Resumes and Job Search Communications

5 Resumé Basics

• Chronological

• Functional

• Combination

• Targeted

• Creative

Resumé Wording

• Headings: "Work Experience," "Education," "Skills"

• Formatting: Avoid designs, tables, or graphics

• Keywords: Use words from the job posting

• Font: Use Arial, Times New Roman, Aptos, or Calibri

• Personalization: Align it to job requirements

Style & Content

• Use active voice and action verbs

• Use parallel construction

• Separate responsibilities from impact

• Consider a profile section, a "hook"

• use their words and terms

Professional Persona

• Professional photo

• LinkedIn profile

• Email address

• Voicemail message

• Online profiles and comments

Outreach and Networking

• Most people want to help you

• Specific searches and outreach are easier

• Many jobs (positions) are never advertised

• Just do it

Researching Companies

• Visit the website (About Us, News, Investors)

• Read the annual report (Form 10-K)

• Search news articles (Google News)

• Use LinkedIn to find alumni or connections

Application Letters

Focus on the audience (HR or the hiring authority)

• Express interest in the mission

• Include relevant experience; don’t repeat the resume

• Conclude with action step

• Use their words and terms

Before the Interview

• Research the company/organization

• Research the interviewers, if possible

• Review the position description

• Develop your messages/talking points

• Write down your questions

Interviewing Techniques

Character questions

Experience questions

Interview Attire Variables

• Dress to fit the organization’s culture

• It’s fine to be stylish, but keep it neat and modest

• Aim to look like them and meet their expectation

• If traveling for the interview, take a smart casual

Remote Interviews

Remote

✓ Place camera at eye level

✓ Use a ring light; make sure you’re well lit

✓ Consider the backdrop; consider blurring the background

Panel

✓ Research panelists

✓ Consider them when developing talking points

✓ Send a thank-you message to the panel leader

Three Questions to Ask During the Interview

1. What do you like best about working here?

2. What are the challenging aspects of the position?

3. What do you think is required to succeed in this role?

Why It Works

✓ Shows you listen and care

✓ Allows you to personalize “thank-you” messages

✓ Allows you to give each interviewer what he or she wants

✓ Responses may also serve as a warning