Why Shouldn't I Start A Resume Without A Specific Job Goal?

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Why Shouldn't I Buy A Resume Based on Price?

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Why Shouldn't I Start A Resume Without A Specific Job Goal?

As a resume writer, I speak to a number of people. Most of them know what kind of job they are seeking. Every so often, however, I encounter someone different. The exchange generally goes like this:

ME: "What job are you seeking?"

CLIENT: "I don't know. At this point, I'll take anything."

ME: "That's not a good way to go about writing a resume. You really need to focus on some kind of job in order to be successful."

CLIENT: "But I don't know what kind of job I want. Can't you just write me a resume anyway?"

If the conversation persists like this, I explain to the client that if they don't know what they want, I can't ethically take money from them, because they're asking me to write a resume that I know will fail. I know this because I know how employers think, and what they want to see in a resume.

There's a fundamental reason why employers don't want to see resumes without clear job goals: If you write a directionless resume, you are asking the employer to tell you what kind of job you should have. That's not up to the employer, that's up to you. An employer reads a resume with just one question in mind: "What's in it for me?" If your resume doesn't answer that question, the employer has a whole stack of resumes stretching halfway to the ceiling, from candidates who will.

That alone is something I believe people forget: competition. When you submit your resume to an employer, you are one of approximately 400 candidates jockeying for a single job. It's hard enough to get the employer to read your resume, even if it's perfect. If you come across as directionless, that employer will toss your resume into the circular file.

"So," you ask, "how do I decide what I want to do before I write my resume?" One method would be to consider the jobs you've had previously and eliminate the ones you wouldn't take again on a bet. Then consider your strengths, the things you've accomplished outside of work, the activities you enjoy doing. Is there some way you could find a job doing one of them? Ask yourself if there's something you love to do so much that you'd do it without pay.

If those methods fail, there are books on the subject, prime among them What Color Is Your Parachute? by Richard Bolles. You won't go wrong with that one. There's also one called I Don't Know What I Want But I Know It's Not This by Julie Jansen. Each of these can be found on Amazon, Barnes&Noble.com, or any other online bookstore. Read them. Learn from them.

Just don't send out an "I'll take anything" resume.

Jack Mulcahy has written hundreds of resumes for people from all walks of life. Each resume he writes shows the unique selling proposition so necessary to market the job seeker. To learn more about Jack and how he can work to help your resume gain interviews, visit his website at http://www.resumesbyjack.com/.

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3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Just Copy Your Resume Into Your LinkedIn Summary

Many people on LinkedIn make the mistake of copying their resume summary statements into their LinkedIn Summary section. There are three major problems with this strategy:

Problem #1: Trite Phrases

Often your resume summary is laden with overused phrases like "Results-oriented team player with a proven track record... " or "Dynamic, motivated self-starter with extensive experience... "

If your resume summary looks anything like the above examples, please rewrite it and hire a professional resume writer if necessary! This type of language belongs neither on your resume nor in your LinkedIn profile.

Problem #2: LinkedIn Summary Real Estate

You have 2000 characters at your disposal for a LinkedIn Summary, vs. three to four lines maximum for your resume summary. Why would you choose not to use all that real estate to say something - really say something - about yourself?

Problem #3: Keywords

Your LinkedIn Summary is an essential place for you to insert keywords if you want to be found on LinkedIn. By inserting a 3-line summary, you lose out on your chance to build keywords into your profile.

Resume Summary Example - For Resumes Only

Here's an example of a very strong resume summary statement that does NOT belong in a LinkedIn Summary (note I DO like this statement as a resume summary statement - in fact I wrote it!):

LeeAnn Dance - Producer - Writer - Editor

Award-winning television producer and groundbreaking investigative reporter - experience covering issues ranging from pre-election to international news, with special emphasis on East Africa. Creator and writer of highly acclaimed documentaries and promotional videos for non-profit organizations. Eight years as producer for CNN.

LinkedIn Summary Example - Great Model!

What would a LinkedIn Summary look like for LeaAnn? Here is the statement we wrote for her:

Award-winning investigative and documentary television producerVideo production and broadcast journalism have been my passions for over 20 years, ever since receiving my MS in Journalism from Columbia University. I have produced everything from groundbreaking news stories for CNN to promotional videos for non-profit organizations, and I am currently hosting a blog radio show for parents relaunching their careers.My journalism background gave me the ability to distill a large amount of material and hone in on what's true and important. I can pinpoint the real message that needs to be conveyed, creating a human story that moves and inspires an audience.Promotional Videos for Non-Profit Organizations

As a freelance video producer, I specialize in creating high caliber, professional and creative promotional videos for non-profit and educational organizations. I understand the budgetary constraints of non-profit organizations and will work within a range of budgets and scope of work.

Funders respond to high quality video presentations that effectively convey your organization's message. I will take your message, target it, and transform it into a concise and meaningful array of pictures, words, and sounds. You will then have the power of an impactful video to present your organization's activities at fundraising events and through the web.

In addition to being a video producer, I was a stay-at-home mom for 13 years, and I am committed to providing resources to women who are returning to the workforce. My blog ***, chronicles my journey and shares information about the return-to-work process.

Blog topics include emotional roadblocks to relaunching, preparing your resume, updating your wardrobe, and preparing your family for re-entry.

Check out my weekly blog talk radio show on relaunching your career, with guests including authors, career counselors, therapists, and employers. (www.blogtalkradio.com/***)

What works about this example?

Conveys LeeAnn's story and her passion (the resume summary does not).Contains multiple keywords that will get LeeAnn found on LinkedIn.Covers the different facets of what LeeAnn has to offer.Draws the eye to sub-headings so that readers can easily see what LeeAnn is about. The text is broken into bite-sized pieces, not so blocky that no one will read it.Has a call to action.

Note that the resume summary does NONE of these five things, even though it is perfectly great as a resume summary.

Can you write a LinkedIn Summary Statement for yourself that accomplishes at least four out of the five functions listed above? If yes, great - go for it! If you need help, consider hiring a professional to write you a LinkedIn Summary that will help you get found on LinkedIn and have the impact you want on the people who read your profile.

http://www.theessayexpert.com/
For writing that gets results.

Brenda Bernstein, Founder and Senior Editor, BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com

Brenda Bernstein, Certified Advanced Resume Writer and accomplished editor and LinkedIn trainer, holds an English degree from Yale University and a J.D. from the NYU School of Law. She is the author of the highly-acclaimed e-book, How to Write a KILLER LinkedIn Profile. Brenda delivers webinars on LinkedIn and resume writing that have been attended by thousands of job seekers and other professionals seeking to establish a professional image on LinkedIn.

Specialties: Resumes, Cover Letters, College Application Essays, Professional Bios, LinkedIn Profiles

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4 Words You Shouldn't Use In Your Cover Letter

Certain words appear in almost every cover letter. I've explained below why you don't want to use 4 of these too-common words and what some alternatives might be.

If you want to make your cover letter stand out, do some editing and make sure to avoid these words completely. You might be surprised at the result.

1. HOPE

e.g. I hope to hear from you soon.

OR

e.g. I hope to be able to contribute my skills to ABC company.

Why not?

Hope springs eternal. The company doesn't care about your hopes and dreams. They care about what you can do for them.

Alternatives:

I look forward to speaking with you further regarding my qualifications.

OR

My ability to take clear, decisive action will allow me to make an impact at ABC company from day one.

OK, now we're talking!

2. HONE

e.g. This summer, I honed my research and writing skills through a position at XX law firm.

Why not?

You and every other person honed something. It's an outdated and overused expression. Tell them what you did and they will figure out that you honed your skills. If you absolutely must, use "strengthened," "developed," or even "sharpened."

Alternative:

My research regarding constitutional rights violations culminated in a report and recommendations that guided the ACLU in future actions.

It's obvious this person is using some powerful research and writing skills.

3. DRAWN

e.g. I am drawn to ABC company because of its outstanding reputation and high quality service.

Why not?

You get drawn to a person across a crowded room. Companies don't care to hear that you are drawn to them. And a bonus tip: companies with outstanding reputations don't need to be told that you want to work there because of their outstanding reputations.

Alternative:

The relationship management skills I built while working in a state office are a match for ABC company's commitment to outstanding customer relationships.

That's so much better, isn't it?

4. FEEL

e.g. I feel the relationship management skills I built while working in a state office are a match for ABC company's commitment to outstanding customer relationships.

Why not?

Can you see how adding "I feel" at the beginning of this sentence killed it completely? Tell a psychologist how you feel. Tell a company what you can do for them. If you must, use the word "believe" instead of "feel." But see if you can avoid this type of language altogether.

Alternative:

The relationship management skills I built while working in a state office are a match for ABC company's commitment to outstanding customer relationships.

Delete these four words from your cover letters and I promise you more creative and powerful language will show up.

http://www.theessayexpert.com/

For writing that gets results.

Brenda Bernstein, Founder and Senior Editor, BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com

Brenda Bernstein, Certified Advanced Resume Writer and accomplished editor and LinkedIn trainer, holds an English degree from Yale University and a J.D. from the NYU School of Law. Over her 15 years as Senior Editor at The Essay Expert, Brenda has coached hundreds of professionals and companies to write resumes, essays and other materials that result in sought after job interviews, admission to top schools, and measurable business success.

Specialties: Resumes, Cover Letters, College Application Essays, Professional Bios, LinkedIn Profiles

Read more ...

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Just Copy Your Resume Into Your LinkedIn Summary

Many people on LinkedIn make the mistake of copying their resume summary statements into their LinkedIn Summary section. There are three major problems with this strategy:

Problem #1: Trite Phrases

Often your resume summary is laden with overused phrases like "Results-oriented team player with a proven track record... " or "Dynamic, motivated self-starter with extensive experience... "

If your resume summary looks anything like the above examples, please rewrite it and hire a professional resume writer if necessary! This type of language belongs neither on your resume nor in your LinkedIn profile.

Problem #2: LinkedIn Summary Real Estate

You have 2000 characters at your disposal for a LinkedIn Summary, vs. three to four lines maximum for your resume summary. Why would you choose not to use all that real estate to say something - really say something - about yourself?

Problem #3: Keywords

Your LinkedIn Summary is an essential place for you to insert keywords if you want to be found on LinkedIn. By inserting a 3-line summary, you lose out on your chance to build keywords into your profile.

Resume Summary Example - For Resumes Only

Here's an example of a very strong resume summary statement that does NOT belong in a LinkedIn Summary (note I DO like this statement as a resume summary statement - in fact I wrote it!):

LeeAnn Dance - Producer - Writer - Editor

Award-winning television producer and groundbreaking investigative reporter - experience covering issues ranging from pre-election to international news, with special emphasis on East Africa. Creator and writer of highly acclaimed documentaries and promotional videos for non-profit organizations. Eight years as producer for CNN.

LinkedIn Summary Example - Great Model!

What would a LinkedIn Summary look like for LeaAnn? Here is the statement we wrote for her:

Award-winning investigative and documentary television producerVideo production and broadcast journalism have been my passions for over 20 years, ever since receiving my MS in Journalism from Columbia University. I have produced everything from groundbreaking news stories for CNN to promotional videos for non-profit organizations, and I am currently hosting a blog radio show for parents relaunching their careers.My journalism background gave me the ability to distill a large amount of material and hone in on what's true and important. I can pinpoint the real message that needs to be conveyed, creating a human story that moves and inspires an audience.Promotional Videos for Non-Profit Organizations

As a freelance video producer, I specialize in creating high caliber, professional and creative promotional videos for non-profit and educational organizations. I understand the budgetary constraints of non-profit organizations and will work within a range of budgets and scope of work.

Funders respond to high quality video presentations that effectively convey your organization's message. I will take your message, target it, and transform it into a concise and meaningful array of pictures, words, and sounds. You will then have the power of an impactful video to present your organization's activities at fundraising events and through the web.

In addition to being a video producer, I was a stay-at-home mom for 13 years, and I am committed to providing resources to women who are returning to the workforce. My blog ***, chronicles my journey and shares information about the return-to-work process.

Blog topics include emotional roadblocks to relaunching, preparing your resume, updating your wardrobe, and preparing your family for re-entry.

Check out my weekly blog talk radio show on relaunching your career, with guests including authors, career counselors, therapists, and employers. (www.blogtalkradio.com/***)

What works about this example?

Conveys LeeAnn's story and her passion (the resume summary does not).Contains multiple keywords that will get LeeAnn found on LinkedIn.Covers the different facets of what LeeAnn has to offer.Draws the eye to sub-headings so that readers can easily see what LeeAnn is about. The text is broken into bite-sized pieces, not so blocky that no one will read it.Has a call to action.

Note that the resume summary does NONE of these five things, even though it is perfectly great as a resume summary.

Can you write a LinkedIn Summary Statement for yourself that accomplishes at least four out of the five functions listed above? If yes, great - go for it! If you need help, consider hiring a professional to write you a LinkedIn Summary that will help you get found on LinkedIn and have the impact you want on the people who read your profile.

http://www.theessayexpert.com/
For writing that gets results.

Brenda Bernstein, Founder and Senior Editor, BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com

Brenda Bernstein, Certified Advanced Resume Writer and accomplished editor and LinkedIn trainer, holds an English degree from Yale University and a J.D. from the NYU School of Law. She is the author of the highly-acclaimed e-book, How to Write a KILLER LinkedIn Profile. Brenda delivers webinars on LinkedIn and resume writing that have been attended by thousands of job seekers and other professionals seeking to establish a professional image on LinkedIn.

Specialties: Resumes, Cover Letters, College Application Essays, Professional Bios, LinkedIn Profiles

Read more ...

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Just Copy Your Resume Into Your LinkedIn Summary

Many people on LinkedIn make the mistake of copying their resume summary statements into their LinkedIn Summary section. There are three major problems with this strategy:

Problem #1: Trite Phrases

Often your resume summary is laden with overused phrases like "Results-oriented team player with a proven track record... " or "Dynamic, motivated self-starter with extensive experience... "

If your resume summary looks anything like the above examples, please rewrite it and hire a professional resume writer if necessary! This type of language belongs neither on your resume nor in your LinkedIn profile.

Problem #2: LinkedIn Summary Real Estate

You have 2000 characters at your disposal for a LinkedIn Summary, vs. three to four lines maximum for your resume summary. Why would you choose not to use all that real estate to say something - really say something - about yourself?

Problem #3: Keywords

Your LinkedIn Summary is an essential place for you to insert keywords if you want to be found on LinkedIn. By inserting a 3-line summary, you lose out on your chance to build keywords into your profile.

Resume Summary Example - For Resumes Only

Here's an example of a very strong resume summary statement that does NOT belong in a LinkedIn Summary (note I DO like this statement as a resume summary statement - in fact I wrote it!):

LeeAnn Dance - Producer - Writer - Editor

Award-winning television producer and groundbreaking investigative reporter - experience covering issues ranging from pre-election to international news, with special emphasis on East Africa. Creator and writer of highly acclaimed documentaries and promotional videos for non-profit organizations. Eight years as producer for CNN.

LinkedIn Summary Example - Great Model!

What would a LinkedIn Summary look like for LeaAnn? Here is the statement we wrote for her:

Award-winning investigative and documentary television producerVideo production and broadcast journalism have been my passions for over 20 years, ever since receiving my MS in Journalism from Columbia University. I have produced everything from groundbreaking news stories for CNN to promotional videos for non-profit organizations, and I am currently hosting a blog radio show for parents relaunching their careers.My journalism background gave me the ability to distill a large amount of material and hone in on what's true and important. I can pinpoint the real message that needs to be conveyed, creating a human story that moves and inspires an audience.Promotional Videos for Non-Profit Organizations

As a freelance video producer, I specialize in creating high caliber, professional and creative promotional videos for non-profit and educational organizations. I understand the budgetary constraints of non-profit organizations and will work within a range of budgets and scope of work.

Funders respond to high quality video presentations that effectively convey your organization's message. I will take your message, target it, and transform it into a concise and meaningful array of pictures, words, and sounds. You will then have the power of an impactful video to present your organization's activities at fundraising events and through the web.

In addition to being a video producer, I was a stay-at-home mom for 13 years, and I am committed to providing resources to women who are returning to the workforce. My blog ***, chronicles my journey and shares information about the return-to-work process.

Blog topics include emotional roadblocks to relaunching, preparing your resume, updating your wardrobe, and preparing your family for re-entry.

Check out my weekly blog talk radio show on relaunching your career, with guests including authors, career counselors, therapists, and employers. (www.blogtalkradio.com/***)

What works about this example?

Conveys LeeAnn's story and her passion (the resume summary does not).Contains multiple keywords that will get LeeAnn found on LinkedIn.Covers the different facets of what LeeAnn has to offer.Draws the eye to sub-headings so that readers can easily see what LeeAnn is about. The text is broken into bite-sized pieces, not so blocky that no one will read it.Has a call to action.

Note that the resume summary does NONE of these five things, even though it is perfectly great as a resume summary.

Can you write a LinkedIn Summary Statement for yourself that accomplishes at least four out of the five functions listed above? If yes, great - go for it! If you need help, consider hiring a professional to write you a LinkedIn Summary that will help you get found on LinkedIn and have the impact you want on the people who read your profile.

http://www.theessayexpert.com/
For writing that gets results.

Brenda Bernstein, Founder and Senior Editor, BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com

Brenda Bernstein, Certified Advanced Resume Writer and accomplished editor and LinkedIn trainer, holds an English degree from Yale University and a J.D. from the NYU School of Law. She is the author of the highly-acclaimed e-book, How to Write a KILLER LinkedIn Profile. Brenda delivers webinars on LinkedIn and resume writing that have been attended by thousands of job seekers and other professionals seeking to establish a professional image on LinkedIn.

Specialties: Resumes, Cover Letters, College Application Essays, Professional Bios, LinkedIn Profiles

Read more ...

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Just Copy Your Resume Into Your LinkedIn Summary

Many people on LinkedIn make the mistake of copying their resume summary statements into their LinkedIn Summary section. There are three major problems with this strategy:

Problem #1: Trite Phrases

Often your resume summary is laden with overused phrases like "Results-oriented team player with a proven track record... " or "Dynamic, motivated self-starter with extensive experience... "

If your resume summary looks anything like the above examples, please rewrite it and hire a professional resume writer if necessary! This type of language belongs neither on your resume nor in your LinkedIn profile.

Problem #2: LinkedIn Summary Real Estate

You have 2000 characters at your disposal for a LinkedIn Summary, vs. three to four lines maximum for your resume summary. Why would you choose not to use all that real estate to say something - really say something - about yourself?

Problem #3: Keywords

Your LinkedIn Summary is an essential place for you to insert keywords if you want to be found on LinkedIn. By inserting a 3-line summary, you lose out on your chance to build keywords into your profile.

Resume Summary Example - For Resumes Only

Here's an example of a very strong resume summary statement that does NOT belong in a LinkedIn Summary (note I DO like this statement as a resume summary statement - in fact I wrote it!):

LeeAnn Dance - Producer - Writer - Editor

Award-winning television producer and groundbreaking investigative reporter - experience covering issues ranging from pre-election to international news, with special emphasis on East Africa. Creator and writer of highly acclaimed documentaries and promotional videos for non-profit organizations. Eight years as producer for CNN.

LinkedIn Summary Example - Great Model!

What would a LinkedIn Summary look like for LeaAnn? Here is the statement we wrote for her:

Award-winning investigative and documentary television producerVideo production and broadcast journalism have been my passions for over 20 years, ever since receiving my MS in Journalism from Columbia University. I have produced everything from groundbreaking news stories for CNN to promotional videos for non-profit organizations, and I am currently hosting a blog radio show for parents relaunching their careers.My journalism background gave me the ability to distill a large amount of material and hone in on what's true and important. I can pinpoint the real message that needs to be conveyed, creating a human story that moves and inspires an audience.Promotional Videos for Non-Profit Organizations

As a freelance video producer, I specialize in creating high caliber, professional and creative promotional videos for non-profit and educational organizations. I understand the budgetary constraints of non-profit organizations and will work within a range of budgets and scope of work.

Funders respond to high quality video presentations that effectively convey your organization's message. I will take your message, target it, and transform it into a concise and meaningful array of pictures, words, and sounds. You will then have the power of an impactful video to present your organization's activities at fundraising events and through the web.

In addition to being a video producer, I was a stay-at-home mom for 13 years, and I am committed to providing resources to women who are returning to the workforce. My blog ***, chronicles my journey and shares information about the return-to-work process.

Blog topics include emotional roadblocks to relaunching, preparing your resume, updating your wardrobe, and preparing your family for re-entry.

Check out my weekly blog talk radio show on relaunching your career, with guests including authors, career counselors, therapists, and employers. (www.blogtalkradio.com/***)

What works about this example?

Conveys LeeAnn's story and her passion (the resume summary does not).Contains multiple keywords that will get LeeAnn found on LinkedIn.Covers the different facets of what LeeAnn has to offer.Draws the eye to sub-headings so that readers can easily see what LeeAnn is about. The text is broken into bite-sized pieces, not so blocky that no one will read it.Has a call to action.

Note that the resume summary does NONE of these five things, even though it is perfectly great as a resume summary.

Can you write a LinkedIn Summary Statement for yourself that accomplishes at least four out of the five functions listed above? If yes, great - go for it! If you need help, consider hiring a professional to write you a LinkedIn Summary that will help you get found on LinkedIn and have the impact you want on the people who read your profile.

http://www.theessayexpert.com/
For writing that gets results.

Brenda Bernstein, Founder and Senior Editor, BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com

Brenda Bernstein, Certified Advanced Resume Writer and accomplished editor and LinkedIn trainer, holds an English degree from Yale University and a J.D. from the NYU School of Law. She is the author of the highly-acclaimed e-book, How to Write a KILLER LinkedIn Profile. Brenda delivers webinars on LinkedIn and resume writing that have been attended by thousands of job seekers and other professionals seeking to establish a professional image on LinkedIn.

Specialties: Resumes, Cover Letters, College Application Essays, Professional Bios, LinkedIn Profiles

Read more ...

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Just Copy Your Resume Into Your LinkedIn Summary

Many people on LinkedIn make the mistake of copying their resume summary statements into their LinkedIn Summary section. There are three major problems with this strategy:

Problem #1: Trite Phrases

Often your resume summary is laden with overused phrases like "Results-oriented team player with a proven track record... " or "Dynamic, motivated self-starter with extensive experience... "

If your resume summary looks anything like the above examples, please rewrite it and hire a professional resume writer if necessary! This type of language belongs neither on your resume nor in your LinkedIn profile.

Problem #2: LinkedIn Summary Real Estate

You have 2000 characters at your disposal for a LinkedIn Summary, vs. three to four lines maximum for your resume summary. Why would you choose not to use all that real estate to say something - really say something - about yourself?

Problem #3: Keywords

Your LinkedIn Summary is an essential place for you to insert keywords if you want to be found on LinkedIn. By inserting a 3-line summary, you lose out on your chance to build keywords into your profile.

Resume Summary Example - For Resumes Only

Here's an example of a very strong resume summary statement that does NOT belong in a LinkedIn Summary (note I DO like this statement as a resume summary statement - in fact I wrote it!):

LeeAnn Dance - Producer - Writer - Editor

Award-winning television producer and groundbreaking investigative reporter - experience covering issues ranging from pre-election to international news, with special emphasis on East Africa. Creator and writer of highly acclaimed documentaries and promotional videos for non-profit organizations. Eight years as producer for CNN.

LinkedIn Summary Example - Great Model!

What would a LinkedIn Summary look like for LeaAnn? Here is the statement we wrote for her:

Award-winning investigative and documentary television producerVideo production and broadcast journalism have been my passions for over 20 years, ever since receiving my MS in Journalism from Columbia University. I have produced everything from groundbreaking news stories for CNN to promotional videos for non-profit organizations, and I am currently hosting a blog radio show for parents relaunching their careers.My journalism background gave me the ability to distill a large amount of material and hone in on what's true and important. I can pinpoint the real message that needs to be conveyed, creating a human story that moves and inspires an audience.Promotional Videos for Non-Profit Organizations

As a freelance video producer, I specialize in creating high caliber, professional and creative promotional videos for non-profit and educational organizations. I understand the budgetary constraints of non-profit organizations and will work within a range of budgets and scope of work.

Funders respond to high quality video presentations that effectively convey your organization's message. I will take your message, target it, and transform it into a concise and meaningful array of pictures, words, and sounds. You will then have the power of an impactful video to present your organization's activities at fundraising events and through the web.

In addition to being a video producer, I was a stay-at-home mom for 13 years, and I am committed to providing resources to women who are returning to the workforce. My blog ***, chronicles my journey and shares information about the return-to-work process.

Blog topics include emotional roadblocks to relaunching, preparing your resume, updating your wardrobe, and preparing your family for re-entry.

Check out my weekly blog talk radio show on relaunching your career, with guests including authors, career counselors, therapists, and employers. (www.blogtalkradio.com/***)

What works about this example?

Conveys LeeAnn's story and her passion (the resume summary does not).Contains multiple keywords that will get LeeAnn found on LinkedIn.Covers the different facets of what LeeAnn has to offer.Draws the eye to sub-headings so that readers can easily see what LeeAnn is about. The text is broken into bite-sized pieces, not so blocky that no one will read it.Has a call to action.

Note that the resume summary does NONE of these five things, even though it is perfectly great as a resume summary.

Can you write a LinkedIn Summary Statement for yourself that accomplishes at least four out of the five functions listed above? If yes, great - go for it! If you need help, consider hiring a professional to write you a LinkedIn Summary that will help you get found on LinkedIn and have the impact you want on the people who read your profile.

http://www.theessayexpert.com/
For writing that gets results.

Brenda Bernstein, Founder and Senior Editor, BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com

Brenda Bernstein, Certified Advanced Resume Writer and accomplished editor and LinkedIn trainer, holds an English degree from Yale University and a J.D. from the NYU School of Law. She is the author of the highly-acclaimed e-book, How to Write a KILLER LinkedIn Profile. Brenda delivers webinars on LinkedIn and resume writing that have been attended by thousands of job seekers and other professionals seeking to establish a professional image on LinkedIn.

Specialties: Resumes, Cover Letters, College Application Essays, Professional Bios, LinkedIn Profiles

Read more ...

4 Words You Shouldn't Use In Your Cover Letter

Certain words appear in almost every cover letter. I've explained below why you don't want to use 4 of these too-common words and what some alternatives might be.

If you want to make your cover letter stand out, do some editing and make sure to avoid these words completely. You might be surprised at the result.

1. HOPE

e.g. I hope to hear from you soon.

OR

e.g. I hope to be able to contribute my skills to ABC company.

Why not?

Hope springs eternal. The company doesn't care about your hopes and dreams. They care about what you can do for them.

Alternatives:

I look forward to speaking with you further regarding my qualifications.

OR

My ability to take clear, decisive action will allow me to make an impact at ABC company from day one.

OK, now we're talking!

2. HONE

e.g. This summer, I honed my research and writing skills through a position at XX law firm.

Why not?

You and every other person honed something. It's an outdated and overused expression. Tell them what you did and they will figure out that you honed your skills. If you absolutely must, use "strengthened," "developed," or even "sharpened."

Alternative:

My research regarding constitutional rights violations culminated in a report and recommendations that guided the ACLU in future actions.

It's obvious this person is using some powerful research and writing skills.

3. DRAWN

e.g. I am drawn to ABC company because of its outstanding reputation and high quality service.

Why not?

You get drawn to a person across a crowded room. Companies don't care to hear that you are drawn to them. And a bonus tip: companies with outstanding reputations don't need to be told that you want to work there because of their outstanding reputations.

Alternative:

The relationship management skills I built while working in a state office are a match for ABC company's commitment to outstanding customer relationships.

That's so much better, isn't it?

4. FEEL

e.g. I feel the relationship management skills I built while working in a state office are a match for ABC company's commitment to outstanding customer relationships.

Why not?

Can you see how adding "I feel" at the beginning of this sentence killed it completely? Tell a psychologist how you feel. Tell a company what you can do for them. If you must, use the word "believe" instead of "feel." But see if you can avoid this type of language altogether.

Alternative:

The relationship management skills I built while working in a state office are a match for ABC company's commitment to outstanding customer relationships.

Delete these four words from your cover letters and I promise you more creative and powerful language will show up.

http://www.theessayexpert.com/

For writing that gets results.

Brenda Bernstein, Founder and Senior Editor, BrendaB@TheEssayExpert.com

Brenda Bernstein, Certified Advanced Resume Writer and accomplished editor and LinkedIn trainer, holds an English degree from Yale University and a J.D. from the NYU School of Law. Over her 15 years as Senior Editor at The Essay Expert, Brenda has coached hundreds of professionals and companies to write resumes, essays and other materials that result in sought after job interviews, admission to top schools, and measurable business success.

Specialties: Resumes, Cover Letters, College Application Essays, Professional Bios, LinkedIn Profiles

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Resume Tips - The Things You Shouldn't Include

Always remember that your resume is your first and final impression on the prospective employer and hence, it should be a lasting one. You cannot let it go waste by sending a poorly written resume to the potential employer. You should make your application impressive, strong and attention grabbing. For this, you can refer different resume writing tips and resume examples. These tips for resume will help you in making your application stand out from other job applications. For drafting an impressive application, it is important for you to know the things that should be included in your CV. Also, it is equally important to know what should not be included or strictly avoided in your application. Here we will discuss some of the important things that should not be included in your CV.

Things to Avoid in CV

Too much information

Do not include too much information in your resume. Lengthy resumes get rejected in most cases. Although some of them may impress employers, but why take chances. Include only the information that is most relevant to the position you are applying.

Generic objective statements

Generic resume objective statements should be avoided in your CV. Instead you can use the statements targeting the job position. List the skills and relevant accomplishments in your objective statement.

Unclear information

Make sure that the information you provide is clear and accurate. Do not provide unclear and vague information. Describe clearly the position you are seeking in the company and list the relevant skills in your CV that makes you suitable for working in the position.

Negatives of previous jobs

You may require giving the reason for your job change in your resume or cover letter. Do not say anything negative about your previous job or your previous employer. This will show your unprofessionalism and employer will not consider your application with required attention.

Irrelevant experience details

Irrelevant work experience in your CV will unnecessarily increase its length. As discussed earlier, lengthy resumes will get least attention from the recruiters and reduce your chances of getting a job interview.

Lies about Work Experiences

If you have listed that you have been working in the company for 5 years on a managerial position, recruiters may call your previous employer to confirm the information. If this information is untrue, employer may take serious action against you. They may cancel your candidature from the recruitment process. If you are not sure about your existing skills for getting you the opportunity, you can focus on other qualities and explain to the employer how these qualities will help you in working efficiently with increased efficiency.

Grammatical Mistakes

Grammar and spelling mistakes have always been a problem in resumes. Such errors should be strictly avoided as it can make the employer think that you don't even care to go through your application once to look for any errors and you are too irresponsible to handle the job responsibilities associated with the position. This can be a strong reason for them to reject your application if there are too many grammatical and spelling mistakes in your CV.

These important resume tips will definitely provide helpful to you in your job run. Follow all these tips while designing your application and get attention from the employers.

Alan also written on cover letter and resume template.

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