Missing opportunities? Are you creating only an ATS resume?

If your focus is only on creating an ATS-friendly resume, you will struggle to get your next job, especially if you are seeking a director to executive-level role.

Can use of only an ATS resume lose opportunities?

If you are an active member of job search groups for people who are seeking new jobs, you probably have been coached that you must always use an ATS-friendly resume. There is nothing wrong with having an ATS resume but most people use them incorrectly.

Ever since online applications began, people think it is the only way to be hired. Seminars coach you on how to create the best ATS resume and people think this is the only option.

Don't limit your opportunities with only an ATS resume

While I understand that at times you will need to use an ATS system, putting your sole focus in this direction will seriously limit opportunities.

How to open yourself up for more opportunities

If you prepare both a presentation-style resume and an ATS resume, while making adjustments to tailor both resume types to the job area you are targeting, you will be ahead of the game.

Leverage the presentation-style resume for email applications, networking electronically by email, and also by sharing your resume with friends. The presentation-style resume will make a better first impression than the bland ATS version.

How to stand out from the competition with a professional resume

This year I was honored to be selected as one of the judges for the annual Toast of the Resume Industry (TORI) competition. This annual competition is hosted by Career Directors International (CDI) began in the early 2000s and continues every year. The TORI resumes are networking resumes used to help job seekers network their way into jobs. According to CDI, networking is the method in which over 60% of all job opportunities are found.

I used the TORIs as inspiration for years. The career industry is a unique one where there are more colleague relationships than the competition.

The visual or presentation resume is what the TORI competition is based upon.

This year, Laura DeCarlo, Executive Director of CDI, invited me to be one of the judges in the 5-member first round of Judges. I enjoyed the opportunity to select the Top 10 resumes in five categories - Executive, High Tech, Sales, the new Difficult Transitions category, and Healthcare. The competition was stiff but I submitted my scores in mid-August.

Shortly thereafter, Laura emailed that one of the Final Round Judges had a family emergency and would I consider judging the finals. I said yes, and soon had the top five in all categories - Executive, High Tech, Sales, Marketing, Difficult Transitions, Healthcare, Hospitality, Accounting/Finance, and the all-new Portfolio Careers designed for those whose side hustles have morphed into a portfolio career. My role was to determine the ranking and my scores are currently being compiled with those of the other four final judges for the announcement of the TORI winners in October.

You can learn more about the TORI process here. 

The TORI Awards Director will ensure all submissions appear anonymous to the panel of judges so that fair and equitable judging can take place.

The first tier of judges are all certified resume writers, members of CDI’s resume certification committee, and many former TORI winners. They are responsible for selecting five nominees in each category. A second similar panel of highly-qualified and certified resume writers will then select the first, second, and third place winners in each category, leading to 50 nominees, and 30 total winners.

Why your presentation resume matters

Too many people hone in on the ATS resume and worry about getting that right. At the same time, they neglect the presentation or networking resume to attract the attention of decision-makers. This is the hardest thing to get through to many job seekers. Your audience isn't the point 'n click world of online job search. You must work harder to create a presentation-style resume to clearly demonstrate your talent. Consider the opportunity to stand out from the competition.

How Design Resumes can help you stand out

Through my years as a professional resume, I honed my skills in helping job seekers raise the bar and create compelling resumes that capture your resume story and make you stand out from the crowd.

My interactive and consultative style of resume writing using Zoom for our resume writing sessions ensures that you are an integral part of the design and writing of your resume. Your voice and ideas are critical to making your resume your own. My clients are thrilled with the process that allows them to have an outstanding resume that reflects their personality! Learn more.