When sifting through resumes, most employers and recruiters know exactly what they're looking for. According to Kursmark, resumes that meet their expectations are ones that respond to all nine of the following questions:
- Who are you?
To determine how well your resume addresses this, Kursmark suggests having friends or colleagues read it. Within five seconds of them looking at the resume, snatch it back from them and quiz them on what they know about you as a job seeker based on what they read. If they can't offer a quick answer that truly describes you, your resume's summary needs some work.
- What can you do for me?
The most effective way to show employers the value you offer is to show them how you've contributed to an employer's success elsewhere. Kursmark reminds readers that to be truly compelling, these examples must be specific and measurable accomplishments that cite numbers and other details.
- Do you have the skills I'm looking for?
Scan job ads and job descriptions to discover which skills are most relevant to the employers and recruiters receiving your resume. Then strategically place references to those skills throughout your resume to ensure that it makes it passed computer scans and into the hands of employers and recruiters.
- Where have you worked before?
This one should be simple. Employers want to know where you've worked, for how long, and which job titles you've held that may indicate how prepared you are for a role in their organization.
- Is your experience relevant to my needs?
Sometimes it's necessary to expand upon a job title or job description to truly demonstrate that you have experience that applies to the job you're seeking. Consider using bullets to present brief and interesting information that is relevant to the employer.
- Do you have the right education and credentials?
If you have the education, credentials, and training needed to qualify for the job, be sure to say so! Use commonly accepted terminology and keywords in this section to ensure that your information isn't misinterpreted or overlooked by employers or resume scanners, adds Kursmark.
- What kind of person are you?
''Adding insightful information about what makes you special can be a definite plus on your resume and help decision-makers discriminate between you and another candidate, even before you've met in person,'' writes Kursmark. She suggests including ''extras,'' such as a branding statement, foreign languages you speak, computer proficiencies, or activities you enjoy.
- Do I see any ''red flags'' in your background?
Gaps in employment, an indication of job hopping, spending too much time in the same job, or resume errors may alert employers and recruiters that you are not the type of candidate they're looking for in their organizations. To avoid drawing attention to ''red flags'' on your resume, make sure that you make your accomplishments and skills stand out as strongly as possible.
- Can I easily get in touch with you?
After all your hard work in putting together a powerful resume, don't forget the essentials! No matter how great your resume is, if you don't include a phone number, address, and e-mail address somewhere on it, you'll never hear from the employer or recruiter. Just be careful not to include too much contact information. This can be overwhelming for people wanting to know that the number they call first is the one that puts them directly in touch with you.
Selena Dehne is a career writer for JIST Publishing who shares the latest occupational, career, and job-search information available with job seekers and career changers. Her articles help people find meaningful work, develop their career and life plans, and carry out effective job-search campaigns.
