You could say a paper resume is an analog tool in a digital world. Even people who still use traditional resumes most likely email the files to recruiters.
Many popular devices and websites have almost made it unnecessary to print out your resume. Pinterest, videos, personal websites and LinkedIn are viable resources that you can use in your job search. These new tools can be a bit challenging if you haven’t used them before, so here are some insights on making them work for you.
Pin it
Pinterest is the latest social network to gain an avid following. The site focuses almost exclusively on pictures, and has become a very useful advertising tool for merchants. You can easily refashion a Pinterest profile into a digital resume to garner interest from recruiters.
According to Mashable, you should include all of the content that you would normally send to potential employers in your Pinterest profile. Recommendation letters, your work history, old projects and notable achievements should all be pinned to your page.
They also suggest that you can even create subsections for different skills and training. This feature allows you to highlight all of your talents instead of reducing them to a few words on your paper resume. As with anything, there are several tips to keep in mind when it comes to sharing your pins and making the site work for you.
Always remember that your Pinterest profile is never complete. Similar to your Facebook or Twitter page, you should constantly update your account with relevant information to ensure that prospective employers can see your latest accomplishments.
Videos
In this economy, companies are even more conscious about taking steps to weed out candidates that aren't a personal or professional fit. A simple video is not only a creative way to showcase your skills, but it also lets them see your appearance and personality.
The American Express OPEN Forum points out that videos work best in concert with other channels. Link to your video on Pinterest and LinkedIn and forward the URL to any recruiters that you have emailed your regular resume to.
Personal websites
Videos can also be great additions to your personal website. Instead of compiling large portfolios, some tech-savvy job seekers have designed their own sites complete with their entire work histories. When potential employers want to see previous accomplishments, it is better to have them all stored on one website than to email multiple files.
The best news is you don't even have to know HTML to build a marketable websites. There are plenty of website builders on the web that let you upload, link, drag and drop your content.
LinkedIn
Unlike Pinterest, LinkedIn was designed specifically to connect professionals. Your LinkedIn profile provides recruiters and potential employers with an accessible online resume. You have the ability to showcase what you're looking for, as well as your experience, accomplishments and even more importantly, recommendations from colleagues.
According to CBS News, the headline is the most important feature on your LinkedIn profile. You need a clear, concise statement that tells the reader who you are and what you do in an attention-grabbing manner. Think about your best skills and then work them into a short sentence that helps you stand apart from all the other job seekers. Another very important feature is your picture. Make sure you upload an image that compliments your professional profile.
In a very competitive and changing job market you need to take advantage of the creative and networking resources that your competition is using. Put your personal stamp on these resume alternatives and stand out from the crowd.
Scott Murray is the Social Learning Evangelist for www.TrainUp.com, the web's largest career marketplace. He is also a contributor to the Training Insights Blog, a series of blogs dedicated to career and professional development.
