David Jackson ⋅ Midland, MI U.S. Army, Specialist ⋅ 3 years served

David,
First question would be, were the individuals that have written your resume veterans? You need to be working with a veteran. Next I would check it for dates, if you show too much you're showing that you have a lot of experience and therefore are going to be expensive to hire. An employer's biggest expense is payroll, so if you state that you have 20 + years of experience, you're also saying I'm going to be very expensive to hire. A resume has only one function and that is to get you an interview. So write it with that in mind. One of the bigger forms of discrimination in the working world today is age and more specifically working age. The more you show of that through extensive work history on a resume the more expensive you are showing yourself to be in getting hired. Don't list anything past 10 years and if there are points that are past that, then set up a category that states "Additional Skill and Experience" There you can list all the extra points without dates and reveling how old you are. There are several additional tips and if you would like any help feel free to contact me.

Sarah Bates ⋅ Fallbrook, CA Palomar Community College ⋅ 25 years experience

David, if you still need an opinion on your resume send it to me. Incidentally, every time I sought a job that I wanted, I researched the company to learn what my skills would add to their management. Applying for 40 jobs as you did implies something is either wrong with your resume (as you believe) or your tactics for applying.

Tom Cal, CFA ⋅ San Francisco, CA Army Veteran, Investment Manager ⋅ 25 years experience

How are you networking and are you conducting informational interviews?

Jennifer Tiller ⋅ Washington, DC America Works of Washington, D.C. ⋅ 10 years experience

Like others, I am more than willing to review your resume, David. As a hiring manager, I am not concerned with cliche "key words and phrases." Sound numbers and accomplishments that can be defended attract me to wanting to meet with the prospective candidate.

Unfortunately, I also disagree with many of the outcomes of professional resume writing services. You have a peer group here on this site more interested in your success and transition than the almighty dollar, which leads me to believe you will get more appropriate and honest feedback.

Lastly, networking is necessary. Do you know anyone that works with the companies you are applying to? From top management to hourly positions, knowing someone who can give you insight into hiring standards, company culture, etc. can give you that push to get through the door for an interview. Know who key players are, but do not discount the lower echelons!

Let me know how I can help, and if not, I wish you the best and hope you find some great resources using ACP AdvisorNet!

Jim Spriggs ⋅ South Bend, IN JES Web Copy & Marketing ⋅ 15 years experience

David...something that hasn't been mentioned yet is what type of job are you going for, what position?
To give good advice I need to know all the facts. What are you sending out regarding their job description and in what market area are you focused?

These are all important variables you need to consider. I would like to look at your resume and the jobs you are applying for...please check out my questionnaire and free review on my site.
http://halfahand.com/free-resume-review/

James McClafferty ⋅ Stamford, CT Brain Parade ⋅ 24 years experience

With the internet and email, today's hiring managers get hundred of resumes for job postings. In addition to a well written resume, it's really helpful to get an introduction to the company from someone you know. Networking is really important. Check out LinkedIn and see if you know anyone who knows someone at the company and try to get an introduction.

And here is a link to an article that give some good advice as well: http://mashable.com/2014/04/23/boring-resume-fixes/?utm_cid=mash-com-fb-main-link

Lyn Rundell ⋅ San Francisco, CA HERO Marketing ⋅ 27 years experience

Hi David - In addition to your resume, I'd suggest looking at your application process. I own an ad agency, and am constantly amazed by applicants who don't following the process noted in our posting. Read the posting carefully, if it asked for a cover letter, send a cover letter, etc.

And, give your cover letter some serious attention. It is your one opportunity to really sell yourself. Your resume features your quantifiable experience, but your cover letter is the place to sell YOU. Be sure your personality and enthusiasm shine thru. No "To Whom it May Concern" generic letters. Research the hiring firm, then write a cover letter that is specific to the firm and the position for which you're applying!

Good luck!

SUDHIR BAFNA ⋅ Tucson, AZ Raytheon ⋅ 23 years experience

if you give me your e mail address, i will send you a model resume you can use. be sure to emphasize what your accomplishments were. so do not write something like WORKED AS RADIO TECHNICIAN FOR TEN YEARS. that does not tell the potential employer what you can do for him. in resume and interviews, always focus and concentrate solely on what YOU can do for the employer and NOT on what you want from the job [salary, etc.]. so instead write something like SAVED US MILITARY $50,000 BY SWITCHING FROM WIDGET A TO WIDGET B IN RADIO X IN ROLE AS RADIO TECHNICIAN FOR US ARMY. that gives potential employer of concrete example of how he can potentially benefit from hiring you. but do not lie or exaggerate as it will destroy your credibility

Rui Vogt Alves da Cruz ⋅ Freeport, TX Dow Chemical ⋅ 14 years experience

Very gladly, David. Please send your resume to me and hopefully I'll be able to help with some insights.