Three Ways to Improve Your Resume and Get Noticed by Hiring Managers
When applying for a new position, it’s important to stand out from the pack of candidates. Obviously, your resume plays a critical role in getting noticed by a hiring manager. Crafting a concise resume that leverages the hottest keywords definitely helps you get noticed.
With an eye towards earning an interview and eventually a great job offer, here are some insights on improving your resume. Remember, some positions attract over 100 candidates, so you really need to put your best foot forward. So follow this advice for a successful job search.
Personalize Your Resume For The Job Description
In addition to crafting a personalized cover letter, you should also modify your resume to match the job description for each position that interests you. Where appropriate, match your skills to those detailed in the company’s requirements. Also, highlight your professional experiences that are similar to the job role the company wants.
Additionally, make sure the skills section of your resume is clear and easy to follow; leverage bullet points as necessary. Remember, a hiring manager only gets around a minute or two for a first perusal of each candidate.
Don’t Feel Shy About Bragging
The professional experience section of a resume is where you get the chance to brag about your qualifications. Now is not the time for humility. Concisely illustrate the positive impacts you made for previous employers. Use facts and figures as necessary to highlight the tangible difference you made on projects.
At the same time, don’t lie or even stretch the truth about your accomplishments. Companies have ways to determine whether or not a candidate is lying, including reference checking. Dishonesty is always wrong, so resist the temptation.
Use the Hottest Keywords to Improve Your Resume’s SEO
Most hiring managers search for candidates over the Internet or on social media networks, like LinkedIn. Because of this, use the hottest current keywords on your resume and LinkedIn profile to improve your chances at being at the top of the search results. This approach is great for technical skills, but also pepper the professional experience section with suitable keywords.
At the same time, make sure to avoid certain cliché words and phrases, like “highly qualified” or “results oriented.” Instead, provide examples that illustrate your qualifications. Add a little more detail in your cover letter to show how you’re the perfect candidate.
If you need help with your next technical job search, speak with the expert recruiters at Digital Prospectors. As one of the top IT, Engineering and Life Science staffing agencies in Boston, we know the companies looking for talented professionals. Connect with us soon.