Exposing the Art of Resume Review for Hiring Managers: A Conversation With an Ascendo Expert Recruiter

In the dynamic world of recruitment, the resume serves as the initial introduction between a candidate and a potential employer. Its role in securing a position cannot be overstated. However, what happens when a seasoned executive recruiter steps into the conversation? In a recent interview with Vivian Rubio, an expert from Ascendo Resources, she sheds light on the details of resume assessment and provides valuable insights for hiring managers navigating the world of talent acquisition. Check out the video here.

"Are you a hiring manager? Let's talk about reviewing a resume." Rubio invites us into the nuanced world of examining resumes, emphasizing the importance of a well-crafted resume in the hiring process. Ascendo specializes in helping companies find exceptional talent. To learn more about working with Ascendo, explore some of our FAQs. Vivian brings a new perspective on what to look out for on a resume.

Simple can be good: "At first glance, this is a fantastic resume. It is very, very simple," Rubio commends the simplicity of the resume, acknowledging its initial appeal. However, as the conversation unfolds, she delves into the layers behind its simplicity.

Rubio highlights the significance of certifications, especially in roles where specific certifications are required. This endorsement serves as a reminder for candidates to present their qualifications as easy to read as possible. Hiring managers should pay close attention to these certifications; there might even be some skills that were not a requirement but help show this potential employee as a standout candidate. "I love the inclusion of the certification, especially for certain roles that do require those specific certifications," notes Rubio.

When reviewing a candidate's certifications, hiring managers should consider these factors to ensure an accurate assessment:

1. Assess whether the certifications align with the requirements of the position.
2. Look for certifications that directly contribute to the candidate's ability to excel in the role.
3. Verify that the certifications are current and up to date. Some certifications may expire, and it's crucial to ensure that the candidate's knowledge is based on the latest industry standards.
4. Look for candidates who show a commitment to continuous learning. Certifications earned through ongoing professional development programs demonstrate a proactive approach to staying current in the field.

The Missing Metrics: Rubio addresses a common pitfall in resumes – the absence of quantifiable achievements. She poses a crucial question, "What are the qualifiable or quantifiable achievements?" Rubio emphasizes the necessity of incorporating measurable accomplishments to maximize the impact of a resume.

"For a hiring manager, those are the questions that I would have ready to ask for an interview," Rubio remarks, underlining the important role of achievements in shaping interview discussions. The absence of numerical representation, particularly in roles like sales, leaves hiring managers wanting a clearer picture.

"If you're going for a sales job, you want to add the numbers that you were able to create in dollars, or numbers in employees you were managing or the numbers of invoices you were processing," Rubio suggests. This invaluable advice transcends industries, emphasizing the universal appeal of quantifiable results in showcasing a candidate's contributions.

When reviewing a candidate's metrics, focus on relevance. By that, we mean prioritize metrics that are directly relevant to the specific job you’re hiring for or the industry you’re in. Look for indicators that align with the key responsibilities and goals of the position. We know you're juggling a million things so learning to scan for these relevant metrics will save you so much time!

A Better Understanding: Rubio states that incorporating numerical achievements aids hiring managers in comprehending a candidate's past endeavors. "That would help the hiring manager have a better understanding. Or it would help us, as hiring managers, to have a better understanding of exactly what you've done in the past," Rubio states.

By embracing quantifiable achievements, candidates give hiring managers tangible evidence of their capabilities. Hiring managers should be on the lookout for clear statements like “Consistently exceeded quarterly sales targets by an average of 20%, demonstrating a proven track record of surpassing assigned quotas and driving revenue growth for the company.” These quantifiable achievements show the potential performance the candidate will have at your organization. These metrics are great to keep in mind if the candidate moves on to the interview stage. You can use these metrics as a starting point for deeper discussions and as an opportunity to ask probing questions.

Remember, context matters! Consider metrics by also thinking about the scope of the candidate's responsibilities and the size of the organization. A candidate who managed a team of five may have different metrics compared to someone overseeing a larger department. Don’t forget to assess whether the candidate's metrics align with the specific requirements of the job. Look for evidence that the candidate has experience and success in areas crucial to the open position. Here is a great Ascendo insider tip to remember. Look for a diverse range of metrics that cover various aspects of the candidate’s performance, such as sales numbers, project completion rates, or efficiency improvements. A well-rounded set of metrics indicates a candidate's versatility.

In the intricate dance of recruitment, the executive recruiter serves as a guide, decoding the nuances of resumes for hiring managers. Vivian Rubio, through her expertise at Ascendo, provides a roadmap for candidates looking to make a lasting mark. If you are curious about the pros and cons of using a recruiter, check out this article here.

As hiring managers, the obligation is on us to delve beyond the surface simplicity of a resume. Rubio's insights prompt us to ask the right questions, seek quantifiable achievements, and truly understand the narrative a resume conveys. In the ever-evolving realm of talent acquisition, conversations with seasoned recruiters like Rubio become invaluable guides, steering us toward the brightest talent. The insights shared by Ascendo Resources Executive Recruiter Vivian shed light on the skill behind the hiring process.

Hiring? If you find yourself in need of assistance to streamline your recruitment efforts tailored to your organization's needs, click here to explore how Ascendo can be your strategic partner in building a dynamic and high-performing team. Elevate your hiring journey with us!

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