Résumé Distribution - The 4 Pillars

As a job search coach one of the most frequently questions I am asked is, "What method should I use to distribute my résumé?" My answer: "It all works, if you use it all."

These days there are 4 pillars or options when distributing your résumé - Effectively putting you on the radar.

1.      Networking - Since this seems to be all the rage we'll start here. Get out of the home office and become acquainted with area industry associations and groups with likeminded destinations. As you increase the professionals in your network, expect access to information to increase exponentially.

2.      Recruiters: Pass your résumé out to as many recruiters as you can. Just remember, they work for the companies they represent, not you! They are not here to find you a job. Call them once a week (or less) but don't stalk. Always be up front with recruiters - Lying is a good way to be blacklisted in several far-reaching circles.

3.      Company Job Sites: Browse and submit your résumé to the careers/jobs section of companies you are targeting. There are plenty of jobs posted and this is a vital resource. While this may seem like a database black hole, you can be sure all hiring managers and human resources personnel will point you there. Run through the formality.

4.      Job Boards: Yup. They still work. How do I know? Long story short - Recognized friend from high school mention rebuilding the IT department at his employer. Although he provided the jobs to me before they were posted, he did have the openings posted on several boards (i.e. Career Board, Career Builder, Dice and Monster). Two leading IT jobs.

Keep in mind there are several types of media to utilize throughout your distribution - Email, snail mail, text posting, browse and attach, hard copy delivery, etc - Be sure to use them all as you never know which will lead to success...