Couch Potato Job Seeker
ningcontentIt is amazing how many people I have spoken with lately that are looking for work and somehow still think that by purely looking through employment opportunities on job boards and applying online with a generic resume – it is going to land them their next dream job. This topic has been in the news, in many blogs, on the radio and all over various newspapers and magazines, yet so many have not yet gotten the picture. Job seekers… you must do better than that!
Think outside the box and get creative! Put yourself in the hiring manager’s shoes with 500 resumes in front of you and one opening, what would get your attention and make you want to learn more about the person in the resume? Or if you are going to a job fair or career forum, what will set you apart from everyone else there? What will get you noticed (in a positive way)?
Based on my observations and experiences here are a few thoughts for job seekers. ..
- When applying for jobs, tailor your resume for each job you are applying to! Don’t just put together a general resume with your jobs in chronological order and brief descriptions of your experience… Your resume is basically your print ad; you need to make it jump out of the pile. The front page should be a basic “Cliffs Notes” of what you bring to the table for that specific position/company.
- Follow up!!!!! If you apply online, follow up with a phone call to make sure they got your completed application and show your interest. Mail your cover letter and application to the company as well as apply online. Go in person to hand deliver your cover letter and resume. Kevin Donlin had a great idea on KARE-11 that has also worked for some; mail your resume in a Thank You note, thanking the manager for taking the time to read your resume. The point is DO more and think outside the box!
- If you are going to a job fair or career forum, put your professional picture on your resume. The recruiters there see tons of people and it may be one more thing to help them remember you. This should only be used in situations like a job fair.
- I should not have to say this, but if you are going to a job fair, career forum, or going to hand in your resume in person dress professionally!!! You never know who you will meet and you don’t get a second chance at a first impression!
- Network, network, network!!!
Article by Nicole Hitch
Courtesy of the Recruiting Blogswap, a content exchange service sponsored by CollegeRecruiter.com, a leading site for college students looking for internships and recent graduates seeking entry-level jobs and other career opportunities, and posted on Great Resumes Fast.
