Time for an Obituary for Resumes?

Given emerging technologies, social networking, and the Google search, it is certainly easier than ever to conduct background research on candidates and to gain a virtual impression of a person before seeing them on paper. From this perspective, the traditional resume is perhaps decreasing in influence in the overall hiring search process includes additional mediums for candidate assessment which enable employers to develop a more comprehensive view of potential candidates. That being said, the resume remains an integral part of the formal application process at most companies, and--as part of this process--enables employers to meet Federal guidelines in tracking applicants and maintaining records in compliance with EEO requirements.

From this standpoint alone, the resume is in no danger of becoming obsolete. (Government regulations take years to change!)

I predict two major changes:

1. Electronic portfolios and/or resumes with active links to project samples will become more popular. The result: more depth and context for readers.

2. Most effective resumes will be brief, targeted, and offer a clear value proposition. I strongly recommend Deb Dib's terrific article on "Trends for Executive Resumes" which provides strategies on creating this type of resume. I agree with Deb: the first step in creating an effective resume is to develop a clear value proposition.