How to build a better resume that scares up interviews
If you've been getting ghosted when applying for jobs, it's time to create a better resume worthy of any recruiter's attention.
Back to TopNothing is more terrifying than a prolonged silence after submitting your resume for a job you really want. You wait, and wait and wait—but the fear only increases as the knowledge sets in—you won't be hearing from anyone, anytime soon.
In the spirit of spooky season, we will show you how to build a better resume that scares up more interviews.
Resumes for any experience level
According to Handshake, "Recruiters look at every resume they receive (but only for an average of 6 seconds, so you need to make it count)."4 You need to get noticed, fast.
How to create a strong entry-level resume
Include a cover letter every time
Though some employers make a cover letter optional, it isn't smart to leave it out. Always include a cover letter with your resume. Though any job seeker at any experience level can write a cover letter, they are especially beneficial for bolstering a resume that lacks experience.2
Consider a summary or objective statement
Think about a bulleted summary as opposed to a professional objective statement.3 This works if you don't have as many positions, so you can afford to use that real estate for the bullets.
Speaking of statements, you can mention companies directly in your statement.3 However, this only works under specific circumstances, like creating a tailored resume each time.
Provide an inclusive work history
Work is work. Include your internships, volunteer experience and any other activities relevant to a potential role.3 This will give employers a full picture of who you are.
How to improve your resume as an experienced professional
Include transferable skills
Are you considering a job pivot? If you want to move into a new industry and have transferable skills, place them in your objective statement and skills section.3
Keep it fresh
Update your resume regularly. Even if you aren't in an active search, keeping things current makes it easier to apply when you start looking.
Support your resume with proof
Maintain excellent references to back up your work history when asked. This will mean less scrambling when you find a position worth applying for.
Best practices for the best possible resume (for anyone!)
Tailor your resume
Your resume won't always be read by a human first. Before that, it must pass through an ATS seeking specific terms. Tailored resumes solve for those. When the resume does reach a person, it also speaks directly to the role. Finally, it shows that you read the full job description. Reading comprehension is highly prized.
Rank by importance
Especially in the skills section, place your most aligned skills to the specific job at the forefront.1 This will prove your alignment.
Spend time summarizing yourself
"An objective explains your career goal and what skills you can bring to the company."2 Statements like these can help recruiters get a quick snapshot of your potential. An objective statement should be just a few sentences, which can be hard. It's essential to make it as specific as possible, so give it the time it deserves to add a concise, intentional one.
Show your work (with numbers!)
Not every job seeker has been involved in ROI-boosting projects, but if you have made a measurable impact, quantify it in your position descriptions.1 Providing proof of your impact on organizations is very compelling.
Shorten your resume as much as possible
While more experienced people may need two pages to show the breadth of their experience, and medical professionals may need even more, not everyone does. If you can squish your experience onto one page, that's ideal. Two is fine, though, as long as there's a reason.2
Champion clarity over flash2
While it can be tempting to use your graphic design skills to the max, resumes are much more about the written content than visuals. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep fonts legible
- Use a simple design
- Never include a headshot4
The exception to these points is if you are applying for a graphics job, where the resume could be part of your audition.
Be sure your resume is error-free
The fastest way to have your resume removed from consideration is to submit it with errors. It's disrespectful. Respect yourself and respect your potential employer enough to check your work.
Submit supplementary materials
Do you have other materials that would help you promote yourself? A video resume, portfolio or cover letter (even when not requested) can set you apart.
Add details about companies
Some companies aren't as well-known as others. A short description of what less familar businesses can help add context for recruiters.5
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Your resume is important, so we urge you to invest time in perfecting it. However, if you need an additional hand, consider applying to one of our open roles. If you match with a position we have open, even if you aren't chosen, we will work on your applications and help pair you with the right one.
Sources and inspiration
