Learning how to make your resume stand out can mean the difference between landing a job or getting passed over. Most human reviewers spend less than six seconds glancing at a resume before deciding to put it in the keep or discard piles. Employers using artificial intelligence (AI) to scan resumes have even stricter requirements for getting past the first round. Using a professional resume format designed to catch the eye of AI and humans can improve the odds. 

Professional resume writers know effective techniques to get resumes at the top of the stack for call-backs. Here are five insider tips to help resumes shine.

Tip #1 – Use a professional resume format

Formatting matters. Any professional resume writing service that says otherwise can cost job seekers the professional positions they desire. Top Quality Resumes recommends using an organized and logical structure. A format that works well includes placing pertinent information in this order:

•  Title, a summary paragraph, and core competencies. Titles should either describe the candidate’s background and goal or networking purpose. An example would be “Operations Executive” for networking and “Director of Operations” for job aspirations. The summary paragraph is arguably the most important part of a resume. It is front and center, so it must detail specific achievements to draw the attention of hiring managers. Never use phrases like “excellent communicator” or “results-driven.” Many job candidates use those generic terms, which does nothing to help their resume attract attention. Core competencies should target keywords from the job listing. Companies using Applicant Tracking Systems likely have plugged those keywords into the software program, training the AI to select resumes that include them.
• Professional experience and selected achievements. Knowing how much to include in this section is key to success. Each position must provide an overview of core functions, followed by key accomplishments. Include only essential supporting details. Otherwise, the resume becomes packed with information and difficult to scan. Candidates always can expand on their additional details during an interview. 
• Education, certification, and other professional credentials. This information is important but not top of the fold critical. Keep it brief and only highlight credentials relevant to landing the job. 

Tip #2 – Resist writing a novel

A resume is not meant to be a life story. Knowing what to keep off a resume is just as important as knowing what to put on it. Most professional resume writers and professional resume writing services know how to direct clients to keep their resumes short yet relevant. Remember that most human resume reviewers give just six seconds of their time before deciding on a resume. Reduce the noise to help them find the applicable details quickly. On a final note about length, candidates never should go beyond two full pages when following a professional resume format. Likewise, if they lack enough pertinent information to fill at least half of a second page, then the resume details should be reduced to one page only. 

Tip #3 – Write in first person

Resumes are business documents. As such, they must be written as a first-person narrative. Writing in the first person allows candidates to easily highlight their employability while demonstrating professionalism. There is a caveat with this rule. Never use first-person pronouns like I, we, our, and ourselves. Also avoid frequent usage of articles (a, an, the) throughout the resume. A technique called first-person implied allows professional resume writers to leave out the pronouns and articles. 

Tip #4 – Check spelling and grammar

This piece of advice should go without saying, but some candidates get in a big hurry and fail to proofread their work. Poor spelling and grammar speak volumes about a candidate. Candidates reveal their lack of attention to detail when they fail to spot numerous errors in their resumes before sending them to hiring managers. It also goes to effort and motivation. 

Tip #5 – Update (or create) a LinkedIn profile

Using a professional resume format and adhering to the other guidelines mentioned boosts a candidate’s chances of hiring when paired with a stellar LinkedIn profile. Professional networking sites have become crucial components of any successful job hunt. Job seekers who take the time to create a comprehensive LinkedIn profile have a 71 percent call-back rate among employers than those who have no LinkedIn profile or one that is bare-bones. 

A final word on stand-out resumes

Effective resumes go hand in hand with well-written cover letters. Candidates that want to boost their chances in the marketplace can work with a professional resume writing service to ensure their cover letters and resumes make the grade. 

Andy Ricardo is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer and Founder of Top Quality Resumes, an elite provider of résumé, LinkedIn profile, and cover letter writing services leading to rapid employment. For more information, please visit www.TopQualityResumes.com.