Maybe your gap in employment wasn't as bad as this fellow's (I don't think there's much I can do for him)—but it's an issue I very often encounter with my clients. It may be an extended period of unemployment, a return to work from family leave, or a move from current employment back to an earlier career. Whatever the reason, well-constructed resumes can help to address gaps effectively. Try these tips Here are some quick tips from career experts, which I have used myself: Create what’s called a “hybrid” résumé, which includes both your skills and your job history. Start out with the transferable skills you can offer a employer and examples of your most notable and relevant accomplishments, rather than with your chronological job history. Use terms that are most relevant to the jobs you are applying for, not so much those of your past positions. Describe volunteer or temp work, special projects, training courses, memberships or self-improvement during … [Read more...]
“You oughta be in pictures …”
The classic 1934 song was never more true than it is today for social media. As a résumé writer, I help many people develop content for their LinkedIn profiles and Facebook pages, and I always recommend that people get a professional “headshot” to show who they are. I understand the concern some may have about identity theft. But if you choose to use social media to market yourself or your business (and you should—see some stats below), you are shortchanging yourself by not including a photo to show the world who they would be hiring. Most professional photographers don’t charge huge amounts for this—I paid $175 for a sitting and a disc with my photo on it—and it adds to the “story” you create about who you are and what you have to offer your prospects. If you can’t afford it, then spiff up and find a friend who will take your picture against a neutral, uncluttered background. And using bad photos can hurt you almost as much as not using one at all. Don’t use your latest Facebook … [Read more...]
Fran’s Blog: Free Association
Hello! I'm Fran Fahey. Welcome to my blog, "Free Association." I find that occasionally, I want to share ideas with other small business folks and resume clients that I find interesting. As a copywriter and editor, I hope my words will have some practical use once they are floating out there in the ether. If not, maybe you'll just read them for light entertainment or to get to sleep at night. Either way, I look forward to hearing from you. Best wishes and happy reading. © 2014 Fran Fahey www.fransfineediting.com … [Read more...]