I have been engrossed in job-hunting processes for a long time. Years ago, in a job search of my own, I landed a position with a temporary staffing office. Later, I worked with a recruiter. A few years later, I switched over from the staffing side (placing qualified candidates in new positions) to t
he job seekers’ side (helping people make an impression and seize job opportunities).
It’s exciting work. Knowing that every single person has something to offer. Understanding that everyone has a unique set of skills, experiences and accomplishments that add dollar-sign value to an organizat
ion. Watching people secure rewarding positions in all types of job markets.
I’ll tell you something else that excites me about job searching. Resumes. I know it sounds crazy, but I love the fact that there is a piece of paper — two pieces, actually — at the foundation of almost every job hunt. Resumes introduce job seekers to the working world. They’re calling cards. Invitations. Backstage passes to the hottest show in town.
And yet, resumes are so simple, they’re almost baffling. You have three ingredients: Format, font and language. You can mix them in any way you choose. Sharpen the verbs to grab hold of your readers’ attention. Soften the font to highlight your easy-going personality. Throw in some arrow-shaped bullets to muscle your way into a competitive role.
There is a trick to writing a job-winning resume. Two tricks, really. First, you must create a document that matches your industry. Teachers have to sound like teachers. In general, they’re knowledgeable, organized and passionate about education. Executives must sound like executives. They have business expertise, leadership authority and the ability to build a profitable future. Nurses, librarians, landscape designers, sales directors: Every field has its own language that you need to speak fluently — at least on paper — to get through the door.
Secondly, your resume needs to speak with your unique voice. Remember, your document will introduce you to potential employers. It will represent you when you aren’t in the room. So, create a resume that looks like you (figuratively) and sounds like you (literally). Choose a format that aligns with your personality. Select a font that suits your character. Write content that fits your communication style.
But don’t go overboard. If you feel tempted to spice up your resume with over-the-top graphics, colors or language, remind yourself that most employers favor a clean, professional approach. Use an appealing format that catches the eye. An easy-to-read font. Consistent characters (like bullet points and hyphens) throughout the document. And powerful language that makes hiring managers sit up and take notice.
Of course, if you’re targeting an industry or position that celebrates original design choices – such as advertising, graphic design, illustration and other creative roles – and your personality fits the bill, feel free to disregard the old black-ink-on-white paper standard. Everyone else should focus on format, font and language.
A resume won’t land your next job. Not by itself. But a stand-out resume has great power. It starts as a strong, confident handshake and leads to a lively discussion. Soon, it sparks relationships, prompts phone calls and opens up opportunities that you didn’t know exist. And yet, it’s just a piece of paper. That’s kind of exciting, don’t you think?
Contact Eve at Eve.GetaJob@gmail.com.
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