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Mastering Your Resume Strategy
Crafting a Winning Resume Strategy for Maximum Impact
*THE SOLE PERPOSE OF YOUR RESUME IS TO GET YOU AN INTERVIEW*
Build it like that, it is a marketing document nothing more.
Who is reviewing your resume?
9 times out of 10 the first person who reviews your resume DOES NOT do what you do on a daily basis. They have no idea what you actually do.
Their main task is to quickly scan resumes for specific skills and qualifications outlined by the hiring manager. If your resume doesn't cater to this type of reader, it's likely to be dismissed early in the process.
You need to grab their attention within the first 10-15 seconds. If you fail to do so, your resume might not even get a fair chance.
Your focus should be on your most recent position. In your first 5-10 bullet points you need to be highlighting your key skills you are bringing to the table. This skill ideally will be highlighted in the Job Description.
Keep it simple, you do not have to get as detailed as you think.
What I’m Doing: Clearly state your job role
How I’m doing it: Briefly explain your approach
Results: Highlight the outcomes of your efforts, preferable using number and statistics
Simple Format
If your resume is confusing, consider it a lost cause. It won't make it past the initial stages. Remember, recruiters sift through a pile of 50+ resumes, and they simply don't have the time to decode yours. If it's not easy to grasp, it's likely to be discarded.
Fancy fonts, colors, headers, or images are unnecessary. Stick to a simple black and white format, and make sure to list your most recent job first.
While it's acceptable for your resume to extend beyond a single page, try to keep it within three pages. Cut out filler sentences like "I work well in a team" – you'll have the opportunity to demonstrate this in the interview. Trust me, no one will be convinced by these words on paper; you'll need to back it up with real examples.
The Perception of Your Resume
The perception of your resume plays a crucial role in shaping how potential employers perceive your qualifications and suitability for a job. If your resume is not effectively presented, organized, or tailored to the specific job you're applying for, it can indeed hold you back from getting job interviews. Here are some common ways this perception can negatively impact your chances:
Lack of Clarity and Relevance: If your resume is unclear, disorganized, or doesn't highlight relevant skills and experiences, employers might struggle to understand your qualifications and how they relate to the job. A cluttered or confusing resume can lead to an unfavorable perception, making it easy for employers to move on to the next candidate.
Generic Content: Using a generic, one-size-fits-all resume for all job applications can lead employers to believe that you haven't put in the effort to tailor your application to their specific needs. Customizing your resume for each job demonstrates a genuine interest in the position and shows that you've taken the time to understand the job requirements.
Irrelevant Information: Including irrelevant information, such as unrelated work experiences or skills, can create the perception that you lack focus or that you're trying to compensate for a lack of relevant qualifications. Be sure to only include information that directly supports your candidacy for the specific role.
Lack of Accomplishments: Simply listing job responsibilities without showcasing your accomplishments and the impact you've made in previous roles can make your resume seem uninspiring. Highlighting quantifiable achievements can provide evidence of your skills and abilities.
Formatting and Design Issues: If your resume is poorly formatted, contains spelling or grammatical errors, or lacks visual appeal, it can reflect negatively on your attention to detail and professionalism. A well-designed, error-free resume is crucial for making a positive first impression.
Gaps or Employment History Issues: Unexplained gaps in your employment history or frequent job changes without clear reasons can raise questions about your reliability and commitment. Address any gaps or changes in a transparent and positive manner.
Overwhelming Length: A resume that is too long might overwhelm employers and discourage them from reading through the entire document. Aim for a concise and focused resume that presents your qualifications effectively without unnecessary details.
Outdated Information: Including outdated skills or certifications can give the impression that you're not keeping up with industry trends. Make sure your resume reflects your current skill set and any recent professional development.
Unprofessional Email Address or Contact Information: An unprofessional email address or inaccurate contact information can undermine your credibility. Ensure that your contact details are up-to-date and present you in a professional light.
You have had more than 5 positions in the last 5 years and are struggling to get interviews.
Do this.
On your resume list, why each position came to an end.
Go as far as listing a reference to back it up.
This number of jobs will come across to an employer negative no… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
— Dan Barczuk (@Ko_Talent)
6:47 PM • Aug 24, 2023
If your resume is confusing, consider it a lost cause.
It won't make it past the initial stages.
— Dan Barczuk (@Ko_Talent)
3:19 PM • Aug 29, 2023
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If you are interested in any of these positions connect with me on LinkedIn would love to set up a call to discuss more Indepth.