Sections of this topic
I was recently asked my opinion on using a referral pane on a resume. You can view a sample of the resume by clicking here Reference Resume Sample
My opinion is that this is too difficult for a recruiter to scan. If your resume makes it into the hands of a recruiter or hiring manager once the Applicant Tracking System scans and ranks it, it only has a few seconds to sell your qualifications to get moved to yes or even the maybe pile. When I scan a resume, I need to know what did you, where did you it, and how can you help my company achieve its goals in 30 seconds or less. During the scanning process, I am not interested in who you got to say great things about you.
Another resume that doesn’t lend itself to quick scanning is the one will all the cool designs and bold colors. Unless I am hiring a graphic artist, I don’t need funky fonts, colors, or shapes. I need a resume that concisely tells how you match our needs. It is as simple as that. (And if I were hiring a graphic artist, I would expect to see a portfolio in a format such as Acrobat or other software that you would be expected to use on the job.)
Another question I frequently get is about the cover letter. Should I bother to send one? The answer is yes. While some recruiters may never look at it, my guess is someone in the hiring process will. However, if you are going to send one, use the T-format.
| Listed Job Requirement | Your matched skill/experience |
| Knowledge of ADDIE | Used the ADDIE method to design a corporate leadership training program that resulted in a 100% performance improvement in two departments. |
If you feel it is necessary to add those recommendations, add another column to your T.
| Listed Job Requirement | Your matched skill/experience | Recommendation |
| Knowledge of ADDIE | Used the ADDIE method to design a corporate leadership training program that resulted in a 100% performance improvement in two departments. | “program provided me the skills needed to help my team reach their goals” |
| Listed Job Requirement | Your matched skill/experience | Result |
| Knowledge of ADDIE | Used ADDIE method to design corporate leadership training program. | 100% performance improvement in multiple departments. |
But if you want to stand out even more, use the other column to show your results. That is what I want to talk about.
What do you think? Your comments are welcomed and encouraged.
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For more resources, See the Human Resources library.
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Sheri Mazurek is a training and human resource professional with over 16 years of management experience, and is skilled in all areas of employee management and human resource functions, with a specialty in learning and development. She is available to help you with your Human Resources and Training needs on a contract basis. For more information send an email to [email protected] or visit www.sherimazurek.com. Follow me on Twitter @Sherimaz.
