Your Resume Isn't Asking for the Job

This week's tip: Stop submitting a passive resume and start making a direct ask.

One of the key mistakes I see talented candidates make is assuming their experience alone will get them the interview.

The idea that a recruiter will perfectly connect the dots on your generic resume is wishful thinking. You have to do the work for them.

From my side of the desk, you should be spending your time tailoring your resume to make a direct and unmissable offer for the specific role you want.

That offer is a clear case for why they should interview you.

Let me show you the difference between a resume that "asks" and one that doesn't:

You can see the dramatic difference. A resume that actively "asks" for the specific job gets a callback 10x more often than a passive one that just lists job duties.

But it's about more than just getting one interview. It's about making a powerful impression, every single time. You're showing the hiring manager that you are the solution to their problem.

I recently received this message from a candidate I'll call Sarah, who shows you the power of this direct approach:

Sarah had been applying for her dream role for months with a generic resume and hearing nothing back. She finally took the advice to tailor her resume for each application, directly "asking" for the job in her summary and achievement bullets. Two weeks later, she had three interviews lined up.

How many hiring managers are out there, waiting to see a resume like yours that finally makes the case?

Don't wait for them to figure it out.

Ask for the job.

Go One Step Further: Ask the Hiring Manager

In addition to asking for the job with your resume, let's take it to the next level. How? By asking the hiring manager directly.

Let's assume you're applying for a Brand Marketing Manager position at Company XYZ.

Head to LinkedIn. Find the Director of Brand Marketing, the VP of Brand Marketing, or possibly even the CMO. Connect with them and include a note.

In your message, tell them you've applied for the role (reference the requisition # if you have it, or just the job title) and that you're keen to interview as soon as possible.

Believe it or not, 9 times out of 10 you get a positive response! It shows initiative and makes their job easier. What have you got to lose?

Join 5,000 job seekers who downloaded our guide and used it to rewrite their resumes to help get noticed and bypass the ATS systems.

You can download it HERE