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Job searching has changed a lot in recent years. Today, a piece of software might screen your resume before a human actually sees it. Yet, even if it does make it to the hiring manager, it still has to persuade them you’re a great fit for the job – within just a few seconds. How can you strike the right balance and get your resume in the “yes” pile? Start with these tips:

How Can You Make Sure Your Resume is in the Right Pile

Tap the Power of Your Network

If you’re applying to a job where you know someone, ask them for a referral or to pass along your resume. This can help get your resume right into the hands of the hiring manager without going through any type of applicant tracking or screen software.

Plus, a resume from an existing employee holds a lot of weight. While it won’t help you land the job if you’re not qualified, it can help you at least get an interview.

Think Quality, Not Quantity

When you really want a new job, it’s easy to send your resume to dozens of companies every day. But do you really want those jobs? If not or you’re not sure, then you’re wasting your time.

Instead, take the time to tailor your resume to each job that you actually want and then customize your cover letter around the position and why you’re a great fit for it. This will help you stand out among a sea of generic cover letters and resumes from other candidates.

Focus on Accomplishments, Not Tasks

Many candidates make the mistake of listing out all their tasks and responsibilities within a certain role. While this is important, accomplishments are really what get the attention of hiring managers.

So, make sure you quantify the impact you had in your past positions. This includes with increased sales, saving a relationship with an unhappy client, streamlining a process, cutting costs, or another area where you had a tangible impact.

Format Your Resume Properly

Resumes need to be easy to read. Why? Because hiring managers only spend a few seconds scanning them. That means you need to keep your resume concise. If you’re experienced, a two-page resume is fine. If, however, you’re a new graduate or looking for an entry-level job, keep your resume to one page.

Also, break your resume into easy-to-scan sections for experience, education, certifications, and any other areas you want to cover. Use boldface fonts for your past job titles and employers, then list your tasks and accomplishments as bullet points underneath. Keep the font to between 10-12 points and make sure margins are around one inch.

Get Help Getting Job Offers

If you’d like help from a professional recruitment firm, turn to OneSource Staffing Solutions. We can learn more about your background and career goals, work closely with you to improve your resume and interview skills, and connect you with jobs that are a great fit for you – all with less hassle of handling your search on your own. Contact us today to get started.