One of the most important facets of the job search is submitting a resume that matches job ads to which you apply. Many job seekers freeze at the thought of continuously modifying their documents based on job postings; it simply seems too time consuming and not worth the effort. However, if you choose not to, you may miss valuable job opportunities. Rather than pulling your hair out while trying to rework every sentence in your resume, here are some fairly easy and quick ways to customize your resume:
- Incorporate what we call a “modern job objective” at the top of your resume. This is simply the target job title from the job posting. Doing so lets the prospective employer know exactly which position you are targeting and where you belong in the organization.
- Tweak your professional summary based on the core concepts in the job advertisement. After reviewing a specific job ad, try to pick three main concepts or requirements and incorporate similar language into your professional summary. This shows, early in your resume, that you have taken into consideration and match the prospective employer’s expectations.
- Develop and include a strong list of “core competencies.” Review the job ad to identify specific keywords and phrases applicable to the job, field, and industry. Pick 10 to 12 of these to include in a brief, bulleted list on your resume. Avoid “soft” words and phrases, like “good listener”; instead, stick to more concrete, actionable terms, depending on the job. Integrating this list of keywords and phrases into your document helps when your resume is passed through an electronic applicant-tracking system (ATS).
- Swap the order of your bulleted achievements under each position, depending on the wants and needs outlined in the job posting. If the prospective employer emphasizes saving money, then be sure to highlight and move these concepts up in rank within your resume. Make it easy for the reader to quickly identify your applicable accomplishments.
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