The Smart Resume Blog

Sending a resume electronically? Beware of these common resume disqualifiers.

1. Failing To Read The Instructions

Online job postings have explicit instructions on how to apply. Possible requirements could include:

• How to send your resume (attachment or cut and paste)
• Resume format (Word, Text, PDF)
• E-mail subject heading

Failure to follow the instructions will disqualify you immediately. Take time to read the instructions carefully. Employers will include very specific details to confirm that job seekers have read the posting thoroughly.

2. Sending A Large File

If you are required to send additional documents such as a PDF portfolio, try to keep the file size small. This may require you to send the portfolio with less documents or at a lesser quality, but it ensures that your application will be reviewed instead of placed in a junk mail folder, or deleted for being to large. If you don’t want to restructure your portfolio use WinZip to compress your documents.

3. Sending An Unreadable Format

If you are sending an attachment make sure the document can be opened. I know this seems obvious, but issues sometimes occur when sending files between Macs and PCs and between older and newer versions of software. Again, read the instructions and when in doubt send a word document (.doc extension). If you want to make sure your document is compatible, send to a friend or family member and ask them to open your resume. Also, newer versions of Microsoft Office for Mac and PC have a Compatibility Checker, which can confirm that your document is readable across older/newer software versions.

4. Writing a Casual Email

Remember, you are not sending an email to one of your friends, so avoid informal language. Remain professional and even if they do not require you to send a cover letter, include a few sentences about the name of the position and your contact information.

For Example:

Dear Hiring Manager:

I am seeking an employment opportunity with _______ in the position of ______. Attached you will find my resume and cover letter for consideration. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Thank you.

Sincerely-

Your Name
Your Phone Number

Interning this summer? Follow these few steps to ensure success.

1. Be On Time

If you want to make a good impression, start with being on time. Treat your internship as a privilege. Depending on what company you are interning with, you probably beat out hundreds of candidates for a spot. Remember to be appreciative and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

2. Ask Questions

Interning is a learning experience and an opportunity to explore your career interests. If you just photocopy and file papers all day, you will not learn much. Get to know the people in the department you are interning with, ask them about their career path and job responsibilities. If time permits ask if you can shadow them in the workplace for a day. Taking advantage of this opportunity will allow you to enrich your experience beyond the usual intern tasks.

3. Volunteer For Projects And Assignments

As with most things, what you put into it is what you get out of it. Volunteer to help out with projects when you can. Even if you are only given small tasks, observe how things work, make suggestions, and ask questions.

4. Attend Information Sessions And Luncheons

A lot of companies set up information sessions and luncheons for interns throughout the summer. Attend all of them. You’ll have the opportunity to network, meet fellow interns, and learn about the different departments within the company. Remember networking is a key component in today’s job search.

5. Keep In Touch

Once your internship is over, keep in touch with the people you’ve worked with. Send emails and update them on your personal projects, workshops/conferences you’ve attended, and other internships you’re doing. This will keep them aware of your accomplishments and interest in the company. By doing this you will build professional relationships that could ultimately lead to a job after graduation.

There’s no question that the career landscape has changed. Guy Kawasaki asks career columnist and author, Penelope Trunk about the biggest workplace myths and she explains why knowing yourself is the real key to a successful and fulfilling career.

“Know who you are and have the humility to understand that self-knowledge is a never-ending journey. Figure out how to do what you love, and you’ll be great at it. Offer your true, good-natured self to other people and you’ll have a great network.”

College graduates have more business skills and qualifications than they give themselves credit for, says the CareerJournal. Pulling off late night cram sessions, collaborating on assignments, updating their MySpace page, and participating in student activities equip students with transferable skills that recruiters are definitely looking for. With the help of a Microsoft recruiter, the article provides suggestions on how to translate those skills into resume friendly phrases:

“…working on class projects might become “cross team collaboration,” proficiency in Facebook and MySpace would probably sound better as “connecting with customers through new technologies” and study abroad might be called “global exposure and cultural savvy.”"

BusinessWeek’s Shelia Curran provides a four-step guide to discovering a career you love. Job seekers can find that perfect job, she says, “when it comes to finding a path to your ideal position, you’re the one in the driver’s seat.” And no matter where you are in your career – entry-level, midcareer, or executive – it’s never too late for a makeover.

A phone interview is your first introduction to a potential employer. It is part of the initial screening process where recruiters narrow down qualified candidates to those they would like to meet in person.

Preparation

Research the company by visiting their website. Take time to read related press releases, industry trade articles, and case studies. Gather knowledge about the company and their recent projects and accomplishments.

On a note card, prepare a list of specific achievements and skills that you want to address during the interview. Use the job description to guide you as you put together your key qualifications.

Write out answers to potential interview questions and practice reading them aloud. Sample questions might include:

• Tell me about yourself?

• Describe your current position?

• Are you familiar with our company?

• Are you willing to relocate?

• What are your salary requirements?

• When are you able to start?

During the Interview

• Minimize distractions. Turn the TV and radio off and notify roommates and family members that you have a phone interview.

• Consider using a landline instead of a cell phone. Cell phones can disconnect suddenly and may not give the clearest reception.

• Keep your resume in front of you so that you can follow along with the recruiter as they address your experience and work history. Listen carefully and take notes. This will give you plenty of information to reference when it is your turn to ask follow-up questions.

• Give the interviewer your full attention. Don’t eat or chew gum.

• Convey enthusiasm and self-confidence. Consider standing up during the interview because your voice will project better. Remain professional throughout and avoid using slang.

After the Interview

Send a brief thank you note that reiterates your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.

Reverse Chronological Format:

This is the most traditional resume format and a very effective way to outline employment history and career growth.

Key Features:

• Employment history is listed in reverse order starting with current or most recent employment
• Work experience and companies you have worked for are emphasized
• Demonstrates a stable employment history and career growth (ex. promotions and increasing responsibility)

Advantages:

• Displays your career path by demonstrating promotions and growth
• Very common format

Disadvantages:

• Exposes gaps in employment history

This Resume Format Works Best For:

• Job seekers with a consistent career history
• Job seekers applying to a job similar to their current one or those staying within the same industry
• Job seekers who have worked for well-known and respected companies