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Ask the Experts:
Checking to See if Employer Received My Resume/b>
Question:
I am a citizen of China but studying in France. I have applied for many
jobs by mailing and emailing my resume, but I never hear back from any of
the employers. The ads that I am responding to do not include a phone
number, so I don't know how to check to see if they even received my resume.
Answer:
You are not alone. A recent study revealed that 90% of resumes sent online
never even get a response. So yours is a common frustration. A resume is an
excellent tool but job seekers generally fail to discriminate when it comes
to handing it out. It is always better to follow with a resume than to lead
with it.
What this means is that contacting and connecting with a prospective
employer before handing over your resume will go much further in getting
your resume attention. Obtaining phone numbers and even the name of a hiring
manager is a relatively simple process for the job seeker that takes the
time to do it. Phone directories are available on CD ROM from just about any
software retailer and many companies make offline contact information
available on their web site. If all else fails, call the phone company.
Companies are generally very visible.
If you are responding to an ad that does not list a phone number or company
name, there is frankly not much you can do. In these situations, we simply
admit that "Blessed is he with no expectations for he shall not be
disappointed!".
But if you can find the employer, take a proactive approach to preparing the
way for your resume. Sending a letter, conversing over the phone and
especially holding a networking meeting with a prospective employer allows
the job seeker to build interest and generate something memorable.
Remember-- lots of people respond blindly to advertisements and send in
their resumes. When your resume sits in a stack of dozens of other resumes
it is difficult to be distinguished. By connecting with an employer before
sending the resume you stand a much better chance of having your resume
reviewed.
--Kelly Stone, myjobsearch.com