Dear Abby: I haven’t written a resume in years and I need HELP! or I’ve sent my resume to more places than there are Swifties with no response – HELP!
Don’t worry, the Prospex Recruiting team is here to help you. Here are some tips that get the best response from hiring managers:
Formatting Matters: How to Structure Your Resume
- Chronological Format > Functional Format: Hiring managers want to know what you did, when you did it, and where you did it.
- Bullet Points Over Paragraphs: Keep your content digestible. Short bullet points are easier to skim than bulky paragraphs. One to two descriptive sentences about the company are fine, but concise bullet points are key.
- Balance Accomplishments and Responsibilities: Mix key achievements with daily tasks. Include quantifiable details like revenue generation, cost-saving initiatives, or quota achievements to stand out.
- Outline/Header Format: Show progression and longevity. Use a master header for each company with total years worked, followed by secondary headings for each role, dates, and bullet points for responsibilities and accomplishments.
Highlighting Skills and Certifications
- Technology, Certifications, and Skills: Dedicate a section to showcasing your technical expertise. Be specific about your proficiency, such as Excel (v-lookups, macros, pivot tables), and list all relevant software and ERP systems. Avoid subjective traits like “hard working” or “detail-oriented”—let your bullet points demonstrate those qualities.
- Less Is More: Keep your resume concise at 1-2 pages, focusing on key highlights and leaving room for elaboration during the interview.
- Focus on Recent Experience: Add more details to roles held in the last five years, as they are most relevant. Older experiences are still important but require less detail.
Additional Tips for a Polished Resume
- Certifications After Your Name: Start your resume on a positive note by listing certifications right after your name.
- Skip the Objective Section: Objectives are implied when you’re applying for a role. Use that space to expand on your experience.
- GPA Guidelines: If your GPA is under 3.8, leave it off your resume.
Need Help? Prospex Recruiting Has You Covered
If you want help or a review of your resume, reach out to our Prospex Recruiting team. Head to our website at www.hireprospex.com to learn more about our services.
Meet the Prospex Recruiting Team
💬 What are your best resume tips/hints? We’d love to hear from you!