How To Write A Resume That Gets You Hired 2023

Crafting a standout resume is a crucial step in your job search journey. In a competitive job market, a unique and compelling resume can make all the difference. Here, we’ll explore the key elements that can help you create a memorable and effective resume while also highlighting what to avoid.

What to Include in a Resume

In the quest to create a winning resume, it’s essential to distinguish yourself from the crowd. Here are some elements that can help you leave a lasting impression:

1. Simple Design: Your resume’s visual presentation matters. Start with a clean and straightforward header, including your name, phone number, and email address. While some opt to include their street address, many now omit it. Choose a professional fonts and, if you use color, stick to a subtle, business-appropriate palette that doesn’t distract from the content.
2. Clear Summary: Your summary section, located just below the header, should consist of two to three concise sentences. Describe your career strengths, goals, and how you can fulfill the job description. Ensure the tone is professional and not overly casual.
3. Results-Driven Metrics: Go beyond listing your job responsibilities. Highlight your achievements and contributions. Think about how your current role measures success and how you’ve helped your team achieve its goals. Include specific, quantifiable metrics to showcase your impact.
4. Personal Facts: While often overlooked, an “interests” or “about me” section is gaining popularity. It helps employers remember you and even form a personal connection before the interview. Share neutral interests like hobbies, sports, food, or travel in a professional yet slightly playful tone. Keep this section brief, ideally within two sentences.
5. Education and Certifications: Mention where you earned your education, specifying your major and relevant coursework related to the job. Highlight any impressive internships or relevant certifications you’ve attained.

What to Avoid in a Resume

To create a professional and effective resume, steer clear of the following pitfalls:

1. Typos and Errors: Carefully proofread your resume to eliminate any typos or grammatical mistakes. Seek input from multiple sources before finalizing your application.
2. Wordy Summaries: Keep your summary concise and to the point. A lengthy block of text can deter hiring managers from reading further. Consider using bullet points to highlight your strengths.
3. Overused Buzzwords: Avoid cliché terms such as “passionate,” “motivated,” “skilled,” and the like. Tailor your word choice to the job listing and research similar job descriptions for relevant keywords.
4. Resumes Longer Than One Page: While some industries may accept longer resumes, most prefer a one-page format. Streamline your content, removing unnecessary information to maintain brevity.
5. Unprofessional Content: Ensure your resume exudes professionalism. Avoid unprofessional email addresses or the inclusion of photos, as these elements can diminish your resume’s credibility.

Format and Font Tips for a Resume That Gets You Hired

The formatting and font of your resume play a significant role in its overall appeal. Consider the following tips:

Format Types:

1. Chronological: This format is widely accepted as it offers a straightforward, easy-to-read structure. List your professional experience in chronological order, beginning with your current position. For a one-page resume, omit jobs that go beyond the last 10–15 years.
2. Functional: Ideal for highlighting skills and experience over detailed work history, this format focuses on personal strengths. It’s well-suited for recent graduates or individuals reentering the workforce.
3. Combination: This format blends elements of chronological and functional formats, giving equal weight to career achievements and years of experience.
4. Creative/Non-Traditional: Geared toward creative professionals, this format allows you to showcase creative skills, perfect for careers in design, video, and photography. It offers a unique perspective beyond traditional resumes.

Font Types:

Choose a professional and easily readable font from the Sans Serif family, including options like Arial, Geneva, Helvetica, or Avenir. Clean lines and legibility should be your top priorities.

How to Write a Resume That Gets You Hired

Here’s a basic template to help:

1. [Your Name]
2. [Home Address | Phone Number | Email Address]
3. Summary or Objective [Include a short paragraph of two to three sentences. State your job title, qualifications, and how you can contribute to the employer’s goals.]
4. Interests (or Skills if Preferred) [Share your interests, hobbies, or sports teams.]
5. Experience and Employment [Company Name] [Job Title / Start Date – End Date] – [Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements, focusing on quantifiable metrics.]
6. Education and Certifications [Name of Your Most Recent Degree or High School Diploma] [List any relevant certifications if applicable.]

You can now create a unique and effective resume that will help you stand out in the competitive job market. Remember to tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, and continuously update and refine it to reflect your evolving skills and experiences.