ScarTechThe musings of a confessed code junkie.

You don’t sell the steak. You sell the sizzle.Filed Under: Career Development

First thing. Is your resume up-to-date? If not, close this browser window, go update your resume and come back later. If you’re still reading, then I’ll assume you’ve got an updated resume. It might be current, but is it any good? I read this Justin James post on TechRepublic today about how to write a resume that will help land you a programming job. The point that Justin makes that I most agree with is that you should should stress your skills, particularly how they apply to the job you’re seeking.

I don’t expect your employment history to include a list of all your skills. But if you are looking for work as a .Net developer, show me that you have done some .Net work. If you do not list that experience, I am going to assume that you have little or no experience with it — even if it is on your skill list. If you have large amounts of experience outside of the workforce, find a way to show that on your resume.

That’s great advice. The point of your resume is to get your foot in the door for an interview, so make sure you include relevant experience. Just like Kramer says, “You don’t sell the steak, you sell the sizzle.” You’ll have plenty of chance to sell the “steak” at the interview.

Tags: Career Development

Career Self-SabotageFiled Under: Career Development

Here’s an excellent article that 3 paths to career self-sabotage. Part of being a good developer has to include having a job! This article has motivated me to add a new point to the list of things I’m going to do to become a better developer. I’ll create a personal action plan for my professional development.

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/tech-manager/?p=340