In This Issue

  • Introduction
  • 10 Tips To Remaining Positive in Your Job Search
  • Resume Assistance
  • Careerfolk Associate, Tava Auslan, earns her RWA Resume Writing Certificate
  • Spotlight on Our Clients

There is something about the middle of Winter here in the Northeast that can make it a little harder than usual to keep our momentum up.  On this particular day, there is a wind chill of 20 below zero.  It is tempting to stay in pajamas and hibernate until Spring but, when it comes to your job search, you can’t let the cold temps become a barrier.  If it’s dark by 4PM and you don’t feel like trekking through ice and snow, it’s a perfect opportunity to expand your online network, refresh your resume, or make some calls. 

Staying Positive

Lately we are hearing from new clients all over the globe who tell us they’re feeling a bit depleted.  We get it.  It’s hard to stay positive when you’re faced with the daunting task of searching for the right job.  But, thankfully, it is possible with some support.  This month’s newsletter will highlight some of the supports available to you if the job search has got you down. 

 

Donna’s blog post: 10 Tips to Remaining Positive in Your Job Search

Tava and I meet a lot of people who have been out of work for a long time. Back in early 2009 when things were very bad for so many of us, I came up with this list to help people stay positive through what was such a disorienting time. One of the things I would tell people is to "Stop job searching!" What?? I know you think I'm probably a little nuts right?  I felt quite vindicated when I read this article by Peter Bregman in the Harvard Business Review.  I think it's time to re-share these tips.  Read more.

 

http://www.careerfolk.com/2011/08/02/10-tips-to-remaining-positive-in-your-job-search-1-stop-job-searching/

 

Resume Assistance

In the past few weeks, we have heard from clients who used a resume service that yielded less than favorable results. Of course some people may have great experiences but in the era of competitive job searching, employers and recruiters can sniff out a template faster than you can say “Resume!”  We have worked hard with our clients to make sure that their skills and experiences are not only highlighted but presented in such a way that they relate to the position(s) being applied for.  Here are some tips for cleaning up your resume so it stands out – for the right reasons. 

1. Language Lovers Lament

If you have an affinity for the written word and take pride in constructing perfectly executed sentences, please consider hiring a resume writer.  Today’s resumes shouldbe lean and tight without requiring much in the way of reading.  You can polish your words in the cover letter but every letter counts on a resume. 77% of hiring managers listed relevant experience as the number one factor they look for on a resume so it’s best to get right to it. 

 2. Farewell Early Jobs (That Don’t Showcase Your Value)

Of course, there are exceptions, but generally speaking there is no need to have your early career details your resume.  At best, they reveal more about your age thanyour value and skills.

3. Creativity Clutters

Be careful of the trap that places more emphasis on aesthetics than substance.  There are certain fonts and formats that can cause applicant tracking systems to hiccup and miss some of your best content.  It’s best to stay basic if you’re submitting a resume online.

4. Avoid Bullet Soup 

If you are writing about a job and you have a laundry list of tasks that are all relevant to the position(s) you’re applying for, try creating sections or headings to break up the content.  As a general rule of thumb, more than 5 bullets can be taxing on the eye.

5. Some Rules Were Made to Be Broken

The thing about resumes, fortunately or unfortunately, is that every situation is unique.  Take what you can from tips and guidelines but keep in mind that your goal is to shine a spotlight on the aspects of your story that will land you the job you want.  Tweaking that spotlight requires great care and objectivity.  If this is challenging for you, assistance is available.

 

 Congratulations Tava Auslan


We are so excited to share the exciting news that Careerfolk Associate, Tava Auslan, has earned her Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) credential from the Resume Writing Academy.  This means she is up-to-date on all of the latest tips and tricks for professional resume writing. To celebrate her accomplishment, we are offering a special: resume feedback for $195.  Tava will comb through your existing resume and offer thorough feedback line by line.  She will suggest changes if necessary and give you the fresh perspective that yields results.  This special lasts through March 2015. 

 

Spotlight On Our Clients

Congratulations to TV Producer, “A.T.” We just got word of her job search success and we are so thrilled for her.  We wanted to share her accomplishment and positive feedback with you. 

"Just wanted to give you a quick update and thank you for all of your help and support. I was literally hours away from starting my new job with prestige and a great salary (but almost nothing else going for it) when I got another offer. You really helped give me the confidence to take this risk and showed me the transferability of my skills.  After your significant revision, my resume is so much more effective demonstrating what I can do and the skills I have.  The new company thinks I'm the whole package! I'm happy and excited and terrified!" 

Bravo A.T. 

 

 

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