So you’re contemplating a job change in the near future? Well, if you’re attempting to keep your career on track, you should have a game plan in mind for your career that includes moving up the ladder once approximately every two to three years. One of the first things any job seeker must do prior to engaging in a career search, is to create or update their resume.

What exactly is the purpose of a resume, or Curriculum Vitae, besides the obvious? What is the most widely accepted format for resumes? Is it perfectly acceptable to add “flare” to your resume, to ensure recruiters and employers take notice? Let’s take deeper look at your resume, and discuss these issues in detail.

According to Wikipedia, the formal definition of a resume, is is a document containing a summary or listing of relevant job experience and education, usually for the purpose of obtaining an interview when seeking employment. Additionally referred to as a Curriculum Vitae, which is the Latin term for “course of life,” your resume should be updated on a regular basis, to reflect new employers, additional educational courses, and relevant work experiences that are in direct line with your career goals.
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After years of studying and being a low-wage working student, freshly minted graduates are entering a robust job market. Employers plan to hire nearly 20% more new college graduates in 2006-2007 than they did in 2005-2006, based on the Job Outlook 2007 Spring Update, produced by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). The survey found that nearly 60 percent of employers said they plan to hire more new college graduates in 2006-07 than they did in 2005-06.

In today’s fiercely competitive business world, graduates must learn the principles of business etiquette to sharpen their professionalism, corporate image, and savvy to outclass the competition. Graduates have to walk in the door poised, polished, and prepared to make a great first impression!

Most people have “butterflies in the stomach” when meeting interviewers. Fear is a natural emotion but don’t let it paralyze or prevent you from landing your dream job.

You are granted an interview because the employer believes you are a good match for the position and want to determine if you are qualified, motivated, and compatible with the company’s culture.

Within 5 seconds of meeting you, an interviewer will form an impression and decide if they will not hire you. You will be judged on your professional image, attitude, personality, speech, nonverbal communication, and social skills (e.g., posture, smile, eye contact, and demeanor). (more…)