However, many job seekers don’t bother applying during the holidays because they think companies aren’t hiring or that the process is slow. Some job seekers believe that potential employers take vacations during this time, and there is no point in submitting a resume.

But this isn’t always the case; research by Career Builder shows that about 43% of organizations plan to hire permanent employees before the year ends. That means nearly half of potential employers are seeking top talent at a time when many other people aren’t even bothering to apply. It’s your opportunity to craft a great professional resume and stand out from the competition!

This article will go through all the hiring myths that can hinder your end-of-year job-hunting process.

Myth #1: Employers Don’t Hire Until January

Many people believe the hiring myths that companies don’t hire at the end of the year. But that’s not true. To run a successful business, organizations need to plan. Therefore, many companies start planning for next year before January, which includes their hiring process. Some begin the job recruiting before the start of the year and shortlist potential candidates from the end-of-year job applications.

Many of these Q4 job applicants could become new Q1 hires!

So, don’t wait until January to start looking for a job; you’ll likely miss out on some great opportunities. Instead, be proactive and start preparing your resume now. Getting your resume in front of the hiring team now will increase your chances of being contacted for interviews in the coming months.

Additionally, using a professional resume writing service can provide an edge over the competition by highlighting your skills and experience to help you stand out on your resume. When less people are applying you have an even better chance to wow job recruiters.

Finally, don’t forget to keep an eye on job postings and networking events throughout the holiday season. There’s no guarantee that you’ll find your dream job immediately, but putting in the effort early (and year-round) will yield the best chance of success.

Myth #2: I don’t have to get my resume or LinkedIn done until January (Q1)

Many job seekers make the mistake of neglecting to prepare the required documents before applying. The best time to start working on your resume is now, even if you don’t have all the details finalized.

Finalizing your resume and LinkedIn profile before January is essential. That way, you’ll be well-positioned to take advantage of job opportunities in the fourth quarter. Many people miss out on jobs because their resume isn’t ready, so don’t wait until the last minute.

A majority of job seekers don’t have time to write a resume or lack confidence in their ability to represent their skills on paper. In that case, you can always ask for expert resume writing help to elevate your visibility to hiring managers with a professionally written resume.

Furthermore, having a well-optimized LinkedIn profile in place also increases your chances of getting hired because LinkedIn serves as a passive networking tool all year round. Leading resume writing services like Capstone Resume Services also offer Linkedin profile optimization services. So, take advantage of all the resources available to you and get your resume and LI profile ready for hiring managers!

Myth #3: Companies don’t have hiring budgets in Q4, so best to wait until January (Q1) to submit a resume

As the end of the year approaches, many job seekers wonder if it’s worth submitting their resumes or if companies hire during Q4. After all, shouldn’t companies be wrapping up their hiring for the year? It’s one of the popular hiring myths that simply aren’t true.

It’s a common misconception that companies don’t have hiring budgets in Q4, and it’s best to wait until January to submit a resume. However, this is not always the case. Many companies operate on a “use it or lose it” principle regarding the budget. So, at the end of the year, when heads of departments know they still have an available hiring budget in the company, they may be more inclined to utilize the available resources. Hiring managers would rather spend their recruiting budget than lose it for next year.

Moreover, managers assess organizational performance through annual progress reports and identify what talent they want to bring to fill the gaps or round out the team. This scenario means there may be more opportunities for job seekers during Q4 than at other times of the year.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a job, don’t let such hiring myths dissuade you from applying during Q4. You may find your dream job!

External Factors That Affect Q4 Hiring

While we’ve just debunked several popular hiring myths, there are external factors that can affect hiring during Q4 as well.

Take recent events for example, with the major layoffs at Twitter, Meta, and many other technology positions. Meta alone laid off more than 11,000 people during their workforce reduction measures. With all these major layoffs, a large pool of talented technology workers have re-entered the workforce.

Other companies that are seeking top talent will see this as a major hiring opportunity, and won’t be waiting until the first quarter to scoop up some of the top talents from these technology giants. Technology companies that are growing will be hiring technical workers quickly to make sure they get the best of the best.

To take advantage of this, individuals in technology need to make sure they have an updated technical resume to stand out in the crowd of talent. With so many workers re-entering the workforce, there is going to be stiff competition for technology positions.

That is why it will be more important than ever for technology workers to review and update technical resumes, or find a certified technical resume writer who can improve your resume. With a top technical resume writing service, you can create a resume that highlights your technical skills, talent, and experience in a way that your competitors do not. With a resume written by a technical resume writer, you can be sure that your resume will differentiate you from other candidates, and get you to your first technical interview.

Hire the Best Resume Writing Service, Capstone Resume Services!

If you’re looking for a new job or want to spruce up your resume for future prospects, the CPRW-certified resume writers Capstone Resume Services can help. Our professional resume writers work one-on-one with our clients to learn about their experiences, achievements, and goals so that we can create a resume that best represents them.

At Capstone, a team of professional resume writers optimizes your credentials for entry- to executive-level, federal, technical, and financial job seekers with LinkedIn optimization service, making it easier for you to land your next dream job.

So if you’re ready to take the next step in your career, give Capstone Resume Services a try — we promise you won’t be disappointed!

Set up your FREE consultation with our top resume writers today!

In 2022, the world’s future remains uncertain, but job seekers have the power to take control of their own futures. New opportunities, changing values, and a massive labor shortage have set up a year that promises to be impactful. It’s the perfect time for you to make your next career move.

The right job is out there. The year 2021 closed with almost 11 million job openings in the U.S., and the job growth rate has shown no sign of slowing down. In January, employers added 467,000 jobs. 

The job market is booming, and it’s a great time to take advantage of it. We’re sharing five reasons job seekers should celebrate in 2022.

5 Reasons Job Seekers Should Make Career Moves in 2022

The job search can be a source of anxiety, but this year, the ball is in your court. Keep these five things in mind as you look for your next position.

You Are in Demand

The U.S. currently suffers from a huge labor shortage. For every 100 job openings, there are only about 65 unemployed workers. 

Even as the economy recovers, the pandemic remains a very real concern. It kept some people at home for health or childcare reasons and led others to retire during the past couple of years. The labor force participation rate remains below 62%, which is significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels. A lot of people without jobs aren’t looking for them.

Employers need employees. They’re offering you higher wages, hiring bonuses, and better benefits because they have to. 

Your Future Employer Has Learned to Value You

These advantages result from more than simple supply and demand. They also reflect a cultural shift in attitudes toward work. 

The Great Resignation began in July 2021. In the midst of the tight labor shortage, millions of Americans started to quit their jobs in record numbers. They then turned around and found better jobs, creating a war for talent at all levels that have exhausted recruiters. 

Without a stable, contented workforce, company growth is impossible. Smart companies have done more than revamp compensation packages. They’ve invested in your happiness with better perks, conditions, and work culture. 

Flexible Work Options Have Become the Norm

One of the biggest changes is the shift towards flexible work options. The pandemic taught us how to accommodate remote work. A lot of companies have started offering completely remote working options or shifted to a hybrid model. Among other benefits, this change expands the geographic boundaries of your job search.

Even if an employer wants an on-site employee, they may be willing to compromise. You have the power to leverage, and flexible work options are a common bargaining point.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Goals Are a Top Priority

Today’s job seekers demand more of employers, particularly in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This younger workforce looks for equitable and inclusive workplaces that fit their values. And they’re more skeptical than ever of idealistic rhetoric that isn’t reflected in real hiring practices.

Social justice issues have come to the forefront over the last few years. When a company claims to want diverse candidates, there’s a good chance they mean it. The result is more opportunities for people of color, and healthier, more dynamic work environments for all.

Growing Industries and Job Roles Need Top Talent

If you’re entering the job market for the first time or looking to make a career change, know that a number of industries show significant job growth. These five display some of the highest recent numbers:

• Scenic and sightseeing transportation
• Magnetic media manufacturing and reproduction
• Couriers and messengers
• Motion picture and sound recording
• Data processing and related services

In terms of specific positions, there are also multiple job roles that are on the rise, many of them across sectors. 

Robotics, cloud and full-stack engineers are in demand, as are JavaScript developers. IT departments are looking to add more experts in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. 

Businesses aim to convert more customers with additional customer success specialists and sales development representatives. Data scientists are also in high demand.

For the more service-oriented job seekers, the number of behavioral health technicians is also growing. Plus, unlike most jobs in healthcare, this profession doesn’t require a specific degree.

Set Yourself Up for Success with Capstone Resume Services

Seize the day. No, seize the year. There are countless job openings, but the competition for the right job remains high. 

Position yourself as the capable professional you are with Capstone Resume Services. We can help you craft the perfect resume and job application. That way, you can take advantage of the job opportunities available in 2022.

The first step is to schedule a free consultation. Let’s work together to find the work that you love.

That’s where Capstone can help. After more than eight years in business, we’ve reached a national ranking: #4 out of all the resume writing services on the market. From executive to professional to entry-level, we’re the experts on professional resume, executive biography, and LinkedIn brand development.  

What’s behind our top national ranking? We put the client experience first. When you work with Capstone, you can expect personalized, one-on-one attention from industry experts who know what it takes to get your resume at the top of a recruiter’s list. 

Below, you’ll find out everything that sets us apart from other resume writing companies. 

We Work With You One-On-One 

At Capstone, the client comes first in every step of the process. Before we begin the process of creating a resume, we start with an in-depth phone or video resume writing consultation with the writer drafting your materials. 

The writer’s job is to act as a partner during the writing and revision process — asking all the right questions about your employment history, career goals, and achievements. From beginning to end, we’ll work with you one-on-one to make sure you have a voice in the process. 

We Hire Certified Resume Writers 

While some resume writing services boast low prices and quick turnaround, there’s no guarantee for quality. In fact, many professional resume writers don’t have any industry experience. 

At Capstone, we only hire certified resume writers from diverse professional backgrounds. No matter your goals, our writers are prepared to help you meet them. As certified resume experts with years of experience, they can leverage their in-depth industry knowledge to partner with clients. Our writers have personal experience working with anyone from mid-level professionals to C-level executives, including board members.

We Offer Personalized Assistance 

Unlike other resume service companies, we don’t use a generic template. You can expect personalized and customized attention from each resume writer as they craft your resume. 

Our writers start with a comprehensive understanding of your career goals and employment history to create a more innovative approach to marketing you as the best choice for the job. Each resume and cover letter is tailored to help you reach your unique goals. 

Our consultation service relies on consistent communication from start to finish. Your writer will keep in touch throughout the process to make sure that the goals and messaging are perfectly optimized. This way, your resume has the best chance at opening doors for your career. 

We Include Flexible Revisions in Price 

If you’re not 100% satisfied with every part of your first resume draft, we include flexible options for revisions in the initial price. There’s no additional fee for a second or third draft, so you can be sure that all your goals are met and your requests resolved. Our writers will address any concerns you have, even if it goes beyond one revision. 

We Have a High Success Rate 

Unlike some professional resume writing services, you can be sure that it’s not all just talk with Capstone. We have proven results — with a high success rate for all our clients. 

Our resumes are: 

• Written for every individual client (not template-based)
• Personalized to best capture each client’s unique value 
• Optimized to hit the right industry keywords, including ATS (applicant tracking system)
• Tailored to communicate the right skills for the job description 

Our resume writers take their time to get to know each client, and this care reflects in the quality of our resumes. The success stories speak for themselves, as do the many referrals clients send to friends, family, and colleagues. We take pride in delivering the best service to our clients. 

Why Capstone Resume Writing Services Ranks at #4

With the hundreds of resume writing services out there, why should you choose Capstone? The answer is simple. There might be other resume services out there with similar claims about success rates, turnaround times, and certifications. But we’re one of the few companies built around service first and foremost. We recognize that resume writing isn’t a product that you can sell, so we structured our company to focus on serving the needs of our clients. 

If you work with Capstone, you can expect personalized attention, an in-depth consultation, and a resume that takes your best qualities and frames them in an attractive package for your next job application. Ready to show hiring managers your best? Request a consultation with us today! 

While you can revamp your own resume for your next job search, it’s worth your while to have an expert prepare it for you. A resume is the most critical part of the job search toolkit. It showcases all of your professional strengths and helps you land an interview among dozens — if not hundreds — of top-level applicants. 

But a good resume isn’t easy to write. You need to capture your best attributes in a compelling and condensed way while also appealing to employers whose expectations are changing every day. A resume writing service can help you land the perfect mix of skill-based and culture-based elements they’re looking for in an employee — all in an attractive package. 

Before you put down any money — at a range of anywhere between $100 and $2,000 — you need to make sure you’re investing with the right service. We’re sharing a few facts that will help you assess a potential resume writing service and determine the best value for your money. 

Do They Have Experienced Writers & Staff  

Just like any other industry, experience speaks volumes. The right professional resume writing service will employ experienced writers who have worked in their industry for years. These writers should have a firm grasp of how each industry has changed over the years — and what it takes to succeed in today’s job search climate.

Don’t run if a service features some newer writers, however — those with a few years of experience can still have a firm grasp on what makes and breaks a resume, and will also have the added benefit of being up-to-date on the latest techniques and what to include.

What Value Can They Give? 

Before you commit to any service, you need to know what kind of value they can provide. Take a look at their website to get an understanding of what they promise with each resume. Do they offer a personalized consultation? Do you get a chance to make revision requests? Each resume review should be done according to your unique needs. 

Some services may also offer additional services to polish cover letters or LinkedIn profiles.  

Resume Writer Expertise 

Finding the right service isn’t just about their years of experience. The ideal professional resume writer will have an in-depth understanding of what it takes to build a resume that will not only get past an initial review but will also impress an employer at the highest level. 

Each industry and job will look out for specific skill sets. They may expect to see certain certifications, jargon, or phrases in your application to make sure it’s a good fit. In these cases, employers may use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to sift through applications. These programs will rank applications based on how they use these keywords and even eliminate applications that don’t use the right ones. 

To avoid your resume being dismissed — even if you’re a good fit for the role — a good resume writer will be able to identify the right keywords and make sure they’re included. They can optimize your resume to pass these ATS tests with flying colors. 

Specialized & Niche Resume Writers

While you may not be able to find a resume writer who has worked in your particular industry, the right service will have writers from a wide range of backgrounds. 

A resume writing service company should be able to offer professionals who have worked on resumes in your line of work — and have an intimate understanding of what works in that industry, from language to trends to employer expectations. Someone with experience and specialization can give you the edge that another generic resume writer can’t provide. 

Choosing the Right Resume Writing Service for Job Search Success

Deciding to invest in a professionally written resume can give you an advantage in a competitive job market. But before you offer up your hard-earned money, it’s important to ensure that the resume writing service is giving you the value you deserve. 

The best way to test out a potential resume writing service is to get a consultation. Most of the time they are free, giving you a sense of their expertise and what they can offer for your resume. Ready to invest in your career with a powerful resume? Request a free consultation with our writers today. 

With 756 million members worldwide, Linkedin is the largest networking platform. People use the site to keep in touch with employers, coworkers, associates, and clients — but it can do much more than just keep you up-to-date with what someone’s doing at work. As a professional networking tool, Linkedin can help you unlock new opportunities, foster your professional relationships, and build credibility in your field.

Whether it’s laying the foundation for a successful career or closing a job search, there’s more to networking on Linkedin than just adding contacts. Over the past year, the platform saw a 43% increase in conversations between connections. As more people focus on connecting and engaging with people in their online community, you could be missing out on critical networking opportunities. 

‌So how do you develop relationships on LinkedIn that can boost your career? We’re sharing the best ways you can network on LinkedIn.

Create Strong Professional Connections With LinkedIn 

Websites like LinkedIn can serve as powerful networking tools, providing you with the ability to connect with employers and leave a lasting impression. 

‌Instead of waiting for the next in-person marketing event, LinkedIn allows you to network any time or place from the convenience of your smartphone or laptop. You can connect with people you’d never have the chance to meet before, including the biggest and most influential names in your industry. 

‌This kind of networking can get you concrete results. More and more, hiring managers and employers are turning to LinkedIn to find their next recruit. Three people are hired through LinkedIn every minute. 

‌Just by having a solid presence on this network, LinkedIn allows hiring managers to approach you for a potential opportunity — instead of the other way around. If you’re invited to connect with a hiring manager or recruiter, you want to make sure your profile and professional presence are in top shape. They may come to you with a job opportunity and ask for your resume, so it’s important that you’re on your A-game.

How to Use LinkedIn as a Networking Platform‌

LinkedIn offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with others in your industry — so you should treat LinkedIn like you would any other networking opportunity. This means you need to go in prepared and have an effective strategy in mind. 

‌Here are a few of the top three tips for leveraging the networking opportunities Linkedin can provide: 

Perfect Your LinkedIn Profile 

Everyone has a LinkedIn profile, but not every user takes the time that’s necessary to build it out properly. There are a few things potential employers and connections will see when they come across your profile, and it’s important to have it tailored to your professional goals. The algorithm also boosts profiles that are fully filled out. 

‌Here are a few things you need before your LinkedIn profile is polished and ready to go: 

• Add a high-quality, professional photo of yourself (preferably smiling).
• Add a background or cover image that reflects your industry.
• Mention your industry and location in the headline.
• Include a concise but attention-grabbing summary of who you are and what you have to offer.
• Include a strong resume or CV that backs up your expertise.

Think of Your Personal Brand As Your Professional Brand 

If you’re a working professional or executive leader, you have your own personal brand, that includes your personality, industry, and skills. It’s based on your personality, your identity, and your industry. Even though it’s personal to you, you should still treat it like any professional company’s branding. 

You should approach your career like a professional branding opportunity. Your presence on LinkedIn is a form of social media marketing — but instead of promoting a product, you’re promoting yourself. 

‌In addition to “promoting” yourself, you should focus on offering a consistent brand experience. Your image, personality, and even the way you talk and engage with others should align under your personal branding.

Make Personal Connections 

Once your profile is complete, it’s time to connect. Instead of sending out a flood of invitations, focus on making high-quality, personal connections. A personal touch can go a long way. 

‌When you do connect, take the time to send a personal message instead of the automated one suggested by the platform. Show them you’re thinking about your connections and you’re meaningfully engaged with your network. 

Follow up with connections on a regular basis. This could mean checking in on their job search, celebrating a new promotion, wishing them well, or even just saying happy birthday. 

‌These personal touches will help you strengthen your connections, and help you appear more authentic and trustworthy.

Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile To Network Successfully

‌LinkedIn isn’t just an obligation for professionals and executive leaders. It’s a powerful networking resource that you should use to its full potential. 

‌Once you start making connections, you can build a strong network of professional relationships and take advantage of everything the platform has to offer — including new job opportunities. It might take time and dedication to get there, but the results are well worth the effort. 

‌First impressions are important, and to make the most of these opportunities you’ll want to highlight the value you can bring to a company. However, that isn’t always easy — especially in an oversaturated job-seeking market, but that’s where having your LinkedIn profile built out and your personal brand well-established helps.

Capstone Resume Services can help you showcase the best of what you have to offer with our writing services. No matter your career goals, we can help you get there with a powerful resume. Take a look at our success stories or schedule a one-on-one consultation today. 

Image Credit: Ben Kolde

Did you know, including a hyperlink to your LinkedIn profile, can greatly increase the chance your resume will get noticed by hiring managers? It’s true. Better yet — it’s quick and easy!

‌A job search can feel daunting. Many aspects of the process are out of the job hunter’s control, so it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and a little mystified about what actually happens once you hit the send button. ‌

Don’t worry. While every organization is unique, there are a few things you can count on when your resume lands at its destination (often a very busy hiring manager or assistant’s inbox — sometimes an AI-driven bot):

Your online presence matters (so make sure you have one)
LinkedIn is the preferred professional platform (so make sure you have a great profile there). Hiring managers and their assistants are busy (so make their lives easier by including hyperlinks that take them directly to your online assets)

Why LinkedIn Matters

LinkedIn is one of the most well-trafficked sites on the internet, but the breakdown is staggering. LinkedIn boasts over 720 million users, including 171 million from the US. LinkedIn users include highly educated, highly successful professionals — 50 percent of all online users with a bachelor’s degree or higher have a LinkedIn profile.

‌Those successful professionals include many people who may be directly involved in evaluating your application when you apply for a job. Currently, 63 million LinkedIn members hold decision-making positions.

It’s really no surprise to imagine the numbers involved when you consider how many job listings are posted directly to the site. Recent figures put active job postings on LinkedIn somewhere around the 20 million mark.

Hyperlinks will help you leverage your LinkedIn profile and help hiring managers find out more about what you have to offer.

How to Create and Use LinkedIn Hyperlinks

Once you’ve created a rich, detailed LinkedIn profile, it’s time to share it with the world, or at least with the right hiring managers and talent recruiters. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before you start sharing your link.

Customize your LinkedIn URL

When you create a LinkedIn account, the platform assigns a less-than streamlined URL. You might see your auto-generated hyperlink look something like https://linkedin.com/in/amyjones/193523/Q/356 — that’s not exactly eye-catching.

Take advantage of LinkedIn’s free customization option, which will result in a short, much more visually appealing link. Here’s how:

1. Click your icon at the top of your LinkedIn homepage.
2. Click “View Profile.”
3. Click “Edit Public Profile & URL.”
4. Click the Edit pencil icon (next to your public profile URL).
5. Change the last part of the URL to include your first and last name (you may have to tinker a bit if the URL is already taken)
6. Don’t forget to save.

Where to Use LinkedIn Hyperlinks

Once you’ve created a customized hyperlink and feel confident your profile is in top shape, it’s time to share it. Here are a few places you can use your new hyperlink:

• On your resume (typed out and linked on your digital resume)
• Within your email signature
• In cover letters and messages with recruiters and other hiring professionals
• On your social platform profiles
• On your personal and professional websites
• As part of social media posts
• On networking materials, like physical or digital business cards

‌How to Create a Contact Info Line for your Resume

Be sure to include a concise, easy-to-find contact information line on your resume. Try this style:

City, ST | janedoe@domain.com | 555.555.1212 | LinkedIn‌

To make your digital resume organized, hyperlink your profile to the word “LinkedIn” and avoid typing out the full URL (don’t forget to hyperlink your email address, too). Making your information accessible with a single click is a win-win scenario. Hiring managers won’t have to dig for your information — or worse, give up trying when it becomes too time-consuming. Do yourself and hiring managers a favor by including a clickable link that takes them straight to your LinkedIn profile, where they can learn more about your background, interests, memberships, and achievements.

Bonus Tip: Create and Link to a Professional Portfolio

Your LinkedIn profile is a must-have when it comes to job seeking, but it’s one of many tools you can keep in your arsenal. Take advantage of the many easy-to-use online tools available to create a bright, modern online portfolio and link to it on your resume and social platforms.

‌A portfolio allows you to paint a more in-depth picture of who you are and what you’ve accomplished beyond a list. Sharing testimonials from happy clients and co-workers and showcasing some of your proudest professional moments on your portfolio can give hiring managers the confidence to bring you in for the next step in the application process.

LinkedIn Hyperlinks Make Hiring Managers Smile

Including a LinkedIn URL to your professional resume and other online assets will help to put you in the good graces of hiring managers. Be sure to routinely update your LinkedIn profile when important information changes or when you do something notable.

‌Thanks to your LinkedIn hyperlink, by the time a hiring manager reaches out to you, they should feel like they already have a good handle on who you are and what you have to offer.

Is your resume showcase ready? Capstone Resume Services certified resume writers are here to help! Reach out to learn how to create a gold-standard resume that will get results. Schedule your resume writing consultation today!‌

When it comes to getting hired, first impressions matter.

‌Fortunately, there are several ways to make a positive first impression on your future employer both online and in person. Whether you use your resume, LinkedIn profile, or biography, you should consider these application materials as value propositions — because essentially they are.

A value proposition is a business term that encompasses materials used to market a service or product. Companies use value propositions to persuade prospective clients to choose them based on the value they can bring to the client’s life or business. You can use this strategy in your application materials. Aim to persuade potential employers by demonstrating the value you can bring to their brand.

What Values Should You Highlight?

When you begin your job search, it can be challenging to know what qualities to highlight in your application materials. Editing your resume and LinkedIn profile to list your most up-to-date technical skills and qualities is an ongoing process, but there are some essential skills you can use to improve your resume at any stage:

‌‌Candidate Skills

Once you’ve homed in on the jobs you want, one of the first steps toward demonstrating your worth is including the right hard skills. These are technical abilities you’ve gained through education or experience — such as computer skills, data analysis, or editing.‌

How do you know which hard skills to include? Start by considering the company goals of the organization you’re interested in. Gaining an understanding of the work it does and the ways you can concretely contribute to its goals will put you on the right track when crafting your resume and professional profiles.

‌When listing your hard skills, the goal is to demonstrate why you would provide a skill-based fit for the company. Craft your resume to include your most relevant work experience. Make sure to go into detail about the hard skills you have, how you’ve earned them, and the ways you have amassed a proven track record of using them in a professional setting.

Cultural Skills

While hard skills are certainly valuable, cultural skills can be equally as important during the hiring process. How can you demonstrate to your prospective employer that you will be a great cultural fit for their organization? You can highlight an awesome cultural fit by clearly emphasizing the right soft skills — such as time management, organization, initiative, and leadership.

‌One way to tailor the soft skills on your resume to match the needs of your employer is to clearly display that your employee goals align with the company’s goals. A cultural fit is based on the way you will mesh with other employees, contribute to positive workplace culture, and inspire continued productivity. When your goals and values as an employee align with the goals of your employer, a cultural fit is natural.

Value-Added Statements

To paint an undeniable picture of the benefit you will bring to your prospective employer, it’s important to use value-add statements — also known as value-added statements — to your resume, profile, and bios.

‌In business, value-added statements are documents that outline the positive outcome a product or service can bring to its customers, often monetarily. When crafting your resume and profiles, using a value-added strategy can quickly elevate your application materials. ‌

On your resume, you can incorporate value-added statements in the description of your work experience. For example, rather than simply mention that you’ve improved sales at your previous companies, include specific examples with strong action words. “Boosted sales by 3% over six months” provides a concrete example of the value you bring to a company.

Whenever possible, use specific details to describe your soft skills, too. For example, “managed a team of 20 professionals with collaboration and leadership skills” is more persuasive than simply listing “collaborative” or “strong leadership skills.”

Once you’ve crafted value-added skills for your resume, you can easily weave them into your professional profiles and bio to paint a vivid picture of the worth you will bring to an employer.

How Capstone Resumes Can Help

The way you craft your resume, LinkedIn profile, and professional biography will depend on the industry and type of job you’re vying for. No matter what your professional goals are, it is important to illustrate the concrete ways you can help employers reach their goals.

It can be challenging to identify which of your skills and qualities align most with potential employers. Making these connections can help you land among the top applicants at your ideal company. Fortunately, Capstone Resume Services can help you zero in on your most important strengths and showcase them to prospective employers.

If you’re looking for a job during the COVID-19 era, you’re probably eager for things to get back to “normal,” whatever that may look like. The global crisis has had a massive impact on the job market. Unemployment rates have spiked, some companies have shut down altogether, and many offices have transitioned to a completely virtual setup.

In June 2020, a poll found that approximately 42% of Americans were working remotely, 26% were working in-person, and 33% were not working. Regardless of what comes next, it’s clear there has been a significant shift in the workforce — and workplaces may never look the same.

Even if you feel anxious about employment, you shouldn’t give up hope. While the job market may be uncertain at the moment, new opportunities are emerging every day. Remote jobs, new career paths, and unexpected employment opportunities are out there — you just need to know how to find them.

Here are a few strategies you can use to make the most of your pandemic-era job search and prepare for the future of employment.

Navigating Your Job Search

Finding the right job is a challenge even in the best of times, and a pandemic can make it feel impossible. Searching for employment during these times may require changing your mindset and opening up to new possibilities. We have a few strategies that may help make your job search easier.

Look For New Opportunities

After COVID-19 hit, some industries started drying up. But even if a few opportunities fell through, new ones may have emerged due to the pandemic. Take a moment to consider what kinds of new roles are out there.

This might mean broadening your search and stepping out of your comfort zone. Job seekers are now more likely to transition to another industry than they were before the pandemic. We suggest reflecting on how your skills, experience, and interests could open up new possibilities in different roles — within your industry or even outside of it.

Expand Your Location Preferences

When expanding your job search, don’t forget about location. While the opportunities in your area might be scarce, the rise of remote work and work-from-home positions means that you don’t need to limit yourself to the local market.

Some companies may transition back to in-person work, but many organizations will likely embrace remote work permanently.

Stay Informed

Keep an eye on the news in your industry as the pandemic unfolds. Stay informed by reading news articles and online conversations, along with following leaders in your industry on social platforms like LinkedIn.

How are companies adapting to the pandemic and recession? While some businesses may suffer during COVID, others may be innovating and thriving. Knowing this information can help you find the right opportunity and market yourself as a valuable addition.

How To Prepare For a Virtual Interview

Just as many workplaces have gone completely online, interviews have also transitioned to the digital realm. This creates new challenges that force candidates to acclimate to the less-personal Zoom interview.

On top of technical issues, the lack of face-to-face connection can make it difficult to sell your skills and make a solid first impression. We’ve shared a few tips to help you land the job by phone or video chat.

Make the Right Digital Impression

In a digital interview, you won’t get the chance to make that in-person first impression. This means that your supporting documents need to be perfect. Refresh your resume and cover letter to make them sharp, engaging, and full of the right skills and keywords your potential employer is looking for.

Now that so much has shifted online, your internet presence is also more important than ever. Before the interview even starts, take another look at your LinkedIn and other social media profiles, to ensure your digital self is well-represented.

Improve Your Skills

In a job interview during or post-pandemic, an employer might ask what you’ve been doing during the lockdown. This is your chance to show them how you’ve been building up your skillset, whether this means taking classes, keeping up with industry news, or teaching yourself new skills.

Practice Your Interview Presence

One of the challenges of the virtual interview is that you might appear distanced from the employer. You can’t make eye contact, give them a handshake, or demonstrate the engaged and attentive presence you might normally.

Do your best to present yourself as you would in a normal interview. Practice your questions ahead of time, focus on sitting up straight and pulling your shoulders back, and make eye contact with the camera.

Check Your Connection & Devices

The last thing you want in an interview is a lagging internet connection or a sudden technical malfunction. Make sure your laptop is fully charged and that your Wi-Fi is working properly.

Pick an area free of distractions with a clean and simple background. We suggest dressing professionally from head to toe, even if you’re only visible from waist up.

A few minutes before the interview, pull up your Zoom camera to double-check your posture and make sure you’re centered on the screen.

Moving Forward With Your Search

While things may seem difficult right now, it won’t feel that way for long. With the distribution of the vaccine, more businesses will likely start hiring again, creating more job openings and reviving industries.

Even as things start to improve, some recent shifts might be here to stay, like remote work opportunities. As you move forward in your job search, look toward the future and embrace the new opportunities that are headed your way.

Looking to step up your resume for the next stage of your job search? In an increasingly competitive market, a professional resume service can help you stand out from the crowd. Take a look at Capstone’s services and schedule a consultation to learn more about how we can take your resume to the next level.

LinkedIn is known for constantly evolving, frequently making changes and adding new features. So, it should come as no surprise that the popular professional networking platform has made some changes to its interface and features recently.

At Capstone Resume Services, we believe LinkedIn is a powerful job search tool that can help you enhance your professional brand, broaden your network, and even land that dream job. That’s why it’s so important to stay up-to-date on the latest LinkedIn updates.

To ensure you’re getting the most out of LinkedIn and using it to its fullest potential, we thought we’d take this opportunity to highlight some of the platform’s more notable changes.

LinkedIn Profile Changes

LinkedIn has tweaked a few of its main profile features. Some adjustments may need to be made to your profile to ensure you are still making the best first impression possible. We recommend double-checking the following sections of your profile:

• Profile Picture – The LinkedIn profile picture now shows up as a square and is at the center of your profile, above your headline. Your profile photo is the first impression a recruiter has of you, so we recommend double checking it to ensure the change hasn’t impacted the cropping or overall appearance of the photo.
• Summary – Now, if a user wants to read your entire summary they have to click a “see more” button. Only the first two sentences appear automatically, which means they are more crucial than ever. If they aren’t engaging, chances are users will move on without reading your full summary.
• Skills – The top ten skills you were most endorsed for used to show up on your profile, now LinkedIn has limited it to three. This means it is important ensure the top skills that show on your profile are the most accurate and relevant. If the top three that are currently showing aren’t what you want, you can reorder them, regardless of the number of endorsements.

New LinkedIn Notifications

LinkedIn’s ‘Notifications’ tab brings you updates about your profile activity, connections, and network to help you stay more connected. Recently, the platform added two new types of notifications – The Daily Rundown and Search Appearances.

The Daily Rundown notification brings you a summary of the top news stories of the day to ensure you’re still informed even when you’re too busy to sit down and watch the news.

Search Appearances is one of our favorite new LinkedIn features, as it it allows you to see how many users found your profile through a LinkedIn search each week. It also shows you the top companies your searchers work for and what professions they work in. It also allows you to click on each company and see current job openings, as well as who their hiring managers are. This information is incredibly valuable, as it can help you make adjustments to your profile to ensure you are being found by those you’re hoping to target.

If you’re not quite sure how to go about optimizing your LinkedIn profile for your target audience, check out our tips for getting your LinkedIn profile noticed with keyword optimization!

Customize LinkedIn Notifications

You can now also customize your notifications, allowing you more control over what you see. LinkedIn’s new notification settings allow you to:

• Mute notifications
• Unfollow certain connections whose notifications aren’t relevant to you. (You’ll still be connected on LinkedIn, you just won’t see their updates)
• Turn off certain types of notifications, such as birthdays, published posts, etc.

LinkedIn Video Sharing

It’s no secret that native video is increasingly popular on social media networks. From Instagram Stories to Facebook Live and Twitter Live, all the major platforms have begun taking advantage of the popularity of video sharing. LinkedIn is the latest to join the trend. While LinkedIn currently allows users to embed videos in the summaries and experiences sections of their profiles, Business Insider reports that the platform is currently testing native video sharing.

Currently only a select few users have access to LinkedIn’s video sharing features, but it is expected to be rolled out to all users over the next few months. With this new feature, LinkedIn users will be able to take and upload videos in the LinkedIn app and share them as a status update. This will allow professionals to reach members of their network in a new and exciting way, adding a more personal touch. Users will also have access to video analytics, allowing them to learn more about the types of people who viewed their videos, such as where they work, their job title, etc. This information will be incredibly valuable in helping professionals and job seekers tailor their video updates to their target audience.

Industry experts also predict that live video streaming will be coming to LinkedIn in the near future.

Now that you’re up-to-date on all of LinkedIn’s latest changes, you can get to work updating your profile. If you still need some LinkedIn tips, we’ve written the following blogs to help ensure your LinkedIn profile will stand out to recruiters:

• Attract Recruiters with LinkedIn’s Open Candidates Feature
• How The New LinkedIn App Can Help You Land Your Job Search
• LinkedIn Etiquette
• Launching a Proactive Job Search on LinkedIn
• Use LinkedIn to Maximize Your Job Search

New to LinkedIn and not sure where to start? We can create a professional LinkedIn profile for you! Check out our LinkedIn Profile services for more information, and contact us today to speak with a Certified Professional Resume Writer.

Let’s face it, starting your job search can be daunting. Especially when you’re currently employed. You want to search for a job privately, without alerting your boss or coworkers that you’ve rebooted your job search, but you don’t know how. Well, we have good news!

LinkedIn is making the process much easier with its new “Open Candidates” feature. LinkedIn Open Candidates allows you to turn on a signal that alerts recruiters that you’re open to potential job opportunities. The best part of Open Candidates is the level of discretion. Your LinkedIn connections will have no idea you’ve turned on Open Candidates, and neither will recruiters at your company or affiliated companies. Recruiters are privately notified that you’ve turned on Open Candidates, and when you turn the option on, you get the opportunity to specify the types of position you’re interested in and potential companies you’d like to work for.

To enable Open Candidates, go to the “Preferences” tab within the LinkedIn Jobs homepage and simply click “On.” From there, you can customize it to ensure you get job recommendations that are tailored to you. LinkedIn Open Candidates allows you to specify the cities you’re open to working in, the level of experience you have, the size company that is ideal for you, and the industries you’re pursuing. From there, when recruiters view your profile, they will see it flagged as “open to new opportunities.” According to their website, LinkedIn will also feature your profile in a special section that is exclusively for Open Candidate members.

Before you turn on Open Candidates, it’s important to be sure your profile is up to date. Since the Open Candidate feature makes it easier for recruiters to reach you and for opportunities to knock on your door, it’s important to show yourself in the best light. An outdated profile that doesn’t paint the full picture of your accomplishments and skills is not going to bring in the same opportunities as a fully optimized profile.

As you get your LinkedIn profile ready for the Open Candidates feature, keep these LinkedIn tips in mind:

Keep it professional. LinkedIn is not Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. It’s important to post things that are relevant to your profession, industry, etc. Avoid mentioning anything related to political, religious, or personal beliefs. Treat it the same way you’d treat a cover letter, resume or job interview. If you wouldn’t say it to a potential employer, it’s best to keep it off LinkedIn.

Keep it updated. Before you turn on LinkedIn Open Candidates, take some time to review your profile with a critical eye and ask yourself a few questions. Is it updated with your current position, company, and the amount of time you’ve worked there? Are your relevant skills complete and current? Is your experience updated with what you’ve learned and accomplished in your current position? If you answered no to any of these questions, it’s important to set aside some time to update your profile and make sure it’s relevant for the types of positions you’re currently interested in.

Skills are important. According to LinkedIn, those that have 5 or more skills listed on their profile get 17 times more profile views than those with little to no skills. That being said, it’s important to think about the skills you’ve gained as you’ve progressed through your career and be sure they’re all included in your LinkedIn profile. If a skill is listed on your resume, it should be on your LinkedIn profile as well.

Go beyond your resume. LinkedIn is the perfect way to include everything you wish you could mention on your resume, but don’t have space for. It allows you to go into more detail, providing context and evidence to support the claims you make in your resume. You can also include examples of your work, certifications you may have, courses you’ve taken, and organizations you’re involved with, such as nonprofits or professional networking groups. LinkedIn allows you to paint a full picture of who you are and what you achieved, so it’s important that your profile is complete and detailed.

Keywords are ‘key.’ Recruiters on LinkedIn use keywords to search for applicants and find qualified candidates. Determine the keywords for your industry, including core competencies, skills, industry terms, etc, and be sure those keywords are included in your profile. This will make your profile more effective and ensure you’re found by both recruiters and automated search tools.

Learn New Skills with LinkedIn Learning

If you’re interested in a new role or are looking to move up in your career, LinkedIn also has a new LinkedIn Learning platform that makes it easier to learn the skills that are most important to your industry and/or profession. LinkedIn Learning suggests online courses that are recommended for you based off of your profile, and also highlights courses that are trending for those within your field. For example, if you’re a marketing manager, LinkedIn will show you a selection of the courses that are currently trending for Marketing Specialists, such as “Writing a Marketing Plan,” “Lead Generation Fundamentals,” and “Top 10 Marketing Challenges.” It will also show you courses trending in your industry, as well as the courses that are trending on LinkedIn Learning in general. Courses vary in length and the amount of time and commitment they take, but are provided by industry experts to help you learn new skills while enhancing your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is currently offering a free month trial for all LinkedIn members. To learn more about LinkedIn Learning, visit the LinkedIn Learning section of the job search platform.

If you’re interested in using LinkedIn’s Open Candidate feature but aren’t sure your LinkedIn profile is as effective as it could be, check out some of the past blogs we’ve written on the subject:

• Use LinkedIn to Maximize Your Job Search
• Launching a Proactive Job Search on LinkedIn
• LinkedIn Etiquette
• How the New LinkedIn Job App Can Help You Land Your Next Job
• Get Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile Noticed with Keyword Optimization

If you don’t currently have a LinkedIn profile or are struggling to update your existing one, Capstone Resume Services can help! We offer LinkedIn profile creation, and our Certified Professional Resume Writers will work with you to create an optimized profile that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements.

To jumpstart your job search and take the next step in your career, contact Capstone Resume Services today, or request a personal resume consultation.