It’s not always your résumé
Dear Sam: I am 60 years old and have been out of work for seven months. I have applied for jobs all across the country with very little response. The online sites don’t ask how old you are, but they want to know when you graduated from high school. Anybody can do the math, and I know they are looking at my age.
I have a vast amount of knowledge in all aspects of maintenance and construction, and am not ready to retire. I’m in good health and can work circles around people half my age. I’m willing to travel 50 to 60 miles to work, and any shift is not a problem. I am attaching my résumé for you to look at. Maybe there is something I can change. I appreciate any help. — Joe
Dear Joe: While I have some suggestions, your résumé is actually quite sound. I like the way you have designed your résumé with the left column presenting your areas of expertise, certifications and education. The larger, right-hand side of the résumé contains your 30 years of work history across two jobs. While there are opportunities for improvement in the qualifications summary and the focus on accomplishments versus responsibilities, I think it is actually the way you are searching for a job that is hindering your success.
After 30-plus years of experience, I would expect you to possess a vast professional network. Can’t you tap into those resources and the networks of those you know?
Applying solely online is the worst distribution strategy as, like you said, there are certain ways employers can glean information about your candidacy that would not be noticed on a résumé (such as a high school graduation date).
If you are not on LinkedIn, or not technically savvy, I believe that getting your résumé in front of those in your network is the way to get your next job. Referrals provide that instant third-party credibility to the claims on your résumé and can help overcome those potential disqualifiers.
— Samantha Nolan is a certified professional résumé writer and the owner of Ladybug Design, a full-service résuméwriting firm. Email résumé or job-search questions to dearsam@arkansasonline.
com. To find out more about Nolan, visit www.ladybug-design.com.