It can be tough to get an interview in a job market where multitudes of equally-qualified people are fighting for the very same position. So, it’s your job to make your resume stand out from all of the others. We aren’t suggesting that you resort to using brightly colored paper or unusual fonts. Instead, you should try to highlight certain things in your resume that will work in your favor. Here are several tips will point you in the right direction.
One Size Does Not Fit All
Having one resume that you repeatedly send out is certainly the most time-efficient way to apply for a job, but it may not be the most effective method of securing an interview. You may be applying to several similar jobs within your skill set, but there are always subtle differences in job descriptions that your generic resume could fail to address. Take a close look at the job description’s specific key words and use them in your resume as applicable. Not only will your resume appear more targeted, but because larger employers often rely on keyword searches to weed out under-qualified resumes, this method can increase your chances of making it through their preliminary filter.
Education is Important
Some senior applicants may find that it has been many years since they completed their last level of education. That degree you earned from that top tier school may have helped you nab your very first job, and it may very well come in handy again! Even if it has been years since you graduated, if you believe the school you attended is a selling point, make sure to place it in a visible position. Don’t let it get buried at the bottom of your resume – you never know if you and the hiring manager are alumni of the same university.
Get Involved
Mangers know that people who are genuinely interested in their work tend to perform better. We know you are interested in your work – that’s why you chose that career field! If you want to further authenticate your interest in the eyes of your hiring manger, we suggest highlighting your participation in any industry organizations. In addition to expanding your professional network, it will show that you have more than just an idle interest in your career. The same goes for noting any industry publications that you may have written – this will position you as an industry expert, and who wouldn’t want one of those on their team?
Do you have more methods to distinguish your resume from the rest of the bunch? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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