Every job search starts with the same task: updating your resume.

But not every job seeker tackles that task the same way!

Some job seekers know the secrets to making an outstanding resume. One that will help open doors to new and exciting opportunities.

And today, we’re spilling the tea! Here are 5 secrets to writing a really great resume!

1. Use keywords generously

Keywords are the most important words related to the job.

And the best place to find keywords for the job you’re applying for is in the job posting itself!

Look for descriptive terms in the job description. What adjectives and power words are being thrown around? Are there any buzzwords that are used repeatedly?

Once you have the vocabulary down, it’s time to incorporate it into your resume! The more keywords you include, the more relevant your resume will be — and the more impressive it will seem to recruiters.

2. Make it skimmable

On average, a recruiter will spend 6-7 seconds reading a single resume.

They may have hundreds of applications to go through, so unfortunately they may not be able to give each resume the attention it deserves.

This means that you need to make the information on your resume very easy to digest. 

There are a couple ways to make your resume more readable, including:

• Bullet points
• Keeping sentences short
• Putting your most relevant information at the top
• Organizing your information with clear headers and smart font choices

Try showing your resume to someone else for just ten seconds, and then ask them what they remember most!

3. Start with the most important info

Just like you are reading this article from top to bottom, recruiters typically work their way down a resume.

And since they might not have the time to make it through the whole thing, it’s important that you put your most important info at the top!

Typically, you will put your value statement/summary statement first, then your work experience, then skills and education afterwards. But it depends on what is most relevant to the position for which you are applying.

For example, if you are applying for a senior level position which requires years of on-the-job experience, then you probably won’t list your degree first. But you MIGHT put your education at the top if you are applying for a position intended for recent graduates.

4. Use numbers instead of words, when you can

Not only are statistics easier to understand than general statements, they also act as evidence of your skills.

So instead of telling them that you were an excellent salesperson at your last job, tell them about your 6 figure sales figures and how you hit 117% of your quota on average.

You need to quantify your best qualities, so that recruiters can understand just how valuable you are!

5. Avoid the passive voice

The active voice sounds much more confident and assertive than the passive voice.

For example:

Active voice

I led a team of 14 employees

Passive voice

14 employees were led by me

The difference is whether the verb is being applied to the subject or object of the phrase. In the case of your resume, YOU are the subject, and you should be the one performing the action/verb.

By using the active voice instead of the passive voice, you are able to connect yourself more strongly to the actions you took.

And by choosing relevant verbs, you can also connect those keywords we mentioned earlier! 

For instance, if the job description was for “A very organized office manager in a delivery-focused workplace”, you could include phrases like “I organized…”, “I managed…”, or “I delivered…”.

Conclusion

When it comes to job seeking advice, we’re not very good at keeping secrets…

But now you know 5 new secrets to successful resume writing!