Ask the Experts
Your questions answered
Is it okay to use a resume template I found online or should I start from scratch?
QUESTION: Is it okay to use a resume template I found online or should I start from scratch?Most companies use applicant tracking software (ATS) to process résumés. Most online templates use text boxes that cannot be processed by that software; so, you must save the...
I’ll have my bachelor’s degree in May; isn’t that enough to get a good job?
QUESTION: I’ll have my bachelor’s degree in May; isn’t that enough to get a good job?Not always, especially if you have a broad degree. Consider an internship that will offer you hands-on experience. Offer to work for free (if possible) as an intern if it's at a...
Should I post my resume on job boards like Indeed, The Ladders, and Monster?
QUESTION: Should I post my resume on job boards like Indeed, The Ladders, and Monster?Storing a résumé at a job-site is convenient for when applying, but the default privacy setting is usually set to “public.” You risk exposing your personal information, flooding your...
I do not have Microsoft Word on my computer. Do I have to have it for my job search? Can I just send everything in PDF? If not, why?
QUESTION: I do not have Microsoft Word on my computer. Do I have to have it for my job search? Can I just send everything in PDF? If not, why?When you upload your resume online it goes into an ATS (applicant tracking system). Of the 200+ different ATS currently in...
I have recently stepped down from leadership roles and now want a job without such responsibility. How do I overcome being viewed as “overqualified”?
QUESTION: I have recently stepped down from leadership roles and now want a job without such responsibility. How do I overcome being viewed as “overqualified”?It is certainly possible and would require a rebranding of your experience, skills, and other relevant...
Should I put outside activities or community service on my resume?
QUESTION: Should I put outside activities or community service on my resume?Listing board positions, sports, and community service activities can show that you're well-rounded, but if space is tight, list only those organizations in which you held a leadership role...
I heard that the top third of the resume is the most important? Why and what do I put there to have the most impact?
QUESTION: I heard that the top third of the resume is the most important? Why and what do I put there to have the most impact?Your resume must move the reader to action (aka call you for an interview). A strong positioning strategy includes 3 elements: 1) a branded...
Would you please share some of your favorite resume writing and job search resources?
QUESTION: Would you please share some of your favorite resume writing and job search resources?Many job search resources are job-specific; Google niche job boards in your field. Be careful choosing online resume writing help; many just want to draw you into paying...
What’s the best way to choose my references and how should I present them?
QUESTION: What’s the best way to choose my references and how should I present them?Your best references are people who can positively elaborate and validate your skills, work ethic, and achievements on the job. This person can be a direct manager, supervisor,...
It has been suggested I take a career assessment before I start my next job search. What will be the value in that?
QUESTION: It has been suggested I take a career assessment before I start my next job search. What will be the value in that?Career assessments can help you understand your professional needs and target professions and environments that play to your strengths and...
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