Resume Tips To Help You Get Hired
Having a professional resume helps you represent yourself correctly to current and future employers. Your resume gives the first impression to employers about who you are and what you can do. Here are resume tips to help you get hired:
1. Use Keywords
- Research and Incorporate Keywords: When writing your resume, study example resumes from your industry online to find inspiration. Search for job postings and general job descriptions for jobs you would like to apply for and identify the most used keywords. Incorporate these keywords into your resume to align with what employers are looking for in an ideal candidate.
- Tailor for Each Job Application: As you apply for different jobs, study each job description for top keywords and tailor your resume accordingly. This helps your resume match the job posting and increases your chances of getting noticed.
2. Use a Professional Font
- Readable Fonts: Employers have a short time to review your resume, so it should be easy to read. Use fonts like Arial, Times Roman, and Helvetica in 10 to 12 points. This ensures your resume looks professional and is easy to read.
- Optimize White Space: Ensure you do not have any extraneous whitespace. Too much blank space might make your resume seem sparse and distract the reader. Optimize the white space to make every part of your resume count.
3. Use Recent & Relevant Info
- Focus on Recent Experience: Keep your resume as simple and brief as possible without leaving out key information. Research shows that employers spend only 6 seconds per resume. Include your recent work experience, achievements, education, and skills relevant to the job you’re applying for.
- Prioritize Important Information: Place the most important areas of your history at the top of your resume to draw attention to them.
4. Use Active Wording
- Powerful Language: Use powerful wording to get the employer’s attention. Incorporate “active language” such as “completed,” “earned,” and “achieved.” This helps your resume stand out and demonstrates your accomplishments.
- Concise Sentences: Ensure your resume is easy to read by using shorter sentences. Every word should count, as hiring managers often spend less than a minute looking at a resume.
Conclusion
A recent survey by Career Builder revealed that 39% of hiring managers spend less than a minute looking at a resume, meaning you have under a minute to prove yourself to them. Using these resume tips, you can improve your resume and stand out against the competition, increasing your chances of getting hired. By incorporating keywords, using a professional font, including recent and relevant information, and using active wording, you can create a resume that captures the attention of potential employers and helps you secure your next job.