Not progressing in the hiring process? Unsure why? Beginning to think it might be something wrong with your resume?
While we don't know what is wrong with your resume without seeing it, we can make a few guesses, based on the many resumes we review each year. Let's evaluate 3 common cases.
1. Your Resume Uses Outdated or Inappropriate Formatting
Imagine you are hiring manager. You have 200 resumes to look through for 1 job opening, but only have time to interview 5-10 of the applicants. You likely want to narrow down the pile quickly, so you may do a first pass before delving deeply into the top 25 or so to determine who to call. This means you might not look at the details, such as metrics during the first glance. Instead you might immediately discard resumes that have outdated or inappropriate formatting. Here are some features that could result in your resume being immediately discarded:
Any resume that contains a photo may be cast aside, so as to avoid appearing biased.
A resume with an objective statement indicates the employee is more focused on what they will gain as opposed to what they can provide. Is it worth time reading further? Probably not.
Does the resume say "References Available Upon Request?" If so, they didn't bother to put in a little effort to learn about current resume practices. This phrase hasn't been included on resumes in well over a decade!
Is it 3+ pages? Who has time to read all of that? Plus, it shows the job seeker did not spend the time narrowing down their experience. Only show what is relevant to this particular job opening.
2. Your Resume is Too Generic
Is your resume vague and unfocused? This may prevent you from successfully showcasing your value and specific experience.
A high quality resume will provide what you did in your previous roles and how you succeeded. This is what employers are looking for when they read a resume. They want to know the impact you will make in a new role.
Companies hire because they have specific needs that they need addressed. If your resume is too generic, it won't communicate how your background aligns with the job opening. A common example of this is a resume that just lists your job duties, but doesn't explain how you achieved them.
A vague and unfocused resume is unlikely to capture the attention of the hiring manager. It doesn't show why you are a strong candidate worth following up with.
3. Your Resume Does Not Include Keywords
We recently had a client tell us she had applied for numerous career postings, but only landed one interview. She wanted her resume evaluated to determine how to grab the reader's attention.
At first glance, her resume wasn't too bad. It followed current resume guidelines:
She had an executive summary, not an objective statement.
She started each bullet with a strong action verb and did have a metrics, so it was not an unfocused resume.
However this individual had not properly included keywords. She had tried to make her wording fancy. So instead of "customer engagement," which is commonly used in her industry, she used the word "advocacy." Instead of "data analysis," she used the phrase "proof points." She implemented the phrase "journeys" as opposed to "campaign planning."
It is important to include common top keywords within your resume and cover letter. Although it may feel boring, that is what the hiring manager is looking for when he or she skims the document. An applicant tracking system may also be sorting based on specific keywords. Don't assume the human or machine will connect the dots to realize you saying "advocacy" is the same as "customer engagement."
Contact Revision Resume
Need help determining which experiences to include on your resume? Unsure of which keywords are important? Not confident your resume meets current industry standards? Having trouble "tooting your own horn" by recording your successes on your resume? We can help with all of these potential issues. Contact us today! We provide resume critiques in addition to resume creations, assisting clients in all phases of their job search journey.
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