Friday, April 16, 2010

Secrets to getting the job you really want


I'd like to make your job search more successful. When applying for a job, it's critical to deliver your resume to the right person. In most job listings, the recipient of the resume is an HR professional. That's fine, but it's not the only way to apply for the job. If you find a job where you're a perfect fit, an alternative approach is to send a resume directly to the hiring manager. For example, if you were applying for a sales position, you could call the company and ask for the name of the sales manager, and then send a cover letter and resume directly to that person. My advice is to only use this tactic when you're a perfect fit, and to not apply to the job via the traditional HR process as well. You don't want to be seen as someone who is sending two resumes in an attempt to end-run the HR process. Your goal is to have the hiring manager call the HR recruiter and tell him or her to bring you in for an interview.
I also advise job seekers to be sure that their resumes highlight the relevant accomplishments they have for the job they want. Most job seekers have resumes listing their skills and responsibilities, which isn't enough. It makes them look like every other job seeker who will be ignored for the job. Your resume should highlight your relevant accomplishments in a way that will make the employer say, "Wow, she's succeeded at doing a similar job before." You want your resume reader to perceive you as being accomplished in your profession. Transitioning your resume to this better approach isn't easy, but it will surely get you more interviews.

No comments:

Post a Comment