For the past two evenings, 12 American Idol contestants sang to the world and, on a dime, the world turned ugly for 9.
Several submissions ago we juxtaposed the show with career marketing; the similarities keep on coming. Simon mentioned to one hopeful that he just did not look like an Idol; true enough (after further review) the contestant had the voice but there was no connection…hmmm, how many times have you heard that in an interview setting?
Resume development, career summaries/objectives, cover letters, and the way you present yourself beyond paper defines who you are and makes your career persona come to life. Like it or not, you are who the person sitting across the table believes you to be. The tricky part is getting Simon, Paula, or a hiring executive to see you as the “right” candidate.
I did not want to rush into any decision so I waited a lofty ten seconds before making up my mind as to who I liked (and this was before a single tone departed singing lips). What does this mean to you, the student looking for a job or the executive seeking advancement or a career transition? Pure and simple, it means you MUST impress instantly—even before any handshaking. Be aware that the ways to lose the first round is to present sloppy material, dress inappropriately, or display a shaky character (never forget the words of a song and NEVER forget YOUR VALUE).
Value is what the hiring executive is looking for. Value is what you bring to the company. For the seasoned executive, value is hitting the pavement running, reducing costs, increasing production, developing processes, penetrating new markets, etc. For the student, value is the foundation of knowledge and skills acquired in college or a university as well as the strength to complete projects.
Value believability is weighed by quantifiable accomplishments; in other words, the past predicts the future. According to the Professional Resume Writers Association, 7% of people believe what they are told while 93% of people believes what they are shown. When applicable, show the reader what you completed with facts, figures, and metrics. As your career progresses, keep a journal of metric accomplishments and bring the total package to the stage for the judges to perceive.
Much like American Idol, a successful career portfolio is not just what you bring to the table; it’s also the image presented and the ability to convince others you are the right choice. One more thing, make sure you sing the right song by supporting the right objective on your resume.
Danny Huffman, MA, CPRW, CPCC, CEIP
dhuffman@careersi.com
Education Career Services: http://www.educationcs.com
Career Services International: http://www.careersi.com
Education Career Services 
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