It’s hard to think about how to write a resume so that someone doesn’t have to read it. Wait, what? I know, I know. It doesn’t make sense. And yet, here we are talking about it (or rather, writing about it.)
It’s also hard to think about all the time you have spent agonizing over your resume for it to be tossed in a pile with a bunch of others. Well, this article outlines some specific things you can do to make your resume stand out. These things will make it easier for a recruiter or hiring manager to skim it and place it in the “Contact” pile.
Related: Get a FREE Resume Critique from Professionals
How to Write a Resume That Will Get Noticed
Don’t Get TOO Creative
Recruiters and Hiring Managers don’t have time to decipher what you might mean with clever heading and made up job titles. Some things should just stay the same.
For example, use “Editing Manager” not “Chief Word Slayer.”
Use Numbers, Not Words
Whenever possible use a number (1, 2, 3, 4, 5…) instead of One, Two, Three, etc…
Include a List of Your Skills
If you want to write a narrative for each job or title that you have held and weave in your skills in a nice little story, that is creative. However, also include a list of your skills that is easy to find and read. People are looking for something specific in your resume and this is most likely where they are going to find it.
Use Short Sentences and even Shorter Bullet Points
Bullet point are suppose to be just that: Points. Not run on sentences with two or three points. One point–short and sweet.
The exception is the FIRST bullet point in a job description. Use the first one to summarize the job. Give the reader a clear understanding of the job and your role it in it. Then use the following bullet points to state your skills in that job.
Start with a Template But Don’t End With One
There is not point in reinventing the wheel, so templates are a good place to start. They help with spacing, font, etc. However, you don’t want to be so generic that your resume doesn’t look real. The best way to combat this is to have a professional resume writer look at your final draft. This critique will ensure that everything you have is written in the most effective way possible.
Did we mention we offer free Resume/CV critiques?
To the Right, to the Right!
Align all you dates to the right. That is where people are use to seeing them. Don’t make them hunt for them.
By making your resume easy to read and skim, you stand a much better chance of someone taking a second look and giving you a call.
Good luck and Happy Job Hunting!
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