resume – Elite Resume Today

Posted on July 26, 2022 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment

8 Resume Success Factors to Get Noticed!

I get asked every day about resume best practices and resume success factors.

People want to know where to start, what to believe, and how to write a strong resume if: “I don’t have anything awesome to share”.

Trust me; everyone has plenty of awesome things to share in their resume as addressed in this post: How to Add Achievements into Your Resume.

Other common resume questions I field:

One page, two pages, or three pages❓

Graphics or no graphics❓

Which keywords to include or avoid❓

How far back do I go with my work history❓

The answer to ALL of the above is ‘it depends’. You are unique; therefore, your resume will be unique as well.

Unfortunately, I don’t have one magic resume formula that works for every job seeker, but for me, all great resumes stem from the same 8 success factors. The following points summarize the key areas I feel should be carefully considered to create a successful resume:

1. Write your resume with your audience top of mind

Yes, the resume may be all about you but it isn’t meant FOR you. Have a clearly defined target picked out so content can be shaped more specifically and speak more directly to each reader’s needs. General resumes don’t work.

2. Keep content relevant; tailor details

Similar to the point above, the more specific the content in a resume = the better. One, single stagnant resume can not possibly address every job’s requirements and nuances. Customize your resume content in just a few simple steps for each application.

3. Share real-life examples of success; not generalized details or superlative statements

Fluffy details like ‘excellent people-person’ or ‘strong team leader’ don’t provide enough context. Instill confidence in the reader with specific stories and concrete examples of achievement.

4. Provide proof. Back up claims with results

Context without results is like a story without an ending. Employers need a way to measure ability and impact. Quantitative details help support your level of success, so be sure to share ‘how many, how much, and how often’. Proof of ability often lies within results.

5. Strive for quality of content versus quantity

In a resume, more can be less. The file is not meant to act as a complete career chronology of everything you’ve ever done. A resume is a marketing tool that must summarize your top-selling points succinctly.

6. Stay authentic

Never feel pressured to write your resume like someone else. Your skill sets are unique, your experiences are unique, and your value is all your own. You can’t box every single person’s career story into one type of resume format. Ensure your resume embraces your true self and shares details both uniquely and authentically.

7. Make the resume as long as you need to convey the above and not one word more

Depending on your career length, experiences, and job target, your resume length will vary. Average resume length is 1-3 pages – pick what works best for YOU; no need to conform to page length myths.

8. Emphasize your value

All of the above points must center around the value you bring to the table. Identify the pain points of each application/organization/employer and position yourself as their problem solver. To accomplish this, you need to first know thyself. What do you have that your competitors do not? How can you positively impact the organization in question?

If you are struggling to write a resume on your own, incorporating these 8 resume success factors, reach out. My personal executive resume writing process is comprehensive and customized. It is caring and collaborative. It is also strategic and supportive.

Posted on July 11, 2022 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment

CFO Resume: Make a High-Value Impact

You’re a top producer – which means you need a resume that produces results too. If you are sending out your CFO resume and not getting the desired responses, there is likely some work to be done.

A CFO resume must illustrate unique and high value, presenting the candidate as an astute business leader who is well-informed of both current financial and corporate challenges. Apply these 3 strategies to raise the value and impact of your CFO resume:

1. GET CURRENT

If you haven’t conducted a job search in some time you are likely behind in modern job search trends. Today’s CFO resumes involve strong strategies and polished presentations to stand out. Some significant tactics include:

Keep it short. A densely packed resume can do you more harm than good. Nobody wants to read a ‘career obituary’ (everything ever done and every role ever held). Think succinct marketing tool and make every word count.

Keep it focused and relevant. Eliminate lengthy job descriptions and generalized overviews; these are a given. Pinpoint pertinent career content that demonstrates a solid understanding of the role requirements. Qualify content carefully and only share details and specifics that directly address the readers’ needs.

Keep it loaded with results. Pack in power statements with exact metrics for massive impact. Top achievers need examples that provide the proof and front-load statements for greater punch:

Raised $34M in venture and corporate funding in 3 years.
Negotiated $21M acquisition with additional $6M equity investment.
Generated $40M in additional cash by identifying and eliminating underperforming assets.
Saved $50K in annual software maintenance and licensing fees by implementing an updated software program.

2. KNOW YOUR VALUE

CFOs typically progress along a similar career track and share many skills and values, but no two are exactly alike. Why should YOU be chosen to lead financial decisions in this top corporate role? Spend time contemplating and calculating your ‘10% difference’. What makes you unique?

Drill down to identify what makes you an authority in your industry and flesh out examples of where you’ve risen to the challenge. You need to convince high-level recruiters, boards, committees, and executive management that you can make a positive financial impact to the business.

Provide specific profit and revenue gains, cost savings, or streamlined efficiencies to support your statements and skills. You can’t just claim to be good at something, you must prove it.

Develop a strong value proposition to summarize high-level experiences and work to support this statement throughout the document. Targeted branding or value proposition statements include:

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

STREAMLINES FINANCIAL PROCESSES FOR FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES | $300M in COST-SAVINGS | BUDGETS up to $2B

or….

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Expert in Venture & Corporate Funding | Revenue & Business Expansion | M&A Administration

Drives operational and financial efficiency as a trusted advisor and partner, creating over $40M in annual cost savings. Connects entrepreneurial companies with venture capital to heighten business performance.

3. SHARPEN THE PRESENTATION

Top executives need distinct resumes that scream polished professional. Employ savvy layouts and design components (charts, graphs, or colour) to ensure the resume impresses at first glance.

Chart it. Visually represent revenue increases, profit or productivity advances, or cost savings. Graphs or charts often speak louder than words.

Bullet it. Deliver ‘bite size’ and easily digestible points instead of heavy blocks of text. The difference can be dramatic. Here’s a comparison:

Before:

Sought out areas for revenue improvement and increases. Located and handled negotiation for an acquisition, valued at $6M, which ultimately produced a strong return on investment (approximately eight times the return over a five year time span).

After:

Helmed $6M acquisition negotiation which produced 8 times the return on investment within 5 years, strengthening revenue potential.

The bulleted content above is sharper, key details jump out, and wordiness is drastically reduced.

As a leading results-generator you likely lack the time to tackle a proper resume renovation, so don’t risk being passed over for a position at the top; turn your project over to a trusted professional.

A top performer like yourself understands the return on a good investment and the cost of a bad one. Your career is too valuable to gamble with using a resume that may never work. Partner with a pro to ensure ROI: www.CareerImpressions.ca

Posted on June 20, 2022 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment

8 Executive Resume Red Flags

People often ask me to review their resumes and note any potential red flags that they should address. Although I’m not able to review the majority of resumes that are sent to me (I simply do not have the capacity!), here are 8 executive resume red flags that I personally come across.

1. Task-Heavy Content ????

Copying and pasting job descriptions into your resume will provide zero value to the reader. Instead, share pertinent content from your career that demonstrates proof of ability in alignment with job requirements.

2. An Objective Statement ????

Hiring managers want to know WIIFM “What’s In It For Me”; NOT what your personal end-goal is. Ditch the objective and share a value-based headline/tagline that aligns offerings with needs.

3. Loooong Length ????

Extremely long resumes are rarely read in full – or appreciated. Think quality of content versus quantity. Distill details down to what matters most, letting value dictate an appropriate length while keeping content focused and succinct.

When I posted this topic on LinkedIn and asked resume writers, career experts, and recruiters to weigh in with their thoughts on executive resume red flags, responses centred around several common themes. Here is the link to the entire thread but I’ve gone ahead and captured a few of the responses below for your reading pleasure:

4. Lack of Focus at the Start ????

Kelly Gadzinski: Lacking a bold headline and opening summary that effectively showcases personal brand in a unique and eye-catching way.

Skye Berry-Burke: For me, the key is in the branding headline/ tagline. If I can’t determine your target or industry from the start, my motivation to continue reading is challenged.

Jessica Hernandez : I agree with Skye. I think the branding headline/position title at the top really sets the stage for the entire resume. If this is missing it cripples the entire resume and leaves the potential employer with a big question mark. I’m a big believer in the importance of clarity on a resume and a clear branding headline/position title is critical for that clarity.

5. Overpopulated Information ????

Kamara Toffolo: Bullet Barf. Listing every single detail with a bullet or bullets that are actually paragraphs. Max 2 lines per bullet, please.

Virginia Franco: Dense text is my biggest beef — when something is too long, too verbose, or doesn’t get to the point — you run the risk that the reader will skip it altogether.

Ana Lokotkova: If it’s a bullet, it means it needs to be short and sweet and not a 5-line long paragraph.

6. Deficient Customization ????

Omar Osmani: Lack of customization, using the same resume to apply for all positions. Take the time to review and understand the job description. Then customize your resume to help show the potential employer how you are a great fit for the role.

7. Missing Results ????

Erin Kennedy: Not backing up your value with actual accomplishments. Just saying you are a “business development rockstar” isn’t enough. Prove it. What did you actually do to give yourself that title? The reader wants to know!

Jamie Chapman: I second several of the previous comments about backing up your “brag” items with your experience… it’s not congruent to say, “I’m awesome at managing budgets,” and then never drop a single dollar figure in your resume.

Scott Leishman: Resumes should have specific numbers that show the scope of the candidate’s responsibility and achievements that relate to the position they are going after. Dollar signs are much more powerful and precise than percentages.

Tom Adam: People need to list concrete, measurable achievements, whether it’s performance against sales quotas, up-time maintained in complex IT systems, number of new customers obtained, etc. Listing your duties alone isn’t a resume — it’s a job description. Whether you were an accountant, a sales rep, or a software engineer, we know what you did. What we want to know, however, is whether you were any good at it.

8. Weak Attention to Detail ????

Jeff Lipschultz: Errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. If you cannot proof your own resume, what kind of attention-to-detail do you possess?

Javier Vinsome: Repetitive action words. Overuse of “Responsible for…”. Employment with no dates.

Sarah Johnston: I’ll add font sizes under 10! The reader should not need to squint to read your resume.

Laura Smith-Proulx: Information shown in bold for no good reason – when it’s detrimental to the candidate. If you’ve job-hopped, don’t put dates in bold or right-justify them. If your positions date back to 1979, don’t put them in bold (and of course, eliminate some of these positions).

Thank you career experts and hiring personnel for sharing your insights on these 8 executive resume red flags!

If you are an executive looking to eliminate resume red flags and elevate your resume to a modern standard, visit me at www.CareerImpressions.ca to learn how I can help.

Posted on June 6, 2022 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment

CEO Resume Strategy: 4 Important Tips

A CEO career is guaranteed to be rich in detail. However, a common mistake I see CEOs make in their resume strategy is spending too much time writing about their work and not enough time emphasizing their results.

What sets a CEO apart from competitors, though, are results.

Bottom-line business impacts, organizational growth, and business expansion are big, CEO-career wins that need to be strategically packaged and positioned in a resume to generate meaningful impact.

To hook and engage readers, a CEO resume should be less ‘here’s what I did every day’ and more ‘here are some carefully curated big wins, which align well with your role requirements’.

So how can you energize your executive resume with more meaningful content? Here are 4 resume tips to help your CEO resume strategy:

Provide clear statements of value

Don’t make readers guess or hunt. Large, heavy blocks of text can bury key facts and make it difficult to decipher clear value. Also, droning on about role oversights or daily responsibilities doesn’t provide a true scale of abilities.

Instead, spoon-feed the reader the facts they want, first…and add scale (size) to details. A good place to start is the resume header – which should be distinct and defined, something like:

President and CEO:

$45M Global Facilities Management | Teams to 450 | 300% Revenue Growth in 4 Years

Continue to provide succinct descriptions of performance throughout the resume, placing a heavier emphasis on related metrics and achievements. Remember, less work and more results.

A content-heavy, work-focused excerpt might read:

CEO of the company for the past 5 years, overseeing all aspects of company operations and reporting, including investor relations, financing, operational strategy, business development, safety, contract negotiations, change management, treasury management, capitalization for projects, safety, and budgeting. Focused strategies on EBITDA growth and revenue expansion, increasing both dramatically during tenure. To create necessary operational cost-savings, reduced closed down operations in one city and renegotiated long-term service contracts with vendors to reduce expenses.

A sharper, results-focused excerpt which distills job tasks and showcases impacts:

In first year, realized EBITDA growth of 250% and increased production 360%. Continue to drive all aspects of national operations, including investor relations, financing, safety, business development, contract negotiations, and capitalization of company and projects, overseeing a team of 100 and a budget of $125M.

Expanded revenue from $1.5M to $26M over 5 years after introducing sales optimization process.

Reduced employee turnover from 120% to 10% in 1 year by initiating new benefit program.

Generated $5M+ in cost-savings by renegotiating long-term service contracts.

Pack the file with plenty of action, and mix it up

Vary word use throughout the resume, both for keyword purposes and increased reader engagement. For example, starting every bullet point with the word “managed” does not provide depth and breadth of ability, nor will it excite the reader.

Instead of dwelling on ‘responsible for’ statements, drive action and energy into your file with easy to absorb ‘sound bites’ or bulleted statements with varying action words and bolded measurements of achievement. An example:

Exceeded EBITDA target 6% in 2020 and 5% in 2021, achieving best financial performance of all districts.

Reduced district COR $2.6M after leading most successful tuck-in acquisition in company’s history.

Slashed TRIR score 35% in 2020 and an additional 15% in 2021 by establishing safety committee to build an organically-grown safety-first culture.

Additional heavy-hitting, executive action words to consider: helmed, orchestrated, spearheaded, generated, reduced, engineered, secured, raised, produced, steered. See a longer list here.

Hammer home main themes so your unique brand and offering are clear

When we share something more than once it improves the chances of the information resonating. It also increases the reader’s confidence.

Repeat and reinforce key concepts, required skill sets, keywords, and personal impacts in your CEO resume to drive home your personal value proposition and brand. The more a reader reads something, the easier it will be to remember and buy into.

If your value proposition is: “Output-Oriented Leader Who Drives Revenue and Profit Growth through Continuous Improvement and Strategic Change”……. then you need to reiterate achievements in these areas throughout the file. Give an example of revenue/profit growth in every role possible, and provide multiple examples of continuous improvement strategies or positive change.

Start the resume with strong statements in alignment with this branding statement and continue the theme to the very end. The goal is to back up your claim to fame, with proof!

Improve resume reading performance

Will your resume pass the initial 5-second scan? If you want the reader to take a second, harder look, the resume must grab attention immediately. Make it easy to navigate the file, quickly. Tighten language. Shorten statements. Clearly define sections.

Deliver important details with emphasis. Various design components such as charts, graphs, bolded words, larger font/text, and the inclusion of colour are all potential ways to make important facts pop off a page. When used appropriately, and in strategic moderation, design can help guide the reader’s eye. Just ensure the design does not distract!

Take the examples below. Here, key content is shared in unique ways, making details hard to overlook:

The ultimate CEO resume strategy is to infuse the file with content that compels a reader to engage and learn more. Details should be well aligned with position requirements and easy to spot and absorb. Avoid work basics and deliver bold results!

Want more examples of strong, executive resumes? See these resume samples.

Looking for a modern, professional CEO resume strategy that sets you apart from competitors? Check out my resume writing packages at: www.careerimpressions.ca

Posted on December 17, 2021 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment

Key Components Of An Effective Resume

An impressive resume has a much bigger impact on employment prospects than most candidates realize. A hiring manager only reads your resume for a minute or two before deciding whether you are worth interviewing. A good resume has to convey your most prominent qualities and present your flaws in a way that does not hinder your chances of going further. Every employer has a checklist in mind when skimming through any resume, and the profiles that tick the majority of boxes on this checklist end up successful. Here are a few features recommended by resume makers to make any profile attractive to an employer.

1. Easy to Read

No matter what format you choose and what font you go with, your resume has to be easy to read to make an impact. Most HR executives have to go through hundreds or even thousands of resumes during the hiring process. Unless your resume has a visual appeal, it is highly unlikely to be noticed by anyone. Ensure the headings, the spacing, and the fonts all look coherent, and there is no disruption within the format. You can take the help of a resume writing company to make sure your resume is free of any such flaws.

2. Free of Jargons

The only jargons a resume should have are the ones used within the hiring company or the industry. Using abbreviations or shorthands for important terminologies might confuse the reader. You won’t get a chance to clear any of these confusions unless you get called for an interview. And the chances of getting interviewed are substantially reduced when an employer isn’t convinced of your talents by reading your CV or resume.

3. Supplemented with a Cover Letter

Some employers specifically ask for a cover letter, whereas others leave it to the applicants. Whichever might be the case, you should always submit a cover letter along with a resume. A cover letter can be helpful when a hiring manager wishes to inquire further about your qualifications without arranging for an interview. It showcases a candidate’s willingness to go above and beyond for getting hired. It indicates dedication on the part of the candidate that is bound to improve your prospects. Professional resume writing services encourage job applicants to always supplement their resumes with a cover letter when applying for a corporate position.

4. Professional Finish

There is no room for informal or casual language when writing a resume for an important job. From the vocabulary to the grammar, everything has to showcase the professionalism of the applicant. The email address you add to your resume must be professional (not something you came up with as a teenager), and the phone number must have a formal voicemail message to greet the callers. These details might seem irrelevant to an applicant but leave a lasting impression.

5. Be Objective

When mentioning your soft skills and personal abilities, use objective terms to describe your qualities. Avoid adding fluff to the resume that might not have any quantifiable value. Mention instances of when you impressed your previous employers. Give real-life examples of when you solved problems that were presented to you at your past job. A resume services company can help turn subjective characteristics into objective qualities and make your resume seem exceptional.

6. Incorporate Keywords

Look for the soft or hard skills an employer has mentioned on the job ad. Incorporate these terms into your resume, so your profile is easily matched with the related job description. A resume review service can help you come up with smart terms that will naturally point towards your qualities that fit a particular role.

7. Explain Gaps Shortly

If you have a short gap in your resume, it is advisable to avoid its mention in the CV. However, if the gap is significant, you may give a short explanation without extending your resume further than two pages. Professional resume builder services can present any gap in your career in a way that will address all concerns of your prospective employer.

Key Components of an Effective Resume 4

8. Relevant Experience

You might have interned and worked at numerous organizations before, but there is no point in mentioning any such experience that doesn’t show a connection with your current application. It makes your resume unnecessarily long, and the reader might lose interest before getting to the relevant points in your profile. Mention the experience that might make you an attractive candidate for the job and omit any irrelevant internships or volunteering experience.

9. Set Realistic Expectations

There is a difference between confidence and exaggeration. Do not make claims in your resume that cannot be supported by proof or references. An experienced hiring manager can spot false claims very easily and might not believe any of your other qualifications because of it. Companies that offer resume writing help can formulate a profile for you that captures all your exceptional abilities in a realistic manner.

10. Omit Salaries

It gives your CV an unprofessional finish when you mention your previous salaries or your future demand in a CV. Experienced HR executives and managers are already aware of industry norms. They have a clear idea of how to decide on a salary, so you don’t need to mention it yourself.

11. Avoid Mentioning Negatives

Any failed business or employment attempt might not be suitable for mentioning on your resume. Additionally, if you worked for an employer for a period of fewer than six months, abstain from adding this experience to your resume. Switching from one employer to another too quickly leaves a bad impression on your resume. Try to stay neutral when discussing your reason for leaving a job or career, and do not talk negatively about your previous employer either.

Resume Professional Writers is a resume and cover letter service provider that offers you a chance to impress any hiring parties with your qualifications. Our online resume services can be availed by any employment applicants across the country who wish to land a job in their desired industry.

Categories: Blog, effective resume, guide to writing resume, resume, resume writer, resume writers, resume writing, writing resume

Posted on December 16, 2021 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment
Considerations For Choosing The Right Resume Writing Service

When thousands of people are applying for the same job, it can be hard to get noticed by a prospective employer. Hiring executives search for unique capabilities within each candidate’s profile, and there might not be a second chance for you once your CV is overlooked.

Taking the help of professional resume writers might be a viable option for those unfamiliar with the job sector they are applying within. Here are a few helpful tips on hiring professional resume writers.

1. Look for Certified Professionals

Anyone can claim to be a resume writer without having certification to support their word. Certified professional resume writers understand the industry they operate in. They know what each employer expects from a job applicant. They are aware of changing industry trends and alter their approach accordingly. A certified professional will not only design an exceptional CV for you but also help you familiarize yourself with industry norms and trends you might be unaware of.

2. Opt for a Targeted Resume

A resume could have all the qualities one can imagine, but it won’t stand out if it is not tailored to individual characteristics. A resume that expresses your personality, values, skills, and qualifications in the best way can only be made by an experienced resume writer. Find a resume writing service that knows how to match your unique profile with that of a particular job description. Don’t settle for companies that only know how to make generic CVs.

3. Ask for Samples

Most reputable resume services already have samples available on their websites to give you an idea of their work. You can ask for more samples that are specific to your career field and make a well-informed decision. Examine these resumes carefully and analyze the quality and relevancy of the content. Make sure the company you hire for resume writing help uses state-of-the-art equipment and up-to-date software. A technologically up-to-date resume can significantly impact your job prospects, especially if you’re applying for a tech job.

4. Decide on a Budget

Affordability is an important factor when choosing the services of a CV writing firm. Draw up a budget ahead of the process and find a service that falls within that price range. Additionally, do not go for a company that sets the price ‘per page.’ A resume is best kept short and precise, so there is no point in paying higher for adding more pages.

5. Ask for Personal Interaction

The professionals creating your CV must communicate with you in person and customize your profile accordingly. Resume services that make you fill out a lengthy form often design similar resumes for all their clients. Ask to meet your resume writer personally, and discuss your qualifications, skills, and goals to help them write an impactful resume.

6. Ask Questions

Before hiring a professional resume writer, ask them questions about your industry and determine if they are knowledgeable enough for the task you are assigning them. Instead of talking to their sales team, ask to get in touch with a writer directly. Assess the skills of this writer based on your interaction, and don’t get your resume done by an anonymous writer.

7. Use your Contacts

People working in the human resources department often know about companies that are experts at writing professional resumes. Ask your friends or acquaintances for recommendations for resume writing services before making any decision. Only choose a company that has a high success ratio of getting their clients placed in desired organizations. Use online review forums to inquire about a particular service and steer clear of those with too many negative reviews.

8. Look for Testimonies

Every successful resume critique service has numerous testimonies from satisfied clientele available on their website. These testimonies can assure you of the capabilities of a professional resume writer and address any concerns you might have. You will also notice certain qualities that are the most preferred by their clients and the features that make their service unique.

9. Don’t Stick to Locals

There is no guarantee that a local will do a better job than a resume writer providing services across the state. Explore all your options online, and if a reputable firm operates from a different city or state, don’t hesitate to avail their services. You can maintain contact with the writer by any virtual means and get the same results as you would from a local company.

10. Talk to Multiple Writers

Before making the final decision, talk to at least three writers from the related company. You may think you have struck gold when interviewing the first writer, but there might be better in store for you. Most companies employ a mix of resume writers who are all unique in their capabilities. Only by comparison can you realize which writer measures up to your expectations. Avoid hiring resume writing services that do not let you compare writers, so you don’t have to make any decision half-heartedly.

11. Read the Terms Carefully

Before signing up for a service, make sure you read their contract carefully. Know exactly what you are paying for so there are no unexpected outcomes at the end of the process. When you are paying for executive resume writing services, make sure the services they provide are worth the price they charge.

12. The Process

Determine how long they take to complete a resume and the steps involved in the process. You certainly don’t want to add another arduous chore to the job hunting procedure that is already hectic. Make sure they deliver on the timeline you decide and don’t prolong the process.

Resume Professional Writers ranks among the top resume writing services in multiple states of the U.S. due to their exceptional track record. Their competent resume writers have successfully gotten numerous candidates hired within some of the most prestigious organizations in the country.

Categories: Blog, choosing resume service, resume, resume writer, resume writers, resume writing, resume writing service, writing resume

Posted on November 23, 2021 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment
How Professionally Written Resumes Can Boost Your Chances Of Landing Higher Paying Jobs

Landing higher-paying jobs may be challenging but not impossible. The hiring process is a struggle in itself, especially after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people who were laid-off are still struggling to find jobs, and those who are still employed are still working hard to get promotions or find jobs that pay more.

Most people only get a median raise of 3% in their current jobs, and it can be hard to land a higher paying job. To boost your chances of finding a job, that too a higher paying one, you can hire a professional resume writing service. Most of the time, people are unaware of what a hiring manager requires from an applicant’s resume. Most resumes are not even read by human beings as they’re filtered out by an Applicant Tracking System and end up in a resume black hole.

With the help of an expert resume writer, your resume can be improved, and you can land a higher paying job more easily than if you were to write your resume yourself. Professionally written resumes are valued more by many recruiters and can help candidates secure jobs more easily.

Those who are professionals in the resume writing services industry are constantly aware of any changes in the industry standards. They keep track of what the hiring managers require from the aspiring applicants and what they expect out of a well-written resume for a high-paying job.

Whether it is the skillset, professional experience, education history, or the formatting of the resume, professional resume writers understand what recruiters are on the lookout for during the hiring process. Anything that is outdated, unprofessional, inadequate, or overused is excluded from the resume.

A top resume writing service will help you present yourself to the interview through your excellent resume. Not only will the expert resume writers help you understand your offerings better but use those offerings to your advantage, so you’re able to sell yourself better through your resume.

An expert resume writer will ask you about yourself, your experiences, what you desire out of your career, how you’re fit for a higher-paying job, and what skills you possess that make you an ideal applicant. These questions will also prepare you well for your interview once your resume impresses the hiring manager.

Many people applying for a job have no idea how to present themselves to the interviewer, despite having tons of experience and knowledge. The professional resume designers will help you phrase your professional experience in better words and showcase your skills and knowledge which will also help you during the interview stage. You can even learn more about the industry the higher paying job is situated in and how your goals match with that of the company.

Professional resume writers have written resumes for years for people belonging to many different backgrounds and applying for jobs in different industries. Their career as professional resume writers speaks for itself. Their words and skills that have helped them craft strong resumes can surely boost your chances of landing a higher-paying job.

Your objective is clear to a professional resume writer and they can make your abilities and accomplishments sound more enticing. Your experience and skills are incorporated in the resume in such a way that enables the use of industry keywords and particular phrases that employers are looking for.

Some people who have been in the same industry or career path for a long time could also be looking for a higher paying job in a different field altogether and have no idea how to make that change or transfer.

Some are stressed by the confusion and are uncertain about which skills to list that would make them a good fit and which skills are transferable for a particular higher-paying job in the new field. A professional resume writer wouldn’t have to ponder over these things and can help you align your skills with the requirements of the job you’re targeting for.

Professionals can make your resume fit enough for the modern-day job requirements and insert keywords that will help you pass the Applicant Tracking System. These keywords will make sure the system doesn’t filter you out, and your resume ends up in the hands of the employers.

According to a study, 42% of participants who were a part of the study were able to secure a position that paid more. Not just this, most participants found a new job within 90 days. Professionally written resumes help make a good first impression on the recruiters, increasing the candidate’s chances of landing the job. You can solicit the services of a resume writing company to help you with your resume.

Resume Professional Writers is a resume services company with some of the most experienced resume writers on board. We provide a range of resume writing services, ranging from resume critique to resume editing services. In addition, we also offer LinkedIn profile writing services and CV writing services.

We understand that many people don’t know about the nuances of drafting a resume and miss out on the little details that can help them meet the necessary job requirements. Moreover, the professionals on our team understand tailoring your resume to specific jobs can be challenging, and we certainly can help you through that. If you don’t wish to waste your time and land a higher-paying job faster, you can take help from our professional resume writing services.

Visit our website for more information, or browse through our services to get started.

Categories: Blog, jobs, land high paying jobs, professional resume, professionally written resume, resume, resume writing

Posted on November 21, 2021 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment
8 Resume Mistakes To Avoid

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, the job market has also suffered. Many people lost their jobs, and even now, most Americans are unemployed. In these times of uncertainty and a competitive job market, if your resume is not powerful and polished, you need to immediately do it.

Having a well-organized and strong resume can give you an edge over others looking for employment. It is the most important tool you have with you in your search for a job. But certain resume mistakes can be grave and need to be avoided because they can undo all your hard work in seconds.

Typos, Grammar, and Formatting Errors

Typos, grammatical errors, and any other mistakes present in your resume can be a deal-breaker for some employers. Oftentimes, people overlook the need for perfect grammar and spelling because they don’t want to get into the hassle of editing, proofreading, or formatting their resumes properly. People forget the importance of doing these things because this goes on to show your unprofessionalism to any employer.

Correct spelling and grammar, along with a properly formatted resume, are the key to landing a job. Pay attention to detail, and this will only reflect well on you. It will tell your recruiter that you’re a diligent person and are good at communication.

Ask a friend to go over your resume, so any mistakes or missing words are pointed out. Be careful about present tense and past tense. Format your resume in a professional layout and don’t make it hard to read.

Attaching a Photo of Yourself

Some jobs could require you to insert a picture of yourself or a headshot, like a modeling gig or audition for an acting job, but it is always recommended not to attach your photo on your resume. Including your photo could risk the employers rejecting your application because appearances can create a bias and distraction. Employers usually don’t want to be accused of discriminating against some candidates based on their appearances.

Using Passive Language

According to the experts at Harvard, using passive language can make the resume boring, vague, confusing, or hard to understand. It is recommended that you use active language with a lot of action words/verbs.

An example of passive vs. active language can be:

Passive: There was a project completion rate of 80% managed by my team.

Active: My time was able to achieve a project completion rate of 80%.

Avoid Word Stuffing or Unnecessary Jargon

It is recommended to use keywords related to the job or industry they’re applying to so their resume makes it past the applicant tracking system, which is used by 75% of the large companies as of today.

Recruiters prefer these words, but some people can incorporate too many of these keywords into their resume, which can become extremely obvious to anyone reading the resume, and they could possibly reject your resume.

It’s important to only use words that can show the employers how you’re fit for the job and avoid words that can take away the focus from your and your skills, experiences, or accomplishments.

Listing Irrelevant Skills

When you’re mentioning your skills, always make sure they’re relevant to the job role you’re applying for. This will help the hiring manager understand how you could be fit for the role. If you start listing skills that are irrelevant to the job and in no way add to your credibility, the employer can overlook your resume.

Missing Contact Information

The most important thing one should include in their resume is their contact information on top of the resume is big enough and in bold letters. If you miss out on including this information, the employer or recruiter wouldn’t be able to reach out to you, and you definitely don’t want that.

Make sure the information you include is up to date and reachable. The information should include your name, phone number, email address, and in some cases, either your LinkedIn profile or your website’s link.

Not Concise or Easy to Skim

A simple resume with black and white clear headings, proper spaces, and bullet points or lists is the correct way to format your resume. This will make your resume concise, to the point, and easy for any hiring manager to skim through. Use bold letters or italics to emphasize anything.

Make sure all your experiences are listed in chronological order, and the details of all your achievements or accomplishments are listed in order of importance.

Too Long or Too Short

Your resume shouldn’t be too short or too long. An ideal resume should not be any more than one page and two pages, at max. This doesn’t mean you leave out important experiences or achievements but keep everything brief and only elaborate where needed. Narrate everything but don’t make it sound like a novel.

If you’re a fresh graduate, make sure your resume is long enough and not too short. Include your academic projects or experiences, and don’t leave any blank spaces.

Hire the Experts for Help

If you are having trouble organizing or writing your resume, you can always utilize a professional resume and cover letter service. Sometimes, even after doing everything right and perfect to a T, a professional’s work will be neater and on point because of all the experience and expertise they have. If you don’t want to risk losing out on an important job, you might want to consider asking experts for help.

Our expert and professional resume designer can help you craft a resume that is strong, powerful, and will surely land you an interview.

Resume Professional Writers is a resume writing company. In addition to our professional resume writing services, we also offer LinkedIn writing services and CV writing services.

Visit our website for more information. Alternatively, you can check out our services here.

Categories: Blog, resume, resume mistakes, resume writers, resume writing

Posted on October 16, 2021 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment
A Guide To Creating The Perfect Job Application

In a market as competitive as now, people looking for jobs must put their best efforts possible into every aspect of the hiring process to ensure their chances. The hiring process has become fairly standardized, with the typical resume, cover letter, and interview process following suit everywhere. Despite a somewhat universal approach, people continue to make some of the most common mistakes in their job application packet.

Here’s how you can create a job application packet that employers will not only want to go through but appreciate, increasing your chances of getting hired:

Accomplishments and Qualifications Audit

Before you’re in a rush to start compiling the documents that you need to present to your employer, your first step is to do an accomplishments and qualifications audit. One of the most common mistakes people make when writing their resumes and CVs is that they don’t have a general outline of what they have to write and what they need to omit. There’s extra emphasis on the latter in some regards. Unless you’re applying for an acting role, it’s not worth mentioning that you played Toto in The Wizard of Oz for your 4^th-grade play.

Depending on the position and job you’re applying for, you have to list and explain your prior work and educational experiences in a positive light that explains how you’re a fit candidate for the job. People prefer hiring those that have some grasp of the fundamentals of the work they’re going to do, so any amount of knowledge and experience is a bonus.

Résumé

The two most common mistakes that most employers report are in the resumes they receive and regarding the length and information quoted. A resume presents the reader with your past education and experience in the easiest to skim form possible. Following a reverse chronological order, explaining them very briefly the basic details of what you did.

You must pay attention to the keywords available in the original listing and incorporate them throughout the resume in a seamless fashion. You have to do all of that while keeping the document under one page. While beautification isn’t a must-have, your resume must look clean, easy to read, and divided into sections so that people can quickly skim to relevant sections and find what lies wherein a single glance.

Cover Letter

A cover letter’s purpose is to be a bit more detailed than your resume rather than a skim-worthy piece. It should have vital information about where you sell yourself. One of the biggest mistakes people make in their cover letter is also one of the most commonplace errors – sending the identical cover letter to multiple employers. Before you start jotting away, ensure you’ve gone through the details in the original hiring listing. If you’re applying for a Java developer position, all your Java projects, skills, and experience should be front and center without excessive exaggeration.

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The cover letter should present you as someone that fits the requirements for the listing. Your experiences and formal education work should reflect that, so it should be highlighted above the others and emphasized without exaggeration. Another major selling point is explaining to them what you’ve achieved rather than what you did. For example, don’t just say that you managed the marketing team for 3 years. State that your efforts as marketing manager resulted in 15 successful campaigns throughout your tenure. Numbers and results are crucial.

Recommendation Request Email

Having a recommendation only emphasizes the case for having you on board as an employee. It’s a sign of competence and character, and willingness to offer assurance in the hiring process. A recommendation request email is an email you send to your potential recommender so that they can write a recommendation letter for you in return.

The recommender may or may not know all of the details, so it’s important to present them with the job listing and other crucial details such as your accomplishments and qualifications. An excellent letter of recommendation requires you to cooperate with your recommender so that all of the details that they present in the final draft present you in the best light possible.

Interview Follow-up Messages

Once you’ve had your interview, it’s a strategic move to send a follow-up message to them later on. These can be hand-written notes, letters but ideally, they’re emails or courtesies. They’re an excellent way for you to inquire about your hiring status and present a continued interest in the position. In some cases, if you’re aware you made a blunder or missed out on any aspect of your interview, you can elaborate the point, later on, to correct a mistake or gain extra points in their book.

Conclusion

A job application packet is something you should divert your focus towards. Many of the documents will require several drafts to accumulate a single document that provides all the details without being excessive. Comprehensive doesn’t mean exhaustive, and you have to keep the information centered on presenting you as the best candidate possible for the work.

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Your goal is to offer them value as an employee, not the other way around. If you’re having an issue creating any of the required documents, it’s recommended you work with services that have expertise in creating such documents.

Are you struggling to get past the job application phase? Been through various iterations of your resume but haven’t found one that sticks? Consider getting help from professionals. You can find professional resume writing services with Resume Professional Writers; we offer help on resume, resume review, preparation, and resume critique services. Our professional resume builder and CV writing services aim to help you be the shoo-in candidate for wherever you apply. Regardless of the industry, we cater to all.

We also have a professional LinkedIn profile writing service for LinkedIn profile development. Reach out to us today to get started.

Categories: Blog, cover letter, interview follow up, job, job application, Job Interview Tips, recommendation, resume

Posted on October 14, 2021 by Susan Bamford — Leave a comment
How To Write A Cover Letter In 2021

You might have often heard about the importance of attaching a cover letter to your job application. A cover letter can increase your chances of getting the position you’re applying for or at least receiving a callback. However, writing a cover letter is an art that you must master, and it requires time to develop the skills to write cover letters that impress employers.

If you’ve just graduated, you might not know what cover letters are and what they entail. Likewise, if you’ve never submitted a cover letter in your career before, you might find them perplexing. Therefore, before you can write a captivating cover letter, you’ll need to learn everything you can about them.

What is a Cover Letter?

Before we proceed any further, let’s get one thing clear. Cover letters aren’t mandatory unless stated otherwise. However, many employers do prefer them. According to a survey by Resume Labs, 83 percent of human resource professionals consider cover letters to be essential. Moreover, these hiring executives also state that an excellent cover letter can compensate for a substandard resume and help you get an interview 83 percent of the time. Therefore, you can’t deny the importance of writing a killer cover letter.

Now, you might be wondering, what’s a cover letter? A cover letter is a one-page document that supplements the contents of your resume. Typically, candidates use cover letters to provide employers an overview of their job history and skills. In addition, you’ll also want to use your cover letter to demonstrate your interest in the position. Moreover, a well-written cover letter can help provide a glimpse of your personality to prospective employers. It’s also an opportunity to showcase why you would be a suitable fit for the company.

Considering unemployment soared in 2020, it’s more important than ever to attach a cover letter with your resume to stand out among a sea of candidates. According to the Resume Labs survey, 74 percent of hiring executives prefer receiving applications with cover letters than without one. If you want to increase your chances of receiving a job interview, consider drafting a cover letter.

How to Write a Cover Letter in 2021: A Comprehensive Guide 4

What Should a Cover Letter Contain?

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn about the contents of these letters. Although there’s no standard format for cover letters, most recruiters agree that a cover letter should follow some fundamental principles. For starters, you’ll want to include carefully curated career stories to provide a glimpse of your work experience and accomplishments. Moreover, you’ll also want to highlight the skills you bring to the table. In addition, you’ll want to combine these two to demonstrate how you can add value to the reader’s organization. Lastly, you’ll want to use a paragraph or two to showcase your knowledge about the employer’s work history and specify your interest in working for them.

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Writing a Captivating Cover Letter

You’ll want to ensure that you follow a format when writing a cover letter. Here’s how to make sure your cover letter captivates the reader:

Use a Professional Header

You’ll want to make sure that you use a sleek header for your cover letter. Typically, it should include your name, address, contact information, and date. Moreover, it should also include the name and designation of the recruiter, the company’s name, and address. Therefore, it’s vital to research the necessary information before you start penning your cover letter. If you can’t find the recruiter’s name online, you can address them as Sir or Madam in your letter. However, if you do this, make sure to sign off by writing “Yours Faithfully.”

In addition, remember to keep your header professional. Avoid using email addresses that may come off as juvenile or unprofessional. If you don’t have a suitable email address, create a new one. You should also refrain from using your current work address when sending cover letters.

Write a Compelling Opening Paragraph

We can’t overstate the importance of a compelling opening paragraph. The truth is most hiring managers don’t have enough time to read every single cover letter religiously. Therefore, most recruiters will read through your cover letter’s opening few lines to decide whether it’s worth a read. A compelling opening paragraph ensures that you captivate the reader’s attention, preventing them from moving onto another cover letter abruptly.

There are several strategies you can employ to ensure your opening is compelling. You could share how you’ve been following the company’s progress over an extended period. Likewise, you could also detail aspects about the company that piqued your interest.

Detail Your Accomplishments and Experience in the Body

The body of your cover letter is a perfect opportunity for you to detail your work experience and accomplishments. You can insert career stories that showcase your best attributes more enjoyably. Remember that a cover letter differentiates from a resume. Your cover letter should be more flavorful rather than reading like a list of achievements. Highlight your areas of expertise and demonstrate how you would be the perfect candidate for the job. In addition, show how you can add value to the organization by bringing something new to the table. The body of your cover letter is your time to shine, so use it wisely. However, ensure that you don’t come as braggadocios. Instead, you want your employer to know how your past work experience can contribute to their plans.

Demonstrate Your Eagerness to Join

While highlighting work experience and past accomplishments is an excellent idea, you also want to demonstrate your eagerness to join the organization. Therefore, it would serve you well to include some aspects about the company that you like – whether that’s the organization culture, the work environment, or anything else. The hiring manager will appreciate your interest and the research you’ve done on the company’s history. One of the easiest ways to show your interest is by selecting a company fact and explaining why you find it captivating.

Finishing Strong

Once you’ve followed all the steps above, it’s time to cap off your cover letter. Utilize the final paragraph to provide your offer to your prospective employer. Consider telling the hiring manager that you’re looking forward to meeting them and discussing how you can help the organization meet its goals.

Furthermore, ensure that you finish your cover letter with the appropriate formal closing. You’ll want to refrain from ending the letter informally. Instead, opt for a more professional ending, like “Yours Sincerely” or “Regards.”

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Gain an Edge with a Professionally Written Cover Letter

Writing cover letters can be challenging. Hence, you might want to consider utilizing a professional resume and cover letter service. We can help you draft an excellent cover letter that captivates the attention of the hiring manager.

Resume Professional Writers is a resume writing company. In addition to our professional resume writing services, we also offer LinkedIn profile writing services and CV writing services.

Visit our website for more information. Alternatively, you can also contact us to learn more about our services.

Categories: Blog, cover letter, Cover Letter Writing, resume, resume writers

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