In a recent column for InformationWeek, Wayne Brown offered some tips to professionals looking to find a job in the IT channel. He used his 14 years as an IT executive sitting on search committees and reviewing countless resumes to provide expertise when it comes to what businesses are looking for and how you can make your resume stand out among the stack on the table.
In many instances, Brown said that a resume only has a few minutes to make an initial impression and reach the second round where it will get a more in-depth look. That is why some simple changes can make all the difference. These include:
- Write for the job you want – Much like the advice given when it comes to how you dress, resumes should be written for the job you want, not the one you have. Instead of filling the document with details of what you do, write about how your skills will translate to the new role.
- Avoid jargon – You do not know who is reading the resume and even if you can speak intelligently on any IT topic, the search committee or HR person making the first cut may not understand what you are talking about. Be able to speak with everyone.
- Be concise and substantive – Get to the point of your skills and experience. Include accomplishments and the results of those as much as possible.
- Don't forget the basics – It may seem silly, but businesses need to make sure they do not forget the basics like formatting, clarity, consistency, spelling and grammar.
Finding a new IT job can be difficult, but it is possible. VAR Staffing helps match solution providers with the impactful talent needed in this age of business operations.
