MPW Insider is an online community where the biggest names in business and beyond answer timely career and leadership questions. Today’s answer for: What are three things you look for in a resume? is written by Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO of Ruder Finn.
Whenever I’m looking to fill a position, I know I will see many resumes from qualified candidates, which is why it’s so crucial to read further into a candidates career achievements—what do they suggest that isn’t written? Choosing someone to join the team can be difficult, and often it’s hard to tell from the resume who is most qualified. So, when evaluating candidates, there are three things that I always look for that create depth in a resume:
First, has the candidate done something different or out of the box in their career? In today’s world, following the standard rules of the game is not necessarily the winning formula. Will the candidate be able to look at a problem with a new lens, or implement an unorthodox approach that adds a unique perspective? I seek team members that will bring a new point of view and vantage point to the table, someone that will further enrich the creativity of our organization, and challenge us all to think differently. Does the candidate bring experiences that will create exponential power for the entire team?
Second, does this person have potential? A great leader and role model of mine once said to me that there is an incredible difference between experience and potential, and the fire-in-the-belly passion is extremely important when sourcing candidates. Besides qualifications, it is critical to find an individual who has continuously pushed their abilities, taken on stretch assignments, and made the most out of every role they’ve fulfilled.
Lastly, what is the candidate looking for in their next position? Is the role we are seeking to fill, one that the candidate will be passionate about? Will this role help fulfill his or her aspirations, and be meaningful? When an individual’s passion is linked to their role, great things happen.
Read all answers to the MPW Insider question: What are three things you look for in a resume?
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