Aberlene Resume Tips

Write Your Resume to the Future, Not the Past

2012-01-05T07:35:00.001-08:00

One of the biggest mistakes you can make in composing your resume is to let your past drive the focus of the content. While a resume covers what we have done, proper perspective in using this information is key. Let your career goal, as it relates to the future you want, guide what you choose to include. You can help employers see you as a qualified candidate if you can clearly show them the relevance of your background to their needs.

If you are looking to change your career or industry, be sure to research the new area as thoroughly as possible through job postings and career exploration sites such as American’s Career InfoNet http://www.careerinfonet.org/. You should be able to determine if you need training to get you up to speed. If it appears you do not need training, utilize a concise but strong summary and keyword section to position the change you are making in terms of why you would be successful. Do not include information that would be irrelevant in the experience section, but instead focus on the responsibilities and especially achievements that highlight strengths as could be seen as relating to this new area. Functional resume formats are often recommended for career changers, but be careful. In today’s highly competitive job market, functional resumes are often viewed with suspicion by recruiters and cast aside. A better option would be a chronological - functional hybrid, in which key skill categories are used within the most recent experience descriptions to organize major responsibilities and achievements as relevant to the new area.

If you are staying within the same career and industry, always focus more of the content on the achievements that you feel will impress potential employers, providing context and quantifying wherever possible to easily illustrate your value.

Finally, it is critical to stay on top of new developments in the field through continuing your education, earning certifications, joining professional associations, etc. Be sure to make this evident on the resume. Also, don’t forget to show that you keep up with societal trends by developing and maintaining your LinkedIn Profile connections and groups. Including the URL of a well-developed profile in your contact information indicates that you are a person with a healthy, active career and not stagnating in the past.

Web Resumes - Another Way for Recruiters to Find You Online

2011-10-31T11:42:00.000-07:00

If you are in an occupation in which openings are pursued for filling by professional recruiters (head-hunters), you might consider another option to enhance your visibility: the web resume. However, if you are protecting your current job, this option would need to be considered with great care as online sourcing methods are also used by HR recruiters.

There are a few key advantages to having a “web” presence. One is that you can easily share the website’s URL in circumstances in which resumes would be not appropriate, such as networking. The URL could be included on a personal business card. Secondly, recruiters know how to strategically use Google searches to bring up candidate web resumes. They work with LinkedIn, but they also work through Google in their searches.

People often think that a web resume necessitates a domain hosting charge, but that is not true because it is generally a page on an existing website. A free resource (and one of the most respected web resume outlets) is http://www.visualcv.com/, where you can create the web resume with hyper-links and portfolio pieces for free. You can also safeguard your privacy by setting the level of visibility.

Sorting through the options , however, can be time-consuming and confusing. Aberlene Resume is available to assist you if you are interested in strengthening your online visibility or creating personal business cards.

The Power of the Thank You Letter

2011-08-31T07:27:00.000-07:00

Does sending a thank you letter / email after interviewing sound cliché? Trite? If so, you may be in the majority opinion as most people do not follow up with this step.

And yet, as it is a step that most neglect, if done right it could set you apart. The purpose of this communication is not merely to thank interviewers for their time, but to instill your value in their minds.

Although it’s a good idea to start with a “thank you,” go beyond this to:
1) Remind them how your qualifications exceed their requirements;
2) Briefly illustrate your worth through providing a solution to a problem discussed during the interview or by using a short example of how you’ve excelled.
3) Let them know how interested and enthusiastic you are about the position;
4) Address anything important you feel you should have in the interview.

Keep the letter as brief as possible and to the point. In today's world of "information on steroids," this is critical to make sure it is read.

A good thank you letter can help get you noticed. A great one can help you rise to the top of the pack.

Tips on Choosing a Resume Writer

2011-05-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

Evaluate for writing skills: Work only with someone who is a Certified Professional Resume Writer. Although the industry is not government-regulated, there are very reputable organizations (such as the Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches) who certify writers based on exams and review of their work by qualified peers. Also, check the background of the person you are considering to see if it contains any earlier writing or marketing experience.

Review the writer's samples: This alone will tell you a great deal about the writer's talent and understanding of resume dynamics. Be wary of writers unwilling to share samples. If they claim their resumes are "proprietary property" or are concerned about potential clients stealing their work, they are crying foul for no reason. Resume writers regularly share fictionalized samples of their work in publications and marketing websites. Look for experience that reflects an understanding of the job market: Consider how long the person been writing resumes and whether they have done so in your industry. Inquire as to whether their background also includes any human resources, career services, or recruiting experience.

Search their website for evidence of results: Read through testimonials and see if there is any aggregate results listed. Many services survey their clients as to their satisfaction.

Be careful in working with services that rely on multiple writers: If you do, obtain as much information as you can on the specific writer with whom you will be working. Large services often randomly assign writers, perpetuating the possibility of a poor match.

Advantages of Web-Based Resumes

2011-05-24T10:51:00.000-07:00

Long gone is the day of relying on a simple paper resume. Today’s complex world of communication requires Word, ASCII / plain – text, and PDF as basic versions to have. But another alternative to consider is web-based resumes.

For those conducting a confidential job search, this type of resume can serve as a two-edged sword. A resume online for anyone to bring up in a simple Google search will open up more possibilities with recruiters who are scouring the Internet (as well as social media). However, your company’s HR recruiters can also come across your resume.

In many cases the web resume is more ideal for those whose job search is not confidential. However, VisualCV.com offers control over online access. It is a well-respected site that also posts open positions and encourages recruiter involve-ment. There is no cost, but the process is time-consuming. Aberlene Resume is available to help with this, other web-based alternatives, and any other job search document needs.

Choose Your Resume Writer Carefully

2011-05-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

Whom you choose to write your resume is an important decision that will impact the impression you make on hiring managers and the salary level you can negotiate.

Our careers are central to our quality of life and our ability to support our loved ones. With that in mind, here are a few facts you should know about resume writers:

Anyone can declare themselves a resume writer. This is an industry that is not government-regulated and the background of resume writers can span from administrative support to business professional to recruiter to career counselor and more. Most writers have solid credentials based upon their history in employment counseling, recruiting, or human resources, but this should be evaluated carefully. The writer's background will be indicative of their understanding of the job market and ability to work with their clients.

Large online resume services often rely on numerous writers. That means that just as the talent of each writer varies, so does the quality.

Not every person with a history in recruiting or human resources possesses the level of talent required to craft a persuasive resume. It is an art, not a science. An effective resume writer needs a background that illustrates understanding of hiring managers and the skill to effectively write in marketing language to represent another person. No easy task.

You can be more effective in picking a writer if you know what criteria to base your decision on. See our upcoming tips on choosing a writer.

Using Job Boards Wisely

2011-03-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

Relying too heavily on applying online can severely limit your job search and eat up too much valuable time.

The reality is that it is very easy to download your resume or paste it into a textbox to quickly apply for a position. It is so easy that recruiters are being inundated with hundreds of resumes and sometimes establishing a cut-off. Part of the problem is that because of the easy access and application process, many people are applying to jobs for which they are only marginally qualified for, or for jobs that do not even match the qualifications on their resume.

We advise using no more than 30% of your job search time applying online and doing so selectively after carefully comparing your qualifications to the requirements and checking out the company.

Be sure to use a multi-prong approach to your job search, utilizing networking (traditional and online), recruiters / staffing agencies, job fairs / job clubs, and other resources. Also, be sure to follow up whenever possible. It can make a big difference. I recently received a message from a client saying that he only had one unsuccessful interview in a couple of months until he started calling agencies directly to follow up after submitting his resume. He reported that he then quickly had interest from four companies and has two second interviews scheduled.

Protect Your Identity in Your Job Search

2011-02-13T05:27:00.000-08:00

We all understand that identity theft can be a true threat. Job hunters in particular need to be wary because they share so much personal information. Here are a few pointers to help you protect yourself.

First if you are applying online for jobs, eliminate your street address and zip code from your contact information on all resumes that you post. This information is critical for credit card verifications. Making it public just makes it easier and more appealing for someone to try to steal your identity.

Beware of employers who ask for background checks before offering you a job. There's no reason to do this before you are hired, and you should suspect any requests to do so before-hand.

When using a resume posting service, be sure to take advantage of their confidentiality feature. This is especially important for job seekers who are protecting their current jobs. The last thing you need is to have your current employer find your resume.

The Thank-You Letter as a Strategic Self-Marketing Tool

2011-01-06T04:34:00.000-08:00

Most people forget to send a thank-you letter after interviewing. Mistake. Those who do send one often fail to capitalize on this wonderful opportunity to further promote their value. Big mistake.

While it is true that this type of document should thank the interviewer for their time and interest, a greater impact on the hiring decision can be made by incorporating one or two of the following strategies.

Emphasize an achievement that epitomizes the skills identified as most valuable during the interview. As succinctly as possible, remind the employer of how one of your major career achievements is predictive of what you offer.

Share additional relevant information from your background that was forgotten or missed. The stress of interviewing and the quick responses required means we can inadvertently forget to mention an important accomplishment or provide an insightful comment. This forum provides a second chance to do so.

Build a stronger relationship through sharing something that may be helpful or of interest to the interviewer. Most interviews usually touch upon goals and / or challenges of the company. Using these “touchstones” to follow up with some research is a tactic used by few, but sharing an ensuing article or relevant ideas goes beyond stating interest in a company to truly expressing it.

Overcome an objection or potential barrier to being hired. Gently confront something that you feel “in your bones” will keep you from being seriously considered. For example, if you do not possess a certain software skill identified as being essential, consider indicating your willingness to learn, mentioning if you are a quick study.

Provide a rational for the employer to see you excelling in the position. Prepare a strong closing statement that expresses your enthusiasm and commitment to achieving success in this new role.

Hand-written notes provide a warm, personal touch. Mailed letters look very professional. But in today’s world of fast-paced technology and communications, a hard-hitting, concise thank-you email may be the best bet.

Don’t miss out on what is likely your last opportunity to shape the impression you make. Do write and send out quickly a powerful thank-you message after you interview.

A Networking Gauge

2010-12-27T08:04:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard about the importance and value of networking in job search, but it can be confusing to determine how much is enough.

As with goals and objectives in general, the true test is in the results. However, it is helpful to use a gauge along the way. Here is one for you to consider. Are you...

--Adding at least 10 new contacts per week?

--Receiving 3 referrals to industry-specific contacts per week?

--Finding 2 ways to be active in your target industry each week?

--Beginning to receive targeted job leads from your networking contacts?

--Acquiring recommendations on your LinkedIn profile?

This is simply applying the KPI (key performance indicator) strategy as a way to continue to motivate and produce results. But remember, successful interactions with people depend upon quality as well as quantity.

Check Out AppleMate.com - A Tracking Resource

2010-10-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had difficulty keeping track of the numerous jobs you’ve applied for? Lose track of important phone numbers, websites, and email addresses related to your job search?

If so, here is a new free resource that can store and track information on an unlimited number of applications. It also has the ability to sync with Google calendar and other tools for reminders on deadlines and interviews.

Users can sign up for a free account and then input individual job or school applications, update application progress and status, enter company website and position information, and set reminders. Future possibilities include smart phone applications. It also stores website user names and passwords, making reconnecting with sensitive employer information easier.

Its revenue base is built upon noninvasive advertising. Initial reports on its use have been positive. It’s easy to use, there’s no download necessary and people can use it as a one-stop convenient place to store and track every application for every job (or school) submitted.

A Few Tips to Elevate Your Online Visibility in a Job Search

2010-09-27T08:51:00.000-07:00

One way to help shape your online presence and make it easier for recruiters to find you is by having a web version of your resume - essentially a simple web page that just consists of your resume but would easily emerge if someone googles your name or career field.

However, this really should only serve for nonconfidential job searches. It could jeopardize your existing job if the search was conducted by your employer. An alternative to this is to give your resume an online presence through VisualCV.com, a free resource that also also allows you to electronically attach references, work samples, etc., as well as to hyperlink to employer, education, and other websites you may want to especially highlight in your background. One of the best things about this site is that it allows you to totally control the level of Internet visibility. You can give wide access to the Internet or keep it private to share with only those employers you are targeting.

Aberlene Resume & Career Services LLC is familiar with and can create web resumes and VisualCVs if you are looking for assistance. Its resume writer was one of the first five world-wide certified to create VisualCVs. Check out our services at http://www.aberleneresume.com/.

Leveraging References for Maximum Impact

2010-09-06T06:40:00.000-07:00

In competitive fields, a hiring decision can depend upon what a candidate’s references have to say. When other critical factors, such as experience and education equal out among two or more candidates, the credibility and faith expressed through qualified references become very important. So it is necessary that you wisely choose your references and that you prepare them to help put you in the best light possible.

First, only choose references who can speak articulately and will sing your praises highly.
Always ask their permission and be sure to keep them informed of jobs for which you’re being considered. Fill them in on the essential qualifications so they can give some thought as to what they could say.

Create a “References” document. For a more professional look, copy and paste your résumé contact heading at the top. Create two columns. Under the first column, list three to five professional references. Provide as much professional contact information as possible. This way if an employer cannot reach them by phone, perhaps email will work better. Under the second column, succinctly describe the nature of the relationship, such as “Supervised my work for seven years at XYZ Company.” This is especially helpful for any reference relationship for which employment and other circumstances have changed over time.

Only provide references when requested. But as with anything in your job search, be prepared. Bring your list into interviews. Keep it in your portfolio just in case you’re asked for it.

Finally, remember to thank anyone who has provided a reference for you. They have taken the time to help you out, something for which gratitude should always be expressed. As we all know, the courtesy associated with showing appreciation keeps relationships strong and reciprocal.

Did You Know Your Job Hunt Expenses May Be Tax-Deductible?

2010-08-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Many people are not aware that money spent when searching for work or to find a job is eligible for a tax deduction. Any reasonable and necessary expenses you incur when searching for a job may be written off or deducted on your tax returns filed for the year you have expenses in search of your next position.

There are three general exceptions to remember: 1) You cannot be looking for a job in a new occupation, 2) There was a substantial break between the ending of your last job and looking for a new one and 3) You are looking for a job for the first time. Allowable expenses can include fees for resume and cover letter preparation and any fees associated with distributing and posting your resume online. Other job search expenses include the cost to fax your resume to recruiters and hiring managers, travel expenses you encounter while interviewing, career coaching and outplacement services may be deductible. Tuition or training expenses for courses taken or Continuing Education Units needed for licensing, technical manuals and books or supplies including special tools necessary for employment in your field may be allowed.

Certain research and expenses to attend specialized training may also qualify. Attending any job related workshops, seminars or getting a degree in your current field may also be deductable. So be sure to keep those receipts. (Source: Career News / Examiner)

Benefit of Interview Storytelling

2010-07-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

Hiring managers look for evidence that a candidate has the right qualifications, will fit the company culture, and appears to be the best person for the job.

Just confirming that you have what the employer is looking for is not enough. Often they will use behavioral-based questions that go way beyond uncovering what you offer to try to assess how effective you've been. These questions often start in such ways as “Tell me about a time . . .,” “Provide an example of . . .,” “What would you do if. . .”

Be ready to respond with short success stores using the STAR (Situation – Task – Action – Result) formula. Hiring managers want facts in the form of clear examples that provide proof of performance. In your stories, provide context by briefly describing the situation, the tasks required, and the action taken to be successful. Expand upon the result so the impact and benefit to the employer is clearly understood.

We can all relate to good stories. Employers can be swayed to a candidate by seeing themselves in a success story.

Many sources exist on the Internet providing examples of typical behavioral-based questions used in interviewing. The major requirements for the job can also be a source to mine for potential questions. Part of your preparation for interviewing should include developing your success stories for areas you determine as valued by potential employers.

In summary, use the STAR method to develop your interviewing stories, but keep them brief and to the point to make the best use of your interview time.

Tips for Finding Recruiters

2010-06-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

Many people have found recruiters to be very helpful allies in their professional job search. As recruiters are generally paid by employers to find specific talent, they are often privy to some of those jobs in the “hidden” market. Many times their focus is on management, sales, or higher-level jobs.

So how do you find recruiters that could help you? The easiest way to begin your search is through the Yellow Pages or Yellow Book. Recruiters are often hidden among staffing agencies in the “employment agencies” section.

Be selective. Most recruiters specialize. If they do not identify their area of expertise, call them and ask them. In fact, go a step further and ask what kind of luck they’ve had in placing someone in your field and at your level. Don’t waste time working with someone who has not had success in your area.

There are also quite a few online directories. These are often fee-based, but are often well worth the cost. Here are a few good sites we discovered:

Select Recruiters at http://www.selectrecruiters/.
com: A searchable database of recruiters that allows you to bring up results by function, industry, geography, etc. (fee-based).

Directory of Executive Recruiters at http://www.recruiterredbook.com/index.php (fee-based).

Executive Registry at http://www.executiveregistry.com/ (fee-based).

Keep in mind that working through recruiters is one viable strategy to consider including in your diversified job hunt plan. As with online job search, it is not recommended to rely on this strategy alone.

Resource for Checking Out Potential Employers

2010-04-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wished for a resource that gives you an inside view of what it’s like to work for a particular employer? Glassdoor.com is just such a resource.

It’s a very easy Website to use. It provides employee reviews of their company, presenting both the pros and cons of what it’s like to work there. In addition, insider information is provided in two other categories: interviewing and salaries. So in one Website, you can get information from employees on what it’s like to work at the company, tips to help with interviewing for jobs there, and what they pay.

The Website also encourages all who use it to post reviews, interviewing information and salary data, thereby growing the database of information.

With regard to reliability, any site that allows anyone to post information may have some credibility problems. But as with Wikepedia (encyclopedia site relying on it users), information gems can generally be found

Importance of Developing a Diversified Job Hunt Plan

2010-04-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

Virtually anyone who spends the majority of their job hunt time applying online will become frustrated with the poor rate of positive responses.

Why is this so when online job boards have become so prevalent and seem to make looking for a job easier than ever before? It is precisely because of the illusion of ease associated with online job search that produces frustration. Because it’s so easy to paste in or download your resume, recruiters are being literally inundated, and not only with resumes of qualified personnel. Thinking that casting a wider net will produce greater results, many people are applying for positions that “relate” in any way to their background. Quick and easy to do. This is happening at a time when employers can be very selective in who they consider.

Therefore, when applying online be sure to target positions which your resume clearly supports. Tweak it as needed, especially the keyword section.

On-line applying should not take any more than 30% of your total job hunt time. Networking should take 30-50% of your time. It can support on-line efforts. If you have a key contact within a company, they can directly intercede with HR on your behalf or advise them to pull out your resume from the pile they’ve accumulated.

Some other job hunt strategies to seriously consider in your overall plan include “working” job fairs, joining professional associations, and using social media (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) to establish your professional brand and further your outreach.

Rise Above the Competition in Interviews

2010-01-19T11:59:00.000-08:00

Standard interviewing advice tends to promote reactionary responses, such as in preparing to answer behavioral-based questions and developing intelligent questions to bring in. This is all well and good, but is essentially what everyone is doing. To distinguish yourself from the pack, consider incorporating a proactive approach in your interviewing. Here are a few tips for you to consider.

Explore a specific challenge being faced by the department and offer to outline an outside perspective to explain how you would tackle it. Do not attempt to provide an answer on the spot unless you’re 100% sure of its efficacy. Instead offer to take some time outside of the interview, giving yourself the time to contemplate and research.

In the interview, ask what special qualities they’re looking for in the ideal candidate. Then counter each point with examples from your background. If you get stumped and need more time to think about specific points, address this further in your thank-you letter.

In fact, the thank-you letter / email should be used strategically to further set you apart. Many interviewees do not even bother with following up and are missing a prime opportunity to distinguish themselves. First, be sure to get business cards from each of the interviewers to get their email addresses. Then in your email, go beyond thanking them by explaining why you’d be the best choice based on what you learned and how well the culture appears to fit your personality. Include important information you forgot in the interview, and possibly outline your solution to that challenge they’re facing.

So next time try being proactive, but not to the point where it seems like you're taking control of the process. As with most things in life, balance works well.

Upcoming Workshop on Stress

2010-01-08T05:14:00.000-08:00

Kathy Bornheimer is a well-respected Milwaukee area career coach and business consultant. Readers will find her insightful articles on effective job hunting techniques on Milwaukeejobs.com, among other sources.

Her second book, co-authored with Jeff Percival is the basis for an upcoming book signing and interactive workshop, “How to Reduce Stress at Work,” to be held at the Open Book Community Bookstore at 4093 N. Oakland Avenue in Shorewood on Sunday, Feb. 7 from 1:30 – 3:30 pm. The cost of $35 includes the workshop, signed book, and snack. Register by February 5 at www.openbookcoop.com or by calling 414-431-3170.

Critical Tool: Job-hunt.org

2009-12-09T06:09:00.000-08:00

If this Website is not already saved as an Internet favorite, we highly recommend that you do so. As a job search resource, its value cannot be overestimated. Along with a standard job search engine, it offers helpful directories for such tools as niche job boards, recruiters, job fairs, local networking and job search support groups, and unique employer connections. You’ll find a plethora of free and reliable job hunting resources (articles, ebooks, and tutorials).

It even offers advice in optimizing your use of other sites (such as craigslist and Indeed.com) to uncover new opportunities.

Tap Into Free Local Resources

2009-11-22T08:48:00.000-08:00

Area workforce development centers and job centers offer assistance worth checking out, most of which is free or low-cost. For example, the Waukesha County Workforce Development Center in Pewaukee, Wisconsin features the following:

14 workshops related to job search and career development;

job information and career development centers;

access to Workforce Investment Act services, which includes training funds for laid-off workers and low-income populations;

economic assistance programs.

For more information, go to http://www.wfdc.org/.

The Milwaukee Hire Center provides retraining and re-employment services specifically for dislocated workers in Milwaukee County. Further information can be found at http://www.milwaukeelabor.org/about_us/hire_center.cfm.

In addition to practical resources, these centers also provide a supportive environment and new opportunities for networking.

Optimize Your Layoff Downtime

2009-11-16T16:15:00.000-08:00

Depressive feelings associated with being dislocated can impact your energy level if you allow this to happen. Remember there is a moment where we can choose between lethargy and taking action. Perhaps you need some time to process the feelings. Find someone you trust to talk things over and then consciously commit to move on by drawing up a plan of action.

No doubt that plan of action will focus on a “job hunt.” Notice the use of the term “job hunt,” instead of “job search,” which sounds a bit more passive. A job hunt has the feel of a confident and assertive attitude, the kind that can truly treat the task as a job in itself.

Of course, this needs to be your main priority with your time, but do not allow yourself the luxury to feel sorry for yourself. In fact, this is a time to commit even more to your development both personally and professionally. It can be an ideal time to pick up some new skills by taking some classes or studying for certifications. Check with your local Workforce Development Center. There are usually government funds available for training, as well as for support services such as child care and transportation. Keeping busy in positive ways will help you to move forward; inaction can set up its own paralyzing dynamic.

Another constructive way to use this downtime is by volunteering. Nonprofits are often more in need of volunteers during economic slowdowns as donations tend to drop. Even some businesses open up to the idea of accepting talented volunteers when reduced workforces become stressed. Volunteering can be beneficial for displaced workers in at least three ways:

1) As an entry on your resume, it indicates that you’re industrious and can make the best use of your talents even in a difficult situation.
2) It further broadens your network and the number of people who know what you’re seeking and realize what you have to offer. Look to volunteer in areas that will benefit from your highest areas of expertise. If you have managerial skills, seek to help organize an event or major project. If you have an executive background, research opportunities to join a board of directors in your community. Checking out volunteer opportunities can be started quite easily by doing a Google search using such terms as “volunteer work,” “nonprofit center,” etc.
3) Helping others feels good and silently works to repair damaged confidence and self-esteem.

You might also surprise yourself by picking up a new skill set or two.

In summary, keep moving forward by finding constructive things to do with your downtime; it’s a strategy that will help you to strengthen your character and gain strength through adversity.

Strategize Your Job Hunt

2009-11-09T10:20:00.000-08:00

Many people focus their job hunt efforts on applying through online job boards, although research has shown this to be one of the least effective ways to obtain a position. As it’s so easy and quick, everyone is using this method; with people sometimes applying for positions which they are minimally qualified or even unqualified for in their rush to get out as many resumes as possible.

A recent article described a situation in which a basic office posting elicited over 500 resumes. HR only screened through the first 300; essentially it didn’t matter what resumes looked like if they were in the last 200 because they were never considered.

I recommend that no more than 20% of job search time be used for applying through online job boards. A strategized plan should address other areas such as:

Networking – still the #1 method cited for securing professional jobs.

Working with Recruiters – they can easily be uncovered by using the Yellow Pages / yellowpages.com; be sure to ask them about the success they had in your field.

Job Fairs – collect business cards for follow-up later.

Targeted / Direct Contact - research and determine employers you want to work for; apply through their website and seek a networking contact through LinkedIn or other sources.

Niche Job Boards – these are usually not as heavily traveled as the bigger, broad-based job boards.

Especially in today’s challenging job market, it’s important that your job hunt plan is diversified and well-thought out.

Safeguard Your Confidential Job Search

2009-09-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

If you are protecting a current job while applying for other opportunities online, remember to safeguard your confidentiality when using major job boards. It could be highly unpleasant if a recruiter with your present employer discovers your resume in their prospecting activities.

To avoid this, be sure to look for and use the “confidentiality” features available on most credible job boards. Usually this will allow you to camouflage your resume – to remove contact information and disguise your current employment – while providing a method for communication. Another strategy is to just avoid posting your resume (essentially making it available for candidate prospecting) and instead only apply directly to jobs of interest. If you download your resume, be sure to change the file name so it also camouflages your identity.

If you’re working with recruiters, emphasize to them that your job search is confidential and that they should take great care (or check with you first) when sharing your resume. If is important, of course, in this case to be very selective in choosing recruiters.

Give References Context

2009-08-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-10T07:21:00.001-07:00

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?

2009-08-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

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.

Baby Boomers' Retirement Decisions & the Job Market

2009-07-31T04:18:00.000-07:00

We know that baby boomers have started to enter their "golden" retirement years. We also know that the impact of the economy on 401(k)s and other investment vehicles have forced many to put off the thought of retiring.

Now the early signs of a possible economic recovery include the climbing stocks. They are far from the heights they had fallen, but if we are in an actual recovery they should continue to climb. As a bit more time passes and if boomers get their confidence back, a continuing mass retirement of boomers could substantially open up the job market at a time when employers start looking to rebuild their workforce. This could lead to a reversal of the scarcity of jobs rather quickly. A note of caution with this optimism though - boomers have been scared and it may take awhile for the confidence to return, and the continued growth of global outsourcing could also have an impact.

We truly live in interesting times with its own type of uncertainty about things. But there is always hope, and a positive attitude will always prevail in dark times.

Resume Branding

2009-07-29T05:01:00.000-07:00

These days much is made of identifying your brand and featuring it on your resume. Why is this important? How can you effectively do this?

Identifying your brand can help you stand out from the multitude of other applicants. It shouldn't be lengthy. It should be unique. We all recognize brands of Nike and Harley-Davidson as their unique qualities (and very specific impressions) come to mind. This is a result of effective marketing.

A resume is a self-marketing document. However, with a resume, there's one more thing to keep in mind. Your brand needs to be relevant and attractive to potential employers. First of all use a title at the top of your resume instead of an objective statement. Then identify what you have (through exploring your achievements and strengths) that makes you the best at what you do in your career. For examples of branding, see resume samples at www.aberleneresume.com.