Word Choice Matters What you say and how you say it can impact your résumé.

Everyone knows you only have a few seconds to make a first impression when meeting somebody in person. Job seekers can be confused by that rule as it applies to résumés, often spending a lot of effort fine-tuning them, yet missing the full benefit of all the changes.

Outside of interviews based on a recommendation by a current employee, companies use résumés as the basis for the first cut when determining who should be invited into the screening and interview process. An important reason for editing a résumé is to make sure it creates interest and gives the right impression. Someone is going to take 30 seconds to review a résumé and decide if that applicant is in or out. You want your résumé to be in the "in" pile.

Incorporate the same phrases or keywords advertised within the job posting into your résumé. Keywords are the terms used to search for the right applicants. Without the right keywords, your résumé may not be found or read.

Be sure your résumé leaves the impression that you are just right — not an exaggerated superhero, and not too weak or passive. You want to inspire confidence that you are the right person for the job. Use the job posting to determine how to edit your résumé and craft the best impression of your skills and experience.

You don't have to be a perfect fit to make it to the "in" pile. Rarely does a company hire someone who has every single item on its wish list. Companies hire the person who is the best match (typically an 80 percent match), not the perfect match.

When applying to positions that may be beyond your skills and experience, avoid using a passive tone. Use strong, action-oriented words. Who sounds more impressive, the candidate who states he "helped with project X," or the candidate who says he was a "key contributor to project X"? Examine your résumé for opportunities to replace weak words with something stronger. Create an impression that you are ready for the next step in your career and inspire confidence that you can do the job.

Be sure your résumé leaves the impression that you are just right — not an exaggerated superhero, and not too weak or passive. You want to inspire confidence that you are the right person for the job. Use the job posting to determine how to edit your résumé and craft the best impression of your skills and experience.

Excerpted from Word Choice Matters

Portfolio Preparation

Whether you are a designer, illustrator, photographer, or artist it is important for you to have an effective way to show your work and talent to potential employers or clients. The portfolio is a crucial part of the hiring process. It may not only get you an interview, but it also may clinch a job offer.

As any marketing professional will tell you, packaging counts. And that's especially true when it comes to your portfolio. Although creating a strong portfolio may seem like a daunting process, it doesn't have to be.

Selecting Samples
The first step is deciding which pieces to include - the goal is to select items that best represent your core strengths and industry experience while showcasing your creativity, technical ability and range.

Organizing Items
If properly organized, your portfolio will demonstrate to clients how your skills will meet their needs and how they can profit from hiring you.

Customizing Content
Ultimately, your portfolio should resemble a well-written resume - it should be relevant and easily customized. Always match your qualifications with the unique needs of the potential employer. Researching the company's website, learning about its history and the various products and services it provides, and any material it produces (e.g., brochures, annual reports, design samples), will help you identify which of your talents will best serve the company.

Portfolio Format
Printed Portfolios

Traditionally the contents of a portfolio have been presented using color copies, 35mm slides, or examples of publications (tear sheets).

The most common type of portfolio is the simulated leather, multi-ring portfolio with pages that allow inclusion of loose samples. This has the advantage of keeping your work in sequence and well protected. Avoid large, "student" size books which are too big to fit on an art director's desk. Most artists choose 8 ½ x 11, 11 x 14, or 18 x 24".

Online Portfolios
All artists and designers are using technology to showcase their work. (You can let employers know you would be happy to provide high quality printed work or slides upon request – if applicable to your field). Your online portfolio holds the advantage of showcasing your services 24/7, enabling potential clients to find you with just a few clicks. Make sure it clearly conveys who you are and the services you offer, and provides complete contact information.

Find the Right Online Solution -- You can create a unique portfolio and you don’t have to be a web designer. Find technology that you feel comfortable with (for example, blogs are a great (free) option, just use the ability to upload photos and text to suit your needs (you are not going to use blog features). Remember, it is about showing off your WORK not the portfolio.

For more detailed information about portfolios visit http://www.rit.edu/emcs/oce/portfolio-preparation

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