The last few posts here at Life Compass have been career-related, and the next few will continue on that theme. This might seem curious for some readers who are used to other “lifestyle design” sites that mostly talk about how to be independently wealthy, live like a rockstar and travel the world.
Don’t worry – if that’s your dream, we’ll cover topics that’ll help you get there…like how to start your own business full or part-time, and how to take bold action to achieve your dreams.
But for many, their dream life isn’t about self-employment necessarily, but about doing the work they love and creating more balance, freedom, and fulfillment in their life and work. For many, their lifestyle design plan may include switching jobs or careers. So that is a topic that we’ll definitely talk about here, too.
A friend mine at FreeMoneyFinance recently shared some tips on the best techniques for writing a resume. His post, and the comments that followed, got me thinking about a bigger question related to resumes:
How to get your resume noticed, and how to keep it from ending up on the “resume pile of death” with the other 500 resumes the company has just received.
One thing that will set you apart from the others is creativity in how you deliver or package your resume.
Here are three creative tips to get your resume opened first:
- Send it via Priority Mail or FedEx. Sure it’ll cost you more, but your resume will get attention immediately.
- Send it in a unique package – one that fits the industry or company, somehow relates to a benefit you’ll bring to the company, or creatively expresses the reasons why you want to work for them. This won’t apply to everyone, but if it does for you, use it. For example, if you’re applying to a food service company, send your resume in one of their food containers (clean, preferably!), and put a “new and improved” banner across the top.
- Send it in an oversized package, or put something “lumpy” in the package. Lumpy mail creates intrigue. (And sadly, in today’s environment, it can also create fear – so I’d stay away from using any white, powdery substances!) You might include a few mints and a note that says, “I know some job candidates can leave a bad taste in your mouth during the hiring process, but I won’t. Here’s why….” Then list three bullet points on why they’ll want to talk to you.
It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway…you can get as creative as you want in getting your resume at the top of the heap – and these techniques will certainly help…but once that door is open, you’ve got to be prepared for a great interview by phone or in person. If you missed yesterday’s post on How to Get a Competitive Edge at Your Next Job Interview, click here.
Do you have any other ideas on how to get your resume opened first? Please share your comments.
Speak Your Mind