Sample Resume and Career Blog

Attention Grabbing Title of Resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:22:00 +0000

Writing Attention Grabbing Resume

The title of your resume must be like heading of an advertisement. It should be attention grabbing. It must tell immediately what do you qualify for.

The title of the resume should be just below your name and contact details. If required you can even provide a tagline to your title.

Examples:
Top Qualified Sales Manager
Six years of sales and marketing experience.

Entry Level Dental Assistant
Gold medalist in Dental Assistance Courses.

Please understand that the title of your resume is the most important thing in your resume. This is the thing which the employer (who is screening thousands of resumes online) see while screening online at sites like monster.com

So, make sure your resume has an attention grabbing title.

What Your Resume Speaks about You?

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 11:22:00 +0000

Resume is important to any job seekers. No matter what type of job he is seeking, no matter how much experienced he is, no matter what his skills are, resume is vitally important to any professionals living on the face of earth. Resume speaks a lot about you. This is why it is so important that you take enough care while preparing it.

Resume Is a Professional Reflection
Resume tells how much professional you are. Your value and your importance as a prospective employer can be easily decoded from the crafting of your resume. The professional ethics can be easily retrieved in the way you list up your work experiences. Many recruiters get an idea about your professionalism and your due honesty to the company where you are working in simply by reviewing your resume. Many people list up all the details of the companies they have worked in.

However, this is not a good idea at all. In fact, while doing so, you are somehow violating the non-disclosure agreement that you have made with your current company where you are still working in as an employee. If you do not list it, but express your expertise in a subtle fashion, recruiters take more interest and this ability is considered as professional mannerism, which is really worthy in the professional world.`

Resume Is a Portfolio
At its basic level, resume is a portfolio that briefly describes who you are, what the talents you have, how worthy you are in the professional world, etc. Although resume covers a limited space, but it has a wider impact since it has the ability to introduce you to the professional world. It is like a portfolio that gives a basic understanding, and sometimes an in-depth understanding, of your professional qualities. Resume works like a bridge or connector between you and your prospective employers.

Resume Is a Selling Brochure
When you would like to crack a suitable job for you, it is very essential that you must have the ability to sell your potentiality to your prospective employers. A resume does this job for you. It acts like a sellable brochure that you carry with you whenever you apply for a prospective buyer, or employer, and place it in front of him. If he likes your product, he offers you an opportunity to sell your product to him, if not you have to move on to the next prospective buyer or employer. Without a sellable brochure it becomes hard to sell the products fast. So is true with resume. Without an effective resume, it becomes hard to crack a job.

So, as you can see that your resume speaks a lot about you. So this is the high time to reconsider the crafting of your resume once more time. If you find it effective, start sending it to as many prospective employers as possible, or else, you may try to improve it either by seeking help from professional resume writer or you can try by yourself also. Since your resume speaks a lot about you, take a great care during crafting your resume before you actually start sending it to the employers.

Do You Have It All In Your Resume That Recruiters Are Looking For?

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 11:20:00 +0000

Many people become very anxious when they have to face an interview. This is why they even take the professional courses that help them in improving their skills required for appearing in an interview in an effective fashion. Unfortunately sometimes even these serious individuals do not take much care about preparing their professional resume, which is not only crucial for an effective interview session, but also an essential tool for their professional appearance.

However, since earlier days resume plays a crucial role in getting a job. It has an incredible potential and thus it needs to be crafted in an exceptionally eloquent manner. Resume lists up your education, expertise, skills and experiences, which are the most essential factors needed at the time you are about to sell your talents to your prospective employers. So, you need to know the best strategies to put these essential factors in an effective sellable format so that your employers take a serious interest in you.

Career Objective Must Be Short and Snappy
Starting with a career objective, you must put relevant keywords while writing your career objective. Do not insert any vague phrase such as "I would like to employ my talents in an extremely successful company". To the recruiters, these types of phrases do not bring any meaning. In fact, they simply decode these phrases useless and irrelevant. You have to mention specific job title with specific job industry in your career objective. Your skills are expertise should get the relevant emphasis so that recruiters can easily understand what you have in you.

Be Precise and Analytical While Stating Work Experiences
In an ideal applicant, the recruiter always looks for future growth in relation to business prospect. In simple words, recruiters always take interest in recruiting such people who can bring business to the company. Only by analyzing your resume and your past contributions to the previous companies, recruiters make their mind to offer you an employment in a respective company. If you can prepare an analytical resume reflecting your career growth, it will work like a mirror for your prospective contribution in the forthcoming companies you are applying for. So give enough emphasis on every single word that you are using while crafting your resume. Every single word should be as expressive as it should be, so that your prospective employers can easily get an essence out of it.

Be Honest and Confident
No matter how much experience you have, no matter how far you have studied, the ultimate story depends largely on your honesty and many experienced and professional recruiters can easily understand whether you are describing the truth or you are simply boasting the story at least to some extent. If you are honest, then you will never feel hesitated at the time of submitting your credentials. So always be honest and confident about describing your career profile while formatting your resume. After all, this is the most essential criteria that impress people even today.

How to Make Professional Resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 11:19:00 +0000

There are always certain rules of conduct that you need to follow when you are preparing something organized and fruitful. Creating professional resume has no exception. When you are preparing your professional resume, you must be careful about few essential codes of conduct, so that you resume gets the highest priority.

Although you can prepare your resume by yourself only, but if your resume is not getting enough hits, it is the time to reconsider. While reconsidering for crafting a professional resume, you can think of two major segments – one is online resume template or resume builder and the second one is professional resume writers. Let us know about each of these segments.

Online Resume Templates / Builders
In the first place, when you are counting on online resume templates or builders, you may browse different websites that offer plenty of free online resume samples. All you need to insert keywords like 'Graphic Designer Resume Sample' or 'Technical Resume Sample', etc. However, you must remember here that free items can not be as worthy as you actually need. So is true with free online resume. If you are sincerely looking for a professional resume that gives you enough hits, then free samples may not be those items that can make you happy.

In such case, you may need to depend on paid online resume template or paid online resume builder. This template or builder is software that comes in the price range between $19.95 and $75.95 or even more. Here you will get an extensive number of quality resume samples, cover letters, step-by-step resume making wizard, tips for interview and many more essential features that are a must-need for any job applicants. Although you have to pay a price for this software, they are certainly worthy of the price.

Professional Resume Writer
This option is certainly even better option if you can hire an expert and professional resume writer with years of extensive experiences. A professional resume writer not only helps you to improve your resume, but also aids in having an enhanced format with utmost customization. All you need to give your hired professional writer the required personal and professional details and wait till the writer produces an effective and stunning resume in front of you. He may even help you to guide with the essential tips for appearing in an interview and how to crack it. If you have already created your resume, then like a professional guide, he may help you to find out the flaws from it and suggest you about the essential techniques how to recover it.

However, before counting on a professional resume writer, you must be aware of some downside facts of hiring professional resume writer, such as, risk of identity theft or stalking can be an issue. So, before hiring a professional you must research enough to ensure his credibility and professional experiences. It is better to look through testimonials. Don’t compromise if someone asks for a lesser price, while being unable to show you relevant credibility details.

How to Write an Effective Resume Objective

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 11:17:00 +0000

You must have a goal to bring success in your life. Resume is no exception. If you can not state clearly about your career objective in your resume, chances are less that your prospective employers will take any interest in you. In simple words, you must have a career goal in your life and that must reflect from your resume. Without a clearly stated resume it is virtually impossible for the employers to decode your intention to understand your dream. So, there are few criteria for writing an effective career objective in the resume. An effective career objective must be precise, positive and so appealing that it can easily draw the attention of the readers. Here are few essential tips that you can follow in order to compose an effective career objective for your resume.

State Your Prospective Contribution Instead of Desire
It is important to keep the career objective neutral and simple. This is not the place where you become so emotional and use it to describe your desires and dreams. Rather you must use this area very practically and wisely to give insight on your potential contribution and how your service could be beneficial for the business of the respective company. So, never use such phrases like "a position where I can exploit my talents". Rather you must focus on the job requirement while writing your career objective in your resume, such as "A position as a Business Development Officer in a Professional Banking Organization". When you will be writing your career objective, you must focus on the job requirement and the position you are applying for. While writing your career objective, always place yourself in the position of the hiring manager and ask yourself what you might look for in a new applicant.

Put Only a Single Title
Never put a series of job title that you wish to accomplish in your career. It may be possible that you are a multi-talented personality, but listing all your desired titles in a single resume may make the hiring manager utterly confused and quite likely this may not turn out to be fruitful for you either. So omit putting multitudes of job titles in a single resume. Respect your talents and your prospective employers and don’t create a laundry list in the name of career objective. Repeatedly ask yourself, "What kind of job you are actually looking for right at present?" and look for an answer from your own wisdom.

Make It Precise and Short
Always remember writing career objective and writing an essay is entirely different things to do. In fact, these two are just opposite to each other. You must write your career objective in a precise format. It must be short. No exception. At its highest extent, you can make it two sentences long, but not more than that. Composing a long objective never brings much attention, but it spoils the prospective opportunity at the first place. Do not use complex sentence. Make it as simple as possible. After writing a career objective in your resume, try to consider it from employer's perspective and reconsider if you find anything not so appealing.

Difference between CV and Resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 05:40:00 +0000

You may have heard "curriculum vitae" being used to describe a resume. Although they are slightly different documents, some people use the terms inter-changeably. You may want to use a curriculum vitae (c.v.) if you are applying to a position which is academic or research-oriented. Many graduate students use a C.V. if they are applying to advanced programs or to employers such as those just mentioned.

Often referred to as a "vitae." A vitae is very similar to a resume. It highlights a speaker's education and key jobs held. A speaker in the academic community usually uses curriculum vitae. A special type of resume traditionally used within the academic community. Earned degrees, teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, and related activities are featured. Unlike a resume, a CV tends to be longer and more informational than promotional in tone.

The primary difference between a CV and a resume is the length and the purpose. A resume is a one or two page summary of your skills, experience and education. A goal of resume writing is to be brief and concise since, at best; the resume reader will spend a minute or so reviewing your qualifications.

A Curriculum Vitae, commonly referred to as CV, is a longer (two or more pages), more detailed synopsis. It includes a summary of your educational and academic backgrounds as well as teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, awards, honors, affiliations and other details.
A curriculum vitae, meaning "course of one's life, is a document that gives much more detail than does a resume about your academic and professional accomplishments.

When seeking a faculty, research, or leadership position at an academic or scientific organization, you need a special resume called curriculum vitae. Candidates who use a CV have an educational background directly related to the positions they seek, education is always featured first. Even after twenty years of research, your degrees and the schools where you earned them will overshadow your experience.

Following are the things to include in a CV

Like a resume, your CV should include your name, contact information, education, skills and experience. In addition to the basics, a CV includes research and teaching experience, publications, grants and fellowships, professional associations and licenses, awards and other information relevant to the position you are applying for. Start by making a list of all your background information, and then organize it into categories. Make sure you include dates on all the publications you include.

Name dropping is more common in CV’s than in resumes. For example, if you performed research under a certain professor, you would probably include her name and title. Science and academia are small worlds, and it is likely that a prospective employer will have heard of a given specialist in her own field. Similarly, if you went on clinical rotations at a given hospital, name it; your future employer might have hospital privileges there.

Types of Resumes

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 12:19:00 +0000

Creating a resume is the very best way to document your career and accomplishments. If you build and maintain one as you move along your career path, you'll be able to capture key achievements and results while they are still fresh in your mind.
The resume format that you choose should be based on your work experience and the strategy to make that experience seem relevant to the job that you are applying to.
The majority of resumes follow a similar format by listing most recent jobs and work experience first. This is called a "reverse chronological" format. But there is also the "skills-based" or "functional" format that highlights what you can do rather than what you have done. Some find that blending these two formats is the best way to summarize their experience and capabilities. These are called as “Hybrid resume”

There are three main types of resumes:
1. Reverse chronological resumes
2. Functional resumes
3. Hybrid resumes

Reverse chronological resumes list the candidate’s work experience starting from the most recent one based on the premise that it is also the most relevant to the job. That is often true for career-oriented people looking for another job in the same field. The reverse chronological resume is the most commonly used resume format.
Using this format is best for those who have had a steady work history and a record of increased responsibility and career growth. This is also a great format if the companies you worked for, especially your most recent employer, are well-recognized and well-respected within your industry.

Functional resumes list a candidate’s experiences by skill areas. This resume format is used most often when a person decides to switch career, when a person has held many different types of jobs during his career, or when there has been a prolonged period of absence from the workforce. The focus is therefore no longer on “career progression,” but instead on “transferable skills.”
The functional resume includes a career objective that states what type of job you desire or a career summary that encapsulates your work history, education and strengths in a sentence or two.

Hybrid resumes possess some characteristics of both reverse chronological resumes and functional resumes. For instance, they can list a candidate’s work experience by skill areas, but also include the periods of employment.
It might begin with a summary of qualifications and bulleted skills, followed by a chronicled job listing that demonstrates, through measurable results, how you used or applied the skills you just highlighted.

Those are the three main types of resumes. Do not restrict yourself to the above however. If you think there is a better way to grab the employer’s attention, go for it. At the end of the day, if you get an interview, you must have done something right.

Dressing for an Interview

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 12:17:00 +0000

One of the main purposes of an interview is to present yourself to a potential employer in a manner that reflects a highly polished and professional image. The first judgment an interviewer makes is going to be based on how you look and what you are wearing. The first impression you make on a potential employer is the most important one. That's why it's always important to dress professionally for a job interview, even if the work environment is casual.

You'll want that first impression to be not just a good one, but, a great one. The candidate dressed in a suit and tie is going to make a much better impression than the candidate dressed in scruffy jeans and a t-shirt.

For Men
Here are some things that a man must not forget for the interview. Belt, tie, dark socks, conservative leather shoes, neat & professional hairstyle, neatly trimmed nails, portfolio or briefcase.

A conservative business suit is almost always the rule. A well-tailored or fitted suit coat and trousers will go a long way in helping you present yourself professionally and confidently. Acceptable colors continue to be darker shades and hues including grays, blues (navy), and black. Pattern designs such as pin stripes and plaids are acceptable as long as they are subtle.

Although, a plain white or off-white shirt is always a winner. Dressing in your best attire for the interview also means having your shoes shined, if not new. Wearing a new suit and tie with an old, dirty pair of shoes that need resoled would be like bad for the interview. Laced shoes are the general rule; loafers are a little too casual. The color of your socks should complement or match the rest of your outfit. See-through socks are not considered appropriate. Likewise, a leather belt that matches the color of your shoes and has a small buckle is a good choice.

For Women
Dressing in a conservative business suit is the best way to present a professional image. As has been stated, the suit should fit well and make you feel good about yourself. Ask clothing salespersons for assistance in determining what is currently acceptable for skirt length; generally, length should not be too long nor too short. You should be able to sit comfortably wearing that skirt

The grays and blues are standard; women tend to be able to get away with wearing more of a variety of colors. Oftentimes, bright colors including reds, maroon, and various shades of blue and even green are acceptable. Women are also usually able to wear various fabrics without appearing unprofessional.

Your blouse should complement the suit in a conservative fashion. It should not be too revealing, high around the neck, nor have too many ruffles or frills. See-through blouses are discouraged for the professional interview.
Stockings are a must and should be flesh-toned or colors very close to it. Avoid color or patterns that would be distracting.

Shoes should be sensibly selected in a way that is not intended to make a statement. High heels and open toes are to be avoided.

Writing a Cover Letter

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 06:28:00 +0000

There is a format for writing a cover letter. Below is a guideline for writing a good looking and a well organized cover letter.

First paragraph
In the first paragraph mention the following things:

- Why you are writing (include which position you are applying for)
- How you learned of the position
- Your current status (student or employed)
- If you have completed your degree or when you expect to graduate
- Make a preliminary assertion as to your strength as a candidate

Middle paragraphs
This paragraph is important from the point of view of detailing

- Present specific examples highlighting how your background, experience, achievements, and/or qualifications meet the needs of the position description, department and/or organization
- Explain your interest in the organization
- Discuss your knowledge of and interest in some of the specific characteristics of the job, organization, and/or department
- Address if your profile differs from the job description

Final paragraph
Here you can indicate:
- How you can best be reached
- What is enclosed with the letter
- Your availability for and interest in an interview
- Follow up action on your part
- Thank the reader for his or her consideration

Structure and Details
Appropriately address the salutation to a specific person, not job title (spell their name correctly). Organize your letter well. Before giving your cover letter check for any spelling or grammar errors. Use an appropriate font type and size – Not to big or not to small. Don’t forget to leave contact information in the letter. Write in the tone of a confident (but not arrogant) professional. Be direct.

A cover letter is your opportunity to tell the employer what you are applying for and why you are a good match for the position and the organization. You should submit a cover letter with every resume, whether for an internship or job. While a resume provides a summary of your skills and experience, a cover letter takes it a step further by allowing you to highlight your specific qualifications.

What is a Cover Letter?

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 06:27:00 +0000

A cover letter is a letter to an employer that says which position you're applying for and includes an overview of your skills. You should always include a cover letter when you mail or E-mail your resume to an employer, even if they don't ask for one. Cover letters are actually a great way to set yourself apart from the rest if you write it correctly.

Cover letters allow you to actually get your personalized message across to the hiring manager or possible interviewer. The key is to be brief and direct...just like a resume...the person on the other end will want to quickly read your cover letter...so make sure you don't write a short story.
Use the cover letter to peak the interest of the reader. The purpose here is to get the reader interested so that he/she will want to examine your resume.

Everyone who sends out a resume does need a Cover Letter! Even if the cover letter never "came up" in conversation or wasn't mentioned in an advertisement, it's expected that you will write one.

Your cover letter can be A Hard Copy or in Email format. The main difference between e-mail and hard copy cover letter is format: your signature block (address, etc.) goes below your name in e-mail, while it goes at the top of the page on hard copy. Of course you won't have a handwritten signature on e-mail, but don't forget this on hard copy.

Here are some of the things that one should never forget to include in the Cover Letter:

- The contact name and company name are correct.
- Letter mentions the position you are applying for and where it was listed.
- Your personal information (name, address, home phone, cell phone, email) is all included and correct.
- If you have a contact at the company, you have mentioned him or her in the first paragraph.
- Font is 10 or 12 points and easy to read (Times New Roman or Arial, for example).
- You have read the cover letter out loud to make sure there are no missing words.
- Cover Letter is printed on good quality bond paper that matches your resume.
- You have kept a copy for your records.
- Letter is signed if you are mailing it.

Things to Avoid During an Interview

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 07:07:00 +0000

When appearing for a job interview, always keep in mind that the first impression is the last impression. Even the smallest mistake on your part can prove to be very costly.

It is a known fact that everyone tries to be on their best behavior while appearing for an interview. However, in our efforts to do everything right and answer questions correctly; we sometimes forget to watch out for the smallest and perhaps the most important things that should never be underestimated.

Here are a few things you must watch out for while appearing for a job interview -

Being Late – Don’t be late for the interview. It is OK to show up early.

Cribbing & Complaining - Refrain from saying badly about your previous employer and colleagues. No one wants to listen to someone who only knows how to complain.

Being Nervous and Excessively Negative - The way you conduct yourself says a lot about your personality. Make sure that you are physically as well as mentally present while appearing for your interview. Keep your cool and give it your best shot. And most important - be positive.

Not stating the Facts - In your efforts to make a good impression, never give in to temptations of lying. Answer questions truthfully and be honest about your work experience and qualifications. Don’t give false facts.

Going On and On - When the interviewer gives you the chance to speak, stick to what is important. Being over talkative and opinionated can adversely affect your interview. Be a good listener.

Uselessly Trying to be Funny - You might be a funny person and you might enjoy cracking jokes every now and then. Don't do it during your interview. Remember - there is a place and time for everything. Refrain from cracking silly jokes and testing your interviewer's patience.

Being Unaware - Before appearing for any interview, it is good practice to research the Company background and other details. Prepare yourself for obvious questions and do not forget to carry your latest, updated resume and other important papers.

Bad Manners - Don’t smoke, don’t chew gum and don’t pick your nose during an interview. Don’t smoke and go for the interview. Don’t sit unless you are asked for. Don’t make faces during an interview even if you don’t like the questions or the place.

Asking About Salary and Benefits - The appropriate time to discuss issues of compensation is when a firm offer is on the table. Don’t bring up the topic prematurely. (Some people don't consider this as a bad interview habit.)

Keep in mind the above mentioned thing which are to be avoided during the interview and I am sure it will all go nicely and in your favour. Best of luck for the interview and perform well.

Main Points of Resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 07:03:00 +0000

Personal Information
Name - your full name, typed in title case.
Address - your address, written out in full, without abbreviations. In fact, it's better to avoid abbreviations anywhere in your resume.
Telephone - your home phone number with area code, also give your mobile number if you have one.

Job Goal
In one sentence, describe your job goal. This tells the employer exactly what type of work you're looking for. Try to link your job goal to the job you're applying for.
Related Skills - List the special abilities and skills that relate to the job you're applying for. They can be from paid or unpaid work, volunteer experience, and even hobbies.

Education
List your education, starting with the most recent diploma or training course and working backwards. Include the name and city or town of each school you attended (secondary and beyond), the type of programmes you took, your areas of interest, and the years you completed. Certificates or diplomas should also be listed, including those for mini courses like a computer or software course, first-aid, small engine repair, or any other training that might be useful to the job you want.

Additional Knowledge
Use this section to include such things as the languages you speak, software programmes you know, and other abilities that relate to the job. If there is a lot of information, break it into separate sections with specific headings. The point is to get everything into your resume that shows why you are the right person for the job.
List all the skills you have in a bulleted format.

Interests / Activities
Briefly outline a few of your interests and activities that demonstrate something about you. Be sure to mention achievements or awards you may have received. If you have volunteer experience that is relevant to the job, make sure you put it in, transferable skills are important. Do not mention all the hobbies you have over here. This might do a bit more to the resume. List only main hobbies or hobbies related to the job applied for.

References
References are not included in your resume, but you should have them ready. Think about who could be your references and get their permission before you pass the names and numbers. Type the names, addresses, and phone numbers of up to three references on a separate piece of paper, which matches your resume. Keep your reference list as up-to date as possible. If you can, give your reference an idea of the type of job you are applying for, and whenever possible, let them know when you think an employer will be calling them, so they can be available and will have some time to think about what to say.

Whom can you ask to be a reference?

Someone from your school (teacher, guidance counsellor, coach)
Someone you've worked for (summer, part- time employer)
Someone you've worked for on a casual basis
Someone you've helped (as a volunteer or as a friend)
Someone whose opinion is respected (elder, minister, community leader)

Writing a Perfect Resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Tue, 13 Mar 2007 07:00:00 +0000

Your resume is the first step towards corporate stardom, so it is imperative that it looks good and reads right. Your resume is your first reflection. People who haven't met you form a mental impression about you just by going through your resume. A company official asks for a resume so that he/she can frame questions according to the facts mentioned in the resume. This makes it imperative that you have an organized and impressive resume. It should be clear yet descriptive and should portray your best qualities. So, how to go about preparing your resume?

Write it in an order: Be careful about what you write. For example, all your personal details like name, address, etc must be clubbed together in one column. Similarly, all your academic details should be grouped together. There should be a logical sequence of putting down things. You should follow a logical track which will be appropriate.

Presentation is important: As the saying goes, "First impression is the last impression." Remember to focus on the way in which you present your data. The font and the size of the font should be taken care of. Try and keep the colour of the font either black or blue and do not add colours to your resume as that makes it looks childish. Leave a line or two between important points and maybe you could make the important data bold. In case you are mentioning a couple of points, for example, your achievements, then you could use bullets.

Do not be too elaborate: Mention things in brief but do mention all that you feel is important for the panel to make note of. Do not elaborate too much about something. For example, if you are mentioning about any training which you have undertaken, then mention the purpose of the training, its duration, location and what you learnt from it. Keep it to a maximum of four lines. For instance if, you have trained in a software company, then maybe you could put it down as – Trained on databases in xyz company for a period of three months. Leant how to work on Oracle. I also gained a lot of exposure about the workings of the software industry. Freshers must keep their resume restricted to two pages, preferably.

Your selling points: Summarize your top 2 to 5 selling points right under your name. For example, if you are a Game Producer what do you think are the most important selling points to a potential hiring manager? Answer: type of games you have created, size of budgets managed, whether you managed internal or external teams, and the number of titles you brought to market.

Be honest: Write only what is true to the best of your knowledge for it can be verified at any point of time. Carry your certificates along with you for the interview.

Last, but not the least, keep your resume in a folders or a file. Do not fold your resume if you are handing it over to the employer. In case of posting the resume, make a 3 folded paper not more then that.

Resume Writing

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 10:30:00 +0000

Resume is a self-promotional document that presents you in the best possible light, for the purpose of getting invited to a job interview. It's not an official personnel document. It's not a job application. It's not a "career obituary"! And it's not a confessional.

It's not just about past jobs! It's about YOU, and how you performed and what you accomplished in those past jobs--especially those accomplishments that are most relevant to the work you want to do next. A good resume predicts how you might perform in that desired future job.

While writing your resume there are few points that you should remember. Don’t ever leave out your Job Objective! If you don't show a sense of direction, employers won't be interested. Have a clearly stated goal. Decide on a job target (or "job objective") that can be stated in about 5 or 6 words. Don’t use more then 5 to 8 words, because telling more indicates lack of clarity.

There are times when you have gaps in your work experience. Don’t be afraid about the gaps. Include everything you did in those days rather than saying that, you took a gap. For example, you can include all the work done even if unpaid or charity. Or Maternity leave, Study leave, etc. Students can make their resume look neater by listing seasonal jobs very simply, such as "Spring 1996" or "Summer 1996" rather than 6/96 to 9/96. This adds lots of freshness to the resume. Add every small detail like promotions activities, etc. But it is also to be remembered that over doing or writing may led to rejection. Just go around 6-7 years back not more than that unless its very big or important activity that you have done.

The best way to impress an employer is the “Problem – Action – Result” Method. First you state the problem that existed in your workplace, then you describe what you did about it, and finally you point out the beneficial results. This adds lots of importance to your resume.

Including hobbies in a resume is a nice idea. But don't include hobbies on a resume unless the activity is somehow relevant to your job objective, or clearly reveals a characteristic that supports your job objective. For example, a hobby of Book Reading (vocabulary, grammatical skills) might seem relevant to some job objectives (Secretary) but not to others.

Now some minute detailing that needs to be remembered while making that very important resume. Always mention the prefix “Mr.” or “Mrs.” or “Miss” before your name. If your name is Kiran or a name which is common in both sexes, the employer might get confused while addressing you. Mentioning all the degrees you have is not enough! You must also mention the extra activities done by you. It will add to the treat if the activity is related to the work you are applying for.

Use simple while or ivory paper for your resume. Using a fancy or think paper out does the content of the resume making it look like a brochure with only design and no content (unless you are applying for a designers post)

Fairing in an Interview

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 10:29:00 +0000

A success interview is very essential in order for you to close in an offer. You’ve just got a call for interview for a seemingly wonderful job! Now what? Here are some tips and strategies for effective interviewing from preparation through follow up.

Do a bit for research before going for the interview. Gathering background information on employers is a crucial element in successful interview preparation. Know the interviewer's name and use it during the interview. You will need to be prepared to answer the questions "What do your know about our company"? & "Why do you want to work with us?" Knowing as much as possible about the company's past performance and future plans can make your interview more interactive. Before the interview review the company's web site, on the website look out for recent awards won by the company or some other media involvement by the company.

Practice with a friend or relative or record your responses so you can replay the interview and see how well you did. Practice makes perfect (or at least leads to improvement). Prepare answers to commonly asked interview questions. Questions like “What are you hobbies?”, “What are your ambitions?” etc. Also the most important question that many interviewer’s ask is “Why did you leave (or are you seeking to leave) your company?” The answer to this question must be short and clear. Calmly describe the reason for your departure, and don't go into details unless asked. Stay with the facts of what happened, what you did, how you felt and what you learned. Then describe how you will handle things differently in the future.

Being on time is another major aspect of a good interview. It is very important to be on time for the interview. On time means ten to fifteen minutes early. Remember to bring an extra copy of your resume and a list of references. During the interview try to remain as calm as possible. Ask for clarification if you're not sure what's been asked and remember that it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to frame your responses so you can be sure too fully answer the question.

And remember it’s not always you who have to answer all the questions. There are some questions which you must ask in an interview like "What are you most hoping to find in the person you hire?" and "What would be my first priorities on the job?" The earlier you can ask these questions, the sooner you can start tailoring your answers to the employer's priorities. At the end of the interview, ask, "Based on what we've talked about today, I feel good about the position. Do you have any concerns about my ability to do the job?" Often, that gives you a chance to counter any objections.

End the interview with a thank you to the interviewer and restate your interest in the position. Then follow-up with a personal Thank You note restating your interest. You can send follow-up letters through email if this is the way you and the potential employer have been communicating all along.

What should you expect in an Interview?

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 04:09:00 +0000

Once you have sent in your résumé and the interviewer likes what they see, they will set up an interview with you. If you have never been on an interview before, let’s just say a lot depends on it. Your résumé counts for a lot but an interviewer wants to hear from you what experience you have and what you have to offer their company.

First off, when you go for an interview no matter what type of job it is, you want to make a great impression. Make sure you dress the part, for women, you can wear a pants suit or a skirt with a nice top and a blazer and a small pair of heels. Never wear sandals to an interview. Don’t wear over powering colors; keep it simple with black, brown, blue or tan. For men, wear a suit or dress pants and a nice, neat button down shirt. Wear a pair of dress shoes, never wear sneakers.

Now you are dressed for success, always bring an additional copy of your résumé with you. They have a copy but you want to bring them another so it can serve as a reminder of who you are and your skills. Remember to keep calm; don’t be nervous it is only an interview. Don’t throw your arms over the back of the chair but don’t appear to be too uptight.

What to expect, the interviewer will ask you what skills you have and to review your job function at your last place of employment. Then they will ask you why you are leaving or why you have left. Keep your answers short. Be as personable as you can. Not only do they want someone with experience and can handle the job but they want someone who they feel will get along and fit in with their other employees.

Don’t lie on your résumé, if you do and they ask you about the one thing you may have embellished then it will show when you try to answer the question because you maybe caught off guard with that question. Keep it real and keep in honest. Answer all questions with answers not other questions. If you have the experience they want, if you didn’t you wouldn’t get an interview. They are looking now to see how you would fit in to their company.

What jobs to apply for

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 04:08:00 +0000

Some people when they are unemployed will figure, if I apply for every job I see I am bound to get one. Sounds good in theory but it really is a waste of your time. If you sent your résumé to every classified ad in the paper, it will cost you a lot of money. Write down what jobs you have had in the past and then make a list of what functions you performed and then a list of the skills you have. Once you have done that, you can begin looking through the paper for a job.

There are many ads in the paper that may have no experience necessary. Only if those ads are legit then apply. Some jobs with that type of description are jobs that have you selling products door to door or in parking lots. Make sure it is an actual job, call and ask a lot of questions.

Apply for jobs you know you can do, don’t apply for a job you think you can do and figure if you get the job they have to teach you anyway. Don’t embarrass yourself; if you can’t do the job don’t apply. When you get there don’t assume they are going to train you as if you don’t anything. Most companies will ask you what you know and begin training you from that point.

Apply for jobs that you know you can reach by any means of transportation. If your cars breaks down you have to make sure you can get there by bus or train. Apply for jobs within a 20 mile radius, don’t take a job with over an hour of travel time because you run the risk of being late. Most likely it will happen often.

Apply for a job that accommodates your home life, especially if you have kids. You don’t want a job where you are constantly leaving early to pick up the kids from school or if they have a school holiday. Make all of those arrangements in case you get the job and not after it.

Apply for a job that you would be comfortable doing. If you have the skills and the situations at home are perfect then you will be more relaxed looking for work if you know everything is settled. Looking for the perfect job is not always easy but it is not impossible.

Things you should do in an interview

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 04:06:00 +0000

If you have scheduled an interview with a company you sent a résumé to, there are some things that you need to do in order to get this job. The first rule of thumb is always dress to impress. Women should wear a skirt with a pump heel, nothing too high, a nice blouse and a blazer of cover jacket. Pant suits are acceptable as well. Never wear jeans or sandals to an interview. Men should wear a suit of a pair of dress slacks, a button down shirt and a tie. Always wear dress shoes, never sneakers.

Make sure right before you go in that your hair is in place and you look presentable. Make sure you have a copy of your résumé with you. A copy of the cover letter is not necessary, just the résumé will do. Keep it in a manila envelope of folder, don’t carry it in, it may get damaged some how on the way in.

When you go in, always shake the interviewers hand; make sure it is a firm handshake. It shows a kind of confidence. That is the key in an interview, confidence. If you know your résumé matches the company’s criteria, then all you need to do to get the job is show the interviewer you can do they job and yet fit in well with their company.

Keep your answers short and to the point. Always think about your answers but do not take too long in figuring them out. Do not discuss money, if the interviewer brings it up it is ok but don’t broach the subject yourself. An interviewer no matter what type of job it is is looking for the best person qualified and the best person to fit in.

Don’t brag about your experience, it is a turn off and don’t belittle your boss or co workers from your previous job either. A potential employer doesn’t want a selfish person and they do not want someone who can’t get along with others, even if you make it the other person’s fault.

Be personable but professional, be respectful and courteous. The ball is in your court, they need someone for a job and you need one. Try to remember you can help each other out and you may have a good chance of getting the job.

Should I Write A Cover Letter?

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 10:38:00 +0000

When you are mailing in a résumé, it is necessary to send a cover letter. The cover letter is your way of introducing yourself and your résumé. The cover letter should have your name, address and phone number on the top of the page. Then just like a business letter, you have the company’s information on the left margin. If in the classified ad it has a contact name out that was your greeting, if it said something like Human Resources address you letter to Sir or Madam. Try not to write To Whom It May Concern, it really isn’t necessary to do that. They did not address their ad that way so you don’t need to address their letter that way.

When writing your cover letter, mention the ad that you are responding to as well as your interest in applying for the job. Try to summarize your skills into one of two lines in the cover letter but do not recite your résumé, that’s why you attached it to the letter. Try to keep the letter short maybe a paragraph or two. Explain why in the cover letter that you make a good asset to their company. Try to show a little of your personality in your letter but keep it professional.

Depending on the ad, sometimes it will ask you for salary history and requirements. It is Ok to incorporate these into your letter. Make sure your sentences flow and that there are no grammatical errors. Do not hand write a cover letter, it shows a great lack of professionalism. Borrow a computer or typewriter from someone if you don’t have one. Here is a checklist to follow when writing your cover letter:

Use the same type of paper you have used for your résumé.
Make sure that all of your words and names are spelled correctly.
Sell yourself a little; make them interested in you enough to give you an interview.
Make sure you are sending an original and not a copy. Sign the original in blue or black ink.
It is ok to request an interview, you can simple say, I am interested in possibly coming in for an interview and discussing my résumé further.
If you wish to research the company’s background incorporate what they do and why you can be an asset to them.

How to write a resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 06:27:00 +0000

If you are looking for a job you need a résumé. Even if you are applying for a job in Burger King bring a résumé. Your résumé should have your name, address and phone number on it. Do not put cell phones on there because if a potential employer calls you on it and you don’t have the greatest reception, it is going to be a big turn off for them.
You don’t need to date the résumé, when you send a cover letter with it you can date that page.

The next thing you want to put on there is your objective, try to keep that to one or two lines. Keep it to the point. Try to make an objective where it will benefit the employer as well. You want to keep the entire résumé contained to one page, if you have to go to two keep it short. There is no interviewer who wants to read a multi page résumé.

Next thing to should have is your experience. Some résumés have education first, this can go either way but a potential employee wants to see what you can do and what you were doing before applying for the job. Don’t make them scan it; put it first where they could see it. List your last job first and so on. Tell them what they want to know in a couple of line. Put the company name and location, just the city will suffice. Then only put the years at the end of that line. Give a brief description of that job and list the important functions first.

Then is the education section, if you have been out of high school for more than 10 years, there is no need to write it. The same goes for job experience, don’t list jobs you had more than 6 years ago. They don’t want to see that far back. List the most recent school last and so on. If you did not go to college or are in the process of going, leave open the year to at the end. For example, XYZ University, Any town, USA 04 to .

Then you can list any achievements or special citations you have received pertaining to work. Then you can write down References available upon request. Make a list of 5 references; try to make them professional references.

Choosing the Perfect Resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 04:24:00 +0000

If you are preparing to write a résumé, you may be aware that are more than one style. There are 3 major styles of résumé writing, there is the Chronological résumé, the Functional résumé and the Combination résumé. We will go over each style and see if it will work for you. All a résumé is is a sheet of paper with all of your accomplishment in both education and work experience. An interviewer is looking for someone to hire who can get the job done and have the experience they are looking for.

The chronological résumé is formatted to show your employment experience and your education in time order. This can be done with the most current time or from oldest to newest. When an interviewer looks at a résumé he or she looks for the important information first. The will want to see what you did before or while you are applying for their job. They don’t really want to see what you did 10 years ago so try to use the most current jobs first, so they will look at what they need to know and not have to scan the entire document looking for simple information.

The functional résumé is a list of your work experience and skills that you posses and sort them out by job function or skill. This style résumé is not used that often. It works in the sense that the jobs are listed by job function. Interviewers want to see what you can do for them and if the job you were at before or still on is similar to what they need they want to see it. Interviews do not want to spend time reading a lot of information that is not pertinent to them, that is why it is recommended that you keep your résumé short and to the point.

The combination résumé is just that, a combination of a chronological and a functional résumé. You begin with a functional list of jobs and then a chronological list of employers. This style of résumé writing is not recommended. It comes off too confusing. If you send a résumé like that you may not get a chance to explain it, if an interviewer does not like your résumé they will just toss it aside.

Remember a résumé is a reflection of you. If you present a sloppy résumé, they will not give you a chance. A good résumé will guarantee you an interview.

How good is online resume posting

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 04:13:00 +0000

The newest and some say the greatest thing to happen to job searching in a long time is the online résumé posting. There are many companies out there that shall remain nameless who base an entire website on posting other people’s résumés. There are many people who do sign up for this service. Some services charge to use their site. The premise is that you post your résumé and then you wait for a company or employers to check it out and become interested in your posting and then they call you.

This service is great if you are looking elsewhere for work, if you are solely putting all of your eggs in one basket then you may be waiting for a long time. Sometimes it takes weeks to get a hit or a lead. Now, it would be a shame if you paid for a service and did not get one hit. You really have a better chance of looking through the newspaper and sending your resume out to 10 jobs. You will at least hear from 7 out of the ten jobs, unless it is not what you applied for.

It is all a hit and miss idea. Unless you have a spectacular résumé where you have exactly what people are looking for. You could be waiting a very long time. What makes this worse is that you may be paying for it by the week or by the month. If you have your heart set on doing this then try to find a service that will post your résumé for free. Then you have nothing to lose except time.

Technology is great and the concept of posting your résumé online is great. It does not guarantee job and some do not claim to do that but for people who need work and are constantly looking then maybe this service is not for you. At least if you do this, look in the newspapers or in penny savers or even on the online classified in your local paper. Just do not let this be your only means of looking for a job.

Some people have had great success with this service and that is great for them but there are just as many if not more that have no success and they only thing they do have is less money for the cost of the service.

E-mailing your resume

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 04:12:00 +0000

Another great breakthrough in technology is the e-mail. Potential employers have thought of yet another way to avoid a pile of paper on their desk. The will advertise for an employee and instead of a fax number or mailing address it will have an e-mail address. This can be good and bad for different reasons. The good is that if your résumé is already stored on your computer then all you have to do is put it in a folder and sent it as an attachment, with your cover letter being your e-mail page. There are no busy numbers for fax machines and you don’t have to leave the house.

The bad is that you don’t know if they received it or even read it. Some computers can’t read certain files. If you saved it on a word document from 2001 windows, a new computer may not be able to open it. Even with upgraded machines, some computers can’t read or open certain files. Then your next thought is I will send a did you get my résumé e-mail and then you don’t look so professional. You look paranoid that they did not get it.

So now what to do you do. If there is no other way to get your résumé to these potential employers then do the e-mail, try save it as best you can. But in the body of the e-mail make a note saying, you are attaching a file of my résumé with this e-mail. If you have any trouble opening it please contact me by phone and leave your number which should also be on your résumé or please send me an e-mail and I will resend it.

Another way would be to call the company; there is sometimes a phone number or the name of the company as well. Call to follow up with the human resources department and if they confirm they had trouble opening your file ask them for a fax number or an address because you really want to apply for that job.

E-mailing is great and more and more people are doing it. So make sure you have an upgraded computer save it to the file as best as you can. Then if you want follow up with an e-mail but wait at 2 days. If you don’t hear something first then call and find out what happened.

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:25:00 +0000

Do’s and Don’ts for Job Searching

There are many things while looking for a job that you should do and there are some things that are don’ts here are some key important factors you will need to know.

Things you should do
• Create a nice clean and concise résumé
• Include a cover letter with your résumé,
• Proof read your résumé over and over again
• Proof read your cover letter
• List any important job functions that you have that pertain to the ad
• Keep your résumé a minimum of 2 pages, one is preferred.
• Take a copy of your résumé when you interview, even though you already sent one
• Dress to impress your interviewer
• Relax while interviewing

Things you should not do
• embellish information on your résumé
• apply for jobs you are not qualifies for
• bring up the subject of pay in an interview
• be late or reschedule
• include your cell number on your résumé,
• make a book out of your résumé,
• brag or sound arrogant about your skill

If you follow these rules and some simple advice you will have a successful interview. These things are very important when looking for a job and there are plenty of other do’s and do not’s but these are the most basic and the most important. All of these tips exist for a reason, if you want a successful interview keep them in mind, you may not get the job all the time and we are not saying if you do these things you will get the job either.

By a successful interview we mean that you did things you should have and did not do things you should not have. If you followed these rules then you will see that you have a clear and correct résumé, you have perfect interview clothes and you are relaxed in the interview and not too uptight. With the job market as it is, you have to fight for every job and that means doing the process better than everyone else.

If your experience fits the job and you have a great personality and you can show the interviewer how you can help their company as well as fit in with the staff. Then you have a real good shot of getting that job. Keep yourself true and don’t come off as someone you are not.

Do you need recommendations in interview?

noreply@blogger.com (jimkarter) — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:22:00 +0000

When you are applying for a job, most résumé’s will have on the bottom “References available upon request”. A good percentage of the time a potential employer will not ask for them but there a few that do. The problem with these recommendations is that it is hard to get a recommendation from a former employer. The reason for you not working there can only be for 3 reasons.

The first reason is you quit and why would an employer who you just left write you a glowing letter of recommendation. Not too likely to happen.

The second reason is that you got fired, it doesn’t matter what the reason is. If you get fired then there really is no way of ever getting a great letter of recommendation. So why even try to go that way.

The third reason and possibly the best way is if you got laid off. Most employers in that situation will feel bad for letting you go and they will offer a letter. Take them up on it right away. It could be a general letter; you could make copies if you wish. A boss of a former employee does not write letters or recommendation.

If you go to college, you may want to get a letter or two from a professor. This can show your attendance in class as well as your grades if you wish. It shows you come to class as you would to work and with the grades or progress it will show the interviewer how hard you work.

What is not a great idea is having friends or family write letters because they basically carry no weight with an employer. Why? Because they are your friends and family members. Why would they not have something great to say about you?

Recommendation or references can be tricky and most employers know that because they may be in the safe position that is why they need to hire someone. But there are some stuffy employers who want to see them just to see if you can get them. Your work ethic should stand alone and he is looking at you, so they are getting a feel for what you are like, so why need recommendations.

Some employment applications ask for three at the bottom, they ask for 2 personal and one professional. You may be able to get by with personal reference. The employer never calls any way.