Trick of the Trade or Merely a Ruse?

Ever thought of sending a dozen roses in with that resume? Applicants attempt all kinds of gimmicks when it comes to endearing themselves to human resource or hiring managers. And don't they know it!

A recent Wall Street Journal article detailed the matter, and offered more effective techniques to distinguish yourself.

Resume delivery gimmicks recounted in the article span from sending a resume via a homing pigeon (it didn't work; the bird's fate is unknown) to delivering a resume, section by section, inside a set of Russian stacking dolls. Interview shenanigans included an applicant who arrived at an interview with a Rubik's cube to demonstrate her fast problem-solving skills and the person whose interview suit was decidedly un-designer: a gorilla costume.

What inspires people to do this? Rejection, which can make people desperate. They want to get noticed. They get creative, or so they think they are. Unfortunately, like in dating, desperation can deflect from one's true qualities. There may be situations in which well-executed cleverness does work, but applicants would need to know the mindset of the people who will be on the receiving end of their creative efforts.

Highly talented job seekers in especially creative fields – whose job searches will connect them to people more likely to appreciate artistic license – might benefit by adding a flourish if it demonstrates a talent needed for the job.

Some other attention-getting Do's and Don'ts:

• Don't email jokes, goofy photos, or other unprofessional items in your correspondence with hiring managers or recruiters.
• Don't resend them resumes after making only minor edits just to keep on their radar.
• Don't offer them expensive gifts, tickets to events, or anything else that smacks of bribery.
• Don't approach recruiters in social settings about job opportunities unless you know they are willing to talk about business at that time. Ask to meet in a business setting at a later date.
• Don't even think about sending your cover letter without the resume to force the recruiter to personally follow up. Yeah, sure, maybe they will, but only after overcoming their impression that you are deceptive or just plain careless.
• Do research recruiters' personal interests to identify ways to grab their attention. Such information could come in handy during interviews or correspondence if it provides you an avenue to genuinely connect with a hiring manager or recruiter.
• Do consider sending recruiters a card for a nondenominational holiday such as New Year's to remind them of your interest.
• Do include a link to a personal Web site or blog (in an email resume) that demonstrates your knowledge, experience, and abilities.

Bear in mind that even if your creative approach is warmly received, you'll still have to prove your talent and track record.

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