Resumes Don’t Get You a Job

The job market is always highly competitive, and applicants need multiple approaches to stand out to Human Resources and hiring managers. As an applicant your resume is one of your most important tools. However, hiring managers won’t hire you from your resume. Think of your resume as your teaser/sales brochure to get in the door for an interview. The interview is where you close the sale.

Your goal is to make the hiring manager’s job as easy as possible. They read dozens of resumes daily, so don’t make them read through your resume like reading a novel and hope they pull out how your skills match the job. They do not have the time or desire. Do your homework and tell them up front in your resume’s “Summary” section why you are a good fit for their specific job. Something like “I’m a good fit for your Software Engineer position because…” and then address two or three of the key requirements.
Write your resume as your sales pitch to why they will want to talk to you. They are a prospective customer, and you are trying to sell them “you.”

Craft the Job Specific Resume

1. Tailor Summary for Each Job: Your summary (not your cover letter) is your Cliff’s Notes to why they will want to talk to you. So, customize your resume for each application, tailoring it to specifically answer how your experience and skills satisfy the 2 – 3 main requirements from their job description.
2. Requirements Matrix: Make a table up front with their requirements in the first column and how your experience specifically matches each requirement. Cite the job(s) where you used that experience and make sure that experience is reflected in the bullets for that job.
3. Keywords: Use keywords from the job description to pass their automated talent systems (ATS).
4. Showcase Achievements: In each job focus on accomplishments with quantifiable metrics, such as “increased sales by 20%, reduced software bugs by 50%, etc.”
5. Keep It Concise: Use bullet points and clear headings and keep it to two or three pages.
6. Proofread: Avoid spelling and grammar mistakes by carefully proofreading your resume. Don’t only use Microsoft Word; run it through an artificial intelligence app to catch errors.
7. Be Truthful: Be honest about your experience. Don’t be afraid to elaborate, but do not exaggerate beyond what you did. Assume Human Resources will verify your experience.

Enhance Your Online Presence

1. Optimize LinkedIn: Update your profile, use a high-quality photo, and thoroughly complete your work experience and skills sections. Remove overly personal information.
2. Showcase Work: Share articles, projects, or presentations that demonstrate your expertise.
3. Network Actively: Connect with professionals, join industry groups, and participate in discussions.

Ace the Interview

1. Research the Company: Understand the company’s mission, values, products, and competitors to tailor your answers.
2. Practice Questions: Prepare for common questions and use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Ask a colleague or friend to do mock interviews with you.
3. Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer.
4. Dress Appropriately: Dress professionally, appropriate to the company culture. When in doubt overdress.
5. Follow Up: Send a thank-you email after the interview, reiterating your interest.
6. Further Education: Consider certifications or online courses to enhance your skillset.

Conclusion

Standing out in a competitive job market requires a strategic approach. Tailor your resume, optimize your online presence, and prepare thoroughly for interviews.