The traditional resume is still very much in use: an 8 1/2 x 11 form succinctly presenting what you’ve accomplished in your career and the skills you’ve mastered. However, when your resume is one among hundreds or even thousands getting rapidly scanned for a particular job, you may want to substitute or supplement it with a more non-traditional format.A well-crafted, non-traditional resume can truly show your abilities and experience in action. The following are three general kinds of non-traditional resumes to consider:
Personal Website:
In addition to displaying information found in a traditional resume, your website can also showcase your proficiency in different areas, including programming, web design, and copywriting; your site may be visually compelling and offer sophisticated features that attract and engage visitors while sharing information about yourself and your ideas. The website can also serve as a portfolio highlighting outstanding examples of your work, along with any testimonials you’ve received from previous clients or employers. With careful planning, your personal website can provide a clear, comprehensive picture of who you are to your prospective employers.
Social Media Platforms:
Particularly for jobs involving marketing or advertising, creative use of social media platforms might give you an edge over your competitors. One famous example is marketing executive Mark Johnson’s Pinterest resume, highlighting his projects, activities, and interests through a collection of boards. Some companies have encouraged the use of ‘twesumes’ – creatively condensing your resume to 140 characters and tweeting it to employers. Even if you don’t plan to use social media platforms as part of your resume, keep in mind that companies will often check out your online presence; if you’re influential on Twitter or other sites, and have amassed followers who are interested in your ideas, this could make you look more attractive for certain jobs.
Slideshare
You can take prospective employers and other interested parties on a compelling journey through a narrative you tell in slides. Use infographics and other visuals to convey your achievements and ideas, and show off your excellent communication skills as you tell the story of yourself, what you have to offer, and the kinds of problems and projects you seek to tackle.
These resume tips for non-traditional formats may help you better stand out and impress prospective employers with your achievements and creativity. Many of them can also be relatively easy to update on the fly, whenever there’s a new development in your career. For further advice on presenting your best self to employees, in both traditional and non-traditional ways, don’t hesitate to contact us.
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