Resume Tips for Job Search Success in 2018

When you’re looking for a job with a criminal charge on your record, it can be tough. There are a lot of mistakes that past criminals make when applying for jobs that can hold them back from their dream position. So don’t miss out on the career you deserve. Use these following resume tips to supercharge your search in 2018.

Format Your Resume Professionally

The right formatting can make a big difference in whether or not you get the job. Without a great formatted resume, it can look sloppy or lazy. Companies like to see that you are using modern standards for today’s layout. It shows that you keep up with the job market and your industry.

Leverage Social

There are various ways to leverage social media to help with your job search. The biggest mistake is simply ignoring social media, even if you don’t like using it. Look at getting a job as your only job right now, and you can change your perspective.

To get the most out of social, get an account on LinkedIn. If you already have a profile, it’s time to clean it up. Make sure you fill out your profile information top to bottom. The more you can share about your experience level and expertise, the better. Also, Use the best photo that exists of you in your profile. It should be within five years old, however. Finally, make sure you are leveraging social proof by getting endorsements for your skills.

Ditch the Old Stuff

It can be tempting to look at your experience and job history and put everything on your resume. It might seem like this makes it more impressive, but in reality the HR departments and hiring managers who will be looking at your resume don’t want to spend ages reading it.

Include only the most recent 3-5 jobs you have had. If there is a gap, find a way to explain it in the interview rather than worrying about it by lying on your resume. Honesty is always the best policy and will pay off in the long run.

When it comes to job hunting in today’s day and age, it is tough enough. You are already competing with the world instead of just your local talent pool. Add to this the fact that you have a criminal record and you need to try harder than other candidates just to be considered. So use the tips above and enjoy finding the right job for you.

An average of 22% of all justice-involved individuals in the state of Virginia are expected to be re-arrested, re-convicted, and/or re-incarcerated. Strengthening societal relationships and making effective use of time has proven to deter individuals from returning to prison. We are here to be a direct link to those deterrents. They’re counting on failure; we’re working towards success!

Sources

  • Resume Format Tips You Need to Know in 2018 | TMV Social
  • How to Explain Employment Gaps in an Interview | Indeed
  • Maximize LinkedIn in Your Job Search | UNCW

 


How to Create a LinkedIn Profile That Says “Hire Me!”

If you have a criminal record and are looking to integrate back into society by finding a job, it can be difficult. However, it doesn’t have to be. If you use the right tools and tactics with regards to your LinkedIn profile, you can get hired in no time. Here are some solid tips to help you master your LinkedIn profile so employers can’t wait to bring you on board:

Custom URL

Customizing your LinkedIn profile can make a difference, especially when it comes to he URL. It shows employers that you care, first of all. Second, you can be found more easily online with a url extension that is shorter, easier to remember, and connected to your name instead of some random extension like “y22789gs.” For a quick guide on how to customize your URL, click here.

Profile Photo

There is a reason that people say pictures speak a thousand words. According to Justin Berrington, a professional headshot on your profile can build credibility, polish your branding, position you as an expert, and help you make a lasting impression in a recruiter’s mind. Make sure your profile photo is your best picture that exists of you. It should be well lit, show you smiling, and use neutral clothing that is appropriate for your industry.

Write up a Summary

Don’t try to save five minutes by avoiding the summary writing portion of your profile update. If you do, it could hurt you in the long run. And be sure to avoid mentioning your criminal past. Candidates will little or no summaries or criminal backgrounds come off as inexperienced, risky, or lazy, and that’s the last thing you want an employer thinking about you.

Avoid Buzzwords

Buzzwords are tempting. They are used everywhere online today, and many in your industry might use them in their blogs. However, they are largely empty of meaning and great employers are looking for results and experience, not platitudes.

Recommendations

Make sure you have as many recommendations as possible on your profile. These are often easy to get if you reach out to former colleagues and employers with a kind request. It can help you rebuild your reputation in the eyes of employers. In addition, make sure to get endorsements for your skills: social proof is a powerful thing.

Status Updates

If you were browsing someone’s profile and they hadn’t updated their status in ages, what would you think about them? Well, anyone that comes across your profile will think the same thing if it’s outdated. According to Hannah Morgan, the key here is to share status updates that appeal to your network and potential employers. Those who update their status weekly are 10x more likely to be contacted by recruiters!

When it comes to creating a LinkedIn profile that says “hire me” when you have a criminal record, you need to do more than the bare minimum. A little thought and imagination will go a long way at the beginning. So implement the tips above and land your dream job before you know it.

At NoLef Turns, we believe that everyone deserves another chance. We have launched a campaign to fight against the “Forever Felon”. Follow @nolefturnsinc on IG or Facebook for updates on the many inalienable rights lost due to a felony conviction in Virginia.


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