Why the Resume Isn't Going Away Anytime Soon

As technology, big data and social media change the hiring process, many job seekers are left wondering whether or not the traditional resume is on its way out. Companies like Zappos, which recently advised applicants to join the company's new social network instead of sending resumes, add fuel to the fire. Don't burn your resume just yet, though — without a massive sea change, it's likely to be an important tool for years to come.

In early 2014, Zappos announced a radical move: it was doing away with job descriptions. In fact, it eliminated the entire standard job application process. Instead, people who want to work for the shoe company are now required to join its new social network. While users will be able to upload their resumes, they will also be judged on a range of other factors, including personal referrals from existing Zappos employees and participation in online quizzes and contests.

The Zappos decision was just one in a string of events that has lead hiring professionals to speculate about the potential death of the traditional resume. Big data hiring, which is rapidly gaining strength, puts less emphasis on the resume and more on the data available to evaluate candidates. LinkedIn profiles often serve the same function as a resume; in fact, some companies request a profile link in addition to or instead of a traditional resume.

Despite the advances in technology and the rapid spread of social media, the traditional resume is not expected to go away yet. Although data-driven hiring systems are making waves, most companies are still firmly entrenched in traditional processes. Many HR departments have invested heavily in resume-scanning programs that identify keywords and find the most qualified candidates. In fact, according to Business Insider, HR departments spent $6 billion in 2013 on online hiring tools. Since big data systems have not yet been fully proven, though, many companies will be unlikely to risk the switch. Price is also a concern; until data analysis programs are available at a more accessible price point, the traditional resume will remain an important part of the hiring process.

When it comes to using social media in the hiring process, the traditional resume has significant advantages. A resume is generally limited to one page, so reviewers can scan it quickly. Finding candidates on a social media platform, even one as organized as LinkedIn, requires more effort on the part of the hiring manager. Resumes are also easy to print or email between hiring committee members. What's more, because resumes generally follow a similar format, it is easy to compare one to another.

Until social media and big data hiring systems become more organized and accessible, the traditional resume is probably here to stay. By maintaining your resume and getting comfortable with the latest technology, you can be prepared for any shift in hiring trends.

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