How Can You Stand Out in the Job Market with a Digital Resume?

As technology is slowly transforming the job market, the application process is slowly changing with it. Digital resumes are increasingly becoming more important, but wait…what is a digital resume? A digital resume goes above and beyond a traditional typed-up document. It takes advantage of the other features on a computer to make a resume or portfolio stand out in the job application process. Read on further to learn some ways that you can get started digitally and stand out from the competition.   

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a social media platform that allows users to display their resume online. On a profile, a user is able to share his or her work and volunteer experiences, skills, accomplishments, and much more. In addition to establishing an online presence, users can also use LinkedIn to add contacts to their network, pursue job postings, identify potential employers of interest, read professional development articles and more. If you are new to LinkedIn or interested in learning more about it, watch this video to learn how to maximize your LinkedIn profile.

Website

Having your own website is a great way to tell employers more about yourself. You can include a master resume and even upload portfolio pieces. A portfolio typically highlights your accomplishments and notable projects to support the statements that you have made on your resume. For example you could include: samples of your written work, awards, and certifications. If you do not have a portfolio yet, why not start a blog? Blogging not only demonstrates your writing ability to an employer, but it also informs them of your ideas and opinions. So whether you are using a portfolio, blog and/or website, demonstrate your creativity and showcase your unique personality to allow employers to really get to know who you are. For more ideas of portfolio items, read this article.

Graphics

If you are interested or skilled in graphic design, you can also work on making your resume more visually appealing. Try experimenting with colour, images, fonts, and spacing to attract an employer’s attention. Generally industries that value creativity like public relations, marketing, journalism, web design, and graphic design, value creative and visual resumes because it demonstrates your skills that are used on the job. However, it is important to consider your profession and industry, as a visual resume is not appropriate for all employers.  For more information, read Is a Creative Resume Right for You? and 6 Steps to Creating a Knockout Online Portfolio.

A digital resume can help get your name, background, skills, and interests out on the Internet for others to see. However, keep thinking of diverse ways to use technological tools and resources available to you to stand out in the job market.

Lead image used under a Creative Commons licence from Flirkr user, David Ortez.