This great article from a recent issue of the New York Times emphasizes the importance of the “online toolbox” and more specifically the importance of the resume as said box’s most important tool. It offers great advice all around. But, what struck me as I neared the middle of the article was that the jargon suddenly slipped from the perfectly understandable to the slightly high tech. For the 25 and under crew, the article continued on to be completely readable, understandable, and helpful. My assumption for the 40 and over set, is that it became a bit tricky. This is what I like to call a case of digital dysfunction. The advice given is key for anyone looking to set their resume apart from the crowd or to make it accessible to themselves and their prospective employers. But the more complex the verbiage became, the less likely that a less than tech-savvy exec will be able to heed the advice.

We’re all on LinkedIn and Facebook and some are even venturing into the brave new world of Twitter. But really using these social networks and the endless list of other digital doodads (like drop.io, Xing, and others mentioned in the article) to their highest potential is difficult for those of us who didn’t grow up in the digital age or are simply too busy to delve into the ever changing digital landscape. What’s more, with a new application invented every other second it seems, it is an increasingly daunting and time-consuming task to tackle this world of innovation. But just because the professional who’s been around the block might experience a case of digital dysfunction or better yet, utter confusion, every now and then, doesn’t mean there is no cure. I’ll be setting up tools and opportunities right here on DearBev.com in the coming weeks to help you conquer these intimidating new digital heights and rid yourself of tech distress whether you just aren’t the best when it comes to the web or you simply don’t have enough time in your day to focus on the latest technologies that could improve your business or career. Everyone should have the opportunity to make their resume the sharpest tool in their “shed.” Visit our services tab in the near future for help with social media, web portfolios and everything you’ll need to keep that “online toolbox” razor sharp.

-Bev

Illustration by Randall Enos for the New York Times.