Robynn Storey

Oh the jargon! We use the philosophy of creating resumes with simple, straightforward language that tells a relatable story. One that everyone can understand. Not everyone involved in the hiring process is going to be knowledgeable about the vernacular of every industry and function. When resumes get to “buzzword” focused, it’s an immediate turnoff for anyone who doesn’t know that language.

I’ve never been a big fan of tailoring a resume for every job. It’s extremely time consuming and job descriptions for the same job can have as many varied requirements as a snowflake. Instead, create a solid resume by focusing on your genuine story and accomplishments in each of your roles. Those experiences, with the metrics and results will show why/how you have been successful in your field. Most employers aren’t looking for a running checklist for each point of the job requisition…they want your genuine skills and experience to shine through. Both in your resume and the interview.

Every career has had a setback. Maybe 2. Every experience is a learning experience, so whatever you did, whatever you accomplished, whatever you impacted in that job, a lower title/step back job should be treated like every other job on your resume. If it was a filler job, less than 6 months, it can be left off the resume. If you are asked about it in an interview, tell the honest truth about why you took the role, ie "I know I was overqualified, but they were a great company, had a great product, and really needed the help. I believed, and still do, that my contributions there significantly contributed to their growth, success, etc." Every story can be spun into a tale that weaves your career together.

Everyone thinks they are a resume expert. Ask 10 different people what you should have on your resume, and you’ll get 10 different answers. As the owner of one of the largest resume firms in the USA (24 years of experience, hundreds of thousands of customers, and 70 staff members), I can tell you a few key things. Make sure your resume has some focus and direction regarding the job that you want. Resumes that are “everything to everyone” are ineffective. Your resume should have content around your professional accomplishments and impact, ie, what did you do to make your employer better? Too many people focus specifically on their duties. That’s boring. Tell me what makes you special. That’s where a good resume begins!

I think it’s always a mistake to stack your team with people who act, think and behave the same way. It’s incredibly impressive that you don’t overlook talent when hiring. Some people are more shy. Some are more introverted. Some are funny, loud, outgoing or serious. It’s the differences that make work fun! When you have all kinds of personalities in the mix, it improves creativity and innovation!

People don’t lack motivation. They lack bosses who understand what motivates them. Motivation is not an easy fix. For some people, they are motivated by money. That’s an easy one….work hard, make more money. For other people, motivation could be flexibility. For others, motivation can be working with a great, fun, and rewarding team. Others, it might be just leaving them alone to do their jobs. If someone on your team is unmotivated, take the time to figure out what makes them tick. My favorite boss that I ever had was like a giant, protective papa bear who protected his (young) team from being bullied at work. The big boss was a mean and aggressive guy, but our boss insulated us from him. I’d have run through a wall for him.