Job-hunters often spend a good portion of their time learning how to make a resume. I thought about that process while watching a video of an interview with actor Jim Carrey.
The interview demonstrates three principles that will help you write an effective resume that leads to a job offer.
First, display your strengths prominently in your resume.
Jim Carrey clearly knows that humor is his strong suit. He tries to be funny in nearly every sentence of the interview. He even talks about how he uses Star Wars impressions to connect with the autistic 10-year-old son of his girlfriend, Jenny McCarthy.
As you’re putting together your resume, think about your strong points. Don’t limit yourself to work tasks. Consider everything that you do well. Focus on how to make a resume that emphasizes those strengths in a manner that demonstrates how well you can do the job.
Second, say yes to opportunities.
Get your resume out there. If there is a job opening that you think you’d like, apply for it. Even if you think you might not be qualified, give it a shot. If you really want the job, that desire might offset any lack of experience or other shortcomings. You never know until you try.
You also need to be proactive about participating in activities and events that might lead to a job opportunity. Many people get hired after someone they know tells them about a job that they would have otherwise missed. If a networking opportunity comes along, say yes.
Third, don’t fear rejection.
Jim Carrey wrote a letter to The Carol Burnett Show when he was 10 years old, asking to be a regular on the show. He didn’t the job, but that didn’t discourage him.
When you’re applying for jobs, don’t worry that you might not get it. Don’t be concerned that the prospective employer might say no. Think about the possibility that he or she will say yes.
Many jobseekers fail to write effective resumes because they are too timid. They focus on what they can’t do, instead of what they can do.
Once you know how to make a resume that highlights your best points, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job.