What's Hot and What's Not

Whether you're a recent college graduate breaking into your career field or a seasoned industry veteran looking for a change of scenery, it's imperative that you keep up with the latest job search trends. Find out what's hot and what's not in job searching so you can be successful in your quest for employment.

1. Not: One-Page Resumes

While a well-written resume is a vital component of your job search, it's no longer necessary to limit the document to one page. If you have a great deal of job experience, qualifications and accomplishments relevant to the desired position, feel free to include all of this information. Just be sure the content is interesting enough to make the hiring manager flip to page two.

2. Hot: Social Media Presence

Rather than avoiding social media, make sure your social profiles project a professional image. It's common for human resource officers to screen candidates on social media, so take advantage of this job search trend and use Twitter to share articles relevant to your industry or to network with others in your career field.

3. Not: Generic Cover Letters

While some potential employers don't even read cover letters, others are able to spot a generic, one-size-fits-all version with one glance. Make sure your cover letter is addressed directly to the hiring manager, and explain why you are a great fit for the organization. Use terminology and keywords directly from the job posting.

4. Hot: Customized Resumes

A recent job search trend requires you to tailor your resume for every job. Include education, work experiences, accomplishments and qualifications that are relevant to the position for which you're applying. Include any achievements that are sure to impress the organization's hiring reps.

5. Not: Objective Statements

While career coaches once advised job seekers to begin their resumes with objective statements to describe what the applicants want in their next positions, this is no longer the case. Hiring managers are interested in what you can do for their organization, so leave this section out of your resume.

6. Hot: Skills Summaries

A recent job search trend sees skills summaries replacing objective statements. Use this first section of your resume to describe your skills so the hiring organization can clearly see what you have to offer.

7. Not: Job Responsibilities Section

It's likely you're accustomed to listing your previous positions on your resume and including bullet points to explain the job duties and responsibilities you covered in that role. Avoid listing this information, as hiring reps are inclined to already know the job tasks associated with common position titles.

8. Hot: Accomplishments Section

A current job search trend calls for bullet points that list things you've accomplished in previous positions. List awards, achievements or special recognitions you received. Include sales goals you beat or processes you improved so potential employers can see where you excel.

Keeping up with current job search trends lets potential employers know that you're well-versed in the industry and that you pay attention to the latest career news. Get to know what's hot and what's not in job searching so you can stay relevant throughout your career.

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