Style Matters!
What’s the final word on the best resume formats to find a job? I spent an entire week writing and re-writing my resume to show off more of my skills and ability to inspire results out of workplace challenges with specific details and previous accomplishments. I thought I had really put together something unique that would help to make me stand out to managers but after 2 dozen applications sent with no response I’m at a loss. Then I see a post on here referencing a LinkedIn article explaining on only 2% of all online applications are ever contacted and the need to have a keyword oriented resume for best results against the Auto Tracking System. So, which one is it? Is a skill/result based resume format better than a Keyword Specific resume?
Stick to a basic chronological resume format without the fancy bells and whistles. Focus on skills and accomplishments to stand out from the rest of the applicant pool.
Structure your resume to match what’s on the job description.Copy and paste if necessary. That’s the only way you're going to get it noticed.
Online applications are the worst. Not only time consuming but applications sent always end up in someone's recycle bin or fall into the black hole. I don’t think resume formatting makes any difference. Your application is still going to get lost in translation.
I have tried so many different styles of resumes. The one that I got most hits on was the most simplest one. I have my name large at the top. Under my name is my email address phone, phone number and linkedin address. Then I have my summary or objective. Then I have my education. Then I stared listing my experience with dates and location. After that I have my relevant skills and last I have my licences/certifications listed. If you need help let me know. I write a lot of resume and have been thru a few classes.