Using Your Resume For More Than Just Job Boards

May 26, 2015

customizeOftentimes when people think of applying for jobs, one of the first things that comes to their mind is job boards. These online resources have become a staple when it comes to employment. Not only is this where many employers turn to post available openings, it is where job seekers go on the hunt to find viable opportunities. But if this is the only way you’re getting your resume into the hands of potential employers, you are missing out on other chances. Your resume can be used as a valuable tool in other ways as well.



  • Participate In Job Fairs

Not only is this a great way of distributing your resume, it also allows you to make face-to-face connections. You typically don’t have long, but it can be a way to get your foot in the door and make a positive impression on a hiring manager. Make sure that your resume has a clear focus and marketing message so that employers get a better idea of where you might fit in at their company. Should they have an opening that matches your skills and abilities, your information is right there in their hands.



  • Apply Directly To The Company

Not every company posts job openings on every job board site. Or they may wait and post on their own company site first. If there is an employer that you are particularly interested in, check back frequently with their site to see if there are relevant openings. This can also save you the time and hassle of paging through hundreds of openings on a broader search site. As you peruse their job openings, also take time to look at other pages on the site and get a better feel for the company. This can allow you to tailor your resume and cover letter more effectively to their culture and what the company is looking for in candidates.



  • Make Use Of Your Network Of Connections

Leverage the professional and personal relationships that you have built over the years. If friends and family know you are looking, provide them with a copy of your resume in case they have contacts who may be interested. They may serve as a strong reference and be able to get your resume into the right hands. It will also give them something to refer to if they hear of an opening to see if it matches what you are looking for.



  • Make The Most Of LinkedIn

Your LinkedIn profile should strongly resemble your resume. Use the added features to upload supporting documents, get references from colleagues or former employers, and land endorsements for your strongest skills. Optimizing your LinkedIn profiles allows employers to search for you while you also search for them. And it is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so they can access your information at any time. Ensuring that the hard copy and online copy of your resume are cohesive provides for a more uniform impression if they do ask you to submit your resume.

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