Sunday, January 30, 2011

How to Create a Resume that gets Noticed

Hunting for a job can be a daunting task, especially when it comes creating the perfect resume. It is hard to believe that employers even look at your resume when they are receiving hundreds of resumes for one job opportunity. Researchers state that over 95% of resumes are looked over for a few seconds and then trashed. If you haven’t received a few calls after submitting your resume to different employers, your resume probably needs something.  You might want to consider using a resume builder.   Here are a few tips on how to create a resume that gets noticed.
1.       Tailor Your Cover Letter to Fit Each Job Opportunity
This might sound like a lot of work at first, but then again, you are trying to land a job. Many employers cringe at the sight of generic resumes and cover letters because it shows them that the applicant is putting forth much effort to impress them. Remember the old saying “A first impression is a lasting impression?” Well, it rings true in the resume world as well. Look at the requirements listed in the job posting or consider what might be a requirement for the particular job. In your cover letter address these requirements with an explanation of why you would be the perfect candidate for the job.
2.       Spend Time Creating a Top-Notch Employment History Section
One thing that irritates employers or hiring managers most is a resume that has a non-informative and poorly written job history section. This is your section to list your accomplishments, in regards to employment, from the last few years (or more) of your life. Spend time on this section and include more details than you think are required. Don’t rewrite the job description for your past jobs, but rather include your accomplishments from the job. Did you move up the ladder three times in one year? Did you receive employee of the month? It is details like this that will make you stand out in the eyes of an employer of hiring manager.

3.       Skills, Skills and More Skills
Employers want to know how you plan to be an asset to their company or business. One method of relaying your experience within the industry is to create a highly marketable skill section on your resume. Resume writing experts suggest that you include three different types of skills: job-related, transferable and adaptive. Job-related skills are obviously skills that you possess which will help you execute industry-related tasks (i.e. web development, QuickBooks, etc.). Transferable skills are broader and can be used across different industries, like critical thinking and problem solving. Adaptive skills are characteristics about you, such as, determined and social. Include a few of each type of skill within you job skill section.
These are just a few strategies that can be used to make your resume more noticeable during a job hunt. Remember, your resume represents you. If you submit a weak resume then you aren’t giving yourself a fair chance in regards to landing job. Whatever you do, be patient and persistent. Your next job is only a resume away! 

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

How to Choose the Right Resume Writing Service

If you are looking for a job you should already be aware of the fact that a resume can be the most effective tool in landing the job of your dreams, or any job for that matter. Resumes can be hard to write for a variety of reasons. You must know how to put complete thoughts down on paper, have a decent command of the English language and be able to convince the potential employer that you are the best candidate for the job.
With this being said, sometimes it is more effective to hire a writing service to create a powerful resume for you. Choosing a resume writing service can also be a difficult task. How are you supposed to know which company will write you the best resume possible? Here are a few strategies to keep in mind when evaluating different resume writing services.
1    
       1. Consider the Company’s Experience

Proven experience accompanied by effective results is a good indicator that a resume writing service is legitimate. Question the company about their history and experience. Ask questions like “How many resumes have you written for clients?” and “What kind of results can a person expect after purchasing your company’s services?” A reputable company should show you their accomplishments, testimonies and achievements before you have to ask. 

2.       2. Check Actual Capabilities and Services

Ask yourself, “How is this company going to go about creating the best resume possible for me?" If that question is difficult to answer then the company most likely isn’t the right one for you. Look for things like customer support and how the resume experts will communicate with you. Do they allow you to collaborate with a resume expert when forming your resume or do they simply have you fill out a worksheet and spit a resume back out at you? These are all very good questions to consider. A top-notch resume writing service should provide things like interactive worksheets, examples of past clients and resumes and an action plan to help you build the perfect resume.

3.       3. Cost is Always a Consideration

The cost of resume writing services can vary greatly, depending on the company or the individual providing the services. Large companies will obviously have to charge more because of the operating costs they incur on a daily basis. On the other hand, larger companies might provide you with a better resume because of the large amount of experience they have. Everyone has a different budget and that means that there is a resume writing service that is a perfect fit for anyone. Remember, sometimes you get what you pay for. If you find a company that offers extremely low rates for their services you might not get the quality resume you are looking for.
These are just a few tips to keep in mind when looking for resume writing services. Remember, a resume is one of the most effective tools you can use to land a job. Make your first impression a lasting one by choosing the right resume writing service.