Employee Insights Volume 22
Have you ever wondered why some people get job offers without even applying, while others send out tons of resumes and don’t even get a response? The secret isn’t just applying, it’s making recruiters interested in speaking with you, and todays Masterclass Monday shows you how!
The truth is, close to 75% of resumes are never considered by recruiters or ATS systems. Recruiters and HR professionals have a limited amount of time to source and screen for resumes so chances are that if you don’t have a compelling resume, you will be screened out, not in. Realistically, your resume has no more than 60 seconds to catch the attention of a recruiter and that’s IF the ATS or Resume Database didn’t add your resume to the search results.
As you can see, there are hurdles in the way but it’s also apparent that there are “Best Practices” you can incorporate on your next search to add your resume to the top of that search! Today’s Masterclass Monday gives you the Top 8 tips to make sure your resume doesn’t get passe on.
Use relevant Keywords
Search the Job Description for technical keywords you can add to your resume such as similar machinery or software you’ve used, parts, materials, equipment, tools, etc.
Be explicit! If the job description says, “project management” don’t just say, “oversaw projects”.Include a Skills section
Keep it objective. Add technical skills, certifications, software, tools, and job functions.
This helps for easy scanning of your resume and helps search algorithms send your resume to the top of the search.Use bullet points for easy reading
Write out full thoughts and sentences explaining what you do.
Don’t just write out “forklift”, but rather, operate a sit down forklift to pick orders and prepare them for shipping.Avoid overused buzzwords
These words have lost almost all meaning in the recruitment space. “Hardworking, active listener, team player, results driven”, etc.
Instead, focus on measurable results you can proudly share.Use standard Job titles
If your current title is “Line Technician 2” referring to being in the maintenance department, change it “Maintenance Mechanic 2” so recruiters can find you easier. While “Sandwich Artist” may sound cooler than “Crew member” it wont help your resume get any more views if they cant find you.
Add numbers
If you are in a call center, it is more effective to say you handled upwards of “100+ calls per day” than just saying you answered customer calls. Companies care about your level of capacity. If relevant to your job, add KPI’s and OEE’s and any other percentages of how you positively affected your team.
Ditch the Generic Objective Statement
Instead of the generic “Looking for a company where I can use my skills to help the company…”.
Instead, write a powerful summary of your skills and achievements in 2-3 sentences. It is more relevant and won’t get skipped as the generic version.
Turn on your “Open to Work” on LinkedIn
Use LinkedIn’s private setting to let recruiters see you’re in the job market without alerting your employer.
The best tip for having a recruiter help you with your search is to connect with a FLAG recruiter! We are known for our dedication and professionalism in helping candidates like you throughout every step in the way. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain, call us today!