Often the time we review our resumes are when time is of the essence and we are applying to new employment opportunities. It is crucial to submit an application quickly when seeing a new position posted online, in order to be front of the line for your new employer! We update our addresses, emails, write a short description about what makes us the best candidate, and then send it away. Online recruiting has revolutionized the accessibility to employers in every industry, it gives us a pathway into new businesses and what they are looking for. In fact, in 2021, 77% of recruiters for new job roles rely on LinkedIn¹ applications—and that number is growing every year.

 

 

 

 

 

However what we often overlook is really diving deep into the time and effort that a professional resume requires. This creates an ease of access in applying for positions online. Nearly 75% of resumes are immediately overlooked² due to the fact they are not properly formatted, contain no cover letter, or do not include current contact information. When there are hundreds of applicants to one position the key is to make yourself stand out. It sounds harder than it is, yet this week we provide tips from our own team at Backwoods Promotions to make your resume shine. The key component to your resume is to make it professional, relevant, and most importantly exude all of the qualities you have to your potential employer.

1. Sell yourself - That is the most important facet of your resume. Think of your resume as a piece of marketing material that highlights why you are the perfect candidate for the position you are interested in. Objectives you find strength in, case studies you have with previous clients or management, or customer reviews that relate to your role. Not every victory has to be listed in your resume. Pick 2-3 highlights of your career and with each employer to really dial into what will advance you to the next position.

2. Short and Sweet - Keep your resume to one page as best you can. Your name, contact information, and objective statement should top the page as your initial information—and then work history (starting with most current) should begin the work experience portion body of the resume. A list of references can be noted, however that should be a separate document that is provided to the recruiter as requested. Academic achievements should be listed at the end, noting any GPA, honors, or extracurricular achievements as well. If you are a recent graduate this area may be more detailed in lieu of a relevant work history. 

 

 

 

 

3. Use a Standard Font - Although there is a certain beauty to script fonts, keep your professional resume clean and linear. Recruiters look at a resume for about 20 seconds to make their decisions to pass it on, and if they are finding difficulty reading your information they may pass on it quickly. Use a standard font such as Times New Roman or Helvetica, which is easily legible.


4. Keywords are Key - Read the job description you are applying for thoroughly and integrate keywords in your objectives to dictate your strength in those areas. Every resume (even if it is in photography, professional modeling, or digital art) should have a professional look to it. Include statistics and data in your relevant work history that are applicable to the metrics of the new position you are applying for. In short, relate your work history to the role you are applying for. The more you can tie back to the original job description, the more likely your work history will appeal to a new employer.

 

Every industry is evolving annually with positions that become more in demand and others that are becoming obsolete. As technology advances and more recruiters look online to fill job positions, it broadens the channels for applications to be accepted! With so many applicants, anything you can do to set yourself up for success improves your odds for a first round interview. 

 

 

 

 

If you are transitioning into a new role, looking for a new field to work in, or simply updating your resume and doing some “housekeeping” we encourage everyone to take some time and review their resume! By polishing your resume to be the best descriptor of your professional achievements, you can confidently go into the new direction of your career. 

 

Need some more advice for polishing your resume? Contact us here to continue the conversation! 

 

 

Source Citations:

1. Source: How to Write a Resume - LinkedIn

2. Source: Employers Share -Career Builder