These days, many companies require you to send an electronic resume and cover letter instead of mailing them. While this is done for several reasons, the main reason is that the number of resumes, especially for virtual positions, is usually very high. In order to cut down on the time it takes to process each applicant's resume, companies have resorted to using online resume databases or instructing applicants to email resumes to one person in the office in order to save time and find the right person for the position as quickly as possible.

Creating a Virtual Resume

Creating a virtual resume is similar to creating a traditional resume. While you should include all the basic sections in an electronic resume, you may need to format it differently so the document isn't a jumbled mess when the hiring manager receives it. When creating your resume, you should create four different versions of it – a standard print version, an e-mail version, a scan-friendly version, and a plain text version. By creating different formats all at once, you will save yourself a lot of time when applying for virtual positions.

The standard print version can be used when companies specifically ask you to send one to their offices, or when you are turning in an application in person. An e-mail resume is a simple version that does not include bold or italicized headings. It is more straight-forward with simple headings that indicate a new section. If sending an email resume, always check it first before sending it. If copying it from a word processing program like MS Word, you may need to alter it to fit the email program you're using. Changing the font size, style, and making sentences shorter are common ways to make an email resume more appealing.

A scan-friendly version of your resume is also less complex than a standard print version. You should remove bold or italicized headings because those can appear blurry or faint to the reader. Plain text versions should be composed in MS Word or other word processing program so you can check for grammar and spelling errors. You can easily cut and paste your finished resume into MS notepad or other plain text program. You can use this version when uploading your resume into a company database.

Sending Your Virtual Resume

Always follow the company's instructions when it comes to sending a resume. If the company wants you to send the resume in an email instead of an attachment to the email, make sure you do so. As a potential virtual employee, you need to show employers that you can follow directions.

Always include a cover letter in your email. This should be your standard cover letter. It is considered unprofessional not to send a cover letter.

Before sending the email, check to make sure you are using the correct email address. If the company asks you to use specific words in the subject line, do so. If not, use the job title in the subject line.

When uploading your resume into a company's database, make sure that you include keywords that are relevant to the job position within the body of the resume. Use words from the ad, the title of the position, or other words you feel are applicable. Don't allow your resume to become lost in the system, take the time to find keywords that will make your resume stand out.

Keep in mind that electronic resumes are much easier to discard if they are not formatted properly. Depending on the number of responses a hiring manager receives, they may discard all resumes that are formatted incorrectly before reading them just to make their job easier. Make your resume stand out by sending a professional document that has been edited and formatted correctly.