By Tracy M. Parish, C.P.R.W. (Certified Professional Resume Writer)

Recently we were bombarded with phone calls from the local area. An advertisement for openings at a large local corporation was asking applicants to submit a scannable copy of their resume, and people were wanting to know if we provided this service. Good news - we do.

Let me warn you, though, that a scannable resume is not the prettiest thing you have ever seen. As a matter of fact, resume writers really don't like the look of the scannable style; it is extremely plain. It ruins all of the hard work we put into making a professional and impressionable looking format! However, the computer can't read all of the fancy fonts, bold print, line justifications and special character bullets that make the resume stand out. If a professionally prepared resume is scanned into the computer the result looks like garbage which means the beautiful resume you put so much effort into becomes totally useless to the company and is thrown away. Since more and more companies these days are either turning to scanning methods or will be in the near future, it is a good idea to be prepared.

There are many advantages for companies in using scannable resumes to screen hundreds or thousands of applicants, and to be able to use electronic transfer capabilities. Resumes are simply scanned, reviewed, and often searched for key words relating to a particular position. It is quite common for companies to search the data base for acceptable candidates that include key industry words such as TQM, QC, JIT, programming languages, and computer software. This is also one more reason to make sure your resume is professionally prepared and regularly updated to include the latest cutting edge terminology related to your industry.

Chances are that if you don't include a scannable copy your resume will be of no use to the company. In order to keep up with the technology used by these companies, it is important to have a properly prepared scannable resume as a tool to market yourself. Today it is best to present your professional resume along with a scannable format to prevent you from being screened out.

CareerPlan offers both scannable and electronic versions of your resume and materials so you can do electronic transfers, email file attachments, and submit a readable / scannable version.

CAREER PLANNING TIP:
Be prepared! Keep an updated copy of your resume on file at all times. Don't risk losing out on your dream job because you turned in an old copy or missed the deadline!