Why bother sending a resume?

Resume expert Kim Isaacs explains why you really do need a resume in this second of five series. 

The notion that the resume is "dead"--or at least dying--has been discussed by career professionals for years. The idea is that if networking is one of the best ways to get your foot in the door, why do you need a resume? Add to this the proliferation of online profiles and the use of Twitter and other social networking sites to source for jobs, and the traditional resume is not looking too hot.

But not so fast. While it would be nice to cross the tedious task of resume development from our to-do lists, the resume is still alive--and kicking. Here are three reasons why you should still bother sending a resume:

1. You might have a connection for a great job, but that person will probably ask for your resume at some point. If it's shared within the office and viewed by someone who doesn't know you, your resume must stand on its own and "sell" your credentials. As employers beef up background checks, resumes are normally requested to corroborate information. The traditional resume might not have opened the door, but it's key to facilitating a job offer.

2. Resume database technologies are becoming more sophisticated, and many companies are relying on electronically submitted resumes. If your resume isn't in the system, you could miss out on a great opportunity. Make sure that your resume is maximized for keywords so that you can be found in an applicant search.

3. Think snail mailed resumes are extinct? While your peers are mass emailing their resumes, try printing and mailing your resume and cover letter. You should still submit your resume electronically to get it in the system quickly, and follow up by shipping the printed version. This approach works well with smaller employers, and can be especially effective when you speak directly to the hiring manager's needs.

Are there job searchers who can get away with never sending a resume? Of course, they do exist. And for the rest of the 99.9999% of us, let's keep ours up-to-date and ready to go.

--Kim Isaacs

Kim Isaacs is a firm believer in the power of a resume to jump-start careers and change lives. She is the director of ResumePower.com, a resume writing firm that prepares job seekers for success in a competitive job market. Kim has served as Monster's Resume Expert since 1999.

More resume resources

Monster.com and Office have partnered to assist you with your job search. Crabby explains all about the monster in the office and how you can enhance your job skills with Office certification. Find these and other resume resources on Office.com. While you're working on your resume, check out the Office Comic for the dose of good humor required to power your job search.

More from Kim Isaacs on The Office Blog

• Part 1: Start your job search with a new and improved resume
• Part 3: Are hard-copy resumes obsolete?
• Part 4: Is your resume lost in cyberspace?
• Part 5: You need a shorter resume