3 Tips To Get Your Resume In The 'Yes' Pile

Learn How To Get Around The Applicant Tracking System

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Many companies today are using Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software to read and rank resumes. This makes it particularly difficult for today's job seekers because it means they have to get past the software before a human reviews the resume.

First, you need to know the rules for writing ATS-compliant resumes. A lot of it comes down to making sure your resume is structured properly and having the proper keywords in your resume.

Another way to get around the ATS is to be very targeted during the job search. If you have a "bucket list" of companies that you want to work for, you should be tracking them and networking with the people at the company before a job opening is even posted. That way, you already have an established relationship with people at those companies, and may even get referrals from them when a job is posted.

Catch Their Attention In 6 Seconds

A resume isn't one-size-fits-all!

You may possess many skill sets that make you an outstanding employee, but if you're not highlighting the right skill sets that make you an ideal candidate for the particular job that you're applying to, then it's all for not.

Recruiters don't have time to go through every resume line by line, so they're skimming through them looking for key skill sets. If they see what they're looking for, they'll give your resume a closer look. That's why it's important to make your resume can catch a recruiter's attention in six seconds.

You can do this by listing the key skill sets that you possess that qualify you for the job at the very top of your resume. You should continue to use these keywords throughout your resume as you quantify them in your work history and additional skills.

Show Proof Statements

Your work history is where you have PROOF statements that show you have delivered the results you indicated. Make sure your accomplishments are bulleted. Remember that hiring managers scan your resume for six seconds. You want to use bullets only for those statements you absolutely want them to read.

Example:

• Delivered over $1.5M in savings and increased customer satisfaction by increasing productivity 12%, reducing waste 23% and raising quality 14%.

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This post was originally published at an earlier date.