How to Create a Killer Resume That Lands You Interviews

Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, so it's crucial that it's a good one. A well-crafted resume can be the key to landing an interview, while a poorly written one can get you sent straight to the "no" pile. Here's how to create a killer resume that will get you noticed.

1. Choose the Right Format

There are three main resume formats to choose from:

  • Chronological: This is the most common format, and it lists your work experience in reverse chronological order. It's a good choice if you have a strong, consistent work history.
  • Functional: This format focuses on your skills and abilities, rather than your work history. It's a good option if you're changing careers or have gaps in your employment history.
  • Combination: This format combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats. It's a good choice if you want to highlight both your skills and your work experience.

2. Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Don't make the mistake of sending the same generic resume to every job you apply for. Take the time to tailor your resume to the specific job you're applying for. This means reading the job description carefully and highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to the role.

3. Use Keywords

Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. These systems scan your resume for keywords that are relevant to the job. To make sure your resume gets past the ATS, be sure to include keywords from the job description throughout your resume.

4. Quantify Your Accomplishments

Don't just list your job duties. Instead, focus on your accomplishments and quantify them whenever possible. For example, instead of saying "Managed a team of sales representatives," you could say "Managed a team of 10 sales representatives and increased sales by 20% in one year."

5. Keep It Concise

Recruiters and hiring managers are busy people, so they don't have time to read a long, rambling resume. Keep your resume to one page if possible, and make sure it's easy to read and scan. Use bullet points, short sentences, and plenty of white space.

6. Proofread, Proofread, Proofread

Typos and grammatical errors can make you look unprofessional and careless. Before you send out your resume, be sure to proofread it carefully. It's also a good idea to have a friend or family member read it over as well.

Conclusion

Your resume is your most important marketing tool in your job search. By following these tips, you can create a killer resume that will get you noticed and help you to land the job of your dreams.