When it comes to resume writing, what’s right?

Conscious Resumes.

Dictionary.com defines an opinion as “a view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.” But in the world of recruiting and career transformation, what exactly is a fact?

Do you need a resume to get a job? Mostly, but not always.
Do you need to network to get an in? It helps, but no.
Do hiring managers read cover letters? Maybe.

Even if there were statistics behind those questions, it ultimately comes down to a human with authoritative decision-making and having an (unbiased) opinion.

We’ve only been in the information age since the 1970s, and many jobs haven’t even been created yet. Social Media Influencers didn’t exist when I was a kid. Plant-based meat didn’t exist. Billionaires weren’t entering the space industry. Yet, with time, things change. So, why are we still recruiting and hiring as if the world didn’t just experience a crippling pandemic? As if women haven’t spent decades trying to break the glass ceiling? As if we aren’t on the edge of a paradigm shift where employees are reprioritizing their non-negotiables? Everything has changed.

As a natural disruptor and trailblazer, I’m pushing the boundaries with my new resume ideology – a conscious resume – to really highlight who you are as a whole person. Hiring managers are not just hiring a robot to fulfill technical or functional tasks; there’s so much more behind those layers. Why make them work to understand your personality (or make an assumption)? Intentionally share it with them. With the surge of virtual interviewing, you are losing the opportunity for small talk and energetic connections in the hallways. Translate that small talk onto paper. Make their job easy.

Should you put personal information on your professional resume? Some say yes, some say no.
Should you have a professional summary? Some say yes, some say no.
Should you create a cover letter? Maybe.
Should you include your headshot? It depends on the industry and country you’re applying within.

At the end of the day, be you. You are the answer. You are the niche. Present yourself however you think you should for the role or career you want. Of course, I have an opinion, but so do you. Trust your intuition. Remember that rejection is both protection and redirection. What’s meant for you won’t miss you.

As more conscious leaders are created on both sides of the hiring equation, empathy, compassion, and mindfulness will permeate throughout Corporate America and beyond. Are you ready to bring your authentic self into the world and workplace? Let’s be a part of the conscious change; we can jump in together.