Executives receive majority of resumes electronically, survey says

Job seekers are putting away postage stamps and hitting "send" instead, according to a recent survey developed by Accountemps. According to a news release, the survey showed that 56 percent of the resumes received by the executives polled are sent in via e-mail.

When executives were asked the same question "What percentage of resumes that you receive are sent via e-mail?" in 2000, the response was 34 percent.

"With a good strategy, job seekers can use e-mail to conduct an ambitious, highly targeted search that vastly increases their odds of finding a position," said Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps. "Resumes should be easy to read and tailored to the opportunity. The closer a resume matches the qualifications an employer is seeking, the greater the chances of getting an interview."

Messmer offered these tips for applicants to make sure that their e-mailed resumes stand out:

Target your resume.

Don't broadcast your resume indiscriminately. Select positions that fit with credentials and customize your resume to the openings.

Make it computer-friendly.

Format your resume in plain text so that nearly every computer can read it. Many employers use software programs that scan resumes for key words, including specific technical and managerial skills. Incorporate words in your resume that were also used in the job description.

Send it in the correct format.

While some companies have online application processes, others do not. Companies with firewalls and anti-virus software usually discourage e-mail attachments. Pass the text of your resume in the body of the e-mail instead.

Use the subject line wisely.

Make your intentions clear to the recruiter or hiring manager by including the title of the position in the subject line of your e-mail.

Prompt the recipient to keep reading.

Include an introductory message briefly describing your skills and experience, and the reasons you feel you are right for this position.

Provide hard copies.

Bring copies of your resume printed on quality paper to interviews and keep them on hand when networking.

The survey includes responses from 150 senior executives with the nation's 1,000 largest companies.

It was conducted by an independent research firm.