Are you someone who is struggling to write your own resume and LinkedIn profile?
Or perhaps cannot find the time and place to learn best practices in resume and LinkedIn writing.
They say it takes just 6-7 seconds for a recruiter to skim your profile. Then decide if it’s the delete button to return your document to the big black resume hole, never to be seen again – or if your document is put aside for a closer look a bit later.
A robot will probably read your resume before a human does
With the big volumes of CVs and Resumes that executive search firms, recruitment companies, and even Corporate HR departments handle nowadays, these companies are most likely using an ATS software to automate the screening. ATS is an Applicant Tracking System.
ATS is a stupid software application that scans, parses, and populates resumes and other job recruitment documents for relevant keywords. Say, your skills, job titles, and educational background.
To pass the ATS scan, your resume must be formatted properly, and include the right words. If you want to get to the interviewing stage, you must make your resume ATS-friendly.
- Use an ATS-compliant template
- Add the right keywords
- Make it a great read for the actual human recruiter
Frustrating and disheartening not to get any job interviews
W
hen you’re not getting any job interviews, it can be disheartening and frustrating.
Without a job interview, there is no job offer and consequently no job. Period.
You need to take a step back before you can take two steps forward. Make sure that your resume and LinkedIn profile are in sync with 650-750 words in a two-page resume and about half of that in your LinkedIn profile.
However, there are several steps you can take to improve your chances and increase your prospects. Here’s what you can do:
Review your resume: Ensure that your resume is well-structured, error-free, and tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that match the requirements of the positions you’re targeting. Consider seeking feedback from professionals or career advisors to enhance your resume.
Expand your job search: Consider widening your job search parameters. Look for opportunities in different industries, companies, or geographic locations. Sometimes, being flexible and open to new possibilities can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Networking: Networking is an invaluable tool for job seekers. Reach out to your professional network, attend industry events, join online communities, and engage with professionals in your field of interest. Networking can provide you with insider information about job openings and increase your chances of being referred or recommended for a position.
Upskill or acquire new certifications: Take advantage of the time you have between job applications to enhance your skills or obtain relevant certifications. Identify areas where you feel you could benefit from additional training and pursue online courses, workshops, or certifications to bolster your qualifications and make your resume stand out.
Practice interview skills: Preparation is key to performing well in interviews. Research common interview questions, practice your responses, and conduct mock interviews with friends or family members. Focus on highlighting your strengths, experiences, and how you can add value to the organization.
Seek feedback: If possible, reach out to employers or recruiters for feedback on your applications. Constructive criticism can help you identify any areas for improvement, whether it’s your resume, cover letter, or interview skills.
Consider volunteering or internships: While job searching, consider taking on volunteer work or internships in your field of interest. This can provide you with valuable experience, help you build a network, and enhance your resume.
Seek professional help: If you’re consistently struggling to secure interviews, it might be beneficial to seek guidance from a professional career counselor or resume/LinkedIn writer. They can offer personalized advice, review your application materials, and provide industry-specific insights.
Stay positive and persistent: Job searching can be a lengthy process, and it’s important to remain positive and persistent. Rejections are common, but don’t let them discourage you. Use them as learning experiences and keep refining your approach.
Resume and LinkedIn writing service by Tom Sorensen
You will not be surprised when I claim to have seen more resumes and LinkedIn profiles than most people have. After all, I have been in executive search for exactly 20 years.
I follow passionately what is best practice in layout, algorithms, keywords, resume versus CV. You name it. Read more about our resume and LinkedIn writing service here.
Get my eBook Your Career & Branding for Executives – from our website or amazon.com, download here.
Here are five previous blogs on the subject:
- 7 tips for your resume that headhunters just love
- 5 tips to help older job seekers age-proof their resumes
- Your CV is too long
- How to give your resume a makeover
- 25 things to never put on your resume
Testimonials what candidates think of our resume/LinkedIn service
I followed your advice to turn around my resume from infographic to original style, also update my LinkedIn. Now I got a job, a good one. I would like to thank you for your great advice.
Finance, Tax & Internal Control Manager, Thailand
I changed my resume as suggested. Got an interview next week. You’re amazing.
Managing Director, Thailand
Wow! You’ve done a really nice job on this resume. I’m very impressed. It really “pops”. I like the way you’ve re-written the profile, used color to highlight the Section Headings, and condensed the previous employments. You are amazing. Thanks so much for all your valuable input and support.
C-suite executive, Southeast Asia
