Stand out with an updated resume

The 2020 Virtual Arkansas Statewide Job Fair starts May 19, and to get ready, it might be a good idea for job seekers to update their resumes.

It’s not uncommon for recruiters to receive thousands of resumes for each job opening they post, and the sheer volume of applicants can make it difficult for job seekers to get their resumes seen. In such instances, job seekers must take steps to tip the odds in their favor. By following these guidelines, job seekers may have a better chance of getting their resumes into the right hands.

• Present a professional purpose. Modern standards may suggest that listing a career “objective” is old-fashioned. However, it is helpful to customize your resume so that it is geared toward the position for which you are applying. A career objective may reflect how you are a strong candidate for each specific job you apply for. Use some specifics that tie in to the particular job or company, and you may catch the hiring manager’s attention in the process.

• Embrace keywords. Many employers now use application-tracking software to sift through the scores of resumes that are submitted for each opening they post. Keywords make it easy for employers to sort through thousands of resumes. The right keywords will flag your resume and increase your “relevancy score” in the main HR/recruiting software programs available. Adapt your resume for each application you submit. Use some of the words listed in the initial job posting and description. In addition, look at similar job postings, and incorporate some keywords listed in those ads so you will have all the bases covered.

• Trim the fat. Less is often more regarding resumes. List all of the pertinent information; then go over the resume again and again, and cut out any irrelevant information to remove clutter. Only include information that is relevant to your career goals.

• Highlight what you have done. Rather than listing every job responsibility and position in chronological order, use a resume to highlight specific career accomplishments. This is a time to be your biggest fan and tell the world about all of the great things you have accomplished. Remember to include evidence to back up the claims. According to a 2015 survey by CareerBuilder, employers have said resumes that include links to a candidate’s portfolio, website or blog garner more attention than resumes without such links.

• Put your own voice in the resume. Rather than using standard verbiage on your resume, personalize what you want to say. Hiring managers want to hire a human, not a machine. When speaking about yourself, be sure to use strong action words that define your skills even further. HR professionals cite terms such as “managed,” “achieved” and “improved” as examples of positive, assertive words.

Updating a resume with the goal of standing out among a crowded pool of applicants is a great way for job seekers to land a new job.