Career Journal: The 'Online' Resume

A few years ago, I wrote in this column about the art of resume writing; what works and what doesn't. At the time, I attempted to stifle the creative urge in many marketing executives to make their resumes some sort of career magnum opus. I was not a big fan of introducing color, design, or photography into the document. I used the example of the character actress Reese Witherspoon played in the movie Legally Blonde, who as an aspiring attorney, sent out pink, perfumed-scented resumes to prospective employers. The simple point I was trying to make was there was much more to presenting yourself and attracting prospective employers than trying to perfect the resume and use it as your singular lifeblood to new employment. In 2008, I wrote:

Writing your resume is only a small fraction of the job search process. Resumes do not get you the job; you do. The majority of job seekers land their next position through networking. Your time would be better served “working your network” than trying to produce the ultimate resume. That said, once your networking efforts produce an interview, be prepared with a proper resume and, more importantly, supporting collateral materials to showcase your talent. A portfolio of marketing materials you have produced over time is absolutely essential.

The Emergence of Social Media