What is the Hiring Manger Actually Looking for On Your Resume?

Not long ago, it was a candidate’s market with your choice of employment opportunities. However, in recent times, employers are tightening their belts and more discerning about the people they bring on board. How can you stand out and get noticed in a sea of other candidates and the fierce competition that comes with them? Future Force, one of Miami’s leading office staffing agencies, has the answers. Here’s a look at what to include on your resume:

Details about your past positions.

You’ll need to include your past roles and responsibilities, while also customizing them around each employer you apply with. This simply involves thinking through what’s most relevant to a potential job and making it front and center in your Work History.

The right level of experience.

Don’t apply for positions that require 10 years of experience when you only have two. Hiring managers will automatically screen you out. Instead, focus on those positions that are a fit for you in terms of experience and make it clear that you have the right amount for the job.

Hard and soft skills.

Hiring managers want to know you have the technical abilities to perform a role successfully. It’s therefore important to include all the skills that are pertinent to the position, as well as those soft skills that will make you a strong cultural fit.

Results you’ve achieved.

In addition to listing your roles and talking about experience, make sure you’re highlighting a track record of success. Hiring managers want to see results as much as possible. You can showcase yours by talking about past accomplishments and achievements, whether it’s meeting an annual sales goal, winning an award, or bringing a project to fruition.

A relevant degree.

If the position you’re applying for requires a degree, hiring managers will expect to see the college you went to, the degree you earned and when you graduated. If you’re a new graduate, it also makes sense to include relevant coursework, as well as any independent study projects and internships.

A simple format.

Ultimately, your resume should be easy to read. It should use the right size font – nothing smaller than 10 points – have one-inch margins, and make use of bullet points. Your goal is to make the document a persuasive read, yet one that’s easy to scan. Hiring managers only tend to spend a few seconds on each resume until moving to the next one. So make yours as reader-friendly and compelling as possible.

Consistency across your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile.

If there are any discrepancies, it will raise concerns among hiring managers. They’ll wonder if you made a mistake or aren’t being honest. It’s why before you send in a resume, it’s critical that you edit and proofread it carefully, as well as make sure your cover letter and LinkedIn profile are both aligned with it.

Interested in getting more help in finding your next job?

Turn to Future Force. As one of the area’s leading office staffing agencies, we know the employers who are hiring and can help you get your foot in the door with them. During the process, we’ll work with you to polish your resume, improve your interview skills, and make the best impression possible, so you land the job you want. Ready to learn more? Search our jobs or contact us today.

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