How technology has changed the resume
The classic resume is a standard of professionalism that has been agreed upon between prospective employees and prospective employers since the dawn of the barter system. The traditional resume typically consists of a white piece of paper, size 12 font, and an easy to read list of skills and accomplishments designed to convince any reader that the author is a talented and skilled worker. However, recent years and economic stress have driven applicants to generally be more creative when formatting their resumes, resulting in some truly ingenious creations. The new technological market has developed a need for creative thinkers. Whether you are creating a resume or reviewing one, here are a few things to consider.
When Creating a ResumeMake your resume as professional as it is creative. Don’t forget that this is a representation of your ability to perform well in the job you are applying for. If you err on the side of being too creative, you might run the risk of leaving out important information about your relevant skills. However, don’t shy away from presenting that information creatively. Here are a few tips to start you off.
- Be multidimensional. Designing your resume as an infographic will help you stand out as well as represent the many layers of your personality. Check out this example: Infographic
- Let your style match your personality. If you work best by yourself, let that be represented in your design. If you work best in a group, let that be represented as well. Take a look at this example: Design and style
- Add some flair. Many businesses take PDF files in place of a hard copy resume. Formatting your resume in new ways allows you to show off your skills and, if applying for a tech-savvy job, could help you land the gig. Here is a great example: Flair
If you’re in the position of reading resumes, especially at a small business, be open to accepting those that are creative and not just a simple list of talent and accomplishment. A creatively designed resume may seem silly and unprofessional, but it tells you a lot about the applicant. It shows that they have the ability to think outside the box, aren’t afraid of taking risks and are clever. These qualities are ones that might be left unrepresented in a classic resume but are also paramount to the success of any business, large or small. Keep in mind that if someone submits a creatively designed resume, they could be an invaluable asset.
As social evolution and technological advancement progress, applicants will find more and more creative ways to present their talents. Being open to exploring these avenues as both creator and audience will allow you to improve your business or career. As in most things in life, keeping an open mind can never hurt.