JOB SEEKERS

Some Pointers, On Us

ADVICE, TIPS AND RESOURCES FOR YOU

RESUME TIPS

1. Technical Summary
Effective technology resumes clearly show the candidate's technical skills-- a hiring manager shouldn't have to go fishing for this information. An excellent way to include technical knowledge is to add a Technical Summary/Skills matrix section to your resume. Break the section into subcategories so the reader can quickly scan through your knowledge of programs and applications. Possible categories include technical certifications, hardware, operating systems, networking/protocols, office productivity, programming/languages, Web applications and database applications. List only those programs/applications that you could confidently discuss in an interview.

2. Career Summary
Many technology hiring managers say they are searching for candidates who offer more than technical credentials. Soft skills such as interpersonal communications, ability to work collaboratively and commitment to achieving corporate goals are just as desirable. In other words, your resume needs a personality. The reader shouldn't be impressed only by your technical qualifications, but should also find you to be likeable and well-suited for the team. You can highlight some of these skills in this section.
Focus on Technical Results
Technology job candidates usually make one of two critical errors on their resumes -- either the document is excessively long with excruciating detail on every assignment ever completed, or too short with hardly any descriptions at all. There needs to be some middle ground -- the resume should be succinct yet effectively showcase your achievements.

3. What to Include
For each position you've held, give a brief synopsis of the scope of your responsibility. Then show how your performance benefited the company. Give examples of how past initiatives led to positive outcomes such as enhanced efficiency, faster time-to-market, monetary savings, etc. Accomplishments are most powerful when they are measurable, so include actual performance figures whenever possible. Focus on your most impressive technical projects/accomplishments. What types of challenges did you face? What did you do to overcome the challenges? How did your performance improve the organization's bottom line?

4. Keywords
The best keywords for your resume depend on your job target and experience. Specific programs and applications are often used as keywords, which is another reason a Skills Matrix is a good idea. To determine the best keywords for your industry, examine technology jobs posted on our site to see which credentials and skills are used frequently; these are potential keywords that should be incorporated into your resume.

INTERVIEW TIPS

1. Do Your Research
Researching the company before the interview and learning as much as possible about its services, products, customers and competition will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the company's needs.

2. Look Sharp
Depending on the industry and position, get out your best interview clothes and check them over for spots and wrinkles.

3. Be on Time
Never arrive late to an interview. Allow extra time to arrive early in the vicinity, allowing for factors like getting lost. Enter the building 10 to 15 minutes before the interview.

4. Show Enthusiasm
A firm handshake, smile and plenty of eye contact demonstrate confidence. Speak distinctly in a confident voice, even though you may feel shaky.

5. Listen
One of the most neglected interview skills is listening. Make sure you are not only listening, but also reading between the lines. Sometimes what is not said is just as important as what is said.

6. Answer the Question Asked
Candidates often don't think about whether they are actually answering the questions their interviewers ask. Make sure you understand what is being asked, and ask for further clarification if you are unsure.

7. Give Specific Examples
One specific example of your background is worth 50 vague stories. Try to prepare your stories before the interview. Give examples that highlight your successes and uniqueness. Your past behaviour can indicate your future performance.

8. Ask Questions
Many interviewees don't ask questions and miss the opportunity to find out valuable information. The questions you ask indicate your interest in the company or job.