Your resume is your first chance to show a company what sets you apart from other job seekers. That means you must treat it as a marketing document designed to sell yourself as a quality candidate.
Here are three tips to make your resume rise to the top:
1. Customize Your Resume For Each Application
Tailoring your approach to each job might sound time-consuming, but it’s as easy as changing a few words.
When applying online, your resume will probably get scanned for relevant keywords by automated screening software. The keywords they’re looking for will be in the job description. Identify them and pepper them throughout your resume.
For example, if you’re applying to an accounting position, some relevant keywords that could appear in the job description are “payroll,” “billing,” or “analysis.” Don’t shoehorn them into your resume. Find a relevant area to add them to and rewrite sections as needed.
Look at your resume as an almost complete template that needs minor changes for each position and you’ll start getting more responses.
2. Achievements Over Tasks
Instead of describing your everyday responsibilities in your work experience, focus on things you achieved while in each role. This shows potential employers you don’t just do your job, you look for ways to make everyone’s job better.
Let’s say at one company you maintained office supply levels, and during your time there, you reduced monthly expenditures on office supplies by a certain percentage. Then write something like “Reduced monthly expenditures on office supplies by 30%” instead of “Responsible for buying office supplies.”
Not all accomplishments are measurable, but back them up with numbers wherever you can.
3. Make It Easy To Read
Many people make the mistake of overwriting their resumes, thinking it makes them look more accomplished. But recruiters don’t have time to read the story of your work history. To make your resume easier to read:
- Use bulleted lists to make your document easier to scan.
- Use clear, concise language to highlight the pertinent information.
- Avoid large blocks of text.
The employment experience section of your resume doesn’t have to be chronological. Putting your most relevant work experience toward the top will keep a hiring manager from missing it. Leaving out experiences and minor achievements that aren’t related to the position can also unclutter your resume.
Contact the Experts at SVS Group Today
You’ve put a lot of work into your career and the best way to show that is to put a little work into your resume. Keywords get you past the screening software. Focusing on accomplishments will get a hiring manager’s attention. And making it easy to read keeps them from missing pertinent details.
SVS Group has the most knowledgeable staff in the Bay Area and working with one of our recruiters is yet another ace up your sleeve. We’ll review your resume and make sure you’re prepared for each interview. Contact us now to land your dream job!