Tempesta & Associates, Inc. - The Resume: Just a Part of the Package

The Resume: Just a Part of the Package

written by: Kathy Bornheimer

Most people sweat and strain to put together the perfect resume circulate it and pray for responses. This is using only portion of the resources needed in effective job search for today's market. It's relatively easy to find a job in this area now with the labor shortage. But, most job seekers/career changers are looking for a good or better job with a good organization. That takes extra effort and a good marketing plan, complete with a marketing packet.

A complete packet contains: a well written resume, personal business cards, a one page supplement/highlight sheet, and individualized cover letters. All of these should be on matching or complimentary paper stock.

The following information details each of the components.

Resume:

It's direct evidence of your writing skills
A one or two page resume is appropriate for everyone
White or off white paper with black laser print quality
Layout and spacing will affect readability at a glance
Summarization of accomplishment or qualifications; then reverse chronology.

Don't just think in terms of duties and responsibilities. Assess your skills and professional interests. Remember that you are the best at what you like to do. Which of your skills are the most marketable? What do employers want or need? These items go in the accomplishment/qualification section. These will also be used again in the personal business card.

Put your accomplishments down on paper. Use action words (increased/decreased, developed, managed, directed, implemented, reduced, improved, etc.). Think of earlier accomplishments or skills developed and their applicability to a new position or career. Employers want to know how you can help them succeed. Have a basic resume on disk. Print them out only as needed since customization or modifications may be necessary.

Two-sided Personal Business Cards:

These are much more effective and appropriate when making new contacts. Develop and pay for your own. Don't use your employer-supplied cards. It is more ethical not to use their resources in your job search. It's also safer since your home phone number is listed to avoid calls at work.

The front of the card should have your name, home address, phone number, and personal email address.
Under your name place a "title" or a descriptive phrase that describes your area of expertise. This will give people an idea of what you do.
The back of the card can have 4-8 bullets providing more detail of your abilities and experience. Simply take portions of the summary section from the resume.

The business card will enable you to keep the status of a professional networking instead of a job seeker looking for work.

A one page Supplement/Highlight Sheet:

This covers specific areas germane to a particular job or company. It can be used with or in place of a resume. It is very useful for networking to get your information out there.

Individualized Cover Letter:

No "To whom it may concern" or "Dear Sir/ Madame" salutations allowed! You will be developing a basic cover letter but, only as your guideline. Each cover letter should be address to the intended recipient. If you don't know the name and correct spelling; get it. You want to make sure that the person who can say "yes" receives your information. Again, the cover letter can accompany the resume or precede it.

Always send the business card with any written correspondence including Thank You notes. You'll get the most bang for your buck with the cards. They can still be used after you find your next job, just in case you have to go through this process again.

Having all of these tools at your disposal enables you to put forth a multiple approach sales and marketing campaign in job search/career advancement. You'll increase your avenues for contacting key people, expanding your network, getting your message across, maintaining your dignity, and improve your effectiveness.

Tempesta & Associates, Inc.
6525 North Green Bay Road
Milwaukee, WI 53209

414-967-9250