I recently sat down with another very talented Certified Resume Strategist, Mariah Mitsilios, to get another expert’s perspective on the world of resume writing and it was illuminating. Mariah and I have been working alongside each other as resume writers for quite some time and it was great to hear her perspective and great advice!
Here’s the interview… lightly edited for brevity (we can easily talk about resumes for hours on end… and we often do)
Greg: All right, Mariah, let's kick things off. Could you tell us about how you got started in the realm of resume writing?
Mariah: Absolutely, Greg. It all began during the pandemic and lockdown measures when I found myself without a job. After updating my resume and not getting the desired results, a fortunate connection through my fiancé led me to participate in your Job Search Institute program. As I progressed through the program, I found my passion for crafting effective resumes (and your confidence in my ability inspired me to become a Certified Resume Strategist (CRS).
Greg: That was quite an inspiring journey, Mariah. I was flabbergasted by how well you wrote your own resume. Now, my first resume question… in your opinion, what are the top three crucial elements that define a strong resume?
Mariah: Well, Greg, there are three key elements that I believe every effective resume should have.
Impeccable grammar and spelling are essential to create a positive impression.
The layout and format should enhance scannability, allowing readers to quickly locate pertinent information.
Incorporating a touch of personal branding at the top of the resume can make it more engaging and encourage readers to delve into your experience.
Greg: I completely agree, Mariah. Moving on, considering your extensive experience, what's the most common mistake you see people making on their resumes?
Mariah: Greg, a common mistake is including irrelevant information. Many individuals tend to overcrowd their resumes with details that don't align with the job they're applying for. Tailoring your resume to showcase relevant skills and experiences is crucial. Remember, a resume is a marketing tool, and every piece of information should contribute to your desired narrative.
Greg: You've mentioned that ATS scanners play a significant role in today's hiring process. What advice would you offer to ensure resumes get past these scanners effectively?
Mariah: Absolutely, Greg. One crucial tip is to avoid using templates that might not be ATS-friendly. Using Microsoft Word is a reliable choice, and it's important to create a template that is easy to read in plain text. You can preview this by converting your resume and ensuring it remains legible even to the automated systems.
Greg: Outstanding advice, Mariah. I know you’re also really great at picking out the right keywords for our clients. Now, let's explore a concern many people have—how to effectively sell themselves in a resume. What would you say to those struggling to showcase their strengths?
Mariah: It can be really challenging to highlight your own strengths. My suggestion is to view your resume as an extension of yourself, a marketing tool that communicates your capabilities. Seek input from friends or colleagues on your past accomplishments, then translate those insights into compelling bullet points on your resume. This approach can help alleviate the pressure and present a more accurate image of your capabilities.
Greg: Well put, Mariah. Lastly, let's get to know you a bit better. What do you enjoy doing outside of your work in resume writing?
Mariah: When I'm not connecting with clients and writing resumes, I absolutely love reading, going to the movies (especially the drive-in) and I also like to stay active by going for evening walks with my husband.
Greg: That sounds like a well-rounded way to relax, Mariah. And thank you for introducing Ariana and I to the drive-in theatre. We love it now too! Also, thank you for sharing your valuable insights and experiences with us. It's been a pleasure having you here!
Mariah: Thank you, Greg. It's been a pleasure discussing the art of resume writing with you. I hope our conversation helps aspiring job seekers enhance their resumes and achieve their career goals.
And there you have it! Mariah's journey from a pandemic job loss to becoming a Certified Resume Strategist has brought to light the significance of a well-crafted resume. Remember, it's not just about listing your experiences, but also effectively presenting them in a way that resonates with potential employers. So, next time you're updating your resume, keep Mariah's expert tips in mind to stand out in the competitive job market.
Learn more about working with Mariah and Greg on your resume here:
Mariah Mitsilios, Certified Resume Strategist