With 30 years of experience in the business, the staff here at Custom Personnel have seen our fair share of resumes. What makes a resume stand out, though? What qualities will make your resume more appealing to employers?
Our tips below look to answer these questions so your resume will attract more interviews.
1. Let Employers Immediately Know What You Can Offer
Most employers don't have the time to read each resume in full. This means you only have 10-15 seconds to compel them to read further. Resumes typically open with an Objective or Professional Profile used as a hook, but many people are writing these incorrectly.
Don't focus on what you want to do, but rather what you can offer. The employer wants to know what they can get from you, not what you're trying to get from them. Rather than stating that you are looking for an accounting position, try saying you are an accountant, how many years you've been doing it, and what benefits you can provide your next employer.
2. Tailor Your Resume to the Position
You want everything in your resume to be as relevant as possible. If you present yourself as the perfect fit, you are more likely to be offered an interview. A generic, 'one-size-fits-all' resume may not be the best, especially if you have multiple skills. You should have a customized resume to fit each type of position you're considering. An employer looking for a painter doesn't necessarily want to read about your skills and experience with carpentry. While it's good to note everything you can offer, the primary focus should be qualifications for the job in question.
3. Quantify Tasks with Numbers
When listing your previous job responsibilities and accomplishments, try to use numbers whenever possible. Instead of "answered phone calls", consider "answered 40 calls daily." The latter gives a clearer idea of the volume you're used to. This can also work with percentages such as: "Revamped unloading process to reduce time by 25%."
4. Highlight Your Skills
While employers will glance over your work experience to get an idea of what you've done before, this doesn't always paint the full picture. Perhaps you've never worked in this company's specific industry before or have ever done that exact job. You may still possess the combination of knowledge and experience to perform the duties required. In this case, you need a separate section to call this to the employer's attention. Citing your skills and achievements can complete the story your work history doesn't tell.
This is even more important if you're fresh out of school with little-to-no work experience.
5. Use Keywords
In the modern world, resumes go online and into databases where prospective employers can search for you. This means it's crucial to include words in your resume that employers are likely to use in their searches. Read job descriptions of positions that interest you and take words from these to include in your resume.
Summary
Keep your resume focused on the position in question. Present your abilities early. Write in a way that captures the employer's attention and makes them want to interview you. Make it clear why they should be interested in hiring you.
Still unsure about your resume? Feel free to send it to info@custompersonnel.com for a professional evaluation!