Out: Using
unusual résumé formats to hide employment
gaps.
In: Filling potential gaps through volunteer
or temporary work. Some job seekers have used functional
résumés to downplay gaps in their work history. But this
format -- in which the person's skills are listed at the top
of the document, and the work history is truncated or omitted
entirely -- could raise red flags by making it seem like you
have something to hide. Today's hiring managers realize that
many talented people are out of work right now through no
fault of their own, so don't feel like you need to hide a
recent period of unemployment. Instead, demonstrate that
you've remained professionally engaged while searching for a
new position by taking on volunteer or temporary
work.
Out: Overly
detailed résumés.
In:Streamlined résumés that list relevant
accomplishments. Hiring managers don't have much time to
devote to your résumé, so you need to make a positive
impression right away. The best way to do so is to cut out
unnecessary information from your document -- for example,
accomplishments from a job you held two decades ago, the
clubs you belonged to in college (unless you're a recent
graduate) or that your references are available upon request.
Focus on the skills you have that match the employer's
requirements and, in particular, bottom-line contributions
you've made in previous roles.
Out: A narrow focus
in your job search.
In:
A broad view of
how your skills might be useful in various
roles. In
today's job market, you may need to be creative to land a new
position. Think about the skills you possess and how they could be
applied in new ways or in an entirely new position or field. For
example, your experience spearheading a product launch could
position you for a role as a project manager.
Out: Networking
occasionally.
In:
Networking constantly using tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook
and Twitter, as well as in person.
The best way to find a job
remains through word of mouth. And, in the recession, a lead
or referral from a contact can give you the edge you need to
land a new position. Online networking websites make it easy
for you to keep in touch with members of your network, but
keep in mind that face-to-face interaction is still
important. Offer to treat people to coffee on occasion to
catch up and talk about your search.
Out: A set reference
list.
In:
A
customized reference list for each
opportunity.Like your résumé and cover letter, your reference list should
be fluid and targeted to the opportunity. When providing this
information to a prospective employer, think of who can speak best
about your most relevant skills for that position, not who has the
most impressive job title. For example, if you are interviewing for
a management position, have the hiring manager reach out to
individuals you've supervised in the past.
Out: Ending the interview by asking when
they'll be contacting you.
In:
Ending the interview by asking for the job on a trial
basis. It
never hurts to be proactive. If you feel the employment interview
has gone well, don't be afraid to ask if you can prove yourself on
a temporary basis. You'll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job
and desire to hit the ground running.
The fundamentals of the job search -- reaching
out to employers and making a positive impression -- haven't
changed. But the tools for doing so are different today than even
just a few years ago. Make sure you understand the current trends
to maximize your success on the job
hunt.