Today, most resumes appear unrelated to the job in question. Candidates can distinguish themselves by referring to the specific job in a cover letter and tying the resume to the listed requirements.
A well-crafted resume matters more than ever in your job search. A resume is a crucial first impression that can open doors to new opportunities or consign you to the pile of overlooked candidates. Given that 90% of employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS), there are tricks to creating a compelling resume that gets you through the computer automation to the live person on the other side of the application process.
What are the dos and don’ts of resume writing? Let’s shed light on common misconceptions and provide the insights you need to help create a standout resume that maximizes your chances of landing your dream job.
Resume Myths
Let’s start by debunking some common myths about resume writing. Contrary to popular belief, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach regarding the length of your resume. While it’s essential to be concise and relevant, arbitrarily limiting the number of jobs listed or omitting older experiences can do more harm than good.
Every role you’ve held, regardless of timing, has contributed to your skill set and professional growth, so don’t sell yourself short by leaving gaps in your resume. At the same time, ask yourself, do I really need a 10-page resume? Try to strike a balance between the relevant job experience that fits the role you’re applying to and TMI (too much information).
With that said, we recommend you can keep your resume one-page long, if possible.
Focus on showcasing your most relevant and impactful experiences for the job you’re applying for, regardless of when they occurred.
Comprehensiveness is key. One of job seekers’ gravest mistakes is providing insufficient information on their resumes, assuming that hiring managers will glean the rest during the interview process. For example, leaving out educational credentials can often mean the difference between matching employer requirements and a discarded job candidate.
Recruiters often receive numerous applications and may not have time to follow up on incomplete resumes. That makes providing comprehensive details about your experiences, skills, and accomplishments crucial. Be specific and quantify your achievements whenever possible to provide context and demonstrate your value to prospective employers.
Tips from the Recruiting Pros at ABLE Associates
As a professional recruiting firm, we understand the importance of crafting a standout resume that effectively showcases your unique skills and experiences. Our team of experts is dedicated to guiding you through the resume writing process, offering personalized insights and strategies to help you stand out in a crowded job market. From formatting and language to content and presentation, we’ll work with you to create a tailored resume that highlights your qualifications and aligns with the expectations of your target industry. Our service is free to job seekers (employers pay our fees).
What are the pro tips of resume writing? Here are three from our recruiting experts:
- Keep your resume one page long, if possible. On average, employers look at your resume for no more than seven seconds. Try to make your ideas concise by removing filler words and writing in active voice. Also, eliminate positions that have little to do with the work you’re applying for, if necessary to shorten the CV. List your most important accomplishments instead of tasks and remove any irrelevant information such as hobbies or interests.
- Perhaps most importantly, always tailor your resume to each job application. Customize your objective statement, skills section, and job descriptions to align with the requirements and preferences of the prospective employer. We know this is time-consuming—it’s reasonable to wonder why take the time?
Getting through the ATS is your first hurdle when applying. Did you know only 25% of resumes make it through this computerized gatekeeper? Incorporating keywords from the job posting in your resume will help pull your document to the top of the pile. It will increase your chances of a requirements match—the first hurdle to getting noticed.
- Prioritize the clarity and readability of your resume. Use concise language, bullet points, and white space to enhance your resume’s visual appeal and readability.
Finally, typos and grammatical errors can undermine your credibility and attention to detail, so take the time to review your resume carefully before submitting it. Even better, send us your resume and let our experienced team give you feedback—we can help.
In The Job Hunt? Call ABLE
By following these dos and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a compelling resume that effectively showcases your qualifications and maximizes your chances of success in the job market. Let us be your partner in securing your dream job—contact us today to learn more about our resume writing services and take the next step towards career advancement.