Ogilvy’s direct marketing chief put it best: “Whether you like it or not, life is one long sales pitch, and most of the selling is done in writing.” — Drayton Bird
Tired of sending your resume into the proverbial black hole? Wondering why you’re not hearing back from employers when you meet the job description requirements? (Here’s what actually happens when you apply online.)
Every day for the last two decades, I’ve reviewed hundreds of resumes, and I’ve learned a thing or two about what separates a winning resume submittal from a losing one.
I’m going to share several keys that will help you get called in for an interview even if you don’t know anyone at the hiring organization. These will show you how to double your chances of getting noticed with a cold online resume submittal.
Key #1: Want the Job? Write a Cover Letter
A cover letter can make sure your resume gets read. Take the time to tailor your letter, and your resume will be reviewed.
You’ll show the employer that you communicate professionally and that you’re interested enough to write a formal letter. Most employers take notice of well-written cover letters.
Key #2: Don’t Write an Ordinary Cover Letter
Any old cover letter won’t do much to help you secure an interview. You want a letter that makes the employer notice your relevant skills, and that’s easy to do as long as you have the requisite skills and reference them directly.
Missing most of the required skills? Don’t waste your time applying. Invest your limited time in opportunities that match your skill set.
Key #3: Follow Up with the Hiring Manager
When you’re truly interested in the company and the position, take the time to follow up directly. It may take a little digging, but it’s never been easier.
Find out who’s in charge of the hiring decision and send an email, make a call, and try to set up an initial interview. No email address to be found? It’s easy to send an InMail via LinkedIn.
Key #4: Your Resume Should Be Error-Free
More than 95% of applicants have typos and formatting errors on their resumes. This is a document that deserves thought, strategy, and precision. It isn’t enough to pull something together and hope you get called in.
When you’ve looked at your resume too many times, it becomes difficult to catch your own errors. Have friends and trusted colleagues check for spelling and formatting issues.
Key #5: Your Resume Should Be Modern
There are times when you can get away with a resume update. But sometimes your resume needs a complete overhaul.
After more than one or two updates over the years, it’s probably time to revamp it with a fresh style and modern layout. And when it’s under-representing you entirely, fire it and start over.
Key #6: Your LinkedIn Profile Should Match Your Resume
Seems obvious, right? But sometimes you’ll change something on your resume and forget to change it on LinkedIn.
Certain items on your profile should match your resume exactly: degrees earned, positions held, dates of employment, and employer names. Mismatches are one of the fastest ways to get knocked out of consideration.
The content under each position on LinkedIn should be condensed, with less detail than your resume.
Why Not Make the Changes Now?
After all, only one person can get each job advertised. If you have the necessary skills and the passion for your next employer, why shouldn’t it be you?
You can win more interviews in today’s competitive job market by following these keys. Get the job you deserve by putting this information into action today.
Cold submittals are one channel; the complete guide to sales resumes, LinkedIn, and job applications covers them all.
