Top 5 Resume Tips to Land Interviews and Beat ATS Systems: A Professional Resume Writing Guide
Job hunting can be daunting, and the competition fierce. An effective resume is crucial to landing interviews and successfully passing Application Tracking Software (ATS) systems. In this blog, we dive into the top 5 things that make a resume effective, using advice from one of the most reputable Professional Resume Writing Service, Expert Resume Pros.com
1. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job
Customize your resume to demonstrate that you understand the job requirements and possess the necessary skills. Research the company and the position to integrate relevant industry-specific terms and jargon.
Actions to take:
Analyze the job description
Identify the key skills and qualifications required
Match your experience with the job requirements
Incorporate appropriate keywords
2. Optimize for ATS with Relevant Keywords
To pass through ATS systems, use relevant keywords from the job description throughout your resume. ATS systems rank resumes based on keyword matches, so the more keywords you include, the higher your chances of landing an interview.
Actions to take:
Locate crucial keywords and phrases from the job description
Strategically weave keywords into your resume
Avoid overstuffing or using irrelevant keywords
3. Focus on Accomplishments and Results
Rather than listing job responsibilities, showcase your accomplishments and the impact you've made in your previous roles. Quantify your achievements to make them more compelling and tangible.
Actions to take:
Consider your most significant accomplishments in each role
Quantify your results using numbers, percentages, or time saved
Use strong action verbs to describe your achievements
4. Choose an ATS-Friendly Format and Design
Ensure your resume is easy to read for both humans and ATS systems by choosing a clean, simple format. Steer clear of graphics, images, or unconventional fonts that may confuse ATS systems.
Actions to take:
Use a simple, clean design
Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri
Avoid graphics, images, and text boxes
Properly format headings and subheadings
5. Proofread and Edit Thoroughly
Submitting a resume with errors can give a negative impression to hiring managers. Enlist the help of a professional resume writing service to ensure your resume is polished and error-free.
Actions to take:
Review your resume multiple times for spelling and grammatical errors
Double-check your contact information
Ask a friend, family member, or professional resume writing service to review your resume
Example 1: Great Resume vs. Poor Resume
Great Resume:
Professional summary: Highly adaptable marketing professional with 5+ years of experience, specializing in social media management and content creation. Consistently increased social media engagement by 30% and drove 20% more website traffic through innovative campaigns.
Work experience:
Social Media Manager, XYZ Company (2018-2021)
Developed and executed data-driven social media strategies, increasing overall engagement by 30%
Collaborated with the content team to create high-quality visual and written content, resulting in a 25% boost in post shares
Managed and optimized a $15,000 monthly advertising budget, increasing ROI by 35%
Poor Resume:
Objective: Looking for a job in marketing where I can use my skills.
Work experience:
XYZ Company (2018-2021)
Handled social media accounts
Created content
Managed advertising budget
Example 2: Great Resume vs. Poor Resume
Great Resume:
Skills:
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Advanced knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
Fluent in English and Spanish
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design, ABC University, 2016-2020
Graduated Magna Cum Laude
Recipient of the Outstanding Design Student Award in 2020
Poor Resume:
Skills:
Microsoft Office
Adobe
Languages
Good communication
Education:
ABC University, 2016-2020
Conclusion:
By tailoring your resume, optimizing it for ATS, focusing on accomplishments, choosing an ATS-friendly format, and proofreading thoroughly, you'll significantly increase your chances of landing job interviews. Remember, the support of a top rated Professional Resume Writing Service can be invaluable in crafting a standout resume that gets you noticed.