Is it in with new and out with the old with job applications?

Job applications have evolved a lot during the past few years. When I first encountered those two words, it was connected to the thought of having your resumes printed and then sending them through snail mail. Then when I started looking for a job, the paper was already phased out; online job applications were in.

More and more companies are turning their backs to paper resumes and saying hello to the online world. They usually ask you to fill out an application form located on their website so that they have your personal profile on their database. Some companies tell their applicants that they’re no longer accepting paper copies of the applicant’s resume. Some give you the option to choose whether you want to fill up an online application or if you want to e-mail them your CV.

Job applications are still job applications no matter what form it takes.

There are companies who accept any kind of application, not caring if it’s done online or if it’s handed personally. The important thing is that you’re qualified for the job. It still boils down to you and how your CV reaches your might-be future employer. No matter what form it takes, job applications are still job applications.

Having the write resume is the most important element in nailing a job. Before the personality tests, before the job interview, before the on the job training, your resume is the first thing employers will be looking at. Are you in or are you out? Your possible employer’s first impression of you will make or break your chances.

So, here are some useful tips to help you make the right resume:

1.    Make sure your resume is organized.

Every word counts in making your resume. You have to find a way to fit everything you need to say in the shortest amount of space possible. Employers will not read through a whole biography of your life.

Divide the information in your resume into categories like job objective, educational background, co-curricular activities, extra-curricular activities, work experience, skills and interests, and so on.

Arrange the information in your categories in chronological or reverse-chronological order, so as not to confuse your target employer. No need for months and days, years are enough to create a clear timeline.

2.    Put your best foot forward

In line with keeping your resume organized, make sure you only say what is essential in your resume. You do not need to put where you went for preschool, or when you had your first holy communion, and or a list of your favorite movies, for example.

Also, do not include projects you have handled or been a part of that have not been successful. Neither should you include seminars or events that you were not part of in your resume. If your desired employer decides to fact-check on what you have written, you could end up in deep trouble.

3.    Tailor your resume to fit the job and company you are applying for.

If you are applying for a marketing job, you do not need to include the awards you won for art class or for winning in a bowling tournament, or that you attended a summer acting workshop. More important will be informing them about the marketing or business seminars you have attended, or the marketing projects you have handled.

On the other hand, leadership and service oriented jobs are usually plus points for any job and position, so it would be best to include this information in your resume.

In this time of economic crisis it is more crucial and difficult than ever to get a job. And the first step in getting that job is to sell yourself to your prospective employer with the write resume.