E-Resumes

    While the components of an effective resume have not changed, technology adds more options for submitting a resume to an employer. These increased options can help streamline the job hunting process.

    What is an electronic resume (e-resume)? Simply stated, it is a resume formatted so it can be sent via e-mail, posted onto the Internet, or scanned into an employer’s database. Since equipment varies greatly, you will need to convert your resume to appropriate formats, depending on the strategy you use. Other technical terms that are used to describe electronic resumes include web resume, scannable resume, keyword resume, and ASCII Text resume.

• A web resume is one created specifically for a personal website and combines HTML with web page design strategies. It is an effective way to showcase your technical and creative skills while presenting your education and experience. Be certain that your entire website as well as your resume projects a professional image.
• A scannable resume is one designed for storing in a database in a format that can be sorted and retrieved from the databank. Scannable resumes should be printed on one side of white paper stock, using 12 to 14 point standard fonts. Photocopies and staples, as well as acronyms, italics, underlining, borders, and graphics should be avoided.
• A keyword resume highlights specific skills and knowledge that the employer is seeking to meet the requirements of a position. Using a search engine, an employer can retrieve resumes that contain the desired keywords. All electronic resumes should include terms and jargon specific to your industry.
• An ASCII Text resume is a scanner-friendly resume that is submitted via e-mail directly to an employer or posted on the Internet. It is a straight text document without any visual enhancements. When sending a resume via e-mail, be sure to cut and paste the resume into the body rather than send it as an attachment. Also, send a copy first to your own e-mail address to check the appearance before sending it to an employer.