Key Trends in Resume Writing

Resume writing, similar to job searches, changes with the times. Paper resumes that accompanied paper applications delivered to a human resources desk were common until the Internet came along and changed everything. Now, job seekers submit most documentation online. Key trends in resumes see beyond the online format and embrace shorter points, integration and personal branding.

Social media created an Internet phenomenon based on shorter posts, less text and more meat in less space. A few key trends in resume writing borrow from Twitter posts. Instead of blocks of text, some recruiters see more and more single lines of text separated by plenty of white space. This forces the eyes of someone perusing resumes to look at whatever text remains on the page.

For example, someone can submit a resume with just 10 lines of 140 characters each or another one with just six lines. These lines show exactly what recruiters want to see, which means someone's past employment, skills, qualifications and certifications are highlighted. When job seekers throw in some keywords from the job posting, the applicant tracking system has an easy time.

Blocks of text without formatting have also become a hot trend for resume writing. This is also because of applicant trackers. Resume submitters must be flexible enough to get the document into the company's database and into the hands of the recruiter. This means writing a text-only resume devoid of formatting and then a spruced-up version with all the proper line spacing, bullet points and small blocks of text. After a job seeker accomplishes both of these things, he should follow up with an internal contact within the company.

Integrated resumes have become another noticeable trend. Resume writing for emails and the Internet means someone can include hyperlinks, social media addresses, visual aids and add-on pieces that lead to more information. If a human resources manager wants more information, he can click on the LinkedIn profile. A callout box draws attention to certain aspects of a resume, and this pulls your eye to the square on the page filled with important information.

Maintaining a personal brand remains a catchphrase for resume writing. Instead of "Contact Information" or "Objective" as a heading, hipsters may name it "Brand Bio" and include a short biographical sketch of the applicant. Skills and certifications fall under the auspices of "Brand Attributes." This trend attempts to take some humanness out of the resume and create a company out of a worker.

Resume writing is not going away any time soon. More and more companies eschew a cover letter, and instead, focus on relevant information found through LinkedIn. However, resumes continue to evolve along with the technology used to hire the top talent for the best jobs.

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