When it comes to your resume, doing your research and tailoring it for the role is key. What the hiring manager at a well-established Fortune 500 business is looking for is not necessarily the same as what the hiring manager at a startup business is looking for. They have different cultures and objectives.
A startup business is often more strategic in selecting employees than a big business. After all, they are just starting out and looking for a candidate that can help drive the company to success. They tend to have leaner operations and employees may wear many hats at first until things become more established and they can grow the team. So how do you wow the hiring manager with your resume and show that you have what it takes to become the newest hire at a startup?
Highlight Your Well-Rounded Experience
Have you worked for some notable companies in the industry? Have you risen through the ranks and taken on positions of increasing responsibility? Let the hiring manager see that. Show that you have a diverse range of skills and know what it takes to be part of a successful organization. But also show that you have an entrepreneurial spirit and can come up with fresh ideas to move the business forward.
One way to show your breadth of knowledge is to include experience outside of work that uses your skills in a variety of ways. This could include volunteering, coaching your child’s team, or helping with a community program or non-profit. Express your multitude of skills and ability to adapt to different environments.
Demonstrate Accomplishments
Like any employer, startups want to see accomplishments. They want to know that you can get the job done and make a positive impact. Include metrics when possible to quantify your achievements. If you don’t have exact numbers, explain how you made a difference using verbs such as increased, reduced, generated, eliminated, or improved. Include examples of how you solved problems or developed creative solutions as well; when things go wrong, you’re flexible and still get results.
Build an Online Presence
Having a resume isn’t enough. Create a LinkedIn profile and start connecting with peers and leaders in the industry. Share relevant articles by others or that you have written. Develop an online portfolio that has examples of your work. Get involved in conversations about aspects of your career that you are passionate about. You want a potential employer to see that you are engaged and up-to-date with current knowledge and trends. This also gives them more opportunities to learn about who you are and what you value.
Zero in on Keywords
Do your research and get to know the company and its mission. Determine what is most important in the role and highlight these keywords or phrases on your resume. Show a potential employer right off the bat that you are a strong match for what they are looking for – don’t make them guess as to why you’d be a good fit or are applying in the first place. Also, try to show your potential and how you can elevate the business to the next level through your experience and training.
Are you ready to tackle a position at a startup business? The team at Grammar Chic can help you to spruce up your resume and emphasize what employers are looking for in their next hire. Contact us today at (803) 831-7444 or resumewriting@grammarchic.net to get started and have a resume that presents you in a positive light.
