tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8830298372103128782024-03-08T12:40:05.044-08:00The Resume Factor Blog... A one-stop source of tips for resume writing and interviewing for jobseekers.Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-24393018575059221972013-06-19T21:38:00.000-07:002014-08-30T01:33:35.685-07:006 ways to make a job-hopper's resume look good.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you've changed more than 5 jobs in the last 10 years, you're going to be classified as a job-hopper. But then, you already know that, and perhaps that is why you are here, keen to know how you're going to create a resume that's going to downplay your frequent job-changing.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Whether the reasons for your job-hopping were in your control or not, let's face it – job-hoppers aren't looked upon too kindly by prospective employers. They get stacks of resumes every day and they are always looking to reject a candidate for some reason or the other. And if they think that you are someone who changes jobs too frequently, then you are out.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">But why this attitude against job-hoppers? The general assumptions are:</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- They are probably bad workers, and don't last too long in one place</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- They probably have personality issues that lead to conflicts, and perhaps that is why they are forced to move frequently.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Perhaps they are too restless and fickle</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Perhaps they are trying to steal trade secrets</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hiring, recruiting and training is an expensive and time-consuming affair, and employers would definitely notwant to go through the entire process again a few months later. That is why they tend to reject people who they think might quit soon, like they did in their earlier jobs.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Never fear. There are ways to create a resume that will make you look good.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1) Emphasize your skills and accomplishments on your resume.</span></span></span></b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2011/04/types-of-resumes-and-when-to-use-them.html" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">The best bet for a job-hopper is to go with the functional resume, ratherthan the chronological resume.</a></span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small; line-height: 0.19in;">A hybrid resume is also useful, where the first part concentrates on your skills, and the second part briefly lists your jobs in chronological order. Decide which would be better, based on your circumstances.</span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small; line-height: 0.19in;">The first half of the first page must contain all your accomplishments, and a summary of your achievements and skills, so that before the employer notices that you have changed too many jobs, he should have already judged you on your merit and potential, and be impressed by your candidature.</span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2) Group similar jobs together.</span></span></span></b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small; line-height: 0.19in;">If some of your jobs have been similar – like contract-based work, or freelance work, bunch those together under one heading. That way, it won't look like you have a long list of jobs.</span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">3) Leave out jobs that aren't relevant.</span></span></span></b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you have worked at some jobs that were of a different field, or in a different industry, you could consider leaving those out. You could also omit those jobs that were far too short in tenure, or not that important in your career. But be careful. If it comes up in background checks, then you will have some explaining to do. So you must use your discretion.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">4) Use only years when indicating the duration of your jobs.</span></span></span></b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small; line-height: 0.19in;">If you worked at a place from Dec 2012 to April 2013, putting it as 2012 to 2013 makes it looks like a longer period.</span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">5) Indicate on the resume if the reason for your quitting a job was for reasons not in your control.</span></span></span></b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Though you are generally not expected to mention the reason for your leaving in the resume, if you had to leave because of a merger or an acquisition, it makes sense to indicate that on your resume.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">6) Include an impressive cover letter.</span></span></span></b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2011/03/basics-of-cover-letter.html">A great cover letter,</a> that introduces your candidature and focuses on your positives, while, perhaps explaining your job-hopping, will aid your candidature greatly.</span></span></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small; line-height: 0.19in;"><br /></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small; line-height: 0.19in;">The only hurdle you have is to portray your potential through your resume. The moment you land an interview, you can take control, and do all that you can to convince them that they'll do good by hiring you. By using these suggestions, your resume will definitely do your work for you effectively.</span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 0.19in; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small; line-height: 0.19in;">Remember, if you don't focus on your job-hopping, chances are that the employer won't either.</span></div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-25016562227705532542013-02-24T22:54:00.003-08:002014-09-01T00:15:20.301-07:00Job-search after 50 - Make your age an asset.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
Many people believe that it is nearly impossible to find a job after 50, especially when the job market is bad. It might be difficult, but if you plan it well, your age and experience might well become your asset, and help you get a job more easily.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
But how can you go about it?</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Make the best of your experience.</b> Older people generally have valuable skills in people management, leadership and problem-solving, among other things. You have to highlight these traits in yourself through what you say in your resume and your interview. You have to make your potential employer feel that you will be an asset not only because of your skills in the job, but also for these additional abilities.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Use your network.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>One of the major advantages that older job-seekers have is that they have a huge number of contacts and a well-established network. Spread the word amongst your contacts, and see if they know of any openings anywhere. Referrals work best, and if you have so far maintained a good reputation about the kind of worker you are, you won't find it difficult to get somebody to refer you for a job.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Search right.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Though age-related discrimination is illegal, it certainly exists. So do your homework well. Look for those companies which value older people. For instance, some legal and financial service firms might have clients who prefer to deal with senior people, and your age and experience will be an asset to the firm. Similarly, some companies might prefer candidates who are ready to start work from the word go, and might not want to waste time training new recruits. On the other hand, there are startups which are populated entirely by young people straight out of college, where you just might not fit in. So, do research before you apply, instead of wasting your time.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Take stock of your requirements</b>. Now that you are looking for a new job, ask yourself if there are things you want to change about your life. Would you want to venture into another field that you had always wanted to work in? Are you fed up of the commute, and would you not mind taking a salary cut if you could walk to work? Weigh your options. They might be different now, after all these years. And then look for a job accordingly.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Take a re-look at your attitude</b>. Many people are daunted by the prospect of being interviewed by persons younger than themselves, or even by ending up working under young bosses. You might want to get a young friend to engage you in a mock-interview. In fact, it even helps if you apply for a job you are not interested in, so that you can have a practice interview, where you can assess the areas where you need some improvement, and then work on them. Besides, older people are assumed to be inflexible. Prove with examples that you are adaptable and are open to new ideas, technology and approaches.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Freshen-up your resume.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>If you have been working in the same company for a long time, chances are that your resume is not up-to-date. So spend some time working on it. Besides, resume trends change very quickly. So it is possible that what you think is fine is outdated as far as resumes go. In that case, it will help if you get <a href="http://resumefactor.com/">professional help.</a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Concentrate on recent and relevant experience.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In your resume, cover letter and interview, focus only on what you have done in the last ten years or so. Resist listing out everything you've ever done, and stick to only those points that portray well your skills and talent that is required for the job you are applying for.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b>Upgrade your skills.</b><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Many tend to consider older people outdated as far as new skills and technology goes. Don't give them the chance to say that in your case. Wherever possible, go in for training, or ask a colleague to help you get familiarized with new technology. Or take a refresher course, or get some help online. There are a number of avenues of learning in this era of the internet, like <a href="http://coursera.org/">Coursera</a> and <a href="http://udacity.com/">Udacity</a>. Universities like <a href="http://ocw.mit.edu/index.htm">MIT</a> and <a href="http://see.stanford.edu/default.aspx">Stanford</a> also offer online learning options. <a href="http://www.jimmyr.com/blog/1_Top_10_Universities_With_Free_Courses_Online.php">Here is another list of such universities.</a></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
So there you have it. Some of the major ways you can search for an appropriate job. And remember, any search take time. So the most important thing is – stick with it, and you will be sure of success!</div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-4635849619790620202013-02-05T00:16:00.002-08:002013-02-05T00:17:03.978-08:00"You're overqualified for the job"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Have you ever been told by a recruiter that you're "<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>" for the job? That doesn't make too much sense, does it? Either you have the requisite skills and experience to do the job, or you don't. Then what does that word mean?</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Many people believe that "you're<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>" is just a euphemism for "you're too old." That could be one of the ways that "<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>" is used, but it is definitely not the only way.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Very often, rejecting someone using this word is seen as the kindest thing to do, even when it is not actually the reason. The reason could be anything. Perhaps you are just not the right fit, or you rubbed someone the wrong way during the interview, or simply because the interviewer didn't quite like you.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">On the other hand, there are lots of people who apply for jobs that need less experience than what they have. This could be due to a number of reasons. Perhaps the candidate is looking for a better work-life balance. Or perhaps he is exploring a new industry or domain. Or he might be looking at a different role in the industry and so is ready to start at a lower level than he was at. So is it fair to dismiss him with the "<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>" tag?</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">But what stops people from hiring people they think are "<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>" for the job? Some of the reasons are that they think:</span></div>
<ol style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-color: white;">She might get bored.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-color: white;">The salary is lesser than what she is getting.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-color: white;">She might be using this as a stepping stone to something else.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-color: white;">This might just be a temporary thing. She'll leave the moment she finds something better.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-color: white;">She might not be open to working under someone who is younger/less<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222;">qualified</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>than her.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-color: white;">She might prove to be my rival for promotions in the near future.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">If you are applying for a job for which you might be considered<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>, it helps to know what you could do to defend your application.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">For example, if someone calls you<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>, you could say, "How do you think my greater experience will affect my ability to do the job?" Then they will be forced to specify the reason they called you<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>, after which you can address their concerns with confidence. You need to provide assurance that their fears are baseless, and explain why you are applying for this job even though it might seem like a let down after all the previous experience.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Or you could take their statement and convert it into something positive and say, "Yes! My greater number of years of experience and higher skills will mean that I might bring better value to the job!"</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Another way to preempt the "<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">overqualified</span>" tag is through your cover letter. Mention only the relevant skills and experience you have for the job, and even in the interview, downplay your other degrees/skills/abilities (but don't hide them) and just stick to what is required for that job.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">But if you are in the job search market, and if you are repeatedly hearing the "<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">Overqualified</span>" word, you might want to sit back, think about it, re-estimate your skills and what you are looking for, and reword your resume and cover letter based on what kind of job you are targeting.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://resumefactor.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">(Ask the experts!)</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In any case, don't let the "<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">Overqualified</span>" tag weigh you down! </span></div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-16291996868528931132013-01-29T00:21:00.001-08:002013-01-29T00:21:53.612-08:00Body language - 20 things that will make a difference during an interview <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of the intangible factors that affect the outcome of your interview is how you appear to the interviewer. Your dress and personal grooming is only one aspect of it. More important is your posture, your stance, your body language. Unconsciously, we judge people on the basis of their posture and body language, and react accordingly.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Clearly, a person who looks more confident and more in charge is more likely to impress the interviewer, than a person who looks uncomfortable and unprepared.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here are a few things you can do to look the part.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Before you enter the interview room:</b></span></div>
<ol style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Practice your posture. Head held high, chin up, back straight. W</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">hen you walk or sit in this posture, you come across as confident.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ensure that you have had a good night's sleep, and that you look fresh. There are some who believe that a good workout on the morning of the interview adds a healthy, alive glow to your face, and even makes you feel sprightly, adding to your overall positive body language.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Arrive early. Time your arrival right. You don't want to come rushing and panting into the interview room. Be sure to arrive at least ten minutes early, enough for you to catch your breath, check out your surroundings, and feel comfortable before you go into the interview room. But try not to arrive too early. You don't want boredom to show on your face from having waited too long.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="4" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Before you go to the interview, you might want to visit the restroom to make yourself comfortable.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="5" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Even while you are waiting for your turn, sit erect, shoulders straight. Breathe slowly and deeply, and smile a little. You will not only look calm and collected, but the good confident feeling will even trickle down into you.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Walking into the interview room, greeting, and sitting.</b></span></div>
<ol start="6" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Walk into the interview room with firm steps, and a strong greeting. Do not shuffle, do not mumble. Be crisp and clear in your words and in your movements.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="7" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Let your handshake me firm and strong. Let go of your hand only after the interviewer lets go.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="8" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sit straight. Sitting with your lower back pressed against the backrest of the chair ensures that you will not slouch. If the chair is too high and your legs dangle, then settle yourself such that your legs can be placed on the floor. But keep your back straight, and lean forward slightly. It is a sign of interest.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="9" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Don't stretch your legs, don't shake them, or tap them.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>During the interview:</b></span></div>
<ol start="10" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Make good eye-contact. Shifty eyes are very often seen as cowardly, unconfident and dishonest. But do not stare either. That can be intimidating</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="11" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Don't touch your face, or your neck or your hair too often. They can be construed as signs of dishonesty, or disinterestedness.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="12" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Don't cross your arms in front of you. It is seen as a gesture of intimidation or defence.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="13" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Many people don't know what to do with their hands – keep them on the armchair? Place them on the lap? On the table? Relax, and do whatever comes naturally. Keep the hands free to make forceful gestures if needed. (But don't over-gesticulate.)</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="14" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Smile often (at appropriate situations) throughout the interview. It not only makes the interview feel friendly and personal, it also tends to relax you.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Make yourself look interested.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="16" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remember your manners.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="17" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Don't come across as too arrogant or overconfident, or a know-it-all. It is a great put-off.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="18" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If there is more than one person interviewing you, make sure you glance at all of them while you are speaking, with emphasis on the person whose questions you are answering.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>After the interview:</b></span></div>
<ol start="19" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After the interview is over, do not scramble to collect your belongings and leave. Rise unhurriedly, thank the interviewers, smile, and walk out at your own pace.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<ol start="20" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After you go out of the room, you might feel drained and want to slump into a seat, or you might be thrilled and might want to do a victory dance – but hold it until you are out of sight. There are many stories about how the interviewer caught sight of the candidate after he left the building and rejected him for his behavior much after the interview was over.</span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It is not very easy to get an opportunity for an interview – so when you've got it, make it count!</span></div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-6301005024859016952013-01-23T22:14:00.004-08:002013-01-23T22:14:43.149-08:003 top tips for personal grooming in job interviews<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We have all heard fascinating stories of how someone landed at a job interview with unwashed, crumpled clothes, but won the interview panel over with his brilliance and wit, or about that guy who went straight from a ball game to an interview with muddy clothes, and still managed to land the job. Some of these stories are undoubtedly true, but would you risk it yourself? Would you go to an interview dressed no less than your personal best?</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Logically speaking, your appearance shouldn't matter, as long as you have the capability and the skills to get the job done. But practically, your appearance does influence what your interviewers think of you, and this is backed by undeniable statistics.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So does that mean you should invest in an expensive suit and splurge on a makeover before you attend that interview? Not at all. Here is what you can do to make your appearance impressive before you go to that interview.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<blockquote style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; border: none; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; orphans: 2; padding: 0px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Cleanliness and hygiene.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This aspect of your appearance cannot be stressed enough. Before you go for the interview, eliminate everything about personal body hygiene that usually puts people off.</span></div>
</blockquote>
<ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Take a shower, wear fresh clothes.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Brush your teeth.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you are a smoker, you might want to avoid smoking for several hours before the interview, and pop a breath mint into your mouth a few minutes before the interview.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ensure you do not smell of alcohol, or anything unpleasant.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Make sure your nails are clean and clipped.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wear clothes that are ironed and washed, and see that your shoes are clean.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you have eaten something before the interview, you might want to check if something is stuck in your teeth, because that can be really distracting for the interviewers!</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ensure that your hair is combed, or arranged neatly.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Clothes.</b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The kind of clothes you wear will depend on your geographical location, and the kind of job you are applying for, so there is no hard and fast rule for what you should wear.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The thumb rule is to go for clothes that are usually considered formal in your culture. Don't make it too formal, though.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is not the place to display how tuned-in you are to the current fashion. Stick to being conservative in your dressing.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It would be a good idea to wear subdued colours.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You don't need to spend unnecessarily on expensive clothes for the interview. Anything that is neat, clean, and not scruffy should work quite well.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wear something comfortable, preferably something you have worn before, an outfit that you know you are comfortable in. You wouldn't want to be thinking of your clothes – that this shirt is pinching you in the armpit, or that those trousers are so tight that you cannot breathe, instead of focusing on the interview.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Accessories:</b></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Shoes – These should be clean, and well-polished, and preferably, shouldn't make too much noise when you are walking</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Keep a minimum of things with you – a folder with relevant documents – not too fat, just enough to hold whatever you need. A simple handbag or purse, and that is enough. If you happen to have more bags for any reason, you could leave them outside at the reception. Avoid lugging too many things into the interview.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you must wear perfume or deodorant, ensure that it is mild and not overpowering. You don't want the interview room smelling off you even after you've left - That's not how you want the interviewers to remember you!</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Don't wear too much or too flashy jewellery.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Makeup should be kept to a minimum.</span></div>
</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Carry a clean handkerchief with you, just in case you need it for any reason.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Perhaps the best boost to your overall appearance is a confident posture and positive body language, and we'll talk about that in the next post.</span></div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-18977301990354720982012-11-28T22:48:00.003-08:002012-11-28T22:48:24.848-08:0010 things to do before quitting your job<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you have decided that things are not going too well at your current job, and that you want to quit, it will help to make sure that exit goes as smoothly as possible, and that you leave on an elegant note. Here are some things you should think of before you quit, and while you are in the process of quitting.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Talk to your boss: </b>If things aren't suitable for you in your current job, try talking to your boss first to see if anything can be done about it. If she doesn't know that you aren't happy, she cannot help, can she? See if any change can be made to the current situation. Remember, the grass always seems to be greener on the other side, and so you first need to ascertain that the grass is truly not green any longer on your side of the fence, before you think of making the jump.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Consider internal options: </b>Sometimes, there are quite a few opportunities for change within the company. Very few people consider changing within the organization. Talk to your colleagues in different departments, or make appointments with heads of other divisions, and talk to them. You might be surprised to find a great opportunity lurking somewhere right inside your own company. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2012/11/10-ways-to-keep-your-job-search-secret.html" target="_blank"><b>Keep your job search discreet.</b></a> If you decide to go ahead and look for another job anyway, then you should know how to keep your job search a secret from your current employers.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Don't quit until you are sure that the other job offer is official.</b> There are times when you might have to quit suddenly, without the luxury of another job waiting for you. But as far as you can help it, make sure that you do have a job on hand before you quit your current job. Preferably, ensure that you have the official letter, from your new employer, and not just verbal assurances. Only then, hand in your resignation.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Give plenty of notice before you quit. </b>Even if it is not in the contract, you have an obligation to finish your work, and tie up the threads before you leave. It will also give a chance for your current employers to hire a replacement. This should not be a problem with your new employer if you explain that you need to finish your work before quitting. It might work in your favour if they see that you are loyal, and sincere about your work. Also, if possible, get in a week or two between the time you quit and the day you start your new job – go on a vacation or just relax, clear your mind and then start the next job invigorated.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Don't get lured by counter-offers: </b>There is going to be an exit interview, and you might be enticed with offers of a higher salary and more responsibility, but these offers are usually not followed upon. Also, if you choose to stay after this, you will always be the guy who wanted to leave, and that might not be a very good thing for your career.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Train your replacement:</b> If a replacement has been hired before you leave, you owe it to yourself and the company to enable a smooth transition. Use a little of your time to make sure she understands what you are leaving behind. You don't want her to curse you behind your back after you leave, about what a mess you left for her to clear.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Be honest, but nice, in the exit interview. </b>The exit interview is the perfect place for employers to see what can be improved in the organization, and you have to be honest and truthful about your experiences. But even if you are leaving on a bitter note, try and temper the tone of your negative feedback. It can be tempting to lash out and vent your frustrations, but that will only belittle you, and you want to exit as gracefully as you can, don't you?</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Settle old conflicts.</b> You might have old enemies or rivals who you want to pull down a notch or two before you leave. But what good will this show of ego do to you, except a temporary feeling of victory? Leave on a good note – if possible, iron wrinkles in relationships before you leave, through a nice note, or a friendly word. That way, you might gain allies for the development of your future career!</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Keep in touch with colleagues:</b> Before you leave, ensure that you have all the contact details of your friends and colleagues throughout the organization. Keep in touch with them through phone, mail or social networks, and make sure that they are aware of your progress over the years. They can turn out to be valuable contacts sometime in the future.</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Leaving a place where you've invested so much of your life is never easy. But it can be smoothened a bit if you follow these tips!</div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-44858893407579986732012-11-15T20:01:00.001-08:002012-11-15T20:01:39.318-08:0010 ways to keep your job search a secret!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So you are looking to change your job, and you want to start the job-hunt? Wait. There's something very important that you've got to consider. How will you keep this a secret from your current employers? </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After all, you've got to be discreet about the fact that you're looking for a new job. Managers frequently don't look too kindly upon an employee who is planning to leave. He might get passed up for good projects, promotions or bonuses. Besides, he could be suspected of trying to steal confidential information. Even if nothing, an employee who is leaving is bound to get treated a little differently. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So how do you keep your job search a secret? Here are a few tips.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Do not use your work email for job hunting.</div>
</li>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Do not use work resources – This is common sense, but it is amazing how many people don't realize this simple thing. Don't use the company's computers, phone, fax, or any other resource to send or receive messages, or conduct searches.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Do it on your personal time – Avoid taking calls, telephonic interviews, or scheduling interviews during working hours. Try to do it on a weekend, during lunch hours, or after office hours. If it is inevitable, you might have to take a day off, but do it with discretion. Take too many days off without any obvious reasons, and alarm bells will start ringing.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Talk to your prospective employer about scheduling your interviews after office hours. Not only will they understand, they will also appreciate your respect for your current work. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you have no other go, and if you need to take that telephone interview during office hours, then you must have a plausible explanation for being missing from your desk. Try and get your work finished beforehand, and tell somebody you are stepping out on personal business, so that you are not missed. If you have to run out for an interview during office hours, you might have to come to work in formal attire. And if that is not very common for you, if you are usually dressed casually, then your clothes will definitely draw attention. You might want to start dressing well every day while you are on the job hunt, or else, you might want to take a day off, or else you will have to go somewhere to change quickly. Or else, have a good reason ready about why you are dressed like you are. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Keep your silence on social networks. Job hunters have never had it better – the unlimited resources and opportunities the internet provides for job-hunting is immense. But the downside is that the word can get around quickly that you are job hunting, if you are not carefully. Even if you are quiet on Facebook, uploading your resume suddenly on LinkedIn can be a hint. So watch what you do or say online</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Confide in a trusted friend or colleague. - Telling a friend or a colleague about your job search will help in several ways. She might help provide contacts or leads, and she might pitch in for you, and get your back, if you are suddenly pulled away on something connected to your job search..</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Select references carefully – If the prospective employer asks for references, you can't very well give your current boss's details. You might have to think of someone from a previous job, or a colleague in the present job who you are close to and can trust</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Don't tell your boss about your job search – even if you decide to tell a few colleagues about your job search, don't tell your boss until you are really friendly, and she is sympathetic to your situation. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Be careful during online searches. </div>
</li>
</li>
</li>
</li>
</li>
</li>
</li>
</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you are sending your resume to a job opening online, try and find out the name of the company before you send it. Ask your HR which sites they use to advertise jobs, and you would do well to avoid them. After all, you wouldn't want to end up sending your resume to your current boss! </div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Remove names and identifiers while uploading resume on sites. </div>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Don't use company names in the resume. For example, you might use "working for a leading software outsourcing industry" instead of mentioning the name. This way, you maintain a level of anonymity.</div>
</li>
</li>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="10">
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Keep up with your workoad, and do not slack off, just because you know you might be leaving. It can be a sure sign that something is amiss.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Not too hard, is it? Now go get that job!</div>
<ul><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-49765227692332151052012-07-20T02:12:00.003-07:002012-07-20T02:12:59.570-07:00The value of Thank You letters.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2012/07/importance-of-follow-up-letters.html">Following up</a> on the status of your application is very important in any hiring process. Similarly, sending a well-written thank you letter after an interview is another way in which you can make a positive difference to your job prospects.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
But it comes at a risk. If your letter contains even a single error, or if its tone is wrong, then it could actually set you back!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
But since statistics show that less than 10 percent of candidates actually bother to send a Thank-you letter, the possibility is quite high of your being at an advantage if you do send a good one. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A Thank-you letter is best sent within 24 or 48 hours after the interview. It has three major benefits – </div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It helps keeps your name at the top</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It portrays you as professional and courteous</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It shows that you really are interested in the job.</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Things to remember about Thank-you notes:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Send thank-you letters both after personal and phone interviews.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Send a note to each interviewer, if possible. Some might prefer hand-written notes, but an email will do nicely. Besides, it is fast, and the sooner you say Thank you, the better!</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Thank the interviewer for his time.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
You could lightly touch upon something in the interview that went well. This will help recreate in the interviewer's mind, that sense of satisfaction about your candidature. This might also help in jogging the interviewer's memory about who exactly you are, especially if there were many candidates for the position!</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
You could use this letter to patch up any damage that was done in the interview. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mention anything you might have wanted to say during the interview, but did not. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mention something about the interview process, or something about the company work ethics that you noticed and appreciated. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Send information that you might have been asked to provide during the interview.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tell them again that you are interested in this job.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Say that you will be available for further interviews, and that are looking forward to talking to them again. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Keep it short and simple</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
As with all such business letters, make sure it is free of errors.</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://www.job-interview-wisdom.com/interview-thank-you-notes.html" target="_blank">This site</a> has some more helpful information about Thank-you notes. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Just a few minutes of your time can set you apart from your competitors – take advantage of that, and write that Thank you note!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://resumefactor.com/" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-5713414164204424592012-07-03T21:05:00.002-07:002012-07-03T21:07:20.997-07:00The importance of follow-up letters.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b><br /></b><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
You have sent a company your resume and
cover letter, it has been a week or two, and you haven't heard back
from them. Is there anything else you can do apart from twiddling
your thumbs and waiting? Actually, there is. You can send a
follow-up letter.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Typically, a follow-up letter is sent
between 1 or 2 weeks after you send in your resume, if you haven't
heard from them yet.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This serves two major purposes.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It jogs the memory of the
recruiter, in case your resume has got lost in the pile.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It shows your enthusiasm and your
ambition, and that you are seriously interested in this job.
</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
You could also make a follow-up phone
call, but that can be a little dicey. On one hand, you will probably
get an instant reply,. But on the other hand, a call is more
intrusive or pushy than an email. An email can serve to remind the
person gently, whereas a call can catch a busy person at the wrong
time, and you wouldn't want that, especially if she has been getting
calls repeatedly from all candidates asking for the status of the
application!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
There are some recruiters who feel that
a follow-up email or call isn't necessary at all. But it depends
upon you – are you willing to take that extra time and effort for a
follow-up? Is the job worth it? It is your call. But of course,
there are a number of instances where a person has got the job mainly
because he stayed on its case!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Here are some guidelines on how to
write the right follow-up letter:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Mention your name and the position
for which you sent in your application.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Ask politely about the status of
the application, or whether all the candidates will be contacted.
You could also ask what the next step is in the hiring process.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If there have been changes in your
career, or if you have received the results of an examination during
this time, or if you want to add some more information, then this is
your opportunity to convey what you want to.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
You could also ask them to contact
you if they need some more information.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Reiterate that you are interested
in the job.
</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Keep it short.
</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you don't hear from them even
after this follow-up letter, you might want to consider giving up.
But if you feel that you are a strong contender for the job, then
you will probably not lose anything by sending another letter in
another two weeks, but you probably should draw a line at that!</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A follow-up letter is also an excellent
opportunity for additional contact after you have met someone in a
business meeting or at a networking event. If you had not been
looking for jobs at the time you met that contact, you can now mail,
reconnect and tell him about the developments in your career, and
then sound him about job availabilities.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This kind of a follow-up letter needs
to have these elements:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Show that you remember and
appreciate your first meeting.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tell them about developments in
your career, and that you are now looking for a job.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Tell them exactly what help you
require from them.</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Also, if you have spoken to a contact
over the phone about a job opportunity, it is a good idea to send a
follow-up letter after the call, which sums up everything that you
spoke about, and takes it forward from there. If you send your
resume along with this letter, and also provide additional details
about yourself in writing, it will help the other proceed with
aiding you in your job search.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The rules of a follow-up letter are the
same as those of other business letter. It has to be short, polite,
and free from errors. Most importantly, in the case of follow-up
letters, you must get the tone right – avoid sounding pushy and
complaining, and remain positive. If you are stumped, get <a href="http://resumefactor.com/" target="_blank">help!</a></div>
</div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-68359339628813260732012-06-21T01:04:00.003-07:002012-06-21T01:04:54.986-07:00Been laid-off? Here's what to put on your resume.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Getting <span class="il">laid</span> <span class="il">off</span> or retrenched is more
common in today's economy than you think. And consequently,
employers are also more lenient in hiring <span class="il">laid</span> <span class="il">off</span> workers, because
everybody now understands that a layoff has nothing to do with the
talents or abilities, or reliability of a person.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
But the question is, how do you address
this on your resume?
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Reasons for leaving are not
mentioned on a resume.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A resume is a document that showcases
your skills and abilities, and there is really no place for details
on why and how you left a job. So, there is no need to mention that
you were <span class="il">laid</span> <span class="il">off</span>.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
But, on the other hand, <b>don't hide</b>
it either. If you worked at that job from March 2010 to April 2012,
then resist the urge to put in "March 2010 to present."
That <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2011/06/thou-shalt-not-lie-on-your-resume.html" target="_blank">would be a lie.</a> Instead, put in "March 2010 to April
2012." You can do the explaining <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/search?q=fired" target="_blank">in the cover letter.</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Put in details of a temporary job.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After you were retrenched, if you took
on some other temporary job, say consulting, or freelance work, then
put that in as a filler, hence accounting for your work till the
present date. But ensure that it is legitimate work, and connected
to your job. It is okay even if it is voluntary work, a non-paying
job – the fact that you've not been idle will work to your
advantage.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Explain in the cover letter.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Use the cover letter to tell the
employer about your being <span class="il">laid</span> <span class="il">off</span>. You could use words like, "As you
might have heard, Company X was taken over by Company Y and a number
of jobs were eliminated, mine among them. It was a difficult time
for me, especially because my performance at Company X has always
been rated excellent. But I look forward to maintaining my track
record in the next company too."</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Highlight your accomplishments.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Use your resume to really show what
you've got. Use it to your best advantage. Here is where it helps
to <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2012/02/why-you-need-to-update-your-resume.html" target="_blank">update your resume regularly.</a> It is not as easy to sound
confident on the resume if you are feeling low after you lost your
job.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Get references from your seniors in
the previous job.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If your performance has truly been
good, nobody is going to grudge you a glowing reference letter.
These are very important for your landing a new job, since they come
from the very people who have been forced to eliminate your job.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Attitude is the key.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you are angry
about what happened to you, it is natural. Take some time <span class="il">off</span> if you
need it, but do brush it <span class="il">off</span>. Sound positive, and confident. Most
employers take a lenient view of retrenched employees, and your
positive attitude will help you be noticed, especially if your
credentials are rock-solid.
</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Being <span class="il">laid</span>-<span class="il">off</span>
isn't as much of a taboo as it was before. So you don't have much to
worry about. There are enough instances of people landing better
jobs after they have been retrenched. For all you know, this might
be a blessing in disguise for you. So go, get it!</div>
</div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-68353566861064376572012-04-15T10:00:00.003-07:002012-04-15T10:00:46.871-07:0015 pointers to effective networking for job-seekers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Career networking is one of the most important tools when you are looking for a job. But it is very easy to go wrong when you are trying to network, and then, your mistakes can really pull you down.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So here are a few pointers to get you started.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Understand why networking is important. Only a small fraction of jobs available are actually advertised. All the others are only filled by personal recommendations, and word-to-mouth information. Having a large network helps you get to know about the existence of these jobs.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Identify potential opportunities to network – office colleagues, ex-colleagues, social networking sites, alumni associations, professional organizations – and work systematically to establish yourself in all these places. When you start gaining contacts, list them or organize them in a database, or whatever works best for you.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Be active on a professional social network like<a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2012/01/10-ways-to-maintain-great-linkedin.html" target="_blank"> LinkedIn</a></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Join a professional organization that is related to your field. This is a great place to meet people who matter in your career</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Always keep copies of your resume handy. And try not to run out of business cards. You never know whom you will meet, and where.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Remember that professional networking is not all about receiving. Giving is equally, if not more important. If you surface only when you need something, and then vanish again after your work is done, you will lose credibility.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Whenever you meet new contacts, first make a personal connection. It matters a great deal. Find something common to talk about, or just ask inquire about the other person. And then go on to professional matters. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Talk less, listen more.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Don't sound desperate, even if you are. Maintain your cool, and sound confident. People are more likely to help those who look like they know what they are doing.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Don't hesitate to ask for help. People are by nature generally kind, and really want to help. Besides, it makes them feel important.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Respect boundaries. Don't spam people incessantly with your mails, or don't call them at odd hours. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Use correct personal, email and phone etiquette. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
When Person A has recommended you, or forwarded your resume to Person B, keep Person A informed about the developments. That way, Person A will know that you are serious, and that you respect what he has done for you.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you do land a job, then make sure to thank everybody who was directly or indirectly responsible for it. A phone call is nice, but a written thank-you is far better. Your courtesy and manners will not go unnoticed.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
After you get a job, don't disappear. Remain active in the network. You might be of help to somebody else. Besides you never know when you will need them again!</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So get networking!</div>
</div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-55883295648880214562012-04-07T09:40:00.000-07:002012-04-07T09:40:23.623-07:00Should you boast on your resume?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>"I am not a boastful person. I feel uncomfortable talking about my successes and accomplishments. I don't think I'll be okay with boasting on my resume."</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We've seen the resumes of highly accomplished candidates, who cloak their achievements in modest and drab words. Sometimes, they don't even mention some important events of their career, either thinking that it is not important or that it sounds too grand. And the result? A skilled, experienced worker, a great catch for any company – going around knocking on doors endlessly just because of an unimpressive resume.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A little bit of "boasting" or "bragging" is essential on a resume. But the key is to ensure that it does not sound like boasting. In fact, a resume that is overly boastful in nature, something that trumpets the candidates skills in your face, is viewed negatively by most employers. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So where do we draw the line between modesty and boasting?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>When you are writing your resume, if you know that you are not giving enough credit to yourself, but are afraid to go the other way for fear of sounding arrogant and pompous, relax. A resume has to be impressive and assertive for it to be of any use at all. </li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Just tell the truth. Just as you wouldn't inflate your resume, you mustn't even downplay it. List down everything you've ever done in your career before you start on your resume. And then you'll know what is the most important, and what is less important. Work that into your resume accordingly. That way, you'll be sure that you haven't missed anything. </div>
</li>
<li>The easiest and best way to put across your abilities without sounding pompous is to get rid of all the superlatives, the unnecessary adjectives, and instead, just <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2011/04/quantify-secret-to-improve-your-resume.html" target="_blank">quantify your achievements. </a></li>
</ul>
<br />
Example: A Boastful statement would look something this: "Took charge of department, successfully motivated employees and singlehandedly raised profits, thus exceeded by far the performance of predecessors." <br />
Now look at this: "Initiated improvements in the new department, which resulted in increasing employee productivity by 30 % and a turnover of 1.5 Mn USD, up 40 % from previous quarter."<br />
In the second example, you are stating the plain facts, but are not using words that sound like you are boasting. In addition, you are quantifying – two advantages in one! <br />
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Employers and recruiters can recognize fluff and hot air when they see it. They would have gone through so many resumes that they will know immediately if a resume has any substance or not. If you are truthful, and have enough proof to back up your claims, you need not worry about coming across as boastful or arrogant. </div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Use "bold" and "italics" to highlight the important parts of your resume – the skills and the achievements you feel are likely to best recommend you for the job.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Use separate sections for a group of important skills, for example, computer skills, so that they don't go unnoticed, clubbed with all your other skills.</div>
</li>
<li>Have a different section for your Awards, Honours, and Recognition.</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
If you are the kind who says, "I'd rather people find out about me on their own, from the work I do," then think about this. By having an unimpressive resume, you are not going to even give anybody the chance to give you a job and find out about you. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
So go ahead and give your resume the ego boost it deserves. All you need to do is show how your actions made a difference. And if any time you are not sure whether your resume has the right tone, get the help of <a href="http://www.resumefactor.com/" target="_blank">professional resume-writers.</a></div>
</div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-76743550180573013152012-02-29T08:07:00.000-08:002012-02-28T20:16:29.125-08:00Entry-level job-search mistakes - what not to do!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It is not exactly a cakewalk for an entry-level graduate who is out looking for a job. When the economy is not booming, it is even more difficult. And to top it all, if you are making mistakes in your job search, then it is even worse. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">But the good news is that these job search mistakes might be critical, but they can easily be set right. Here are a few job-search mistakes that you must avoid.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not having the right resume</b>. The first thing you must have has got to be a good resume. <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2011/07/17-tips-to-write-your-first-resume.html" target="_blank">Here are a few pointers on writing your first resume.</a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Obsession with a high salary.</b> It definitely sounds wonderful when you hear about someone landing a job with an eye-popping starting salary. But it cannot happen to everybody. If you get a job with a good company, and if it offers good prospects for advancement, then you must definitely go for it even if the salary is not that attractive. On the other hand, if you are offered a job with an attractive salary, but if you are going to be stuck at the same level for years, advancing neither professionally or personally, there is no point in taking it up at all.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Reluctance to start at the bottom.</b> There have been innumerable success stories about people who started small and made it big. If the job offered to you isn't in line with your expectation, don't refuse it outright. Poke around, find out if there are good chances of your learning something there, and also whether there is scope for advancement. If there is, there is no reason why you shouldn't go for that job. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not making use of career/recruitment centers in college</b>. Career counselors and placement coordinators in your school or university can offer a great deal in terms of information, contacts and network. Involving yourself in the placement office's activities is an invaluable way to gain insights that you wouldn't get otherwise. If you haven't already taken advantage of it during your course, then do it now. <br />
<br />
<b></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not being clear about what you want.</b> You need to have a clear goal, about where you want to go, and what you want to do, what kind of an industry you want to enter, and what kind of work you want to do. This is especially true if you are from a multi-disciplinary background, or if you have majored in several subjects and are interested in all of them. Only when you know what you want, can you proceed further with the right approach and research for your job hunt. A random and disoriented approach will not work at all. On the other hand, narrowing down your field too much is also not going to work for you. Not only will your options be limited, but you'll lose out on a chance to discover new avenues that you didn't know of, and which might turn out to be just right for you.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Being too particular about your place of work. </b>Unless you have some compelling issues that bind you to a certain place, keep the option of working away from your hometown open. It opens up a greater number of opportunities, and also widens your horizons. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Using only one mode of searching for jobs.</b> Don't depend only on the internet, or only on campus placements, or only on the classifieds of the newspaper. Don't even limit yourself to only the most popular job sites on the web. Spread your net far and wide. Keep checking on company websites too, there are jobs there that might not appear on job sites or advertisements. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not following the right etiquette on social networking sites.</b> <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2011/10/10-ways-to-prevent-facebook-from.html" target="_blank">Facebook can really pull you down if you don't use it wisely.</a> <br />
<br />
<b></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Slackening your pace.</b> It might happen that things are looking good with one prospective employer, and it might seem that it is going to work out for you. Great. But don't stop looking. Don't ever slow down unless you have the job offer in writing. You never know what might happen, they might change their mind, there might be changes in the industry, and they might decide that they cannot take you on after all... If you have slowed down because of an impending breakthrough with one company, and if it doesn't materialize, it can really set you back in your search.<br />
<br />
<b></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Applying for jobs you are not qualified for</b>. Don't waste time and effort applying for any job you find. <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2011/10/10-things-to-look-for-while-reading-job.html" target="_blank">Learn to read advertisements carefully,</a> and then proceed with caution.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not preparing for an interview.</b> Young people generally tend to be casual about their appearance. This is alright in a campus context, but when you are at an interview, pay attention to personal grooming. Many people also tend to treat interviews with indifference, but this is where you're going to be judged and chosen - or not. So prepare for an interview well.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Missing opportunities to gain experience.</b> A new job-seeker generally has no experience to speak of. So the best way to get an edge over other applicants is to have some kind of experience – and you'll be surprised to know how many ways are there to gain experience, whether it is connected to your subject or not. Internships, and assistantships of course, are invaluable, but apart from this, considering volunteering for jobs around the campus or the town. Even if not directly, the skills you learn in such jobs prepare you for dealing with a full-fledged job later, after you graduate. And recruiters know it too, and so they will value this. Another oft-ignored opportunity is to get involved in clubs, groups, and organizing committees in college. You'll meet people, learn new things, and of course, have lots of fun. You can mention these experiences on your resume for some brownie points, and you can draw on your experiences during an interview, and who knows, you could strike a connection with the interviewer while you are at it! The possibilities are limitless, and you must seize every opportunity that comes your way. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">So there you are. Now that you know what not to do, lace up your shoes and go for it!</div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-55524067009509927032012-02-20T20:24:00.000-08:002012-02-20T20:24:41.928-08:0010 Job Search Mistakes to Avoid<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A job search isn't something that works when done halfheartedly. It needs more effort than is generally assumed. And many job-hunters end up making mistakes that can seriously jeopardize their search. Here are a few job-search mistakes that you must avoid.</div><br />
<ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not giving it enough time.</b> If you are unemployed, you must treat job-hunting like a full time job in itself. Put in all your time and effort into it, and don't just set aside a couple of hours each day to it. Even if you are currently employed, you must devote a couple of hours each day to some serious efforts towards job-hunting. Otherwise, it is just not enough.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not doing enough research.</b> A job hunt needs extensive preparation. You must research the companies and industries and the kind of job you might be suitable for. This is especially true if you are job-hunting after a long break. Things change rapidly. The kind of jobs and nomenclature keep changing. Resume formats change, business etiquette changes. You must be up to date with all these changes in the job-scene. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Applying for just any job.</b> There is no use in applying for random jobs that you are not qualified for. This can happen in times of desperation, but desist. It is just a waste of your time and effort. And when no result comes out of it, it can be demoralizing too.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not having a near-perfect resume</b>. Assuming that nothing can be perfect, you simply must own the best resume that you can possibly have. It must be accomplishment-oriented, and must be tailored for every job that you are applying. In case you are not qualified to do it yourself, or if you think that you cannot do a good job of it, consider approaching<a href="http://www.resumefactor.com/" target="_blank"> professional resume-writers</a>. It is a worthy investment.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Focusing only on one kind of job search</b>. Don't rely only on one source to help you with your job hunting, for example, just the internet, or just one job site on the internet. Scan the newspapers, go via LinkedIn, tap your contacts, make phone calls, get in touch with professional staffing firms. Spread your net far and wide, but don't lose your focus. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not being prepared enough for an interview.</b> You must go to every interview as if it were the only interview you'll ever be granted. Prepare for it extensively beforehand. Research the company thoroughly, google for it, look through your LinkedIn contacts to see if anybody can give you inside information on the working of the company. Try and get your hands on their quarterly reports. And don't forget the common HR questions. Concentrate on your appearance, and go with confidence. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not following up</b>. Whether you have sent across your resume and cover letter, or have just finished an interview, you must follow up. Some people think that following up is a sign of desperation, but it can make a huge difference to whether you make or break it. A thank-you note immediately after an interview, or a polite follow-up call or email a few days after you've contacted them – these can help move things along quicker, and might work in your favour.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not networking enough.</b> In any business, and in some businesses more than others, it is important to network. Keep in touch with all your contacts whether you need them or not. Approaching them only when you need to get work done can be off-putting. Offer your help, and go out of your way to assist them when they need it, because you never know when you will be on the receiving end. So, when you do need their help, you can be sure that they'll be available for you when you need them, whether to let you know about opportunities, or introduce you to potential employers, or just giving you some tips and information that will help you with your search. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not managing your job search well</b>. A full-fledged job hunt can be overwhelming in terms of the information overload. You might have several different versions of your resume tailored for different jobs, and you have to keep track of where you have sent which resume, from where a reply is due, and all the other little things that go into any search of this magnitude. Organize it well. There are many online tools available, like <a href="http://www.jibberjobber.com/" target="_blank">JibberJobber</a> and <a href="http://careershift.com/" target="_blank">CareerShift</a> which can help you with this. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Not having an online presence</b>. You simply must have a well-established online presence. Whether it is your site or a good <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2012/01/10-ways-to-maintain-great-linkedin.html" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> profile, you must pay attention to it, and maintain it well. Job recruiters are increasingly going online for information about you, and the easier you make it for them, the better it is for you. </div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Stay positive always, and steer clear of these job-search mistakes, and you'll be well on your way to bagging that job. </div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-51482499952418165212012-02-06T21:48:00.001-08:002012-02-06T21:49:53.305-08:00Why you need to update your resume regularly<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Are you actively looking for a job? Are you secure (or think you are!) in a job in which you've been working for years, and have no intention of leaving? Are you bored of your job? Stuck in a rut? Is something in the corner of your mind telling you that it is time for a change? Whatever category you fall in, it is simply essential to keep your resume constantly updated. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Experts advise you to update your resume once every six months, or every time you complete a major project/deal/activity. But why is it so important to keep your resume up-to-date?<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Here are some reasons:<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><i><b>For those who aren't really looking for a change, or are bogged down by inertia.</b></i></div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Gets things moving. </b>The very act of approaching your resume with a view of updating it leads to a subtle change in your attitude. It makes you view your job and career from the outside, and you tend to look at yourself with new eyes. It might set off an entirely unexpected chain reaction, and lead you to better and greener pastures.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>You'll know what you are lacking. </b>The problem about being in a job for too long is that you are so comfortable that your professional growth suffers. Updating your resume is a great way to take account of what has been happening in your career so far, whether you or on track, and what you are lacking. It might expose gaps in your learning and skills, and it might urge you to do something to set it right.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Taking charge of your own life. </b>Updating your resume opens up new paths. New windows might open up, and you might discover potential opportunities in situations you never expected. And consequently, it might take you to places you never even dreamed you could reach. Updating your resume doesn't put you in a place that compels you to act on it. On the other hand, it puts you in a position where you have the upper hand, where you can act if you so wish. And that feeling is very empowering, and might have positive repercussions on the quality of your present job too!</div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><i><b>For those who are aware that they might want to, or need to change jobs sometime in the future:</b></i></div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>The shaky economy.</b> You might think you are safe in your job, but the economy now is not very stable. You can never know when you'll be out looking for a job. Even if you are excellent at your work, the truth is that layoffs are not necessarily based on the employee's worth, but rather on the cost to the company. So it is always good to be prepared.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Let's hope that this won't happen, but if it does, it is inevitable that your self-esteem will suffer a blow. So if you start off updating your resume in that frame of mind, there is a possibility that an element of self-doubt will enter everyhting you do, and it will definitely reflect on your resume. And we don't want that, do we? It is always a good idea to work on the resume when you are on a high, and what better time to do it than when you've just finished a project, got an award, received an appreciation...?</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Opportunity doesn't knock twice.</b> Whenever jobs open up, there is always a great hurry to fill it up quickly, since work cannot stop. Naturally, when headhunters are looking for potential candidates, you have to apply as quickly as possible. You cannot possibly sit down at that time and start working on your resume, can you? There is no time for that. And anything done in a hurry is sure to be shoddy and unimpressive. So, it pays to sit down, give it time and do up your resume well, and have it ready when you need it. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It might also happen that even if you are not looking out for a job, something might crop up out of somewhere, an ex-colleague might tell you about an interesting opening at his company, you might meet the CEO of an exciting startup at a party, and he might ask for your resume – you never know what is around the corner! It will definitely be a shame if you have to let go of a golden opportunity just because your resume is not up-to-date.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>You'll forget details. </b>You might feel that you're hardly likely to forget the details of a project that you've worked on. But it is a fact that the older something becomes, the more likely you are to forget the minutiae. So, as soon as you finish something, or achieve something, or complete a course, or finish a certification, or receive an award, note it down immediately in your resume. If you have emails of appreciation, make a note of them. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>It'll help in performance reviews.</b> You'll definitely want to highlight your best achievements to your boss. She may remember the big things, but it is up to you to remind her of the little things you've achieved. If you forget them yourself, how can you expect others to remember them? Jotting down these little achievements helps you in these reviews. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Resumes grow old</b>, terms grow obsolete. You have to keep up with the times. Earlier, a Personal details section was the norm in resumes. Including those details in the present age might actually be detrimental to your chances. Also, there are some job titles which are not used any longer. Secretary, for example, is now something like Administrative Assistant. Even technology becomes obsolete. Saying that you did a course in BASIC is just laughable now. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Also, if you have extensive experience, of more than say, 15 or 20 years, then it is time to start taking down your first few jobs, and retain only the latest few, because recruiters are more interested in what you've done in recent times. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>It'll improve your self-esteem. </b>If you look at a list of your achievements and accomplishments, I'm sure you'll feel a sudden flush of pride and happiness. A well done, updated resume will do just that for you. And we don't have to tell you that a feeling of self-worth can do wonders for your job and even for the quality of your life!</div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">So, if you haven't done so yet, stop reading this and go and update your resume. And of course, if you need expert help, our <a href="http://resumefactor.com/" target="_blank">experienced resume writers</a> will do it for you!</div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-36092483922357236792012-01-31T07:08:00.000-08:002012-01-31T07:15:41.949-08:0015 mistakes to watch out for while using LinkedIn<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Like any social network, having a <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> profile means that you are putting yourself out there for the world to see. Especially because a person's professional reputation can be very sensitive and have far-reaching repercussions, be very very careful about what you say online. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">And here are some pointers about what to watch out for while using <span class="il">LinkedIn</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Don't use <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> like Facebook. </b><span class="il">LinkedIn</span> is an entirely professional social network. Where Facebook lets you be in touch with family and friends, <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> connects you with your colleagues and business associates. The netiquette for <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> is entirely different. So do watch out.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Don't display the wrong kind of photograph:</b> Whenever you are working with <span class="il">LinkedIn</span>, remember, Professional, Professional, Professional. That means that if you are putting up a photograph of yours, it has to be a no-nonsense photograph of your face. It helps if your features are clear in the snap– it can help people who've met you only once, or a long time ago, place you immediately.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Don't collect connections indiscriminately.</b> There are users who go around sending connection requests to people they've never met, or have no connection with. This is absolutely unpardonable. Similarly, don't accept connections that you don't recognize.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Don't send connection requests without an introduction</b>. In a professional scenario, there are chances that the other person doesn't really remember you immediately, and might need a bit of a memory jog. So always include a personal message introducing yourself, giving a reference as to where you've met or how you know each other. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Don't send unsuitable recommendation requests</b> – Don't ask for recommendations when the other person hardly knows you, or you haven't worked together, and especially if your work hasn't been exactly stellar. It can put your contact in an uncomfortable place. Also don't sound like you are grovelling for a recommendation. It can create an unpleasant impression.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In the same way, <b>don't write recommendations for people you don't know too well.</b> Refuse politely but firmly. Also, if it turns out that you have written a glowing recommendation for a sloppy worker, just to be nice, it won't reflect well on you.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>This is not a forum for airing your thoughts.</b> In the section "What are you working on now?" include a small relevant sentence or two, and update it perhaps a couple of times in a week or ten days. Don't keep updating your status multiple times a day. There is already information overload in the virtual world, and people might not take too kindly to constant bombardment from you.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Do not join just any group</b> for the sake of increasing the number. Join only relevant groups, only those that have a direct connection to your career or to your field of interest.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Lay low on the self-aggrandizement</b> on your profile. Even if you are a terrific worker, and you know it, keep your tone moderate. Let your worth be shown by your recommendations!</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Don't lie </b>on your profile. The same rules apply as <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/06/thou-shalt-not-lie-on-your-resume.html" target="_blank">of the resume.</a></div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Check, double-check your language for <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/03/speling-misteks.html" target="_blank"><b>grammar and spelling errors. </b></a></div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Don't copy-paste</b> your profile from your resume, or from some other profile.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Tempting as it might be, <b>don't use <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> for making friends or for dating. </b>Use Facebook for that.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">If you have created a group, <b>be sure to moderate</b> it regularly, and be active on it. If you let yourself go slack, it won't show you in the best light.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Not <b>updating your profile </b>regularly is as bad as maintaining a sloppy profile. </div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Please add your own tips in the comments section! <br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">So there you are, everything that you need to know about using <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> effectively - <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2012/01/10-ways-to-maintain-great-linkedin.html">how to maintain a good profile</a> and <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.in/2012/01/10-ways-to-use-linkedin-effectively-for.html">how to use LinkedIn for your job search</a>, and what to watch out for! <br />
<br />
LinkedIn is a great tool for enhancing your professional life, so use it wisely and well.</div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-40602272476030798612012-01-27T09:27:00.000-08:002012-01-27T09:27:57.149-08:0010 Ways to use LinkedIn effectively for your job search.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="il">LinkedIn</span> can be a very convenient place if you are looking for jobs. Once you have <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2012/01/10-ways-to-maintain-great-linkedin.html">built up a great LinkedIn profile, </a>you can start on your job search.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Here are ways to make use of <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> in your job search.</div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/jobs" target="_blank"><b><span class="il">LinkedIn</span> Jobs</b></a> has a huge number of job listings that are updated every day. Very often, jobs are listed here before they are put up elsewhere. So this is an excellent way to keep track of openings that are suitable to you.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Be active in groups</b> and try and answer questions regularly in <b><span class="il">LinkedIn</span> answers</b>. It will get you noticed, and if you play your cards well, your skills and experience will be noticed. A job might even come looking for you! </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">This can also help in establishing new connections, and might result in some great recommendations too. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Use your <b>headline </b>to indicate that you are looking for a job. Use words like "seeking new vistas/challenges/<wbr>opportunities." Don't sound desperate though, and don't sound as if you are doing nothing else but looking for a job!</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">You could use <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> to search for people on your network that have the <b>same job or educational profile</b> as you, and find out where they work. So you'll know potential companies that you can apply to. You can also keep a check to see if anybody has left their company, or have been promoted, hence leaving a position open. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Include all your <b>resume skills and keywords</b> in your profile, so that your profile will come up in specific searches.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">If there is a job listed directly on <span class="il">LinkedIn</span>, you can see how you are connected to the Hiring personnel. You can then <b>apply directly online,</b> or can request a common link to refer you, using the referral facility. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">If you have landed an interview, you could use <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> to check out the person you are scheduled to meet. It might help to know a little about the person in order to create the best impression. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">You can use the<b> <a href="http://learn.linkedin.com/company-pages/" target="_blank"><span class="il">LinkedIn</span> Company Pages</a></b> to check out the company that you have applied for, and gauge the health of the company. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Once you land a new job, you can use <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> to find colleagues and <b>strike a rapport </b>with them. This will not only help you from blending in quicker, it might also help give you an insight into the work culture much faster than if you went the regular way. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">If you are a <b>freelancer,</b> <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> can be a great asset. It is far easier for a person working in a company to get a recommendation or a reference, than for a freelancer. As soon as you finish a job, you could connect with your client and ask for a recommendation. A handful of good recommendations can make getting further work easier.</div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">This is by no means a comprehensive list. Please add your own tips in the comments section. If <span class="il">LinkedIn</span> has helped you find a job, tell us your story!</div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-67006863865729414612012-01-16T20:10:00.001-08:002012-01-27T09:29:27.330-08:0010 Ways to Maintain a Great LinkedIn Profile<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> is the largest online professional network in the world. It is a great way to promote your professional identity online. It is focused on building and maintaining business relationships. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
Having a LinkedIn profile is a sure asset to any professional. You can use it to give people an idea about your achievements and your career path. Besides, LinkedIn has a very high google ranking. If you google someone's name, chances are that her LinkedIn profile will be the top result. And since the trend now is to research people online before hiring them, maintaining a good LinkedIn profile is a very sensible thing to do. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
Though LinkedIn is definitely a great way to establish a good professional network, it can be an indispensable tool in your job search, since you can update it regularly, and even upload your resume. It is highly likely that sometime in the near future, it will become very common to apply directly to jobs using your LinkedIn profile.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Here are some tips on how to maintain a good LinkedIn profile. </div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Fill up all the fields, don't leave anything blank. It has been shown that a <b>100 % complete LinkedIn profile</b> is viewed in a better light than one with a lot of blanks.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Add a <b>photograph </b>to your profile. Profiles with photos are nine times more likely to be viewed. Use a photograph that portrays a professional you. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Use an <b>arresting headline</b>. That is the first thing that anybody who is viewing your profile will notice. If you don't change your headline manually, the default will be your job title and your company, which isn't really enough, and sometimes not even self-explanatory. So make the headline as specific as possible, and at the same time all-encompassing. A tip: Think of what your USP is, and include important keywords in it. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">When filling up a LinkedIn profile, just like in your resume, lay emphasis on <b>what you have done</b>, rather than what your job responsibilities are. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Establish a <b>good network of contacts</b>. Send connection requests to colleagues, ex-colleagues, former classmates, friends, business associates, clients. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Ask for <b>recommendations.</b> You'll need three recommendations to complete your profile. The more, the better, but again, let there be a limit. Recommendations from your recent work is essential, and let that be in the majority. But good recommendations from different points in your career helps to prove that your performance has been consistent. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Join <b><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/directory/groups/" target="_blank">groups</a> </b>on LinkedIn that are relevant to you – for example, your Company Group, Alumni group of your college, professional associations and professional groups. You can even start a group of your own, but be sure to keep it active. And make sure you participate in discussions in these groups. Monitor all the discussions that are happening. If you are looking actively for a job, keep a sharp eye out for leads.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Be regular on<a href="http://www.linkedin.com/answers/" target="_blank"><b> LinkedIn Answers </b></a>and display your knowledge and skills by answering questions regularly. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Update your profile regularly. Keep all information current, all the time. If you have uploaded your resume, make sure that the latest version is online. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Customize your LinkedIn profile url to your own name. It will make searching for you that much easier.</div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/linkedin-for-dummies-cheat-sheet.html" target="_blank">Here is a great page</a> with more details on how to use LinkedIn to your advantage.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div>It is worth the time and effort to establish a good LinkedIn profile. It can <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2012/01/10-ways-to-use-linkedin-effectively-for.html">help you in your job search,</a> and can enhance your professional life and career in ways you might not even have thought of.</div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-16607926080469381452011-11-14T19:54:00.000-08:002011-11-14T19:54:01.205-08:00Talk about KPIs in your resume and give it that edge!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div id=":6b"> <div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>KPI or Key Performance Indicators</b> help an organization define and measure how well they are doing in relation to their organizational goals. A KPI indicates to the stakeholder whether the company is on track. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">After an organization has identified its mission statement and listed its objectives, it needs some measure or indicator that will tell it how it is progressing. This is what the KPI does. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The KPI differs depending on the organization.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A school might have a KPI that indicates the number of students graduating with distinction each year, or the number of students who land a job on campus each year. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">An IT organization's KPI might be the number of projects delivered on time and to the client's satisfaction, every quarter.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A tailoring shop could base the KPI on the number of tailored garments produced each week. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Some more examples:</b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Training department of an organization - % of employees provided with refresher course, Average training cost per employee, Number of courses offered in a quarter</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Production KPI – Defects per million, Average production cost, Scrap value %, etc.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The KPI must reflect an <b>organization's goals.</b> An IT major might be involved in several philanthropic activities, but its KPI will not be the number of underprivileged children fed each day, since that is not its basic objective, but just something they do on the side. Its KPI will be more on the lines of profit and customer satisfaction.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A KPI must be<b> quantifiable</b>. "Be the best takeaway in town" is not a valid KPI, because there is no way you can measure it, and be sure that it is indeed the best in town. On the other hand, "Number of repeat customer orders," "Total value of orders processed each day," makes more sense, and gives a better indicator of the kind of work it is doing, and will give a fair idea of the popularity of this takeaway as compared to the competition.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It is a quick and easy way of checking out the actual performance, and aids in quicker decision-making. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>KPIs on your resume: </b> It is very important to discuss KPIs on your resume.For one, prospective employers are pleased to know that you are concerned about how your performance affects the company's success. Two, when you are aware of the KPIs, it shows that you are committed to making your performance count. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">When listing out your job profile, write down a few significant KPIs. Then talk about your specific action that contributed towards that KPI. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Example 1: If you are in a maintenance team that has to track, log and fix errors quickly, and if these errors tend to pile up and create a huge backlog, and you have developed a new system to bring these errors back onto the priority list, this is what you can do:</div><blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="border-left: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); margin: 0pt 0pt 0pt 0.8ex; padding-left: 1ex;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Reduced error backlog time.</b> Developed a new program to assign high priority to logged errors older than 3 days, resulting in an increase in the rate of error fixing by 50%</div></blockquote><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Here, rate of error fixing is the KPI, and you have shown that your actions aided this KPI.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Example 2: </div><blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="border-left: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); margin: 0pt 0pt 0pt 0.8ex; padding-left: 1ex;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Reduced turnaroud times:</b> Used a new system of switching turntables that sets up the next item on the assembly line immediately, hence reducing turnaround time by 75%.</div></blockquote><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In this example, Reduced turnaround time is the KPI.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Using KPIs effectively in your resume will strengthen it immeasurably. Be prepared to talk about KRAs and KPIs in your interview too! It is a surefire way to impress your prospective employer!</div></div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-64944682756694837812011-11-14T19:52:00.001-08:002011-11-14T19:55:39.952-08:00How to use KRAs effectively in your resume.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>KRA or Key Result Area</b> is the area of result/outcome/output for which an individual is responsible. It can also be said that the KRAs is the set of primary responsibilities of the individual.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Examples:</b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Marketing KRAs might include Market Research, Sales Support, Advertising and Pricing.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Administration KRAs could be Equipment maintenance, Visitor Protocol, Safety Management, Backup management.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Finance KRAs are Payroll, Costing, Financial analysis, Regulatory reporting.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The KRAs account for only about a little more than three-quarters of a role. The rest involves miscellaneous work, like team-work, mentoring, and participating in events, all of which ultimately adds up to boosting the value of the organization. Typically, there are 3-5 KRAs for every role.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Identifying and listing down the KRAs for a role has several advantages:</div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The role is clarified, both to the role-holder, and to others.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The focus is on the result required from the role, rather than the activities involved.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The role can be viewed in the perspective of its value to the organization, and how it affects the business plan and strategy. </div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Allows prioritization of activities, leading to good time-management.</div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">When Key Result Areas are worded,</div><ul><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Verbs are not used – because these are not activities, but just the resulting output required.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">There is no adjective or value-adding word used, like increase, decrease, good, better, etc. </div></li>
</ul><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Take the example of a store. All the employees in the store, from the salespeople, cashier, janitor and security, have a common area of responsibility – customer satisfaction. But this doesn't count as a KRA, because it is a general expectation from all the employees. KRAs will have to be more specific. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The salesperson's KRAs might be</div><ul><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Customer rapport</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Products sold</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Stocking of merchandize.</div></li>
</ul><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The janitor's might be </div><ul><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Washed floors</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Toilet supervision</div></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">If you are still not certain about what your KRAs are, here is a simple guide that will help you pin them down.</div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Make a list of all your responsibilities and activities that you do everyday.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Take each one, and ask yourself the question, "Why do I do this?" Note it down.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Once you are done with the list, look at the answers to the "Why" question. You will undoubtedly be able to find common areas of work among them. Club them together, and give them a relevant name. </div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">And there you have it, your KRAs.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Having focused KRAs gives you a sense of direction and purpose in your work. Having goals clearly defined helps in reaching them easier. And since you know where to prioritize, you work smarter.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>KRAs on your resume:</b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It is an advantage to talk about your KRAs in your resume </div><ul><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It shows that you know what exactly you do and why you do it.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Helps the prospective employer see at a glance what you do, and how that will benefit her and her organization.</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The employer will appreciate that the candidate takes responsibility for his actions and works towards fulfilling his expected output.</div></li>
</ul><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Find an opportunity to insert your KRAs in your resume for that extra edge!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-5877991101006000662011-11-01T10:10:00.000-07:002011-11-01T10:10:23.094-07:00How to get your resume noticed on job portals<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">If you are interested in a particular job with a specific company, then sending your <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/search/label/Resume" target="_blank">resume</a> to them along with a <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/search/label/Cover%20Letter" target="_blank">cover letter</a> is the best thing to do. But what if you are not really looking at anything in particular? What if you are just fishing, looking for opportunities? Or what if you are just desperate for a job, any job? Then, uploading your resume on Job Portals is one of the best ways to search for jobs.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">But there are dozens of Job Portals out there, and tens of thousands of resumes uploaded onto them. Not to mention employers neck-deep in work, in a great hurry to find new talent.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">How do you make sure that your resume gets noticed?</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It is not enough if you upload your resume and then sit back and wait for your inbox to get flooded with interview calls. Even if you have a good resume, you have to put in a little extra effort for your resume to get noticed in a crowd.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Fill in the details correctly</b>. Most job portals have a questionnaire that you need to fill in. Ensure that you don't leave anything out. Pay attention to each question. Filling in a questionnaire might not be the most exciting thing on the planet, but doing this well is the best thing you can do for yourself. At every step, stop and think if what you have just said is something that will make a prospective employer sit up and take notice.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Location – consider listing this as "No preference." You might be able to negotiate for your choice of location once you land the job. But listing a specific job location might shunt out your resume in the first search itself.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Salary preferred – note down a salary range rather than one specific figure.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Use generic Job Titles. Some job titles might be company-specific, and might not be understood by everybody. In that case, use job titles that are the norm in the industry.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Have multiple resumes.</b> Maintain more than one resume, each targeted towards a different kind of job.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Use the right keywords.</b> Employers don't have much time, and they have thousands of resumes to sift through. So they usually make use of search engines to bring up suitable resumes for their perusal. And they use keywords to search. So, including appropriate keywords in your resume is the best way to ensure that your resume comes up in relevant searches. Do a little bit of research. Go through job postings and make a list of the most often repeated keywords, and use them in your resume. In cases where there are acronyms, devise a way to use both the acronym and the expansion in your resume. For example, use both "HR" and "Human Resources." That way, whichever search term the employer uses, your resume will turn up.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Keywords also include qualifications, years of experience, and designation.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Big names</b> – If you have worked with big companies, popular brands, and prestigious clients, mention and highlight that, because some employers may look for this specifically in a prospective employee's resume.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Keep your resume updated.</b> Log into your profile regularly, and keep updating your resume, so that it always shows up as current. If the employer is sorting the resumes from the latest to the oldest, yours will be in among the first few.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Update, check and double-check your <b>contact details.</b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><br />
</b></div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Post your resume on many job portals. </b>Select the ones that are most popular with job-hunters and recruiters alike.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div></li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">And always, always, remember the basic rule – your resume has to be well-crafted and free of <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/03/speling-misteks.html" target="_blank">spelling and grammar mistakes</a></div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Looking for jobs has never been easier – just a couple of clicks away. But that extra bit of care and effort is what it takes to separate the wheat from the chaff. Happy hunting!</div><div><br />
</div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-37593605782776722502011-10-14T20:17:00.000-07:002011-10-14T20:17:11.686-07:0010 Things to look for while reading a Job Ad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
You have a good resume, and you have
been applying for job after job, but still haven't heard from
anybody. Why? One of the reasons could be that you haven't been
reading Job Ads correctly.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This is a common problem that many
people, especially new job seekers, face. Since they are entirely new
to the game, they have no idea how to read and analyze a job posting,
and they end up wasting lots of time applying for the wrong jobs, or
applying to the right job in the wrong way.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
It is very important to read a job ad
correctly. Apart from all the time you save by it, you can also
tailor your resume and cover letter around it. This will make your
application stand out, and you will get better results in your job
search. Also, if you do land an interview, you have the requisite
information to approach the interview with confidence, using the
information you gleaned from the job ad.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Here are a few things to look out for
when reading a job ad.</div>
<ol>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The Company</b> with the job opening– Make sure it is a
valid company, and that they can afford to pay you!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The Job Title</b> – Different
companies have different names for the same job. You had been a
Software Programmer in your previous company, and are applying for
the post of Programmer Analyst in the next company, because it
sounds fancy, and looks like you might be making the next grade. But
then it might turn out that this is just the name the company gives its
entry-level software programmers.
Then you are just wasting time. This is where the job description
comes in handy.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Job Description</b> – You need to
see if the Job Title tallies with the Job Description. The Job
Description is what you need to concentrate on, if you want to
ascertain that you are applying for the right kind of job for you.
Make sure that the responsibilities this job entails are in
accordance with the skills and experience they have asked for. Keep
your eyes open for any inconsistencies.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The Essential/Necessary
Requirements</b> – All job ads specify the qualifications/number of
years of experience/skills needed. Words like "must have"
"you need" "essential" "necessary"
"mandatory" "required" are the words that
indicate this. If you don't fulfill these criteria, you can very
well stop wasting your time with this job. But be aware that as
always, there are exceptions. For example, if the job requires you
to have a PhD in a certain field, but you have no PhD but 20 years
of experience in the field, then it does make sense for you to
apply, with an explanation in the cover letter. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>The Preferred Qualifications.</b>
After stating the necessary skills, there is usually another phrase
or statement that tells you what skills they would prefer. Here is where you can take a
chance even if you don't have the prefered skills. But you must
prove in your resume or cover letter that you have the motivation
and the ability to pick up these skills on the job. "Prefered"
"Desired" "Ideally" "Preferably" are
the words that indicate that these qualifications are not absolutely necessary for
the candidate to have.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Key statements and phrases in the
job ad.</b> Read the job ad well. Really well. Note down the key
statements in the ad. If the ad specifies "Negotiation skills"
and "highly motivated" then you must include specific
statements in your resume (preferably <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/04/quantify-secret-to-improve-your-resume.html" target="_blank">quantified,</a> or using <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/09/par-statements-best-weapon-in-your.html" target="_blank">PAR statements)</a> that shows how your skills in negotiation landed a plum
order for your previous company. And how you and your team kept up
a constantly high sales quarter after quarter. Tailor your resume
with these phrases in mind and you are well on your way to being
noticed.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Keywords </b>– Take a note of all
the keywords used in the job ad, and use the same words, exactly in
the same way in your cover letter and resume. When the company does
a search on their database with these keywords, your resume will
come up straightaway. For example, if the company asks you to be
proficient with "MS Office" in the ad, then use "MS
Office" rather than "Microsoft Office" in your
resume.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Take note of the tone and language
of the job ad.</b> Read this ad, and read other ads by the same
company. You will get an idea of the kind of work culture and the
kind of communication used here. Let your cover letter and resume
reflect that. If the job ad uses a lot of jargon, you could use jargon
too. If the company sounds like a young, informal start up, then you
can afford to be relaxed and familiar in your correspondence, without
going over the top, of course. If the company seems straitlaced and
formal, keep your tone that way. When in doubt, err on the side of
caution. Keep your language formal.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Look out for special instructions.</b>
If the ad says, "Apply by email within three days," then
you must apply only by email and within three days. Many candidates
miss out because they miss these statements, that are not
immediately apparent, but are very important.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If they mention the<b> salary</b>, make
sure that it is in accordance with your worth.</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Keep these pointers in mind while
reading a job ad, and you are already on your way to certain
success!</div>
</div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-4849212646234516682011-10-09T22:03:00.001-07:002011-10-09T22:04:00.026-07:0010 Ways to Prevent Facebook from hurting your job chances!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are you a fan of social networking sites? Do you have a thriving social life on
Facebook, and a huge following on Twitter?
Then, do you know that what you do online can seriously affect
your job search and career advancement?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When used wisely and well, social networking can do your
career a world of good, especially if you are in a field where developing a
network and building contacts is of vital importance to you. But what you say and do online can adversely
affect you in ways you might not even have imagined. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Studies have shown that apart from the customary background
checks, nearly 25% of employers are looking up their present and
future employees on Google to see what they are up to in the virtual
world. Your resume might be perfect and
impressive, your credentials might be rock-solid, but if a potential employer stumbles
upon photos of you at a wild night at the beach, you might have to say goodbye
to your dream job. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You might argue that what you do away from the job is your
personal affair. But the fact is that it
is online, and free for anybody to view.
And if a prospective employer is concerned about the respectability of
his company, and wants to check out what kind of a person you are in your personal
life, then nobody can stop him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even seemingly harmless status updates like, “Gosh, I’m so
tired. Is this week never going to end?” might be construed as dissatisfaction with
the job, and lack of motivation. You
never really know how your statements can be perceived. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even blogs can get you into trouble. You might write under an assumed name, and might
not even mention the name of your company, but just one jealous co-worker who
knows about your blog might prove to be your undoing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Never!” you might say.
“My co-workers are my friends! They’d never give me away!” But how do you know? This is a dog-eat-dog world, and the
competition is fierce. Who can say who
might turn against you? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This doesn’t mean that you must go off social
networking. There are just a few things
you must keep in mind. </div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"></span>Make all your details private, so that only
friends can see what you post. There are privacy options on networking sites
for a reason. Make use of them. But do remember that these settings are not
foolproof.</li>
<li><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Take care when adding co-workers or bosses to
your friends’ list. Make sure you know
whom to add and whom not to. Sites like
Google Plus offer the option of adding different people to different circles. This
could be made use of to your advantage. </li>
<li>Make friends with only people you know.</li>
<li>Be totally aware of what you post. Before making any update to your status, see
if it is completely harmless. Ensure
that it does not tarnish your image in any way, or embarrass you.</li>
<li><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"></span>When you update or upload something, think of
its long term consequences.</li>
<li>Keep pictures to a minimum, especially those
that portray you in an unprofessional way. </li>
<li><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"></span>Be mindful of what you “Like” on sites. Photos, videos or links that you choose to “Like”
may portray you as racist, sexist or even childish. </li>
<li><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"></span>When you comment on other people’s walls, or
blogs, be aware that these might be shared, and might be public. </li>
<li><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"></span>If you have a blog in your own name, never,
ever, write anything about your job or your company, or your work, or anything
related to it. If you write under a pseudonym,
then you can be more relaxed, but even then, don’t put up pictures, and make
sure that your co-workers don’t know about your blog. There have been innumerable instances of
people being fired by what they wrote on their blogs.</li>
<li>A person is known by the company he keeps. So make sure that you know who you are
linking up with, or following. </li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If all these warnings puts you off, relax. All you need is to use your judgement. In fact, if your bosses or co-workers are on
your friends’ lists, then you can easily engineer your status updates to portray
you in a constantly positive light. You
can use your own name to maintain blogs or sites online where you can show prospective
employers by your writing and comments and observations that you are in touch
with the latest in the field. Do see
that you don’t plagiarize, though. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The internet can be your greatest friend, or it can be your nemesis. It is by your actions and judgement that you
can make it what you want it to be. </div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-70088423016790201962011-09-08T21:01:00.000-07:002014-08-30T01:36:22.095-07:00PAR Statements - The best weapon in your arsenal!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>PAR Statements, or Problem (or
Situation or Challenge) – Action – Result Statements,</b> are also
referred to as <b>Accomplishment Statements.</b> They describe a problem
that you faced, the action you took to overcome that problem, and the
result of your action. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
PAR statements reflect your skills and
abilities, and are a validation of your experience. Using these
statements in your resume gives the prospective employer an idea of the
kind of
contribution you will most likely make in the future.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Strengthen these statements further by
<a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/04/quantify-secret-to-improve-your-resume.html" target="_blank">quantifying</a> them. That will make PAR statements the most effective
tools you can use to present your case. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
An example of a PAR statement is:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i>Tackled a lack-lustre sales team
(Problem) by introducing attractive employee incentives, improving
team morale (Action), resulting in a 30 percent increase in
productivity within one quarter. (Result)</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
A good PAR statement also displays your
skills and abilities in the action you have taken. In the above
example, your people-management skills are brought to the fore.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
While building a resume from scratch,
it is natural to wonder if you actually have any achievement worth
speaking of. Here is something to jog your memory.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Think of:</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The work you are most proud of.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Any internal processes or systems
that you redesigned/improved.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Money you saved the company or the
client.</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Any special projects you worked
in.
</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Any new programs or systems or
processes you designed or implemented</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Awards and recognitions you won</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
If you found something, then you have a
potential PAR statement all ready to be prepared. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Now, structure your PAR statements this
way:</div>
<ul>
<li>Define the problem/challenge/situation.</li>
<li>What was your action?
</li>
<li>What obstacles were you required to
overcome?</li>
<li>What was the result, how did it benefit
the company?</li>
<li>What skills did you use when you took
action on the problem?</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Now, put them all together into one
concise statement. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
For example:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>Problem:</b> An old tool, used for
bug-reporting and fixing, was being used for years in the company.
It was an integral part of the software process. But it had become
unwieldy, as a result of numerous additions, updates and fixes. It
also took a very long time to function.
</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>Action</b>: With appropriate
data re-engineering tools, analyzed and restructured the entire system
within six months.</i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>Result</b>: Smooth and fast operation of
the tool. Resulted in reduction of 20 percent of time spent on it.
Increased productivity by 35 percent.
</i></div>
<div style="margin-left: 40px;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>PAR statement:</b> Restructured an old and
unwieldy bug-fixing tool, critical to the software process, within
six months, hence reducing the time spent working with the tool by 20
%, and increasing productivity by 35 %.
</i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Another example:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>Problem: </b> The inventory system in the
factory was outdated. There was overstocking of some items,
resulting in deterioration of quality over time. Many items were not
available when required. The number of back orders was spiraling
upwards.
</i></div>
<div style="margin-left: 40px;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>Action:</b> Developed and implemented a
Master Production Schedule and Forecaster, that overhauled the entire
inventory system.</i></div>
<div style="margin-left: 40px;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>Result:</b> Within six months, the
inventory costs reduced by 35%, causing a USD 5 Mn saving for the
company. Customer back orders were found to be the lowest in the
history of the company.
</i></div>
<div style="margin-left: 40px;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;">
<i><b>PAR Statement:</b> Developed and
implemented a Master Production Schedule and Forecasting System that
overhauled the existing outdated Inventory system, resulting in
inventory cost savings of USD 5 Mn within six months, and a record
low of customer back orders.</i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Once you have the PAR statement ready,
here is a checklist to see if it is complete.</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Is it specific?</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Is it quantified or measurable?</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Is it realistic?</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Does it mention a time-frame?</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Use action words to start these PAR statements, and make them as concise as you possibly can, without
letting go of any of the important elements that might impress the
prospective employer. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
PAR statements are an excellent way to
put your achievements into perspective. A good PAR statement
helps in boosting your confidence, as well as giving that extra kick
to your resume. It is a weapon well-worth having in your arsenal!</div>
</div>
Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883029837210312878.post-85232419964201940912011-08-31T20:20:00.000-07:002012-07-03T21:06:38.460-07:004 Components of a great Executive Cover Letter<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A resume that is accompanied by a good cover letter always has a better chance of getting to the top of the pile. And this is even more valid for executive resumes.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It is surprising how many executive candidates go through all the effort to craft a great resume, but go slack on the cover letter, making it boring (recapping the resume) or generic (a formality) or too personal and informal.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">A cover letter must have <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/03/basics-of-cover-letter.html" target="_blank">three basic components</a>, an introduction, a section that speaks about you and your abilities, and a strong finish. And remember, recruiters look for people who are interested in that job, not just a job.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">An executive cover letter is going to be looked at by the top-level people, and therefore there is a greater responsibility for the cover letter to be perfect in its presentation and formatting, and must be sophisticated and authoritative. You have to make a compelling case for yourself. So, do follow the <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/03/elements-of-great-cover-letter.html" target="_blank">dos</a>, and please don't follow the <a href="http://resumefactor.blogspot.com/2011/04/top-10-cover-letter-mistakes-to-avoid.html" target="_blank">don'ts</a> of a good cover letter!<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">These are the things to remember when writing a good executive CV.</div><ol><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Give a good introduction of yourself. Start with a strong, forceful statement. Briefly, outline your expertise, qualification and the "X-factor" that you possess. </div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;"><i>e.g. More than ever before, multinationals are in need of proven performers who get results in competitive environments and tough economies. As a Finance Executive with over 20 years of experience in xxx and xxx in diverse economic situations and industries, I am qualified to be the Director of Finance with your company xxx. </i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><ol start="2"><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">State where you are working, and what your position is. And then give an example or two of a recent achievement or a major project completed, that will underscore your abilities and achievements. This statement has to reflect not only your skills, but must also be relevant to what the company needs at that time. If you have been working for a long time, with a lot of projects, it might not be easy to pick just a couple of examples to highlight, but don't worry, your resume will handle the others.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">At this stage of your career, the skill that is most valuable to you is that of problem-solving. So, if you are in doubt which accomplishment to include in your letter, think of those where you handled a challenge successfully.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">But when you mention your achievements, make sure that it is not a copy-paste from your resume. Write it in different words. When in doubt, imagine that you are speaking to someone who is asking you about your best work. That should show you the way. </div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;"><i>e.g.. In my current assignment as a CFO at xxx I have played a pivotal role in establishing xxx, codifying Finance and Commercial processes, and streamlining processes that have saved the company $USD X million.</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;"><i><br />
</i></div><ol start="3"><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It is important to show that your performance has been consistent. Take this opportunity to show that you are reliable, by bringing in some statements to show your past achievements. Don't worry if you have to add an extra paragraph to your cover letter. Since this is an executive cover letter, your experience would be greater, and more deserving of some extra space on the letter. But yet, don't stretch the whole letter beyond a page.</div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 40px;"><i>e.g. As an AVP at xxx, I reduced Annual Audit and Accounting duration from 150 days to 28 days, while at xxx, I handled Investment planning of INR 5 billion, and achieved a cost reduction of 60% through significant changes in xxx. </i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><ol start="4"><li><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">End with a bang. Put in a word about how passionate you are about your work – prove that you actually enjoy it, and speak about how you feel that this job and the company excite you. If there is something else about you that gives you an edge over the competitors, your obsession with details, for example, or your charm that makes it very easy for people to see eye to eye with you, then this is the place to mention it. After that, end with a request for an interview. Give them a time frame, and say that you'll get in touch with them after that. This gives a picture of you as firm and decisive. </div></li>
</ol><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">All the best with your cover letter – it is well worth the time you'll spend on it. Who knows, it might make all the difference in that step up in your career!</div></div>Resume Factorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17424357757934169315noreply@blogger.com0