Approaching and Addressing Long Job Descriptions

Many of my clients apply for roles where the position description is 5, 6, 7, even 10 pages long. 😮 (cough, #nonprofits) How do we respond to these? What changes do we make to the résumé? Here's how I approach long job descriptions >>>>>>>


1. ---> Give up believing that you can address every requirement. It's impossible.

2. ---> Pay close attention to what is listed first (in both the initial paragraphs and bulleted list of requirements). How do you meet those requirements? How have you answered similar needs before?

3. ---> Ask yourself where your unique expertise fits in. What jumps out at you from the description? Why are you a great fit? How will your expertise help them meet their goals?

4. ---> Use their language. For keywords and key phrases. Show them you have read the job description (yes) and are on board.

5. ---> Speak to the mission and the next hurdles. Research is critical here. What are they facing as an organization? Is it in the job description? If not, find out. How would you address their impending needs?

6. ---> Show how you lead. Above all, you need to clearly and concisely define and communicate how you lead.

It's impossible to answer every job description requirement, especially for long descriptions. Focus on your strengths, identify where they match the organization's needs, and be sure to communicate your strengths, value, and the impact you bring.

#jobsearch #resumewriter #careers