You’ve heard tailoring your resume is important. Here’s what to focus on.
The influx of applications makes it challenging for recruiters to sift through them all. Here’s how you can stand out
1. Apply Early: Try to apply within the first few days of the job opening. This doesn't mean you shouldn't apply after 3-4 days, but your chances are higher if you apply right away. My recruiter friends tell me they sometimes close the role after only a few days because they have enough applicants.
2. Find an Internal Advocate: Network to find someone within the company who can support your application. I realize this isn't easy with a covert job search, but some studies show referrals have a 40% higher chance of getting the job.
3. Optimize for ATS: Tools like Jobscan.co suggest a 70-80% match. Achieving this can be difficult without keyword stuffing (which HR hates). I've never gotten a resume that high. Use these tools to identify themes and areas your resume might be missing, but don't let them drive you crazy.
4. Tailor Your Resume: Tailor your resume for each job. Spend about 30 minutes better targeting your resume. Here are some ChatGPT prompts that might help:
a. Keyword Identification: "Generate the 20 most important keywords an ATS would look for in this position" (copy and paste job description). Add these keywords to your Competencies/Skills/Strengths section and throughout your document where relevant.
b. Bullet Point Optimization: "Please rate the following resume bullets based on the impressiveness of their accomplishments and their inclusion of important keywords for this job" (paste job description) + for this resume (paste your resume bullets, section by section). Rearrange your bullets based on the ranking to ensure the most impressive ones are seen first. People get bored and don't read all your bullets.
c. Skill Gap Analysis: "Are there any important accomplishments I'm missing on this resume" (paste resume removing personal information) "for this job description" (paste job description). "If so, can you write up five examples of bullet points I could consider adding with sample metrics and accomplishment statements?" Use this content for inspiration on what you could add.
5. Additional Tips:
Cover Letter: Don’t forget a customized cover letter. It can make a difference by providing context to your resume.
LinkedIn Profile: Ensure your LinkedIn profile aligns with your resume and is up-to-date. Sometimes recruiters look there first.
Follow Up: If possible, follow up on your application. A polite inquiry can sometimes bring your application to the forefront.