MENTORME 💎

The Death of Resumes? What You Need to Know

Resumes aren't dead yet, but they're definitely on life support. A recent article written by George J. Ziogas and published in Psychology of Workplaces breaks down how hiring is evolving—and why today's students need to think beyond the resume.

What's Happening:

Resumes are becoming less central. Employers see them as too limited to capture a candidate’s full story. Instead, companies are:

  • Using AI-powered Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that screen resumes based on keywords.

  • Incorporating video resumes and asynchronous video interviews to assess communication skills, personality, and cultural fit.

  • Heavily evaluating your online presence: LinkedIn profiles, personal websites, portfolios, and even social media activity.

The Debate: Pros & Cons

✅ Potential Positives:

  • You can showcase who you are beyond your job titles.

  • Videos give you a chance to demonstrate soft skills and thought process.

  • Online portfolios provide proof of your work and skills.

  • Employers gain a fuller picture of candidates early on.

⛔ Potential Concerns:

  • Risks of bias: age, appearance, neurodivergence, and cultural differences may impact video perceptions.

  • Video formats can be intimidating, especially for students uncomfortable in front of the camera.

  • Some feel online presence checks are invasive—your social life might feel unfairly scrutinized.

  • Growing concern that AI-enhanced, polished videos may escalate competition and create new inequalities.

Actionable Advice: How YOU Can Prepare

The shift is happening. Here’s how to get ahead:

1. Audit Your LinkedIn

  • Tell your story clearly in your "About" section.

  • List projects, internships, research, or passion projects.

  • Follow thought leaders and companies in your field.

  • Use AI tools like ChatGPT to help you draft your content.

2. Start Posting Thought Leadership

  • Share your learning journey.

  • Post reflections on class topics, industry trends, or projects.

  • Showcase your thinking and problem-solving.

3. Curate Your Online Presence

  • Google yourself—what comes up?

  • Remove or lock down anything you wouldn’t want an employer to see.

  • Build a simple portfolio or website (try Notion, Canva, Wix).

4. Practice Video Communication

  • Do short practice videos answering common interview questions.

  • Keep it simple, clear, and authentic.

  • Use tools like Descript, Synthesia, or Opus Clip for polishing.

5. Use AI as Your Career Assistant

  • Use ChatGPT or other AI tools to: Brainstorm LinkedIn post ideas.

  • Generate interview talking points.

  • Prep for video submissions.

  • Review resumes for keyword optimization.

📈 QUICK TIP BOX

AI TOOLS TO EXPLORE:

  • ChatGPT (writing help)

  • Descript (video editing)

  • Synthesia (AI avatars)

  • Opus Clip (social video snippets)

  • Notion (personal websites & portfolios)

SIMPLE LINKEDIN POST IDEAS:

  • "One thing I’ve been learning this semester is..."

  • "A project I’m proud of from class is..."

  • "Here’s my take on a recent trend in [your field]..."

BOTTOM LINE:

The hiring game is evolving. That might feel intimidating, but it's also a huge opportunity. If you're intentional about your online presence, you're not just a name on a piece of paper—you become a whole person who stands out. You've got this. And we're here to help you navigate it.