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Navigating in Today's Job Market

If you’re a new or recent graduate, you are probably discovering that finding a career job is a full-time task, and that it requires know-how to navigate in today’s job market. There is hope, though, as many employers view the current job market as cautiously optimistic with the number of jobs available on the rise. Recruiters are even reviewing and screening candidates for future positions to get ahead of the talent curve. So what is the best way to inform employers of your credentials? The paper resumé is still an important tool in landing that initial interview but the Internet is taking a stronghold in the job marketplace as well.

The resumé: Be it a paper resumé or a cyber resumé, you want it to stand out in a crowded inbox. To do so, it should be clear and concise, tailored to fit the job description and the prospective employer’s needs.

Before you begin composing the text of your resumé, consider its tone. Most of us find it hard to brag about our accomplishments, but that’s exactly what a resumé is designed to do. Describing your strengths and triumphs without either false modesty or hyperbole takes some practice. Seek out comments from several experienced people to see how well you have succeeded.

Arrange the text in these major sections:

• Your qualifying skills, with specific examples.

• Your experience working in a successful team environment.

• Your education, technical training and related hands-on experience.

• Your employment history and how it illustrates your personal growth and increased responsibilities.

Use your computer to help you tailor each resumé to fit the job you’re applying for:

• Select the industries and job titles that fit your talents and background, and write a version for each of them.

• Confine your text to business information. Do not include personal data or hobbies.

Let a job search agent help do the work for you: Many employment Web sites now carry a special feature where you, the applicant, can carry out a job search agent online. This tool allows you to complete a profile that includes your specific job interests, competencies and experiences. The system then captures this information, searches the Web site, matches your interests with open positions and sends e-mails about newly available positions. This is a great way for employers to develop a relationship with you and for you to stay on top of new career opportunities as they arise. 

By the time you arrive for an interview, the resumé has already communicated to the recruiter that you have the basic requirements for the job. The interview gives both of you an opportunity to look at the intangibles: your presentation and style, and how well the organization’s culture fits your style.

Leave a lasting impression: If you believe there is a fit between you and the potential employer, there is more you can do to help land this dream job. One way to stand out in the crowd is to have samples of your work available for the employer to view. A great way to demonstrate your technical sophistication is to provide samples on a CD-Rom or create your own personal Web page.

May 23, 2002

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