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Sure, landing a job interview can seem difficult, but with some creative twists to your resume you can be sure to stand out among the crowd and make a memorable impression on any hiring manager. Writer Chandra Lye tells you how.
When applying for jobs it helps if you think of your resume as your marketing document. Adding a creative element to your application will also highlight your talents. Some of the top ways to make your resume stand out can include anything from an infographic resume to a video version of your work experience.
Infographically speaking
What a better way to show off your ability to creatively use data than an infographic of your previous successes? An infographic resume needs to be created within the regular confines of an infographic.
It works best when it flows and tells your story. Pick just a handful of your top achievements from your previous jobs and demonstrate how they have worked together to make you a top candidate for the position.
Don’t hold back. You can use quotes from former bosses, press mentions, photos and logo of companies where you have worked. If design is not your strong point, there are websites that can help you create your own infographic CV.
Don’t forget to add your call to action (contact me section or link to your online portfolio or blog). Remember that an infographic should not replace your traditional resume but add flair to your application.
Get candid on camera
A video version of your resume can be neat as long as you keep a few things to keep in mind. First off, be sure the company accepts a video resume as many discrimination laws have made businesses wary of possible accusations of discrimination in candidate selection.
If you decide to go proceed, keep it short –no longer than two minutes.
Have a script ready and practice until you are confident about the points you want to cover. Don’t simply read from a piece of paper make it seem natural.
Advertise. Literally
Okay, so maybe a huge board advertising your need of work might seem like a bit much but it has worked for others. We’ve heard tales of one job-hunter renting an electronic billboard in Minneapolis, MN which included the URL of his personal website.
It cost him $300 but he did land a job with a 3D scanning company. One savvy job hunter in the UK used the billboard stunt in London and received over 100 job offers. He used his first paycheck to put up a thank you advert on the same billboard.
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While a creative resume can make you stand out it don’t use it to replace your traditional resume. That doesn’t mean you can’t update your traditional document though; make it current by using links to your webpage, portfolio or social media accounts.
Remember, most employers will see your digital resume and by making it easier to get a better idea of who you are will serve you well.
Chandra is an Australian-born journalist with over 10 years experience. She has worked with some of Canada’s top news outlets including CTV News, Global News and Sun Media. She now resides in Burnaby, BC.
What are some creative tactics you’ve employed to help you land a job? We’d like to hear from you! Leave a comment in the section below.