So how do you get noticed in a competitive market? Creating a standout resume is essential to progress from application to interview stage.
“Resumes get an average of eight seconds of attention before going in the trash—or getting on the shortlist.”
At Gembridge, we receive many applications each week. Recently, an advertisement for one position attracted 315 applications, and a completely different position received only 3 applications plus additional applicants driven through our database and pro-active search process. So, we read a lot of resumes and share our insights, tips and suggestions with you.
Tailor your Resume and Cover Letter to the role you are applying for
Demonstrate that you’ve read the advertisement and/or position description and have understanding of the job you’re applying for and how your background and experience aligns with the role.
Highlight achievements
Make sure your resume highlights your career achievements, rather than a list of duties and skills.
Ensure your contact details are included and correct
This might seem simple, but it’s worth double checking. You want to ensure that it’s easy for someone to be able to contact you!
Focus on your previous 5 roles (or most recent 5-10 years experience)
Showcase what you’ve done most recently that aligns with the job you are applying for. Great to include career history from 10 years or longer, but less detail.
Include any other relevant information:
If you need to relocate for the position, perhaps mention in your cover letter so that the person reviewing your application is aware of your timeline and commitment.
If you are changing careers or industry, let the recruiter or hiring manager know your motivation for the change. Highlight your transferable skills and how you will adapt or fill any gaps you may have.
Some final tips:
Try to use a layout that is easy to read and when it comes to format, often PDF is best as features, fonts or layout style won’t be compromised when opening on different devices. You might find these templates useful www.resumes.io
Length of CV varies according to role and level of experience. Our recommendation being up to 5 pages. Font should be 10pt minimum so don’t change the font to be really tiny just to cram onto a page. On the flip side, don’t include every single detail that your resume becomes a novel. Use your own judgement and be selective on what is essential to include.
Address each application to a specific person rather than ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘To Whom it May Concern’ if possible.
Proofread and check for grammar or spelling mistakes. It can be useful to get someone else to take a look – another pair of eyes might see small mistakes that you haven’t noticed.
Follow instructions of how to apply including closing dates (or immediate), requests to address key selection criteria, number of pages, PDF or Word Format, where to send or upload your application onto a portal.
Be honest, clear and concise.
Must include...
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Your Choice to include...
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What to leave out...
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Written by Jenni D’Orival, Recruitment Consultant, Gembridge.