Did you know that 99% of Fortune 500 companies use applicant tracking software?
This means that before a person sees your resume it goes through software that ranks it against other applicants using specific search criteria.
The recruitment industry has digitized its initial screening process to save time and money. Knowing how to write a great resume that will beat the algorithm and catch the recruiter’s attention once it gets seen is essential.
Keep reading for a brief guide that makes writing a great resume simple!
Table of Contents
Formatting Matters
Recruiters take an average of 7 seconds to scan a resume.
Resume formatting can make a big difference. You want to choose a format that looks clean and allows the person looking at your resume to see the key points with a quick scan.
Avoid long sentences and filling up the whole page with words. White space helps your resume look less cluttered and makes it easier for the recruiter to keep scanning fluidly.
Chronological Vs Functional Formatting
Chronological formatting is an industry-standard that is always a safe bet. Recruiters are used to this format and it will lend well to them gathering information as they scan your resume.
It can, however, highlight any gaps in your employment history: in time or experience.
Use a functional format if you are trying to break into a new career can highlight your skills and experience. You can choose a combination of the two.
Know How to Introduce Yourself
Algorithm or no, the recruiter will want your contact information. Whatever format you choose, your information should be front and center. If you choose to include your LinkedIn profile, be sure to update it on LinkedIn!
After your contact information, you will need to have a section that summarizes your resume. Introduce yourself and highlight your most relevant skills in 2-3 sentences.
List Work History and Relevant Experience
After your information and resume summary, you will list your work history or work experience.
If you are choosing a chronological format then put your history in chronological order with dates that you worked each job, starting with the most recent.
If you are choosing a functional format, organize this section by relevant skills and experience, utilizing job titles if applicable.
Additional Sections
Use additional sections to highlight other applicable items such as:
- education,
- certifications, or
- languages spoken.
These additional sections can be particularly helpful if you are trying to break into a new career. Be sure to use keywords that apply to the position you are seeking.
Tailor Your Resume
If you are applying to multiple jobs with different career choices, it is important to take the time to make your resume individual to each one.
Tweaking keywords or your summary to line up with the job description will increase your chances of success.
Seeking employment can be hard work, especially if you take the time to make sure you individualize your resume. You may consider using resume writing services to help you keep your applications fresh.
If You Want a Great Job You Need a Great Resume
Writing a great resume can be a simple task if you pick a great format and keep things organized. Take the time to personalize it to different applications to catch the recruiter’s attention. Your resume should highlight what is great about you, so remember to toot your own horn!
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