ChicagoJobTalk.org

Many Parts to a Job Search

I have been looking for a new job for over a year. I am not sure what the problem may be. I was a Controller a few years ago and am now a Senior Accountant, does that look bad? Are there good Accounting recruiters that you can recommend? I will paste my resume here for you to look at.

Without speaking to you directly, I can not guess what the problems might be. There are many parts to a job search - the resume, cover letter, target marketing, interview skills, follow up, etc. I will try to make some general suggestions and you can take from this what might apply to you.

1. Your resume could use some strengthening. A resume should be directed TOWARD a position, not written FROM the tasks that you performed. A resume should list accomplishments indicating quantifiable results. There is a great deal of competition in the market place today and you must show how you stand out among the crowd. Also, since you graduated 20 years ago, the education should be listed at the end of the resume. Generally, a summary of qualifications is listed first. You might check some resume books at your local library or see a counselor for some help.
2. A cover letter is also important which shows your written communication skills as well.
3. You must also apply for jobs that you are qualified for - and adapt your resume to meet the needs of the employer.
4. There are lots of "rules" for making a good impression during a phone interview as well as a face to face interview.
5. Follow up can make a difference after you meet with an organization.

As you can see, there are many steps to securing good employment, the changes in title are only one challenge along the way. It is a difficult process and again, I suggest you look for some agencies in your area that might help you learn more effective job search strategies - before you contact recruiters. Recruiters are inundated with candidates - you might want to learn some skills that will get you noticed. Recruiters will only work with candidates that they believe they can place. Most recruiters work for the employer, and will look for candidates that fill the needs they have. While you are at the library, ask the librarian to help you review the list of accounting recruiters in your area.