Is Your Resume Too Generic?
Your resume is one of the most important tools you have to showcase why you are a qualified candidate for a position you are interested in. During your job search, you may send your resume out to many potential employers in your quest to find the perfect career opportunity. Hiring managers and HR professionals are often inundated with resumes they need to weed through to find candidates to consider further. Make sure the resumes you are sending will help you to stand out from the crowd.
Unfortunately, a resume that is too generic is unlikely to get noticed and is not going to get you very many interviews. Instead of sending the same standard dull resume for every job you apply to, it is important to:
- Research the company and the position to identify specific skills. When you apply for a job, pay attention to the skills the job listing mentions. Look for the qualifications you need to be considered as a candidate for the job.
- Tailor your resume to highlight the specific skills the company is looking for. After you’ve identified the qualifications the employer is looking for write your resume to specifically show that you have those skills and would be a success within the position. You can do either a chronological or an experience-based resume, whichever will best demonstrate your background is the ideal fit.
- Provide specifics. If you are trying to show a hiring manager you have the skills they are looking for, be as specific as possible. For example, if a company has posted they are looking for someone who is a good team leader, ensure your resume contains details about how you worked on teams, the successes you achieved as a team member, and any awards or official recommendations for your team leadership.
Once you’ve got a great resume, you need to get HR professionals and hiring managers to take notice. Staffing professionals can help you make connections and get your resume in front of the right people. If you’re involved in a job search in Kirkland, Fife, or Renton, SmartTalent can help you to jumpstart your search and find your next career. Contact us now to learn more.
