Quite simply, to gain an advantage over your competition! Most people have a difficult time looking at themselves, their career, and their achievements objectively and are uncomfortable "tooting their own horn." As a result, the tendency is to downplay accomplishments. A professional resume writer knows how to position you for maximum impact based on your background, experience, accomplishments, and unique situation. Multiple factors must be considered, including presentation of critical information and what information should be showcased and what should be eliminated or diminished to avoid potential obstacles.
An experienced resume writer approaches the process from the critical perspective of a hiring manager, and understands the subtle nuances involved in the selection or placement of a single word or phrase. A professional is also an expert in industry "buzz" words and strong action verbs relevant and appropriate to your profession and career level.
The below questions provide a sampling of the issues a professional resume writer addresses when developing a resume-writing strategy. There are no "one-size-fits-all" solutions when developing a high-impact, accomplishment-based resume!
Do you know the answers to the following questions?
- Which section of your resume is considered the most important during the initial scan by a hiring manager, and why?
- When should an objective be included on your resume?
- What criteria determines if your resume should be developed in one, two, or three pages?
- If your career encompasses more than 20 years, should all of your experience be included, or only the past 15 years?
- Should your resume be written using a reverse chronological, functional, or combination format?
- Why is a functional resume potentially viewed as a "red flag" to hiring managers?
- What is the single area that career industry surveys have determined hiring managers tend to agree on regarding what they like to see on resumes?
- What is the most effective method to incorporate core competencies?
- What key information is often lacking in quantifiable accomplishments?
- How should position functions and accomplishments be differentiated?
- In what unique circumstances can personal information such as hobbies be included on a resume?
- If a prospective employer requests salary information, what percentage of hiring managers are likely to consider the applicant if this information is not provided?
- What percentage of candidates fail to send a thank you letter following an interview?
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