Resumes with no strings attached

JOB seekers thinking about getting creative with their resumes and adding a gimmick or two might want to think twice before dropping the letter in the post or clicking send on the computer.
Including the passport or glamour photograph that friends and family say looks terrific, that pretty bow or ribbon or sprinkle of confetti in a fancy case will more likely than not have a negative effect on a potential employer.

Hays senior regional director Darren Buchanan said there were other ways to stand out, without turning a resume into a joke. "We see all kinds of gimmicks in resumes,'' Mr Buchanan said.
"Job seekers think the best way to get noticed is to get creative but it is not always the right answer.

"If you are applying for a job in marketing or design or for a job that specifically encourages creativity, then go for it but for most jobs it just isn't necessary.'' Mr Buchanan said gimmicks were subjective and not worth the risk of being misinterpreted.

"You might think it's a great idea but your employer might think otherwise,'' he said. "You're better off focusing on your career history, technical ability, personal achievements and successes.

"A handwritten and personalised cover letter is a good start. "Your resume is the first impression you will have on your potential employer -- they will be less judgmental on your style of handwriting than they will on a photo you send in -- it's human nature to make judgments on appearances.''

Mr Buchanan also said job seekers should avoid everyday buzz words such as ``hard worker,'' "conscientious'' and "can-do attitude'' in their cover letters. "Your resume should be focused on your key skills, demonstrate that you've done your research and show how you will fit into their organisational culture,'' he said.

"Employers are increasingly looking for enthusiasm and cultural fit more so than particular skills -- skills can be taught.'' Although photographs, particularly passport, professional glamour and action shots, are the most popular gimmick, Mr Buchanan said employers also received resumes with coloured paper/envelopes, confetti, bows and expensive cases. "A well-presented, clear and concise resume is all that is necessary,'' he said.

"Gimmicks can be interpreted a number of different ways, whereas a two-page professional resume will get your point across in a straightforward and professional manner. "You don't want it to look like you spent more time on how your resume looks than the content in it.

"If you're unsure, don't do it.'' Mr Buchanan said employers and recruitment consultants often received a high number of job applications and only had limited time to skim read documents for "eye catching points''. "You can keep your resume professional but still eye-catching with a personalised cover letter, key headings and well-written sentences that grab the reader's attention and demonstrate achievements, special projects and key competencies,'' he said.

"Your resume should make a potential employer want to read on further and invite you in for a personal interview -- this is where you can make your first impressions.'' Mr Buchanan said job seekers unsure of where to draw the line, in terms of resume creativity, should ask for advice from a professional or someone associated with the industry.

"Ask yourself: 'what am I trying to achieve and is this what I want my career to be based on?' '' he said.

By Candy Davis, The Courier Mail, July 8, 2006.