This is a double-header post. Why are achievements in resumes so important and a cost-benefit analysis of using resume writers based in Adelaide
Why focus on achievements and good results in a resume and cover letter?
The reasons are simple.
A person who wants to hire a car mechanic, knows what a car mechanic does. An architectural firm seeking a new architect, knows what an architect does.
So cutting and pasting two pages of duties and responsibilities from job descriptions from current and previous work is a complete waste of time.
In recruitment terms, it’s a strong negative, bordering on insulting.
You want to include measurable results and achievements.
You want to include how you improved the unit, section or department.
What was the good result of training all of those apprentices?
How did the diplomas or degree help you in your current job?
What innovations have you implemented and what projects did you lead? Go further – what was the good results?
Where you did work beyond a job description, include that. That’s good. Things like secondments or extra duties need to be included. Then include the good results.
Most of the resumes I see from other so-called local writers – who are based in Perth or Sydney – simply cut and paste standard duties. They should be shut down.
Hiring a resume writer – cost and benefit analysis
One curious aspects about being a professional writer, is the angst people go through over price.
Some top line writing companies charge more than $1000 for a resume.
We charge in the $200-$400 price range but a full executive CV will cost top dollar. Executive career changer resumes may be expensive too.
Let’s do a quick ‘value for money’ calculation.
A professional resume writer – not a back yard shonk – will increase your chances of being short-listed by around 30-40 percent.
Of course, you need to be in the ‘ball park’ in the first place and meet the basic criteria for a job.
We’ve had people wanting us to create an IT manager resume when they’ve never worked in IT.
Let’s say the job pays $80,000 per annum and a resume costs $250.00.
For .25 per cent of your yearly salary, your chances of being short-listed, may increase by up to 40 per cent.
You have leapt over scores of other candidates and now you have a shot at the big prize.
But a professionally written resume doesn’t stop working for you there.
If the selection panel can’t make up their mind between you and another candidate, they go back and compare the resumes. The best resume wins.
On a cost basis, can you afford not to hire a professional sresume writer?