How to Create, Utilize Electronic Resumes

How to Create, Utilize Electronic Resumes
June 17, 2009
Becky Schneider, AgCareers.com

As technology continues to develop, the amount of face-to-face contact between people is decreasing. More people are using the internet for social networking and job searching. As a result, it is important to learn how to create a quality electronic resume and use it effectively.

An online resume travels farther and quicker than the traditional paper version. If a job seeker posts their resume on a job searching Web site like AgCareers.com, they have the ability to reach thousands of employers. While this is advantageous, AgCareers.com Education Coordinator Ashley Collins said it also means job seekers need to be cautious about how they utilize their online resumes.

“Online resumes allow the job seeker to network just by getting their resume in front of many different employers,” Collins said. “Having that said, job seekers should also realize that if not used properly, their online resume can create a negative impression instead of a positive one.”

Below are five tips on ways to effectively utilize an electronic resume.

1. Proofread, proofread, proofread. When preparing to email a resume be conscious of common, simple mistakes. Cautiously proofread the document before sending. Similar to print resumes, Collins said the number one mistake with electronic resumes is spelling errors and an overall lack of editing.

2. Email to specific contacts in your network. Collins cautions against using mass emailing to distribute your online resume. She said mass distribution lists are not appropriate when emailing your resume as it is a quick way to devalue the network you have worked so hard to build.