Generic Résumés

Generic résumés can be a very powerful tool but don't plan on your generic résumé getting the same results as a specifically targeted masterpiece. There is no way to obtain the same result with a generic résumé. However, by using the techniques you have just learned, you will get the maximum response from your generic résumé.

You have already completed the bulk of the work that goes into creating any résumé so creating a generic résumé will be a short and easy task.

Conveying Your Message to the World

Follow the previous sections and apply the notes about generic résumés from the end of each section.

When you have finished, ask yourself:

"Do my accomplishments paint a picture of who I am and what I have to offer?"

"Do they highlight my unique skill(s) that set me apart from others in my field?"

Even if they don't set you apart from your competition, do they show your ability to adapt, accomplish and be the very best at what you do?

Can you demonstrate your true value to a potential employer?

Check your editing, at least, four times and read it out loud. Have some one else read it for clarity but don't take suggestions from them. You are simply checking readability, again.

This résumé will be used when you want to send your résumé to the world and don't really have a specific employer in mind. After you combine this with the cover letter you are about to write, it will be an outstanding asset in your job-seeking quest.

The results you get will be considerably more favorable than what you are used to and it will be significantly better than any of your competition that may be sending out generic résumés to compete with yours.

The more you know about your career field and future position, the more likely you are to create a generic résumé that captures skills the hiring manager is looking for. Your ability to do this will dramatically impact the response to your generic résumé.

Chapter 7 Review

• Generic Résumés are only as good as your ability to predict what the hiring manager wants.


• The résumé must convey the message you want to give to the generic audience.