Valentines and Resumes

People often draw comparisons between the job search and dating. They’re both really about finding the perfect fit.

Well, in honor of Valentine’s Day, I’m going to take this comparison a bit further. As you prepare resumes for jobs and internships in your near future, I want you to think about resumes as valentines. They should both convey your true self in an honest and straight-forward way.

How are resumes and valentines related?

Both are traditional forms of communication that are evolving with technology. Resumes and valentines should be well written no matter what but can be adapted to any number of digital platforms. Just don’t confuse LinkedIn with Match.com.

Both should be personally tailored for the intended recipient. You sure don’t want your Valentine to feel like one among many. Same goes for potential employers. They should see that your resume is written specifically for them.

Both should be written in a strong, active voice. On a valentine, this means: "I love you." NOT "You are loved by me.” On a resume this means: Begin each entry with a strong, active verb. What have you done that shows you are ready for the job to which you apply? Strong, active verbs include pioneered, spearheaded, published, managed, created, designed, developed, revitalized, produced, promoted, directed, collaborated …

Both require attention to detail. They should be edited for correct spelling, grammar and punctuation. You don’t want your Valentine or your potential employer to miss the message because of some silly mistake. 

Both should be written in a consistent voice. You don’t want your Valentine or your potential employer to think you have multiple personalities.

On that note, never lie on a resume or a valentine. 

Parallelism will make both valentines and resumes sing. ("For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul.” --Judy Garland)

Best of luck in your lives and careers, 

Prof. Nix