If you haven’t been engaged in a job search since the 90s (or before), you will find that the landscape has changed. The evolution of technology has forever altered how the world works, how people take and share pictures, how they communicate, how news is disseminated and how candidates find jobs.
Most recruiters today use applicant tracking systems (databases) to sift through the thousands of resumes they receive from individuals that may or may not have read the job postings thoroughly, customized their resumes to fit the target positions, and are applying to whatever they see whether or not they are qualified.
You can dramatically increase your chances of being called for an interview if you:
1) Follow instructions. Use the application method specified. If you are asked to apply by email, do so. If you are asked to apply online, do so. If you are specifically asked NOT to call . . . or apply in person . . . why give an employer the idea that you either cannot read, won’t follow directions or are a potential hiring risk? Note that this is especially important for federal applications. If you don’t apply as specified, you can be sure your application will be ignored.
2) Lose the objective. I haven’t used an objective on a resume for years. Why not? Because they are often vague or silly. Everyone wants to work for a progressive company. Have you ever seen a dead end job advertised? Of course not. Recruiters are not going to read through an objective statement and your resume to figure out what to do with you. Save time by using a title at the top of your resume. You will benefit in two ways: you will be using at least some of the keywords a recruiter is looking for in finding a potential match, and you will quickly let the reader know the level of work you are pursuing.
Ellie Vargo, MRW, CCMC
ev@noteworthyresume.com