Submit your resume on a paper stock the reader will remember. That is, one that looks and feels valuable…just like you, the candidate presenting it. Generally, a paper high in cotton will give off this professional feel. As for color, you can never go wrong with white or ivory.
Make your resume stand out by handing it off in a presentation folder or a 9 x 12 mailing envelope to both protect it and give it greater presence.
There is no universal resume format—only guidelines. To up your odds for success, please consider the following when constructing a compelling resume:
Finally, always send a cover letter on matching paper referencing the company’s needs, and your qualifications for the job. A personal letter is always best, so make an effort to get the name/title of the individual in charge of hiring. Remember, your resume is only a door opener. Your ideal goal is to get the in-person interview!
Article Courtesy of the Los Angeles Times CareerBuilder section
A: “There are three reasons why I’m your best choice. First, I have the skills and experience to excel at this job. Second, your company is in an industry that I know and/or that I have a passion for. And finally, I’m not looking for just a job. I want a career opportunity that will help both me and the company prosper. I would be proud to work with a company of your reputation and would dedicate myself to the company’s needs and goals.”
– Barry Wohl, president, Carolina Career Resources, Charlotte, N.C.
A: “Remember, the most often hired candidates are those who prove they can do the job and are persistent. Communicate in a way that demonstrates your ability to produce results. Use result-oriented picture words such as “enlarge” and “accelerate” rather than process words like “interface” and “modify.” Rehearse your knowledge of the job with a friend beforehand.”
– Jim Johnston, managing director, Marston Mills, Inc., Chicago
A: “My weaknesses are my treasures. They reward me with more and more learning about myself and others. That learning fuels continuous self-improvement. Here are my greatest treasures…”
–William Henning, president, Performance Development Systems, Burns Harbor, Ind.
A: “My best boss was someone who promoted an open-door policy. I had enough independence to feel confident in making decisions and if I was unsure of something, I could go to her for direction. Goals were set high for our team, and we were always challenged to do better. Our boss was a tough but supportive and encouraging manager who strived to ensure we excelled. I grew both professionally and personally under her tutelage”– Vicki Layde, CPC, senior consultant, The Opportunities Group, Chicago
A: “The interviewer is usually looking to see if your aspirations fit the realities of the organization. This question can also be a way of gauging your level of ambition. Some organizations would like to hear you say that you plan to be their president in five years. Others would immediately screen you out for the same answer. Suggest career paths that you know are realistic and reasonable for the organization and the opportunity.” – Teri Hires, senior vice president, Lee Hecht Harrison, Houston
A: “I believe that the interviewer is just trying to get to know you. In addition, they want to evaluate what motivates you and at what level. Will you thrive in their environment? Are your goals aligned with the responsibilities of the position? This question is a gift question as it is easy to answer and offers an excellent opportunity for the candidate to shine. I would recommend that candidates answer this question with multiple examples and without hesitation!”
– Carolyn Dougherty, CPC, IntelliSource, Inc., Narberth, PA
It’s important to choose words wisely during an interview. Judy Kneisley, senior vice president and general manager for Lee Hecht Harrison in Los Angeles, says that it’s crucial not to reveal too much information about your personal life. “If someone asks about your hobbies, tell them that they are not overly demanding of your time,” says Kneisley. “Instead of saying you run in marathons, just say that you enjoy running.” Kneisley also stresses the importance of remaining flexible and not reacting too much to personal questions, even those you know cross the ethical line. “An unskilled interviewer may ask if you have kids at home,” says Kneisley. “Just say you’ve got that handled and move on. Don’t ask how it applies.”
You spent many hours rehearsing your interview and so far, your preparation is paying off. You eloquently speak of your strengths, your weaknesses, your special skills and your long-term goals. Your interviewer enthusiastically nods at each response you provide. You figure you’re a hearty handshake away from a job offer. And THEN the final question freezes you in your chair:
“Do you have any questions for me?”
Smart job seekers know that no matter how impressive their interview has been up to this point—it could all be blown right here. By the same token, it can also be a great opportunity to shine.
Understand exactly what position you’re targeting—and what those job duties usually entail—so that you can immediately demonstrate to prospective employers that you understand the position you’re applying for. On a resume, this could be your “Objective.”
That’s the summary or “Professional Profile” section. This is where you outline the skills and credentials that qualify you for the job. You can break your skills into functional sections or use bullet points to highlight key points. If this section is done properly, it will convince prospective employers that the rest of your resume is worth reading.
That’s the “Experience” section. The reader needs to know who you’ve worked for, the city and state where they’re located and what you did while there. Ideally, your job descriptions should include many active verbs and focus on keywords and functional skills that are most relevant to your job target.
The best accomplishments are those that demonstrate quantifiable results and your willingness to go “the extra mile.” Did you come up with an idea that saved the company money? Were you promoted because of your team building skills? Were you selected for a key program because of your positive attitude? Whenever possible, describe how you improved an employer’s bottom line (i.e. doubled sales, cut costs, reduced errors, streamlined processing or improved efficiency.)
When it comes to how far you’ll travel, your hourly rate and the industry you’ll work in, being open-minded can mean the difference between landing a job…and another day on the couch.
New proficiency with computer software can increase your skill set—and boost your hourly earning potential. The more versatile you are, the more marketable you will be.
Take initiative. Be a go-getter. Assert your value by letting your boss know of any additional skills you may have—so he/she can put them to good use.
Being compatible is very important especially if you’re being considered for a full-time opportunity. Your attitude at work will also influence the references you get from that temporary employer once your assignment is complete.
Remember that TeamOne is your employer and your rep is your point of contact. Always feel free to consult them for guidance and advice. They’re the ones who can make life easier for you—and help you land your next assignment.
Jobs orders are being filled constantly. The sooner you can meet with a Staffing Specialist once one becomes available, the more likely it is that you’ll be placed.
If a job order comes in that your TeamOne representative deems you well-suited for, we will contact you immediately. Please make sure we have all your relevant contact information, including:
Stepping into a new job can be awkward, not to mention, intimidating. The skills you display and precedent you set in your first few weeks will lay the foundation for your career with that company. The sooner you are able to settle in and adjust to your new position, the sooner you’ll be able to impress your new boss. That means learning how to approach your work, your superiors and coworkers—so you can acclimate quicker to your new work culture. To thrive in your new work situation, follow these tricks of the trade:
That’s why it’s essential that you develop good safety habits and continually respect safety rules inside any workplace. To help you maintain the highest possible safety standards, our representatives often visit job sites to ensure great attention is paid to these details—and that our employees are not exposed to dangerous activities or potentially hazardous work conditions on any job site.
In addition, TeamOne will also train you about safety rules and if necessary, provide you with personal protection equipment to perform your job. In the event of an injury, it is TeamOne who pays for it—that’s why we must be diligent to protect against injury claims. As a result, TeamOne has instituted the following in the name of keeping you safer and your job, more secure: