In hi-tech environment, image scanner is now a state-of-the-art computer
system to increase efficiency in storing and retrieving resume information. Many
companies are using artificial intelligence capabilities to scan resume
optically in to the computer system as an image. The computer then reads each
resume and creates a database of the applicant's relevant skills, degrees and
achievements in the form of key words. Companies now can access a candidate's
resume by searching for keywords. So, at the center of the technology are
keywords.
A sample job order might require:
* Five years' experience
* Graduate degree
* Heavy traveler
*
Self-starter
* Team leader
Supplied with these specifications, a computer checks database for resume
that include these keywords. The secret is to fill your resume with as many
keywords as possible. The ultimate keywords come from each company for each
position. You can only make reasonable assumptions about what a specific
company will ask for. You need to maintain a log of keywords that apply to your
occupation and industry. Jot d own the words as you come across them in trade
magazines, newspaper ads, especially the company's own ads or postings.
1. Polishing Your Keywords Skills
Looking up information in the Yellow Pages or a library file uses the same
skill necessary to write good keywords. Choose nouns that indicate your
accomplishments rather than verbs that focus on duties.
Even a resume with very strong content, one which includes all of the
keywords t hat describe your occupational credentials, can be overlooked.
Consequently, th e keywords in an electronic resume is organized into two
sections. The first is a Keywords Preface; the second is the main body of the
resume The Keyword Preface or Summary appears directly beneath your name and
contact in formation at the top of your resume. It is an inventory of your most
important assets. It runs about 20 to 30 items and each item is capitalized and
ends with a period. Cover three points in selecting your items:
* Your skills, abilities and competencies;
* Your experience using those
skills, abilities and competencies; and
* Your accomplishments in using
those skills, abilities and competencies on-the- job.
2. Maximizing Potential Employment Opportunities
To maximize potential employment opportunities, it is important for you to
prepare to submit an effective scanner-friendly resume. Rewrite your resume by
using the following guidelines for format and content.
* Keep it simple.
* Standard serif and sans serif fonts like Helvetica
work best.
* Use sizes between 10 and 14 points type size.
* Avoid
Italics, script and underlining since they cause problems for the scanners,
especially when they are combined.
* Use boldface or ALL CAPITAL LETTERS for
emphasis.
* Use horizontal and vertical lines sparingly and allow 1/4" of
space around the m.
* Avoid graphics and shading or shadowing.
* Do not
compress or expand space between letters or lines.
* Do not double space
with sections.
* Submit the original resume.
* It should be printed with
a 24-pin letter-quality or laser printer.
* Print on one side only and on
white or light colored 8 1/2" x 11" paper.
* Do not staple or fold it since
it will not be scanned well.
* Remember to describe your skills and
accomplishments in keywords.
3. Use Nouns Instead of Action Verbs
Nouns are easier to be distinguished by a computer than action verbs. Always
label yourself with phrases that describe activities or experiences. Focus on
accomplishments and results rather than on duties and responsibilities. For
instance, use "managed training and development" instead of "trained and dev
eloped."
4. Sample of a scanner-friendly resume
(Name)
(Address)