The Strategy Behind Strong Resumes

Key elements–As a general rule, the first person to look at a resume will spend between 10 and 15 seconds. And this person is most likely not the hiring manager. In that brief period, a resume must grab that person’s attention–with key words and phrases that make the reader want to take a closer look. If this doesn’t happen, the resume goes in the “thanks but no thanks” pile. This applicant, no matter how qualified, no matter how good of a match, will not get the job. A resume has only one job–to get the applicant an interview. And if his or her resume doesn’t make the first cut, this won’t happen. He or she will not get the job. There is really only one major key element–make the first cut.

Many professionals put too much information in their resumes. They include lots of details that end up making the resume too long. My rule is simple. Have a one-page resume unless you have 2 pages of relevant information. And if you have more than 2 pages of information–your resume is too long. Cut it down to 2 pages. Some of the details may be relevant during an interview. The resume is only supposed to get someone’s attention, not to provide a complete, detailed history.
This can be done by emphasizing skill sets, specific experience and accomplishments, as opposed to focusing on different roles, industries or career stages. Also, a cover letter, specifically aimed at the particular job, can go a long way towards making the first cut.

Computers are doing an increasing amount of resume screening. Key words and phrases, along with short, definitive statements are the best way to get past this initial screening.

Professionals need to remember that hiring companies do not care who they hire. They only want to hire somebody who can do their job. Use key words and phrases, short, action-oriented statements and a few specific accomplishments. You must make it easy for the reader to quickly see something that catches his or her interest. Then, they will probably give your resume a closer look. Remember–your resume must make the first cut.

I have worked with many professionals with very impressive and extensive backgrounds. One of my biggest challenges in writing a new resume has been getting them to understand and accept that we need to cut a lot of this from their existing resume. They are understandably proud of their career history. What I have usually been able to convince them is that many of these details can be brought up during an interview. And that including them in a long resume only gets in the way of what a resume is supposed to do. Resumes don’t get people jobs. Resumes get people interviews. And interviews get people jobs.