Just Fifteen Seconds... Will your Resume Survive?

Oct. 5, 2009 - PRLog -- While maybe not altogether fair, due to the overwhelming number of applicants in the job market, recruiters are forced to blaze through stacks of resumes 'till they see something that grabs their attention.  Applicants are trying all sorts of creative ways to get noticed...including personal billboards.  This is the toughest job market in years, and if you are going to have a fighting chance, you have to be creative and think outside the box.  

At the professional level, the first place to start is the resume itself.  If you struggle with your written communication skills, spend the money and get some help.  There are a multitude of resume services out there that can help you craft a quality message for your resume.  Share your resume with a few trusted colleagues and ask for some constructive criticism...remember, now is not the time to be sensitive...you need someone to be brutally honest about your resume before you send it to prospective employers.  And for the love of pete...check it for grammar and spelling.  A sure way to kill your chances is to be sloppy and overlook the basics.

Second, you need to be specific.  People think that being vague in their approach is an advantage, when in reality, companies are looking for people who know exactly what they want.  If you are shopping for a new car or for mayonnaise, you are probably specific about what you want.  So, the same thing applies when "shopping" for a new job…you need to be specific in your approach.

Next, begin to market yourself online.  If you are not branding yourself online, then you at a serious disadvantage.  It is estimated that over 80% of companies looking to hire a candidate will do research online for information about that prospect.  Services like LinkedIn, MySpace, and Facebook are simple, yet effective ways to network and brand yourself online.  When networking online, one of the quickest ways to get shut down is to blurt out that you are looking for a job.  Be inquisitive about your industry or the company that someone works for.  It will often open the door to further discussions and expose possible job openings.  But a simple word of caution…if you truly want to be perceived as a professional, don't post non-professional smut online.  While you may think it is cool and funny, employers don't care to see pictures from your latest keg party or your inconspicuous tattoos…get the point?

Along with networking online, there are many other creative strategies for professional job seekers.  One service recently launched by Straight Edge Marketing is called Executive Preview.  http://executivepreview.com

Unlike the traditional corny "video resume in a box," an Executive Preview is a short, professionally recorded, video overlay that is "outside the box," placed in front of a candidate's resume.  It allows professional-level candidates to briefly showcase their experience, qualifications, and professionalism to a prospective employer.  While a relatively new service, it looks to be an interesting concept that will definitely get someone’s attention, and could provide a much needed advantage in a crowded job market.

Remember, you only have fifteen seconds to work with...so make the most out of it!