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Creating a resume employers will notice can seem overwhelming, especially in today’s competitive job market. A resume that is professional, well-written, and comprehensive can be the difference between getting a call-back or not. This article will explain what employers look for when reviewing resumes, and practical tips to write a resume employers will notice. With the right approach and preparation, you can create an impressive resume that will land you the right job opportunity.
Outline
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1-Start with Credentials
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2-Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
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3-Focus on Achievements
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4-Customize for Different Roles
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5-Add Referees When Necessary
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6-Proofread and Proofread Again
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7-Check Formatting
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8-Keep it Updated
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9-Avoid Excessive Details
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10-Include Keywords
1-Start with Credentials
When writing a resume, employers will expect to see credentials displayed first. These include: name, contact information, work experience, and education. This allows them to quickly identify your professional background without having to search for information.
It’s also important to provide accurate information to avoid any questions or miscommunication during the hiring process. Omitting necessary information or providing incorrect information can be off-putting to employers.
Subheadline: Include Certifications
In addition to displaying credentials, it’s important to include any certifications or professional development courses obtained. Listing any credentials, such as a Certified Professional (CPA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or Masters/Doctoral Degree, will give you an edge over other candidates without these credentials. This can help employers distinguish between candidates and make their decision faster.
Subheadline: Update Profile Photos and Headshots
To further stand out from other candidates, it’s a good idea to include a professional profile photo or headshot. Choose a photo that looks professional and reflects your qualifications and values. This can help employers form a more positive impression of you and make a difference in the selection process.
2-Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
When writing your resume, employers will be looking for any skills and experiences you have that can add value to their organization. Highlight your relevant work experiences and descriptions of tasks you led or supervised. This will help employers understand more about your capabilities and the scope of your responsibilities.
Subheadline: Utilize Action Verbs
When you list your skills and work experiences, use action verbs such as “accomplished”, “facilitated”, “oversaw”, “resolved”, etc. This will make your resume more impactful, and employers can clearly see how you positively impacted previous organizations.
Subheadline: Include Soft Skills
Apart from technical skills, it’s important to include soft skills that demonstrate your leadership and initiative. This could include communication, problem solving, analytical skills, and flexibility. Soft skills demonstrate your resourcefulness and competence in any work environment, which makes a huge impression with employers.
3-Focus on Achievements
When listing your previous professional memberships, awards and accomplishments, employers will be impressed. This demonstrates how you added value to organizations in the past and the results you have achieved. When listing your achievements, focus on concrete results, such as increased sales or reduced expenses. This can convince employers that you are a valuable asset to their organization.
Subheadline: Outline Relevant Projects
Employers are interested in any projects you have successfully completed- such as researching, planning, budgeting, strategising and developing. Outline the project in detail, mentioning the outcome of the project, such as cost savings or increased efficiency. This will show employers that you are capable of concrete results and are capable of taking initiative when presented with challenges.
Subheadline: Use Professional Awards
If you have won awards for exemplary work, be sure to include this in your resume. This shows employers that you are a competitive candidate and are not afraid to step up to challenges.
4-Customize for Different Roles
When you are applying for different job roles, tailoring your resume for each one is essential. Research the job description carefully, and identify the skills, experiences and credentials the employer is looking for. Demonstrate how your qualifications match the job description and draw attention to your most impressive achievements. This helps employers clearly see why you are suitable for the role and increases your chances of getting a call back.
Subheadline: Relevant Professional Experiences
Include a section outlining any relevant professional experiences you have in the field you are applying for. This may include industry-specific knowledge or experience working with a certain technology. This will prove to employers that you are knowledgeable in the field and can hit the ground running.
Subheadline: Show Your Relevance
In the job description, look for any keywords you can use to show your relevance to the role. For example, “collaborative environment” might refer to teamwork, “payment processing” could refer to numerical skills, and “clear communication” to excellent verbal and written communication. Show employers how you are suitable for the role in terms of skills and experiences.
People Also Ask
How do I make my resume stand out?
To make your resume stand out, include certifications and professional profile photos, end with a skills summary, focus on achievements, and customize for each role.
How long should a resume be?
A resume should typically be 1-2 pages long. Be concise and include only relevant information, such as the credentials, skills, and experiences the employer is looking for.
Should I include references in my resume?
References should only be included if requested. If the employer is not asking for them, list the contact details of the referees in a separate sheet or email and submit the information when needed.
Should I include an objective in my resume?
An objective is no longer a standard practice as employers are more interested in the skills, experience and achievements you have to offer. It is more effective to write a skills summary highlighting your ability to meet the needs of the employer.
Should I include hobbies in my resume?
Hobbies are not necessary in a resume, as they are not relevant to the role. If the hobbies are relevant to the job you are applying for, such as membership of a professional organization, then it may be included.
Final Words
Writing a resume employers will notice requires preparation and research. Analyze the job description, understand what employers are looking for, and create a resume that defines your professional background and experience. Along with a well-crafted resume, demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the role by proving your skills, experiences and qualifications. With the right approach and effort, you can create a resume that effectively communicates your capabilities and successes, and boosts your chances of getting called for an interview.