Frequently Asked Questions
I get a lot of questions about résumés, cover letters, and job searches.
Here are a few of the most common.
What sets you apart from other résumé services and career strategists?
I have been told by clients that they really appreciate my collaborative approach, my professionalism, and my experience.
Unlike most career strategists, I actually have management and hiring experience! I have read hundreds of résumés throughout my career. I know how to read them...and how to read between the lines.
I also have a wide variety of relevant academic and work experience in sales, journalism, marketing, creative writing, and life coaching.
More than fifteen years of experience drafting résumés helps too. All of this experience benefits my clients. My experience can benefit you as well!
I'm concerned about Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS); how do I know my résumé will get read by a real person?
Technology has really changed the way in which applicants engage with prospective employers. The "human element" is almost gone in some cases.
There are some very strategic ways to get noticed, and my approach varies by situation, to say the least.
The short answer: there ARE ways to get noticed. Each situation is unique, so my specific advice will vary.
Do you recommend any special résumé writing software?
No.
Special "résumé" software is problematic for several reasons. Software cannot replace having a real expert review both the content and style of your documents.
Why should I hire a professional to write and edit my résumé?
Ask yourself one question: are you getting the interview opportunities you deserve? If not, it's probably time to hire a professional to help you get your foot in the door!
As a professional résumé writer (who also has real hiring experience), I have helped many customers get the interviews they deserve.
What is the best type of résumé?
There are many types to choose from: chronological, executive, reverse chronological, functional, targeted, combination, and hybrid.
On top of that, there is the age old question of whether a one-page or a two-page résumé is more appropriate.
So the answer is...it depends!
A résumé is a very special, critical document that can be influenced by several factors including:
(a) experience of the client/applicant
(b) the industry (or industries) involved
(c) personal preferences
(d) standard business conventions.
Are résumés still relevant today considering social media?
Yes!
Now more than ever, a well-written résumé is a crucial piece of your portfolio -- your personal brand.
While some experts claim the "traditional" résumé is unnecessary considering LinkedIn, video résumés, etc., the classic résumé is the cornerstone and foundation of your branding. It should be excellent!
Why did you name your business Olympic Résumé?
The beautiful Olympic Mountains here in Washington State are a true inspiration. Mount Olympus in Greece (the fabled home of the Olympian Gods) is also part of the inspiration.
What is your turnaround time?
I can meet the most aggressive deadlines. Regardless of deadline, the final product will be excellent.
Is social media a useful modality to employ in my job search?
Social media websites, software, and apps are ubiquitous.
LinkedIn, Twitter, Myspace, Pinterest, and Facebook can all be effective tools to employ in your job search.
They can also be liabilities.
Several variables are involved: your tolerance for reduced online privacy, your software fluency, and your goals.
My specific advice is a bit different for each client, but I lean towards championing a well-planned social media presence.
How can I navigate pre-employment social media background screening policies?
Now, more than ever, employers are searching the Internet for intel on prospective employees. This makes perfect sense for employers; however, job seekers must be careful about their online presence and personal brand.
Regardless of a client's background, I offer coaching and tips that help with this issue.
Can you help me use LinkedIn?
Absolutely! With more than 900 million members worldwide (as of 2023), LinkedIn is often a powerful component of a career search campaign.
"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."
-- Benjamin Franklin