We currently live in a time when technology rules. We can create and run a business from the comfort of our home, and many times human interaction is sacrificed for the accessibility and ease of the internet. Many of us do our job seeking online and rarely step out into the world and physically go to the places we would like to work for. I am a firm believer that by meeting an applicant in person I can get a sense of their personality and can assess whether or not they can become an asset to the company. Now, turning in a resume in person may not be as easy as dropping it off. Here are some do’s and don’ts when meeting a potential employer and submitting your resume.
DO Print your resume in a nice, medium to lightweight colorless paper. Refrain from any gimmick such as bright colors, crazy fonts or bold letters. Keep it simple, professional and to the point.
DON’T Make your resume longer than one page. Unless you are applying for a position in upper management or corporate, you must limit the information provided to fit one page. Only include information that is directly related to the position you are applying for and keep it as current as possible. A long and “fluffy” resume is more likely to be dismissed and shredded.
DO Provide an attractive cover letter with your resume. Make sure the letter is specifically for the company you are submitting your resume. Being vague is not encouraged. Give specific reasons why you are interested in working for the company and a brief summary of the skills you may possess that make you a great candidate. A successful cover letter is one to two paragraphs long containing only a few concise sentences.
DON’T Include references that lack professional merit. All of your references should be aware that you have included them in your application and should hold reputable positions. Refrain from submitting friends and acquaintances that may have never witnessed your work etiquette. A great reference is a person you have worked for or alongside at a previous position and they have seen you grow and can vouch that the skills you mentioned in your resume are accurate.
DO Ask to see the manager when submitting your resume. They might not be available at the moment, but if they are, they will be more than welcome to come out and chat with you for a minute or two. Always shake their hand firmly, introduce yourself and tell them why you would like to work for them. Keep it brief and friendly, yet professional. Make sure you look your best and if you can, try to incorporate the company’s brand image into your look.
DON’T Provide contact info that lacks professionalism. We all have that fun email address we created for our social media persona or that witty voicemail message that makes your friends laugh. No matter how clever or funny you might think it is, it has no place in your resume. Create an email address that is your name [not a nickname] and log in often in case the employer contacts you. Make sure your voicemail is brief, polite and includes your name.
Applying these few quick tips on how to give a great first impression may be what pushes your resume to the top of the pile. Even if you have submitted an online application and/or resume, it is nice to take the time and visit your potential employer. A resume can be edited numerous times to reach near perfection, but a physical interaction is in the moment and cannot be coerced. The employer will also appreciate your dedication and willingness to take the time out of your day to pay a visit.
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