Learn how to grab employers' attention for all the right reasons in this webinar.

With record unemployment, the job market is more competitive than ever. Learn how to shift your job-search strategy and grab employers' attention for all the right reasons during this free webinar hosted by TopResume career expert Amanda Augustine. During this recorded webinar, Amanda answers your job-search questions and explains how to:

  • Find the right opportunities for your next career move

  • Grab employers' attention with your resume and cover letter

  • Leverage your network to make a lasting impression

We received such great job-search questions throughout the webinar! Below is just a sample of the questions you asked with Amanda's responses:

Can I resubmit my resume for a particular job?

If an employer sent you an email saying they don't think you're a good fit because of something on your resume, but you really like the company, can you change the thing they didn't like and resubmit? Do you think they would remember you? — Erica F. 

If your application was dismissed because the employer felt you lacked a certain qualification that you actually have but failed to showcase on your resume, you can certainly resubmit your resume with this new information. 

In addition, if your qualifications have changed for the better or you've had your resume professionally written since your initial application, go ahead and apply a second time. Depending on the system the employer is using, you may be able to upload a new version of your resume into your candidate file, or you can simply reapply. While you're at it, take a closer look at the job requirements and see if your resume could be further tailored to the specific role

Click on the following link for more details on when it's worthwhile to reapply for a position.

What's the best file type to use for your resume?

Not sure if it's been asked: DOC or PDF? — David J.

While PDF files are favored because they ensure your resume's format and design will remain unchanged, not all applicant tracking systems (ATS) are able to read this type of file. If you're submitting your resume for a position and the system specifically states that it will accept PDF files, feel free to use that file type. 

However, if you're unsure what system the employer is using or whether that system accepts PDF files, play it safe and use a Word document file instead.

How long should a resume be? 

Is there an ideal length of the resume - 2/3/4 pages? Is there a metric for number of pages per decade of experience? — Devendra S.

Most resumes used in the private sector should be one or two pages in length. And, according to a fairly recent study, recruiters are 2.3 times as likely to prefer two-page resumes over one-page resumes, regardless of a candidate's job level. 

While there will always be exceptions to the resume-length rule, most professionals should aim for that two-page resume. Click on the following link for everything you need to know about how to achieve the ideal resume length.

Should I use a resume summary or a resume objective?

What is good these days: A professional summary or objective? — Jasper O.

Ditch the objective statement and opt for a professional summary — also known as an executive summary or a CV personal statement — that pitches your qualifications (i.e. your selling points) for the job you're targeting and what you can offer to a potential employer. Click on the following link to learn more about the differences between an objective and a summary — and take a look at some sample resume professional summaries.

Follow Amanda and TopResume on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for more job-search advice and to learn about upcoming events!

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