Successful Resume Writing & Job Interview Tips

How many people enjoy writing a resume? Not many. And what about job interviewing? Again, not many. Job interviews can make you feel uncomfortable because interviews are designed to treat you as if you're a product that needs to be checked out like the tire of a new car. Secondly, resume writing is tough because it serves as a marketing tool - - an advertisement of who you are. Through my survey of job seekers, the majority have clearly indicated that the toughest part about job searching is writing a resume and interviewing. What if the hiring company, or interviewer, doesn't buy what you're marketing or selling? nHere are my top 5 tips for creating a “success story resume” and exuding confidence in the interview: nn1) When you create your resume, be sure to do research and find examples of resumes in your industry. What are key trends? How are others presenting themselves on paper? What is the most effective format to present your skills? Look for ways to further enhance your skills on paper. nn2) Create a resume that showcases the RESULTS of your actions and achievements. Make your resume an exciting portrait of your capabilities - - don’t just list your job description. Most interviewers want to know how your skills will transfer into their company and so, you need to convey this clearly in your resume. nn3) To increase your confidence in job interviews, recognize that the first impression is formed in the first few minutes of contact. This may seem unfair, however, this is still good information to know in advance. Your knowledge gives you power and a sense of control. The most important thing is to take a deep breath before you shake the interviewer's hand. Relax, look the interviewer squarely in the eye, and smile. Your muscle memory will now kick in and make a mental note that you're not in danger. The interviewer will be put at ease and your first impression will be professional and composed. nn4) Check out your interviewer's surroundings so you can find helpful cues and signs. Even if the interviewer has brought you to a generic conference room for the interview, he or she will still provide cues or signs to help you connect. What is the interviewer wearing? If you're in the interviewer's office, what pictures are on the desk? What certificates are on the wall? Look around as you are seated so you can begin to make that human connection with this person. . Every job interviewer will provide you with keys to succeeding within the interview. If you check out their voice and behavior you'll begin to see a pattern that emerges. Your awareness of these physical cues will help you see that this interviewer is simply an individual who wants to share a conversation with you. nn5) Don't leave without asking some questions. I'd recommend taking mental notes of a few things that you hear during the interview so that you can bring up a related comment or question at the end. Yes, of course, you should have prepared a few questions to ask prior to arriving. But, be sure to double back to something the interviewer has said during the interview. In this way, you will be able to reinforce the connection which has been created.