Rethinking the Role of Resumes

Resumes are often seen as essential for landing a job, but they primarily serve as personal marketing documents aimed at securing a meeting rather than guaranteeing employment. The traditional belief that companies require resumes is not entirely accurate; many candidates have successfully obtained jobs without submitting one, highlighting exceptions even in organizations with strict hiring protocols. For instance, a job offer was received first, with the resume request coming later, demonstrating that these documents are not always integral to the hiring process. The notion that updating a resume should be the first step in a career change often leads to pursuing typical roles rather than seeking more fulfilling and unconventional opportunities.