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Resumes today: what should they look like, what should they say and how should they say it?
A great discussion of recruiting in the age of automated applicant tracking systems (on Focus at http://focus.com/c/BTR) raises a tantalizing related question. From the HR professional's perspective, what is the optimal resume format today? Chronological? Function/achievement-focused? A hybrid of the two? What does an applicant's resume have to look like and contain to make it past the automated system AND impress HR enough to get the applicant an interview?
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5 Answers
Michael, the most critical pieces from my perspective are:
1. Write the resume for the position you want. Take the time to thoroughly review the job. Then, write a resume that "speaks to" the needs. Use the same words. For instance, if the employer wants a Software Engineer with background in flat panel displays (and you have the background), you would say "background in flat panel displays" and then go on to clarify what you have done. In other words, tell the reader (and the software which is vetting your qualifications), that you have what they need.
2. Make the resume readable. Consider each word you add to the resume. Is it really necessary? Don't make it a long resume, make it a clean resume that won't cause the person who has already read several hundred to set it aside because it's too busy.
3. Follow the instructions provided regarding how to present your resume to the employer. If the employer wants them emailed, not faxed or hand-delivered, email it.
A piece of white paper which tells me why I should forward this resume to the hiring manager is what I'm looking for. I'm not much on cover letters (or intros in emails), that go on about how they are interested in the job...but, when the simply state:
You Need I Have
I am ecstatic because it helps me in my decision making and makes me want to look at the content of the resume.
Michael
I agree with Iris and Kellie, resumes should be right to the point. Recruiters and HR look at key points like “accomplishments” if your resume is more than 2 pages your achievements could be overlooked. List your accomplishments in the beginning; for example if you are in Sales were do you rank, top 10% and year after year you are above quota. Employers especially in today’s economy are looking for top performers.
Remember average player produces average results!
In many fields (especially technology), I think resumes are becoming less relevant. Often a linkedin profile suffices.
I would concur with much of what Iris has said and add the caveat that every recipient will have a different 'style' they prefer...meaning that your question about preference for chronological versus functional or a hybrid is a difficult one to really answer. The other thing that I will add is that I do like to see a cover letter; however, it must be focused on why I should have any interest in your resume and shouldn't repeat what the resume says unless it is to possibly provide context or relativity to the position that you can't fully provide in the resume - as Iris states - keep the resume as clean as possible - and this is where the cover letter may be able to sell you.
Charlie, right on! Accomplishments are paramount when they are related to the position. Glad you added that.
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