How to Write a Resume that Stands Out

To rise above the competition and have a successful job search, you have to do more than hand out resumes and wait for responses that never come. Applying for jobs is more competitive than ever. With the high volume of applications being submitted to job opportunities, the average employer only spends 15 to 30 seconds looking at a resume. Broadly speaking, it’s no surprise. Reviewing the average resume can get treated like checking out the latest tweet. So this is now the world that you, the job seeker in the city are living in — so how do you get your resume to stand out and make a good impression in that tiny time frame?

Use a Modern, Polished Look

The way your resume looks upon immediate glance is crucial. Your resume is your work product. Choose a clean, modern font like Calibri, Arial or Verdana, size 11 or 12, except for your name which, should be bold and larger than the other text.

Consistent Formatting

In order to increase the readability of your resume, formatting has to be consistent. Margins should be moderate, and text alignment consistent. There is no hard or fast rule on whether or not to bold or italicize your title, and the amount of indentation of your bulleted text. You just have to be consistent. If you bold your title in one job section, bold it everywhere.

Use an Action-Driven Word to Begin Each Sentence

The last hurdle is content. When describing previous job experience, words like “support,” “help,” or “worked,” are going to get eye rolls and a rejection. Be specific and focused. We KNOW you worked, but what did you actually DO? If you have a computer and can use the web, look up “action words” on the search engine of your choice. Also avoid “responsible for…” or “duties included…”. Cut to the chase. Here are some additional tips to help you stand out from the rest:

• Always ensure that the information in the resume is correct. Make sure it is free of spelling and grammar mistakes. It is best to have another person proofread it.
• Get to the point early in your resume. Make sure that your most important skills match those requested by the employer and are listed near the top of the page.
• Use a bulleted list to describe your experience and accomplishments so they are clear and easy to read.

By following these tips above you can dramatically increase your success in this competitive market. A professional resume will stand out and make a good impression in that tiny time frame.

About Kimberly MacMillan

As Partner, Kimberly is responsible for leading the full-cycle recruitment process and managing the day-to-day operations of the office. She also develops and executes creative sourcing strategies that ensure effective talent acquisition of top-tier candidates. Serving as the main point of contact for clients, she, along with her team, endeavor to facilitate a successful completion for every recruit.

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