Post Resume – Tips on Using Your Resume Online Effectively

• Keyword Distribution: When was the last time you researched on good resumes before drafting yours? One thing that you must understand is that any kind of article (even a resume) is subjected to the ‘filter-like’ algorithms of a job search site. Since it is humanly not possible to sift through millions of resumes, the services of a computer are taken into account. The program then crawls over millions of similar resumes and then flags and segregates them according to relevance and requirement.

More often than not, such algorithms seek to ‘locate’ and find keywords in the places as they should actually appear. For example, if you have used the keywords but not in the right places, your resume stands a chance to be listed lower down the order (even if you’re a better candidate than the one which occupies the top slot). Keep your resume precise but always plan the keyword distribution. Different websites may have different algorithms and search criteria; therefore for the best results, use the FAQ page of the websites as and when required.

• Addition of Titles: A profile name (or a resume title) such as ‘coolman09’ doesn’t work at all with your employers. You’re losing out on keyword placement at the most important starting juncture – the title. Quite obviously a job specific resume/profile title will help get more attention than the one mentioned above. Keep it precise and mention the job title that you seek to attract with your CV. That is the first step to get a better and more relevant response from your prospective employers.

Interestingly, the job title may vary from company even of the mode of job is the same! This is what experts mean when they mention ‘playing with words’ explicitly!

• Highlighting important accomplishments and skill set: Today’s employer doesn’t have the time to sift through hundreds of job applications and resumes. He will look for key competencies and your accomplishments before anything else. This is also a way of keyword optimization. Here you need to optimize your skill set such that the job search results page shows your resume at the top.

• Updating your resume and profile: Last but not the least, you must always periodically update your CV and application to suit the ever changing trends of finding a job.

• Limit time dedicated: Many of us make the irreparable mistake of dedicating more time to this job search than actually required. The more time you spend online on such sites, the more likely are to label yourself as desperate! Keep cool and do not let the results hamper your current work in any way.