As a writer, editor, web designer, forum maven, etc. [boy, I sound multi-talented!] I try to give my clients a/k/a customers a little something extra whenever or wherever possible. No, not so that they take advantage of my kindness, rather to show that I go the extra mile for them. Hey, it is a competitive market out there and I don’t want to grow complacent!
So, exactly what am I talking about? Blogs. That’s right, I enjoy blogging so much that I have decided to include a “blog option” as part of my web package for clients [new and existing] who want one during 2006. It doesn’t cost me any money for the software, but it will cost me approximately one hour’s time to set up each blog.
How about you? Are you expanding your offerings or are you standing in place? Is there something extra/special which you can offer to your clients at no cost to them?
If you are thinking of short term gains then you are missing my point. Invest in your clients and they will return the favor to you in the form of loyalty and increased exposure: happy clients tell other clients of their good fortune, which is you and what you offer to them — top notch service!
Do you feel as if you are in a R.U.T.? No, I don’t mean that you are stuck in a ditch somewhere, rather is it Resume Updating Time?
If you haven’t updated your resume once over the past year, now is a good time to take a fresh look at your copy. Beginning with the header, is all of your information correct? How many times have I seen an old cell number or former email address listed? Plenty! You want someone to contact you, don’t you? Make sure your contact information is up to date.
How about your objective? Has your job objective changed? If not, does the verbiage still hold true? Perhaps it needs to freshened a bit.
Employment history — I am thinking that even if you did not have a promotion during the past year, some of your work tasks may have changed. If so, sparkle up your resume and put your best foot forward. Also, remove jobs that you haven’t held in two decades! Most experts recommend that you show work history for the last ten years only. Remember: the job application asks for much more detailed information. Don’t list everything/anything on your resume.
How about training or schooling? Are there any classes you took that you can now list? A degree secured? If so, you definitely want to include your accomplishments front and center.
References: Never, never list your references on your resume. Instead, “references furnished upon request” is all that you need to state.
Once you have updated your resume, pass it on to a highly objective friend or hiring professional who can critique it accordingly. Implement their recommendations and go with the new copy.
Even if you aren’t planning to switch companies in 2006, a forced exit or even an internal promotion can mandate that a resume be furnished immediately. Why wait for an emergency; update your resume now while it is still on your mind.
General | Matthew C. Keegan, 30 Dec 05 | 
Comments Off 