Scannable R é sum é s

2. Scannable Résumés A scannable résumé can be scanned (OCR) into a computer using imaging technology. It allows employers to search for applicants using keywords. A software like ResTrack or Resumix extracts words and dates from the new version that can be searched by employers.

4. How are Scannables different than Traditional Résumés? Scannables don’t look like traditional resumes – they don’t sound like traditional resumes either. • Format Rules • Keywords • Shift verbs to nouns, past to present

5. Scannable Format Rules • MAXIMIZE SCANNABILITY • As little punctuation as possible (if any) • Left justify the entire document, ragged right • Avoid vertical and horizontal lines, graphics, columns and boxes • Do not fold or staple • Use white space between sections, no bullets/symbols

6. Scannable Format Rules • Use fonts like Times New Roman, New Century, Courier, Helvetica, Arial • Font size should be 12 or 14 • No fancy font styles such as italics, underline, and shadows. (remove hyperlink from email) • CAPITAL letters are okay

7. Keywords • Keywords are the most important aspect of the scannable résumé. • Incorporating words that are commonly used within the industry • Include interpersonal traits (strengths) • Synonyms & Buzzwords

8. For example, if an employer is looking for a “graphic designer” thatcan create “brochures” and “multimedia presentations”… PRESENT TENSE!!! Traditional Résumé Developed promotional materials and brochures Created multimedia presentations Scannable Résumé Graphic designer who can create four color brochuresmultimedia presentations and newspaper ads Use nouns instead of action verbs

9. Before the Interview Research Prepare – Answer three questions What about yourself do you want the interviewer to know? What disadvantages or weaknesses do you need to minimize? What do you need to know about the job and the organization to decide whether to accept this job if it is offered to you?

10. Before the Interview Additional Points for Preparation Success stories Selling points Responses to common questions Questions for interviewer

11. During the Interview First impression Focus: strengths, don’t criticize Be prepared for questions Salary: know your salary range Inappropriate: shift focus to positive Behavioral: STAR method Ask your own – have a list Orientation and training, career paths, opportunities for development

12. STAR Method For BEHAVIORAL questions – tell a story “describe a time…” “give me an example…” Situation – what was the situation or context? Set the scene Task – what was the task, project, or problem? Action – what action did you take? How did you handle the situation? Result(s) – what were the results?

13. After the Interview Take notes while the interview is fresh Write a “thank you” within two days