Can Executives Get By Without a Resume?

Howard Nestler over on Blue Steps thinks so.

Nestler makes the point that when executives default to using a resume as a means of promoting, they have given up all the advantages that their skill, intellect and experience have provided them. “They become part of the crowd,” Nestler asserts. “Imagine a political candidate running for office by merely circulating a resume.”

“An executive must begin to see himself or herself as a product with discernable qualities and characteristics that set them apart from the many options a company has in today’s job market.” Nestler goes on to say that, “Executives must then headline their campaign with these qualities, which is something a resume does not do.”

I could not disagree more! Most resumes don't do that, it is true. But the good ones do. To suggest that senior executives can somehow do away with a resume is a complete myth and could only be suggested by someone who fundamentally doesn't understand the hiring process at most organizations.

Try telling the headhunter who calls you about a great CEO opportunity that you don't have a resume because you are above all that. The headhunter's response would likely be "well write one and send it over to me ASAP." And when a company expresses interest in you after your networking efforts paid off, how do you think they'll respond to being told "sorry, I don't use a resume."

Perhaps what Nestler means to say is that the average resume isn't effective.There I would agree with him and I've written extensively on the subject. No matter what level (entry or executive) your resume must communicate your unique story. It must show why you are the perfect person to help your target company to meet its goals. It must help you to stand out, showing why you are uniquely qualified for the role. All this takes time and effort, but its well worth the work.

For more on how to write a game-changing resume, feel free to download my free report: The 3 Inside Secrets that Will Transform your Resume. Or buy a book. Or study samples online. Just don't follow Howard's advice and try to dispense with a resume altogether

Comments

[Totally Consumed]

Nicely said Louise, a resume is an essential tool; one of many tools perhaps, but essential nonetheless.

[Career Networking]

Can Executives Get By Without a Resume? as the title starts with the question its a very useful article

[QuestingElf]

Personally, I would love to see the demise of resumes. All they really say is what you have done, they don't say what you can do.

Yet does this mean that I therefore want the destruction of all CPRW's and others who make their living writing resumes? Not at all. If anything, I've been very uplifted by other elements I've found on Louise Fletcher's sites and writings, especially the portfolios. I really feel all that's necessary is the transition from PAST to PRESENT/FUTURE. That's all.

It's what I do in my interviews, as employer or candidate. Are you going to hire me to repeat the work I've been doing for 5 years? Or are you going to hire me to do what you need done now?

Instead of preparing resumes, create documents in any media you like (paper or Web-based) that show what I can do.