Even if you are the “perfect” candidate for a position, someone less skilled might get the job of your dreams because their Curriculum Vitas, Bio, or Resumé (career documents) was written more skillfully. It happens all the time. Many people think that since they know their jobs well and have adequate (or even excellent) communication skills, they can prepare their own career documents.

But when writing about themselves, people tend to undersell the “product.” In addition, a full 98% of career documents created by unskilled professionals lack several of the most important ingredients. As a result, many opportunities are missed.

Some job seekers regard the career document as “just a piece of paper.” But in today’s highly competitive job market, where the typical nationally advertised position opening will receive literally hundred of responses, it takes an effective career documents to get interviews.

Think of it this way – a $1 bill and a $1,000 bill are both “just paper,” too. But like career documents, their value is determined by what is printed on that piece of paper.

Your career document is one of the most important documents you will ever create. This “make-or-break” marketing tool is what stands between whether an employer will call you for an interview or pass you by.

Common Career Document Pitfalls
Most people who write their own career documents are unsure of how to best present their strengths, downplay their weaknesses, and appeal to employer needs. Common mistakes include the omission of important information and/or strategic sections, the inclusion of irrelevant (and/or ill-advised) details, a shortage of keywords, a failure to emphasize transferable skills, a lack of a specific career focus, and an uninviting page design. And, perhaps most critically, the majority of applicants write “task-oriented” career documents vs. “achievement-based” career documents.

An Investment in Your Future
A professionally prepared career document is an investment in your future earning power and career happiness. Professional résumé writers have the experience and skills necessary to present applicants from diverse industries, career fields, and experience levels at their very best. They know how to set you apart from the competition, ensure that your career documents get read, and prompt the reader to take action by calling you for an interview.

Once you've developed that perfect curriculum vitae, bio or resume, consult one of our excellent resources to find your dream job. Check-out our career resources.