Great Pajama Jobs

CHAPTER 6Crafting Your Résumé and Cover Letter

No matter what stage of your working life you're in, creating a résumé can be daunting. How do you accurately and creatively share your skills and experience in a one-dimensional presentation? I'm a big fan of LinkedIn profiles where the language isn't stiff, and you can post videos and share presentations to build a full picture of who you are.

But in the job search process, a résumé has not gone out of style and is still your calling card for the official record.

I recently had to write my own résumé for a job opportunity that sounded intriguing, after not having done so in more than 20 years! Trust me, it was tricky. I asked my niece, 28, who had just landed a great job after graduate school, to send me her most recent one to get the latest in formatting. I had my sister edit it for me. It was not a pleasant experience.

I kept reminding myself of all the advice I share for jobseekers who ask me for help and, step-by-step, I did it. So here goes.

As I mentioned above, remote job seekers must shine a light on any telecommuting, freelance gigs, and work-from-home jobs you've performed in the past, or still do. This demonstrates to potential employers that you know the drill. You have the self-discipline, time-management savvy, and tech know-how to perform from the get-go.

Your résumé is your highlight sizzle reel. It's your advertisement, not your obituary.

Ten Ways Your Résumé Can Capture a Hiring Manager's Consideration

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