Crafting a Better Human Resources Professional Resume

It pays to make a good first impression, and your resume is often the very first introduction that you have with a potential employer. Whether you are putting together your human resources resume in preparation for a job search or just want to keep it updated, here are some resume tips to keep in mind to make sure that it gets a second look.

In today's job market, employers may be getting many applicants for each open position. In order to stand out from the crowd, customize your human resources resume for each position that you are applying for. Many companies use automated tracking systems to sort through the large amount of resumes that they receive. These systems search for keywords and phrases to identify potential candidates. By taking keywords from the job posting and inserting them into your resume, you can increase your chances of getting past this electronic gatekeeper. A one-size-fits-all resume can be a huge stumbling block to getting to the next step.

Employers are looking for applicants that can start contributing immediately, and your human resources resume is your chance to show them how you can be an asset. Most hiring managers know the basic duties that fall under common job titles, so be sure to focus on your achievements instead. Showcase the impact that you have had in your previous positions rather than the mundane everyday tasks, and be sure to list the results that your actions have had. For example, instead of writing "responsible for staff training," write "successfully developed ongoing staff training program, resulting in increased staff productivity and a 15 percent reduction in turnover." By focusing on results in your human resources resume, you will show potential employers the assets you can bring to their companies.

The biggest improvement that you can make on your human resources resume is to pay attention to the small details. The quickest way to get your resume placed in the reject pile is to have spelling or grammar errors, so be sure to proofread it carefully several times. Make sure it is pleasing to the eye, with a readable font, an organized layout, and an easy-to-understand flow. The smallest details may turn off a picky employer, so pay attention to things like your email address, making sure that it sounds professional and portrays you in a good light. A resume that has even small errors will cause employers to question your ability to complete tasks correctly, while a well-crafted resume will show them your attention to detail and commitment to quality. 

Your human resources resume is a marketing tool, and the product is you. By spending a little time tweaking it using these resume tips, you can reap big rewards in your job search.

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