Resumes for Blue Collar Workers - Are they Needed?
While a resume (with a great cover letter) isn’t necessarily needed for blue collar workers, you may want to include one. This can show that you are responsible, organized, and that you are really driven to get a job. Even if your resume is short, it can show your potential, your skills, and work experience. It can also be a way to offer information about various references you have.
A resume shows the employer that you are well rounded, and that you have potential. They also see that you go the extra mile. What employer out there isn’t going to be happy with someone that goes above and beyond what is required? They are also looking for employees with great communication skills. This cuts down on in house problems and conflicts. With a resume, you show them that you are able to communicate on the level that they want.
With the economy being what it is today, more people are looking at blue collar jobs than ever before. Many people have the attitude that they will do anything, and they apply for all jobs out there that they possibly can. This means that the amount of competition you have is going to be significantly higher than it was before. In fact, employers have the upper hand right now because they do have such a large pool of applicants for any job openings.
When you turn in a job application for a blue collar job, you don’t want to just blend in. Offering a nicely laid out resume on quality paper with your application is going to get you noticed. Your resume needs to be written specifically with the objectives of that position in mind. Make sure you use bullets to identify the skills you have that are consistent with what the job description says they are looking for.
A resume is a great way to sell yourself for any blue collar job. While you won’t see job listings that require it, get into the habit of providing them. It can significantly increase your chances of getting hired. The eyes of those looking over applications are going to see that there is something that few other applicants have offered. As a result, it could get your application on the top of the list of people that they will be calling to schedule an interview.
Images: By Rennett Stowe and beckstei