Avoid the Resume Black Hole: 5 Tricks That Work

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Here’s what our certified career pros cover:

Why Is My Resume Ending Up in the “Black Hole”?

Resumes often get automatically rejected when applicant tracking systems (ATSs) filter them out. How does an applicant tracking system work? These platforms scan for specific keywords to streamline candidate selection. Ensuring your resume is ATS-friendly can significantly improve your chances of moving past initial screenings and getting an interview.

Tip 1: Use an ATS-Friendly Format

Avoid placing contact information in headers or graphics, as ATS cannot read these elements. Use clear sections, standard fonts like Arial or Verdana, and a mix of paragraphs and bullet points. Ensuring your formatting is correct is the first step toward optimizing your resume.

Tip 2: Tailor Your Resume for Every Application

Personalization is key; no more “one size fits all” resumes! By aligning your resume with job descriptions, using specific keywords for skills and responsibilities, and adjusting the document’s structure, you get past the ATS and grab the hiring manager’s attention.

Tip 3: Always Include Skills on Your Resume

With a solid skills section, your resume appeals to both ATS platforms and humans. Include a blend of technical, industry-specific, and soft skills. Demonstrate these skills through your career achievements, using specific examples to underscore your capabilities.

Tip 4: Always Include Achievements on Your Resume

Achievements highlighted with metrics set you apart from others. Where possible, use quantifiable accomplishments to portray your impact. Bullet points and bold text can also help emphasize these achievements, making them more impactful and easier to read.

Tip 5: Keep Your Resume Short, Sweet & Skimmable

A concise resume – one or two pages – focuses on the most important information first. Avoid clutter with fancy fonts or distracting colors, and instead use subtle design elements. Remove or trim down details for older positions and focus on your most recent and impactful experience.

Staying out of the resume black hole involves a careful blend of ATS optimization, good resume formatting, and a clear presentation of your relevant skills and achievements. The goal is to craft a resume that stands out, aligns with the job, and ultimately boosts your interview prospects!

Explore our Resource Center for additional resume tips, tricks, and templates.

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