Showing posts with label How To Use. Show all posts
Showing posts with label How To Use. Show all posts

Resume Layout - How To Use Your Resume Part 2

This is a continuation of our first article on how to use your resume layout for maximum effect. When we left off, we were reviewing different ways to find jobs to send your resume (using these resume layout tips) and cover letter to.

Cold Calling- When you're applying to an employer without knowing if they are hiring this is considered cold calling. This method involves identifying businesses where you think your skills may be needed, then applying via email with your cover letter and resume. As with other methods, it is important do some research on the company you are applying to and demonstrate your knowledge of their business in your cover letter. You'll also want to tailor your resume layout to that company by emphasizing relevant skills and accomplishments.

Career Sites/Job Listings- Similar process to cold calling, except you may need to follow a pre-defined application format. This may involve copying and pasting your resume layout onto their site or registering an account on their system.

Job Fairs- Fairly self explanatory. Remember that the resume layout you've worked so hard on will look even better printed on heavy, resume grade paper. Dress up and be sure to be confident. If your resume layout does what it's supposed to, they'll spend more than just 10 seconds talking to you.

Step 3- Apply

The first part of this step is easy enough. You've refined your resume layout, drafted a cover letter tailored for this specific employer, and are ready to email it off. Again, make sure you address it to the person you want to see your resume layout (NOT To Whom It May Concern). Do what you have to do to find out this information.

The second part of this step is what most people forget. FOLLOW UP. Again, the best resume layout in the world won't land you a job. Make a note on your calendar, in your cell phone, etc. to follow up on your application. See if they have questions not answered in your resume layout and let them know you'd love to speak in person.

The final part to this formula is "repeat". Keep applying, keep following up. Keep tweaking your resume layout. You will be able to use these resume layout and other tips to find a job, just keep at it. For other free and genuine advice on resume layouts be sure to check out other posts at Resume Layout Advice .

Resume Layout - How To Use Your Resume Part 1

If you've spent enough time here at Resume Layout Advice (and probably other sites too...its OK), then you should be well on your way toward creating a resume which will help get you the interviews you need. As you've certainly read throughout this site, a great resume layout on its own won't get you a job. What a great resume layout can do is get you an interview which will lead to that job. What follows in the next few posts are steps you need to take to land that interview.

1. Cover Letter

Like milk and cookies, a great resume layout is incomplete without an accompanying cover letter. In short, the cover letter is designed to get the employer to read your resume layout (just as your resume layout is designed to get you an interview). The cover letter also compliments the resume layout you've worked so hard on by adding a more personal side to you, the job candidate. We will cover this topic in depth another time, although a great starting resource on this topic is
About.com's cover letter resources. Tip: Make sure to address the cover letter to the person you want to read the letter (HR Director, manager, etc.). You can find out their name/title by calling the company's receptionist or operator.

2. Finding Jobs To Apply To

Now that you've refined your resume layout and have a cover letter to draw them in, it's time to find places to apply to. There are many places to go to look for a job, here are some of the top:

Networking/Word of Mouth- Often touted as the best method around, talk to everyone you know from past jobs as well as family and friends. Ask them if they know of any open positions in your field or know of someone who might. If you find someone who has a lead for you, they also may be able to provide information that will help you tailor your resume layout and cover letter for that specific position.

This post is getting long so you'll be able to find the second half of this topic in part 2. We hope that you are finding the tips and advice on resume layout useful.