As you gear up for a job search, your resume serves as your first impression to potential employers. A well-crafted resume can make all the difference in landing an interview. Here are some best practices to help you create a standout resume:

1. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job

One size does not fit all. Customize your resume for each position by highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. Use keywords from the job listing to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

I ended up with about five different resumes that were each tiered towards different subsections of the industry I was applying for. For example, I’m an engineer and had a version for field service roles, sales positions, project management openings, etc. I labeled each with a brief keyword to keep track of it, which made it easier to pull up and rename before submitting it to the companies. (Always double check you’re uploading the correct version.)

2. Choose the Right Format & Headers

On average, a given resume is looked at for 6 to 10 seconds during their initial review, so it’s important to put extra effort into choosing the best format to showcase your potential clearly. Aim for a one-page resume, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience. If you have extensive experience, two pages are acceptable, but make every word count. Be succinct and avoid unnecessary jargon. 

Opt for a clean, professional format. The reverse-chronological format is the most common, as it emphasizes your work history. Ensure that your resume is easy to read with clear headings, bullet points, and consistent font styles (Times New Roman or Arial or my top choices). For headers, include the following sections to break down your candidacy:

Summary

Start with a strong summary statement that encapsulates your qualifications, experience, and what you bring to the table. This section should quickly grab the reader’s attention and make them want to learn more about you. This is also an area that’s comparably easy to modify across applications to better fit the role.
Work Experience

Instead of simply listing your job responsibilities, focus on your accomplishments. Use quantifiable metrics where possible, such as “Increased sales by 30% in one year” or “Managed a team of five to successfully complete a project ahead of schedule.” This demonstrates the impact you’ve made in previous roles.

Relevant Skills

List both hard and soft skills that are pertinent to the position. Hard skills might include specific software proficiency, while soft skills could involve communication or leadership abilities. Be sure to back these up with examples in your experience section.

Education/Certifications

If you’ve achieved a degree or noteworthy certifications relevant to the role you’re applying for, include those as well.

Contact Info

Make it easy for employers to reach you by clearly listing your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile at the top of your resume. I customized my linkedin URL to make it look cleaner.

3. Proofread and Edit

Nothing detracts from a resume like typos and grammatical errors. Carefully proofread your document and consider asking a friend or mentor to review it for clarity and accuracy. A polished resume reflects attention to detail.

I actually sent mine to my siblings that have been in the workforce longer than me for additional perspective and got feedback from my parents, as well.

If you’re interested in seeing how I formatted mine, here’s a screenshot of the final product (blocked out details for privacy):

By following these best practices, you'll create a resume that effectively showcases your qualifications and helps you stand out in a competitive job market.By adhering to these optimal practices, you will craft a resume that not only effectively highlights your qualifications but also positions you as a standout candidate in the competitive job market. Best of luck!