Targeted Marketing Document – Applying Online & Your Resume
Another article highlighted three insights into how the online job search process works. One of these is to be sure that what you submit is targeted to the specific job you are applying for. It is not enough to “tweak” your résumé by adding a few keywords. You must ensure that it clearly presents your qualifications for the position. Think of it as a targeted marketing document. Here’s how:
Save the job description as an unformatted Word document. Video
Mark the items you know you can do. What items did you not mark, and why? Video
Develop six to 10 CAR stories that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. From these, create mini CAR stories for your résumé. Video
Create your targeted marketing document. Video– The professional summary at the top of your résumé is the overall statement of who you are as a professional and what you have to offer. The rest of the résumé is the proof that what you say about yourself in the summary is true.
– Review the job description—what requirements have you not addressed yet? Go back to your draft and add mini-CAR stories, a list of competencies, and/or information in your summary.
– Review the work experience in your résumé. Replace tasks and responsibilities with accomplishments and achievements. The CAR story process can help you with this. Quantify where possible. Is there anything in the work experience that is not relevant? Why is it there?
Does this take time? Yes, indeed. Of course, the next time you apply for a position online, it won’t take as long. You’ll continue to add to your library of CAR stories, which will benefit you in multiple ways.
Contact Debra Frankeat 215-991-3582 or franke@lasalle.edu to discuss your job search, career transition, or other career-related questions, concerns, or goals.