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Editor’s Note: This month, we are pleased to feature a new column by Sandy Scardino, an Austin-based, award-winning and nationally recognized headhunter, author and interview coach. In these tough economic times, we realize many of our readers may be embarking on a job search and/or in the process of interviewing. We hope Sandy’s tips are useful to both individuals seeking new employment, as well as valuable reminders to the rest of us still gainfully employed or otherwise!
Q. Do I need to fill out an application form if I’ve provided a resume?
A. Always fill out an application form if you are asked. Application forms generally serve more of a purpose than your resume does. For most interviewers and human resource departments, it gives a standard form that they can use to quickly view your skills and background at a glance. Resumes don’t all follow a standard format; the company’s application form does.
You also don’t want to be perceived as being uncooperative by refusing to fill out the application. Don’t let the first impression you make be a negative one.
Q. What criteria should I use when choosing a reference?
A. You should always ask permission to use someone as a reference. Being surprised by the call won’t sound good to a potential employer. I have found that when caught unprepared, people can inadvertently say some very unhelpful things. Don’t forget, just because you ask if you can use someone as a reference, doesn’t mean you have to use them.
Choose people who have been witness to specific good performances you want to highlight to a potential employer. Ask them what they will say when asked about your strengths and abilities. Listen to what they have to say; some people see things in us that we don’t see in ourselves. If they don’t cover what you need them to, you can certainly ask, “Would you highlight my ability to build a sales team?” if that’s what the company is looking for. Always let them know about each job you are applying for so they can highlight those things that will apply.
Q. Can volunteer or unpaid experience go on my resume?
A. Yes, especially if it relates to the position you are applying for. If you volunteered at your child’s school, learning the accounting system a potential employer uses, you could highlight it under a separate section showing the accounting systems you have worked on.
Another way of showing volunteer and unpaid experience is to simply list the place you volunteered as you would any other position with dates you worked there, name of the organization, duties and responsibilities etc. Work you have done is work you have done regardless of compensation.
Q. How much information should I put in my cover letter?
A. Cover letters are not your work history or your life story. They should be short and concise. They simply introduce you and offer your resume to be considered for the position. A cover letter, or letter of introduction, should be geared toward the qualities and abilities that make you right for the position.The set of skills required should be highlighted in your resume not your cover letter. Try to find one or two qualities to briefly mention that would be needed for the position you are applying for. “I feel that my ability to delegate responsibility and motivate staff makes me an excellent candidate for the department manager’s position.”Also state when you will call to follow up and include contact information to reach you if an earlier interview is desired.
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