Have you recently graduated, lost your job, or started searching for a new opportunity? You’ll need an up to date, professional resume that appeals to potential employers. While the basics of resume writing aren’t complex, standing out requires more than simply filling in a template.
In this article, you’ll find tips for creating a resume that will help you get past the initial screening and move you close to an interview.
Research Resume Examples in Your Industry
One of the best ways to improve your resume is to research examples of resumes from your target industry. (Never copy resume samples; use them as inspiration.) Pay attention to these key elements:
- Simplicity and readability. Employers often review dozens, if not hundreds, of resumes. A clean, easy-to-read format makes a strong first impression. Choose a professional font and layout that enhances clarity rather than distracts.
- Concise content. Your resume is an introduction, not a full biography. Keep sections concise and focused, highlighting only the most relevant information.
- Measurable achievements. Employers value candidates who can demonstrate results. Whenever possible, include metrics such as sales growth, efficiency improvements, or project outcomes to showcase your impact.
Identify Keywords Within the Job Listing
Before updating your resume, look carefully at the job listing. Identify keywords and incorporate them naturally into your resume. This not only shows attention to detail but also helps your resume align with applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring expectations.
Use a Clean, Professional Format
Avoid overly decorative fonts or designs. Instead, use standard fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri (10-12 pt) for a polished look.
Balance is key. Too much text creates a dense, overwhelming document – while too much whitespace can make your resume appear thin or incomplete
If needed, add sections like Achievements, Awards, or Skills to strengthen your content.
Prioritize Relevant Information
Hiring managers typically scan resumes quickly, so relevance is critical. Focus on:
- Recent and applicable experience
- Key skills related to the role
- Achievements that demonstrate value
Older or less relevant details can be shortened or removed. Place your most important qualifications near the top to immediately capture the hiring manager’s attention.
Use Strong, Active Language
Replace passive or vague phrases with clear, action-oriented language. For example, “Responsible for managing” is better than “Managed”. “Helped improve” is better than “Improved”.
Incorporate power verbs like achieved, led, developed, implemented, and delivered to make your contributions more impactful.
Customize Sections to Fit Your Experience
Not every resume needs the same structure. Adapt sections based on your background.
For example, use either a summary or an objective—not both. If you lack professional experience, highlight education, internships, coursework, or extracurricular activities. Combine sections when necessary to avoid unnecessary gaps or repetition.
Highlight Key Achievements
Instead of listing job duties, focus on 2-4 key accomplishments per role. Whenever possible, include any numbers measuring success for specific achievements or goals. You can also use a dedicated Skills or Achievements section to highlight critical achievements from your education, work, or volunteer experience.
Optimize Layout and Spacing
Use 1-inch margins and consistent line spacing (1.0-1.15 is ideal). Adjust spacing slightly if needed but avoid excessive gaps or overcrowding. A well-structured layout makes your resume easier to scan and more visually appealing.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Role
Before applying, ask yourself: Does this resume clearly show I’m a strong fit for this specific role?
Customizing your resume ensures employers can quickly see your relevant qualifications, especially for positions with unique or technical requirements.
Proofread Thoroughly
Errors can undermine even the strongest resume. Before submitting, be sure to proofread it multiple times. Lean on tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to help spot errors. You can also ask a trusted colleague, friend, or mentor to review it. A fresh set of eyes can often catch mistakes you may have missed.
Final Thoughts
Creating a resume may seem straightforward, but crafting one that grabs attention and communicates value effectively takes practice. By applying these tips, you can develop a resume that stands out, reflects your strengths, and increases your chances of landing an interview.