Give References Context

It seems like we're almost at home base when we are asked for references after rounds of interviewing. But don't assume that a job offer is coming even if your references are committed to singing your praises.

Most of the reference lists I see are just that - lists of names with contact information. How can anyone tell from this why someone with a lofty title at an employer they cannot connect with a company on your resume would be qualified to talk about your fitness for a position? Perhaps she left a shared employer for a new job. She may be the person who can best articulate how you would be a great match but she could easily be overlooked or devalued as irrelevant.

This is why it's important to give your references context. This can be done as simply as "My supervisor in sales at XYZ for four years." It's short, sweet, and provides insight as to the reference's perspective on your qualifications. It's less likely that a person would be disregarded if the relationship is seen as important, and hiring managers tend to use references to verify qualifying information.

This is one of those examples of a small consideration that can make a big difference in the final steps of securing that great job.

Resume - The Most Important 15% of Your Job Hunt

I recently sat in a webinar of a professional job search colleague. He stated that having a solid resume is 15% of what it takes to get a good job these days.

At first this sounded pretty light, but when you think about how we also need to invest time in networking, researching potential employers, applying, interviewing, negotiating salary and other follow-up, it does make sense in terms of time and effort.

But what an important 15%. An effective resume should produce interviews. A stellar resume can differentiate us, can serve as a platform to soar in interviews, and can be the foundation for sharp salary negotiations. In fact, the resume is akin to the basement that supports a house. It may take up only about 20% of the space (in a house with garage and attic), but it provides the base for everything else and its condition seriously impacts the value of the remainder of the building.

A critical 15%; it's all the more important to ensure that the resume shines as bright as possible.

Should You Include Your LinkedIn Profile Website Address on Your Resume?

Af first glance, this question seems like a no brainer. It would seem the answer would be "yes" under all circumstances.

I agree that providing this link can result in a definite advantage, especially if your profile includes recommendations that lend credibility to your resume claims. It also shows how well connected you are in your field.

However, if you include your link in your resume contact header, be sure that your LinkedIn profile will do you justice and not backfire on you. Be sure it's up to date and (just like with your resume) contains no typos or grammatical errors. Many people copy material from their resume to put into LinkedIn, which is fine as long as the profile provides new and helpful information, not just duplication. Seek out recommendations (which you can often obtain by recommending others) and build a solid online network through this wonderful resource.