5 Resume Tips That Will Get You Hired
A great resume is one of the most impactful factors for getting a new job. To even get the opportunity for the team to see your personality and how great of a fit you would be, you first need to show them how your experience will help their goals. Although we all know what a resume or CV is and we can find many resume templates online, I want to give you five tips that will surely differentiate you in the current job market.
1. The right style and attitude
Adapt your style and the visual elements of the resume to the company to which you are applying. For example, a corporate job usually requires a formal resume, while a start-up or a more laid-back employer may value creativity and even a more cheerful style. However, be sure not to use too many colors throughout the resume. More than two should be avoided unless you use a graphic or a picture that could be seen as interesting by a more creative employer.
To know what the right attitude is, research their brand online, or better yet, research what the decision makers’ personal brand is like online. This does not mean that you need to appear as a different person by lying that you have the same hobbies and interests as they do. Don’t be a yes person, but see if there is some information related to what you enjoy so that you can add it to the hobbies section.
2. Tailor your resume
Use the keywords from the job listing while demonstrating your accomplishments with specific numbers and metrics. Phrases like “attention to detail” and “fast learner” mean nothing if you don’t give an example of when those skills shone. If you are changing careers, demonstrate that you possess transferable skills by highlighting how they align with the new job duties. For example, if you were a nurse in a previous career but now want to become an accountant, mention in the job duties the paperwork you had to complete at the end of each shift and its complexity.
3. Watch for grammar or formatting mistakes
Regardless of the employer’s style, you must avoid typos, grammatical mistakes, or anything related, as the employer will feel that you are not interested in this opportunity. Pay attention to the organization of your formatting. Write the details about your current job in the present tense and use the past tense for the other positions. I encourage you to ask a friend or family member to review it, as they are unfamiliar with it and can spot mistakes more quickly than you.
4. Add a cover letter
Always include a cover letter, even if it’s not required. Regarding the length of a cover letter, I believe it should be kept under a page. Ensure that you write only about relevant accomplishments and skills, and demonstrate how your skills align with what they are looking for. Also, show some of your personality here, but refrain from making jokes, as we all have different senses of humor.
If you are changing careers, demonstrate that you possess transferable skills while being driven and determined to succeed in your new job. Show appreciation for how that career helped you evolve, while also highlighting why the new career is a better fit for you.
5. Headshots
When it comes to headshots, I think that it’s better to avoid them. Mostly because we often choose the wrong type of headshot for the company’s style. However, if you'd like to, please attach a clear photo taken in natural light with a professional smile. What I mean by 'professional' is the type of smile you make when you meet a likable teacher, not the smile you make when you see a delicious-looking chocolate brownie. Although we should look interested, we need to avoid looking hypnotized. 😊
In short, these are five essential tips that will help you strategically present your qualifications to a recruiter. These tips will help you transform your resume from average to exceptional, significantly increasing your chances of an interview.
Good Luck! The right job for you is closer than you can imagine. Go get it.
