http://cv.studio-xl.com

The hiring position was for a Creative Director in the interactive media department of a dotcom, and the resume that the prospect submitted was simply amazing… Out of the dozens of resumes that were submitted, his was the only one that was in physical form; he had overnighted it. It was printed on cardstock recycled paper, and sat underneath an “interstitial” page (glued strategically atop his resume) that advertised his top qualities and why he would be the best candidate for the position. This page folded over to display his printed (relevant) portfolio on the backside.

Definitely the most creative resume I have ever come across, another standout was that he had retained business cards of previous clients for his references section, and had framed them on the resume. The resume was on a standard letter-size, which was not too big as to annoy the hell out of me. It was the only resume I had received in a landscape orientation, and I kept it around to show everyone (great marketing on his part). In his interview, I asked how many resumes he had submitted to other companies, he laughed and said he’s been waiting for this position to open and was confident about filling it. Not cocky, but confident.

Needless to say, he got the job.

The most important thing to me was that he had done his research on the position. On our company. He had research our metrics and found our best form of advertising and response, and utilized that as a method to “advertise” his skills to us.

My point is that if you’re applying for a position, make sure that you take your active part in researching the company and specifically the roles of the position you’re applying for.

1. I’ve heard this advice about Facebook before and keep my profile pretty tidy. But unless you’re connected with the person, can you see anything except their photo and few lines of vital stats?

2. On the topic of Google-ing someone… how would you suggest getting rid of something a particular search result that appears on the first page? Like preventing a certain social network profile from showing without actually deleting the account? Is it possible?