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Top 5 Tips to get your resume noticed!

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Top 5 Tips to get your resume noticed!

A study by the Ladders, Inc. found that the average initial screening time for a candidate's resume is only 7 seconds. Uhg,…. With not a lot of time to make a good first impression, we cannot stress enough the importance of a strong resume. Your resume is key to getting you that interview; and you can’t get the job without the interview. You have the skills, the work effort and drive…now let’s showcase it!

Here are five simple tips for getting your resume noticed! 

The Basics. Make sure your resume is accurate and error free. Your resume needs to have perfect grammar and spelling.  This is your chance to highlight your attention to detail. We have first-hand known candidates not being chosen for an interview panel due to errors on their resume. Read it out loud or even have a friend double check your work. Do not let a small typo ruin your chances.

The Look. Keep it consistent in formatting and font. Make it is organized and easy to read. Make sure each section is labeled clearly and the margins and bullet points all line up. There needs to be a balance on how much experience you list- not too wordy, but also not too light in content, as that can make you look inexperienced. There are so many amazing templets out there, but make sure you don’t sacrifice content for beauty in support roles.

Make it relevant. This one is key. You want your resume to mirror the role you are applying for. This means you should tweak your resume to reflect what the specific job is seeking.  Unfortunately, this one takes a bit more time and work, but it will pay off. Job descriptions are your cheat sheet. The company listed the responsibilities and requirements they are looking for! Of course, you cannot add things you have not accomplished, but if you notice that they are looking for certain skills you have, make sure to highlight these, and even list these qualifications first. The hiring managers are telling you their priorities- be intentional and let them know you are listening and why you are the perfect fit! 

The feel. This one is extra credit, but it is a good idea to look over the company’s website and get a sense of their culture and values. If what they are showing aligns with your interests, feel free to let that come through as well! 

The nitty gritty. List education at the bottom of your resume if it has been over a year since graduating. Ideally keep your resume one page, maybe two pages max. For Executive Assistant and Administrative Assistant resumes make sure to list the title of the person you supported. Be concise but specific in what you have gained from each experience that is most relevant.  If you choose to engage a professional resume writer make sure they specialize in resumes for your specific field. Remember your resume is a strategic tool for marketing your individual brand, make sure this comes across.

 Still not 100% sure your resume is the best it can be? Burke up and call us.  We have seen thousands of resumes and are happy to offer suggestions. Stand out. Be you. Get the interview. You got this.