As the job market continues to evolve, it is more important than ever to create a strong, effective resume that stands out from the competition. If you want to make a splash in 2023, there are several key strategies you can use to create a great resume that will leave an impact on potential employers:
1. Start with a compelling summary.
The first thing a potential employer will see on your resume is your summary or objective statement. This should be a brief and compelling overview of your skills, experience, and career goals, and it should be tailored to the specific job you want.
Be sure to keep your summary to just a couple of sentences. Remember, hiring managers receive hundreds of applications, and your summary might be the only thing they read. Think of it as an elevator pitch for yourself. What do potential employers need to know about you? Here’s an example of an objective summary:
I am a highly motivated, deadline-driven young professional seeking to use my strong organizational and communication skills in a goal-oriented position. With a proven track record of meeting deadlines and managing tasks, I positively impact the organizations I serve.
2. Use keywords and phrases.
In 2023, many employers will use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to automatically scan and evaluate resumes. To ensure that your resume is not filtered out by these systems, use keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job and industry that you are applying for.
You should never send the same resume to two different employers. Instead, start with a template and add keywords from the job listing to your summary, skills, and experience. It might be easier to create a resume for mass submission to various job sites – but you’ll get more attention if you take time to personalize each submission for a specific job.
Highlight your achievements and accomplishments.
Instead of simply listing your duties, use your resume to showcase your achievements and accomplishments. This could include any awards or recognition that you have received, as well as specific examples of how you have exceeded expectations or made a positive impact in your previous roles.
In all your achievements, accomplishments, and responsibilities, use active language and quantifiable details. Show hiring managers what you can do, not what your tasks are. For example, consider the difference in these two formats:
- End-to-end marketing campaign creation
- Create & oversee multimillion-dollar marketing campaigns
By framing each of your responsibilities and accomplishments intentionally, you can stand out among other applicants.
4. Make it visually appealing.
In 2023, a visually appealing resume is more important than ever. Use a clean and professional layout, and include plenty of white space to make your resume easy to read. Use bold or italicized text to highlight key points, and consider using bullet points or numbered lists to organize your information. Finally, consider including a professional headshot on your resume if you have room. Your headshot might make a first impression on hiring managers and subtly urge them to call you.
With the start of a new year, you may have aspirations for a new job and a fresh start. By following these strategies, you can create a great resume that will help you stand out from the competition and land your dream job in 2023 – and don’t forget to review these tips to help you prepare for impending job interviews.