Everett, Wash.
Published: Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Lessons learned from years of professional resume writing

By Eve Nicholas

 I don't usually write columns about my experiences as a professional resume writer. Instead, I comb through my background in recruiting, management and writing, and draw on my daily communication with job seekers to provide real-world examples and advice.

Today, I wanted to try something different and prepare a column from my resume writing desk. From here, I have a unique perspective on the job market, a viewpoint shaped by my clients and the obstacles and successes that they face. I only interact with each client for a short time (just long enough to understand their work histories and goals, and run through the revision process a couple of times). But during this communication, I gain an inside view of the hiring process -- its challenges, thrills and surprises.

In general, professional resume writing looks like this: Job hunters contact me with their questions and writing needs. I try to help by providing general advice (this is not the same as the specific, hands-on coaching sessions offered by career consultants) and creating custom documents. Then, my clients throw themselves into the world of job searching -- with all of its possibilities and uncertainties. Lucky for me, many of them keep me posted as their careers change and progress.

During my career in this business, I have seen many highs and lows, including times when job hunters had the upper hand in salary negotiations, bringing in sky-high compensation and fringe benefits for mid-range positions. Other times, businesses had the advantage, recruiting superior candidates at token salaries, building an impressive work force at a reduced price.

I don't need to tell you that the recession has caused a significant change in the job market. I'm sure that you read the monthly statistics on unemployment, and many of you have first-hand experience with layoffs and hiring freezes. But, as I mentioned, my work gives me a unique vantage point into employment trends (and into the lives of job hunters).

Here are a few of my observations:

  • People land jobs in all economic conditions. Even this one. Every week clients talk to me about pending interviews, job offers and new positions. The hiring pace may be slower than it was in the past, but the market is alive and kicking.

    Job seekers have a lot of questions. Most of the time, they want to know the 'rules' of job searching, and the 'right' way to proceed on their career path. Here is my typical response: With only one exception, there are no hard-and-fast rules and no right answers in job hunting. Figure out what works best for your situation, and go with it. Here's the one exception: Never lie.

    Most employers look for motivated, likeable people to join their teams. They also appreciate a good deal. Show them that you will bring a positive attitude to the workplace while improving the bottom line, and you'll have a great shot at landing a new position.

    The more effort you put into your search, the faster you'll land a new job. If you shuffle out your resume to every employer with an e-mail address, you can expect the process to last a very long time. On the other hand, if you research companies, network and improve your presentation, you'll make an impact with hiring managers. Put in the effort. You'll stand out from the crowd.



    Eve Nicholas: Eve.GetAJob@gmail.com.
    © 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA