top quarter. This part offers details on the identity of the candidate and his professional qualifications at a glance. A powerful headline helps in defining and distinguishing a candidate from others. The headline should be followed by information on special skills and expertise that makes him suitable for that particular position. The headline and details should be job specific and easily modified. The personal details furnished should be complete, leaving no room for a lapse in communication if you are chosen for the job.
Market Yourself
Marketing yourself and selling your ability to execute the duties assigned to the best of your ability is very important and should be kept in mind while drafting the resume. A candidate should be able to promote himself. After highlighting the academic and other achievements, you should sell personal achievements that distinguish you from the other contenders. Your efforts that highlight the leadership qualities in you should be mentioned. Knowledge of regional or foreign languages adds value, especially if the job involves national or overseas travel.
The Last Opportunity
The cover letter is an opportunity to impress the employer with your writing skills. The cover letter should be drafted in a way that it markets your abilities and suitability for the position. It should be a sincere effort to offer your services to the organization and should provide a brief snapshot of what you have to offer.
Your resume provides you with an opportunity for an interview with the employer. You should address your resume, complete with a cover letter, to a particular person rather than just a department. This ensures that the resume reaches the person in charge of recruiting, rather than in the in-box of a department. It is also the safest way of making sure that the resume and enclosed photocopies, if any, are not misplaced.
January 16, 2010
How To Strengthen Your Resume
December 20, 2009
Resume Writer – Does Your Career Hunt Need a Boost?
Hiring a resume writer can serve as a boost to your career search, but do you need one? If you ask a writer, the answer will no doubt be one sided. If you apply for jobs only to never hear back from the hiring manager, a writer will tell you that you need professional help. Before you hire a writer, however, you should think about the following:
Read over your resume. There could be spelling and grammatical mistakes that you’re not aware of. These are a huge turn off to potential employers. Take a moment to think about the language that you used. Can you change the wording to make it sound more professional?
Is your resume relevant? If you are in the midst of a career change, your resume may not be relevant to the position you are applying for. Trim away experience and qualifications that do not qualify you for the job you are applying for. A mixed resume is confusing to employers. Show them why you are qualified for the job by highlighting pertinent experience only.
Find ways to make your resume stand out from others. Highlighting your accomplishments is a great way to do this. Woo your future boss and show them why you are a great hire.
If you are still unhappy with your resume, you may want to consider hiring a resume writer. A professionally-polished resume may get you noticed, but it is not a guarantee of employment. Hiring a writer can be expensive as well. So, you should always weight the benefits against the drawbacks before you hire a writer.
Before you hire any writer, you should be sure of their qualifications. There are many people that say they can do the job, but can they? Always ask for writing samples and a fee structure outline ahead of time. Look for a service that has a flawless reputation. You may also want to select a professional that offers additional job seeking services as well.
If you need help finding a writer, start with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC). This association can provide you with a list of writers and an outline of their qualifications. All of the writers listed are certified and meet industry standards. If you choose not to use this service, be sure to research any writer or company that you plan to hire. Hiring a resume writer is not a task that should be taken lightly. It’s your money and your career on the line. Make sure that you get what you pay for.