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When I started writing professional resumes nearly 15 years ago, the job search landscape was vastly different than it is today. Although the Internet was around, and job boards were just beginning to crop up, we still applied for jobs using paper and fax machines. Those days are long gone, and it’s been a constant battle to keep up with changes along the way.

Since then , we’ve seen the advent of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) where computers filter through key words before human eyes ever see them. Plus with the number of free resume samples floating all over the Internet, it’s become quite easy for job seekers with writer’s block to lift phrases and resume styles from others. It’s how crutch words and phrases quickly become the disdain of recruiters. My least favorite (and way overused word on a resume) is “successfully.” Career Builder recently released a survey of words that hiring managers have ranked as best and worst. While “successful” did not make their list, terms such as “team player,” “results-driven,” and “track record” were included as “least favorite.” As to words they liked, you’ll find them in the survey, but keep in mind, whatever recruiters favor today, may be out of favor tomorrow.

Therefore, use a thesaurus! Not all words have to parrot the vacancy announcement exactly. Instead, show off your broad knowledge of the English language. But if that’s not your forte, then hire an expert. We’re here to help.

Today is a big day for 1st Rate Resumes. It was 13 years ago today that I walked into the San Diego County Building and registered the name in the State of California. It was my resolution to start a new job, so I created one. Mind you, I knew very little about operating a business.

It’s been a challenging occupation, but ever changing and always interesting. I spend a lot of time researching job titles, learning grammar and proofreading skills, cursing at Microsoft, and handling accounting duties. But we’re still here, and after 13 years and numerous cross-country moves, we’re not only surviving, but thriving.

As for the changes? I’ve seen the death of the one page resume, the evolution of online job applications (ASCII text resumes) and a huge surge in job fairs. I’ve been a part of JobQuest TV which picked up 12 awards — 2 of them Emmys. I’ve created the radio program “Career Matters Radio” which helps job seekers and the unhappily employed. I’m super excited about 2014.

The best part of this business is the people we get to help. When a client’s worst dilemma is having to turn down two job offers to accept a third, or when I hear of salary increases of $10-$12K or even double their current compensation, then I know I’ve done my job, and I don’t feel the least bit guilty of my fees. My clients know they are an excellent value in the long run.

And my dirty little secret to success comes from the 80+ jobs I’ve held. I know firsthand what to do, what not to do, etc. However, this current position of mine seems to be my calling. I know this because it’s the only one where I have served on Boards for Career Related Associations, judged annual awards, and have earned 5 certifications.  I guess you could say I’m building my own resume these days by racking up a few achievements. I’m hopeful you’re doing the same. Happy New Year!

If you are about to graduate college, you’ve come to the right place. First Rate Resumes has helped hundreds of new college graduates launch their career.  It’s a tough economy, however, employers are still hiring. There’s just more competition. In order to compete effectively, you’ll need a 1st Rate Resume to put you ahead of the pack.  Many of our clients have been on multiple job interviews for jobs within their field. Professionally written resumes pay for themselves many times over, by opening  doors, and shortening the job search.

Send us your resume, or give us a call at 623-556-0330. We’d be happy to look it over, and give you a no-obligation quote.

–PS: A professionally written resume makes an excellent graduation gift.

After 13 years of writing resumes, and hearing way too many workplace horror stories, it’s easy to figure out why people quit their jobs. While money and the ability to make a difference are definitely factors; the majority of job seekers have revealed to me they are not quitting their jobs. They’re quitting their managers.

One client told me when he started his job right out of college 28 years ago, he loved his company and his position so much, he never planned on leaving.  He worked for numerous managers, but it was his last 3 years with the organization that made his job a living hell. He had a bully boss, who would yell and scream over visible electric cords, florescent lighting, and not parking his car uniformly with every one else – front end toward the building. And no, he didn’t work for a car dealership; he worked in a television station. Antics like these might be humiliating, but they are not illegal.

Bad managers can make a job go from awesome to awful. And they cost companies a lot in poor morale, high turnover, company lawsuits, and the worst of all — violence in the workplace. The saddest part of this, is that most of their antics are not illegal. Rudeness is not illegal, even if it does create a hostile work environment.

Before signing on to your next job, checkout Glassdoor.com to find out if their are any issues you may encounter. You’ll save yourself a lot of grief in the long run.