Why I Didn't Hire You or Notice Your Unsolicited Resume

Generally speaking, my fax machine is an outgoing creature. It exists primarily for my own convenience when I need to fax something out. I don’t really think of it as an method for inbound communication. What comes into my fax machine is junk – advertisements for cheap health insurance and the daily solicitations for limited time offer, discounted vacations to Mexico. Who knew the Mexican tourism industry relied so heavily on faxes? In bound faxes are usually just junk. There is a reason why the fax machine is placed in close proximity to the recycle basket.

My favorite recent junk fax was from an alleged professional association telling me that I was chosen to be included in their listing of influential people. The fax was addressed to “Manager.” I found it interesting that they didn’t even know my name, but they somehow knew that my background made me perfect for their list. Like I said, nothing but junk.

Your unsolicited faxed resume comes across the exact same way. A resume sent to my fax, with no cover letter, no phone call, no other communication whatsoever is a wasted piece of paper. Fax resume companies promise that your fax will be seen by hiring managers. That is true. I do glance at them as they land in the recycle basket.

During my entire career, I have never hired a candidate from a blind, unsolicited fax resume. Ever.

For starters, I use reliable methods to find candidates. I rely on internal referrals from our excellent staff. I work with experienced recruiters who test and vet candidates before they are presented to me. With these and other professional techniques, what appeal could a blind fax offer?

I receive fax resumes from people applying for positions that do not exist at my company. I receive fax resumes from people who might possibly be suitable for one of our vacancies but I have no idea which one they are interested. I have even received a fax resume from one of my own employees, much to her surprise.

Bottom line: Don’t waste your time with a blind fax resume. If you are interested in a company do some research. Find out who the recruiting manager is. Find out if they are even hiring. Make a phone or send a letter of introduction with your resume. Just do not fax it to me. After all, I might be away on a $200 4-day, 3-night vacation in Cabo.