How to write a resume that gets interviews.

The basics

What goes on a strong resume

Recruiters often decide in a few seconds whether to keep reading, so every section has a job to do. Here is what belongs on your resume, in this order.

The biggest upgrade

Show results, not just duties

The most common mistake we see is a resume that lists responsibilities. Hiring managers already know what the job involves. What they want to know is how well you did it. For each role, ask yourself what changed because you were there, and use numbers wherever you can.

Applicant tracking systems

Make sure software can read it

Most employers use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to collect and search resumes before a person ever sees them. A resume that looks great to you can come through as scrambled text if the layout confuses the software.

• Use standard section headings like Professional Summary, Work Experience and Education.
• Keep the layout simple. Avoid text boxes, tables, graphics and columns for important information, and never put your contact details only in the header or footer.
• Choose a common font such as Calibri, Arial or Garamond, at 10 to 12 points.
• Mirror the job posting honestly. If the posting says "project management" and you do that work, use those exact words.
• Spell out acronyms once, for example "Certified Public Accountant (CPA)," so you match either search.
• Send the file type they ask for. A Word document is the safest choice when the posting does not say.

One resume, many jobs

Tailor it for every application

You do not need a brand new resume for each job, but you should adjust your master version each time. Reread the posting, note the skills and requirements that come up more than once, and make sure your headline, summary and top bullets speak to them. Move the most relevant achievements to the top of each role and trim details that do not support this particular job.

Aim for one page if you have less than about ten years of experience and two pages if you have more. Go into the most detail on your recent roles and keep older positions brief.

Before you hit send

Resume checklist

• Your headline matches the job title you are applying for
• Your summary is three to five sentences, with no "I" or "my"
• Your skills match the keywords in the job posting
• Every role has results, not just responsibilities
• Dates use one consistent format, such as 08/22 – Present
• Contact details sit in the body of the page, not only in the header
• The layout is clean, with no tables, text boxes or graphics
• It fits on one or two pages
• Spelling and grammar are checked, then checked again by someone else
• The file name is clear, such as FirstName-LastName-Resume.docx

Common mistakes

What to leave off

• A photo, date of birth or marital status (in the US)
• An "Objective" statement about what you want, instead of a summary of what you offer
• Buzzwords with no proof, like "results-driven team player"
• "References available upon request"
• Every job you have ever had, when the early ones do not support your goal
• An unprofessional email address

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