Resume & Cover Letter Writing: Writer

Showing posts with label Writer. Show all posts

1/30/13

But the Resume Writer Guaranteed I'd Find a Job!

Why Hire a Professional Resume Writer?

1/29/13

How to Spot the Real Expert Resume Writer

Finding a Trustworthy Online Resume Writer

11/5/12

But the Resume Writer Guaranteed I'd Find a Job!

We've all seen the ads. They're a variation on this: "We guarantee you'll get a job or we'll refund your money." Usually they're placed by some ridiculously cheap ($75 or so) resume service run by "professional" resume writers. They may even guarantee you'll be employed within a time limit, or include quotes from former customers proclaiming their praises.

Dear reader, if you see an ad like this, or if a resume writer anywhere promises you'll get a job as a result of the resume s/he writes for you, you should RUN, not walk, away from that person.

FACT: A resume is a marketing tool, designed to present you in the best possible light to a prospective employer. A successful resume is one that entices a hiring manager or HR person to decide to bring you in for an interview.

FACT: After the interview, you have to do the work. Not that there aren't plenty of legitimate career and interview coaches out there who can help you with the interview. Some resume writers provide this service, either as part of a package you'll pay for, or as a value-added service.

But the fact remains, once you've earned the interview, the resume has done its job. And an honest resume writer will lay all this out for you right up front.

Another fact: Many resume books will tell you what I've just said. Leading the pack is Resume Magic by Susan Britton Whitcomb, followed closely by any of the many books by Wendy Enelow and Louise Kursmark, who write separately and together. You can find these authors at any bookstore and at many libraries.

OK then, you ask, if a resume won't guarantee me a job, why should I bother writing one? Or paying someone to write one for me? The answer to that is a simple one: If you don't write and present a resume, you won't even get an interview, much less a job, no matter what industry you're in. And if you don't present a correctly written resume, rich in keywords and keyword phrases, with action verbs and accomplishments to present you as a doer, not simply a clock-puncher, you also won't get an interview.

There's the reality: Unless you're a savant, you'll need the help of a professionally certified, honest resume writer, one who won't make unrealistic promises, who does excellent work, and who can show you samples of his/her work. The best place to find such a person is at the National Resume Writers Association website ( www.thenrwa.com ). NRWA resume writers are the cream of the crop.

And you won't find any $75 "guaranteed employment" writers among them.

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/.

Finding a Trustworthy Online Resume Writer

By and large the resume writing industry thrives on the ability people have to do business with one another online. There are quite a few companies that offer resume writing services over the internet and more than enough people who need to have a resume written! We are all very busy people so it should come as no surprise that there are many job seekers eager to save themselves some time and money by hiring an online resume writer.

Despite the relative security of doing business online, there are still a few things that give many people pause before making a purchase on the internet:

• Worry that a false company will take their money and disappear

• Worry over the potential for fake transactions

• Worry over doing businesses with an illegitimate company

• Worry over giving out their personal information to someone they do not know

• Worry over the quality of results they will receive after they pay

In time people have come to trust the online shopping experience to a certain degree and with it the resume writing companies doing business online. This trust has built the following assurances between companies and buyers:

• There is a real person behind every online resume writing service, and if this person will not be writing your resume, you have the right to know who is. This writer will have the knowledge and experience necessary to create an effective resume and be open to any input from you throughout the writing process.

• It is possible to obtain a written agreement stating the company's policies regarding the transaction. It will cover the overall arrangements, notices, confidentiality agreements, and any other factors related to your project.

• Contact information will be provided and will be verifiable by an independent third party such as a local agency or other authority.

• A company can be expected to adhere to the privacy policy they agree on with their clients. If they go back on such an agreement it can have legal ramifications for their business and this is understood.

• Buyers trust that a company will provide high-quality services in exchange for their fees. If the quality of the work is not what the buyer expected they should be able to request a revision; upstanding companies usually offer revisions free of charge or some other compensation depending on the situation.

If anyone is still unconvinced about the way an online resume writer really works, it is very simple to explain. Online resume writing services are companies just like any other, and so are their employees. They come to work, perform their tasks, and receive a paycheck for doing so. They are knowledgeable in their field and know how to craft excellent resumes and deal with customer input and requests. They know how to follow procedures and demonstrate professional conduct at every turn.

Though it might seem a little confusing, today's technology is nothing to be afraid of! It is simply a matter of doing your homework and finding the right company to place your trust in when hiring an online resume writer to craft a resume for you.

Jason Kay is a professional resume writer and contributor to career magazines and websites such as JobGoRound.com.

How to Spot the Real Expert Resume Writer

With the big buzz going on about different online writing services, job seekers nowadays get lost inside the big cyber jam of expert resume writers. But beware because while some may be true-blue professionals, others were just money-making bogus who are not really concerned whether you will land the interview or not.

If you are into making the most out of what you paid for, the best way to get a winning application paper will be to spy on the industry. Get to know how to spot fakes and how to have a keen eye on the quality of their works by just navigating through their websites. Whether you need to identify if you trust the right company with your job application or just plain curious, here we came up with the following signs that your writing service provider is really genuine:

1. They've got certification

What could be a better solid proof than certification from well-known organizations? There are actually associations who are dedicated to certifying who are expert resume writers, so if you want to make sure that you have chosen the right company or person, look for their seals. Some of these stamps that you will commonly see on the web pages of real expert writers are:

· Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches

· Career Directors International Professional Association

· National Resume Writers' Association

2. They show sample works

To ensure that you will like the product they will hand you, click through their portfolio. This is always a rule to all clients who want to know more about the quality of the services offered them. If your company is proudly posting consistently good works on their sites, chances are, you'll also receive the same quality output from them.

3. Product Reviews mention them

Always look for reliable product reviews. Does the name of the company resound in more than two critiquing sites? If yes, their services might be good indeed. Take note of the comments about them so you'll know what to expect. If you find the positive comments largely outweighing the negatives, it is safe to invest your time and money with them. The best on the industries are often featured on trusted sites, the fakes don't.

4. Customers are happy with them

Have you read feedbacks from their clients? If so, what are the common things they mention about their services? Take note of these qualities, and of course, make sure that the customer reviews you read aren't scripted. Many internet phonies are just filling their feedbacks section with positive comments that sounds like obvious paid promotions.

While many tricksters are trying to get the better of expert resume writers, they cannot get wise clients who know how to discern authentic from not. That's how some job seekers only get the best and real professional services from the foggy online market. That's why they are always able to juice out interview-worthy application from the amount they pay.

Be a wise customer yourself, and very soon, you will be sitting to do the work you want in the company of your choice.

Nelson Mullins is a former corporate hiring and recruitment expert who regularly writes articles on resumes, resume writing, personality development, and career in general. He is a father of three who also enjoys photography and biking. Nelson believes that while the employment world continues to be a rat race for applicants, it is important to always be equipped with new ideas on sustaining career growth and opportunities.

10/1/12

How to Choose a Resume Writer

There is no question that there are both good and bad résumé writers operating out there. You need to thoroughly weigh your options and investigate aspects of each potential writer's business before making a suitable choice. This person works for you with your money. Some things you need to explore are listed below including the writer's website, portfolio, credentials, and testimonials.
The writer you choose should have some type of certification or other credential in the field and the experience to serve a wide array of professionals in various industries. You can verify the writer's credentials through the certification organization's website.
The writer should have full contact information available on their website. Do not use anyone who gives only an email address. Should you need to file a complaint or take other recourse action, you need more than just an email address.
Testimonials or recommendations regarding the writer's work should be complimentary about both the writer's skills and customer service. These may be viewable on the writer's website, LinkedIn.com profile, or both.
Read any articles the writer has written about the job search industry to determine whether this person appears to have an adequate command of grammar, effective word choice, and industry knowledge. You may also be able gauge the writer's personality a bit. This person should have a genuine interest in assisting the public, not just making money.
Be informed the writer's policies about payment terms, confidentiality, and any revisions you request. These policies should be readily available to customers on the writer's website.
Contact the writer to determine fees, ask questions, and communicate your expectations. Your writer should be willing to work with you until your vision for your end result is satisfied. Résumé development is a collaborative effort between you, who know your experience and skills, and the writer, who has the expertise to present your information in the most effective form for employers.

Krista Mitchell is a Certified Professional Resume Writer crafting resumes designed to showcase your value with impact and is a Career Development Facilitator and leading job search industry expert. Her website also features articles to aid you in your job search. Free comprehensive resume reviews as well as full resume and cover letter writing services offered. http://www.composureresumes.com/ ~Pages for the next chapter in your career... ~

8/7/12

How to Choose a Resume Writer

7/5/12

4 Ways to Edit Your Resume Like a Professional Resume Writer

Professional resume writers take on the mindset of the employer and recruiter when crafting and editing resumes. To edit your resume like a professional, you have to develop a fresh mindset. If that means taking a break from your resume for a day or two before going back to it, that's what you will have to do.

Candidates often spend so much time on their resume that they can no longer give it an objective review. Many candidates are also challenged with writing their own resume because they are so involved in their own experiences. They are unable to offer a macro view of their experience and achievements - and rather than focusing on information that is important to a potential employer, they are stuck focusing on mundane daily tasks of the job that are less impactful on a resume.

To tackle your resume like a professional resume writer, have an open mind and think like the employer or recruiter you are applying to. Here are some general rules to follow:

Show what you do well.
Identify the top 5 skill sets that an employer wants in the perfect candidate. Then focus your resume on how you've achieved great things leveraging these skills. For instance, if you are applying for a sales position, your focus should be on quota achievement, account penetration, prospecting and closing techniques. Do not sway from focusing on the core skills an employer wants.
Remove what's irrelevant to the job you are applying for.
In most instances, a hiring manager makes a decision of whether you are an appropriate candidate for a call back after reviewing your resume for only a few seconds. Rarely is every line on your resume read in its entirety. The more information on your resume that is relevant, the quicker the hiring manager will come to the conclusion that you are a candidate for call back. However, if your resume includes information that offers some relevance and some things that aren't, you just increase your chance of being dismissed. So, in the end, the less an employer finds irrelevant on your resume, the more impactful it is. You are better off leaving information that doesn't offer much to an employer than including it.
Don't be afraid to market yourself.
For a resume to have impact, you have to market yourself. Every aspect of what you put on your resume should sell. Take all of your experiences, skills, and capabilities, and position it in a manner to sell. The information on a resume should present itself in a manner that says, "This is what I have achieved before, and this is what I can do for you." Many resumes do not sell simply because they are poorly focused For instance, just because your job was to bag groceries does not mean that is the information you put on your resume. You can make it more marketable by indicating how your customer relation skills helped maintain customer satisfaction, resulting in returning customers. Your statement is not a lie. It is simply repositioning information in a way that shows more relevance for the job.
Look out for common mistakes.
Minor mistakes such as misspelling, punctuation, grammar, and alignment are avoidable. However, many resumes that are not carefully proofread contain such mistakes that are cause for dismissal by the employer. Of all reasons for a resume to be dismissed, don't let these easy fixes be one of them. Ask a friend or family member to give it a review. You need another pair of eyes or at the very least, a fresh pair of eyes. Remove yourself from your resume for some time before giving it a good review. When you stare too long at a resume, you lose sight of important matters.

Reviewing and editing your resume like a professional resume writer can make a significant impact. It is often the difference between actually securing interview opportunities for jobs of the quality and spending valuable time continuously searching and applying for new opportunities to only receive no response in return.

If you are not seeking the help of a professional resume writer, at the very minimum, you should be tackling your resume by following the points above. If you are not sure about your resume, we offer a Free Resume Evaluation.

Don Goodman, President of About Jobs ( http://www.gotthejob.com/ ) is a nationally recognized Career Coach and Resume Writer. A graduate of the Wharton School of Business and Stanford University's Executive Program, Don has helped thousands of people secure their next job. Read his blog at www.GotTheJob.com/blog/ or contact him at 800-909-0109 or by e-mail at dgoodman@GotTheJob.com.

7/3/12

Tips On Becoming A Professional Resume Writer

Resumes are very important documents that are crucial to helping people land a job. A resume that is not well-written can cause a person to lose a potential dream job. Resumes can be difficult to write; this is why so many people are realizing the importance of hiring a professional to craft their resume. If you are seeking a career in writing, it can be very beneficial to become a professional resume writer. The path to becoming one involves writing ability, certifications, and experience.

Writing

The first requirement to becoming a resume writer is to have the ability to write well. A good resume depends upon a professional writing ability and good grammar. In order to hone the necessary writing skills, there are many writing courses that can be taken to improve overall grammar, spelling, and writing ability.

It is also important to have a solid ability to use computers and word processing applications. A resume that is professionally formatted and designed is necessary in this technological age to look professional, so one should be able to use any applications necessary to format and write a resume.

Becoming Certified

Becoming a certified resume writer can help immensely in establishing oneself as a professional. Gaining these certifications will also give a person the knowledge they need to write the best resume possible. There are several certifications that can be acquired; some of the most important include the CPRW and the NCRW.

Certified Professional Resume Writer

In order to gain the title of CPRW, a difficult test must be passed. This examination tests writers on their grammar and spelling abilities. It also tests industry knowledge and various subjects related to resume writing.

People taking this test must create a cover letter and resume from hypothetical information. The test and resume that was written are graded by a strict panel who will ultimately decide if certification should be given.

Nationally Certified Resume Writer

To gain the NCRW title, the first step is to send in a resume sample to be judged by the organization. If they think the resume is written well enough, they will allow the certification test to be attempted.

This is a very technical and difficult certification to obtain; the graders look at the smallest details of resume writing from the composition of the cover letter to the smallest grammar specifics.

This certification must be renewed every three years, but it is a very impressive one to have and can really open up opportunities for resume writers. Clients will have confidence and trust in a person who is certified.

Finding Work

It's important to get as much experience writing resumes as possible in order to become a certified professional. Some certifications require a certain amount of experience. There are many people looking for a professional to write a good resume for them, so when you are starting out consider writing resumes for free for friends and family. This will gain you needed experience and allow you to hone your skills.

Being a freelance resume writer can also have its advantages; it can be easier to do some freelance work for established resume writing firms rather than selling work to clients when you are first starting out.

Regardless of how a person begins his career as a resume writing professional, there are core requirements to help him succeed. Solid writing and proofreading skills, proper certification, and keeping up to date all can make being a resume writer easier and more rewarding.

Theresa Foster has a professional interest in the art of resume writing and how a professional resume writer can improve job search results, although she doesn't claim to be an expert. To get expert resume help, she recommends you contact a resume service. You can find one of the most respected and recommended resume firms online at http://www.distinctiveweb.com/

The Telltale Signs Of An Expert Resume Writer

When it comes to choosing an expert resume writer, it isn't always easy to know how to make a wise decision with all the choices available. However, there are several telltale signs that can help you judge resume writing services by their cover.

If you are looking for resume services online, the first thing to look at is the firm's website. Does the business have a professionally designed, user-friendly site with well-written, helpful information? Remember your cover letter and resume has to catch an employer's eye in just a few seconds, so their website should give you a positive first impression. After all, you are considering hiring the service to craft a compelling and eye-catching marketing document, not just a rehash of your job experience. If a business has a poorly designed website, how can you have confidence that this is a service that understands marketing and creating a good first impression?

Check the main page and About Us page for information on the service's experience, credentials, certifications, professional affiliations and publication history. Most important of all, check to see if there are any sample resumes available, either on the website or available upon request. If the website is short on details about their experience and qualifications or does not give samples, be very wary. Most skilled professionals are more than happy to give you details about their experience, qualifications and samples of their work. If any of this is missing, move on to investigating another service.

Pay attention to the writing style on the website. Are there well-written, helpful articles on the subjects of resumes, career choice and job search skills? Or is the site mostly a big sales pitch with boastful claims about how great the service is? A professional resume service website should not only effectively market their services but also provide useful information to potential customers

Certifications, memberships to professional associations or groups, and publication history are all indications of professionals dedicated to their craft. Professional organizations often give continuing education and resources to keep resume writers up-to-date on the latest trends in cover letter and resume writing, employment trends and job search strategies. Certification does not automatically make resume writers experts. Some will not see the need to prove their skills or pay for a certificate. However, certifications and professional memberships are often a good sign that the professional is serious about his or her work and dedicated to keeping up with the latest trends.

In addition to writing skills, experience and professional expertise, you want to make sure you will receive individualized attention and that you feel comfortable working with the writer. Crafting a well-written, compelling resume should never be a rush job. The writer needs to spend quality time with you to understand your history and strengths so that he or she can create a stellar resume for you that will catch the eye of prospective employers and convince them to call you in for an interview. Make sure you feel comfortable that the writer has your best interests at heart and is someone you can build good rapport and work with.

Finding a good expert resume writer may take some time, but it is well worth conducting a thorough investigation. Having a well-crafted, professionally designed and compelling resume is a critical investment in your future.

Theresa Foster has a professional interest in the art of resume writing and how an expert resume writer can improve job search results, although she doesn't claim to be an expert. To get professional resume help, she recommends you contact a resume service. You can find one of the most respected and recommended resume firms online at http://www.distinctiveweb.com/

6/7/12

An Intro To Selecting A Professional Resume Writer

With the difficult economy spawning vigorous competition for every job vacancy, job seekers can use every edge they can get to find a better job or return to work. The resumes put forward by candidates are the very first things hiring managers see from them, so it's positively essential for job candidates to use their resumes to create the very best first impressions achievable. Negligible mistakes in grammar or word selection can quickly diminish job candidates' odds of landing jobs, so using a professional resume writer is a fantastic idea for people who spend time applying for positions. The fact remains, however, that not all writers are created equal. Below is a guide to the rationales for choosing a resume writer as well as how to identify the best in the field.

Is Working With A Professional Truly Worth The Cost?

Initially, some people are skeptical about paying others to create their resumes, but employing a professional for this can be discerned as a vital investment. Mailing a bad resume can quickly result in being denied interviews, effectively shutting the doors of opportunity again and again. After hiring a professional to write one's resume, the polished result can be used repeatedly during the job hunt. Ultimately, a professional resume can save the applicant valuable time and money that might have been wasted forwarding an unexceptional resume to critically-minded hiring managers.

Pinpointing Great Resume Writers

As skilled professionals, resume writers combine sharp critical thinking skills, compelling creative writing qualifications and keen knowledge of current trends in employment and resumes. The best writers complete each job applying their own abilities and experience instead of any template or cookie-cutter process.

During your search for a professional writer, review the portfolios of any practitioners you think about hiring. Be sure that you're fully pleased with the quality of their work. There are all kinds of resume writers, so take your time and shop around to find one whose style matches what you would like to project to hiring managers in your career field. You may even ferret out a writer who concentrates in the types of jobs you're interested in.

Analyzing Writers' Qualifications

The most desirable writers do not always have certifications in their field, but hiring a professional resume writer who is certified will certainly enhance your odds of producing the positive results you're looking for. Certified professionals have had their work approved by their peers and are more likely to provide you with a superb resume. Selecting a professional resume writer with a college degree can additionally guarantee that you'll be pleased with the quality of his or her work.

Be Prepared to Pay for Excellent Writing

The best-qualified professional writers may charge more than others, but there is often great reason for this. Sharp skills usually command more pay in competitive fields like this one. If you have a hunch that a cheap writer's rates may be too good to be true, you're probably correct. An outstanding resume could be your most beneficial tool for finding the ideal job, so don't be unwilling to spend more money on a true professional who you know will supply you with quality work.

5/5/12

4 Ways to Edit Your Resume Like a Professional Resume Writer

To tackle your resume like a professional resume writer, have an open mind and think like the employer or recruiter you are applying to. Here are some general rules to follow:

3/30/12

Do You Need a Professional Resume Writer for High-Paying Jobs?

It is no secret that finding meaningful and well-paying employment is more challenging now than ever before. This is where a professional resume can make a huge difference in whether a person gets the job he wants or does not. Professional resumes show potential employers that you care enough to take that extra step. For the best possible results, consider hiring a resume writer who knows how to format these important documents properly and knows what information an employer wants to see.

An example of how you can get a professional resume at an affordable price is found at Resumes That Work. While there are hundreds of online resume writing services available, it is imperative that consumers work with companies that are experienced and knowledge about cover letters, resumes, and other pertinent information. When it comes to selection criteria, employers want to see high-quality resumes. A poorly crafted resume can actually do more harm than good. This is just one of the reasons job seekers need to work with firms who know about addressing selection criteria and know how to present that information properly.

If you already have a resume, take a look at it and ask yourself these questions:

Are your resumes or cover letters long-winded?

Have your current resumes and cover letters actually resulted in getting interviews?

Are your resumes and cover letters concise and organized?

Do your documents appear like professional resumes or do they look amateurish?

Effective resume writing is not only a skill set, but it is also something of a craft. Not everyone can produce cover letters and resumes that are concise and yet powerful enough to get the applicant into the interview phase. This is when professional resume services should be called in for assistance. In general, a job candidate has one chance, and only one chance, to make a great impression, and that impression is often in the form of his or her resume and cover letter. With the stakes being so high, it is foolish to take chances with inferior resumes.

When searching for Professional Resume services, look for companies that can offer you access to professional level resume writers who have experience in this specialized field of writing. Look for firms that offer a full line of services such as cover letters, interview tips, and firms that understand the importance of addressing selection criteria for particular openings. Remember, the main goal of a well-crafted resume is to get to the interview phase. A resume, by itself, will rarely result in being offered the job straight-off. An experienced Resume Writer knows this secret and knows how to present the candidate in the best possible light with the goal of getting that job seeker into the interview.

If you, or someone you know, is actively seeking employment, consider working with an experienced resume writing service such as the one mentioned above. Get the best possible results and get them at an affordable price. Remember, your resume represents you in written form. Make the best impression possible!

Visit this site to learn more on how a Professional Resume can bring about the best possible results. Working with an experienced Resume Writer can make all the difference when seeking new employment.

3/5/12

Trusting an Online Resume Writer

The operation and transactions of the resume writing industry largely depend on the World Wide Web. In fact, there a lot of companies of this type that exist online. This is because there are people who can't easily make their own resumes and just look for companies that provide them instead. But the industry did not instantly create an impact on the Internet users. In its early years of operations, people are hesitant to make transactions with an online resume writer or provider because of the following reasons:

* Fear of fake companies that will just take their money away

* Fear of bogus transactions

* Fear of dealing with a fictitious company

* Fear of sharing their personal information

* Fear of getting the unexpected results/poorly written outputs

Over time, however, people have learned to trust online writing companies without any hesitation or fear. This trust was built on the following:

* There is, indeed, a real online resume writer who works for a company. This employee is knowledgeable and equipped enough in doing his primary task of writing an effective job application tool. A real writer is someone whom clients can talk to when they have instructions or ideas to better help in composing the draft.

* There is a written agreement between the company and the client on the terms and conditions of the transaction. It governs the arrangements, policies, notices, confidentiality clauses, and all related factors about the service.

* Clients are highly advised to be cautious of the physical address or other contact information of the company that is usually indicated on its web site. Verify the information with local agencies and authorities to know their legitimacy to operate.

* The company and the client agreed on a privacy policy. Violation of any of its articles is punishable by law.

* People should not think of getting an output different from what they are expecting to receive. If this happens, good companies immediately provide solutions. They usually offer revision of the work for free. Some offer discounted price for the product while others give clients freebies or free extra services like critique, cover letter, and other attachments.

For those who are still unconvinced and very eager to know how an online resume writer really works, here is the answer: online writers are employees who work at the office and perform their tasks. They are knowledgeable in writing and performing their duties. They follow the right process of dealing with customers. Above all, they demonstrate professionalism as their way of giving value to their clients' trust.

In today's age of high technology, people have nothing to worry about. It's just a matter of trust. In having a transaction with online writing service provider, it is important that clients are cooperative and understanding. This is to help them secure a job in the tough corporate world.

Melinda Edwards works as a career consultant and has been invited in many forums and events on human resource management. She is also a time management expert who effectively performs her roles both as a career woman and a mother.

11/1/11

Is It Ethical to Claim You Have Strong Writing Skills If You Hire a Resume Writer?

How often have you seen "Strong verbal and written skills required" in a job description? It seems to appear on almost every job listing. If you are hiring a resume writer, is it ethical to say you have this important job requirement?

Different Set of Rules for Resumes

To answer that question we need to first understand that there is a difference between resume writing skills and other writing skills. There is a completely different set of rules that apply to resumes than to almost any other type of writing.

You can be a strong writer, with the power to move people with what you put down on paper, without having the skills to write a resume that presents yourself in the right light. You may ask how this can be. It has much to do with knowing the rules.

1) Avoid the use of full sentences on a resume.

Brevity is the watchword for resumes. This is one place where you ignore that rule about fragments. Instead of saying, "I am a motivated, results-driven sales professional," you'll say, "Motivated, results-driven sales professional." Generally, you always drop the subject. Often, you'll drop the verb as well.

2) Never use personal pronouns in a resume.

The above example also highlights another important rule. Never say "I" in your resume. It's an obstacle. Let the person reading your resume think in the third person. He or she will mentally think, "He is a motivated, results-driven sales professional." "She is a motivated, results-driven sales professional."

3) Avoid the use of articles such as "a" and "the" for the same reason you avoid full sentences.

This is a rule I occasionally break, yet I only do so in the objective section if I do. It requires skill to pull this off sometimes without leaving behind a stilted feel to the information.

4) Use bulleted lists to present your information.

Bulleted lists organize your information for quick scanning. When there are 500 resumes competing with yours, make it easy to spot the fact that you are a good candidate for the position.

5) Always use parallel form in any lists you create.

This is a skill that even experienced writers can struggle with. If you always start descriptions of your skills with a verb, then every bullet for that type of information throughout your resume should start with a verb. If you start with an adverb on one line, always use adverbs to start each line.

Parallel Verb Form 1 - For past positions

Developed marketing strategies to break through sales barriers within East Coast sales regionTrained sales personnel to raise sales performance of all team members within each sub-districtCoordinated marketing events to improve lead follow up quality

Parallel Verb Form 2 - For present position

Developing marketing strategies to break through sales barriers within East Coast sales regionTraining sales personnel to raise sales performance of all team members within each sub-districtCoordinating marketing events to improve lead follow up quality

Parallel Adverb Form 1 - For past positions

Actively sought cutting edge marketing strategies to break through sales barriers within East Coast sales regionCreatively found new ways to raise sales performance of all team members within their sub-districtsExpressly focused on better coordination of marketing events to improve lead follow up quality

Parallel Adverb Form 2 - For present positions

Actively seeking cutting edge marketing strategies to break through sales barriers within East Coast sales regionCreatively finding new ways to raise sales performance of all team members within their sub-districtsExpressly focusing on better coordination of marketing events to improve lead follow up quality

The adverb from is more challenging to use. At the same time, it can be very effective at describing the way you approach your job. Adverbs add punch to the verb. They can help you project a picture of how you work and how you would benefit a future employer.

Parallel Transitive Verb Form 1 - For past positions

Transitive verbs, those verbs that show action and must be followed by something that you acted upon, can also be effective.

Demonstrated proposed marketing strategies would break through sales barriers within East Coast sales regionMotivated sales team to reach higher sales goals than ever before considered within each sub-districtProved that incorporating social networking into marketing events improved lead quality

Parallel Transitive Verb Form 2 - For present positions

Transitive verbs, those verbs that show action and must be followed by something that you acted upon, can also be effective.

Demonstrating effectiveness of new marketing strategies by breaking through previous sales barriers within East Coast sales regionMotivating sales team to reach higher sales goals than ever before considered within each sub-districtProving that incorporating social networking into marketing events improved lead quality

6) Avoid bullet lists that sound like a job listing.

As you create those bullet lists sharing your skills, inject a sense of how you have performed those primary duties of the jobs you've had in the past. Think beyond what you did, to how you accomplished what you did.

7) Focus on what you have to give.

Sure, there are things you need from the employer. There's time enough for discussing that later. Start from the position of "Here's what I can do for you." Let's face it, while you don't want an employer who is only what's in it for me focused, you can't know who you are dealing with unless you get your foot in the door for an interview. Focus your resume on what you have to offer.

In the end, a resume is more than just the ability to write. It also involves a level a design sensitivity. That line "strong written and verbal skills has a different definition depending on the employer.

If the job isn't asking you to prove your design skills as well as writing skills, you may be able to ethically claim you have the writing skills the company is looking for, even if you hire someone to help you with your resume. We're not all gifted in the same ways.

Denise Rutledge has provided resume and cover letter writing services for over three years through WritingasaGhost. Her clients have said things like: "I've always gotten an interview when Denise has written my cover letter." R.F. "You are the best money I have ever spent." K.S. She shares this information to empower others to write their own resumes and cover letters for successful job search results.

9/3/11

4 Ways to Develop Your Resume Like an Executive Resume Writer

Writing an executive resume is challenging; tough decisions must be made along the way, including which career information should and should not be included. If you're perplexed by how to push forward, you could always adopt the mentality of an executive resume writer. Here are some tips for taking this approach:

Quantity Speaks Volumes

An executive resume writer works diligently to position you and your resume in a way that is consistent with your career objective-and in a manner that will secure interviews. Securing interviews is one reason why they work so hard to quantify your achievements.

How can you do the same? By sharing how many projects you initiated and/or managed in how many days, while leading how many team members, and bringing in how much revenue, etc. These are general examples, but how you quantify the experience in your resume should be related to two points: First, the requirements of the position/needs of the company-and second, it should be consistent with your career goals. For example, if your goal is to stop managing people and start managing processes, then don't focus on numbers related to your management of employees; instead, quantify your experience on the processes side.

Ask the Right Questions

Executive resume writers are great data miners. They can go past the surface of your career to really draw attention to achievements that you may not initially remember, didn't think were important, or may be vital to the position and meeting the needs of the organization. In order to do this, they ask you a lot of questions.

For instance, have you ever asked yourself what contributions you have made to the companies for which you've worked? Are they better companies now because you have worked for them? What initiatives did you bring to the table that made you stand out from other executives who had previously worked in your position?

These questions are often difficult to answer but are necessary in setting you apart from your competition. Your contributions are probably greater than you think, but it's up to you to identify the difference you've made and then express this difference in your resume.

Walk Away for a While

Everyone needs some perspective and some time to clear their head. Take time to get a little distance from the resume. When you come back with a fresh mind, you have the opportunity to read and edit your resume from a third-party perspective-or you may have remembered critically important details that you'd initially left out.

Call in Another Team Player

Even some of the best executive resume writers in the industry will have another set of eyes review the resume for errors or inconsistencies. Some writers even rely on very meticulous and detail-oriented copy editors to review each client's project before the client ever sees the document, thereby ensuring its flawlessness. At the very least, you should have one person review the resume for you prior to sending it out, but a second or third person can never hurt.

Executive resume writers are great at what they do because they know about current trends, have written thousands more resumes in their lifetime than you ever have, and they have an objective, third-party view of you and your qualifications. Ever heard the phrase, "It's easier to write about someone else than it is yourself"? A phenomenal executive resume writer will invest time and effort getting to know your career history and your current career goals. They'll strategize with you on how to overcome any obstacles your resume may face and will collaborate with you to develop a strategy to effectively tackle these challenges and garner you interviews. You are a hard-working executive with a proven track record, so be sure to work as hard on your resume as you would expect a professional writer to. Or, if you can use some third-party objectivity, consider hiring an executive resume writer to develop your brand, strategize your action plan, and craft an interview-winning resume.

For additional tips and advice on resumes and cover letters, follow @GreatResume or visit our blog.

Global resume authority Jessica M Holbrook of http://www.greatresumesfast.com/ is a former HR Manager who partners with professional- and executive-level candidates to create authentic, branded resumes and cover letters. An international resume columnist and resume expert for JobTalkAmerica radio, her work opens doors to lucrative positions at Fortune 500 companies.

9/2/11

Guidelines for Hiring a Professional Resume Writer

It's often difficult for job seekers to consider spending money when they are jobless, their career prospects seem poor, and their emergency funds are shrinking. Rivalry is stiff in the job market these days and it is likely that there are far more professionals applying for positions than there are vacancies. But from a different angle, remember that the more time you are unemployed the more it costs you. If you would usually bring home $50,000 a year you are losing almost $1000 every week that you are jobless. There are professionals available to help you secure a new job, but they necessitate a monetary investment. If spending money is likely to pay returns greater than the amount paid, rather than an expenditure, shouldn't it be taken into account as an investment? When you compute exactly how much it is costing you to be unemployed, would an investment in expert assistance be a smart one? This is a question that increasing numbers of job hunters are asking themselves, especially when it comes to preparing their resume. Many people are surprised to learn that there is such a thing as professional resume writers. So if you are wondering about that, you aren't alone. But, just as there are marketing professionals who specialize in promoting products, there are marketing experts who focus on promoting people within the job market.

The highest quality professional resume writers are serious about their profession, have merited certifications and participate in regular training to make sure that that they are on the leading edge of their profession. While, at first glance, hiring an expert to help you write your resume might seem an unnecessary expense, the truth is that it is usually far more accurate to think of it as an investment with a high potential for excellent returns. Having your resume professionally written could pay you back many times over, as it helps you to increase your competitiveness, get your resume attention, win those interviews, and secure a job faster, many times at a higher salary than you might have anticipated.

Here are some guidelines as you contemplate working with a professional:

* Look for references.

Don't expect to find references from past customers complete with their individual details and phone numbers. Professional ethics and confidentiality agreements prevent resume writers from divulging any personal information about their customers and you should be cautious of those who do. However, the best writers will have letters of reference that have been altered to not disclose the identity of their clients. You can also try to find references on LinkedIn, in which case the cutomer's providing the reference may have voluntarily given up their identity.

* Review some examples of their resumes.

Look for resume writing companies or private practitioners that create a one-of-a-kind resume for each and every client. By looking at past examples you can get a sense of their style and see just how much attention to detail goes in to the finished product. You can also search for published examples on the web and many of the most talented resume writers have examples of their work published in books about resume writing.

* Check out credentials.

There are several credible, well-established professional associations for resume writers. Membership shows that the writer takes their profession seriously and is dedicated to excellence. These organizations offer education and credentialing programs. The most stringent exams have preconditions, assess various areas of skill, use a blind grading system, and have CEU requirements.

* Take time to review and understand the contract.

Many professional resume writers use written project contracts that explain policies and procedures as well as outlining the bounds of the project. This will help you to grasp the depth and breadth of services provided and what you can do if you aren't happy. You will also find out how change requests are processed, the turnaround time, and what the payment process is.

* Finally, don't disregard that your professionally written resume is an investment and you should remember this when you consider the payment terms.

Be cautious of resume writers who have little or no experience. Look for membership in professional associations, connections, established web presence, proof of training, and solid examples.

While fees vary, with more experienced and accomplished resume writers able to ask for more for their expertise and quality, generally the range should be somewhere between $300 and $1200, frequently depending on the complexity of your project. Keep in mind, a bargain is not a bargain if the quality of the delivered document is not what you hoped for and your job search suffers as a result. Your career is at stake here and you shouldn't cut corners! Done properly, your professionally written resume is an investment that can produce extraordinary results.

Michelle Dumas runs of one of the longest-standing and most respected professional resume writing firms on the internet. Since 1996, Michelle has empowered thousands of professionals with resumes that get results and win jobs fast. Get insider resume writing tips that you won't find anywhere else at her website. Go now to http://www.distinctiveweb.com/

8/30/11

Ten Tips From a Resume Writer

To catch the attention of a potential employer, you will need to have a top-flight resume, because without one, you risk becoming just another applicant whose resume gets thrown in a pile. When writing a high-quality resume, focus on these few tips listed below:

1. Understand the needs of the employer.

When you are writing your resume, ensure that you target it, and do not send out the same resume for different types of jobs. Keep in mind that an employer will not sit and read a resume that does not have the position that you are applying for specifically stated in it. Focus on the needs of that particular position before you send out a resume for it. Ensure that your experiences and your level of education match the position for which you are applying and nothing else.

2. Have your experiences and skills prioritized in your resume.

Keep in mind that an employer will only look at your resume for about 30 seconds and nothing more; therefore, you will need to make sure that your expertise and your key qualifications stand out and are easily seen. To ensure that you note the most important things, you will need to first make a list of all your training and your experience. After you have laid out all your best qualities, look for the keywords in the job description and then lay out your skills accordingly, from the most important to the least.

3. Write a summary of your qualifications.

As a resume writer, you will need to produce a very powerful summary that will propel the recruiter to continue reading. Your summary should include the most important qualities from the list that you made above. This summary should clearly state your accomplishments that go along with the job requirements. When you are doing your summary, you should be able to convince the recruiters of your talent and encourage them to read the rest of your resume.

4. Pay attention to style and language.

In your resume, ensure that you use your experience and your skills to impress the employers, instead of complicated language that they have to think about. With the use of simple language, the recruiters will be able to pick out your talent easily. Use straightforward sentences to tell your potential employer your best features that will make you an asset to the business. You may also use buzzwords related to the industry.

5. Make your achievements shine.

When writing your resume, imagine that you are the employer and think of the candidate that you would choose for the position. The candidate you would choose would be the one who has the most accomplishments, the one person who can be the greatest asset to your company, right? So when writing your resume, ensure that you speak of your achievements, instead of just discussing the job description itself. If, for example, you were applying for a coveted position at a Los Angeles magazine as a photographer, you would add to your resume all that you have accomplished in the area, including awards and certificates.

6. Now state your other qualifications.

At this point in your resume, you will need to list any other qualifications that you plan to include. Although these qualifications may not be required for that particular job, they should all be related.

7. Use a simple font.

Type your resume in Times New Roman, Palatino, or another font that can be easily read.

8. Employ correct spelling and grammar.

Your resume should also be free of spelling and grammatical errors.

9. Add a title.

When you include a title in your resume, the recruiter will get a quick overview of your area of specialization and expertise. This title should be above the summary of your resume.

10. Save your resume in the correct formats.

Now that you have completed your resume, you should save it as a DOC/PDF file and also in text format. Then you are ready to go ahead and submit your resume.

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