A DIY resume 

It’s sometimes, an uphill battle to present a resume that’s just right.

We will labour over what to include, what to delete.  We are conflicted over what is relevant for the position we are applying for, and so often, when we create and write our own, we have a distorted view, we see the world from our own perspective, not from the reader’s viewpoint.

Let’s be honest, many of us are also unable to objectively read, let alone, edit and proof read our own writing

A good resume writer knows the industry standards and the major requirements of a recruiter whether that’s the  internal HR departments or small business owners. The Writer will forge your resume to relate to the reader. It will match to the job advertised; it will be a resume with a point of difference!

Contact figjam resumes for a free consultation and quote for your next career move

 Ivana Agapiou Resume writer and career advisor 0404056278

The post DIY Resumes? are some things better done by others? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

The Application Resume – Performance for your career – it’s worth the effort, isn’t it?

It’s easier to be a serial applicant than to be someone who carefully and painfully works out what is the best strategy or option in applying for “that” great job. The choice you make, may enhance your life,  and may even leave the world with a legend and a lasting legacy. As my Father would say “use your talents to leave the world in better shape”.

The very process of applying for a job, whether informal or formal could be the fight not just for your career, but for your life. We are intrinsically defined by the jobs we perform. It takes up an enormous part of our existence and sadly it often defines us. Our choices also affect our family, friends and most importantly our mental health.

Job applications are no different than planning anything significant  in your life. Yah.. you can get away with going from job to aimless job, and saving what meager funds and faith you can in the world. Nothing wrong with that – if that’s what you want.  I wanted more. I wanted my job to enable be to be part of my community in a meaningful way. I wanted to integrate and engage with people who needed help and support. I wanted a job that made me feel good. I was not interested (nor was I good at it) in repeat, rinse, wash,  dry and repeat.  I liked structure, but hated the routine. I liked rules, but also liked to see and work in  “grey” areas.  I was a bit complicated! But I knew who I was, what I was good at and had some ideas of the type of work that would warm my soul. NO, I didn’t always know.. I made  tons of mistakes, applying for dumb jobs and spent too many hours that I lost forever from my short life.  Yes, those jobs shaped me. But I often wonder what benefits the world lost and I lost wasting my time in stupid jobs.

So what is your overall goal? What do you want from life and most importantly, what job do think will get the best out of you!

All I’m saying is think about it before you embark on the application and towards your career journey. Think hard of the impact, the repercussions of deciding to follow the money and not the magic!

Ivana Agapiou resume writer and career advisor

The post The Application Resume – Performance for your career – it’s worth the effort appeared first on Eather Recruitment.

Can you trust your referees to say positive things and sell you in the best light?

It’s only your future after all..

Its not what referees write that matters, it’s what they say that has clout.

Many job seekers make the mistake of thinking that a written reference is Gold. Whilst it’s great to have nice things written about you, the written reference is not the best way for a prospective employer to determine if you are the right person for their job. Here’s 5 reasons why..

1. no one.. I repeat..no one would write anyone a bad reference. It’s a permanent record after all.
2. you wouldn’t show a prospective new employer a mediocre or poor reference
3. the written reference can “date” you (not a relevant document after 3 years)
4. often the referee cannot be contacted by the prospective employer who may want to ask questions
5. many written references have the mandatory motherhood statements and words like, “honest and trustworthy” “reliable” etc.. very few are written with your personality or individuality in mind… they are often broad, sweeping statements that don’t reveal much at all.

Now…you will need at least two,  100% tried and true referees.  Their name, job title, contact details ( the three essentials) entered at the end of your professional resume. Here are the test  questions to determine a great referee for you.

• can they provide relevant and recent (last 5 years) details of your work and duties, your performance,  and your personality?
• did you leave their employ/supervision on good terms?
• are you 100% certain you can trust them to speak highly of you? if even a bit uncertain – don’t use them

Remember that referees are in a power position. A prospective employer relies on what they say and what they DON’T say, for example, they may say something like “no comment” and leave the new employer in doubt of your abilities.

Lastly, and most importantly, contact your referees regularly and let them know what you are up to. Certainly, ensure that they are happy to act as your referee, and most of all follow your gut instinct.. if you feel that they may not say/do the right thing… if in doubt… leave them out

#resumes #resumewriter #FIGJAMresumes,

good luck  with your job search

Ivana Agapiou

Career Advisor; resume writer and Outplacement Professional

The post Can you trust your referees? appeared first on Eather Recruitment.