Here is a very helpful article that our certified resume writer, Jasmine Marchong, shared with me recently about being a polite pest during your job search… (I’m telling our clients this all the time by the way, be a pest, just be professional and polite about it!) We’re doing this as a Q&A format again to help you think outside the box using your resume as a tool for your search. Read the article here.

Hallie: How can you be a polite pest specifically with your resume, meaning – what do you think about sending your resume in to a job application in a different way than usual, like via snail mail?

Jasmine: Finding all avenues to apply for a position is most definitely recommended as it provides more opportunities for the employer to notice you. Similar to the advice given in this article, you want to do something different from the masses that shows your persistence, determination, and initiative. Use your network to find someone on the inside or a colleague to submit your resume with a recommendation on your behalf, or try connecting using LinkedIn, or attend mutual professional events and take advantage of the opportunities available. There are many ways you can make a connection and it’s up to to you to step outside the box and capitalize in on those opportunities.

Hallie: What do you think of the use of social resumes these days?

Jasmine: Given the advance in technology and advantages/disadvantages an online visibility can present, I highly recommend each person own their online identity and use the tools available to help develop and advance their presence. Keeping in mind that employers conduct web searches to find and eliminate potential and new talent, the last thing you want is incriminating info that can negatively impact your career and future. Here’s an article that provides some great advice.

Hallie: They talk at the end of the article about following up on a job application as a way to demonstrate you have effective communication skills? How can your resume enhance that image of you being an effective communicator as well?

Jasmine: Statistics indicate employers spend 10-15 seconds maximum (and sometimes even less) reviewing potential resumes to determine the candidate’s fit. Having a clear, concise resume that quickly communicates your value proposition is important to getting you noticed and in the door. The employer is not going to read a lengthy, wordy resume. In fact, you need to get the point, identify what you bring to the table and validate this with measurable results. This type of resume shows your ability to communicate clearly and given the correct application, should induce action.