In the world of staffing we have dozens of metaphors to describe The Resume.  A resume is a snapshot of your life and work, a paper handshake, a digital passport to the chance for a better job.  However, newcomers to job hunting often burn through the applications process in such a fervor that they miss important things that could make or break a potential job offer.

We decided to ask our TECHEAD recruiters what really makes a resume shine, and for some tips for folks new to the game.  The results are interesting!  Check out their answers for inspiration and encouragement.

What makes a resume or CV stand out, to you?

Believe it or not, using spell check, and good formatting!  Don’t trust the computer to make you look good on paper!  You won’t believe the number of resumes we receive where the applicant clearly used spell check and grammar check, but didn’t read through the document to ensure the computer made the right choices.  Do yourself a favor: read the document yourself for clarity, and then for grammar.

Any advice to people attempting to break into the job market?

Network, network, network!  Take part in social meet-up events for your specialty in your community, and get to know the city where you work.  It may land you a job offer, and you’ll make great connections and friends!

What sort of experience should future creative/IT candidates be trying to get now, to assure potential eligibility for TECHEAD placements?

Know yourself.  Look at your expertise level, and apply accordingly.  Folks without a track record in a given field, perhaps those just leaving college, would do well to look into junior level positions.

And how about some advice for people submitting portfolios electronically?  Any words of wisdom?

Just a few- and it’s really simple:  whatever you do, make sure your links work!

…So, sit down, take a deep breath, and read through that resume again.  Trust us, it’s the little things that count!