What Is Your First Impression?

Less than 5% of executive applications for posted positions get consideration from employers and recruiters. This is not because candidates lack required credentials, but due to the fact that the vast majority of executive resumes look and sound alike. Most applications are either rejected or ignored because they never answer this key question – WHY YOU? Without a prior history with employers, you are asking them for a lot - to grant you interviews, hire you, and pay you a high salary. Therefore, your message needs to be exceptional and impactful, without sounding like a recycled commercial. In this job market, employers are more cautious about recruitment. They also have a larger pool of applicants to choose from. The main way, at least initially, for employers to determine the best fit is from executive resumes. Therefore, having a powerful, action-focused message is no longer an option for a serious job seeker. You can either present yourself as an average, mass-market applicant or convey that you are a stronger candidate who is offering superior value. By effectively communicating your real and unique strengths, you can significantly boost employer response. HERE’S HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR MESSAGE: Aim to position yourself as a specialized generalist, i.e. someone with a well-rounded general background but also with one or two specific areas of expertise that distinctly make you more attractive than others in your peer group. Promote yourself a value-added candidate. Instead of merely describing your previous duties and responsibilities, give special attention in your resume to factors that will give your candidacy a notably higher appeal. For instance, if you are a CIO, explain how you can bridge business and technology within an organization. Translate your executive experience into potential financial benefits employers can expect to receive. Clearly convey – on paper and in interviews - how you can help new employers make and save money. Give illustrations of prior successes but most importantly, expand on the likely gains these can bring to companies. By enhancing the quality of your executive message, you improve your first impression. This is essential for staying ahead and getting the opportunities you deserve. By Wayne Richardson