Word of advice for the day... OK, you've seen our job description posted somewhere. As you read it you say to yourself "Done that... yep, done that too... well, kinda did that but could learn it..." Why waste all of that good mental energy? Normally, you'll go through that process and when your done, you'll blast off a dry generic resume through the wonders of the net. And then you wait...

I would suggest that you take these thoughts and get them down in a small chart for me. At the top of your resume, make a table. On the left put what we're looking for. On the right put what you've done that makes you a match. Keep going through the job description and go through this analysis for each major requirement. Be sure to put in the essential "third dimension" in your responses (how many servers, how many people on your team, for how long, when, etc.). Keep the response sections short and concise but with enough information so I'll really see the fit.

I would suggest putting this on the top of your resume so we can't miss it. I know it's against all rules of resume writing but heck, unique times require unique solutions. This also keeps your "My fit" chart from getting separated from your resume. This can happen when a recruiter forwards the resume and just leaves out a cover letter or separate document (often, just the resume is passed on). Also, documents in addition to a resume can be ignored by text parsing engines and even the recruiter doesn't really see the effort you took to point out how perfect a match you are. Keep it short, and to the point, and right at the top of the resume. I personally think that it shows that you took the time and brain power to prove that you're a good match. ;)

Response to my previous posting on the baylisa mail list. NOTE: Company name change to protect the innocent ;)

I was laid off at XXX in December 2000. There were a couple of people who had relocated to work at XXX and had been there 2 weeks when they got laid off.

It cuts both ways. Employers really don't give a f@#% about us. All they care about is getting the job done for as little as possible. It's all a "business decision". Nobody should be surprised when we, as individuals, make a "business decision". It should never be personal...

I think his anger is understandable. My response is as follows:

Agreed. I don't disagree with you at all. The lack of any common trust between and employer and employee is, I think, hurting the whole workforce. I do have to agree that it was the employers in the early '90's who started this with massive lay-offs to meet a bottom line. Unfortunately, the years of doing a good job, keeping the job, and retiring with the gold watch appear to be mostly over.

Regardless, it does make this hard for both sides when everything basically becomes a "business decision." Both sides are forced to simply feel things out and play the odds. I HATE playing games but feel like everything has turned into one.

Good point.