Resumes:

A resume is one of the most important tools available to a candidate. In designing a resume, one must remember that clients may see thousands of resumes for a popular career position in an equally popular industry. Because of the volume of resumes received, these clients do not have the time to ‘interpret’ your resume or adjust to ‘unique’ resume styles. Clients select a ‘preferred’ group of candidates by exclusion. In general, they want resumes that transmit relevant information in a clear concise manner and in a recognizable format.

The following suggestions are offered to assist you in creating your resume.

General:

• Remember that the purpose of a resume is to motivate a potential employer to meet you.

• Keep the text clean, concise and easy to read.

• Always include a specific career objective on the resume – don’t make anyone guess what it is you really want to do.

• Attach a customized cover letter.

Formatting:

• Don’t just rely on spell-check; check your resume for grammatical errors. Tip: read your resume starting at the last word on the last page and work your way to the first page. You’ll be amazed at the typos you will catch.

• Remember that many printers cannot print below .3” from the bottom of the paper. Paper Size should be 8.5” x 11”.

• Keep your resume to 2 pages (maximum 3) in length.

• Do not get carried away with graphics, unless you’re applying for a position as Graphic Designer.

• Make the font size legible and resist colors because most people will print your resume using only black ink.

• If you don’t know how to set-up/type your resume, seek assistance from someone who has more experience than yourself.

Your Resume Information:

• Insure accurate timelines for employment history. Don’t just fill ‘gaps’ in your month/year employment dates; try to explain them.

• Always include your achievements.

• Do not include your photograph, marital status, children (if any), citizenship, Date of Birth or SIN.

• Use a personal e-mail address not one owned by your employer.

• Be selective about who has your personal information; don’t spam your resume.

• Include a phone number with call answering that you can access throughout the day and evening.

Interviews:

All things being equal, interviewers ultimately hire the people that impress them the most. If you are invited to an interview, you have passed the first level of client screening. Now comes the real test. Interview technique, style, grooming, presentation skills, interest, enthusiasm and innumerable ‘soft’ skills will be assessed.

The following suggestions are offered to assist you. Executives may feel that many of the points are ridiculously obvious but we have seen ‘brain cramps’ attack candidates at all levels. Remember, you only have one chance to make an outstanding first impression.

Preparation:

• Honestly assess your desire, rationale and willingness to make this career move.

• Evaluate your goals and objectives – are you being realistic?

• Be honest about your career objectives, as any career advice based on false statements would be useless.

• Research the company and opportunity.

• Look in a mirror. Personal grooming and attire can make the difference.

The Interview:

• Wear appropriate business attire for all interviews.

• Smile.

• Look the part of the ‘ideal candidate’ for the given position.

• Greet anyone you meet appropriately; a handshake should be firm without being overpowering.

• Be respectful toward everyone you meet.

• Make solid eye contact.

• Answer questions openly and directly – stay on topic.

• Ask informed questions.

• Demonstrate enthusiasm and genuine interest.

• At the end of the interview thank the interviewer for his or her time and ask for the job (but only if you really want it).

• Familiarize yourself with Behavioral Interviewing Techniques.

• Don’t be late (if unavoidable, phone before the scheduled time to apologize and give revised time of arrival).

• Don’t arrive more than 5 minutes before an interview time. You may reveal yourself unnecessarily to other candidates.

• Don’t bring friends or family members along to wait in the reception area while you’re being interviewed.

• Accept constructive criticism – you might not get the job you’re interviewing for, but any feedback could help you with the next opportunity.

• Turn off your cell phone before entering any office.

• Don’t bring coffee, doughnuts or the like to an interview.