Over the years, I receive typical questions regarding career management collateral. For a few, let’s get to one of the most common…
Questions
What’s hot in resume writing, what are some musts that should be included on a resume? What are some new tricks of the trade and methods that can help set you apart? In addition to work experience, what else should be included to make it stand out? Professional certifications or education credentials? New computer/software skills? Training? How important are all of those to making a resume stand out?
What’s hot in resume writing, what are some musts that should be included on a resume?
Resume development is much like home construction: tools of the trade are required. Without tools, a frame can not be built. Frame defines the value YOU offer and this MUST be including on your resume in the first round of action.
Reflecting to a cliché of sorts, Tom Cruise stated “show me the money” several years ago. And so, the same stands true with your resume and cover letter; the concept of showing a bottom-line effect is a key ingredient to success.
Think about it, why do employers seek candidates? Typically for two reasons:
1. Increase revenue
2. Decrease costs
Your resume MUST entice the reader to make contact by delivering on (at least) one of the two reasons mentioned.
In other words employers hire not for charitable reasons, but for selfish reasons. Your job at hand is to stand out from the pile upon pile of applicants by showing (and confirming) your value and immediate impact. To do this, a frame of reference needs to be established quickly. Frames of reference include (though not all inclusive):
- Added Value/Unique Characteristics or Skill
- Career History
- Educational Background/Training
- Relevant Certifications
- Technical Expertise
Frames of reference are the support beams validating your target and confirming your ability to not only gets the job done, but to get the job done in the most cost-effective manner possible.
Are you the right person for the job? Are you representing yourself in an industry-specific manner? Are you creating the right first impression? One has 12 seconds to 15 seconds to “show value,” are you? Take a look at your material and answer the above questions honestly.
How important are all of those to making a resume stand out?
Like a house without a proper foundation, marketing material without appropriate frames will fall from lack of support. Standing out from the piles of peers is not an easy task but can be accomplished. Keep checking out WON and the keys to developing your resume will continue to be shared. In the interim, if you have any questions or comments, do not hesitate to ask.
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.
