Resume Tips from a Corporate Recruiter
1.
Spelling and Grammar Check
This sounds like such a
no-brainer, however I have seen so many folks get rejected for a role due to
spelling and grammar errors. There is normally a large pool of job applicants for
employers to choose from, so even just one error on your resume can be an easy
way for hiring managers to weed out candidates.
2.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Throw away those standard
resume templates. Be creative and make your resume stand out. Now I’m not
saying to use tons of crazy bright colors on your resume if you are applying
for a management role, however you should make your resume look different. Hiring
managers and recruiters sift through so many resumes a day that most resumes
begin to blend together. When we see a
well written and creative looking resume, we pay a bit more attention and spend
more time considering the candidate.
3.
Relevant Information First
Add your most relevant information
to the top of your resume. For example is a job ad calls for someone with a
degree in Accounting and skills with Excel Pivot tables, note this information
at the top of your resume, not at the bottom. Easy enough right? You just won’t
believe how often people look over doing this.
4.
Keywords!
Use enough keywords in your
resume. Look at the particular job description you are applying for and make
sure that you are including the same keywords. For example if the position is
asking for someone with skills in computer programming, use the word ‘programming’
instead of ‘developing’ or ‘building’, when describing your computer skills. With
new technology sometimes an applicant tracking system automatically places your
resume to the bottom of a list due to the number of keywords listed, so if you
are using different keywords you may be at a disadvantage. Often times a
hiring manager is looking for keywords to weed through a large number of
resumes.
5.
Have Someone Review
Make sure that your resume is
clearly written so that someone in another profession can understand. This is
very important because if a hiring manager is unable to clearly read and
understand your resume, they are less likely to consider you for a role. Keep
in mind that the person reviewing your resume could be from a different
industry than what you are applying. Having someone review is also another
chance to check for any mistakes within the resume.
6.
Save, Save, Save
Have your resume available at
all times by saving it to your home computer, usb/flash drive and send a copy
to your personal email address. And also be sure to have the resume saved in
both pdf and word format. We know that computers can be tricky at times...let's
say you send your resume directly to someone via email and they have some
computers issues, sending both a pdf and word version helps. Trust me - you'll
be better of having your resume in both formats.
7.
Keep it Current
I know, I know! Who has the
time to constantly update their resume? However if you are actively looking,
this can be important. You will want to capture any changes in your title,
responsibilities, etc. Sometimes even small additions can make a difference.
I hope these tips are helpful
in your job search! Happy Hunting!
For more resume tips and job
hunting advice, leave me a comment below.
JessGivesAdvice
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