Resumes: Tips to Landing a Job in 2003

Tips to Landing a Job in 2003

I work with clients all the time that make no headway in the job search process and think it is the economy. After the booming 1990's where applicants were hired with little effort, I find job seekers don't do everything they are "supposed" to do. Here are some crucial steps / strategies that job seekers should ensure they follow:

Everyone knows resumes are the primary tool to market qualifications but they are so poorly written and produced that an effective resume is a terrific way to stand heads and above the competition. The resume must clearly and easily demonstrate to an employer the applicant's credentials, expertise, accomplishments, and contributions. They MUST also show that their qualifications match the employer's job requirements.
Applicants must adhere to application requirements. If the web site says they want a scannable resume, only scannable resumes will do. If they want a resume sent in ASCII text, a Word attachment will knock you out of the running.
Cover letters are a terrific and under-used tool to target and address the unique requirements in a position. They can also be an effective reminder to follow up on any networking, referral, or interview contact.
Applicants must prepare themselves for the job interview. It is imperative to research the organization and draft one to three questions to ask the interviewer. Applicants who state they have no questions to ask are less likely to get the job offer.
Successful searches are grounded on follow up. Applicants should not be discouraged if they do not hear back from correspondence, e-mails, phone calls, or interviews. They should keep a log of all contacts and diligently but politely follow up. The persistent job seeker gets the job.

Good luck!