Part 1 - Write a resume that generates results
There is no point in putting out a resume that is so weak that it is guaranteed to get little to no results. Why bother? Do you really want to find employment? These absurd rhetorical questions are meant to explain that writing your resume is serious business. If you want a position that is best-suited for you, then you have to get your way in through still the most legitimate way of doing so-get your excellent resume in before the right people. The longer Human Resources sits on your resume, the more likelihood you are not going to be invited for an interview. It's like jury deliberation. If they know you are not guilty, they will return a verdict quickly. If they have to spend too much time deliberating over your resume, you are probably not the most perfect match. You will end up in File 13 with a nice "we were able to find someone who better fits our company's needs at this time" letter. The Human Resources department has looked at thousands of resumes. They know their company's culture. They know if you'll be a good fit. So how do you set yourself up for having the best chance of getting noticed and an invitation to be interviewed? Following certain steps, including adding seemingly unimportant credentials, can produce amazing results.
Part 2 - Use clever phrasing that is unique, but not ridiculous.
One of the best ways to choose clever words and phrases is to get a hold of a marketing book. Marketing books have all the magical phrases that can be turned in to meaningful metaphors for who you are or that explain your talents. Are you "value-added" because your skills offer a prospective employer more than the next person? Are you experienced in an organization's "target market?" Have you moved from "good to great" by virtue of your accumulated experience? These catch phrases can serve as simple explanations of how you have advanced in your skill or talent. Move away from traditional wording, the mundane, or reeks-of-sameness type of resume.
Part 3 - Be succinct.
Only certain professions call for more than a two-page resume. You can always state that "additional information is available upon request." In a case such as that, make sure that additional information is, in fact, ready. If invited to an interview, you'll want to take it with you to the interview in a nice folder tucked in your brief case or satchel. Sometimes, only a one-page resume will suffice, but it better be good because that's likely your only shot. Positions that require a great deal of skill easily could run past two pages if training is required to be revealed in terms of currency in your field.
Part 4 - Find out if the prospective company requires a credit check.
If you know your credit isn't anything to brag about, don't bother applying to the company. They will turn you down. Some states don't allow this practice because it disproportionally hurts single women with children. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is checking into this practice to determine if it creates a disparate impact on protected groups. Check to see if you're in one of those states where credit checks aren't allowed. Then, determine if the position you are seeking has a requirement where you deal with money. If it doesn't, take a run at it anyway because you just might get lucky based on how strong your credentials are-exceptions can always be made, especially in the hiring process. If you're really having trouble with your credit, you might just have to move to a state that doesn't allow credit checks.
Part 5 - If you can't put together a resume, let someone else do it.
If you don't know how to put a resume together or don't really know how to write one, then hire someone. There are plenty of organizations who do this service or individuals that are wordsmiths and know exactly how to put down on paper what you have difficulty stating. Have them make it just generic enough so you can apply at various companies and for various positions. You'll get more bang for the buck this way and always have one ready when you spot an opportunity.
Dr. Rosalie Lopez is an attorney and president of The Savvy Latina, a consulting practice for Strategic Planning and Career Strategies for Individuals, Small Business, and Corporations. Learn to deal clearly, rationally, and creatively with a diverse workforce. Coaching in this area is designed to teach you the effectiveness of critical thinking and decision making that will enhance your career opportunities with the ability to identify and solve organizational issues. Focus is on career direction and strategies to achieve success in the national and global business worlds. For those starting out, a business plan can be designed specifically for your company. Need a mentor? For more information, visit http://thesavvylatina.com/.
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