As one of Woodland’s leading employment agencies, Pacific Staffing knows that even in today’s high tech world, a strong resume is still your ticket into the interviewing process. So with today’s competitive job market, how can you make yours stand out? Here are 6 tips:

Tip #1: Rename your resume.

Rather than just sending a document named “Resume.doc,” rename it using your name – e.g. “Michael Smith Resume.” Or add your job title to the document name. For instance: “Michael Smith, Network Administrator.” This not only ensures your resume remains attached to your application, but also helps it stand out in a sea of other candidate resumes.

Tip #2: Be relevant.

Before applying for a position, read each job posting carefully and make a list of the key skills required, the challenges the employer is facing, and how you can meet their needs. The more targeted and custom your resume is for each position, the better your shot of getting an interview. So even if you have a certain skill you’re proud of, skip including it on your resume if it’s not relevant for a position.

Tip #3. Create a digital version of your resume.

Your resume not only needs to be easy to read, but also easily uploadable and downloadable if you’re submitting it via the Internet. That means you should skip the fancy fonts, bolding, bullets, and all the other formatting that could be converted into characters, like questions marks, when submitting your resume online (versus email or snail mail).

Tip #4. Skip the objective.

An “objective” statement is all about you and what you want. In today’s job market, it’s important instead to quickly tell the employer what you can do for them. So skip the objective and include a summary of qualifications or professional profile at the top of your resume tailored for each position.

Tip #5. Put important points at the top.

A hiring manager is only going to spend 10 or 20 seconds reviewing your resume. That’s why it’s important to put the most important points at the top of your resume (such as in a summary of qualifications or professional profile, as noted above). Also, list the most important responsibilities you had and accomplishments you achieved in order of importance underneath each job title.

Tip #6. Be mindful of the language you use.

Many resumes go through software programs that filter out poor fitting candidates. One way to avoid getting cut is to include keywords in your resume from each job posting. Also, avoid using passive verbs (such as “was responsible for”) and use active verbs (such as “spearheaded, executed, led,” etc.) instead.

Need More Resume Help?

If you do, let Pacific Staffing know. As one of Woodland’s leading employment agencies, we can help you craft a resume that gets results, as well as match you with job opportunities that are a fit for you. Contact us today to learn more.