Picture this. You walk into a store, find the perfect pair of shoes, but alas, they don’t have them in your size. You wouldn’t buy them, right?
The same logic applies to your resume—it has to fit you perfectly. A one-size-fits-all resume is like wearing ill-fitting shoes to a job interview. It just doesn’t make a good impression.
Ready to tailor your resume? Start with these tips:
- Know Your Audience
Before you even start typing, research the company and role you’re applying for. What skills are they looking for? What’s their company culture? Tailor your resume to match their needs, and you’ll instantly stand out.
- Highlight Relevant Experience
Your stint as a summer camp counselor might have been fun, but does it relate to the accounting job you’re applying for? Probably not. Keep your resume focused by only including experience and skills that are relevant to the job at hand.
- Use Keywords Wisely
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. These systems scan for keywords related to the job description. Make sure your resume includes these keywords, but don’t just stuff them in—make them flow naturally within the content.
- Show, Don’t Just Tell
It’s easy to claim you’re a “team player” or “highly motivated,” but what does that actually mean? Use concrete examples to demonstrate your skills. Instead of saying you’re a “great salesperson,” specify that you “increased sales by 30% in Q2.”
A resume isn’t just a list of your experience; it’s a marketing document designed to sell the most important product: you.
Need help crafting a resume that’s as unique as you are? Our career coaching services can offer personalized guidance to make your resume truly shine.
