Your Resume is the First Step to Getting That Interview

If it's been a while since you actively participated in a job search, your resume could probably use an update. With more companies using applicant tracking software and competition for jobs at an all-time high, it's imperative that your resume send the right message to recruiters and hiring managers. Here's how to make sure it doesn't get lost in the shuffle.

Include the Right Information

When updating your resume, focus on your strongest accomplishments, especially those that are measurable. Improving department sales by 25 percent over a three-month period is much more attention-grabbing and impressive than being a "good team player." Wherever possible, use real data to back up your achievements. As for contact information, including your physical address is no longer expected and may even work against you. Your current phone number and email address are all that an employer needs in order to contact you for an interview.

Customize Your Resume

Using the same generic resume to apply to dozens of jobs is an outdated and very ineffective tactic. Tailor your resume to address the company's specific needs as outlined in the job description. Start by creating a standard template, then for each job you apply to, read over the job description and make sure your resume includes some of the same keywords and general language. Only highlight the experience and qualifications you possess that directly relate to the job and to the specific company. Anything else is filler.

Keep it Clean and Simple

Hiring managers receive hundreds of resumes for every job opening, so its important to get their attention right away. You can't do that with a multi-page resume, so keep it short and sweet. There's no need to list every job you've ever had; choose only the most relevant experiences as they relate to the company's needs. Where possible, use short phrases and bullet points to emphasize key areas of achievement instead of long sentences and paragraphs.

Leave Out the Filler

If your resume still includes an objective statement at the top, delete it now, as it is outdated and redundant. Employers know your objective - to get an interview and eventually a job. So instead of wasting precious resume space, include a brief career summary, which is a general overview of your most significant career experiences, skills and core competencies.

Proofread

All the resume tailoring in the world won't mean a thing if your resume contains grammar or spelling errors. Take the time to proofread it thoroughly, using your computer's spell-checker and your own eyes. Then, have a friend look over it and provide constructive feedback. Double-check the job posting to be sure you followed every instruction to perfection before submitting.

Your resume gives you an opportunity to make a strong first impression on hiring managers, so make it work for you. Include the right information, eliminate filler, tailor it to every job opportunity and proofread it thoroughly. Each step you take to tweak and improve your resume brings you one step closer to getting called for an interview.

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