Importance of Customizing Your Resume
The importance of customizing your resume has never been clearer. When recruiters and human resource managers sift through piles of resumes and e-mails filled with skills, achievements, and abilities, they are seeking something else. They are searching for a customized resume; they are also searching for a candidate that has taken the time to read the job advertisement.
I recently worked with a client that is currently a college instructor. While he enjoys this work, he must also consider the changing economy and wants to be prepared for potential changes in the next few months. Because of this, we designed two specific resumes: one resume was positioned for education, while the other resume was made for a corporate position.
The differences between the two resumes were clearly evident. The education-based resume became a two-page document and included a list of classes taught, student testimonials, and a brief teaching philosophy. This document became more of a narrative and showcased his teaching ‘story.’ While the education resume also included previous work experience (outside of the teaching industry), this information was concise and less descriptive. When he applies for additional teaching opportunities, most colleges will be looking at previous teaching experience and less at corporate positions.
In contrast, the corporate resume was more business-oriented and concise. This document was designed to appeal to a busy executive that needs to find relevant information quickly. While we included his teaching experience, we concentrated on the accomplishments and achievements in his previous corporate positions.
Did this client need two resumes? YES! Resumes are not a one-size-fit-all endeavor. At minimum, they need to be customized to the industry you are seeking to enter or re-enter. While it may take time to develop two or more different resumes, it makes the job search much easier and gives you leverage over other candidates that are using a cookie-cutter resume approach.
Customize your resume, organize your information, and watch your next job search become more simple and successful!
When I was 16 years old, my first job was working as a bank teller in a bank. At the time, I felt it was important to project professionalism, organizational skills, and attention to detail. This was my first “real job.” And, truth be told, it was one of the best jobs I ever had. The skills I learned at the bank are the same skills I discuss with Feather Communications clients when writing a resume and coaching on interviewing skills.
Not only did I learn to work with people and money, I learned to work as a member of a team. That is one of the best lessons anyone can ever receive from a job. Most importantly, I learned the value of a dollar while working at the bank. I quickly learned that sometime the people you think have a lot of money really have very little. And, just as likely, that person that you thought had little money actually had quite a sum stored in the bank.
Now, I get to continue the lessons I learned while working at the bank. Through various networking events and other marketing, I have been able to increase the exposure for Feather Communications and have met many local business leaders. Because of this networking, I was recently asked to join the Board of Directors for Junior Achievement Northwest District. The mission for Junior Achievement is “Empowering young people to own their economic success.”
Over 19 years later, I have the opportunity of helping to shape Junior Achievement in our area and teaching young people how to develop success skills for the future workplace. While giving back to the community, I am able to teach the lesson that has served me well in life. What a privilege!
It’s the part of the resume and cover letter that many job seekers dread: the salary question. Imagine that the potential job opportunity looks wonderful; the tasks seem to correspond well with your experience, and it’s a company that has a great reputation. Upon further review of the advertisement, you notice the organization would like to know your salary requirements.
As a job seeker, you may find this part of the application process to be troublesome. And, it is true that you certainly do not want to eliminate yourself from consideration based solely upon your salary requirements. However, if you view salary requirements from the employer point-of-view, they do make sense. For example, if an applicant must have a starting salary of $40,000 annually and the position cannot offer more than $30,000, it is best to know that information immediately. It avoids wasting time for both the employee and the employer.
If you are interested in a job opening and do not want to restrict your salary negotiation ability, you need to be very careful when providing this information to the potential employer. I recommend using a variation of the following statement:
As I seek to re-enter the workforce, my salary goal ranges between $30,000 and $35,000 annually. However, these requirements are flexible and I would consider the position, its challenges, opportunity for advancement, and benefits as part of the total compensation package.
A statement like this provides flexibility with negotiating salary requirements and also shows that you are an adaptable employee. This statement above also shows that you can follow the directions in the job advertisement, something that many job applicants may not do when applying for a position.
If the next job you seek asks for a salary requirement, don’t panic. Use an explanation similar to the one in this blog post and the potential employer will know you are serious about the opening within their company.
Giving Back Comes Full Circle
There are many articles that discuss the importance of ‘giving back’ to the community and volunteering time for worthy causes. Sometimes it is difficult to decide which organization to become involved in; furthermore, it seems like all non-profits are constantly seeking active, productive, and involved members.
Much like others, I try to find an organization that fits my values, works with my schedule, and gives back in a meaningful way. When I was a senior in high school, I was honored as the Menomonie Optimist Club Youth of the Month. What did it mean to me at the time? It meant that I received a free breakfast for myself and my parents. It also meant that I received a beautiful plaque that is still housed in my cedar chest.
While that was over 16 years ago, it stayed with me; albeit, in the back of my mind. Last spring, I was approached by a networking contact to join the Menomonie Optimist Club. In contemplating how this was going to fit into my schedule, I began to think back to that morning when I had received my free breakfast and a wooden plaque. It meant a great deal that a local community organization believed in me as a high school senior. And, now, it means a great deal to me that the organization asked me to become part of it.
Now, as a member of the Menomonie Optimist Club, I see the area youth coming to the meetings each month and celebrating their futures. I think back to my morning at the meeting and realize that giving back has come full circle. Now, I have an opportunity to be on the contributing end of the organization and hope those students remember their mornings well into the future.
As part of the Menomonie Optimist Club, I have taken on the responsibility of the monthly newsletter. This is my area of expertise. And, that is how giving back to the community should work; you should be able to use your talents to give back in a meaningful way. There are meetings I cannot make and activities that I can’t do because of my work schedule. The newsletter – that is something I can do. And, the newsletter is e-mailed to many people beyond the organization, increasing the exposure for Feather Communications.
Giving back does come full circle. The circle may take 16 years (or longer) to complete itself. However, when it does, it will give you a gratifying feeling that cannot be taken away.
Asking for Recommendations on LinkedIn
So, you have a LinkedIn profile and it’s ‘out there’ for everyone to see. How can you make your LinkedIn profile more engaging and dynamic? Is there a way to add some sense of ‘importance’ or ‘relevance’ to your skills? If you are interested in making your LinkedIn profile stand out from the rest, I highly suggest asking for recommendations.
Before you ask for recommendations on LinkedIn, think about whom you want to ask. Do you want to ask everyone you know or have ever worked with for an endorsement? Probably not. I recommend making a list of current and former co-workers, supervisors, and customers that can attest to your work ethic, dependability, and work performance. Do not ask all co-workers, all friends, or all suppliers for positive feedback. Be sure to have a variety of endorsements from various viewpoints; this will show potential contacts and employers that you have an ability to work well with a diverse group of people.
And, consider the writing skills of the people you are asking for endorsements. Although you can review the recommendation before it goes public, consider how awkward it may be to have to re-write an endorsement given to you. Also, please realize that some people will want a recommendation in return for the one they give to you.
Finally, be specific about your recommendation requests. Instead of saying that you would like a general recommendation of your work, be precise about your needs. For example, for my business, Feather Communications, I may write something similar to the following: “Could you recommend me based upon my communication and presentation abilities?” This will give the person a starting point for providing the recommendation.
Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations on your LinkedIn profile. However, be careful and deliberate when selecting recommendation providers. Recommendations add relevance and build your reputation on your LinkedIn profile.
Finding Connections on LinkedIn
If you created a LinkedIn profile six months ago or a year ago and never use it, you are not alone. Or, you may only have ten connections and haven’t used LinkedIn for quite some time. If you are someone that has a stagnant LinkedIn profile, it is time to broaden your horizons and utilize this wonderful social media tool.
The first step in utilizing LinkedIn is to ensure that you are connected with people and potential business contacts. There are several methods for finding contacts within LinkedIn. In fact, LinkedIn makes it rather easy to search for those people you may already know. More importantly, the site lets you see the connections of those you are already connected to within the site. If you have an e-mail contact list, you may be able to import that list and match it up to those who are already using LinkedIn. Chances are, if these people are those you connect with via e-mail, they will be more than happy to connect with you via LinkedIn.
Secondly, you can ask a current connection to introduce you to one of their connections. This is a great way to get to know someone that could potentially lead to additional business, job opportunities, or a mentor within your field. Be sure to be specific when asking for a connection; people want to know who you are and how you found them. Mention that you have a mutual contact and hope to connect on social media through LinkedIn.
Finally, try to search by company or organizations. These can be companies where you have worked in the past or companies where you wish to work in the future. If you can connect with both current and past employees, you may find very valuable information about the organization. Also, connecting with past managers and co-workers gives you a great opportunity to ask for recommendations.
The most important thing to remember is that quantity may not necessarily outweigh quality. While it may be impressive to have 500+ connections, it is also imperative that these are quality connections that can be beneficial to you. When you agree to be connected with someone, you are also saying that you agree to help them as well. Connecting on LinkedIn is vital to your success on this social media site. Get started connecting today – search “Heather Rothbauer-Wanish” on LinkedIn and mention you saw this blog post. I look forward to connecting with you!
If you have decided to start a LinkedIn profile, you are on the right track to making important connections within your existing networks and beyond. The important thing to remember is that LinkedIn only works if you actually use it. Part of ensuring you are using LinkedIn means that you need to complete a profile.
When you start filling in your profile, you will notice a percentage that represents how complete your profile is at that particular time. Profiles that achieve a 100% completion rate tend to rank higher on searches within LinkedIn. You can certainly start your profile and then finish it at a later time; however, I encourage users to think about what they want to write and finish it during a specified time period.
Next, you will be encouraged to upload a profile picture to your LinkedIn profile. My LinkedIn profile page has a very professional photograph; please remember this when completing your profile. The photograph on LinkedIn is very small—you want it to represent you at your very best. Personal photographs are appropriate for personal networking; however, LinkedIn is used for more professional purposes such as job seeking, connecting with groups, and representing your business.
Finally, remember that words are key components of your LinkedIn profile. Make a list of words that appeal to people in your particular areas of expertise. Utilize these words when writing your profile. For example, describe your areas of expertise, mention job positions that may be of interest to you, and describe your reasons for joining LinkedIn.
My LinkedIn profile summary is listed below. Because I want to use my LinkedIn profile to promote my business, Feather Communications, you will notice that I have used key words that pertain to the writing and communication industry. Search LinkedIn and view profiles to discover what will best represent your industry, your organization, and, ultimately, you as a professional.
With over 12 years of management and communication experience, I decided to begin Feather Communciations in January 2008. Since that time, I have enjoyed working with and writing for a variety of clients, including local, regional and national publications. I have already worked with several clients in Australia and hope to continue my business’ international expansion. Through my experiences, I have given numerous presentations on business communication, e-mail etiquette and freelance writing.
Starting a LinkedIn Profile
If you are a professional business person or someone seeking to expand your network of contacts, then you need to join LinkedIn. Over the next several weeks and months, I will be providing tips for designing your LinkedIn profile page, finding contacts, asking for recommendations, and becoming an expert in your professional area.
LinkedIn is another social media tool that can be considered much more “professional” than Facebook or Twitter. Think of utilizing LinkedIn as your online resume. There are over 75 million users on LinkedIn and that number is growing each day. Everyone knows there is only so much time in a day to use social media, so you need to make it count. And, in my opinion, LinkedIn is a way to make a statement in the social media atmosphere.
LinkedIn is designed to add to your list of contacts. It is a place to find people you already know and expand to those you want to know for networking purposes. It’s an opportunity to connect with people quickly and easily in a professional medium. Many people are starting to use LinkedIn profiles in addition to a traditional resume or a replacement for that document.
Find out the key words being utilized in your industry and use them on your profile, especially in your summary statement. This will help ensure your profile is found when individuals are searching for professionals in your field. Develop your areas of expertise and list those, along with accomplishments and job history. Finally, you may want to summarize why you have joined LinkedIn—perhaps you are interested in connecting with similar people in your field or maybe you are seeking additional job opportunities.
To start your LinkedIn profile, simply go to LinkedIn.com and sign up today. Watch for the next blog which details how to effectively develop your summary statement and design a profile worth seeking.
P.S. If you would like to connect with me on LinkedIn, search for “Heather Rothbauer-Wanish” and click “Connect.”
Divide Your Resume into “Chunks”
If you have written your own resume, you have probably opened the file and changed it from time-to-time after you send it to various companies. Sometimes you tweak the educational portion, listing important classes that are applicable to the job opening. Other times, you may change the core competencies to match the key words utilized in the advertisement. By the time you have applied for 4-5 jobs, you probably have 4-5 different versions of your resume. There is an easier way to accomplish the same feat: divide your resume into “chunks.”
I realize that “chunks” isn’t a technical word, but it is a great way of describing the method I use for my own resume. I have various sections that I utilize for different types of job openings and I save these sections in a separate Word document. For example, I have a great deal of experience working in creative environments like a commercial photography studio and printing company. I use the technical jargon I learned in those industries if I am applying to the same sort of position within a creative field. If I want to emphasize my business teaching skills, then I am sure to include a “chunk” that shows all of the classes I have taught and my teaching philosophy.
If you wish to have one education-related resume and one business-related resume, then you can change your core competencies to match either industry. When a job opening develops, you can simply open the file and switch the pertinent information. You can use this method to mix-and-match resumes for various opportunities that arise.
Saving your resume into various sections or “chunks” may not sound pretty, but it is a very useful tool. When I work with resume clients that wish to have more than one version of their resume, I often include a separate document with these sections so they can change when needed. The most important thing to remember is that one-size does not fit all. You need to change your resume to meet the needs of the marketplace. Dividing into “chunks” allows you to do that on a timely and efficient basis.
When coaching people through the interview process, I have continually found that people do not give themselves enough credit. Guess what? You have done a lot of great things in your career and you need to have the specifics to prove it.
Whenever possible during the interview process, provide specific examples of what you have accomplished, how you have saved clients’ money, methods you have utilized to increase sales, or how your idea helped boost production by 25 percent. These concrete examples put a numerical value on your accomplishments and provide another way for the interviewer to remember you.
For example, suppose an interviewer asked the following question: “Do you have experience managing people?” Many people would answer that question with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. However, think of the question differently: “How do you have experience managing people?” If you insert the word ‘how’ into most questions, you will begin providing the information that most employers seek during the interview process.
Suppose someone answered ‘yes’ to the above question. They have managed people. Although it tells me WHAT they did, it does not tell me HOW they did it. Imagine this answer from a prospective employee: “I have managed a sales force of up to 25 people. This included bi-weekly meetings in person and conference calls once per week. In this position, I was also able to assist my salespeople in setting goals, objectives, and sales targets on a monthly basis.” This provides much more information than a simple ‘yes’ response would have provided.
Be specific in your interview responses. Concrete examples, detailed information, and precise answers provide a memorable impression for the employer. As human beings, we remember specifics that make us think, educate, and allow us to recall someone. Use this to your advantage when answering questions during an interview.
