Writing a resume can be tough. The job market is highly competitive and not having the right information or format can decrease your chances of landing an interview. Hiring managers – or their ATS – know exactly what they’re looking for. But for job seekers, it can be difficult to balance what to include and what to leave out. Sometimes you think you have a strong resume, but it’s still not getting the results you hoped.
Here are four signs that your resume could use some more work:
- You’re being contacted for the wrong type of job.
If recruiters are pursuing you for positions that aren’t in line with what you’re applying for, your resume is sending the wrong message. This is especially true if you’re a mid-level professional and are being contacted for entry-level jobs. Re-evaluate the keywords you’re using, the accomplishments you have highlighted, and the way your summary positions you.
- You’re using the same resume for multiple types of jobs.
If you find five different jobs you’re interested in and quickly fire off the same resume for each one, that could be a red flag. By not tailoring your resume to each role – even if you’re only making small changes – you’re wasting your opportunity to make the strongest impression. You want employers to see why you’re a great fit right off the bat.
- You never hear back even when you’re a great fit for the position.
Reading through the job description, you’re mentally ticking off each box, confident you meet all of the criteria. However, after you send your resume, it’s radio silence. While you know that you can do the job and have the right background, does your resume do a good job of conveying that? Review your content and make sure that the key points employers are looking for are actually spelled out on your resume.
- The interviewer asks basic questions about your role or achievements.
You’ve landed an interview – success! But when the interviewer starts talking, they’re asking about what you did in your last role, if you have experience in a certain area, or what your accomplishments are. This is standard information that your resume should clearly present. If they’re confused by what you have or haven’t included, chances are other employers are as well. It’s time to review your content and make sure each bullet point is clear, concise, and sends the right message. It can be helpful to have someone else read your resume and then summarize it back to you.
If you’re not getting the results you’d like with your current resume, it’s time to take a fresh approach. The team at Grammar Chic can help you determine where your resume may be lacking or sending the wrong message, and then fix it up for you. Contact us at (803) 831-7444 or resumewriting@grammarchic.net to schedule a consultation.
