Friday, March 09, 2007

The Match Game

Not so long ago I promised you some insight on writing a different kind of resume that was specific to the job you were applying or interviewing for. This is something that is a little out there in the eyes of the traditionalist and you may find a little too bold for you but the first time I saw it, I was very impressed with the way it was put together.

So here are the basics of what you are doing with this "outside the box" mini resume.

First, take the job description for the position for which you are applying.

Most job descriptions are written in a format that have either bullets or are very specific about duties you will perform. Now, think back to previous experience and when you have performed those duties. Now, let's play the match game. Write the duty or function they will want you to perform and then right underneath it, describe a time when you have done that exact thing.

Do this for every job duty described in the job posting and either send it along with your resume when you apply for the position or, bring it with you to the interview.

I like it when it is sent in with your resume when you are applying because it tells me you have read the job description and you are confident, based on your previous experience, it's the right fit. Just make sure it matches the experience on your resume.

This is also a great way to take inventory of your skills to see if you are the right fit for the position. You may start writing down the duties of the position and find out it's not really something you want to do. I think a lot of people today look at job titles and apply for positions but don't really spend a lot of time looking at the description of duties in detail.

There is some danger in doing this if you are not completely honest in your description of what you have done in the past. If you do make it to the interview, you can bet your last dollar that any recruiter or hiring manager worth their salt is going to ask you specific questions about any of the things you say that you did. Make sure you can back it up. If you are writing a fairy tale, sooner or later it will catch up with you.

So, if you are ready to take your resume "outside the box". You might try the match game.

Do it as an attachment to your resume and one other thing, try to be brief in your descriptions. Managers are not interested in reading novels nor do they usually have time.

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