resumesos

What Not to do While Writing Your Professional Resume

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 09:53:02 GMT

What Not to do While Writing Your Professional Resume

Let’s face it, reworking your resume every time you’re hunting for a job can be a huge headache; it’s tedious, time-consuming, and even the smallest mistake could cost you an interview. If you’re thinking about making a career change, go over your resume with a fine-tooth comb before sending it out. Better yet, have it looked over by the professionals at ResumeSOS.com. They've seen countless resumes that have potential, but small errors are holding them back. Consider the following things to avoid when updating your resume:

One-Size-Fits-All: Sending out a general, one-size-fits-all resume to potential employers is never a good idea; it shows that you’re desperate. This type of resume also shows potential employers that you didn’t even bother to take the time to tailor your resume to the job you're applying for, so why hire you in the first place?
Focusing On Duties: Focusing on the duties you were tasked with at previous jobs rather than the things you accomplished while working there isn't a good idea. Employers want to hire people who have met achievable goals, not just their typical daily duties.
Being Long-Winded: There’s a fine line between being descriptive and being too descriptive. It’s OK to be detailed on your job history and objectives, but don’t write a novel that will wind up in the trash. Unfortunately, there are no hard and fast rules for resume length, but an average of two pages is a good place to start.

Following these simple tips gives you a great start on updating your resume. If want your resume to truly stand out, it's best to hire a professional resume writer. Contact the career coaching experts from ResumeSOS.com today at (585) 383-0350 or visit them online.

Set Yourself Apart With a Professional Resume by ResumeSOS.com

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 09:51:42 GMT

Set Yourself Apart With a Professional Resume by ResumeSOS.com

When you’re out on the job hunt, you’re essentially selling yourself, and your resume is your most important marketing tool. It speaks for you before you have the chance to speak for yourself; it opens doors when you think you can’t find a way in. Resumes can be tricky, however, and sometimes you just don’t know where to start. That’s where ResumeSOS.com can help.

The experienced writers at ResumeSOS.com discuss the three top reasons to invest in yourself with their professional resume services:

Highly Specialized: In today’s hyper-competitive job market, a cookie-cutter template resume simply will not cut it. Your professional skills and experience deserve a well-crafted resume worthy of your skills.

Top-Notch Writing: You’re a qualified candidate with a quiver full of specialties and strengths—but maybe writing isn’t one of them. If writing is not your forte, leave it to the team of professionals at ResumeSOS.com. They’re certified in resume writing services and employ engaging language to make your skills leap off the page.

Professionally Polished: Nothing kills your chances like a resume riddled with typos and bad grammar. Just as you wouldn’t go to a job interview with a stain on your shirt, you shouldn’t submit resumes that aren’t showcasing your potential. Let a professional resume writer help.

ResumeSOS.com is a nationally recognized company providing professional resume services to thousands of clients in a broad range of professions. To learn more about what resume writing services can do for your career, call (585) 383-0350 or visit their website.

Top 4 Benefits Of Interview Coaching With ResumeSOS.com

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 09:29:44 GMT

Top 4 Benefits Of Interview Coaching With ResumeSOS.com

First impressions are vital, especially in the work world.When you go in for an interview with a potential employer, you want to be prepared, feel confident, and ultimately, get hired by an employer that’s a good fit with your values, style, and goals. That’s why ResumeSOS.com offers interview coaching sessions.We understand that you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Our strong track record of positive client feedback demonstrates the many benefits that interview coaching offers. Plus, candidates who participate in interview coaching gain confidence and skills that are valuable well beyond an employment offer.

Interview Coaching offers you the opportunity to:

Gain Confidence. For a job seeker, one of the scariest aspects of interviewing is the fear of being asked tough questions that may throw you off and challenge your ability to answer in a way that shows you at your best.The interview coaching process will help you move beyond this fear and gain confidence in your ability to effectively address any question an interviewer may throw at you.

Be Prepared. The best way to walk into an interview feeling confident and self-assured is to be prepared. The ResumeSOS.com Interview Coaching process will help you take stock of what you have to offer a prospective employer and share tips and tools to assist you in presenting yourself in the best possible way to achieve a job offer. It’s equally important for you to be aware of current developments and any challenges facing your prospective employer. We’ll share tips on how to research prospective employers and how to pick up on subtle cues about the work culture of your targeted prospects.

Impress with the Best. Positively impressing the interviewer is also about the fine art of communication; distinguishing yourself from other candidates without sounding boastful or criticizing others, and learning how to say “enough” without saying “too much.” You’ll also learn about how to ace a telephone or online interview, and we’ll share tips on personal presentation ~ attitude, appearance (including body language) and articulation.

Interview the Interviewer. A job interview is also a unique opportunity for you to gather information on whether your prospective employer is really the kind of organization you would like to join.Interview Coaching offered by ResumeSOS.com will help you learn to capitalize on opportunities during the interview to ask appropriate questions to assist in your decision-making process.

Enhance Lifelong Skills. Interview Coaching can help refine your communication skills and teach you how to interact with prospective employers at all levels and in many settings (for example, in group settings or over meals) that will serve you well beyond the interview process.

Whether you’re already scheduled for an interview or need to gain the confidence and skills to start the job search process, ResumeSOS.com can help by offering you valuable Interview Coaching.

To schedule your interview coaching session, contact the professionals at ResumeSOS.com today by calling (585) 383-0350. You can also visit their website to learn about the other career prep services they offer.

Job Interview Tips From The Experts at ResumeSOS.com

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 09:08:08 GMT

Job Interview Tips From The Experts at ResumeSOS.com

A professional resume will help you get the interview, but then what? Getting your foot in the door is a great start, but it’s only part of being hired. At ResumeSOS.com in Rochester, NY, we want you to have all the tools you need to succeed in the hiring process. Consider these helpful job interview tips on the skills and techniques you'll need to impress potential employers.

Preparation: One of the most important aspects of an interview, either in person or via telephone, is that you need to do the research! Going into an interview with knowledge of the position you’re applying for is key. You should know what type of candidate the employer is looking for and should be able to discuss these requirements in depth. It's also helpful to understand what challenges the employer faces and how you can help address those challenges in this new role. Also, be sure to look your best.
Presentation: How you present yourself to potential employers will help make or break your interview. Stepping into the door relaxed, but alert, will show confidence. Offer a firm handshake and maintain eye contact from the moment you enter the room. If it makes you feel more comfortable, bring along a notepad for reference during the interview, and don’t be afraid to answer any tough questions honestly; don’t just tell them what they want to hear.
Post Interview: A day or two after the interview, contact the employer to follow up and thank them for the opportunity. This is also a great chance to reiterate your strong points and fill in any gaps you think might have occurred during the interview.

For more helpful interview or resume writing tips, contact ResumeSOS.com today at (585) 383-0350. They’ll help you navigate every step of the employment process, so visit them online to see a complete list of job interview and resume services.

Professional Resume Writers Explain The Importance of Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 09:01:05 GMT

Professional Resume Writers Explain The Importance of Filling Out Your LinkedIn Profile

ResumeSOS.com is an invaluable resource for your career search. Offering a variety of services ranging from resume writing and interview tips to career coaching, these career transition specialists can help you land the position that you've always wanted, no matter what the job may be. Whether you want that upcoming promotion or you're applying at a new company, let the career experts at ResumeSOS.com get you the assistance that you need to advance in your field.

Don't use LinkedIn? ResumeSOS.com can help you get started. These career transition professions are trained in building LinkedIn profiles, meaning they can create the content for your page to appeal to potential recruiters in order to increase your chances of standing out among other job candidates. If you have a LinkedIn profile, check out these three reasons to optimize your profile:

Be Visible to Recruiters: A majority of recruiters use LinkedIn to find talent. A well-written, fully completed LinkedIn profile dramatically increases the chances your name will pop-up in a recruiter search.
Build Your Professional Network: Whether you're actively looking for a new position or seeking to cultivate new business opportunities in your current role, LinkedIn provides a platform for expanding your network. Whether locally or globally, LinkedIn can connect you with other professionals with similar interests and you can use LinkedIn to start conversations with people you may not be able to access through conventional channels.
Advance Your Brand / Build Your Professional Reputation: By Joining industry groups and engaging in conversations, you raise your profile among fellow professionals. You can post articles you have written, share content posted by others, and comment on posts that you see. All of these activities improve the chances that you'll be noticed, whether by a recruiter or a potential sales lead.

While LinkedIn is an important asset to your professional profile, a traditional resume with a well-written cover letter is still essential to your success as a job candidate. Increase your chances of being hired today by calling ResumeSOS.com at (585) 383-0350, or visit their website for more information.

Sharpen Your Interview Skills With Interview Simulations From ResumeSOS.com

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 08:52:26 GMT

Sharpen Your Interview Skills With Interview Simulations From ResumeSOS.com

As the job market has changed over the past decade, so has the nature of job interviews. Modern interviews can be an intimidating process for the job seeker unsure of what to expect and eager to make the right impression.

Through interview simulation, ResumeSOS.com allows clients to participate in a practice job interview with a career coach introducing them to the process they will be exposed to in a real-world job interview. ResumeSOS.com’s expert staff provides job interview tips, advising on what to expect from interviewers, the nature and difficulty of the questions asked, and how best to anticipate and answer them.

The simulation sessions, which are recorded for post-interview review and provided to the client to keep, also help clients reduce anxiety and help them gain confidence for the real thing by sharpening their interview skills. ResumeSOS.com also provides customers with a book on job interview preparation authored by its Managing Partner, Arnie Boldt.

In order to learn more about the benefits of interview simulation, contact ResumeSOS.com at (585) 383-0350, or visit them online.

Take Advantage of Career Coaching From ResumeSOS.com

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 08:44:50 GMT

Take Advantage of Career Coaching From ResumeSOS.com

Your life’s path isn’t set in stone. Sometimes it may feel like you’re on a treadmill, heading nowhere, but the truth of the matter is, it can all change in the blink of an eye. One small decision can alter the course of your life for better or for worse. When it comes to your career, you don’t have to be stuck in a dead-end job. With career coaching from ResumeSOS.com, you can learn how to achieve your dream career.

For some people, a steady career path is a dream come true. For other individuals, a stable career can quickly become boring and make you feel like there is nowhere to go. No matter which category you maybe in, if you’ve been in a career for years and change has suddenly come to your life, you can benefit from help from ResumeSOS.com . Changing your job, whether because you had no choice or because you made the decision yourself, can leave you in the lurch. Don’t face the change alone.

It’s not easy to figure out what to do next when you’ve been waking up and heading to the same job day in and day out. Instead of jumping into the first job and career you find, call ResumeSOS.com to help you figure out what would be the best next opportunity for you based on your skills and current interests.

Career coaching from ResumeSOS.com can be conducted via telephone or virtually. Career transition experts help you identify what you're best at and then focus on developing real-world strategies and skills for professional success. They help prepare you to meet new job search challenges with confidence and strength.

Call ResumeSOS.com at (585) 383-0350 to talk to a career coach today. They can also help you with job interview tips and resume services so that you can get the job of your dreams. Visit them online now to learn more .

Experts at ResumeSOS.com Recommend Enhancing Your Professional Resume With A LinkedIn Profile

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 08:38:41 GMT

Experts at ResumeSOS.com Recommend Enhancing Your Professional Resume With A LinkedIn Profile

When you're searching for a job, it's in your best interest to utilize all the resources that are at your fingertips. Social media may very well be the easiest approach to begin with, as it's the most accessible. The experts at ResumeSOS.com recommend that in addition to having a professional resume and a carefully crafted cover letter, you should completely populate your LinkedIn profile. ResumeSOS.com has helped thousands of job seekers attain their career goals, so you can trust their advice when they say that an up-to-date online professional profile benefits both job seekers and employers.

Having a completed online profile allows you to control how you're perceived by prospective employers. Taking the time to optimize your LinkedIn profile reflects your dedication and effort. Keeping it updated also shows that you continue to prioritize your career.

Being online also opens up networking opportunities. By connecting with other professionals from your past, you're increasing your chances for future employment. With over 400 million members, LinkedIn can efficiently get you in contact with the right people.

As important as it is, your online profile is not a substitute for a professional resume or a well-written cover letter; those two are paramount, and if you need assistance with these, ResumeSOS.com can help. They not only offer professional resume writing services and cover letter help, but they also provide career coaching and interview preparation. For more information about how ResumeSOS.com can help you achieve your career goals, visit their website , or call them today at (585) 383-0350.

Discover Your Ideal Career Path With Career Coaching & Assessment Services From ResumeSOS.com

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 08:32:41 GMT

Discover Your Ideal Career Path With Career Coaching & Assessment Services From ResumeSOS.com

Whether you’re about to graduate from college or are considering a career change, let the professionals at Rochester, NY-based ResumeSOS.com help you find your path. ResumeSOS.com has over two decades of experience in career coaching, and their professional resume writers and career transition coaches are experienced in helping job seekers land the career of their dreams.

If you’re on the lookout for a new job or are a young professional and have yet to discover which career path is right for you, the experts at ResumeSOS.com know just how to help. To help job seekers better identify where they fit within the workplace, ResumeSOS.com offers complete career coaching services, including a personalized career assessment. Their professional career assessment will help you better understand your interests and identify marketable skills that employers are looking for.

The career coaching doesn’t stop there, however. After identifying which career paths are best suited to you, your coach will help you write a professional resume and cover letter and will even coach you on interview techniques to help you stand out from the crowd at your next job interview. ResumeSOS.com has one goal in mind: to provide the highest-quality career transition services to motivated job seekers, and that’s just what you’ll get with their personalized career coaching services.

To schedule your complimentary consultation and to see how career assessment services from ResumeSOS.com can help you land your dream job, give them a call today at (585) 383-0350. To learn more about career coaching, professional resume writing, or for interview tips, visit their website .

Career Professionals at ResumeSOS.com Explain Why Professional Networking is Important

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 08:24:20 GMT

Career Professionals at ResumeSOS.com Explain Why Professional Networking is Important

Why do you need to be on LinkedIn? Consider these key reasons, according to the career experts at ResumeSOS.com:

Making Business Connections: While connecting with coworkers and colleagues may not seem important, it's one of the most crucial aspects of professional development. When you build relationships at work, you'll form lifelong bonds that you can leverage as your career develops and advances.

Staying Connected: Professional networking, especially online, is an important way to be "in the know" with current trends, news, and job openings in your field. Increasing your presence and maintaining your connections with past colleagues will help you achieve your short and long-term goals.

Job Leads: How will you hear about a job opening if you don't know anyone in the department? It doesn't matter what industry you work in; the best way to land a job is to know someone that's already on the inside.

Brand Awareness: The more active you are on LinkedIn (and in face-to-face networking settings), the more people in your network are aware of you and the unique value you offer. You'll hear about new jobs, make new connections, and pave the way for career success.

ResumeSOS.com is an invaluable resource for job seekers. Specializing in resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters, and interviews, co-founders Arnold G. Boldt and Gail Smith Boldt have spent more than 20 years helping job candidates land new positions or promotions that advance their careers. Whether you need job interview coaching or a professional resume writer to craft a resume and LinkedIn profile to get you noticed, ResumeSOS.com is your go-to source for comprehensive assistance.

For more tips, contact the career professionals at ResumeSOS.com by calling (585) 383-0350. Visit them online for details, and follow them on Facebook for help finding your dream job.

5 Tips for Creating a Professional Resume

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:52:43 GMT

5 Tips for Creating a Professional Resume

If you are looking for a job in a new industry, it’s vital to create a professional resume for the job hunt. It’s usually the first point of contact with prospective employers and can make the difference in whether or not they pursue you as a candidate. ResumeSOS.com, located in Rochester, is one the country’s leading companies in career coaching and professional resume writing.

According to Managing Partner and Certified Professional Resume Writer, Arnie Boldt, these tips will help you to create an effective resume:

Simple & Organized: Make sure you aren’t overloading the employer with a high volume of information. Use bullet points instead of paragraphs, include the most recent 10-15 years of work experience, and lead with a summary that makes a powerful statement about your brand. You should use a simple, legible font and an appropriate amount of white space.
Contact Information: Make sure you include a daytime phone number (with voice mail or an answering machine set up to capture calls), a personal e-mail address that should be a version of your first and last name, and a link to your LinkedIn profile. It's no longer necessary to include a mailing address, but still acceptable if you choose to do so. Be sure that the greeting on your voice mail / answering machine is professional sounding and will create a positive impression with callers.
Job Details: When listing your experience, list your most recent position at the top, followed by the next previous, and so on. Include the job title, company, and the dates that you were employed. If you’ve had gaps in your job history, it might be a good idea to highlight your acquired skills in the experience section before listing specific jobs.
Highlight Your Accomplishments: Many people focus on listing job responsibilities instead of accomplishments. Start with one or two sentences describing your general duties followed by bullet points that demonstrate your accomplishments. Begin each bullet point with an action verb that describes what you did; be sure to include measurable results whenever possible that show how you were successful in achieving a goal on a particular project or in solving a problem. Examples of legitimate accomplishments include leading a project team, implementing new strategies, or saving your employer money. Employers want to see how you’ve gone above and beyond routine duties to improve things for the company and/or its customers.
Cater To Your Industry: Your resume should reflect skills and experience in the industry where you are applying. Highlight skills and achievements that are relevant to the position you are targeting. If you have additional jobs that aren't relevant or you ran out of space, let the reader know you can provide further information upon request or add a URL to your LinkedIn profile—this useful social media site is used by most employers and is a great place to expand upon your skill set.

Creating a professional resume is the first step to landing interviews that will lead to the job you’ve always wanted, so make sure to invest the time and effort to put your best foot forward. If you are looking for someone who can offer top-notch resume writing, interview preparation, and career transition coaching, visit the experts from ResumeSOS.com in Rochester online, or call (585) 383-0350 today.

Thinking of Changing Careers? Career Coaching Services Can Help You Decide What's Right For You

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:39:37 GMT

Thinking of Changing Careers? Career Coaching Services Can Help You Decide What's Right For You

Starting a new career can be scary, but it can often be the best change of your life. If you’re worried about finding a new job or you’re lacking confidence in your ability to secure a job, look for helpful professionals that offer career coaching. ResumeSOS.com, based in Rochester, NY, offers a variety of services designed to help you jump-start your new career. From resume writing to job interview tips and more, their experienced staff will help make your transition to a new career smooth and stress-free.

Before you begin applying to jobs in a new career field, it is best to form a tight grasp on your professional goals and needs. It’s time to figure out what jobs you’re right for at the moment and to develop a plan for further skill development. The knowledgeable professionals at ResumeSOS.com will help you determine what career choices would be ideal for you, depending on your current education and experience, and will help you make plans to enhance your resume in order to achieve the position you desire. They offer career assessment and career coaching services to assist you, identifying obstacles you may have and creating solutions for your success.

After you’ve decided on a new career path, you have to craft a new resume and cover letter, highlighting important skills for your ideal job. ResumeSOS.com’s professional resume writers will help you create a resume that grabs the attention of potential employers as well as cover letters to impress hiring managers. They even offer workshops to enhance your interview skills so you can land your next big job.

Start a new career today with the help of professional career coaches. The staff at ResumeSOS.com provides you with all the career coaching, resume writing, and cover letter services you need to transition into a new career. For more information about their services, call (585) 383-0350, or visit their website today.

3 Reasons to Update Your Professional Resume in September

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:32:03 GMT

3 Reasons to Update Your Professional Resume in September

September represents the end of the summer and a time when many people apply for jobs. Because of this, Career Directors International (CDI) has proclaimed September as the “International Update Your Resume Month!” Even if you aren’t actively seeking work, here’s why you should review and refine your professional resume.

What Are Some Benefits of Updating Your Professional Resume?

1. Prepares You for Promotions

If a new position opens up at work, an up-to-date resume gives you an edge over the competition. Not only does it allow you to throw your name in the hat early, but it ensures the product looks clean and polished.

Suppose there’s only a short window of time when applications can be submitted. If you’re unprepared, you may end up turning in a document that looks rushed and cobbled together.

2. Maintains Relevancy

professional resumeSkills and professional resumes themselves are not immune to trends. What was important a few years ago may no longer be relevant.

For example, years ago, objective statements and personal stories were compelling, but today, they look like filler. Even a detail as basic as a full home address can make your resume seem dated. Use this month to catch up on what’s standard in the modern job market and adjust the information accordingly.

3. Clarifies Career Objectives & Goals

Updating your professional resume allows you to revisit what you want from your career. It’s common for people to get comfortable in a position they’ve been at for a few years.

Although your current title may look nice on paper, it may not be your ultimate dream job. Take some time this September to think about whether your work aligns with your future goals and personal values.

If you need to update your professional resume, get in touch with Arnold Smith Associates in Rochester, NY. They’ve helped people across various industries hone their resume writing and job interview skills for more than 25 years. Whether you’re a factory worker, an academic, or climbing the corporate ladder, they can help. For more information about their resume services, visit their website or call (585) 383-0350 today.

3 Reasons to Keep Your LinkedIn® Profile Updated

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:14:10 GMT

3 Reasons to Keep Your LinkedIn® Profile Updated

LinkedIn® brings together more than 706 million professionals looking to enhance their careers, network, and explore further opportunities in the jobs marketplace. A LinkedIn profile is your virtual resume, and it needs to be regularly updated with job changes, new skillsets, and other recent information so that you can stay properly connected. Here’s more about why this task is necessary.

Why You Need an Updated LinkedIn Profile

1. Be Seen

Whether you're looking to break into a new career, launch a new product or service, or are searching for new clients, visibility is a major component of success. If you've ever used a search engine to look up someone's name, you've likely seen that one of the top hits is that person's LinkedIn profile.

Because of its size and scope, LinkedIn dominates Google® search rankings. By posting a profile and keeping it updated with the latest information on your work, history, and skills, you’re increasing visibility in search results.

2. Build Connections

LinkedIn profilesLinkedIn ensures the right people find you. These connections are vital to building working relationships.

For instance, when a recruiter is looking to hire, they can conduct a search for job seekers with specific skills in a specific geographic area. You can also search for and reach out to potential business clients who may benefit from your services or products. Routinely updating a profile makes sure your connections have the latest details about what you bring to the table.

3. Grow a Brand

Personal branding positions you as an authority in your industry. It attracts clients and presents you as an experienced, trustworthy professional.

A LinkedIn profile offers some valuable opportunities for building a brand. Constantly update your client list to further cement the value of a service or product and impress potential customers.

Refresh your business summary and resume to include new services or products or recently acquired training or education. Use LinkedIn's blog publishing platform, Pulse, to keep contacts informed, educated, and entertained.

If you want to update and improve your LinkedIn profile, contact Arnold Smith Associates in Rochester, NY. They can design a profile that optimally positions you in front of your target audience. Since 1994, they’ve helped clients throughout North America find fulfilling work and career advancement. They also provide resume writing, job interview coaching, and career counseling to take you to new heights of success. Visit them online to learn more about the company, or call (585) 383-0350 to schedule an initial consultation.

Don't Forget to Say, "Thanks!" Tips for Writing Thank You Notes After a Job Interview

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:58:41 GMT

Don't Forget to Say, "Thanks!" Tips for Writing Thank You Notes After a Job Interview

Your professional resume may have landed you an interview, but what about securing the job? While there’s no way to guarantee any given interview will lead to an offer, there are measures you can take to make a positive impression. One of the simplest ways to stand out from the crowd is by sending the interviewer a handwritten thank you note. Here’s how to get started.

How to Write Professional Thank You Notes

1. Open With a Reminder

Chances are the interviewer has already seen a handful of candidates, so you’ll want to remind them who you are. You can do so gracefully by opening with a simple statement that includes the date of the meeting and the job position. If the interviewer can’t place your name, they can refer to the notes from the meeting on that day.

2. Address Key Points

professional resumeThe body of the note should reiterate the key points discussed during the interview. Address personal elements you talked about, like where you grew up. Also, mention your professional skills and qualifications to remind the recipient why you’re right for the position and what you bring to the table.

3. Close With Enthusiasm

End with a statement of your interest in the position. Let the recipient know you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity to come on board and to contribute to the organization. In closing, mention that you hope to hear back from the interviewer soon about the next steps in the application process.

Secure job interviews with a professional resume that stands out. For help writing one, contact www.ResumeSOS,com. For over 25 years, we have helped clients pursue their career goals with professional resume writing, LinkedIn profile writing job interview coaching, cover letter preparation, and, yes, thank you letters.. To learn more about our services, visit our website, or call (585) 383-0350 to discuss your needs.

3 Tips for a Successful Online Job Interview

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:56:05 GMT

3 Tips for a Successful Online Job Interview

Amid the pandemic, more businesses have turned to online interviews to meet job candidates while adhering to social distancing guidelines. While it can be challenging to make a positive impression with this form of communication, it's possible to hone your interview skills to ensure a successful meeting. Here's some advice on how to ace an online interview.

How to Succeed in an Online Job Interview

1. Perform a Test Run

While advances in technology make it possible to meet with interviewers at the push of a button, new programs, computer malfunctions, and connectivity issues can still present challenges in online meetings. Like arriving on time for an in-person meeting, a strong internet connection and a basic understanding of the conferencing software is vital when attending an online interview.

Prepare in advance by familiarizing yourself with the meeting software and testing functions like your audio, video, and internet connection. If possible, host a mock interview with a friend or relative for technical feedback and to practice your interview skills.

2. Dress Professionally

interview skills

Despite the casual forum, it's essential to dress the same online as you would for an in-person interview. Though you'll likely only be visible from the waist up, completing your outfit from head to toe, including shoes, can help you feel more confident and put together, which comes across in both your body language and attitude.

It's also important to choose an environment in your home that is quiet, tidy, and professional in appearance. If possible, avoid interviewing in front of your television or cluttered areas.

3. Slow Down

Unlike face-to-face conversations, it can be challenging to identify social cues or vocal inflections during online communication. If you're feeling nervous, you may talk faster than usual and unintentionally cut your interviewer off. Audio delays can exacerbate this issue, especially in multi-person interviews.

Prevent accidental interruptions by taking a short pause before you speak to ensure your interviewer has finished. Allowing a few seconds to pass before answering also gives you time to think about your response and provide a more thoughtful answer.

If you need help preparing for your next interview, contact Arnold Smith Associates in Rochester, NY. For over 25 years, their career transition experts have provided professional guidance, helping job-seekers across North America strengthen their resumes and interview skills. Call (585) 383-0350 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.

Is LinkedIn Important to My Job Search?

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:52:36 GMT

Is LinkedIn Important to My Job Search?

If you’re looking for your next job and you’re not on LinkedIn already, you should be. Research shows that more than 90% of recruiters and hiring professionals use LinkedIn to find candidates for positions they are filling. If you’re hoping to advance your career, having a solid LinkedIn profile will make you more visible to these decision makers.

LinkedIn can also be a “passive” job search tool, as well. Because HR professionals are always searching on LinkedIn, they may find you there and call you about opportunties that you didn’t even know existed.

In addition, LinkedIn is great for networking, both locally and globally. You can connect with other professionals in your field, or join industry groups. Career experts will tell you that networking is a key component of a successful job search, and LinkedIn is an efficient way to network, especially during the pandemic.

To get the best results, your profile needs to be more than just an upload of your resume. LinkedIn is your opportunity to tell your story in a much more compelling way. Everything from your “Headline” and “About” section to your “Background” and “Skills” section can work together to advance your brand. You can link to media that showcase your professional skills and accomplishments, as well as uploading photos, PowerPoints, or documents that demonstrate your unique value to a prospective next employer.

At www.ResumeSOS.com, we have the training and experience to tell your story and optimize your presence on LinkedIn. Contact us for a free critique of your existing LinkedIn profile, or ask about how we can help you build an effective new profile from scratch. Arnie@ResumeSOS.com / 585-383-0350. Arnie Boldt | LinkedIn

#linkedinprofiles #jobsearch #careerservices

Is Your Resume ATS Compatible?

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:42:28 GMT

Is Your Resume ATS Compatible?

There’s lots of chatter on social media about making your resume ATS compatible. If you’re not already familiar with that term, ATS stands for “Applicant Tracking Software.” Many employers, especially larger companies, use ATS systems to collect and manage information about job applicants.

The evolution of ATS systems has been rapid and continuous in recent years and has led to some misconceptions as the parameters have changed. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re applying online:

• Most ATS systems can read MS Word documents (.docx) or PDFs. When you apply online, the employer’s website will usually tell you which file formats it can accept, but in most cases, that will include both Word and PDF files. We recommend uploading a PDF whenever possible. The PDF format will preserve the formatting and readability of your document for when a hiring person eventually reads it.

• Make sure to use key words. The best approach is to read the job posting to identify the key words that are most important to the employer. Weaving those key words into your resume will improve the chances that it pops up in search results when an employer searches the ATS database for suitable applicants.

• Use a “Reverse Chronological” format. ATS systems look for employer names and dates and are designed to seek the current or most recent employer first, and then work backwards from there. A functional or skills-based resume can confuse the software.

• You CAN use fancy fonts . If you want to give your resume a visually appealing appearance for the human reader, feel free to use creative fonts, as appropriate. ATS systems see the characters without regard to the type face. At the same time, you want to be sure that the fonts you choose can be easily read by that human hiring person.

• Avoid using headers/footers. Some applicants put their contact information in a header within a word document. This is a bad idea because ATS systems ignore anything in a header or footer. This means that your fantastic resume that would otherwise get you an interview will be skipped because your contact information can’t be seen by the software.

• Tables and text boxes won’t be seen. Text boxes and tables are viewed by ATS systems as graphics, which means they will be ignored. Sometimes it’s tempting to put lists of skills or capabilities in a table, or a key bit of information in a text box for emphasis, but ATS can’t read them. A better choice is to use columns, or you can draw a box around text you want to emphasize, both of which are compatible with ATS.

These are just a few tips on how to optimize your resume for ATS systems and online applications. For a FR** critique of your resume and advice on how improve its ATS compatibility, contact ResumeSOS at Arnie@ResumeSOS.com To learn more about our full spectrum of job search services, visit us at www.ResumeSOS.com.

Are You Ready for Your Next Job Interview?

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:36:18 GMT

Are You Ready for Your Next Job Interview?

Your dynamite resume has won you an interview for that job you are really hoping to land. What should you do to prepare for this important opportunity?

First impressions are vital, especially in the workplace. When you go in for that interview with a potential employer, you want to be confident and, ultimately, get hired by the employer, assuming the job is a good fit with your values, style, and goals.

The key is to be prepared. Being well prepared will help bolster your self-confidence, a crucial ingredient for a successful interview. Some things you should do to be properly prepared include:

Research the company. It’s important to walk into the interview with a working knowledge of what the company makes or what services they provide. How big is the company? Are they national or global? Has the firm recently made any innovations that provide it with a competitive advantage? Who are the competitors? A quick internet search will help you answer most of these questions. If you want to take a deeper dive, you may wish to connect with the Business Librarian at your local library. That person will likely have extensive resources to help you learn more about the company with which you are interviewing.

Check LinkedIn for Company Employees. If you know the name of the person who will be interviewing you, by checking on LinkedIn, you might learn about this person’s background and identify common interests. These can be ice breakers when you are introduced and will demonstrate to the interviewer that you care. You may also discover that you have a college classmate or neighbor who works for the company. This gives you the opportunity to learn what that person has to say about what it’s like to work there.

Do a “Dry Run.” Unless you are totally familiar with the location where the interview will take place, it can’t hurt to do a “drive-by” the day before to make sure you know where you are going and won’t be late.

Organize Your “Interview Kit.” Assemble a brief case or portfolio that contains multiple copies of your resume and cover letter, your list of references, a copy of the job posting, directions (if you haven’t already done your dry run), a “brag book” (portfolio of your accomplishments), and any research materials you have accumulated. Consider including personal items such as breath mints, a comb or brush, and a small mirror.

Also be ready to interview the interviewer. This is a unique opportunity for you to gather information about whether your prospective employer is really the kind of organization you would like to join.

These tips are adapted from “No-Nonsense Job Interviews,” by www.ResumeSOS.com Managing Partner, Arnie Boldt. For more information on how ResumeSOS can help you prepare for your next interview, call (585) 383-0350 or drop Arnie an email at Arnie@ResumeSOS.com.

If you’d like to purchase a copy of “No-Nonsense Job Interviews,” email us at Arnie@ResumeSOS.com for details.

How To Write A Mission Statement - Quick Tips

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:19:34 GMT

How To Write A Mission Statement - Quick Tips

Your mission statement can be an essential component of your professional resume , but it can also be difficult to write. Creating this brief paragraph gives you an opportunity to describe your long-term goals and gives potential employers an idea of who you are. Here are a few tips for writing this important element of your resume.

How to Write a Personal Mission Statement

1. Think About Past Success

Developing a concrete idea of your long-term goals can seem overwhelming, so start by thinking of your past accomplishments. What are you most proud of, and what do those achievements have in common? This can help you discern what you hope to achieve in the future.

2. Establish Values

Your mission statement also allows you to describe what values matter most to you. Think carefully about what values guide your personal and professional lives and why they’re so important. Once you’ve determined which values matter most, select one that will focus your mission statement on a desirable career choice.

3. Set Goals

Your mission statement should also include a description of what you’d like to achieve professionally. When describing your goals, don’t be afraid to be ambitious.

For instance, you might dream of one day owning your own company or becoming an industry leader in your field. Describing your vision for the future will help employers understand your motivations for wanting a particular role.

4. Be Succinct

When crafting a mission statement for your resume, keep it as concise as possible. Boiling down all these elements to a simple paragraph can be difficult, but try to write your statement in no more than two or three short sentences. A brief, meaningful statement sets the stage for developing a focused resume that will attract employers.

Writing a competitive professional resume that will get an employer’s attention can be challenging. www.ResumeSOS.com in Rochester, NY, has over 25 years of experience creating winning resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles for job seekers across the country. Visit their website or call (585) 383-0350 to learn how they can help you create a powerful resume.

resumesos

What Not to do While Writing Your Professional Resume

﻿ What Not to do While Writing Your Professional Resume ﻿ ﻿

Set Yourself Apart With a Professional Resume by ResumeSOS.com

﻿ Set Yourself Apart With a Professional Resume by ResumeSOS.com ﻿

Top 4 Benefits Of Interview Coaching With ResumeSOS.com

﻿ Top 4 Benefits Of Interview Coaching With ResumeSOS.com ﻿ ﻿

Job Interview Tips From The Experts at ResumeSOS.com

﻿ Job Interview Tips From The Experts at ResumeSOS.com ﻿ ﻿

Professional Resume Writers Explain The Importance of Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile

﻿ Professional Resume Writers Explain The Importance of Filling Out Your LinkedIn Profile ﻿

Sharpen Your Interview Skills With Interview Simulations From ResumeSOS.com

﻿ Sharpen Your Interview Skills With Interview Simulations From ResumeSOS.com ﻿ ﻿

Take Advantage of Career Coaching From ResumeSOS.com

﻿ Take Advantage of Career Coaching From ResumeSOS.com ﻿ ﻿

Experts at ResumeSOS.com Recommend Enhancing Your Professional Resume With A LinkedIn Profile

﻿ Experts at ResumeSOS.com Recommend Enhancing Your Professional Resume With A LinkedIn Profile ﻿ ﻿

Discover Your Ideal Career Path With Career Coaching & Assessment Services From ResumeSOS.com

﻿ Discover Your Ideal Career Path With Career Coaching & Assessment Services From ResumeSOS.com ﻿ ﻿

Career Professionals at ResumeSOS.com Explain Why Professional Networking is Important

﻿ Career Professionals at ResumeSOS.com Explain Why Professional Networking is Important ﻿ ﻿

5 Tips for Creating a Professional Resume

﻿ 5 Tips for Creating a Professional Resume ﻿ ﻿

Thinking of Changing Careers? Career Coaching Services Can Help You Decide What's Right For You

﻿ Thinking of Changing Careers? Career Coaching Services Can Help You Decide What's Right For You ﻿ ﻿

3 Reasons to Update Your Professional Resume in September

﻿ 3 Reasons to Update Your Professional Resume in September ﻿ ﻿

3 Reasons to Keep Your LinkedIn® Profile Updated

﻿ 3 Reasons to Keep Your LinkedIn® Profile Updated ﻿ ﻿

Don't Forget to Say, "Thanks!" Tips for Writing Thank You Notes After a Job Interview

﻿ Don't Forget to Say, "Thanks!" Tips for Writing Thank You Notes After a Job Interview ﻿ ﻿

3 Tips for a Successful Online Job Interview

﻿ 3 Tips for a Successful Online Job Interview ﻿ ﻿

Is LinkedIn Important to My Job Search?

﻿ Is LinkedIn Important to My Job Search? ﻿ ﻿

Is Your Resume ATS Compatible?

﻿ Is Your Resume ATS Compatible? ﻿ ﻿

Are You Ready for Your Next Job Interview?

﻿ Are You Ready for Your Next Job Interview? ﻿ ﻿

How To Write A Mission Statement - Quick Tips

﻿ How To Write A Mission Statement - Quick Tips ﻿

What Not to do While Writing Your Professional Resume

Set Yourself Apart With a Professional Resume by ResumeSOS.com

Top 4 Benefits Of Interview Coaching With ResumeSOS.com

Job Interview Tips From The Experts at ResumeSOS.com

Professional Resume Writers Explain The Importance of Filling Out Your LinkedIn Profile

Sharpen Your Interview Skills With Interview Simulations From ResumeSOS.com

Take Advantage of Career Coaching From ResumeSOS.com

Experts at ResumeSOS.com Recommend Enhancing Your Professional Resume With A LinkedIn Profile

Discover Your Ideal Career Path With Career Coaching & Assessment Services From ResumeSOS.com

Career Professionals at ResumeSOS.com Explain Why Professional Networking is Important

5 Tips for Creating a Professional Resume

Thinking of Changing Careers? Career Coaching Services Can Help You Decide What's Right For You

3 Reasons to Update Your Professional Resume in September

3 Reasons to Keep Your LinkedIn® Profile Updated

Don't Forget to Say, "Thanks!" Tips for Writing Thank You Notes After a Job Interview

3 Tips for a Successful Online Job Interview

Is LinkedIn Important to My Job Search?

Is Your Resume ATS Compatible?

Are You Ready for Your Next Job Interview?

How To Write A Mission Statement - Quick Tips