Does Your Resume Need an Objective Statement?

A resume doesn’t need an objective statement, but it does need a customized summary. Here’s why, along with some examples:

Objectives on resumes are outdated. Summaries are not.

I recommend including a brief, 3-4 sentence summary instead of an objective on your resume. Your summary should briefly describe your title, years of experience, and top skills. It is a way for a recruiter or hiring manager to glance at your resume and gain all the information they need quickly.

According to Ladders.com, employers spend just 7 seconds scanning a resume. So, your summary is critical! Tailor your summary for each position you apply to. This ensures your resume makes it past the ATS (applicant tracking system) and through to a live person.

Here’s an example for you to review:

Business Development Manager with 10+ years of experience delivering sales strategies that generate growth and revenue, surpassing assigned targets. Expand markets throughout a given region by establishing, maintaining, and expanding key relationships that achieve objectives. Background includes account management, team leadership, marketing, and communications. Certified Sales Professional (CSP).

Is there ever a time to include an objective on a resume?

While I do not suggest including an objective on your resume, there are reasons to be a little more specific. For example, if you are transitioning from one role to another, you want to note that within your summary.

Copywriter with 5+ years of experience. Interested in transitioning into a direct-hire, full-time position. Expertise creating engaging content that furthers growth objectives. Background spans various industries, including retail, professional services, and real estate. Proficiency in digital marketing, social media strategy, and SEO.

You must be clear and concise.

Remember that a transition statement is only needed when you are transitioning. A basic summary is fine if you are only looking for a new job.

We can help you write the perfect resume.

A resume needs more than just a customized summary. You need to format your resume in a way that gets past the ATS and through to a live person.

That’s where the Job Search School comes in.

I can teach you how to write the perfect resume and LinkedIn profile, address gaps in employment, tap into the hidden job market, negotiate a higher salary, and more!

Check out my FREE workshop for some tips you can use right away.

That’s right – it’s FREE and full of insights.

I have helped thousands of professionals and would love to help you too.

Your dream job is waiting.

Virtual Interview Tips

If navigating a virtual interview puts you a bit on edge, you are not alone. I have countless clients contact me each week, wondering how the heck they are supposed to handle an interview online. In-person interviews are stressful enough but trying to “read the room,” so to speak, when there is no room to read, well – it can be challenging to say the least!

Regardless of how virtual interviews make you feel, they are here to stay and will be used as a tool to narrow down the candidacy. Companies have found that interviewing applicants in a virtual capacity is a time and money-saving tool, enabling them to interview numerous candidates from across the country in less time than they could in person. Here are some helpful tips to make your virtual interview a success.

1.) Prepare as you would for any other interview – the questions are no different.

Just as you would prepare for any other interview, it is vital to practice your responses to the traditional questions you will be asked, spend time researching this new role, and learn all you can about this potential new employer. Take notes, have questions and answers to questions on hand, and know what you want to convey about your candidacy and how.

2.) Be familiar with the program you are using, working out any technical issues.

Some of the most popular video conferencing software is Zoom, Skype, or Google Duo. Once the recruiter or hiring manager shares the platform you are using, make sure you are comfortable using it by setting up a preliminary call with a friend or family member to work through any technical issues.

3.) Find a well-lit and quiet room with a neutral background.

Find a quiet, well-lit room so that you can focus entirely on your interviewer (and so that your interviewer can focus entirely on you). If you have books or artwork behind you, make sure it is not anything offensive. If you do not want to show any part of your home, most platforms allow you to upload an image to use as a background.

4.) Dress the part.

Just because you are at home does not mean you shouldn’t dress up. Dress as you would for an in-person interview. While the interviewer should not judge you based on your appearance, first impressions are still important. Plus, when you dress up, you feel confident, putting you more at ease during the interview session.

5.) Look at the camera and interviewer.

Sometimes on a video call, it is tempting to look at yourself on the screen instead of the person you are conversing with. During an interview, while it is acceptable to look at the interviewer as they are speaking, I recommend looking directly at the camera as you answer any questions to make “eye contact” with the interviewer. Avoid looking at yourself (no matter how good-looking you are!).

Take time to prepare, technically as well, and move forward with confidence. In the words of Willie Nelson, “Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.” You applied for this job because you CAN do it. Virtual interview, in-person interview – it does not matter. Log on and shine like the star you are!

No matter where you are on your job search journey, my comprehensive training program at the Job Search School can help. Learn how to find (and get called for) positions of interest, master your interview, negotiate your salary, and much more! Join thousands of other fully satisfied clients by signing up for my FREE Workshop today!

Top 3 Reasons to Keep Up Your Job Search During the Holidays

With the holiday season approaching, many job seekers will decide to “take some time off” from their job search, choosing to resume after the new year. This is a BIG mistake.

Contrary to popular belief, whether you are unemployed and searching for a new job, or simply looking to make a career change – the holidays are one of the BEST times of the year to search for, and land, the job of your dreams. Here’s why:

1.) Employers ARE hiring.

Take a look at any job board and you will see that countless companies are hiring for all different kinds of positions – many of which they hope to fill by the coming year. Companies want to make sure to start the year off strong – fully staffed and ready to go. As such, the interview and onboarding process is usually more streamlined. Best of all, many employers will allow you to begin after January 1st so that you can enjoy your holiday season.

2.) There is less competition.

Because so many people decide to take the holidays off from their job search, fewer candidates are in the applicant pool – meaning less competition. Remember, millions of people resigned from their jobs this year, searching for something better, so competition has been fierce. This is your chance to stand out – NOW is the time to apply!

3.) More opportunities to network.

Think about all of the festivities that are ahead: the opportunity to network with friends, family, and other professionals is seemingly endless! Work on your pitch (short and sweet) to let people know what you are doing and what you hope to do. Referrals fill many roles, so getting yourself out there through networking (both online and in-person) is key.

Want to make sure you stand out?

~ Customize your resume for each position you apply to. This means changing up your skills, accomplishments, and experience to match the job description. Your resume should focus on the last 10-15 years, and be no more than 3 pages in length.

~ Optimize your LinkedIn profile, utilizing industry-specific keywords throughout your headline and summary. Target your top 2 positions of interest – but no more. Be sure to join various groups, follow numerous companies, and build as many connections as possible.

~ Plan and prep for your interview – having statements prepared that address any job gaps and speak to any transitions. Research the company thoroughly, and be ready to negotiate for what you want.

No matter the reason behind your job search, my comprehensive training program here at The Job Search School can help! Learn how to:

• Transition into a new career.
• Find positions that match your interests.
• Locate opportunities not posted online.
• Craft the perfect resume and LinkedIn profile.
• Interview like the pro you are.
• Negotiate a higher salary, and MORE!

Best of all, I offer the top three tips every job seeker should know for FREE! Having helped thousands of professionals land their dream job – my methods are tried and true.

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of a job you love.

Contact me today to learn more.

Best Work Habits to be Valued by the Boss

We all want to feel valued at work, but sometimes it can be a little bit challenging to get on your boss’s radar. If you wonder what you can do to get noticed and feel appreciated, these three simple tips can help!

1. Professionalism.

While you may think being “professional” goes without saying, you would be surprised to know how many employees fail to act that way. Bosses want employees who refrain from gossiping, own the brand and care about how they present themselves. This means that you should choose to take the “high road” throughout the workday by being constructive with your speech, communicative with your needs, and committed to achieving shared goals and objectives.

2. Accountability.

Bosses want to see employees take responsibility for the good and bad – so that they can learn from their mistakes, grow through their accomplishments, and be the best they could possibly be. So, when employees scapegoat and fail to take responsibility for their actions, it hinders their ability to do well – posing a challenge for the team. Be willing to learn, improve, and grow, and you will shine.

3. Dependability.

Bosses want to know that you are there to take on new tasks, show up when needed, and answer the call when it rings (within reason). Demonstrate that you are dedicated and dependable while being mindful of your personal time too. Trust me when I say that “healthy” bosses do not want to see you lose out on work-life balance – they just want to know that you’ll get the job done when you say you will.

H. Jackson Brown, Jr. once said, “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” As you look to develop habits to get noticed by your boss, simply “do your best.”

Here at The Job Search School, our comprehensive program provides professionals with the tools they need to find the job of their dreams and excel within it! Whether you are looking to negotiate the terms of your employment or make your way into the C-Suite, we can help get you there. Contact us today to learn more!

6 Tips to Advance Your Career

Everyone wants to get ahead with their career, but not everyone knows how. With so much information available, and a fear of getting it wrong, most feel overwhelmed. If this sounds like you, please know it isn’t as complicated as you may think. Here are six simple tips to help you advance in your career – bringing you where you want to be.

1.) Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

One of the most significant mistakes employees can make is to keep up the appearance of “knowing it all.” Guess what? Nobody does. I encourage my team here at The Job Search School to ask questions, and I’m sure your boss does too. The more you ask, the more you can learn, and the more you know, the more you can grow. Ask away!

2.) Appreciate the small jobs, and do them with precision.

You have likely heard the adage that there are “no small roles, only small actors.” The same applies to work. No matter what the assignment is, do it with all you’ve got – providing the very best finished product possible. Little actions do not go unnoticed and can help you become an expert within your field.

3.) Ask for new projects, no matter how mundane.

Show an interest in new projects, asking for a seat at the table (regardless of what task is assigned). Demonstrate an eagerness and willingness to learn, showcasing your desire to grow and be helpful. Doing so will make you an integral team member, solidifying your value with the company long-term.

4.) Seize opportunities to expand your skill-set.

If a course you can enroll in presents itself, take it. An opportunity to join an employee resource group? Take it. A networking opportunity? Take it. Any and every opportunity presented can foster your personal and professional development. Remember, you never know what information you will learn or connections you will make.

5.) Check in-house job listings regularly.

Many companies prefer to hire from within rather than externally, so keep your eye on your company’s job board. And, since you work there, you will know exactly who to speak with to promote your candidacy. If you build a good reputation, the sky is the limit

Resume Keywords

If you are looking for a new job, there is something you should know. Companies scan your resume using an ATS (applicant tracking system) to see if your resume meets their needs. The higher your resume scores, the better your chances of being called in for an interview. To get your resume on point, you need to include specific keywords to trigger a positive response from the ATS.

Review the job description thoroughly.

The job description will undoubtedly have the keywords listed throughout. This means that you should write your resume to meet the position’s needs, aligning your skills and experience to highlight them. So, if “business development strategy” is your specialty and has been conveyed within the job description, utilize “business development strategy” frequently within your summary, skills, and accomplishments.

Customize your resume for each position.

Though there may be industry-specific keywords that are the same for various, similar positions, you must customize your resume to meet the needs of each job application. This means updating your resume to align with every new role, including your title, skills, summary, and accomplishments. Remember, if your resume doesn’t match the needs of the job description, your resume will likely score lower – no matter how qualified you are.

Be honest.

Do not highlight or pull keywords that are for skills you don’t have. That wouldn’t be honest, and quite frankly, wouldn’t be in your best interest professionally. I also do not recommend copying the job description – that would not bode well when a recruiter or hiring manager reviews it. They want to see a unique resume that you craft.

Learn from the pros.

Here at The Job Search School, we cover everything – from creating the perfect resume to negotiating a higher salary. With thousands of fully-satisfied clients, my comprehensive program is customized to ensure your success. Want to learn more? Sign up for my FREE webinar for tips and strategies you can start using for your job search today. Your dream job is waiting!

How to Get Noticed With #hashtags on LinkedIn

I receive dozens of inquiries each week from job seekers who are following companies, joining groups, and contacting various individuals on LinkedIn to expand their network. They wonder what else they could be doing to increase their exposure, to which I respond post with “#hashtags”. The use of hashtags maximizes your audience and ability to connect, putting you on the radar of recruiters, hiring managers, and anyone else who is following similar topics. Here are 3 simple tips to get started:

1.) Optimize your LinkedIn profile.

It’s not wise to begin building a presence on LinkedIn before your profile is complete. Make sure your profile contains an updated, professional photo, and uses specific keywords within your headline and summary. I advise my clients to list 15 years of their work experience, sans educational dates, with a focus on relevant skills, and accomplishments. With over 2000 characters available for use, LinkedIn provides you with the opportunity to include more information than you could on your resume, so feel free to be as detailed as possible.

2.) Find #hashtags to follow.

You can find hashtags by typing them within LinkedIn’s search bar (be sure to use a #hashtag when writing them) and then selecting “follow”. This helps you remain aware of discussions surrounding those topics by displaying them on your feed. Be sure to select hashtags that are industry specific (such as #informationtechnology #saas or #accounting) as well as others of interest (#hiring or #salesdevelopment – something that matches what you are looking to do). Contributing to these conversations when they come up can put you within reach of other like-minded professionals, helping you network with those who are hiring (or know someone who is). You can manage the hashtags you follow in the community boxes located to the left of your homepage feed.

3.) Determine which #hashtags to use.

Figure out which hashtags you should start using within your own posts, so that key individuals can see them. If you are searching for a job, your hashtags should relate to what is trending and include something like #jobsearch or #opentoopportunities. You can even list your industry (#mechanicalengineering #computerprogramming) and a specific skill (#businessdevelopmentexecutive #customerrelations). Incorporate the hashtags in all your posts (the optimal number of hashtags suggested is five).

Remember, though LinkedIn can sometimes become a bit of a social platform, keep it professional. If you see a post that begins to get a bit dicey, regarding politics, religion, or topics that are questionable, avoid sharing your opinion. Limit your contributions to industry-related topics only so as not to affect your candidacy.

Whether you have just started on your job search journey or have been at it for quite some time, I can help. My comprehensive training program will show you exactly what you need to do to get more calls to interview, with tips and tricks to help you from the search and application process through to salary negotiations. To learn more, register for my free Masterclass!

Your dream job is waiting!

How to Follow Up After an Interview

If you just interviewed for a position, you may feel like you’re floating on a cloud! You’re thrilled about the prospect of a new opportunity, and after much planning and preparation, believe the interview went well. There’s only one thing left to do. Send a thank-you email or note via snail mail! Who doesn’t like getting something besides bills and junk in their mailbox?!

What is the purpose of saying thank-you?

A thank you email or note is used to thank the hiring manager for their time, draw attention to your candidacy, and politely reiterate your interest in the role. The gesture of sending one not only conveys your enthusiasm for the position but helps you stand out against the competition. It should be sent within 24 – 48 hours of your job interview.

What should be in a thank-you email/note?

Your email should have a personalized subject line and greeting, followed by a note of appreciation. It should briefly recap some of your qualifications, touch on a point of your discussion and express an interest in the next steps, without appearing forceful or aggressive. Please note, this is NOT the time to ask if you got the job or receive feedback. Doing so might cost you the position.

Here’s an example:

Hi [Interviewer Name],

Thank you for taking the time to meet with me [today]. I appreciate you answering my questions about [Company Name], and sharing your expectations for the role. I believe my background in implementing successful sales strategies across an assigned region would bring great value to your team, along with my SaaS and IT background.

If you have any further questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact me. Thanks once again!

Best Regards,
[Your Name]

My comprehensive training program here at The Job Search School can show you exactly what you need to do, with additional courses to help you master interviews (both in-person and virtually), write a customized, ATS-friendly resume, negotiate salary, and more. Sign up for my free Master Clas s today!