5 Secrets to Getting Your Resume Noticed
by coachkathy | March 22, 2008 | In Career | No Comments
You’re Qualified…Why Aren’t You Getting Any Response To Your Resume?
You’ve mailed your resume to prospective employers, posted it online, and handed it to friends already working in civilian companies. But nobody is calling you back. Why not?
Many transitioners assume their military background puts them at a disadvantage in the civilian job market. Quite the contrary – You’re military background may actually make you more qualified than your civilian competition. However, employers often overlook perfectly qualified candidates (military and civilian) if their resume is too long, difficult to read, or contains words they don’t understand. Since your resume may be the only introduction employers have with you, it’s imperative that it present you in the very best possible light.
Many jobseekers never receive the consideration they deserve because their skills and accomplishments are hidden in run-on statements and military jargon. If your resume contains jargon or long lists of data, you may not be presenting yourself in the best way possible.
Most Resumes Are Quickly Glanced Over…NOT Read!
A common misconception among jobseekers is that employers read their resume from beginning to end. This simply isn’t true. Many companies receive thousands of resumes each month. There isn’t time to read them all. Your resume will be given an initial, quick 20 second glance to determine whether or not you are qualified for the position. A few resumes may be kept on file, but most find their way into the recycle bin. It’s vital that you use a resume format that highlights your key qualifications instantly. Use a format that can be read and understood in those first 20 seconds! This is essential to getting your resume to the second stage of actually being read in more detail. Once you’ve done that, be sure you have translated any military jargon into language that an employer can easily understand.
5 Secrets to Getting Your Resume Noticed:
1. Create a HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS section at the top of your resume to showcase your most important qualifications.
2. Use bulleted statements instead of paragraphs. For example:
HIGHLIGHTS OF QUALIFICATIONS
• Total years of relevant experience
• Most relevant skills
• Computer experience
• Security Clearance Level 3. Only include your military experience that directly relates to the job you’re applying for. (Remember, your goal is to get an interview, not tell your life story.)
4. Avoid ALL military jargon. Translate your accomplishments into civilian equivalent terms that employers can understand.
5. List only your education and training that directly applies to the job you’re applying for. List any certifications and licenses you have that the employer may find valuable.
Your resume is one of the most important documents you will ever write. Done well, it will open doors to future opportunities. Done poorly, it can leave you waiting by the phone. Use whatever resources you have to create a resume that communicates your skills and qualifications in the best way possible. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
