One of the keys to finding a job is carefully crafting a resume that markets your skills and experiences in a way that puts you above your peers. Choose the method of delivering a hard copy of this document wisely to be sure that you do not hurt your chance at the position. While in some cases, it is better to deliver a copy in person. In other cases, it is better to mail it. Always be sure that you personalize your resume delivery in a memorable way.
Primary Consideration
When deciding how to deliver your resume, your primary consideration must be following the instructions of the company for which you want to work. If the job listing gives any preference, follow their recommendation carefully as they listed it that way for a reason. Some firms use whether the applicant followed their directions as an application-screening tool to weed through candidates and attempt to find the best and most trainable employee. When in doubt, follow the directions.
Hand-Delivering a Resume
In some cases, it makes the most impact to deliver your resume in person. For example, if you are applying for a position in which many will apply or if you are comparatively less experienced in the position, you can deliver the resume in person hoping to make a positive impression on your human resources employee. Deliver it in person if you are applying for a customer service or sales job so that you have an opportunity to present yourself as well as the document. Use this opportunity wisely. Dress a little better than most in the position and consider your hygiene thoroughly to make the best impression. Deliver the resume to a specific person, if possible, and use her name while shaking her hand in your greeting.
Mailing a Resume
Some firms prefer you mail the resume. If asked to do so, don't forget to make your cover letter the best it can be. While most human resources professionals only skim cover letters, many say that you can still make a positive impression using this document. This may be one of your only chances to personalize your attempt to work for the firm. While it is always important to have a solid resume, if you mail one with typos or omissions and are not there to defend or explain it, your chance of getting an interview are slim. Follow up with your mailed resume with a call or an office visit after two or three days unless the job posting requests that you do not do so.
Other Considerations
Today many companies request that you transmit your application electronically so that it can be entered automatically into the company database. While this is a very common practice, it does not preclude you from delivering or mailing a thank you note for considering your resume. You should seek to separate yourself for your competition for the job by putting a face on your resume in this way. If you mail a thank you note, follow up with another call later so that you have an opportunity to communicate, in person, with the human resources department.