Advantages of Web Resumes

Because Web resumes are based on HTML (the same coding system used to create Web pages) they offer a unique combination of benefits you won't find in other resume formats or mediums:

Control / Confidentiality

Submitting an ASCII resume to an online database may get you in front of thousands of employers, but it can also get you in hot water with your current boss. Unfortunately, if you post your resume in a public database, you lose control over who sees it, who downloads it, and who snatches it up and posts it somewhere else. In contrast, HTML resumes can be set up in private databases – viewable only by those who have the URL (Web address).


Universal Compatibility

Since HTML resumes are basically Web pages, they can be viewed by anyone with Internet access, no matter what kind of software or operating system they use. In other words, there's no need to worry about file conversion problems, formatting glitches, or the ubiquitous computer virus.


Attractive Appearance

HTML formatting provides a vast array of color and layout options. When used correctly, these design features dramatically improve resume appearance and project an image that reinforces your candidacy. With HTML, you can create virtually any style – whether conservative, distinctively professional, or cutting edge. If your profession is image-oriented, high-tech, or creative, this feature alone makes the Web resume a worthwhile investment.


3-D Capabilities

Like all Web documents, HTML resumes can be hyperlinked to other HTML pages. The World Wide Web provides a perfect environment to build an online portfolio with links to creative samples, letters of recommendation, graphs, charts, photos, and so on. The ability to expand the resume beyond the immediate page – providing immediate access to examples and supporting documents – is unique benefit that can't be duplicated in other mediums. What's more, printing and production costs for traditional portfolios can be expensively prohibitive, but there are no printing costs when you "strut your stuff" on the 'Net.


Full-time Accessibility

Unlike the paper resume, HTML resumes "reside" online and they work full-time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You don't mail them, attach them, fax them, or e-mail them to anyone. This not only saves money on printing and postage, but it ensures that your resume is continually available to potential employers, recruiters, and networking contacts – even when your computer is down or you're out of town.


Image-Enhancing

HTML resumes not only look better, but they reinforce your image as a cutting-edge candidate. If confidentiality is not an issue for you, capitalize on the prestige of having a Web resume. Make a "high tech" impression by including the URL in your traditional resumes, ASCII resume, job search correspondence, e-mail signature line, personal business cards, and so on.

In short, the Web resume's 24/7 accessibility, image-building capabilities, and low-profile Internet presence make them an ideal career-marketing tool for many job seekers. If you need to project a high-end image – and you want maintain your privacy or make sure your boss doesn't find your resume online – then consider the advantages of a Web resume.

 


Site development and content by
Pat Kendall and Susan Britton Whitcomb
©2001, All Rights Reserved
ResumeIQ@aol.com
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Technical Terms


ASCII Resume (aka plain text or e-mail resume)
ASCII resumes are "plain text" resumes, devoid of formatting enhancements such as bolding, italics, and underlining. They are left justified with all elements stacked on the left side. Sample ASCII resume | Back



File Conversion Problems
Conversion problems occur when someone tries to open a file that is not "compatible" with their own programs or system. In some cases, the files will open successfully, but may contain only computer code and symbols. In other cases, the text appears but the bullets may "wacky." Back


Computer Viruses
Because Macro viruses are commonly "passed" through the transfer of Microsoft Word documents, some employers and recruiters refuse to accept them. ASCII and HTML files do not carry Macro viruses. Back


Hyperlinks (aka links)
Hyperlinks are the "connectors" between individual Web pages online. Some take you from one Web site to another, while others connect you to another spot on the page. Without hyperlinks, there would be no World Wide Web. Back

HTML (Acronym for Hypertext Markup Language)
HTML is a coding system (done by hand or via HTML editing tools). HTML formatting can produce many attractive typographical and design effects with full color capabilities. Here's an example of HTML-coded text:
<b><i>This text is coded to appear on screen as bolded and italicized.</b></i>
This is how the HTML-coded text appears in a Web browser:

This text is coded to appear on screen as bolded and italicized.



Hyperlinks (aka links)
Hyperlinks are the "connectors" between individual Web pages online. Some take you from one Web site to another, while others connect you to another spot on the page. Without hyperlinks, there would be no World Wide Web. Return to article



Online Portfolios (aka Web portfolios)
Online portfolios are much like traditional portfolios, in that they provide detailed information, work examples, and supplemental or supporting information. Some Web-based portfolios are "expanded" resumes. A Web portfolio can include links to projects, graphs, charts, artwork, design examples, other Web sites, photographs of projects/products, etc. Online portfolio sample | Return to article



URL (acronym for Universal Resource Locator)
URLs are basically Web site addresses. The URL for this site is www.eResumeIQ.com. A Web resume might have a URL like this: www.CareerFolio/YourResume.

Some URLs – like www.onlineresumes4u.com/candidate#187402.html – are too long. Long URLs are hard for you (and potential employers) to remember and can hinder your job search. Get the most intuitive URL you can. Return to article