There seems to be a trend, especially with the younger crowd, to distract from their obvious weakness in experience or results with photos, illustrations, cartoons, different colors and in some cases, a bitmoji. (A bitmoji is an avatar of yourself in the form of a sticker that can be modified to fit any situation)
This kind of resume may be fine in certain limited situations, but it comes up short for a professional presentation. Where would it be OK? From my experience, the flamboyant resume with gadgets and creative expressions of individualism may be useful for smaller companies who are looking for an inexpensive but imaginative person who can add some marketing ideas and energy. Another situation might be an entry position in an advertising agency, or a quirky position in graphic arts. These jobs are limited in content and pay.
Put yourself in the place of a hiring manager in a mid-sized or large corporation looking for an accountant, human resource, engineering, manufacturing, sales, administrative or customer service jobs. You get 100 resumes from applicants who have a year or two experiences in a similar job, has measurable results in their field of expertise and are interested in furthering their career with your company. One of the resumes, however, looks like an Instagram, with an oval photo, icons of hobbies, an avatar running in place, and color designs throughout the resume. The cover letter starts out with “Hi, I’m what you’re looking for!”
Four things strike me at the outset with this type of resume:
- This is someone who needs attention, maybe all of the time. I’m not sure I want to supervise someone who is so needy.
- The resume is distracting from the substance for which I am looking. What are they trying to say?
- The approach is lacking. If this person is 22 or older, I would wonder about their maturity level. A portfolio of their creative work would be much more helpful.
- If this person is projecting a form of individualism or anti-establishment, what affect will this have on the strong team spirit within the current work group?
On the other hand, does my organization need a spot of avant-garde thinking or a shot of the unconventional approach to work? And what is the risk if I hire this kind of character into the mix? Am I willing to accept the consequences of introducing someone who may or may not add value or fit the culture?
My point? The type of job and industry for which you are applying should determine the approach in designing your resume, strategy and interview method. Every individual has a style and philosophy that determines their “fit” and dictates their performance. It should be compatible with the organization with which you work. If not, find one that does, or your continuity of employment will be short.
For a FREE critique of your resume, send it to: wkaufmann44@gmail.com