[ale] Anyone looking for a new gig?

[Ryan Gemmill]

>On Wed, 2008-10-01 at 16:48 -0400, George L. Allen wrote:
> > (My $0.02 'technical repremand:) Last time I was job hunting - I would have
> > loved to have found one recruiter/employer/someone who would bother to read
> > a PDF/ASCII/html/XML/LaTeX resume instead of demanding one in MS Word
> > format.
> > 
> 
> Several years ago I hit the same frustrating wall. A recruiter was
> wanting a format I didn't have (duh - msword) so he could remove my
> identification header to prevent the company from doing an end-run
> around him. It had never occurred to him to take my PDF, print it, cover
> the header with his banner and _then_ fax it over. I have found that
> most recruiters require MSword because they will edit it for the same
> reason. 
> 

George: I'll read whatever kind of resume you want to send me. But, if you want me to send it to a client, msword is a necessary evil. (.txt and .rtf are fine too, actually). 

I actually wasn't going to respond again, but this seems up my alley. And as much as I hate to admit it, Jim is absolutely right. So, here's a few reasons why you see recruiters stick to word files:

  A) Removing and replacing contact info is recruiter 101. While the threat of getting cut out is ever-present, any recruiter that can't trust their client is wasting their time as it is and should find a new one. The truth is that hiring manager-to-candidate communication is rarely beneficial. I'm yet to meet a candidate who appreciates getting ambushed on their cell phone by an inquirious hiring manager. I've also witnessed candidates talk managers out of making an offer simply through over-persistent, ill-timed communication. Part of my job is to ensure a level playing field for any pre-first-day communication. Last but not least, there's info we need to add, like a position ID# or tile... sometimes even a resume # etc. 

  B) Applicant Tracking Systems. If you're applying to a large firm - or working with a large recruiter - they're undoubtedly using some kind of ATS. This will read your .doc file and extract important info, even possibly identify resumes that use a specific term etc. Not to say that a pdf or html won't get noticed, but it's a great way to fall through the cracks. 

  C) Professionalism. I see LOTS of gorgeous PDF/HTML/XML resumes, but the fact is that once I've seen them, and identified you as a candidate I'd like to present to my client, the need for the graphics and color is gone. You've been noticed... you've stood out. Now is the time to put the proverbial suit on and get the job. 

But Jim... Fax it over? That's another good way to get thrown out with the faxed ads for office supplies and timeshare vacation properties. At least a digital format is quickly shareable and searchable. 

All that said... any recruiter who doesn't understand why a Linux enthusiast doesn't have MSword just boggles my mind as well, but maybe now there's an appreciation for where the he's coming from. Next time tell him to break out the copy and paste action and make it happen!

Okok. Longest post of the modern era, sorry. This has been Ryan.