This week's job searching tip is from Tim Cotroneo, a recruiter in the engineering and architecture fields. As someone who reads complicated resumes every day, he has some very practical advice about how to make your resume work better.

Developing a Powerful Resume


Will the person reading your resume be able to determine in 30 seconds if you're qualified for the job? Keep that question in mind when writing your resume. In other words, don't make the reader work too hard.

As someone who scans dozens of resumes daily, I am usually able to determine in a matter of seconds if a candidate is someone I'd like to present to an employer. With that being said, here are some suggestions for helping to make sure your resume is the best that it can be.

* In one sentence indicate what your previous employer does.
As the reader, I'm looking for key words that tell me if your background matches my client's needs. So if your employer is a steel fabricator then say exactly that. Don't assume the reader knows what John Doe Company does.

* Next to your position title indicate the projects you've worked on that connect with the position you are applying for.
If your background is slightly different than the position you're applying for, then list the skills you do offer that you believe an employer would respond to.

* Include a cover letter if you think it will upgrade your chances for an interview.
If a resume doesn't give you the space to list all your pertinent experience, then a cover letter (no longer than a page) might be appropriate. Try not to rehash the exact same attributes already listed in your resume. Also, a powerful opening statement, a grabber, could be what you need to alert the reader that you're the right person for the job.

Just like in an interview, think like an employer, your resume should show how and why it is beneficial for the employer to consider you for their opening.

If you're an entry-level candidate, indicate anything special that separates you from your fellow graduates. Items like perfect attendance, teachers aide, and internships are all great indicators that you could be someone an employer should definitely consider hiring.

Resumes should be clear, concise examples of why you would be an intriguing person to interview. Remember, working hard is what you want to do for the employer. Not what the employer wants to do when reading your resume.

Visit the Resume Edge web site to find sample resumes or to have a professional resume writer revamp your resume for you. Find out about Resume Edge at this web address:
http://www.jobsearchinfo.com/edge.htm

Once you've fine-tuned your resume, the next step is to start getting it in front of employers and recruiters. We recommend using the ResumeDirector service to get your resume posted on over 90 job sites at once. Their service will post your resume on Monster, HotJobs, CareerBuilder and many other job sites. To find out more about ResumeDirector, visit this web address:
http://www.jobsearchinfo.com/rd.htm

Another method of increasing your flow of job leads is to get your resume sent directly to recruiters. The ResumeArrow resume distribution service reaches recruiters in all sectors, including those who place executives. The service asks your salary range when you sign up so recruiters who serve your particular salary range will see immediately whether they can help you. To find out more about ResumeArrow, visit this web address:
http://www.jobsearchinfo.com/dist.htm

This week's job searching tip was contributed by Tim Cotroneo, a recruiter in the engineering and architecture fields. To find out more about Tim or to visit his web site, please visit this web address:
http://www.jobsearchinfo.com/tim.htm


This article was provided by JobSearchInfo.com.  For additional career resources, please visit http://www.jobsearchinfo.com.