[Solution] Using Digital Tools to Fine-Tune Your Job Search
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Author: Sarah Bennett
Electronic media have changed the way employers select qualified candidates. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are often the first screening process that your application will receive.
Print-based résumés should be in an .
View Explanation
Print-based résumés need to be attractively formatted to maximize readability. Follow an outline, use headings and bullet points, and present your information in an orderly, uncluttered, easy-to-read format.
Read the scenario, and answer the question.
You are a human resources manager. You recently received a résumé via e-mail. When you open the attachment, the text is unreadable.
What formatting suggestion should the job candidate have followed before submitting their résumé?
- Move all text to the right
- Save your résumé in plain-text format
- Reformat with longer lines
View Explanation
Make sure you save your résumé in plain-text or rich text format so it can be read when pasted into an e-mail message.
What should you avoid including on your résumé? Check all that apply.
- Typical headings
- Interpersonal traits and attitudes
- Unusual typefaces, underlining, and italics
- Keyword summaries
- Unfamiliar abbreviations
View Explanation
Some methods of improving your résumé's chances with an ATS system are to include specific keywords and phrases culled from the job posting; focus on nouns related to job titles, technical specializations, or certifications; use variations on job titles; and concentrate on filling out the skills section. Do not add a keyword summary because many recruiters find them to be manipulative.
The primary reason for preparing an e-portfolio is to .
View Explanation
E-portfolios are a good way to showcase your talents. Because e-portfolios can support multimedia, they highlight your qualifications more thoroughly than print résumés. Some tech-savvy candidates include videos in their e-portfolios.
Regardless of the submission format, in almost all cases, your résumé should be accompanied by a .
View Explanation
Your résumé should be well written, clearly formatted, and meticulously proofread. You should always send your résumé in the format the potential employer requests. Regardless of the requested submission format, in most cases, you should submit a cover letter with your résumé.