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All right, everybody, let's dive into something we all have to deal with.

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Resumes.

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You know, that thing that can make or break your chances of landing a dream job.

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We found this really interesting article and it starts off with this feeling.

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And I know we can all relate to this.

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It's that feeling when you're staring at a blank page.

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And you know, this resume needs to be amazing.

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But you have no idea even where to start.

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It's like writer's block, but with like your entire career on the line.

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Exactly.

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And this article talks about how the author finally got past that.

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They were talking about feeling like their resume was just a plain bagel.

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I mean, it's fine.

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It's there, but it's not really exciting.

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Anyone just kind of blends in, you know.

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Yeah.

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And it's interesting because that feeling isn't just about like being creative.

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It's something deeper, like the psychology of first impressions before someone even

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reads a word on your resume, the visual impact.

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It says a lot.

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Right.

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So this author, they decided to try to find a way to spice up their resume.

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And they found this giant bundle of templates over 90 of them called the

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Judo plus 90 mega CV resume templates bundle.

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I got to admit, at first it felt a little overwhelming.

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Yeah, I can see that a lot of people, when they hear the word template, they

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think it's just about making things look pretty, but a good template.

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It's so much more than that.

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It's about organization, clarity, making sure the important information stands

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out to whoever is reading it.

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Yeah.

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And it seems like this bundle gets that one thing I noticed, it comes in all

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these different formats, PSD, AI and PDF.

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I know what a PDF is, but those other two, I'm not so sure.

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Right.

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Well, that's smart.

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It makes it accessible to people with different levels of design experience.

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So PSD, that's the format for Photoshop.

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That's kind of the standard for image editing.

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And then AI, that's for illustrator.

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It's for vector graphics.

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You know, those are the ones you can scale up without them getting all blurry.

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And of course, PDF, that's like the universal document language.

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It's easy for anyone to open and read.

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So you don't have to be some tech genius to use these.

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And speaking of using them, the author got some pretty impressive results.

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Landed their dream marketing job after using one of these templates.

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Is that just a coincidence?

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Or could a nice looking resume really make that much of a difference?

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Well, I don't know if we can say it was the only reason, but it does make you

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think about confidence, you know, having a well-designed resume.

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It can give you a boost because you know, you've presented yourself professionally

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you feel more prepared, more in control.

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Yeah, it's kind of like that dress for success thing, but for your resume.

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Exactly.

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You're projecting an image like someone who takes their career seriously.

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And that first impression, especially in a competitive job market,

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that can make all the difference.

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And it wasn't just the author who had success with these.

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They mentioned helping out some friends.

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One was a freelancer.

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They were having trouble showing all their different skills in a way that made sense.

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And the other was a graphic designer.

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And they wanted a resume that was not just a graphic designer,

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you know, showed off their creativity, but without going overboard.

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Right.

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And that brings up an important question.

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What are all the different types of resumes out there?

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And when should you use each one?

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Like the author's friends.

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They needed resumes that were tailored to their unique situation.

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The freelancer needed to emphasize how adaptable they are.

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And the graphic designer, they could use their resume to show off their visual skills.

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So there's no one right way to do it.

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You got to find the right format for your own story.

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One thing I liked, the author mentioned that these templates,

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it's a one time purchase, no subscription fees, which is nice.

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Everything wants you to subscribe these days.

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Yeah, I know.

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I mean, it's nice to see something that's just a one time thing,

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like you invest in it once and you can use it throughout your entire career.

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That's a good value.

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And speaking of value, they mentioned a commercial license.

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So you could, like hypothetically, use these templates to start a side hustle.

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Like as a resume designer.

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Oh, that's interesting.

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If you have a good eye for design and you understand what makes a resume stand out,

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that could be a good way to make some extra money and help people at the same time.

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It's taking a personal solution and turning it into a business.

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Yeah, there you go.

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But beyond the business side, the author also told this story about helping a family member

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who hadn't applied for a job in over 10 years.

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They felt totally lost.

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But the templates helped them create a resume that boosted their confidence.

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And they even got a few interviews.

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Wow.

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It just shows you a resume.

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It's more than just a piece of paper.

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It's a way for someone to show their skills, their experience, their potential.

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A good resume can make you feel more confident, remind you what you've accomplished.

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It can be a real symbol of moving forward in your career.

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And sometimes that emotional impact, it could be just as important as actually

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getting the job.

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But we shouldn't forget about the practical stuff.

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The author mentioned all these details.

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A4 size, 300 DPI, CMYK color mode.

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Honestly, those terms sound like a foreign language to me.

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Ha, ha. You're not alone.

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Those are those technical things that most people don't think about until they

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print out their resume and it looks all pixelated.

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So A4, that's the standard paper size in most of the world.

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300 DPI, that just means it's a high resolution image.

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So it looks good both on screen and printed out.

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And CMYK, that's the color model that professional printers use.

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Ah, OK.

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So it's all about making sure your resume looks good, no matter how someone's

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looking at it.

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Like the difference between wearing a wrinkled shirt to an interview.

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Yeah. Versus a nice crisp one.

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Exactly. Details matter.

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And speaking of details, I forgot.

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The author mentioned matching cover letter templates.

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Oh, yeah, it's like the perfect pair.

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Yeah.

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Think of it like a power suit for your job application.

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A cover letter that matches your resume visually.

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It shows that you pay attention to detail, that you're professional.

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It creates a cohesive look, a memorable impression.

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It can really make you stand out.

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It's like that saying the devil's in the details.

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But in this case, it's the details that could land you the job.

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So we've talked a lot about templates and visuals.

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It's easy to get caught up in how things look.

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But what about the actual content of the resume?

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What should people be thinking about there?

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That's a great point.

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A fancy design might get someone's attention, but it's the content that really

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sells your skills and experience.

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And this is where things get interesting.

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Have you ever heard of applicant tracking systems?

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Or ATS?

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Ooh, that sounds kind of scary, like something out of a sci-fi movie.

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Ha ha. Well, in a way, they are.

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ATS are these software programs that a lot of companies use to filter through

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all the resumes they get.

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They scan for keywords, skills, experience that matches the job description.

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Think of it like a digital gatekeeper.

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So you basically have to speak the ATS's language

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if you even want a chance of a human seeing your resume.

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Exactly. And that's where keywords become so important.

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You need to really look at the job

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description and use those keywords throughout your resume.

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But you can't just shove them in randomly.

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You have to weave them into your experience and achievements so it feels natural.

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So it's like this balancing act, appealing to the robot overlords,

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but also showing off your unique human skills.

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I like that analogy.

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It's about finding that sweet spot where you're highlighting your qualifications

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in a way that both the ATS and a human recruiter will appreciate.

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And that leads to another important point, tailoring your resume to the specific job

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and industry you're going for.

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Right. You can't just use the same generic resume for every job.

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Exactly. Each job has its own requirements, its own expectations.

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You need to take some time to research the company, understand their values,

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their culture, and then adjust your resume to show how your skills and experience

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align with what they're looking for.

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So it's all about personalization, showing that you've actually thought about

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why you want this job at this company.

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Precisely. That extra effort, it shows that you're not just going through the motions,

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that you're genuinely interested, and that can really make a good impression.

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Now, let's talk about something that everyone dreads, the career summary.

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Yes. That paragraph at the top of the resume.

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Yeah.

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Where you're supposed to summarize your entire life in like three sentences.

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I know, right. But when it's done well, a career summary can be incredibly powerful.

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It's your elevator pitch, your chance to grab the reader's attention

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and make them want to keep reading.

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OK, but how do you make it stand out?

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I've seen so many career summaries that are just filled with buzzwords

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and they all sound the same.

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The key is to focus on your unique value proposition.

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What are your top skills, your biggest accomplishments?

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What are you most passionate about?

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And how can you tie those things together in a way that's relevant to the job

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you're applying for?

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So it's not just listing your skills.

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It's about framing them in a way that tells the story and highlights what you can bring to the table.

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Exactly. Think of it like a movie trailer.

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You want to give them a taste of the excitement, the intrigue,

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make them want to see the whole movie by reading your whole resume.

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I like that.

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So we've talked about keywords, tailoring your resume, crafting a good career summary.

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What other content tips should people keep in mind?

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Well, one of the most common mistakes I see is using vague language and not

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quantifying achievements instead of saying managed a team, say, let a team of 10

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to exceed sales targets by 15 percent.

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Oh, so it's about showing, not just telling.

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Numbers are more powerful than words.

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Exactly. Whenever you can use concrete examples and data to back up your claims,

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it makes you more credible and helps the hiring manager see the impact you made.

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OK, so quantify, quantify, quantify, got it.

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But what about people who haven't been in jobs where it's easy to quantify their achievements?

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Like if you've been in more of a support role or create a field where it's not

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always about hitting specific numbers.

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That's a great point.

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And it's why soft skills are so important.

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Things like communication, problem solving, teamwork, adaptability,

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all those qualities that make you a valuable asset, even if you're not directly

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bringing in revenue.

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So it's not just about what you did, but how you did it.

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Exactly. And you can show those skills by using strong action verbs and giving

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specific examples of how you've used those skills in your previous roles.

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For instance, instead of saying excellent communication skills, you could say

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facilitated weekly team meetings to improve communication and collaboration.

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Ah, I see.

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So it's about painting a picture of your skills in action.

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Precisely. And don't be afraid to get creative with your wording.

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The goal is to make your resume stand out and leave a lasting impression.

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So it's about finding that balance between being professional and being yourself.

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Speaking of being yourself,

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a lot of people think their resume has to be super formal and stuffy.

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Is that true?

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It really depends on the industry and the company culture.

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But in general, I think it's OK to let your personality shine through a little,

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especially in creative fields.

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Right. Like if you're applying to be a copyrighted or your designer,

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you probably don't want your resume to sound like a robot wrote it.

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Exactly. In those cases, it's more about showing your voice, your style.

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Right.

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But even in more traditional fields, you can still show some personality in the

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way you describe your experiences, the language you use.

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So it's about finding that sweet spot

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between professionalism and authenticity,

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which brings us back to the visuals,

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because even if the content is amazing, if it's presented in a way that's hard

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to read or just not visually appealing, it's not going to have the impact you want.

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You're absolutely right.

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It's like a delicious meal that's been plated poorly, no matter how good the food

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is, if it doesn't look appetizing, no one's going to want to eat it.

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Uh huh. That's a perfect analogy.

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So what are some things people should keep in mind

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when it comes to the visual side of their resume?

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Well, the most important thing is readability.

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Use a clear font.

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Make sure there's plenty of white space to give the reader's eyes break.

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00:11:30,380 --> 00:11:32,460
Right. No one wants to struggle through a wall of text.

247
00:11:32,660 --> 00:11:37,580
Exactly. And think about using visual elements to break up the text and highlight

248
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important information, things like bullet points, bolding, headings.

249
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Those can make a big difference.

250
00:11:44,060 --> 00:11:47,500
And making your resume easy to skim and understand.

251
00:11:47,700 --> 00:11:49,740
So it's about creating a visual hierarchy.

252
00:11:49,940 --> 00:11:53,340
Precisely. The goal is to make your resume easy to navigate.

253
00:11:53,540 --> 00:11:57,300
You want the hiring manager to be able to find the information they need quickly

254
00:11:57,500 --> 00:11:58,940
without having to hunt for it.

255
00:11:59,140 --> 00:12:02,780
So it's about finding that balance between aesthetics and functionality.

256
00:12:02,980 --> 00:12:05,900
Exactly. And while we've been talking a lot about templates,

257
00:12:06,100 --> 00:12:09,900
you don't necessarily need one to create a visually appealing resume.

258
00:12:09,900 --> 00:12:11,420
Right. Not everyone is a designer.

259
00:12:11,420 --> 00:12:15,500
Absolutely. There are plenty of other resources out there, online resume builders,

260
00:12:15,700 --> 00:12:19,060
or even just using the formatting tools in a word processing program.

261
00:12:19,260 --> 00:12:21,340
The key is to find what works best for you.

262
00:12:21,540 --> 00:12:23,940
Exactly. And don't be afraid to experiment.

263
00:12:24,140 --> 00:12:29,100
Try different layouts, fonts, formatting options until you find something you like.

264
00:12:29,300 --> 00:12:30,620
So it's about having fun with it.

265
00:12:30,820 --> 00:12:33,820
Absolutely. Because your resume is a reflection of you.

266
00:12:34,020 --> 00:12:35,420
So it should be something you're proud of.

267
00:12:35,620 --> 00:12:36,420
I love that.

268
00:12:36,620 --> 00:12:39,740
And speaking of being proud of your resume, one thing we haven't talked about

269
00:12:39,740 --> 00:12:41,660
is getting feedback from other people.

270
00:12:41,860 --> 00:12:42,860
That's so important.

271
00:12:43,060 --> 00:12:44,460
And a lot of people forget to do it.

272
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A fresh pair of eyes can catch typos, inconsistencies,

273
00:12:49,220 --> 00:12:51,780
places where you could improve your wording or clarity.

274
00:12:51,780 --> 00:12:53,420
It's like having another set of taste buds

275
00:12:53,620 --> 00:12:55,820
to make sure your resume is perfectly seasoned.

276
00:12:56,020 --> 00:12:57,140
I love that analogy.

277
00:12:57,340 --> 00:13:01,980
It's about getting that outside perspective to make sure your resume is as strong as possible.

278
00:13:02,180 --> 00:13:03,820
So who should you ask for feedback?

279
00:13:04,020 --> 00:13:07,140
Friends, family, career advisors.

280
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All of the above.

281
00:13:08,540 --> 00:13:12,820
And don't be afraid to reach out to people in your network who work in your field.

282
00:13:13,020 --> 00:13:16,940
They can give you valuable insights into what hiring managers are looking for

283
00:13:17,140 --> 00:13:20,220
and how to tailor your resume to specific jobs.

284
00:13:20,420 --> 00:13:21,900
So it's about using your connections.

285
00:13:22,100 --> 00:13:25,260
Exactly. Because in the end, creating a great resume is a team effort.

286
00:13:25,460 --> 00:13:27,180
I love that. So we've covered a lot today.

287
00:13:27,380 --> 00:13:31,940
Keywords, ATS optimization, visual presentation, getting feedback.

288
00:13:32,140 --> 00:13:35,020
But before we wrap up, I want to go back to something we talked about earlier.

289
00:13:35,220 --> 00:13:37,660
The why behind your job search.

290
00:13:37,660 --> 00:13:40,900
Yes, it's easy to get caught up in all the details,

291
00:13:41,100 --> 00:13:47,460
but it's so important to remember your resume is a tool to help you achieve your professional goals.

292
00:13:47,660 --> 00:13:49,700
It's like having a fancy sports car.

293
00:13:49,900 --> 00:13:52,380
It's great to have all the bells and whistles.

294
00:13:52,580 --> 00:13:55,900
But if you don't know where you're going, it's not going to get you very far.

295
00:13:56,100 --> 00:13:58,500
Exactly. So when you're working on your resume,

296
00:13:58,700 --> 00:14:02,540
take some time to think about your values, your passions, your vision for the future,

297
00:14:02,740 --> 00:14:06,540
what kind of work really excites you, what kind of impact do you want to make?

298
00:14:06,540 --> 00:14:11,500
Because when you're clear on your why, your resume becomes more than just a document.

299
00:14:11,500 --> 00:14:13,460
It becomes a roadmap for your career.

300
00:14:13,660 --> 00:14:18,180
It becomes a declaration of intent, a stepping stone on your path to professional fulfillment

301
00:14:18,380 --> 00:14:19,980
and that sense of purpose.

302
00:14:20,180 --> 00:14:25,460
It will show in every part of your resume, from the content to the way you present yourself.

303
00:14:25,660 --> 00:14:29,540
And that authenticity, that's what will really resonate with potential employers.

304
00:14:29,740 --> 00:14:31,980
Because they're not just looking for someone with the right skills.

305
00:14:32,180 --> 00:14:35,580
They're looking for someone who is passionate, driven,

306
00:14:35,580 --> 00:14:37,740
someone who shares their company's value.

307
00:14:37,940 --> 00:14:40,580
Precisely. So as you start your job search,

308
00:14:40,780 --> 00:14:44,260
remember that you are not just a list of skills and experiences.

309
00:14:44,460 --> 00:14:51,700
You are a unique individual with a story to tell, a vision to share, a contribution to make.

310
00:14:51,900 --> 00:14:57,300
I love that. And on that note, I think it's time to shift gears a bit and talk about

311
00:14:57,500 --> 00:15:02,340
something that could be a little tricky for job seekers, online resumes and personal branding.

312
00:15:02,340 --> 00:15:08,140
Ah, yes, the digital age. It's brought a whole new set of challenges and opportunities.

313
00:15:08,340 --> 00:15:10,980
When it comes to presenting yourself professionally online.

314
00:15:10,980 --> 00:15:14,300
It's at the Wild West out there. So many from platforms, so many strategies.

315
00:15:14,500 --> 00:15:18,580
Exactly. And with social media being so big, your online presence,

316
00:15:18,780 --> 00:15:21,500
it's almost as important as your traditional resume.

317
00:15:21,700 --> 00:15:23,820
So it's not just about what's on paper anymore.

318
00:15:24,020 --> 00:15:26,100
It's about creating a whole online brand.

319
00:15:26,300 --> 00:15:27,820
That reflects your skills and values.

320
00:15:28,020 --> 00:15:31,380
Precisely. And that's what makes it so interesting because now you're not just talking

321
00:15:31,380 --> 00:15:34,020
to potential employers, you're talking to the whole world.

322
00:15:34,220 --> 00:15:36,460
So you have to be careful about your digital footprint.

323
00:15:36,660 --> 00:15:40,180
Make sure you're presenting yourself in a way that's both authentic and professional.

324
00:15:40,380 --> 00:15:42,700
Exactly. And that brings up a lot of questions.

325
00:15:42,700 --> 00:15:44,220
What platforms should you be on?

326
00:15:44,220 --> 00:15:46,100
What kind of content should you share?

327
00:15:46,300 --> 00:15:49,660
How do you find that balance between personal and professional?

328
00:15:49,860 --> 00:15:52,620
Oh, we could probably do a whole deep dive just on that.

329
00:15:52,820 --> 00:15:57,900
Definitely could. But for now, let's focus on some of the key things to keep in mind.

330
00:15:57,900 --> 00:16:02,340
When you're creating an online resume and building your personal brand.

331
00:16:02,540 --> 00:16:04,620
Sounds good. So where do we even begin?

332
00:16:04,820 --> 00:16:08,380
Well, the first step is to look at your current online presence.

333
00:16:08,580 --> 00:16:14,340
Do you have a LinkedIn profile, a personal website, active social media accounts?

334
00:16:14,540 --> 00:16:18,020
Because chances are potential employers are already googling you.

335
00:16:18,220 --> 00:16:21,220
Oh, absolutely. They want to see who you are beyond your resume.

336
00:16:21,420 --> 00:16:24,460
Get a sense of your personality, your interests, your values.

337
00:16:24,660 --> 00:16:27,580
You're creating a digital identity that matches your professional

338
00:16:27,580 --> 00:16:29,140
goals. Precisely.

339
00:16:29,140 --> 00:16:32,460
And that doesn't mean you have to be perfectly polished and professional all the time.

340
00:16:32,660 --> 00:16:34,660
Actually, a little bit of personality can help.

341
00:16:34,660 --> 00:16:37,260
It makes you more relatable, more memorable.

342
00:16:37,260 --> 00:16:42,540
Right. It's about finding that balance between being authentic and showing your best self.

343
00:16:42,740 --> 00:16:45,780
Exactly. And when it comes to creating an online resume,

344
00:16:45,980 --> 00:16:47,700
there are a few different approaches you can take.

345
00:16:47,700 --> 00:16:48,380
Like what?

346
00:16:48,380 --> 00:16:51,580
Well, some people like to create a dedicated website,

347
00:16:51,580 --> 00:16:53,580
like a digital portfolio of their work.

348
00:16:53,580 --> 00:16:57,140
This is great for creative people who want to show off their skills

349
00:16:57,140 --> 00:16:58,700
in a visually interesting way.

350
00:16:58,700 --> 00:17:00,180
So it's like an online gallery.

351
00:17:00,180 --> 00:17:01,380
Exactly.

352
00:17:01,380 --> 00:17:05,260
And you can use your website to share your resume, blog posts, testimonials,

353
00:17:05,260 --> 00:17:06,260
contact information.

354
00:17:06,260 --> 00:17:07,340
It's like a one-stop shop.

355
00:17:07,340 --> 00:17:08,540
Precisely.

356
00:17:08,540 --> 00:17:12,500
Another popular option is to use professional networking sites like LinkedIn.

357
00:17:12,500 --> 00:17:14,300
Ah, LinkedIn.

358
00:17:14,300 --> 00:17:16,860
The social media platform everyone loves to hate.

359
00:17:16,860 --> 00:17:18,300
I know, right?

360
00:17:18,300 --> 00:17:22,780
But even though the interface can be clunky and there's a lot of self-promotion going on,

361
00:17:22,780 --> 00:17:25,980
LinkedIn can be a really valuable tool for job seekers.

362
00:17:25,980 --> 00:17:29,020
Yeah, I mean, it's a huge database of professionals and companies.

363
00:17:29,020 --> 00:17:29,740
Exactly.

364
00:17:29,740 --> 00:17:33,340
And you can use your LinkedIn profile to connect with people in your industry,

365
00:17:33,340 --> 00:17:36,180
research companies, even apply for jobs.

366
00:17:36,180 --> 00:17:38,460
It's like a 247 networking event.

367
00:17:38,460 --> 00:17:39,460
Exactly.

368
00:17:39,460 --> 00:17:41,180
And just like with your traditional resume,

369
00:17:41,180 --> 00:17:43,900
it's important to make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date.

370
00:17:43,900 --> 00:17:46,260
Well-written, visually appealing.

371
00:17:46,260 --> 00:17:48,420
Right. First impressions matter.

372
00:17:48,420 --> 00:17:49,420
Even online.

373
00:17:49,420 --> 00:17:50,180
Absolutely.

374
00:17:50,180 --> 00:17:51,820
And when it comes to personal branding,

375
00:17:51,820 --> 00:17:55,820
one of the most important things is to be consistent across all platforms.

376
00:17:55,820 --> 00:18:00,540
So your LinkedIn profile should match your website and your social media accounts.

377
00:18:00,540 --> 00:18:01,540
Precisely.

378
00:18:01,540 --> 00:18:04,340
You want to create a cohesive online identity.

379
00:18:04,340 --> 00:18:07,300
That represents who you are, what you stand for.

380
00:18:07,300 --> 00:18:08,740
So you have to be intentional.

381
00:18:08,740 --> 00:18:09,500
Exactly.

382
00:18:09,500 --> 00:18:12,540
And remember, your online brand is always evolving.

383
00:18:12,540 --> 00:18:15,900
As you learn new skills, gain new experience,

384
00:18:15,900 --> 00:18:20,460
you need to update your profiles and share content that reflects your growth.

385
00:18:20,460 --> 00:18:22,140
So it's an ongoing process.

386
00:18:22,140 --> 00:18:22,860
Exactly.

387
00:18:22,860 --> 00:18:26,300
And it can be a lot of work, but it's definitely worth it.

388
00:18:26,300 --> 00:18:27,340
I agree.

389
00:18:27,340 --> 00:18:32,420
Because in today's world, your online presence can really make or break your career.

390
00:18:32,420 --> 00:18:33,020
Absolutely.

391
00:18:33,020 --> 00:18:37,460
So invest the time and effort to create a strong online brand.

392
00:18:37,460 --> 00:18:39,940
And you'll be amazed at the opportunities that come your way.

393
00:18:39,940 --> 00:18:41,700
Yeah. It really is a whole new ballgame.

394
00:18:41,700 --> 00:18:42,180
It is.

395
00:18:42,180 --> 00:18:43,900
And it's something that a lot of people struggle with,

396
00:18:43,900 --> 00:18:46,060
especially if you've been out of the job market for a while.

397
00:18:46,060 --> 00:18:46,380
Right.

398
00:18:46,380 --> 00:18:48,540
Like that family member, the author was talking about.

399
00:18:48,540 --> 00:18:49,500
Exactly.

400
00:18:49,500 --> 00:18:53,060
It can be overwhelming to try to catch up on all the latest trends.

401
00:18:53,060 --> 00:18:57,900
So what are some of the biggest changes people should be aware of?

402
00:18:57,900 --> 00:19:00,340
Well, one of the most significant shifts

403
00:19:00,340 --> 00:19:03,660
has been the move towards online applications

404
00:19:03,660 --> 00:19:07,060
and the use of applicant tracking systems, or ATS.

405
00:19:07,060 --> 00:19:08,540
We talked about ATS a bit earlier.

406
00:19:08,540 --> 00:19:11,740
Right. And it's something that every job seeker needs to understand.

407
00:19:11,740 --> 00:19:15,620
Because these systems are essentially the gatekeepers to most jobs these days.

408
00:19:15,620 --> 00:19:16,660
So how do they work?

409
00:19:16,660 --> 00:19:20,380
Basically, when you submit your resume online,

410
00:19:20,380 --> 00:19:23,940
it's often scanned by an ATS, which is a software program that looks

411
00:19:23,940 --> 00:19:28,500
for keywords, skills, and experience that match the job description.

412
00:19:28,500 --> 00:19:30,340
So it's like a digital headhunter.

413
00:19:30,340 --> 00:19:31,420
In a way, yes.

414
00:19:31,420 --> 00:19:33,900
But instead of a human being looking at your resume,

415
00:19:33,900 --> 00:19:35,180
it's a computer program.

416
00:19:35,180 --> 00:19:37,500
And if your resume doesn't have the right keywords,

417
00:19:37,500 --> 00:19:39,420
it might never even get seen by a human.

418
00:19:39,420 --> 00:19:40,820
Oh, wow. That's kind of scary.

419
00:19:40,820 --> 00:19:41,660
It can be.

420
00:19:41,660 --> 00:19:45,780
But the good news is there are ways to optimize your resume for ATS.

421
00:19:45,780 --> 00:19:49,220
Well, the first step is to carefully analyze the job description

422
00:19:49,220 --> 00:19:53,220
and highlight all the key skills and qualifications they're looking for.

423
00:19:53,220 --> 00:19:57,340
Then make sure those keywords are included in your resume,

424
00:19:57,340 --> 00:19:59,540
in a natural and organic way, of course.

425
00:19:59,540 --> 00:20:01,900
Right. You don't want to just stuff your resume with keywords.

426
00:20:01,900 --> 00:20:05,100
Exactly. It needs to read well for humans, too.

427
00:20:05,100 --> 00:20:08,420
But by strategically using relevant keywords,

428
00:20:08,420 --> 00:20:12,340
you can increase the chances of your resume getting past the ATS

429
00:20:12,340 --> 00:20:14,900
and into the hands of a hiring manager.

430
00:20:14,900 --> 00:20:16,340
So it was like a balancing act.

431
00:20:16,340 --> 00:20:19,820
It is. You have to appeal to both the machines and the humans.

432
00:20:19,820 --> 00:20:23,180
I guess that's just the reality of job searching in the digital age.

433
00:20:23,180 --> 00:20:24,180
It is.

434
00:20:24,180 --> 00:20:26,660
But don't worry. It's not as complicated as it sounds.

435
00:20:26,660 --> 00:20:28,780
Once you understand how ATS work,

436
00:20:28,780 --> 00:20:32,140
you can easily adapt your resume to improve your chances of getting noticed.

437
00:20:32,140 --> 00:20:34,020
Okay. That makes me feel a little better.

438
00:20:34,020 --> 00:20:38,020
So aside from ATS, what are some other things job seekers should keep in mind?

439
00:20:38,020 --> 00:20:41,060
Well, another big change has been the rise of social media

440
00:20:41,060 --> 00:20:43,140
and the importance of personal branding.

441
00:20:43,140 --> 00:20:45,260
Right. It's not just about your resume anymore.

442
00:20:45,260 --> 00:20:46,260
Exactly.

443
00:20:46,260 --> 00:20:49,460
Potential employers are now looking at your online presence as well.

444
00:20:49,460 --> 00:20:51,940
Your LinkedIn profile, your social media accounts.

445
00:20:51,940 --> 00:20:54,860
They want to get a sense of who you are as a person,

446
00:20:54,860 --> 00:20:57,300
not just a list of skills and experiences.

447
00:20:57,300 --> 00:21:00,300
So it's like you have to create a whole online persona.

448
00:21:00,300 --> 00:21:02,020
In a way, yes.

449
00:21:02,020 --> 00:21:05,820
You need to be mindful of the image you're projecting online,

450
00:21:05,820 --> 00:21:08,180
because it can definitely impact your job prospects.

451
00:21:08,180 --> 00:21:11,460
But what are some tips for building a strong online brand?

452
00:21:11,460 --> 00:21:15,220
Well, the fee step is to be strategic about the platforms you use.

453
00:21:15,220 --> 00:21:18,260
For most professionals, LinkedIn is a must-have.

454
00:21:18,260 --> 00:21:22,060
It's the go-to platform for networking, job searching,

455
00:21:22,060 --> 00:21:24,260
and building your professional reputation.

456
00:21:24,260 --> 00:21:26,780
Yeah. I've heard a lot of people say that LinkedIn is the new resume.

457
00:21:26,780 --> 00:21:28,700
It's definitely becoming more and more important.

458
00:21:28,700 --> 00:21:30,660
So if you don't have a LinkedIn profile yet,

459
00:21:30,660 --> 00:21:33,620
I highly recommend creating one and make sure it's up to date.

460
00:21:33,620 --> 00:21:34,620
Complete.

461
00:21:34,620 --> 00:21:38,140
And showcases your skills and experience in the best possible light.

462
00:21:38,140 --> 00:21:39,820
So LinkedIn is essential.

463
00:21:39,820 --> 00:21:41,460
What about other social media platforms?

464
00:21:41,460 --> 00:21:44,140
It depends on your industry and your target audience.

465
00:21:44,140 --> 00:21:47,540
For some professions, having an active presence on Twitter,

466
00:21:47,540 --> 00:21:51,060
Instagram, or Facebook can be beneficial.

467
00:21:51,060 --> 00:21:54,020
But for others, it might not be as relevant.

468
00:21:54,020 --> 00:21:56,500
So it's all about tailoring your online presence

469
00:21:56,500 --> 00:21:58,340
to your specific career goals.

470
00:21:58,340 --> 00:22:02,820
Exactly. And remember, everything you post online

471
00:22:02,820 --> 00:22:04,860
is a reflection of your personal brand.

472
00:22:04,860 --> 00:22:07,100
So be mindful of the content you're sharing

473
00:22:07,100 --> 00:22:09,900
and make sure to align with the image you want to project.

474
00:22:09,900 --> 00:22:11,780
So it's not just about what you say.

475
00:22:11,780 --> 00:22:13,020
It's about how you say it.

476
00:22:13,020 --> 00:22:14,100
Absolutely.

477
00:22:14,100 --> 00:22:15,980
And it's also about being consistent.

478
00:22:15,980 --> 00:22:19,380
Make sure your messaging is similar across all platforms

479
00:22:19,380 --> 00:22:22,500
so that potential employers get a clear and consistent picture

480
00:22:22,500 --> 00:22:23,580
of who you are.

481
00:22:23,580 --> 00:22:24,780
That makes sense.

482
00:22:24,780 --> 00:22:28,700
So we've talked about ATS, social media, personal branding.

483
00:22:28,700 --> 00:22:31,060
Is there anything else job seekers should be aware of?

484
00:22:31,060 --> 00:22:32,340
Well, one last thing I want to mention

485
00:22:32,340 --> 00:22:34,340
is the importance of networking.

486
00:22:34,340 --> 00:22:36,020
I feel like networking is one of those things

487
00:22:36,020 --> 00:22:37,100
that everyone talks about.

488
00:22:37,100 --> 00:22:38,100
Yeah.

489
00:22:38,100 --> 00:22:39,980
But no one really knows how to do it effectively.

490
00:22:39,980 --> 00:22:40,860
I know, right?

491
00:22:40,860 --> 00:22:43,180
It can feel really awkward and intimidating,

492
00:22:43,180 --> 00:22:44,780
especially if you're an introvert.

493
00:22:44,780 --> 00:22:48,900
But the truth is, networking is essential for career success.

494
00:22:48,900 --> 00:22:51,540
Because in today's job market, it's not always

495
00:22:51,540 --> 00:22:52,900
about what you know.

496
00:22:52,900 --> 00:22:53,980
It's about who you know.

497
00:22:53,980 --> 00:22:55,580
So how do you network effectively?

498
00:22:55,580 --> 00:22:57,900
Well, the first step is to identify the people

499
00:22:57,900 --> 00:23:00,020
in your network who could potentially help you

500
00:23:00,020 --> 00:23:01,060
with your job search.

501
00:23:01,060 --> 00:23:05,420
This could be former colleagues, classmates, friends, family

502
00:23:05,420 --> 00:23:08,500
members, even people you've met at industry events.

503
00:23:08,500 --> 00:23:10,340
So it's about leveraging your existing connections.

504
00:23:10,340 --> 00:23:11,260
Exactly.

505
00:23:11,260 --> 00:23:14,820
And then don't be afraid to reach out to those people

506
00:23:14,820 --> 00:23:16,580
and let them know that you're looking for a job.

507
00:23:16,580 --> 00:23:19,460
You might be surprised at how willing people are to help

508
00:23:19,460 --> 00:23:20,380
if you just ask.

509
00:23:20,380 --> 00:23:22,020
OK, so reach out to your network.

510
00:23:22,020 --> 00:23:22,620
What else?

511
00:23:22,620 --> 00:23:24,620
Well, another great way to network

512
00:23:24,620 --> 00:23:29,260
is to attend industry events, conferences, meetups,

513
00:23:29,260 --> 00:23:30,700
workshops.

514
00:23:30,700 --> 00:23:32,340
These events are a great opportunity

515
00:23:32,340 --> 00:23:35,980
to meet new people, learn about new trends, and potentially

516
00:23:35,980 --> 00:23:38,700
make connections that could lead to job opportunities.

517
00:23:38,700 --> 00:23:40,100
So it's about putting yourself out there.

518
00:23:40,100 --> 00:23:40,700
It is.

519
00:23:40,700 --> 00:23:43,380
And remember, networking is a two-way street.

520
00:23:43,380 --> 00:23:45,420
It's not just about what people can do for you.

521
00:23:45,420 --> 00:23:47,500
It's also about what you can do for them.

522
00:23:47,500 --> 00:23:49,860
So it's about building genuine relationships?

523
00:23:49,860 --> 00:23:50,860
Exactly.

524
00:23:50,860 --> 00:23:54,980
And those relationships can be invaluable throughout your career.

525
00:23:54,980 --> 00:23:56,020
I like that.

526
00:23:56,020 --> 00:23:57,740
So we've covered a lot of ground today.

527
00:23:57,740 --> 00:24:01,340
ATS, social media, personal branding, networking.

528
00:24:01,340 --> 00:24:04,060
It sounds like the job search has really evolved in recent years.

529
00:24:04,060 --> 00:24:05,220
It definitely has.

530
00:24:05,220 --> 00:24:09,300
But the good news is there are plenty of resources available

531
00:24:09,300 --> 00:24:11,620
to help job seekers navigate these changes.

532
00:24:11,620 --> 00:24:12,660
Right, like this podcast.

533
00:24:12,660 --> 00:24:13,340
Exactly.

534
00:24:13,340 --> 00:24:15,780
And with a little bit of knowledge and effort,

535
00:24:15,780 --> 00:24:18,460
anyone can create a standout resume,

536
00:24:18,460 --> 00:24:22,540
build a strong online brand, and land their dream job.

537
00:24:22,540 --> 00:24:23,660
I love that.

538
00:24:23,660 --> 00:24:26,540
So to all of you out there who are on the job hunt,

539
00:24:26,540 --> 00:24:27,660
don't give up.

540
00:24:27,660 --> 00:24:28,620
Keep learning.

541
00:24:28,620 --> 00:24:29,460
Keep growing.

542
00:24:29,460 --> 00:24:30,740
And keep believing in yourself.

543
00:24:30,740 --> 00:24:32,740
Because you've got this.

544
00:24:32,740 --> 00:24:34,500
So much good stuff to think about.

545
00:24:34,500 --> 00:24:35,060
Definitely.

546
00:24:35,060 --> 00:24:35,460
And you know what?

547
00:24:35,460 --> 00:24:35,780
It's funny.

548
00:24:35,780 --> 00:24:37,860
We've talked about all these changes in the job search.

549
00:24:37,860 --> 00:24:40,380
But I think there are also some things that will always be important.

550
00:24:40,380 --> 00:24:40,980
Oh, absolutely.

551
00:24:40,980 --> 00:24:43,220
Like no matter how much technology advances,

552
00:24:43,220 --> 00:24:47,300
there are certain fundamental skills that will always be in demand.

553
00:24:47,300 --> 00:24:49,140
Like what?

554
00:24:49,140 --> 00:24:51,820
Well, I'm thinking about things like communication skills,

555
00:24:51,820 --> 00:24:54,820
problem-solving abilities, critical thinking.

556
00:24:54,820 --> 00:24:56,980
Those are definitely timeless skills.

557
00:24:56,980 --> 00:24:59,820
And they're becoming even more valuable in today's world,

558
00:24:59,820 --> 00:25:02,580
where everything is changing so rapidly.

559
00:25:02,580 --> 00:25:05,540
Right, because employers need people who can adapt,

560
00:25:05,540 --> 00:25:08,540
who can think on their feet, who can communicate effectively,

561
00:25:08,540 --> 00:25:11,140
regardless of what tools or technologies they're using.

562
00:25:11,140 --> 00:25:11,940
Exactly.

563
00:25:11,940 --> 00:25:15,980
And those are skills that you can develop through a variety of experiences,

564
00:25:15,980 --> 00:25:17,660
not just in the workplace.

565
00:25:17,660 --> 00:25:18,420
Like what?

566
00:25:18,420 --> 00:25:22,580
Well, volunteering is a great way to build those skills,

567
00:25:22,580 --> 00:25:26,460
as is taking on leadership roles in community organizations,

568
00:25:26,460 --> 00:25:30,540
or even just participating in hobbies or activities that challenge you

569
00:25:30,540 --> 00:25:32,100
to think outside the box.

570
00:25:32,100 --> 00:25:33,820
So it's about being a well-rounded individual.

571
00:25:33,820 --> 00:25:34,500
Exactly.

572
00:25:34,500 --> 00:25:37,700
And that's something that employers will always appreciate.

573
00:25:37,700 --> 00:25:39,620
And speaking of things that employers appreciate,

574
00:25:39,620 --> 00:25:41,180
let's talk about cover letters for a minute.

575
00:25:41,180 --> 00:25:42,620
Oh, cover letters.

576
00:25:42,620 --> 00:25:45,060
The often dreaded companion to the resume.

577
00:25:45,060 --> 00:25:46,620
They know, right?

578
00:25:46,620 --> 00:25:49,140
A lot of people seem to think that cover letters are a waste of time.

579
00:25:49,140 --> 00:25:50,500
But I completely disagree.

580
00:25:50,500 --> 00:25:54,460
A well-written cover letter can be incredibly powerful.

581
00:25:54,460 --> 00:25:55,180
In what way?

582
00:25:55,180 --> 00:25:57,580
Well, for one thing, it gives you an opportunity

583
00:25:57,580 --> 00:26:01,180
to tell your story in a way that your resume simply can't.

584
00:26:01,180 --> 00:26:04,020
Your resume is all about facts and figures.

585
00:26:04,020 --> 00:26:07,940
But your cover letter allows you to showcase your personality,

586
00:26:07,940 --> 00:26:11,620
your passion, your unique qualifications

587
00:26:11,620 --> 00:26:14,100
in a more narrative and engaging way.

588
00:26:14,100 --> 00:26:15,580
So it's like the human touch.

589
00:26:15,580 --> 00:26:16,780
Exactly.

590
00:26:16,780 --> 00:26:20,180
And it can make a big difference in making you stand out from the competition.

591
00:26:20,180 --> 00:26:22,460
Especially if you're applying for a job,

592
00:26:22,460 --> 00:26:24,260
where there are a lot of other qualified candidates.

593
00:26:24,260 --> 00:26:27,820
Right. Because even if everyone has similar skills and experience,

594
00:26:27,820 --> 00:26:31,940
your cover letter is your chance to show why you're the best fit for the role,

595
00:26:31,940 --> 00:26:33,380
why you're the one they should hire.

596
00:26:33,380 --> 00:26:36,540
So how do you write a cover letter that really grabs attention?

597
00:26:36,540 --> 00:26:40,900
Well, the first rule of thumb is to make it specific to the job you're applying for.

598
00:26:40,900 --> 00:26:44,500
Don't just use a generic template and swap out the company name.

599
00:26:44,500 --> 00:26:47,660
Take the time to research the company, the role,

600
00:26:47,660 --> 00:26:51,900
and tailor your cover letter to address their specific needs and challenges.

601
00:26:51,900 --> 00:26:53,460
That's all about personalization.

602
00:26:53,460 --> 00:26:56,540
Absolutely. You want to show the employer that you've done your homework

603
00:26:56,540 --> 00:26:58,860
and that you're genuinely interested in the position.

604
00:26:58,860 --> 00:27:00,540
And what about the content?

605
00:27:00,540 --> 00:27:03,900
Well, your cover letter should essentially answer three questions.

606
00:27:03,900 --> 00:27:06,860
Why this company? Why this role?

607
00:27:06,860 --> 00:27:07,940
And why you...

608
00:27:07,940 --> 00:27:09,300
It's like a mini sales pitch.

609
00:27:09,300 --> 00:27:10,860
In a way, yes.

610
00:27:10,860 --> 00:27:13,420
You're selling yourself to the employer

611
00:27:13,420 --> 00:27:16,300
and convincing them that you're the best candidate for the job.

612
00:27:16,300 --> 00:27:18,980
Okay. I'm starting to see the value of a good cover letter.

613
00:27:18,980 --> 00:27:19,820
Good.

614
00:27:19,820 --> 00:27:23,500
Because it really can make a big difference in your job search.

615
00:27:23,500 --> 00:27:26,140
So any other tips for writing a killer cover letter?

616
00:27:26,140 --> 00:27:30,940
Well, one thing I always recommend is to start with a strong opening,

617
00:27:30,940 --> 00:27:34,900
something that will grab the reader's attention and make them want to keep reading.

618
00:27:34,900 --> 00:27:36,020
Like what?

619
00:27:36,020 --> 00:27:39,380
Well, you could start with an anecdote, a personal story,

620
00:27:39,380 --> 00:27:40,780
or even a bold statement.

621
00:27:40,780 --> 00:27:42,900
Just make sure it's relevant to the job

622
00:27:42,900 --> 00:27:45,180
and that it sets the tone for the rest of your letter.

623
00:27:45,180 --> 00:27:46,340
So it's like a hook.

624
00:27:46,340 --> 00:27:49,060
Exactly. You want to hook the reader

625
00:27:49,060 --> 00:27:50,660
and make them want to learn more about you.

626
00:27:50,660 --> 00:27:51,820
And what about the closing?

627
00:27:51,820 --> 00:27:56,180
Well, the closing is your chance to reiterate your interest in the position

628
00:27:56,180 --> 00:27:59,700
and to thank the employer for their time and consideration.

629
00:27:59,700 --> 00:28:04,260
You can also use the closing to briefly mention any next steps,

630
00:28:04,260 --> 00:28:06,300
like when you're available for an interview.

631
00:28:06,300 --> 00:28:07,860
So it's like tying up all the loose ends.

632
00:28:07,860 --> 00:28:10,660
Exactly. You want to leave the employer

633
00:28:10,660 --> 00:28:13,420
with a positive and lasting impression.

634
00:28:13,420 --> 00:28:15,580
Well, I think that's a great place to wrap things up.

635
00:28:15,580 --> 00:28:16,100
I agree.

636
00:28:16,100 --> 00:28:18,060
We've covered a lot of ground today.

637
00:28:18,060 --> 00:28:20,500
For the basics of resume writing,

638
00:28:20,500 --> 00:28:23,060
to the importance of personal branding,

639
00:28:23,060 --> 00:28:25,980
and the power of a well-crafted cover letter.

640
00:28:25,980 --> 00:28:27,380
It's been a great discussion.

641
00:28:27,380 --> 00:28:30,500
I hope our listeners feel empowered to go out there

642
00:28:30,500 --> 00:28:32,740
and create job application materials

643
00:28:32,740 --> 00:28:35,140
that truly showcase their skills and experience.

644
00:28:35,140 --> 00:28:36,100
I do too.

645
00:28:36,100 --> 00:28:38,260
So to all of you job seekers out there,

646
00:28:38,260 --> 00:28:39,420
good luck with your search.

647
00:28:39,420 --> 00:28:41,620
And remember, you've got this.

648
00:28:41,620 --> 00:28:43,300
Thanks for joining us on this deep dive.

649
00:28:43,300 --> 00:28:46,740
Until next time, keep learning, keep growing,

650
00:28:46,740 --> 00:28:49,300
and keep chasing those dreams.