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VOLUME 1, ISSUE 30
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FREE RESUME CRITIQUE
If you're going on lots of interviews you shouldn't change a thing. However, if you're not getting as many interviews as you'd like, you may want to re-examine your resume.
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TOP TIPS
Understand that questions will be asked. Think about your responses in advance so you are not blind-sided by the issue.
Be honest about your involvement. The company may have failed for any number of reasons. Describe your role in the organization and what you did to achieve your stated objectives.
Articulate what you learned from the experience, and what insight you’ll take with you into the next opportunity.
Do not avoid the issue. Avoidance is a red flag, and may take you out of the running for the position, regardless of the issue in question.
Recognize that not all negative references will end your candidacy. In some cases, they may provide the basis for discussion in an interview. You can get the upper hand by telling the recruiter about the situation before a reference does.
Special thanks to Ken Plasz, Jr. and Steven LaKind of Taylor/Haley Search Partners, LLC for their contribution to this article.
Addressing “Blemishes”
Recruiters and employers allow for a “blemish” on your resume from a failed business venture. In today’s business environment, most people have one. Yet companies want executives who demonstrate ethical and transparent conduct. How do you remain honest while building your attractiveness as a job candidate? Here are some suggestions for addressing issues that may raise eyebrows on your resume:
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DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE
In an uncertain economy, it is especially important for executives to evaluate prospective employers thoroughly. Companies are pursuing extensive due diligence to evaluate any hiring or investment opportunity before committing. You should be doing the same.
Here are some areas to assess an employer before you commit:
Management Team
“As a finalist candidate for the most senior positions, it is not unreasonable to ask for references of the people you’ll be working with,” says Ken Plasz, Jr., principal of the boutique executive search firm Taylor/Haley Search Partners, LLC (Boston, MA). “For all other positions, back-channel reference checks -- using online resources, alumni, or business and network connections -- are appropriate.”
Backers
This is the most critical area to look at. Products and services will change over time, but how the management team handles a down economy, competitive pressures, and maintaining positive cash flow are all critical indicators of the company’s success.
There are several ways to gather information on these issues. As a first step, visit the section of the company’s web site for the management team and board of advisors. Use online resources to tap into publicly available information from sites such as Yahoo! People Search or US Search. Then, use your network to find people who worked for those companies.
In start-up companies, financial backing is essential for fueling growth and ongoing operations. VCs operate differently, some taking a more active role than others in how the business is managed. These questions can reveal the company’s real power structure and financial health.
Product/Service
A company’s product or service will change over time. Important aspects to investigate include whether there is a standard methodology for product development and how thoroughly the company assesses a market as a source of profitable clients before rolling out a product. Here are some questions to research:
“Due diligence should cut both ways. When both company and candidate engage fully in the due diligence process, the potential for a positive outcome increases dramatically”, says Steven LaKind, principal with Taylor/Haley. “A company worthy of your candidacy should not be threatened by your interest and thoroughness.”
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