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Crafting a Winning Resume: Top Tips for Millennials

As a seasoned expert in recruitment and selection, I’ve spent years studying the art of creating a standout resume. With experience on both sides of the hiring process, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Here are my top tips to help you create a resume that gets noticed.

Ditch the Distractions

Your resume is not the place to showcase your hobbies or interests. Unless they’re directly relevant to the job, leave them out. Focus on highlighting your skills and experiences that align with the role. And please, avoid listing your favorite TV shows or video games – it’s not relevant and can even lead to discrimination.

Professionalism Matters

Get rid of that unprofessional email address and create a simple, professional one. It’s free and will make a huge difference in how you’re perceived by hiring managers. Also, unless you’re applying for a job in social media, leave your handles out of it.

Keyword Magic

Most companies use applicant-tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Make sure to tailor your skills and keywords to match the job posting. This will increase your chances of getting noticed and landing an interview.

Format for Success

Use a combination of paragraphs and bullets to make your resume visually appealing and easy to scan. Summarize your daily tasks in a paragraph, and then list out 5-7 key accomplishments underneath. This will give recruiters a clear understanding of your role and achievements.

Quantify Your Achievements

Numbers speak louder than words. If you’ve implemented a new process, how much time did it save? What costs did it reduce? By how much? Quantify your achievements to demonstrate your value.

Rename Your Job Title

Job titles can be confusing, especially if they’re not industry-standard. Consider editing your job title to reflect industry norms or make it more descriptive. This will help recruiters understand your role and responsibilities.

Avoid Amateur Graphic Design

Graphic design elements may look cool, but they don’t translate well to ATS and can make you appear underqualified. Stick to a simple, clean design and focus on highlighting your skills and achievements.

Brag About Your Achievements

No one will advocate for you when you’re applying for jobs, so take this opportunity to brag about your performance. Highlight your achievements and demonstrate your value to potential employers.

Don’t Explain Gaps in Employment

If you have a gap in employment, address it in a cover letter or interview. Including explanations on your resume can invite unwanted discrimination. Instead, focus on highlighting your skills and achievements.

Remember, your resume is your ticket to getting noticed. By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of landing an interview and scoring your dream job.