Getting an interview isn’t that hard, especially when you have a skill set with some demand behind it. But just because you got to the interview stage doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. On the contrary, things are just getting started.
However, as a resume builder, there are things you can do to make the actual interview easier. In fact, with a few simple strategies the interview will feel less like a hard close (where you smell of “PLEAZZEE HIRE ME”) and more like a soft close (where the employer is highly interested and is almost chasing you).
Here’s what to do:
Know the position
If you plan on getting the job, you have to know why you’re a good fit. Do background research on the company, the industry and the position you’re looking to fill. Developing a firm grip on why you’re the answer to their prayers is priority #1.
With that information in mind, then you can take the steps to structure your resume properly. Your goal is to frame your skill set as THE answer to their most pressing needs. For example, if the sales staff has fallen short of quota for 4 quarters straight, the savvy marketing director would show how they’ve exceeded quotas for previous employers.
Tighten up your resume
Once you know your target position, it’s time to tighten up your resume. Don’t make it longer than it has to be… just long enough. That means establishing your expertise, your experience, and your skill set.
Leave all the fluff at the door… hiring managers are short on time and long on to-do’s. Get to the point, and keep your resume laser focused on the position at hand. As a resume builder, your job isn’t to write a book; your job is to sell your skill set for the highest premium possible.
Provide strong references
The resume builder should strategically use strong references. In job hunting, as in life, what we say about ourselves doesn’t hold much water. What other people say about us has a lot more weight. By including nothing more than a single reference from a reliable source is the equivalent of writing 100 pages of flowery resume chatter. So when you’re writing up your resume, make sure to include references and letters of recommendation with your package.
Related note: relevant references are even more powerful than just a reference. What I mean by that is to use a reference source that has value in the eyes of the employer. A reference from the VP of IT at your company matters more when you apply to an IT company than, say, a reference from your college professor of physics. Both are impressive, but the former is more relevant to the employer.
As you can see, the underlying key to having a resume with teeth is to be focused. Focus on the needs of your potential employer, and focus on the unique skills you offer to help. By adhering to the strategies above, your personal job hunting efforts will be more effective and successful.
Tags: Curriculum Vitae, resume, resume builder