Resume Building Tips to Get You Hired Faster

Are you looking to get hired faster? If so, optimizing your resume is an essential step. A well-crafted resume can mean the difference between securing a job and being overlooked. Here’s a guide to help you stand out in today’s competitive job market. Here are our best resume building tips to upgrade your resume and boost your application!

#1 Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

While it takes time and effort to tailor your resume for each position, it is essential to a successful application process. Take the time to research the role and what the employer wants in a candidate. Identify keywords and phrases from the job listing and ensure you include them in your resume. Show how you meet or exceed the specific qualifications required. Talk about your relevant experience that applies to the job. Highlight special skills and expertise not found on your resume that make you a good fit, such as computer programming or foreign languages. Doing this shows that you’ve done your homework and have taken the time to customize your resume specifically for this particular job application.

#2 Good Resume Building Highlight Results

Highlighting results-driven accomplishments on your resume is the best way to stand out from any competition and demonstrate your value to potential employers. Instead of simply listing duties performed, you should focus on the impact that those duties had. Use the CAR method (Challenge, Action, Result) when describing each accomplishment. For example, instead of saying, “I managed a team of five people,” say, “I managed a team of five people to complete a project ahead of schedule and under budget.” 

This shows potential employers that you can take the initiative and produce tangible results. Additionally, you can use numbers to quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. For example, if you increased sales in your previous role, include the percentage increase you achieved. By doing this, you will give potential employers an accurate picture of how successful you have been in past positions.

#3 Include Certifications

When building your resume, include any certifications, licenses, or educational requirements relevant to the job. Employers often look for specific qualifications or credentials when selecting candidates. The necessary certificates or licenses can help you stand out from the competition and make your application more attractive. In addition to including these credentials in your resume, you should explain why they make you a qualified candidate. Employers will better understand how your qualifications fit their needs as an organization if you are clear in your credentials. For example, if you have completed coursework in bookkeeping or accounting software, state why this makes you an asset in managing finances at the company. Including this information on your resume will improve your chances of securing an interview and ultimately getting hired.

#4 Use The Job Description

When compiling your resume, you should focus on experience and skills related to the job description and industry you are targeting. Doing this will show potential employers that you have the knowledge and expertise needed for the job. Start by examining the job description for keywords or phrases related to particular skills or qualifications employers need. Then, create a section on your resume highlighting these qualities. Include specific examples of how you have demonstrated each in past roles through direct accomplishments or transferable skills such as problem-solving or communication. Additionally, if an industry-specific term is in the job posting, use it in your resume. Using that term will help employers understand your fit for the role and make them more likely to invite you for an interview.

#5 Include Keywords in Your Resume Building Process

Always include keywords related to the job that attract an employer’s attention. These keywords should be specific and relevant to the position. For example, if you apply for a customer service position, some of the keywords you might use include “customer service experience,” “problem-solving skills,” “time management abilities,” and “communication skills.” Additionally, many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific words and phrases. Therefore, it is crucial to incorporate industry-specific terms into your resume to ensure that these systems pay attention to your application. By including job-specific keywords on your resume, you increase your chances of being noticed by hiring managers.

#6 Utilize Action Verbs

Demonstrate engagement in activities and roles during employment experiences and education history. Utilizing action verbs throughout your resume to quickly and effectively communicate your skills and accomplishments to potential employers is vital. Instead of using weak, passive words, such as “helped” or “performed,” use dynamic action verbs, such as “collaborated,” “directed,” or “transformed.”
Incorporating these into your resume will demonstrate that you have the experience needed for the position. If you are making a career change, choosing words relating to the new field you are entering may be helpful. Doing this will show employers you are up-to-date with the latest industry trends and have transferable skills that make you an ideal candidate. Utilizing action verbs on your resume will help you stand out from other applicants and the ATS system.

#7 Proof Your Resume, And Proof It Again

While your resume might look complete and contain all the necessary information, you may need to look at some minor details. Taking time to double-check for typos, grammar, and formatting errors will help ensure that what you submit is professional and accurate. Additionally, ensuring that your contact information is up-to-date is also important. It’s also a good idea to run a spell checker or use an online grammar-checking tool (such as Grammarly) before submitting it. 

Proofreading your resume ensures that your resume is accurate and ready for review by potential employers.

#8 Fonts Always Matter in Resume Building

Clarity is kindness in resume building, and your fonts are no exception. Refrain from getting fancy with fonts. Easy-to-read fonts, usually a san serif, are the best options. Using bold font can effectively draw attention to important details and highlight the most vital points in your resume. For example, if you have a certain number of years of experience in a particular field, using bold font for this detail will help employers quickly identify it. Consider utilizing bold font when discussing specific accomplishments or certifications related to the position. This will help employers rapidly understand what skills and qualifications you bring and make it easier for them to remember your application.