JOB OPPERTUNITES LOMBARD IL

That's why letters of recommendation are more important now in the job search process than ever before - often more important than your resume. If you've ever been involved in hiring, then you know it doesn't take long before all those resumes start sounding alike. Resume after resume - the whole pile starts to become a blur.

Letters of recommendation are different. Hard-hitting, objective opinions from real-life professionals that have actually worked with you can communicate more about what you offer than you could ever get across in a resume... that is, if you can get the right letter.

1. PROBLEM: Getting good recommendation letters isn't easy - even when you deserve them!
2. People are often reluctant to write letters of recommendation - even when you are more than deserving. Why? Well, a typical excuse is that they are too busy. After all, doing a letter of recommendation can take some time - especially if you don't do them often. Even so, often lack of time is just an excuse; it isn't the real reason why most people don't like writing recommendation letters. A more common - and more embarrassing - reason managers are reluctant to write reference letters is that they don't think they can do a good job. In fact, they fear that a letter they write will be so bad that it will make them look unprofessional, and you and the person receiving your letter will lose respect for them and the organizations they represent.

Of course, they won't tell you that; you just won't ever get your letter. Clearly, though, some people have figured this out. They are able to secure the kinds of letters that opportunities the rest can only dream of.

How do they do it?

- Are they just better than everyone else?

- Do they work harder?

- Are they smarter or better educated?