First Steps to Getting the Contract . . .

 Want to know what gets your foot in the door? What sends your resume into the deleted files?  Great proposals, applications, and resumes stand out in the pile of applications.  It's worth the time and energy to produce outstanding documents.  The first step is to update your resume.

 Let’s Look at Common Reasons for Rejection . . .

- Your name is missing.  Make sure it is clearly placed on each page. Your name should stand out – consider putting it in a larger font size.

- Missing phone and/or e-mail address, or out of date e-mail address.

- Education category is missing dates, no major and/or degree is listed, the university name is missing, and/or abbreviations are used inappropriately.

- Employment accomplishment statements should be no longer than 4 lines if stated in paragraph format, no dates of employment are listed, no employer names are listed and/or resume does not include accomplishment statements.

- Too long? Your resume should not exceed 3 full pages in length.  A single page resume should be ¾ to 1 whole page in length.

- Hard to read? Fonts should be traditional; do not use italics, script or more than one font on your resume. Avoid fancy fonts.

 - Font size 10-12 is generally acceptable. Anything smaller is hard to read.

- Typos? Check spelling and grammar. Ask someone else to proof-read for you. Do not rely on sprell-cheque.

- The resume should show what you have to offer, NOT what you want to get.

- Avoid over-using "I, me, and my"

- Avoid abbreviations and acronyms – the person reading your resume may not necessarily know what you are referring to. 

 - Don’t mention the names of your parents, spouses, relatives and their occupations, (nobody is interested).

 - Don’t “exaggerate” your information in the covering letter or resume. It will be obvious to most readers.

 - Use plain, business-like paper, not patterns or wild colours.  Remember that your resume will most likely be photocopied.

 - Send in the original version, not a poor photocopy. Update to fit this application. Do not submit a resume with coffee stains on the back page!

 - Missing information? Did you read the job ad or request for proposal carefully?  Have you included all requested information?

 Employers (and contractors) in essence want to know how hiring you will benefit their business now and in the future. It is very important to research and understand the position for which you are applying.  Employers are busy, so make it easy for them to remember you!

(Source: CTI, April 2005)

 Hope you get the contract!

Here's your opportunity to connect, share and learn with other entrepreneurs from across the city and Northwestern Ontario .  Every 4th Wednesday of the month, PARO will be hosting themed networking events providing you a chance to showcase your service and/or products, learn valuable information to help you grow and prosper both in business and in your personal life.  

Watch next weeks PARO Link for the May 24th Location and details!!