9 Ways to Make Your Resume Stand Out in 10 Seconds

In today's competitive job market, it's more important than ever to make your resume stand out from the rest. With employers spending an average of just 10 seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to move forward with a candidate, it's essential to make those first few seconds count. Here are some tips on how to make your resume stand out in just 10 seconds.

1. Tailor Your Resume to the Job

One of the most important things you can do to make your resume stand out is to tailor it to the specific job you're applying for. This means carefully reviewing the job posting and customizing your resume to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position. By doing this, you'll demonstrate that you have a clear understanding of the job requirements and show how you can contribute to the organization's goals.

2. Use a Clear and Concise Format

Your resume should be easy to read and navigate, with a clear and concise format that highlights your key qualifications. Use bullet points and headings to break up large blocks of text, and keep your font size and type consistent throughout. Avoid using too many colors or graphics, as this can be distracting and take away from the content of your resume.

3. Include Relevant Keywords

Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes before they even reach a human recruiter. To increase your chances of making it through this initial screening, include relevant keywords in your resume. These might include technical skills, certifications, or industry-specific terminology that are relevant to the job you're applying for.

4. Quantify Your Achievements

Employers want to see tangible evidence of your accomplishments, so include quantifiable achievements on your resume. This might include metrics such as revenue growth, cost savings, or increased productivity. Be specific and use numbers wherever possible, as this will make your achievements more impressive and memorable.

5. Show Your Impact

Employers want to see how you can make a difference in their organization, so make sure to highlight the impact you've had in previous roles. This might include successful projects you've led, positive feedback from clients or colleagues, or awards or recognition you've received. By demonstrating your ability to make a difference, you'll show that you're a valuable asset to any team.

6. Keep It Simple

While it's important to highlight your qualifications and achievements, it's also important to keep your resume simple and straightforward. Avoid using jargon or technical language that might be confusing to someone outside of your industry. Instead, use plain language that's easy to understand and focuses on the most important information.

7. Proofread Carefully

Nothing will turn off a potential employer faster than a resume that's riddled with typos and grammatical errors. Before submitting your resume, take the time to proofread it carefully. Read it aloud to catch any awkward phrasing, and ask a friend or family member to review it as well. A small mistake can make a big difference in the eyes of a recruiter, so make sure your resume is error-free.

8. Keep It Relevant

Your resume should be focused on the job you're applying for, so make sure to keep it relevant. Avoid including information that's not directly related to the position, such as hobbies or personal interests. Instead, use the limited space you have to highlight your qualifications and achievements that are most relevant to the job.

9. Highlight Your Unique Selling Proposition

What sets you apart from other candidates? Make sure to highlight your unique selling proposition on your resume. This might include specialized skills, unique experience, or a track record of success in a particular area. By highlighting what makes you stand out, you'll make a memorable impression on potential employers.

Written by Cassie Hatcher, CEO of Career Confidence LLC, a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), and Certified Veteran Career Strategist (CVCS) who translates military leadership experience to ensure your resume is on target for the civilian workforce.

For 10+ years, Career Confidence Resume Services has specialized in translating military experience into accomplishments-focused resumes. Our goal is to help military service members find their next mission with a resume that captures employers’ attention and highlights their unique military experience.

If you are a military service member, click here to get in contact with us.

We have a couple of great resources including a free quiz designed specifically for Military & Veterans to answer the question, What type of resume do I need?“

This quiz takes 5 minutes on average to complete.

If you already have a resume you can purchase a $50 in-depth resume review with a screen-recorded, comprehensive analysis from a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW).

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