Work / Life Balance
Kent R.
I recently wrote about the need to take steps – no matter what is going on in the economy – to move closer and closer to the "right" job/career.
Read MoreBlog / Podcast
Our blog and podcast dive into the real stories and everyday strategies behind building a No Vacation Required life. We challenge outdated norms, share fresh perspectives, and explore what it means to find fulfillment right now—in a world that rarely makes it easy.
Job Search Advice
Kent R.
I was just on a conference call on which someone said "Right now, people care about getting a job, not reinventing themselves."
Read MorePost-interview Thank You Letters
Kent R.
I have recently read some debate about the value of post-interview thank you letters. Despite the arguments, I maintain that a thank you letter is a key part of the job search process. In fact – in this challenging job market – the thank you letter has taken on a new level of importance.
Read MoreSell Yourself, But Don't Cross The Line
Kent R.
A resume needs to be bold and even a bit boastful. This is not the time to shy away from selling yourself or highlighting the unique value that you represent. However, you have to do it tactfully or readers will simply move on.
Read MoreWhy It's Important to Manage Your Career
Kent R.
Q: I was discouraged by your recent post about the importance of being indispensable. I am not getting any call backs on my resume. Now I’m worried that I am not even a desirable candidate. I am finding it difficult to keep up with all of the requirements for a “modern day” job search and life, including social media: LinkedIn, Twitter etc…
Read MoreBest Time To Submit Your Resume
Kent R.
Q: When is the best time to submit a resume for an open position?
Read MoreNot Playing By The Rules
Kent R.
I have a lot of people ask me about "outside the box" ways of reaching HR and Hiring Managers. One that comes up a lot is, "Should I use Google to find the recruiter's email address and circumvent the applicant tracking system?"
I appreciate the idea, but I think it is likely to work against you (if it makes any impact at all).
If a requisition provides details for submitting your application, you need to adhere to those guidelines. Not doing so essentially says "your guidelines don't apply to me." Probably not the first impression you want to make.
More likely, your resume will not make it into the company's applicant tracking system, which means you won't be even considered.
My advice – follow the outlined protocol. Target your resume toward the specific position, speak to specific accomplishments and clearly outline the value you intend to add.
That is what will get you noticed.
Beyond Achievements
Kent R.
Q: What are some of the most common roadblocks that you find people have when writing their resumes.
Read MoreResumes for Federal Jobs
Kent R.
Q: I am searching for work and hear a lot about using a special resume for government positions. What is different about this type of resume.
Read MoreBenefit from Others' Expertise
Kent R.
I recently read a forum post asserting that every professional should be able to write his or her own resume. The writer went on to say that, because no one knows your experience better than you, you are the only one qualified to do the job. I don't know why the "you have to do it yourself" attitude persists when it comes to writing your resume. It's essentially like saying you should do your own taxes because nobody knows your finances better than you.
For people who are comfortable writing their own resume – and can produce an outstanding one – fantastic. For those whose strengths lie elsewhere, there is no reason not to hire a professional. In fact, I would say that recognizing where you can benefit from others' expertise is a far more valuable skill than being able to write your own resume.
Your resume is an incredibly valuable marketing piece and often your only chance to make a strong first impression. Don’t waste those opportunities by using an unpolished or underwhelming document.