Brevity, Need, and Value is at the Heart of a Decision

As a professional writer and career coach, I prepared the perfect presentation for the CEO of a multi-national corporation; a 20-page brief supported my request for a $3M budget increase.  He took one look at the stack in my hand and shook his head.  “Come back with one page that gives me everything I need to know.  A paragraph would be better and a short sentence better still.”

A CEO, heck, any decision-maker, is too busy to wade through unnecessary text… especially when it comes to résumés and the selling of a product: YOU.  What are the keys, you ask (and so glad you did)?  Keep your material concise, competency filled, and dedicated to one cause.

The key to making your résumé concise is to remember three things above all else:

•  Decisions are made quickly; hit the target accurately.
•  The hiring agent must fulfill a need without interruption.
•  Your document is not about you, it is about the value you bring.
Open effectively by anticipating questions and crafting your branding statement to provide the right information.  Mike Tyson, known for first-round knock-out victories, mastered the opening.  His aggressive approach is similar to the tone and verbiage required in today’s competitive arena. Going 12 rounds does not work in career management.

Having what it takes is not enough.  Having what it takes, anticipating needs, and showcasing your value quickly gets you through the next round.  Does your résumé have the proper tools to get you beyond round one?  Be honest about what you see and if you would like an objective point of reference, let me know.

If nothing else is gained, remember this: by recognizing the type of information employers are seeking can one take provide the most effective deliverable.

Much like this submission, your marketing material must be quick, hard hitting, and peppered with the contributions you will make, immediately.

Danny Huffman, MA, CEIP, CPRW, CPCC, author, educator, and co-owner of Career Services International/Education Career Services.  He may be reached at [email protected] or visit his Career Blog at www.educationcs.wordpress.com.