Do Resumes Work?
March 18, 2009
Creating or updating your resume is often the first step you think of when you are preparing for a job campaign. Does it work? Is a resume effective? I believe it’s a helpful tool in the job search process, but it can be overrated. It’s one piece of the puzzle, but only one piece. Yes, you want your resume to be max powerful, but don’t count on it as your only tool. First you want to be clear on the job target: what do you love to do? What do you want from your job at this point in your life? Also, look at yourself: your talents, strengths, assets, skills, and ask yourself how these relate to what you love to do. Set out your job objective, your main qualifiers, your achievements, as well, of course, as your education/training and the last 10 to 15 years of your work history. See sample formats in resume books and online.Then look at companies/organizations you’d like to work at. Research their focus and mission so you can effectively approach the ones that are a match for you. Network with friends and former colleagues to learn of other companies, connect with contacts. Whenever possible, introduce yourself to the decision maker — easier to do in smaller organizations. Create a portfolio so you have proof of achievements, experience. And yes, email resumes to job search websites and, whenever you have a name, to decision makers. There are more things you can do, too. Search online for “Job Search Strategies.” Use your resume–if appropriate for the position you want, and also use lots of other tools. I’m wishing you the best!