Resumes generally don’t reveal much about the real “you”. Yes, it’s an historical snap shot of your work life.. but what does it say about your unique personality? What do you want it to “say” about you?
Want to stand out? Want your resume to get you to an interview? Then a simple ELEVATOR speech or an “About me” statement is a great way to differentiate your resume from the rest!
Definition: An elevator spiel in job searching includes a 15-30 second overview of an individual’s knowledge, skills, and accomplishments. The term comes from the time it takes to complete a normal elevator ride from the top to the bottom floor. An “elevator speech” is an opportunity to sell you!
So it’s basically a spoken commercial that explains to people who you are, what you do and what kind of position you’re seeking. Most people don’t understand, though, that an elevator pitch should also be a crucial part of your resume.
Need help?
Then answer these questions in a “real” voice. Like you’re speaking to your mother, or a couple of friends (I even recommend that you speak into a voice recorder, or just go ahead and call your own voicemail, and answer these questions out loud. That’s the best way to get a conversational tone….)
- Why do you want to work in Retail/ Hospitality or Tourism?
- What is it that you find interesting about it?
- No, seriously, don’t talk to me like I’m your boss, what do you really find interesting about it?
- Why do you want to stay in this field?
- What do you like about this industry?
- When you’re in the shower in the morning, what types of challenges at work make you excited to get to work as soon as possible?
- When are you having the most fun?
It’s like establishing your very own personal brand allowing you to differentiate and position yourself from the competition and claim your job!
Here are some examples to help you get going!
A Marketing role
The Pitch: “I like to shine from behind the scenes. I am an office support professional with experience managing Marketing Programs and Initiatives for the manufactured consumer products industry. Being the people person that I am, I enjoy being hands-on in getting to know what the customer wants/needs and then working within company guidelines to make it happen. I’d be thrilled to share more about my background.”
A Sales Role
The Pitch: “A sales professional with solid track record of winning new and repeat business. I’d like to continue that success for a company that wants to generate more business. My background shows that I have exceeded sales targets and helped boost market share. I’m technological proficiency, particularly in web research. Being a great listener, helps me understand and address client needs. I’ve been fascinated by the sales process and am driven by the impact I can have on a company’s growth”.
A Barista
The Pitch: “Being a Barista is not just a job! I love serving customers and can operate various commercial coffee machines. I have speed and physical agility; I possess initiative and can think quickly on my feet. I’m creative and enjoy making each cup a work of art; I can distinguish qualities of a coffee such as body, astringency, bitterness, fruitiness, acidity, chew, under extracted, over extracted, and the texture of the milk, and last but not least – I love working under pressure!”
A Reception or front line role
The Pitch: “I like being the public face for a hotel. As the first person a customer sees or the first voice they hear, I know how important it is that I consistently act in a professional manner providing the customers with a great first, and lasting impression. I am also a great typist, and pride myself on my accuracy and administration skills. As well as this, I’m told that my smile is contagious!”
General Hospitality and Retail customer service roles
The Pitch: “I deliver a high level of customer service and I understand the importance of presentation and great communication skills. I like to be efficient and to provide t timely service. I adopt a very flexible approach to working various shifts, and can work a variety of hours. I enjoy engaging with Guests and customers and building repeat business”.
Explaining why you for the role?
The Pitch: “Currently I am seeking work for my gap year. I am keen on a role within………..?because….. …?
I am a personable, naturally curious person who is keen to further develop my communication and work skills. I know I will be working when others are partying, however, I enjoy helping others have a great event. I am available for any shifts and for week-ends”.
NOTE- 25 – 50 words IS ENOUGH… but make sure you do make it 100% about you! NO lies; no made-up stories! Still stumped? Try this free career Quiz… the results may help you describe your self in more individual terms!
http://www.carecareers.com.au/page/career-quiz Ivana Agapiou resume writer and career advisor
Good luck!