Many aspects have changed with work and hiring since the pandemic began, but the resume has maintained its importance. A recent trending article on LinkedIn highlighted why a resume is still essential. Candidates need to do the following things to improve their resumes to land their preferred position.
Match Significant Keywords
Search engines live or die based on keywords. Having the best ones is the crucial first step to getting in front of the hiring manager. Many job decision-makers have limited time to look through a resume, which is the job-hunting world we live in. It is recommended to have two dozen keywords on your resume for the job you want—relevant descriptions with the best words that reflect what is needed to garner attention.
Avoid Passive Language
Be assertive and proactive in your language. Make sure the subject of the sentence is performing the activity. An active voice in a sentence is when the subject is accomplishing something instead of having something done. Avoid doing something to the sentence's subject instead of doing something itself. These sentences use an active voice:
The physical therapist facilitates exercise.
A Certified Nurse Assistant provides care.
The surgery scheduler responds to calls.
The hospital patients are recovering.
You will see that each subject performs the action defined by the verb. An active voice communicates confidence to the reader.
Reflecting Industry Trends
Research to find what works and what does not. This depends on the industry you work in or want to break into. Use the best job description and job title. Be aware of what is happening in your industry and reflect on that. Health care professionals can talk about balancing mental health and confronting exhaustion. Leadership during a time of patient overload would be helpful.
Highlight Transferable Skills
Hiring decision-makers like adaptable candidates can help if you want to switch industries or organizations (like corporations, non-profit). A "Performance Profile" can mention the qualifications employers in the new target industry want. This is followed by a Professional Skills section that creates a remarkable first impression and tells the hiring decision-maker that you would be a fit for the role even before examining your industry background.
Display Major Achievements
Do not neglect showing off the career highlights in your resume. Have a section that mentions your accomplishments in advanced education, recent certifications, volunteering, or significant projects. They can be noted throughout your resume under previous roles if applied to the past position. Reflect on the metrics of results. The best candidate gets the job, and you want your resume to prove this.
Since 1988, WSi has looked over millions of resumes. We prepare candidates how to find their next role and advance their careers. To speak with a recruiter about finding a new job, reach out to us today.