Today's average job seeker typically distributes and posts hundreds of copies of only 'one' resume version to encompass a diverse range of job opportunities. Although the job-seeker has exceptional expertise and superior 'highly portable' skills, inexplicably, the less than ambitious individual will only incorporate a few keywords from the job description in a cover letter to reinforce their qualifications. Similar to a glove, one size does not fit all! Employing this approach, the average resume (totally unrelated to the job description), will wind up in a large pile and ultimately, in a larger circular trash file.

Your Qualifications Must Be Visible

A recruiter or hiring manager is not an archaeologist. Placing the burden of deciphering and interpreting skills buried deep within resume content, in the hands of a busy recruiter or hiring manager, is a recipe for failure. Rapidly advancing technologies and radically different business models have influenced a paradigm shift in how resumes are submitted, reviewed, and the relevant content or keywords that will trigger a positive response for the candidate. Predicated on the technology and how a resume is ultimately screened, the intervention of a real 'human' may not take place until after the automated selection process.

To Get Noticed - Strategically Position Yourself

Since each job description has unique requirements, each resume submitted should conform to the job posting requirements. The fact is, hiring managers are highly selective and far more discriminating during difficult economic times. To be noticed, the job seeker must submit a resume that is 'relevant' and applicable for the specific opportunity. If the initial perception by the reader is, 'you're not qualified', your search methodology requires revisiting.

Is One Resume Sufficient?

How many resumes should a job-seeker prepare? The answer is predicated on the diversity of your skills, and willingness to embrace new market sectors. If you are targeting the same market or industry sector and similar job capacity, your existing resume should suffice with selective 'tailoring'. If applying for a position outside of your traditional market or industry, a 'new resume' should be crafted revising your image, qualifications, skills, and accomplishments. A resume must be highly relevant to the position, one that resonates a consistent track record of 'making a successful company even more successful'!

In Summary

In a rather challenging economic period with unemployment rates exceeding 10%, it is prudent and incumbent upon the job seeker to exploit every potential avenue and channel to ensure he or she is afforded with an 'edge'. In normal economic times, one resume (targeted for each job posting selected) would typically be sufficient. In a highly competitive and selective job market, embracing new market sectors and opportunities is a necessity as opposed to an option.

Tailoring a 'single' resume to comply with the requirements of each job description is quite a cumbersome, time-consuming, and exhausting task. It certainly is not the foundation for a cost-effective and efficient job search when your objective is to secure an interview before the competition.

Having multiple resume versions (each emphasizing a unique brand or portable skill), substantially expands your search potential and relevance to new market sectors. Of significant importance, it also streamlines the effort entailed with targeting your resume for each applicable position being applied for. According to former head football coach "Lou Holtz" - "Motivation is simple. You eliminate those who are not motivated".

Lenny Keitel runs Hudson Valley Resumes, a premier resume writing service with a penchant for crafting impressive resumes that inspire and motivate the hiring manager through its inspirational content, clarity, and visual appeal. We differentiate our clients with a unique "signature" or brand, positioning them a 'cut-above' other candidates. Our clients consistently project a superior level of self-confidence and positive image that sets them apart. Innovation, creative writing skills, and a competitive spirit underscore Lenny's tireless passion to help job seekers enhance their competitiveness and become top-quality candidates in today's challenging global economy.

Lenny Keitel
Hudson Valley Resumes
http://www.hudsonvalleyresumes.com