After reviewing and interviewing literally thousands of candidates, we realised that most people had no idea what they were actually doing. Difficult to read resumes, no attention to detail, missing vital information, applying to the wrong positions, interviewing horribly, not answering questions, not listening properly, being unprofessional…and oh the list continues. Each of these candidates was not given a job. But let’s face it, why would you know how to sell yourself in a very particular way without getting any training, information, leads, direction, or support? For example, you are applying for an Accountant position – you are an accountant, you know how to balance a sheet, how to file taxes, how to even be ‘creative’. It is your skill, why suddenly are you able to also know the skill of selling yourself in a very particularly structured document? They are two different skill sets.
Sure, you can go searching information online, or you may even ask a friend to look at their resume and copy it. It worked for your friend; it will work for you too. Not necessarily. There are many factors that play when it comes to job searching. Firstly, how many jobs did your friend apply for? Were they super lucky with the type of hiring manager that got their resume? Do they have an outstanding LinkedIn profile? Were they close networks and referred in the end? Did they manage to interview well?
As for online resumes and advice – they are very general. Your needs, the roles you apply to and the person you are is not generic. To get general information is fine, it is a great starting point, however, what do you do with this information? How do you apply this information in the most effective manner? You may have all the information you need, but no order, direction, or knowledge how to use it.
