Professional Resume Writing Tips to Strengthen Your Job Search Strategy

Resume Writing Tips: Distribution

The job search doesn’t get easier once you’ve finished writing your resume.  How you reach the employer is as important as having a good resume.  Many people now simply rely on a job board like Indeed or LinkedIn to send them open positions that fit their profile.  This type of job search is too passive.  What if the jobs that you’re looking for aren’t on that list?  If that list is going to hundreds, maybe thousands, of people with similar profiles, aren’t you going to have more competition for these positions?  These professional resume writing tips will help you move beyond a passive job search and take a more strategic approach, combining targeted applications, networking, and recruiter outreach to ensure your resume reaches the right employers and stands out in a competitive market.

Professional Resume Writing Tips for Using Job Boards Effectively:

I recommend a more active job search that involves using job boards, tracking jobs at specific companies (and their competitors), networking, and – if appropriate – reaching out to recruiters.  Job boards can be frustrating.  Searching by title on a job board is very difficult.  Five employers will often use five different titles to recruit the same kind of job.  That said, if you’re patient and strategic, job boards can be a good tool.  Track titles for the positions you apply to, and use those that are repeated most when you search for new positions.  You can also use different job boards.  Some employers may post on Indeed and not on LinkedIn.  Some employers might post on industry specific job boards like Built in Chicago for technology or Idealist for jobs in non-profit organizations. 

Another way to identify open positions is to target companies where you want to work and check their websites periodically.  This method can have its own frustrations in that a particular company might not have an opening in your area.  However, if you see a job that you want to apply to, tracking jobs at specific companies can be a very effective way to distribute your resume.  Beyond your ideal companies, you should look at their primary competitors who are likely to have similar positions.  This method of distribution can be used in tandem with a very important way of getting your resume to and employer – networking.

Leverage Your Professional Network for Job Opportunities

When you begin a job search, one of your first actions should be to evaluate your network.  About 50% of all hires are made through networking.  Prepare a list of the people who are most likely to help you.  Set up a time to talk with each person, maybe by buying them lunch or coffee.  Let them know what you are looking for in your current job search, especially if you’re looking for a to move up a level on the career ladder or if you’re making a career change.  Remember to thank anyone in your networking who is trying to help you and let them know that you will help them when they need it.

How a Professional Resume Writing Service Helps You Get Noticed by Recruiters

Recruiters are another way to put your resume in front of an employer.  However, too many job seekers misunderstand what recruiters do.  They think the recruiter will act as their agent in getting a job.  This is true for professional athletes and entertainers.  For most other workers, that is not the case.  Recruiters are hired by companies to find and screen potential employees.  They are filling an order.  Most recruiters also target professionals making $100K⁺.  That said, if you fit the description recruiters are looking for, they can open the door to jobs that you will seldom see advertised. 

What method of distribution should you use?  I’d recommend using all that are relevant to your current job search.  It is difficult to get in front of the right employer.  Use all the tools at your disposal. 

Have questions?  Call or text me at 773-907-8660 or email me at clay@aaatargeted.com