There’s a hiring storm happening in the US now. That means it’s time to polish that resume and take advantage of the situation.
Experts say America’s job market will continue pushing forward in 2024. One report noted that over half of US companies plan to hire more people. Many businesses are keen to add permanent positions. Others are looking to hire contract workers to bolster their staffing requirements.
That’s good news for those on the job hunt. You have more bargaining power since workers are in demand. But that also means the competition is intense. You need to make a good first impression. A well-written resume can help.
The challenge is creating a resume that will stand out. Here’s how to make a resume that catches recruiters’ attention.
Organize Your Information
A conventional resume includes information like your contact details, educational background, and qualifications. Today’s resume demands more. Your resume should support and enhance the credibility of your digital version. You can do this by organizing the skills and accomplishments you want to highlight.
Decide on the Resume Format
Jobseekers have several resume formats to choose from. Make sure you pick the one that’s best for your experience level. People often use the chronological format. This lists your work experience in reverse chronological order. It’s a good format for those who are applying for an executive-level position. It’s also ideal for applicants who have over a decade of experience in the same industry.
New jobseekers will do well with a functional resume format. This focuses on skills and education. You can also use a combination resume format if you have around eight years of work experience. The format places equal focus on skills and experience.
Include Essential Contact Details
Prospective employers want to know who you are. So make sure you have your fundamental information at the top of your resume. This should include your full name, phone number, location, and email address. Please use your mobile number so recruiters can contact you. You should also make sure your email address is appropriate.
You can also include any relevant social media accounts. For example, you have a professional website or portfolio. A LinkedIn profile is also good to add since it adds legitimacy. Make sure all your contact information is current. But don’t include your street and house number in your address. This is for privacy and security reasons.
Start Strong with a Resume Summary or Goal
You have around seven seconds to make an impression. That’s the time recruiters need to scan your resume. A well-written resume summary or goal can grab the HR’s attention. It also provides an overview of your skills and career goals. You should adapt this part to fit the specific job you’re applying for.
Shine a Spotlight on Your Work Experience and Achievements
HR and recruitment specialists will focus on your work history. The success of your application depends on your work experience and achievements. Make sure you organize this in reverse order. This means your current or recent job should be first on the list. Then work your way down.
There are details that you must include when listing each job. These are your job title, the company name, location, and your employment dates. You should also include around three to five bullet points in each listing. These should highlight the achievements you’ve made in that specific job listing.
Experts say listing 10 years of work experience in your resume is ideal. Focus on the jobs that show your career’s logical progression. You also don’t need to include every job you have. Especially if a particular role doesn’t fit the job you’re applying for. Make sure you highlight your accomplishments. Prospective employers don’t want to read a long list of your daily tasks.
If you can, add quantifiable metrics. For example, mention managing and training 50 teachers. Or that you increased page visits by 57% with your new strategy.
Don’t Forget Your Education and Certifications
More employers are focusing on skills and experience now. That’s not to say your educational background doesn’t matter. It does. So make sure you include it in your resume. It should show the institution’s name and the degree you earned. Make sure you include any certifications or relevant training.
Before You Go
Finding the right job is easy with NW Recruiting Partners. We’re Seattle’s top recruiting firm. We offer executive to mid-level positions in various industries. We specialize in industries like construction, finance, and manufacturing. We also help fill HR, accounting, and marketing posts. You can reach us here or at 206-343-8732.
