It seems like each year our attention span is even shorter and more than ever the name of the game is to make a great impression within a few seconds. So how can you get the recruiter to focus on your resume when there are thousands of applicants with similar qualifications? These resume writing guidelines will ensure that you are up to date with the current resume trends in order to help you land the job of your dreams!
Current Resume Trends
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Put the most important information at the top
The recruiter might not always make it to the end of your resume so put the most important information at the top. If you went to a great school then put your education at the top. If you have very relevant work experience then put that at the top. Focus on achievements and accomplishments.
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Use titles that stand out
Recruiters often just skim the titles and only read on if something catches their attention. Print your titles in another color or use underline or bold. Use words that will catch their interest and make then want to read on.
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Focus on Why you are the Best Person for the Job
Make the recruiter understand how valuable you can be to the company. Don’t use the same resume template for each job application. Make sure that each resume is adapted to the specific job and make it clear why the recruiter should hire you for the job. You might want to emphasize achievements in previous jobs if these are achievements that would be appreciated in this job too. Include the language that they use in your cover letter and in your resume but don’t overdo it. Use examples to show how your achievements confirm that you do indeed have the qualities requested on the application.
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Network
Don’t rely solely on your resume to get you an interview. Networking is often the most effective way to find a job. Ask your family and friends if they know of any great opportunities for you and ask them to ask their family or friends as well. Spread the word. Most recruiters will be more likely to trust someone recommended by a mutual friend.
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Include a Summary Statement
Many recruiters receive so many applications that they won’t even bother reading them all. Include a summary statement to ensure that even if they only devote a few seconds to your resume they will still get all the information that they need to make sure that your resume is actually read.
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Be Careful about what you Write on all Social Media
Once you have successfully passed the interview (and often even before you reach that stage) the recruiter is very likely to check you out on social media. Be aware that this is likely to happen and think twice about what you write and publish. If a recruiter checks you out on Facebook what impression are they likely to get? If your resume claims that you are a responsible person but you tell your Facebook friends about an incident that proves you are totally irresponsible assume that the recruiter will read this too. Make sure that things you write in social media do not contradict the contents of your resume.
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Use an Appropriate Resume for the Relevant Industry
In industries where a very formal resume is required don’t include a photo, use a colored resume or video resume and infographics. Visual resumes are often appropriate in certain industries such as advertising, marketing, graphic design but not in all industries. If you are applying for a job for a very creative applicant then make sure that your resume shows how creative you are. Don’t use a standard resume template but think out of the box and show them what you are capable of creating. If infographics and/or video resumes are considered an advantage in your industry then go ahead and use these methods to stand out.
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Make Sure that your Resume is Mobile Friendly
When you send your resume by email you can assume that the recruiter will often open it on a mobile device. Make sure that it looks good on different screens/resolutions. If the recruiter opens it and decides it isn’t worth another look you might not even get a chance to have it read on a wide screen or even make it to the printer.
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Make sure that your Resume is ATS Compatible
ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) are becoming more popular so make sure that your resume is compatible.
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Utilize LinkedIn
More and more companies are using Linked In to either search for relevant applicants or check out your profile to get additional information about you. Update your profile and make sure that it is accurate.
