WHAT RECRUITERS LOOK FOR IN MARKETING MATERIALS (i.e. Résumés)
On a weekly basis I have a goal of meeting with at least two recruiters — both external (Head Hunters) and Internal (HR Recruiters). One of the questions I ask is, “What do you look for in a candidate’s marketing materials?†They are always glad to give me the information because it makes their job easier!
Here is what they tell me:
TARGET – The Résumé and Cover Letter should target the specific position for which you are applying. More specifically, point out relevant experience so they know how you fit with what they are looking for. DON’T send a resume for every position listed on the company website, only those for which you are qualified and interested! Recruiters consider this to be SPAM, and they automatically delete any correspondence from you.
MADE/SAVED/ACHIEVED – They want to know how you can help their company make $$, or save $$ or increase efficiencies (i.e. achieve their business objectives). The best way to help them see this is by showing what you have accomplished in your prior work history.
CREATIVITY – NO, that doesn’t mean your should print your resume on pink paper or send it with a dozen roses. But recruiters look at so many Résumés that they like to see a little creativity. It will make you stand out . . . in a positive way.
MISTAKES – Yes, you read that correctly! One recruiter told me that she loves to find typos, misspelled words, and mistakes in general because what she is really doing in the initial screening is ELIMINATING people. Recruiters are overwhelmed with inquiries. Mistakes give them a reason to dump your Résumé, thereby shrinking their pile.
PROFESSIONALISM – This includes not only your Résumé and Cover Letter, but also your email address (“biker_dude†and “party.girl†are NOT professional!), how you answer the phone, your phone message, and even your public web presence – i.e. your “MySpace†page.
JOB HOPPING – Again, they are trying to weed people out.
NO GAPS – This one is tricky from a job seeker’s perspective, especially if you want to change careers or industries. Recruiters love dates. Period. Without gaps. To get around this one you will need professional help. A good Career Coach will help you put together a variety of Résumés that will highlight achievements and include employment dates. A great Career Coach will teach you how to get a job without a Résumé!
One Recruiter told me that she believes that the biggest problem for most job hunters is that they don’t know how to market themselves. I think she’s right! However, with the right tools, coaching, and career marketing plan nearly every job seeker CAN find their perfect career!
