Is It Resumé Tune-Up Time?

Last month, I talked with you about “Networking: Turning Small Talk into Positive Business-Talk.” Since then, a lot has happened and you've, no doubt, been on the go! You're becoming a networking machine! You've learned to turn small talk into Positive Business-Talk...So, let me ask you, what's next?

Did you know that most career moves come about through networking? What if your next career move is only a phone call away? Are your resumé and cover letter ready? Are you confident with the application and interviewing process?

Whether you're a recent graduate looking for your first job or a seasoned pro, your resumé, cover letter and interviewing skills hold the keys to opening new doors.

We know there are no guarantees in this world, especially when it comes to employment these days. Do you remember the book, “Working Without a Net?” (If not, it’s a must read!) One of the tips in the book was having your resumé ready-to-go at all times.

We hear a lot about down-sizing, right-sizing, and wrong-sizing in organizations almost every week. No matter if your position has recently been eliminated, if you are looking to make a voluntary career change or even if you are content with your current position, you need to be ready for the next step.

During the course of my career, I’ve made several industry and position changes – some that I found and chose to make and those other unexpected changes that found me! In any event, I learned quickly how important it was to have my resume ready. On a regular basis, I made it a regular habit to update my resume to include new skills learned, changes in responsibilities, education, training, etc. Even now, as an entrepreneur, my resume is current and can be used as a marketing tool to showcase my career history and experience which lends great credibility for my current work in the consulting business.

Along the journey, I’ve come into contact with thousands, yes, thousands, of resumés! Over the years, as a retail bank branch manager, corporate recruiter and manager of a national temporary help service office, it was amazing how easily the well-done resumes and cover letters jumped out ahead of the pack.

It’s important to remember that your resume is a snapshot of your career – an at-a-glance view of your education, experience, skills, talents and community service. An effective cover letter and resume will get your foot in the door; ineffective ones will get tossed into cyberspace or the circular file!

Here are a few simple resume tips to keep in mind:

• List and present all information in a professional manner on quality paper (not standard copy machine paper)
• Proofread for spelling errors, typos and grammatical errors – use Word tools to help you.
• Be sure that employment dates, responsibilities and education information are accurate.
• Gaps in employment happen to everyone…Be honest about them and ready to explain them.
• Keep it simple! Be concise in explaining duties and responsibilities; give enough information to show you have what it takes, but brief enough for the interviewer to want to learn more about you.
• For seasoned professionals, a two-page resumé may be fine, if well-constructed.
• Have a separate sheet ready noting two or three professional references – It’s no longer necessary to list “References Available Upon Request” on the actual resumé.
• Prepare an effective cover letter - either general or specific – using the same paper as you did for your resumé (also use matching envelopes).
• Include salary requirements or salary history only if requested.

Congratulations! Your resumé was terrific and you’ve been called for an interview! If it’s been awhile since you’ve interviewed or if you’re just not comfortable with the interview process, it can be a bit overwhelming. With proper preparation and a few interviews, you’ll present your best and be well on your way to landing a new position.

Here are some general interviewing tips to get you focused and on track:

• Prepare in advance – Knowledge is power!
• Be familiar with your resumé contents and ready to discuss in more depth (Bring along an extra copy)
• Invest in personal business cards – www.vistaprint.com is a great resource for free cards.
• Do your homework - Research the position, the field, industry and, especially, visit the organization’s website for more specific information.
• Practice interviewing with a friend or family member ahead of time.
• Get a good night’s rest!
• Dress professionally, not flashy or trendy – Better to be understated than overstated.
• Turn off your cell phone or other electronic device; better yet, leave it in the car!
• Arrive 10 minutes early and be friendly towards the gatekeeper, your first point of contact (typically a receptionist or administrative assistant).
• SMILE! Speak clearly and concisely.
• Maintain eye contact.
• Be positive, courteous, upbeat and confident (not cocky) – Sell yourself!
• Listen and observe – We were given two ears for a reason!
• Think before responding to a question.
• Thank the interviewer for his/her time.
• Ask about next steps.
• Be sure to send a thank you note to all who interviewed you.

When I was a corporate recruiter, I learned that an applicant’s past behavior was a good predictor of future performance and began using behavioral-based interview questions. A behavioral question asks what people do or have done, not what they think they would do or could do as a theoretical question does. Behavioral-based questions are typically “open-ended” questions that begin with the words “Tell me, describe, how did you, etc.”

Here are a few examples that you might encounter:

• Tell me about a challenge you faced in a previous work situation and how you responded?
• Describe a time when you had to provide constructive feedback to someone who worked with or for you. How did you handle the situation and what was the result?
• Recall a time when you made what you consider a mistake or a bad decision on the job. How did you handle the situation?
• In your most recent position, what did you learn? How did you apply this learning?
• What approaches worked best for you in the past in communicating with your manager? Your co-workers? Your subordinates?

Lastly, prepare a list of thoughtful questions you’d like to ask! Remember, you are interviewing the organization as much as they are interviewing you!

Still not feeling confident? Let me help you make a Positive Impact on your career success! Set an appointment today to refresh your resumé, cover letter and polish your interviewing skills... Mention this article for a special consideration.

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Good luck on your journey! Remember…every end is a new beginning! Stay tuned for next month’s edition…

MJ Paris

P.S. Do you know someone who needs "Positive Energy" in their workplace? Feel free to forward this issue to friends, family and colleagues!

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About MJ

Mary Jane (MJ) Paris brings a broad base of experience in management, leadership and employee development gained from more than 25 years in sales management, retail banking, training, recruiting, project management, event planning and community leadership.
Her common sense approach and practical experience combined with her dynamic presentation skills provide a solid foundation for understanding her client’s needs and challenges.

+ Resumes are a snapshot of your talents, experience, accomplishments and represent Positive Business-Talk about you!

+ They need to be refreshed at least once a year and ready to go at all times!

+ When was the last time you updated your resumé?

+ Don't know where to start? Confused about what needs to be included?
I can help...

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