My Resume is too long! Help!

The old rule used to be to keep your resume to less than 2 pages. While that has become less critical, it is still true that the average resume will only be reviewed for 10 seconds or less before it is either moved forward or cast aside. In fact, with AI, if you don't make it by the electronic screener, a hiring manager may never even see your background. If you don't want to end up in the circular file - here is some easy advice to give you the edge.

Aim in the right direction - tailor your resume to the hiring manager audience. Many of us have more than one skill set or have functioned successfully in more than one role or industry. If you try the "one resume fits all" approach, your resume will be too long and you will lose the focus of your hiring manager. Create multiple resumes easily tailored to the job titles or industries you are targeting and provide details relevant to the position you applied to or you won't make it to the next step.

KISS - Keep It Simple Stupid - because even the most complex AI can be stupid, it is critical that you put the KEY WORDS in the top 1/3 of your resume. Either a summary or objective paragraph that includes the words that your hiring manager used to define the position. Also, avoid using titles or acronyms specific to your company or role.

Numbers count- When listing accomplishments be sure to include measurable metrics that provide value to your potential hiring manager (changes resulted in savings of $300K per year, reduced scrap by 14%).

Bottom line-is to make it easy for the AI Screener or HR reviewer to make the match and pass your resume along to the hiring manager. The hiring manager should be able to quickly see enough relevant success on your resume to want to bring you in and discuss your background.

Review - have someone in your network review your resume. Encourage them to provide feedback and do the same for others who are looking.

Remember- the resume doesn't get you the job - it is only intended to get you into the interview. Once you are in the interview stage, you can elaborate on your background and share additional information to highlight your potential in the role.

For more information on resumes, interviewing, etc. see our www.Pin-Pointsolutions.com web page.