Posts Tagged ‘resume’

« Older Entries

Using Assessment Tests to Determine Your Career Path

Wednesday, April 13th, 2016

You may have tried one back in high school: your school guidance counselor gathered all the juniors and seniors together and handed out these standardized tests to determine what you should be when you grow up, to help in making plans for college. Of course, they were supposed to be all about what you should be and not what you wanted to be, but you could still skew the results that way if you weren’t careful (or didn’t care). I remember all the bars showing what areas best suited my responses… and all of the lines were very short except for one (turns out, as things go, it was the wrong one). Plenty of other people were told they should be park rangers because of a love of horticulture… many laughs all around.

So if you can skew them so badly and some seem to pull answers out of thin air, are the more sophisticated ones useful for those of us who have left high school and even college far behind?

Are you wondering what career you should go for? Are you looking to make a career change mid-life but still feel like you don’t really even know what you want to do when you grow up? Your resume is great for telling you where you’ve come from, but would a self-assessment test like, say, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), the DiSC Profile, or the Strong Interest Inventory, be helpful in pointing your way forward?

Well, we’ve checked with a number of professionals on the subject to see what they think:

Matching your personality, preferences and natural abilities to the kinds of requirements of work, pressures and environments of a given career can be one among many predictors of your ease of achieving success. When you work at a job that aligns well with your personality, it will likely feel natural… Assessment tools like Myers-Briggs can enable you to understand your preferred way of getting energy, perceiving information, making judgments and organizing your life. This tool assesses people in terms of their inherent tendency toward being Extravert or Introvert (E or I), Sensate or I(N)tuitive (S or N), Thinking or Feeling (T or F) and Judging or Perceiving (J or P). Your overall personality is the combination of one of these choices in each of the four category sets.

There are many ways that various tests dissect human personality and behavior and correlate them to types of jobs that fit well. For example, individuals oriented toward working with things and ideas might fit well as scientists, forensic types or in other problem-solving fields. Alternatively, people orientated toward working with ideas might do well as writers, artists, or other creative types.

Of course, it might be that you have a particular interest in a field that isn’t generally associated with your personality type (which is what kept skewing my results on those tests in high school). Though you may be able to handle that type of job, it will feel less natural and take more energy to get it done properly – like writing with your nondominant hand. It isn’t that you can’t or shouldn’t do the job. But it certainly shows the limitations of the tests that focus on your responses.

Testing is one of many considerations that should go into deciding on one’s career direction. The various personal assessment tests have value insofar as they can help an individual in the process of self-discovery. I’ve always been partial to the 360Reach survey. With this tool, a person surveys friends, colleagues, relatives, or others. The results can provide valuable feedback about how you are seen and help you determine what differentiates you from everyone else in the marketplace. This tends to work better than the usual surveys limited to people with whom you work.

Of course, the MBTI test is often required by employers to aid in their candidate assessment, so understanding how you respond to this test can be beneficial in determining whether your potential employer will consider you a good fit, not just in terms of competency but also work culture and team dynamics.

So, what’s the bottom line for job seekers and career planners?

When used appropriately by both employers and job seekers, testing can be a useful element of the Chemistry part of the equation, in determining the best candidate to job to employer fit… but it isn’t and shouldn’t be the final decision point, so use with discretion.

Good luck!

Should Assessment Tests Determine Your Next Career Move? | Arnie Fertig via US News & World Report

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in job search | No Comments »

The Strangest Things Job Seekers Have Done to Get Hired

Wednesday, February 17th, 2016

When it comes to getting the attention of potential employers, being a little out there can be a good thing – but a little goes a long way. Here are four do’s and don’ts for job seekers hoping to stand out for the right reasons.

There’s “crazy good” – and then there’s just plain crazy. When it comes to getting the attention of potential employers, being a little out there can be a good thing, but a little goes a long way, as some candidates have found out the hard way. A recent study about unusual job seeker efforts to stand apart, conducted among 1,078 hiring managers, makes it clear that some job seekers don’t know where to draw the line between getting noticed – and getting notoriety.

When asked for their accounts of job seekers’ most off-the-wall stunts, hiring managers didn’t hold back. These were the best of the best (err – worst of the worst?). You be the judge):

The candidate…

  1. …found out where the hiring manager was having dinner and picked up the tab.
  2. …lit a corner of their resume on fire to show their “burning desire” for the job.
  3. …had a cake delivered to the hiring manager with the words “Congratulations! [candidate’s name] got the job!”
  4. …answered a call during the interview stating that another company was calling to discuss a job offer.
  5. …sat on the floor during the interview and asked the hiring manager to take a picture of him with the company mascot.
  6. …tried to impress the hiring manager with the history of the business, which was incorrect.
  7. …had her resume gift-wrapped.
  8. …showed pictures of their relatives working at the company many years prior.
  9. …acted like a game show host.
  10. …brought a bag of props into the interview and pulled them out as they were relevant in the questions/answers.
  11. …sent the hiring manager a coupon for free meal.
  12. …had his daughter call the hiring manager in advance of the interview to thank the hiring manager “for giving her dad a job.”

Clever — or cloying?

Hiring managers gave a mixed bag of reactions when it came to whether they thought job seekers’ off-the-wall tactics were effective.

On one hand, candidates should get props for trying to stand apart among the sometimes hundreds of others vying for the same position. Unfortunately, “props” don’t necessarily equate to employment.

As one hiring manager advised – candidates are wise to focus more on making sure their skills and experience are up to par than on whether that “I love ABC Company” tattoo will land them the job:

“While these tactics may succeed in impressing hiring managers, what ultimately determines if they get the job is having the necessary skills and experience hiring managers are looking for.”

So how can you as a candidate get smarter about your own methods for standing out – and get real, positive attention for your efforts?

Here are four suggested do’s and don’ts for job seekers hoping to stand out for all the right reasons:

  1. DON’T confuse pestering with persistence. Most hiring managers don’t mind –and even appreciate – a follow up phone call or email, as it indicates enthusiasm and initiative. Bombarding the hiring manager with phone calls or emails, however, can come across as desperate, annoying or even creepy.
  2. DO know your audience. What charms one hiring manager may turn another off. You can’t always predict what will work for one company and what won’t. Just keep in mind, however, that a company that doesn’t appreciate your unique line of thinking might not be the company that’s right for you.
  3. DON’T overthink it. Sometimes the simplest approach is the best approach. Many of the hiring managers we surveyed were blown away when a candidate sent a handwritten thank you note.
  4. DO keep your eyes on the prize. Don’t let your unusual approach distract from what you’re really trying to do: Sell your skills and qualifications. Even when trying an unusual approach, tie it back to your skills and why you are qualified for the job.

So shine on, you (not too) crazy diamond – and best of luck in landing that next job.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Interview, job search, resume writing | No Comments »

4 Ways To Make Your Job Search Suck Less

Thursday, October 15th, 2015

OK, I know what you’re thinking—it’s impossible to make the job search process suck less. After all, job searching is not a traditionally “fun” process. In fact, words that more likely come to mind are stressful, tedious and hard-to-predict.

And I’ll admit that some parts of the job search process are pure torture (cough, waiting to hear back, cough). But, there are many ways to balance it out with memorable experiences. In the same way you have learned to make other “unenjoyable” activities like, say, exercise or networking less-dreaded; applying for a new position can also be energizing and impactful.

Here are four ways to make looking for a new job more fun—or, at the very least, less awful.

1. Be Open To Anything

Whether your search is focused on a single dream job or a specific industry, giving yourself space to look around may uncover interesting positions you had never considered. So, instead of brushing that intriguing listing off, take the time to consider it.

Imagine that you were initially focused on jobs at larger corporations because you love benefits and paid holidays, but then you stumbled upon a couple of exciting startups that could support your goals and fit with your qualifications. So, you take the time to explore this route by simply reaching out to someone at the company and learning more about the position.

Worst case scenario: It’s a networking disaster and you don’t even finish your coffee. More likely scenario: You’ve made a new connection, gotten away from your computer screen, learned about a new opportunity and hopefully made your search less stressful by realizing that there isn’t just one job out there for you.

2. Use Tools You Enjoy

Every person brings unique skills to his or her job search. Maybe you have incredible people skills or maybe you’re an amazing writer. These talents can help you, but too often people think applying to a job has to be a mind-numbing process.

Think about it this way: When a people person is stuck behind a computer screen punching out resumes and sending emails, she can easily resent the experience. However, if the same person were to get her name out there by attending networking events and local workshops, her interest level would immediately increase. The same goes for the talented designer who loathes mingling but could create a truly unique application.

So, use the tools for job searching that match your strengths and interests. If you enjoy one-on-one conversations, set up informational interviews. If you love tech and innovation, build a personal website that shows off your background. Utilizing skills you enjoy will make the process more fun—and help you make the most of your time.

3. Re-Invent Yourself

Maybe you’ve been taking the approach of doing what you know best and you haven’t tracked down any new leads. Well, now is the time to shake things up. Re-invention is one of the more exciting parts of any change—career or otherwise.

Just as exercise can transform you physically and mentally, the job search can similarly challenge people to become the best version of themselves. Speaking to strangers, marketing yourself and writing persuasive emails are all chances to embody a more confident demeanor and communicate at a higher level.

If the job search is starting to discourage you, mix things up by re-inventing yourself. For example, you could change your LinkedIn profile or resume to present your story in a different way. Or, you could watch top speakers and emulate their tone and delivery to become more comfortable at networking events.

When you challenge yourself to master new techniques and capture the boldest and most charismatic parts of your personality, the job search becomes much more than looking for a job. It becomes about personal and professional growth.

4. Treat Yourself

Ultimately, searching for a new position can open the door to new opportunities, friends and choices. So, accept the highs and lows of the process and focus on progress at each stage, including vulnerabilities you’ve challenged and uncomfortable situations you’ve survived.

Make it more rewarding by treating yourself in small ways for staying on track. For example, take a break after an intensive round of interviews, make time for a hobby after a full day of applying or see your favorite band at the end of the month. These mini-celebrations will pace the journey and provide things to look forward to when things aren’t going your way.

The ultimate reward, of course, is landing a thrilling job at a company that is equally as excited to have you. When you do, the new opportunity will be well worth the grueling process.

Finding a new job is usually a challenging process, but it can also present opportunities for memorable stories, discovery and personal and professional growth. And the fun is there, too—if you dig a little deeper.

Original from The Daily Muse.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in job search | No Comments »

How To Land Job Offers In A New City (Without Having To Move First)

Wednesday, September 30th, 2015

As graduation was looming, my client Jane was increasingly stressed out. She hired me to help her land job offers in Germany, without having to move there first. She just didn’t feel that she could move overseas without having any job prospects – a challenge she found intimidating.

According to a recent study, 59% of millennials would be willing to move to a foreign country for a job. This may be due to the challenges this demographic has faced in trying to find post-college employment, but it may also relate to the fact that this generation is very culturally and politically engaged. Regardless of whether you are hoping to find employment abroad or in a city a few states away, there are more people than ever searching for jobs from a distance.

If you count yourself in that statistic, you’re probably wondering: How do I land job offers in a new city without moving there first?

Here are some tips to help you in your long-distance job search.

1. List a local address if you have family there. You can’t lie on your resume, but if you have family or close friends in the area, why not use it to your advantage? It helps for recruiters to see on your resume that you’re accessible, as they often weed resumes out when the job seeker shows a non-local address. And considering the average job relocation costs businesses $71,786 per move, you don’t want to give employers any extra reasons to think twice before hiring you. That said, never lie. Don’t provide an address if it’s not somewhere you would legitimately stay for an extended period if you got the job.

2. Identify the companies you want to work for. Know where you want to work — don’t let the job search sites tell you. While many big cities lead with different industries (i.e. politics in Washington, D.C., banking in London, tech in San Francisco), focus more on the function you want to perform and use that to help identify the best companies for you. For example, do you want to do marketing, communications, or perhaps financial analysis? Use tools such as Linkedin’s advanced search function to enter keywords that help you see who is using those skills in jobs that exist in your city of choice. Take note of the profiles that interest you, and use them as a platform to come up with a list of companies that you’re inspired by.

3. Find two points of contact in each company. After you’re clear on which companies inspire you, it’s key to find out who handles HR and who your potential boss would be in the company. While HR doesn’t have as much power as the hiring manager (your potential boss), it’s good to be on HR’s radar. This is another great opportunity to use Linkedin— figure out who is in charge, and get comfortable with the advanced search function. Considering 89% of recruiters have hired employees through this tool, it’s also critical that you establish your Linkedin presence and use it to your advantage.

4. Cold email your points of contact for a phone conversation. Once you’ve identified who you want to meet, don’t wait around for an introduction. Send emails to your potential boss, requesting a quick call due to how inspired you are by them and their work. Buy a phone number on Skype that has the same country code so that you don’t overwhelm people when providing your number. Always list times for the phone call in their local time. In short, email them because you’re inspired—not because you want a favor—and always make it easy for them.

5. Just say yes if a big interview happens. As Sheryl Sandberg would say: “if you’re offered a seat on a rocket ship, get on, don’t ask what seat.” Make this your motto. When an opportunity comes, don’t sabotage it by agonizing over logistics or getting caught up in details that don’t matter yet. Just say “yes,” and pony up for the cost of airfare if the company doesn’t offer to cover the cost… Especially if your resume has that local city address you borrowed from family or friends. Even when the interview doesn’t lead to an offer, you’re positioning yourself for more opportunities throughout your career simply by creating this habit of saying “yes” to the opportunities you’re dreaming about. This sort of commitment is not for the faint-hearted.

If you go into the job hunt believing you have to “take what you can get,” you’ll get the bottom of the barrel.

I remember how certain Jane was that she would never be able to make the move actually happen. In fact, she was concerned about landing any job, anywhere – let alone landing a job she actually wanted in a city she actually wanted to be in.

But inner shifts create outer results, which is why it is so important that you believe in the possibility of landing the job you want, where you want it. Helping Jane change her mindset was the first step in creating that shift in her own life, and it sent ripples of possibility in every direction: Jane got multiple job offers in Frankfurt, which is exactly where she wanted to move.

Touch base with your heart. Do you know it’s possible? I do…and so do countless others like Jane who have turned their most ambitious dreams into fulfilling realities.

Original from Forbes, by Ashley Stahl.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in job search | No Comments »

Turning Your Resume Into An Effective Sales Pitch

Thursday, December 4th, 2014

Applying for a job isn’t easy. Not only do you have to decide “WHERE” to send your resume; you also have to worry about how you’re going to present it. True, you may have some experience writing resumes in the past, probably gleaned from a quick lesson in college or a sample provided by a colleague, but for most people all their resume really amounts to is just a glorified list of past responsibilities. And that just isn’t going to cut it.

Fact is, your resume writing skills probably need some updating. Because these days, it’s no longer enough to just mention that you went to a prestigious school, have an MBA, or that you won a couple of competitions. To compete in the 21st century job market, it’s all about transforming that document from a “boring list of duties” into a sales pitch to wow and amaze employers and make them want to invest in YOU.

Because let’s face it, when it comes to employers, when you initially apply for a position, you’re not even really a human being; you’re nothing more than a number, a Word document imported into some Application Tracking Software. Just another email, just another two pages with margins too small and all the same words as the next.

Which isn’t to say that you coming from a prestigious university isn’t going to help. But unless you graduated with honors and made a lot of connections while going to school, you’re not always guaranteed to get a job just from your degree, especially if everyone else you’re competing with has the same degree from the same place as you.

To succeed, to land those truly amazing roles that will advance your career, your resume needs to be something more, to stand out from the rest… and it needs to work fast, just like a sales pitch, to get your foot in the door and make the employer want to learn more.

Unfortunately, saying that you should turn your resume into a sales pitch is easier said than done. It’s not like you just put “For Sale” at the top and send it to a couple of employers and wait for their response. No, that’s not how it works. You need to start thinking like a salesperson, no matter what your discipline.

Thinking Like a Salesperson

So at this point, as indicated above, your resume is probably just a glorified list of all the duties you’ve had and the places you went to school, probably with an objective at the top which, sadly, is telling the employer what you want from them, rather than what you can offer them.

To break away from this outdated way of doing things, you need to look at yourself as a product and sell yourself the right way. So while it’s important for any product to list its ingredients (background), that generally isn’t how it will market itself to potential customers.

To do this, you must visualize your resume as something like a sales flier. Fliers are designed to appeal to the eye, both graphically and informationally, and to do so they generally don’t put in every bit of information about a product. They just include what is most likely to gain the attention of readers, with the most relevant information first. Your resume, then, should immediately give an employer the right impression and show just what you can offer right up front, with the finer details better explored elsewhere (in interviews, for example).

Remember, employers are largely unconcerned with who you are, especially at this stage; what they care about is what you can offer them and their business. And they generally don’t have a lot of time to determine this.

Try putting yourself in the shoes of a potential employer and dissect your background, choosing those elements that best exemplify your suitability for the job and the company. This isn’t always easy and may require research into the company’s style, work culture, history, and products. And you will have to decide how to frame your achievements in such a way as to objectively relate how your “product” is truly what an employer is looking for.

You can also think of your resume as a kind of “pre-interview”, only in written form. And much like in interviews, the less you talk about personal stuff and the more you focus on your best selling points, the more active and engaging the whole process will be.

This should help to give you an idea of what a resume should be, how it should be framed. In summary, it should be a concise document that quickly and effectively sells your background for a particular role and company, keys in on your best achievements and most relevant skills, and stands out to catch the eye of potential employers.

What Your Resume Shouldn’t Be

To help reinforce the above ideas, it will also help to consider some examples of what a resume should not be.

There is a common misconception (perpetuated by resume-writing books and university career guidance centers) that a resume should either be a mere list of accolades and past work history (like what’s discussed above) or a biography. But if you speak to employers and HR managers, you’ll quickly learn that it’s neither.

Your resume may be about you and may contain personal information, but it’s NOT personal. Don’t go using a lot of personal pronouns and having it read like a personal statement for a college application. And it’s NOT a thesis or a dissertation. So not only should you avoid getting too personal (including lists of hobbies, photos, and anecdotes), but you must also avoid the tendency to go on for too long, as you might for a college term paper. Length does not earn you bonus points.

Your resume shouldn’t be an exhaustive list. If you spent a few summers helping walk dogs when you were a teenager, while it might count as a job, the hiring manager reading your resume isn’t going to be interested in that when you’re applying for an engineering role at Lockheed. Keep it relevant and on point.

You must also avoid the trap of believing your resume is the key to landing a job, because it’s not. You are actually writing the resume to get an interview! It’s the interview that will get you the job. So, when you’re writing your resume, don’t try to cram everything that an employer might ever want or need to know. Rather, one step at a time: you’re looking for the employer to see just enough to want to learn more and that will earn you the in-person interview where you’ll truly be able to shine.

Just like your resume should not be a laundry list, it should also not be a shopping list. The old style of putting an objective at the top and transforming your resume into a list of things that you want to buy rather than what you have to sell is one quick way of landing your resume in the trash. Why should an employer be interested in your career aspirations? And seriously, why would you want that to be the first thing an employer reads, especially if they will likely only give you 10 seconds of their time to scan your resume, if even that?

Beyond the Resume

So, you know what to avoid (laundry lists and shopping lists) and you know what to include (a sales pitch that quickly grabs attention and focuses on your best qualities and what you have to offer an employer). If you utilize these tips, do your homework, and present yourself well, you should be able to land interviews.

But if you get rejected, don’t take it personally; it happens to everyone. If you have prepared and done your best, just take it as a sign that the product you’re selling isn’t what they’re looking for and move on to the next role.

And remember that the resume is just the first step to get your foot in the door. Make sure that you deliver, too!

After all, a killer resume would be a waste if you blow the interview.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in resume writing | No Comments »

To Whom It May Concern: No One Is Reading Your Cover Letter

Thursday, October 30th, 2014

To whom it may concern: your cover letter probably isn’t being read, especially if you’re starting it with “To whom it may concern.”

Many recruiters never read the cover letter, of course. However, unless you are told not to include one, cover letters are a job search must do.

Here are three things to consider when creating a winning cover letter.

The basics: customize your cover letter

Whether it’s a human or a computer reading your cover letter, including key words from the job posting will show the reader that you’ve done your homework. Be sure to clearly state the position you are applying for, the main skills required for the position and how your work experience demonstrates that you possess those skills.

To really impress the reader, research the company and include one or two facts about the business that relate to the position you’re applying for (for example, “I read in Canadian Business that you won the XYZ Award for the best creative marketing campaign last month”).

A cover letter offers the opportunity to directly address the reader, so if it’s not listed on the job posting, use your resources (Google, LinkedIn, a telephone) to find out who you need to address your letter to. To go the next step, make sure that your application lands in their inbox.

The content: honesty is the best policy

Forbes recently published an article about a cover letter that Wall Street bosses are calling “the best cover letter ever.”

In the letter, a summer internship applicant writes, “I won’t waste your time inflating my credentials…The truth is I have no unbelievable special skills or genius eccentricities, but I do have a near perfect GPA and will work hard for you.”

Such upfront honesty won’t work for every industry, but this internship applicant was rewarded for avoiding a common cover letter downfall — the tendency to exaggerate your qualifications.

Inflating your skill set by using vocabulary that’s outside of your everyday language makes a cover letter awkward to read and difficult to write. To create a cover letter that’s professional, yet conversational, don’t use two words where one would work and don’t use a 10-cent word where a two-cent word will do.

Above and beyond: when to craft a creative cover letter

A creative cover letter alternative must be of professional quality and must highlight your skills as they apply to the job you are competing for.

For example, instead of writing a traditional cover letter for a corporate communications position, you could create a media kit about yourself including a press release, a fact sheet and your resume. At the very least, it may increase your chances of landing an interview.

If you’re willing to go the extra mile to craft a creative cover letter, know the industry you want to work in, be professional and use common sense. A poorly executed YouTube video probably won’t get you an interview for an accounting position. However, a well-made website might put your resume on top of the pile for a digital media position.

Do you think cover letters are becoming extinct? Have you had a successful creative cover letter experience? Let us know in the comments below.

Tags: ,
Posted in resume writing | No Comments »

Writing a Resume for an International Job

Thursday, July 24th, 2014

Professionals of all ages are seeking careers outside their home countries for a variety of professional and personal reasons: the need to recharge their batteries with a new challenge, the opportunity to have a position with more responsibility that encourages creativity and initiative (and typically leads to a promotion), the wish to expose their children to another culture and a second language, and the recognition that many of those at the top of the corporate ladder have leap-frogged ahead after a global work experience.

There are no hard and fast rules for putting together a resume for an international job. Best advice: do your homework. Find out what is appropriate vis-a-vis the corporate culture, the country culture, and the person making the hiring decision. The challenge is to incorporate several different cultures into one document.

Some General Advice

  • The terms “resume” and “CV” (curriculum vitae) generally mean the same thing the world over: a document describing one’s educational and professional experience that is prepared for job-hunting purposes. A CV is typically a lengthier version of a resume, sometimes with numerous attachments. Note: The average length for a resume or CV is two pages—no matter the country, no matter the position. Never, ever try to “get around the rules” by shrinking your font size to an unreadable level or printing your resume on the front and back sides of one piece of paper. Never “stretch” your resume to two pages but also never sell yourself short by limiting yourself to one page.
  • Different countries use different terms to describe the information that a resume should contain. For example, “cover letters” are called “letters of interest” in some countries and “motivation letters” in others. Photographs are not appropriate attachments to resumes in the U.S.; however, in many countries outside the U.S., it is standard procedure to attach a photo or have your photo printed on your resume.
  • Education requirements differ country to country. In almost every case of “cross-border” job hunting, merely stating the title of your degree is not an adequate description. If you are a recent graduate and depending heavily upon your educational background to get a job, provide the reader with details about your studies and any related experience. The same advice applies to seasoned professionals who have participated in numerous training or continuing education courses: provide the reader with specific information on what you learned, the number of course hours, etc. Your university training becomes only “a line item” on your resume (i.e., no further details needed) once you have five or more years of professional experience.
  • If you have specific training, education, or expertise, use industry-accepted terminology in your description: language and terms that any professional in your field would understand, no matter where in the world he or she lives.
  • Pay particular attention to write your resume in the correct chronological order. Where there are no specific guidelines, the general preference is a reverse-chronological format.
  • The level of computer technology and accessibility to the Internet varies widely country to country. Always be sure to email your resume as an attachment and in a widely accepted format, such as Word. And always send a hard copy via “snail mail” just to make sure it is received.
  • Computer skills and language skills are always important, no matter the job, no matter the country. Take care to describe your skill levels in detail in both categories.
  • If you are submitting your resume in English, find out if the recipient uses British English or American English. A reader who is unfamiliar with the variations just presumes that the resume contains typos. Most European companies use British English. Almost every computer today provides you with both options.
  • Spellcheck, spellcheck, spellcheck, then get a human being to spellcheck your resume. Human resource professionals the world over assume that if you submit a sloppy, careless resume you will be a sloppy, careless worker. Take the time to double-check the correct title, gender, and spelling of the name of the recipient of your resume. Jan is a woman’s name in the U.S. and a man’s name in Europe.
  • If you can, get someone who is a native speaker of the language in which your resume is written to review your document. One goal of your resume is to show your familiarity with the culture by using culturally-appropriate language. Anything else just highlights that you may not be a candidate who can “hit the ground running.”
  • Be aware that paper sizes are different dimensions in different countries. When you are transmitting your resume via email, go to “Page Setup” on your computer and reformat your document to the recipient’s standard. Otherwise, when they print it out half of your material will be missing. The same is true for sending a fax. If at all possible, purchase paper that has the same dimensions as the recipient’s and mail/fax your resume on that paper.
  • Most multinational companies will expect you to speak both the language of that country and English, which is accepted today as the universal language of business. Draft your resume in both languages and be prepared for your interview to be conducted in both languages.
  • The safest way to ensure that your document is “culturally correct” is to review as many examples as possible. Ask the employer or recruiter for examples of resumes that they thought were particularly good.

Work permit and visa regulations tend to be similar country to country: Most employers who want to hire “foreigners,” “aliens,” or “expatriates” must be able to certify to the government that they were unable to find locals with the required skill sets. The fastest way to be hired abroad is either to actively seek a country where there is a shortage of people with your skills or to be an “intra-company” transfer from another country. Be aware that obtaining a work permit can take many, many months.

Finally, to be successful and enjoy your experience abroad you must be flexible and open-minded, both eager and willing to learn new ways of doing things. To hold fast to your own cultural traditions, even when they offend others or render you ineffective, is a waste of everyone’s time. People everywhere appreciate individuals who are interested in getting to know them. Cultural faux pas are forgiven of individuals who are making well-meaning attempts to fit in; on the other hand, arrogant know-it-alls can sink million-dollar deals just by their attitudes. Be patient and observant. Ask questions. Show your interest in learning and broadening your understanding. Be aware that you represent your country to everyone you meet.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in resume writing | No Comments »

10 Tips for Writing an Entry-Level Resume

Thursday, May 22nd, 2014

Unfortunately, many career centers have misinformed new graduates regarding what a resume should look and sound like. As a result, entry-level resumes tend to be plagued by bland resume formats and poorly-written, outdated objective statements.

Instead, as a young professional, your resume should communicate how you can assist the employer with meeting their needs; it must help the employer see your value by telling them exactly how the company will benefit from hiring you.

How can you do that? Here are ten tips to get you started:

1. Include a Fact-and-Figure-Based Introduction

Fight the temptation to include generic and broad-based objective statements that can apply to a multitude of job seekers. Instead, in five to eight bullets, use facts, figures, metrics, and examples from your work experience to show your value and potential.

2. Maximize Your Experience.

It’s effortless and looks streamlined, but listing only your previous employers and job titles on your entry-level resume can leave potential employers not only unimpressed, but also wondering what exactly you did.

Add two or three bullet points for each position on your entry-level resume, detailing a few of your primary (and most impressive) responsibilities in the order that they apply to the position you’re seeking. You can also include volunteer work on your resume if it shows necessary skills. You’ll expand your credentials while also tailoring your experience to fit the job. However…

3. Do NOT Just List Your Responsibilities

Yes, it’s good to give the employer an idea of what your general duties and responsibilities were, but it’s also very effective to show them what you accomplished and what you can bring to the table. How did you go above and beyond expectations? Quantify whenever possible.

4. Use Their Language.

Incorporating words or phrases from a job listing into your entry-level resume is a great way to catch prospective employers’ eyes. If they’re looking for a “hard-working team player,” you might mention in your resume that you thrive in “team” environments and throw yourself into “hard work.” You’ll leave your employers musing that they couldn’t have said it better themselves.

5. Show Your Range.

“Past experiences” on your entry-level resume can include more than just previous jobs.

Detailing your proficiency in other areas, like specific computer programs or foreign languages, can add a lot of value to your entry-level resume. Even highlighting unrelated but important extracurricular activities on your resume can reflect your commitment to a goal – plus, you never know when an employer might bond with you over a shared love of water-skiing!

6. Add Testimonials

Another great way to give your resume veteran appeal is to include testimonials. This is still a relatively new concept and is something hiring managers may be pleasantly surprised to see. So take this opportunity to add about two or three very short quotes from an old boss, former professors, or other influential people in your field. This approach not only works as a great resume filler but helps make you that much more desirable as a candidate.

7. Incorporate Awards And Recognitions

If you’ve received awards or recognition in your short career span, don’t be shy about listing them. It’s great to be recognized for your accomplishments—and even better when an employer looks upon them favorably and even considers hiring you as a result.

Just because you’re getting your foot in the door at the entry-level doesn’t mean you’re not highly qualified for the job you want. So take time to really think about your accomplishments to date and how they make you an amazingly appealing candidate.

8. Avoid Common Mistakes

No matter how many times it’s repeated, 80% of all resumes are submitted with glaring typos. So, let’s say it again:

  • Proofread the resume
  • Get a second or third opinion
  • Don’t use the personal pronoun “I”
  • Don’t refer to yourself in the third person

9. Put Some Thought Into Your Brand

Consider how you want to brand your resume visually and verbally. Think about how each one of these should reflect you as a candidate, and be strategic about your resume choices. Choose a format that presents you as a professional—not unqualified and unprofessional. Just because you are an entry-level candidate does not mean your resume has to look basic and boring.

10. Sell Yourself!

When writing an entry-level resume, you might not have the experience that other positions require, but you don’t have to apologize or sell yourself short. Even if you can list only a couple of past accomplishments on your entry-level resume, you can describe the skills you’ll bring to future positions.

Remember these tips and strategies when writing your resume, and you’ll have a much better success rate winning interviews!

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in resume writing | No Comments »

Job Search Expenses: What Can be Deducted

Thursday, March 27th, 2014

A client walks into an accountant’s office for help with an audit of his income tax return. “They’re disallowing all of my job search expenses. And I swear, I only took those trips to find work. Okay, there might have been a little bit of personal time, you know, vacation, mixed in, but it was mostly to find a job.”

Here’s his story: He retired many years ago but his pension shriveled when the economy tanked and his wife who had been working full time was forced to cut back due to health issues. To help make ends meet, he had to rejoin the workforce. His job hunt cost about $4,000, and he deducted it on his tax return on Schedule A Itemized Deductions as a miscellaneous deduction.

Everything looked in order. The primary purpose of the trips was to get a job, and he had receipts to prove the deductions. He also had all the miscellaneous paperwork to substantiate his purpose – resume, business cards and correspondence to and from prospective employers. He was not able to get a new job; employers told him he was too old. But according to the rules, job-search expenses are deductible even if employment is never achieved. So why was he getting audited?

The bad news is that one of the rules to qualify for the deduction is that, according to the IRS, “there cannot be a substantial break between the ending of your last job and your looking for a new one.”

This is just one of three basic rules:

  1. You can’t deduct expenses for a job search if you are looking for a job in a new occupation. So if you were a shoe salesman and you just finished your nursing degree and are now applying for nursing positions, you’re on your own with covering expenses.
  2. You cannot deduct expenses for a job search if you are looking for a job for the very first time.
  3. There cannot be a substantial break between the ending of your last job and your search for a new one.

Let’s say you are looking for work and you qualify to deduct the expenses, here’s what you may deduct:

  • Employment and outplacement agency fees. If you get the job and an employer reimburses you for the fees, you must declare that amount as income
  • Resume preparation expenses including postage and overnight mail charges
  • Fees you pay each year to keep a license active
  • Travel and transportation expenses – keep a mileage log. Note that travel expenses include any laundry or dry cleaning bills racked up while you’re on the road
  • Meals and lodging while away from home. Keep your receipts or use the per diem cited on the IRS website for the cities you visit
  • Education expenses to improve or maintain skills in your present occupation

These are the basic categories of expense but the list in not all-inclusive. The IRS allows any expense that is considered “ordinary and necessary,” as well as legal.

In other words, bribing a person to hire you is considered an illegal activity, and the deduction will not be allowed. But hiring someone to revamp your resume or a career coach to help you manage your job search will be.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in job search, resume writing | No Comments »

Why Won’t They Hire Me?

Thursday, March 6th, 2014

You’ve applied for every job out there, and no one is getting back to you. Why? Who cursed you with this jobless existence?

It may actually be you. Yes, for all your activities, your strategies, and your button clicking, at the heart of it all, you might be the cause of your own job search fail. How can you be sure? I’ve compiled a list of the most common mistakes people make when applying for a job. Make sure you’re not falling for one of these classic job search blunders:

1: Typos!

The number one biggest mistake people make (and one of the easiest to avoid) when applying for jobs is having typos on their resumé. No matter what the job is, no one wants to hire someone who doesn’t even use spell check. Or even worse, if you’ve made a grammatical error that leads to a humorous misunderstanding (example: occupation – internet booger instead of blogger); that’s just awful. It’s not the end of the world, of course, if you spell your own name wrong on your C.V. It is if you then send it out to everyone, however. Just spend two or three minutes proofreading what you’ve written. If you’re unsure, get a friend to look at it for you or leave it to the professionals.

2: Not having an online presence or having a bad one.

If you’re applying for high-end jobs, potential employers are going to want to know as much about you as possible. If they make a quick search on Google and they can’t find you, it won’t look good. They want to see for themselves the work you have done in the past and what you’re capable of. Some ideas for getting your online presence rolling: set up a LinkedIn account and create profiles on freelance and industry websites.

On the other hand, if your potential employer looks you up and finds a picture of you hitting a bong, it’s going to be even worse than having no presence at all. By all means, post your social life online, but make sure it’s private. It should be just for your close friends. Facebook allows you to view your profile as a member of the public would see it. You should definitely try this out, so you can see what potential employers see and make sure you’re not revealing more about yourself to them than you might want.

3: Using an informal email address.

No matter the situation, you should always have a professional email address for use on your resumé. If you were hiring, would you pick “John.Doe” or “iLikeCars93” or “fluffybunnies”? Choose something with your name in it and if you need to include numbers, select the year of your birth or graduation from college (i.e., george.hamilton1990@gmail.com).

4: Not following instructions.

When you’re reading so many job descriptions because you’re busy applying for everything on the internet, you probably don’t read each of them thoroughly; you’re likely just skimming before applying. However, you should always read each description all the way to the end. Often there will be instructions included, sometimes just to check to be sure you’ve actually read it! Employers won’t want to hire someone for a job who can’t even follow the simple instructions to apply for it.

5: Focusing solely on jobs posted online.

It’s incredibly convenient having all those jobs available there on one page (whether Monster or CareerBuilder or one of the aggregate search engines like Indeed), saving you the effort of wandering from place to place just to be rejected. However, it isn’t perfect. There are plenty of places hiring that don’t put their jobs up on the internet: some prefer face-to-face interviews straight away; some just don’t want the hassle of receiving and sorting through thousands of random responses like yours. You might be missing some great opportunities if you stick only to the online job boards. Branch out: seek referrals from people already working at a company or reach out to hiring managers directly at places that don’t seem to be hiring… you may be surprised by the roles on offer.

6: Failing to ask questions in an interview.

We’ve all been there: they ask if you have any questions at the end of the interview and you have no idea what to say. Or you just don’t want to make a fool of yourself by asking a stupid question. So you wing it: “no, I don’t have any questions”. The problem here is that you seem uninterested and uninformed. You want your future employer to be interested in you, and yet you don’t seem to be interested enough in the job or the company to ask questions about them! Have a few good questions prepared in advance about the role, the company, etc. so they know you’ve been doing your homework.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in job search, resume writing | No Comments »

« Older Entries