Writing a Resume That Employers Will Want to Read

Landing your next job starts with a resume that grabs attention and showcases your best self. So how should resume a look to impress both potential employers?

ATS: The First Hurdle

• What’s an ATS? Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is software used by many companies to filter resumes before they even reach a real person.

• Beat the Bots: An ATS-friendly resume uses clear formatting, relevant keywords, and avoids fancy design elements:

• Simple fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)

• Standard headings (Name, Contact Info, Experience, Skills)

• Avoid tables, graphics, or multiple columns

Professional Summary: Your 10-Second Elevator Pitch

• Keep It Short: Use 2–3 impactful sentences showcasing your most relevant skills and experience.

• Tailor It: Align the summary with the keywords from the job description.

Skill Power: Match and Measure

• The Right Keywords: Match the skills mentioned in the job description to prove you’re a good fit.

• Show, Don’t Tell: Quantify achievements with numbers when possible (e.g., “Increased social media engagement by 25%”).

• Versatility Matters: Include a mix of technical skills and in-demand soft skills (communication, problem-solving).

Work Experience: It’s Not Just What You Did

• Highlight Accomplishments: Focus on results, not just duties. Instead of “Managed social media accounts,” try “Led social media strategy resulting in a 15% increase in followers for [client name].”

• Quantify: Numbers add credibility and make your skills tangible.

No response after sending hundreds of resumes

Tailor YourResume: One Size Does NOT Fit All

• Job Description is Key: Your resume should change slightly for each job you apply for, highlighting the skills they emphasize.

• Remove the Irrelevant: That summer job from college might not be relevant for your current goal. Keep it focused.

Key Takeaway: “How should resume look like?”

A winning resume strikes a balance between:

• Clean, ATS-friendly formatting

• Brief but impactful summary

• Targeted skills section

• Results-oriented work experience

• Customizing each resume submission

A professional resume writer like the ones at kantanhq.com can write a resume for you to ensure you have all the right components to land more interviews.