Resume & Cover Letters

January 20, 2025

Perfecting Your Resume for Remote Work Success

We often share tips for resumes and other application materials that encompass: customizing your materials for each application you submit, mentioning your past work history, etc. While these are all great tips, we wanted to share some new ones that will help you create eye-catching resumes.

Seek Online Sources of Inspiration

Start by exploring online resources that can help shape your resume for remote work. Numerous websites offer professional resume examples tailored to various industries, providing a great starting point. Platforms like LinkedIn are invaluable; you can analyze profiles of successful professionals in your field to see how they present their skills and experiences. Pay particular attention to how these profiles highlight skills crucial for remote work, such as self-motivation, time management, and proficiency with technology. These elements can guide you in structuring your own resume.

Additionally, look for resume templates specifically designed for remote jobs. These templates often emphasize key areas that remote employers value, helping you focus on the most relevant information. You might also find articles and forums where people discuss their experiences and share advice on crafting resumes that stand out to remote employers. This collective knowledge can offer fresh perspectives and tips you might not have considered.

Another valuable source of inspiration can be online courses or webinars on resume building and job searching. Many of these are tailored for the digital job market and can provide up-to-date insights and strategies. Incorporating advice from these experts can ensure your resume is current and compelling. The key is to use these resources to create a resume that highlights your suitability for remote work. In fact, we offer a great course that can help you called Cultivate!

Add Visual Elements

Recruiters often sift through a large number of applications, so your resume needs to grab their attention quickly. Adding visual elements like charts and graphs can effectively showcase your skills and accomplishments. For example, a skills chart can illustrate your proficiency in various areas, providing a quick visual snapshot of your capabilities. Given that nearly a quarter of hiring managers spend under 30 seconds skimming a candidate’s resume (24% of them, in fact), having these visual cues can make a significant difference. By creatively incorporating visual aids, you can highlight your strengths in a way that stands out and leaves a lasting impression.

Stay True to Yourself

Your resume should go beyond listing professional skills and job titles; it should also offer a glimpse into who you are as a person. Showcasing hobbies, volunteer activities, or personal projects can add depth and dimension, giving hiring managers a fuller picture of your capabilities and character. For instance, if you’re involved in community service, it might highlight your teamwork and leadership skills. Personal projects, like a blog or a coding portfolio, can illustrate your passion and self-motivation, key traits for remote work.

Incorporating elements that reflect your personality doesn’t mean sacrificing professionalism. Carefully select activities and interests that resonate with the role you’re applying for and that demonstrate qualities beneficial for remote work. For example, if you’ve taken part in an online course or workshop related to your field, mentioning this can show your commitment to continuous learning.

If you have a personal website, blog, or portfolio, consider including a link in your resume. A professional website can offer a deeper dive into your work and personality, providing a more comprehensive view of your skills and experiences. You might even add a video introduction, allowing hiring managers to see and hear from you directly, creating a more personal connection even before the interview stage.

Offer Concrete Data

When detailing your achievements, use specific numbers and evidence to back up your claims. For example, if you improved a process at your previous job, describe the percentage increase in efficiency and provide supporting documents like project reports or performance reviews. If you managed a team, mention the team size and any measurable outcomes, such as a rise in productivity or reduced turnover rates. Highlighting your technical expertise and job-specific skills is crucial, as 88% of full-time hiring managers prioritize these attributes during the hiring process. If you contributed to a significant project, describe your role and its impact, supported by concrete data. For instance, “Spearheaded a marketing campaign that increased website traffic by 40% over six months.”

Using quantifiable metrics not only showcases your contributions but also provides a clearer picture of your capabilities to potential employers. For example, if you are a marketer, you can provide links to posts that went viral so companies can have a better understanding of the work you produce.

Rehearse With Friends

One often overlooked aspect of resume preparation is the importance of feedback and rehearsal. After crafting your resume, share it with friends and family for their honest opinions. They can spot inconsistencies, unclear statements, or areas that need more detail. Additionally, they can provide insights into how well your resume reflects your suitability for remote work.

Beyond written feedback, consider conducting mock interviews with them. This practice can be invaluable, allowing you to articulate your experiences and skills effectively. Encourage them to ask questions that a potential employer might pose, particularly those related to remote work dynamics, such as how you manage your time, handle communication, and stay motivated. This not only boosts your confidence but also helps you refine your answers, making you more prepared for the actual interview.

Another benefit of rehearsing with friends is the opportunity to practice discussing your concrete achievements and the data supporting them. Ensure that you can fluently explain how your previous roles and accomplishments align with the demands of remote work. For instance, if your resume mentions a project that significantly improved team efficiency, be ready to discuss your specific contributions and the impact in detail.

We also offer resume building and interview training with our HR experts. Start with your family for some feedback, then contact our experts!

Written by Staff Writer

November 18, 2024

Tips for Showcasing WFH Experience on Your Resume

No matter where you are in your job seeking journey, whether you have tons of experience with remote work or little to none, there are certain ways you can call out your experience in a resume that will capture an employer’s attention. This will make your application materials more organized while showcasing the best skills you have for the job:

Highlight Relevant WFH Skills

When listing work from home experience on your resume, emphasize the skills that have helped you excel in a remote setting. Focus on self-motivation, time management, digital communication, and proficiency with remote collaboration tools. Provide concrete examples, such as managing a project with a dispersed team or using specific software to coordinate tasks. Mention any experience with tools like Zoom, Slack, or Trello, which are crucial for communication within remote work.

Specify Remote Work Experience Clearly

Make it easy for employers to identify your work from home roles by clearly marking them as “Remote” or “Work from Home” in the job title or location line. For instance, instead of listing a position as “Customer Service Representative,” label it as “Customer Service Representative (Remote).” This distinction immediately signals to hiring managers that you have relevant remote experience. Additionally, if you have held multiple remote roles, consider creating a dedicated section on your resume for “Remote Work Experience.” This allows potential employers to quickly see your proficiency and extensive background in remote working environments. In fact, if you have enough experience under your belt, you can remove all in-person positions to leave room to showcase your remote positions only. Otherwise, be sure to address how in-person jobs can translate to remote ones.

Quantify Your Achievements

Numbers and data can vividly illustrate your contributions while working from home. Putting numbers on your achievements offers concrete proof of your impact and productivity. For instance, instead of simply stating you “enhanced customer satisfaction,” specify that you “improved customer satisfaction scores by 20% through efficient resolution of remote service inquiries.” Highlighting these metrics provides tangible evidence of your success and showcases the effectiveness of your remote work. Don’t just make up these numbers though, use hard data from your work or take a poll of past bosses/coworkers for some stats.

Demonstrate Remote Collaboration

Describe specific projects or initiatives where you successfully worked with a distributed team. For example, you might mention organizing regular virtual meetings to ensure effective communication or implementing a digital system for tracking team progress. Highlight any leadership roles you took on, such as coordinating a project, leading virtual brainstorming sessions, or resolving conflicts among remote team members. These examples underscore not only your technical skills but also your capability to maintain team cohesion and productivity in a virtual setting.

Tailor Your Resume for Each Application

Tailoring your resume for each job application is critical, particularly when highlighting your work from home experience. Start by thoroughly analyzing the job description to understand the specific skills and experiences the employer is seeking. Align your resume to reflect how your remote work background meets these requirements. It’s also beneficial to research the company’s culture and values. This can provide insights into what the employer prioritizes, allowing you to adjust your resume to emphasize relevant aspects of your work from home experience. For example, if the company values innovation, highlight any remote projects where you introduced new tools or processes to improve efficiency.

This personalized approach can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing the job. Still in need of some help on crafting your application materials? Our HR experts are available to sit down with you and review everything!

Written by

July 20, 2024

What Exactly Should Go on Your Resume?

Creating a resume can sometimes feel like an art form, balancing between showcasing your best qualities and remaining succinct. With so much advice out there, it can be tough to decipher what exactly employers are looking for. The key is not just in listing your experiences and skills, but in presenting them in a way that aligns with your career goals and the job you’re applying for. Whether you’re entering the workforce, shifting careers, or aiming for a promotion, your resume is a crucial tool.

Crafting a Powerful Professional Summary

In the realm of resumes, your professional summary acts as a pivotal introduction, concisely encapsulating your career’s essence and the unique benefits you bring to the table. Tailor this section to mirror the qualities and experiences most relevant to the job you’re targeting, distilling your professional journey into a compelling narrative.

For instance, a bookkeeper might describe themselves as, “Dynamic bookkeeper with over eight years of experience in managing accounting solutions to both small businesses and large corporations. Specializes in Quickbooks software, with a proven track record of enhancing accounting efficiency by 30% through effective data input strategies. Recognized for expertise in profit and loss management and cross-functional team collaboration to keep entries up to date.” This personalized approach not only outlines your skills and achievements but also positions you as an ideal candidate by directly aligning your background with the prospective employer’s needs.

Remember, this should only be a few sentences. The shorter the better, but it does need to communicate who you are and what you bring to the table for a position. This goes at the top of your resume underneath your contact information; a professional summary is optional, but it can be a great way to add more information about yourself — and it gives you another opportunity to use keywords from the job listing in your application materials.

Detailing Your Work Experience with Precision

Begin by listing your positions in reverse chronological order, focusing on roles most relevant to the job you’re eyeing. Each entry should include your job title and employer. The meat of this section lies in bullet-pointed descriptions of your duties and accomplishments, where specificity and measurable results reign supreme. For instance, instead of stating “oversaw project completion,” detail it as, “Supervised a remote team to deliver 3 major projects on time, under budget, resulting in a 15% increase in client satisfaction.” Such precision not only conveys your responsibilities but also underscores your impact, illustrating how you’ve excelled in past roles. Aim to demonstrate how your contributions have positively affected your team or company, using concrete figures and outcomes whenever possible to paint a vivid picture of your professional skills.

Highlighting Your Education and Certifications

List your highest degree first, including the type of degree, your major, the institution from which you graduated, and the year of graduation. If applicable, add your GPA, especially if it’s notably high or if you’re a recent graduate. For those still pursuing a degree, mention your anticipated completion date. When it comes to certifications, provide the name of the certification and the organization that issued it. For instance, a marketing professional might note, “Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, Magna Cum Laude, University of XYZ, 2019” followed by “Google Analytics Certified, Google, 2020.” This format efficiently conveys your educational background and any additional qualifications that enhance your expertise in your field.

You also do not need to list all of your education experience or all of your certifications if they do not match the position for which you are applying. You can just list your highest college degree and top certifications.

Showcasing Relevant Skills and Technologies

Break down your expertise into distinct categories for clarity — highlight your skills and proficiencies, such as project management programs, productivity tools, or certified services you offer such as a CPA. For example, a graphic designer might list, “Advanced in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.” Additionally, pinpoint your soft skills, which are just as crucial for most roles. Phrases like, “Adept at conflict resolution” or “Highly effective in remote team environments” showcase interpersonal strengths that complement your technical abilities. Customize this portion based on the specific requirements outlined in the job listing, ensuring you mirror the language used by the employer to describe their ideal candidate’s skills.

Including Additional Information That Makes You Stand Out

This segment offers the perfect opportunity to pepper your resume with unique details that showcase your versatility and distinctiveness as a candidate. For example, if you are seeking a sales position, you should list stats you have achieved in past sales positions such as, “Provided over 100 remote demonstrations that led to a 80% conversion rate in sales.” Or, highlighting accolades such as “Recipient of the 2020 Innovator Award for groundbreaking marketing strategies” underscores recognition for your achievements. Volunteer activities, especially those aligned with your professional field, reflect your commitment to community and leadership qualities, e.g., “Volunteered as a financial advisor for non-profit organizations focusing on economic empowerment.” Including hobbies that demonstrate valuable soft skills or technical abilities relevant to the job can also be beneficial, like “Amateur digital artist skilled in using Adobe Illustrator to render artwork with AI” Each of these additions serves to provide a fuller picture of who you are beyond the workplace, potentially resonating with the values and needs of your prospective employer.

Tailoring Your Resume for Each Job Application

Adapting your resume to each job application is essential for capturing the attention of potential employers. Start by scrutinizing the job listing for keywords and phrases that highlight the desired skill sets and responsibilities. Incorporate these terms into your resume, particularly within the professional summary and work experience sections. For example, if the listing emphasizes “innovative problem-solving” and “effective communication,” these attributes should be clearly reflected in your descriptions. By doing so, you demonstrate not only your keen understanding of the job’s demands but also your capacity to meet them. This personalized touch can significantly increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process, as it suggests a genuine fit between your skills and the employer’s needs.

Written by HMMCustomer Care

July 16, 2024

Top Hard Skills for Remote Job Descriptions and Resumes

As the remote job market continues to expand, it is increasingly important for employers and job seekers alike to be aware of the hard skills necessary for success in this growing field. To ensure that a remote position is filled with an experienced and qualified individual, employers need to know which hard skills to ask for in a job description. On the other hand, job seekers should have an understanding of what hard skills they need to include on their resumes to demonstrate their capabilities.

Why Hard Skills are Important in Remote Positions

In remote positions, where the physical presence and direct supervision of employees may not be possible, hard skills become even more critical. Hard skills refer to the technical abilities and expertise required to perform specific tasks or roles effectively. These skills are tangible and measurable, providing employers with a clear understanding of an applicant’s capabilities. One of the primary reasons hard skills are important in remote positions is the level of independence and self-direction required in such roles. Remote employees often have to work autonomously and handle various responsibilities without constant guidance. Having the necessary hard skills ensures that they can tackle the job effectively and deliver results without constant supervision.

Additionally, remote work often involves collaboration and communication across different time zones and locations. Strong hard skills in areas such as project management, technical proficiency, and data analysis can help bridge any potential gaps in communication and ensure efficient and effective teamwork. Moreover, employers hiring for remote positions typically have a specific set of requirements that need to be fulfilled due to the unique nature of remote work. Including hard skills in the job description and on applicants’ resumes helps employers find candidates who possess the necessary qualifications to excel in a remote environment.

Key Differences Between Remote Job Descriptions and Traditional Job Descriptions

Remote job descriptions tend to emphasize the importance of self-discipline and self-motivation, as remote workers typically have less oversight than those in traditional office settings. Additionally, remote job descriptions often mention the need for strong communication skills, since remote work often relies on effective communication via video calls, instant messaging, and email.

Remote job descriptions may also include language around the need for technical skills, such as proficiency in certain software or hardware that remote workers are likely to use. Finally, remote job descriptions may focus more heavily on an applicant’s ability to work independently and to meet deadlines, as remote work often requires more self-direction and self-management than traditional office positions.

In contrast, traditional job descriptions may place more emphasis on skills such as collaboration, team building, and leadership, as these are typically more important in office settings where employees work in close proximity to one another.

Top Hard Skills to Include in Remote Job Descriptions

Technical proficiency: Be sure to specify the technical proficiencies that are required for the role, such as experience with certain programs or systems.
Time management: Seek out applicants who have a strong track record of managing their time effectively and delivering work on schedule.
Communication: Be sure to look for applicants who are able to articulate their ideas clearly and work collaboratively with others via online channels.
Problem-solving: Remote workers must be able to troubleshoot technical issues, identify roadblocks, and come up with creative solutions to keep projects moving forward. Look for candidates who have a history of proactive problem-solving in their previous roles.

Need some help creating the perfect job post? Take a look at our Small Business Concierge Services!

How to Highlight Hard Skills on Your Resume for Remote Positions

Use bullet points: List out your hard skills, such as software proficiency, language fluency, or project management experience. This makes it easier for recruiters to quickly scan your resume and see your relevant skills.
Quantify your accomplishments: When highlighting your hard skills, include specific examples of how you’ve used them in previous positions. For example, if you’re proficient in a specific software program, mention how you used it to improve a process or increase efficiency.
Tailor your resume: Each remote job may have slightly different requirements for hard skills, so tailor your resume accordingly.
Use keywords: Use relevant keywords throughout your resume, especially in the skills section, to make it easier for recruiters to find your resume during the screening process.

Need some help drafting a resume that shows off your skills? Our resume training services can help!

What hard skills are you noticing that are needed more in a remote workplace versus traditional? Reach out and let us know!

Written by

July 9, 2024

From Dismissal to Digital: Your Guide to Working from Home

From Dismissal to Digital: Your Guide to Working from Home

It happens to everyone. One day you’re going through your daily routine at work, and the next you don’t have a job anymore. The workforce is constantly changing and for one reason or another, you may find yourself without a job one day. What do you do now?

Accepting and Dealing with the Initial Job Loss

The sting of job loss can be daunting, but don’t let it question your worth. It’s okay to take a breather and gather your thoughts. Embrace the upheaval as a chance to grow, employing coping mechanisms to manage stress, and reach out to your support network for strength. Acknowledge your emotions, but remember to approach the next steps with a positive attitude. It’s okay if you need to take a little break from the workforce as well. Use this time to rest, relax, and reset. Process the loss, take a break, and then dive back in when you are ready.

Assess Your Skills and Experience for Work from Home

To start your journey of getting back into the workforce, take a moment to inventory your skills and past experiences, asking yourself, “What could I bring to a work setting?” Reflect on your abilities in areas such as time management, self-discipline, use of communication tools, or specific technical skills relevant to your industry. Take a look at those skills and see what sort of positions they can be applied to — if you have always wanted to work from home, now is the time to try it! Remember, remote work often centers around digital roles, so roles like writing, design, marketing, or administrative roles could be a perfect fit. Leverage your unique skill set to find the perfect remote job for you.

Revising and Tailoring Your Application Materials for Remote Work

It’s time to fine-tune your resume for the virtual workplace. Focus on your expertise that makes you an effective remote worker. Think along the lines of time management, self-discipline, resourcefulness and adeptness at using communication tools. Be sure to spotlight any past remote work experiences, whether they were part-time or occasional. A resume tailored for remote work should underscore your capacity to succeed outside a traditional office environment. Your goal is to demonstrate that you’re equipped to excel in a remote setting.

Your cover letter is your opportunity to stand out from the crowd. For remote work applications, it’s key to stress your self-sufficiency, top-notch communication abilities, and exemplary time management skills. Use this space to illuminate relevant experiences and how they’ve prepared you for remote work. Show that you’re not just familiar with the company, but that you also resonate with its values and mission. A carefully crafted cover letter can open the door to your ideal remote role, so make every word count.

It’s okay if you have never worked in a remote position before! Be honest in your application materials and state this, then give examples of why you think you have the ability to work remotely. This can be examples of how you managed projects on your own without oversight from management or how you always have initiative for new projects that you feel would be best put to use in a remote setting. If you need a little help revising your application materials, you can schedule a one-on-one meeting with our HR experts who will review your materials and walk you through how to best present your unique job experience.

Preparing for Remote Job Interviews

Provide tangible instances of your ability to manage time effectively, communicate clearly, and maintain self-discipline in a virtual setting. Equip yourself with in-depth knowledge about the company and role you’re eyeing. This research will help you to anticipate interview questions and to come up with insightful queries of your own. Remember, your goal is to prove that you’re not just fit for the role, but you can thrive and succeed in a remote work environment.

Transitioning into a Full-Time Work-from-Home Role

Once you’ve successfully landed your remote job, adapting to full-time home-based work will be your next adventure. Designate a specific workspace to minimize distractions and maximize productivity. Implement a consistent routine to structure your day and keep you on track. Harness the power of technology to maintain open lines of communication with your team. Most importantly, create a clear boundary between your work and personal life. This is crucial in ensuring you maintain a healthy balance in this new phase of your career. Remember, your home is now your office, but it’s still your sanctuary too.

Written by

June 9, 2024

What NOT To Put On Your Resume

When it comes to finding remote work opportunities, crafting a strong resume is essential. Your resume is often the first impression a potential employer will have of you, so it’s important to make sure it accurately represents your skills and experiences. However, not all resume skills are created equal. In fact, there are many that you should not include such as:

Generic Soft Skills That Don’t Impress

Including broad and non-specific soft skills on your resume can often dilute the overall impact of your professional qualifications. Phrases such as “excellent communication skills” or “strong leadership abilities” are overused and fail to convey the depth of your capabilities. These types of statements do not differentiate you from other candidates, as they are commonly claimed and hard to quantify. Instead, it’s crucial to showcase your soft skills through tangible achievements or specific instances that illustrate your capabilities. For instance, rather than saying you have “excellent communication skills,” you might mention “developed and implemented a communication protocol for remote teams that increased project completion rates by 30%.” This approach not only demonstrates your skill but also provides measurable evidence of your effectiveness.

If you don’t have data to support statistics such as the 30% mentioned above, you can still detail your experience so that companies better understand how you can help them. The key point here is to provide specific information so employers know what you are bringing to the table.

Outdated Technical Skills and Tools

Including obsolete technical abilities or software on your resume can inadvertently signal to potential employers that your skills have stagnated. You might feel like your resume is lacking and think to put in these tools as filler. Instead of highlighting familiarity with dated programs, emphasize your expertise with contemporary tools and platforms that are pertinent to remote work environments. For instance, rather than noting basic competence in an older software version, it’s more beneficial to mention your adeptness with current collaborative tools such as Slack, Zoom, or cloud-based project management systems like Monday.com. This not only demonstrates that you’re in tune with the technologies that facilitate effective remote work but also underscores your adaptability and willingness to learn and implement new solutions. Concentrate on those technical skills that mirror the demands of the remote job market, showing a commitment to maintaining a cutting-edge skill set.

Irrelevant Job Experiences and Skills

When tailoring your resume for remote work positions, it’s crucial to curate your content with precision, ensuring that every line speaks directly to the job you’re eyeing. Irrelevant job experiences and skills can overshadow the qualifications that make you an ideal candidate for a remote role, causing potential employers to miss your most valuable assets. For individuals, such as stay-at-home moms aiming to re-enter the workforce, this point is especially poignant. Rather than listing every past job or task, focus on selecting experiences that showcase your proficiency in remote-relevant skills like digital literacy, project management, or independent problem-solving.

Consider, for example, the management of household finances or coordination of a community event through online platforms — these experiences, while not traditional jobs, demonstrate capabilities highly transferable to remote positions. Highlighting your involvement in such activities can illustrate your adeptness at managing multiple tasks, organization, and using digital tools.

Overused Buzzwords That Lack Substance

In the competitive realm of remote work, your resume needs to shine without relying on the crutch of cliched buzzwords. Phrases such as “team player,” “hard worker,” and “strategic thinker” pepper too many resumes, making them blend rather than stand out. Instead of falling into the trap of these all-too-common terms, focus on substantiating your qualities through concrete examples and achievements.

For instance, rather than declaring yourself a “team player,” detail a time when you collaborated with a remote team to overcome a challenging project deadline, highlighting the role you played in fostering teamwork and project success. Rather than professing to be a “hard worker,” describe a scenario where your extra efforts directly contributed to a key accomplishment or significantly benefited a project. Swap “strategic thinker” for a description of how you identified a problem, devised a solution, and implemented a strategy that led to measurable improvements.

By replacing generic buzzwords with specific, evidence-based instances of your skills and achievements, you effectively demonstrate your qualifications and value to potential employers in a way that buzzwords alone cannot convey. Remember to keep these explanations short — provide just enough information to interest a company, and then you can explain it further in an interview. For example, you can use bullet points to share information such as “Lead team to transfer from past software to Quickbooks” for an accounting position.

Personal Traits That Are Better Shown Than Told

Highlighting personal traits on your resume can significantly bolster your candidacy for remote work, but it’s crucial to present these characteristics through demonstrable examples rather than mere assertions. Rather than claiming to be “analytical,” for instance, you might describe a time when your analytical approach led to the streamlining of a workflow process, saving time and resources. Similarly, instead of simply stating you are “innovative,” detail a scenario where you initiated and executed a project that introduced a novel solution to an existing problem, resulting in enhanced efficiency or profitability. This method of showcasing your traits provides a vivid illustration of how you apply your personal qualities in a professional setting, offering concrete evidence of your value to potential employers.

Overall, it is important to be more specific and intentional with the job information you provide to potential employers. You don’t want to stuff a resume with tons of text, but it is important to flesh out your experience a bit to communicate what you bring to the table. Need help creating your resume? Our HR experts are here to support you.

Written by

May 9, 2024

Understanding Hard Skills and Soft Skills in Job Applications

In a job application, two critical elements help you stand out: hard skills and soft skills. How you balance these components can be the difference between securing an interview or having your resume passed over. But what exactly are hard skills and soft skills, and when do you use them?

Defining Hard Skills and Soft Skills

Hard skills are specific and measurable capabilities that are often learned through formal education, training programs, certifications, or practical work experience. These skills are task-oriented and job-specific. For instance, proficiency in a particular software, knowledge of a foreign language, or a degree in a specialized field are all examples of hard skills.

Conversely, soft skills are a set of intangible and less quantifiable attributes. They relate to the way you engage and cooperate with others and are generally applicable across various roles and industries. Communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and leadership traits are typically considered soft skills. These skills reflect your personality, attitude, and emotional intelligence, often influencing how you handle work-related situations and interactions. Despite their subjective nature, soft skills play an integral role in creating a positive and effective work environment.

It’s important to note that while hard skills can be easily demonstrated and validated through degrees, certificates, or work samples, validating soft skills can be more challenging. However, they can be communicated through specific examples or scenarios during job interviews or within your cover letter.

The Importance of Hard Skills on Job Applications

Hard skills hold significant weight in job applications. These demonstrable and technical skills form the bedrock of your ability to execute job-related tasks efficiently. When a company is looking to fill a position, the job posting typically delineates the necessary hard skills. These requirements help hiring managers sift through candidates, ensuring that those selected for an interview possess the technical know-how to meet the job’s demands. For example, a posting for a software developer role might specify proficiency in certain programming languages as mandatory. Such precise requirements underscore the significance of relevant hard skills in qualifying for a job. Remember, hard skills are concrete, teachable, and easily measured, making them an essential metric for employers when evaluating potential candidates. Therefore, in your job application, it is paramount to align your listed hard skills with the ones mentioned in the job description, demonstrating your capability to fulfill the job’s responsibilities effectively.

If you come across a job listing asking for specific proficiencies, include those exact words on your application materials. That way it is easy for hiring managers to spot your experience, but it also takes into account the possibility that AI is reading your materials looking for certain keywords.

The Value of Soft Skills in the Job Market

Soft skills are becoming increasingly crucial in today’s job market. Employers are not only focusing on what you can do (hard skills) but also on how you do it (soft skills). This is because these soft skills often reflect a candidate’s ability to gel with the company culture and function effectively within a team. They can be pivotal in distinguishing a great candidate from a merely good one. For instance, qualities like adaptability can indicate how well a candidate will respond to change, while critical thinking can demonstrate their problem-solving abilities. Emotional intelligence, another essential soft skill, can reveal how effectively a candidate manages interpersonal relationships at work. Indeed, in certain sectors, these soft skills may be deemed even more critical than hard skills. This is because while hard skills can be taught, soft skills are typically inherent and developed over time, making them a valuable asset in any employee.

For remote employees, these skills are extra important because communication and teamwork is a must when working far apart from your coworkers. While these types of skills can be difficult to showcase on application materials, it is a good idea to go to courses or seminars on these topics and list those in your resume.

Balancing Hard and Soft Skills in Job Applications

Striking the right equilibrium between your hard and soft skills in your job application can elevate you as a candidate. Highlighting your proficiency in the required technical skills is a must, but don’t overlook the importance of underscoring your interpersonal abilities. To nail this balance, first, dissect the job description thoroughly. Identify the requisite hard skills and ensure these are clearly presented in your resume. Don’t merely list these skills; provide context on how you’ve applied them in past roles to generate results.

In parallel, your application should project your soft skills. These are best exhibited not on your resume, but in your cover letter and the interview process. Use your cover letter as a platform to weave in stories that illustrate your soft skills in action. Maybe you led a project team through a difficult phase or navigated a challenging customer situation with diplomacy. These anecdotes give employers a glimpse into your character and how you might mesh with their organization.

In the interview, draw upon these stories to exhibit your soft skills. An interview is also an excellent opportunity to demonstrate skills like active listening and effective communication. By marrying your hard and soft skills in this way, your application will portray you as a well-rounded candidate, capable of not just doing the job, but thriving within the company culture.

The Synergy of Hard and Soft Skills

To sum up, possessing a balanced blend of hard and soft skills can dramatically amplify your appeal as a job candidate. Hard skills act as clear evidence of your technical proficiency and your capacity to carry out the specific tasks associated with a role. Simultaneously, soft skills provide a window into your personality, indicating how you may integrate with a team and contribute to a positive work culture. The interplay of these skills creates a compelling combination that has the potential to differentiate you from other applicants.

The convergence of hard and soft skills isn’t just about checking off boxes in a job application; it’s about manifesting your unique value proposition, showcasing not just what you can do, but who you are and how you can add value to the organization. This balance can be the key to not only securing a job, but also to succeeding and advancing in your career.

Written by

April 9, 2024

What NOT To Put On Your Resume

Generic Soft Skills That Don’t Impress

Outdated Technical Skills and Tools

Irrelevant Job Experiences and Skills

Overused Buzzwords That Lack Substance

Personal Traits That Are Better Shown Than Told

Written by

January 9, 2024

How to Land a Remote Job without Any Prior Experience

In today’s digital age, the concept of traditional office jobs is rapidly changing. More and more companies are offering remote job opportunities, allowing individuals to work from the comfort of their own home. This is especially beneficial for stay-at-home moms who want to balance their family responsibilities while still pursuing a career. However, one common obstacle for many stay-at-home moms is the lack of prior experience in the workforce. If you’re a stay-at-home mom looking to land a remote job, don’t worry – it is possible!

Understanding Remote Work and its Advantages

With remote work, you have the flexibility to work from anywhere, whether it’s your cozy home office or your favorite coffee shop. No more rushing to beat traffic or having to step away from the office if your kiddo gets sick at school. Remote work allows you to create a work-life balance that suits your needs as a stay-at-home mom. You have the freedom to choose your own hours and manage your time efficiently. Plus, with advancements in technology, collaborating with colleagues and clients from around the world is easier than ever.

Evaluating your Skills and Interests

As a stay-at-home mom, it’s important to evaluate your skills and interests to determine the type of remote job that would be a good fit for you. Consider your previous experiences, hobbies, and any relevant skills you may have developed while raising your children. Take the time to reflect on what you enjoy doing and what you’re passionate about. By identifying your strengths and interests, you’ll be able to narrow down the types of remote jobs that align with your skills and allow you to truly enjoy your work. You can also include this information on your resume; as a mom, you know all about meeting deadlines and staying organized, for example! If you are unsure what skills you have that are marketable to companies, you can schedule a one-on-one session with our HR experts who can help you. Even if you have been out of the workforce for an extended period of time, that’s okay! You have lots of amazing skills you learned from being a mom that you can bring to the table and put to work for any company.

Getting Certified: The Key to Enhancing Your Resume

Getting certified in a specific field can significantly enhance your resume and increase your chances of landing a remote job. Certifications demonstrate your dedication and expertise, giving employers confidence in your abilities. Research the certifications that are relevant to the remote job you’re interested in and invest time in obtaining them. Whether it’s a coding certification or a project management certification, adding these qualifications to your resume can help you stand out from other candidates and show that you’re committed to professional development. This is also helpful so that you don’t have to go to school for a long time or pay a large sum of money; there are great programs out there such as those offered by LinkedIn or Hubspot for all sorts of certifications. Certificates can also show your commitment to companies that you are serious about getting back into the workforce and learning new things.

Building an Appealing and Powerful Resume

A well-crafted resume can make all the difference when applying for a remote job. Showcase your relevant skills and experiences, highlighting any transferable skills gained from your time as a stay-at-home mom. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements to make your resume stand out; if you worked on a project where you grew a company’s social media base by 75%, include that number for potential employers. Don’t forget to tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, and always proofread for any errors or inconsistencies. With a strong and compelling resume, you’ll have a greater chance of catching the attention of potential employers.

Always remember, we are here to help as well. If you ever feel stuck along the way or unsure, you can reach out to us and take a look at our training resources.

Written by

January 9, 2024

How to Stay Focused on Your Goals When the Job Search is Silent

Job searching can be a roller coaster of emotions. There is the excitement of submitting your resume, anticipation of the interview, and joy at getting the job offer. But there can also be a lot of discouragement along the way. If you’re not getting called back for interviews or hired, it can be difficult to stay motivated and focused on your goals. We encourage all companies to update everyone that has reached out, but unfortunately many are not able to with as many applicants as they receive. When you find yourself on the other side of those silent application submissions, here are some tips on what you can do to stay motivated:

Don’t Take it Personally: Remembering It’s a Numbers Game

Receiving rejections or not getting call backs can feel personal, but it’s important to remember that the job search is often a numbers game. There are usually multiple applicants for each position, and the hiring process can be subjective. Don’t let it affect your self-esteem or discourage you from pursuing other opportunities. Focus on what you can control, such as continuously improving your skills and application materials, and trust that the right opportunity will come along.

Keeping Motivated: Surrounding Yourself with Positivity

When facing the discouragement of not getting call backs or job offers, it’s important to surround yourself with positivity. Seek support from friends, family, or mentors who can provide encouragement and remind you of your strengths. Engage in activities that uplift your mood, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Surrounding yourself with positive energy can help you maintain a hopeful mindset and keep you motivated to pursue your goals.

Refining Your Skills: Continuously Learning and Improving

In order to increase your chances of getting called back for interviews and ultimately finding the right job, it’s important to continually refine and improve your skills. Take advantage of online courses, workshops, and networking events to expand your knowledge and stay up to date with industry trends like our self-paced course Cultivate. Seek feedback from professionals in your field and use it as an opportunity to identify areas for growth. By actively working on your skills, you not only enhance your qualifications but also demonstrate your dedication and commitment to potential employers.

Your Resume, Cover Letter and Networking Plan

After experiencing a lack of call backs, it may be necessary to reassess your job search strategy. Take a closer look at your resume and cover letter to ensure they are tailored to each position and highlight your relevant skills and experience. Consider seeking feedback from professionals on our HR team when you use our jobseeker training services. Additionally, evaluate your networking efforts and make any necessary adjustments to expand your professional connections and increase your visibility in the job market.

Embracing Patience: Understanding Success Takes Time

Finding the right job takes time and patience. It’s important to remember that success in the job search doesn’t happen overnight. Each application and interview is an opportunity to learn and grow, even if it doesn’t result in immediate success. Trust in the process and understand that your perfect job may require persistence and perseverance. Embrace the journey and keep pushing forward, knowing that with time, the right opportunity will come your way.

Already found your dream job? Share some tips for your fellow moms who are in the hiring journey right now.

Hire My Mom

Legit work from home jobs