Employers use your resume to learn more about you—to decide if they want to interview you.

Grab their attention! 

From our experience, here are some tips that will help you write a resumé that gets noticed.

Tips for Writing an Eye-Catching Resume

1. Take Inventory – List all the jobs you have held. Describe what you did well, and what you did not do so well. What are your key skills? Your education and other credentials? Now describe one or two significant accomplishments. What things made you stand out? Be detailed. You will come back later and decide what information to use.

2. Take Contact Information – Include your name, mailing address, telephone number, email address (hyperlinked), and your LinkedIn page (hyperlinked) if applicable.

3. Customize – Tailor to the particular position you are applying for (if you really want it).

• Professional Summary – Highlight, in 3 to 5 sentences, why you are an excellent fit for this organization and position. Think of this as a written version of your “elevator speech.”
• Keywords – Throughout your resume, include keywords that are found in the job posting. Pay particular attention to language in the requirements and qualifications sections.

4. Targeted Layout

• Reverse Chronological Format – Begin with your most recent position and work backwards 7 to 10 years (further if relevant).
• Most Important Information – Put this first. Hiring managers spend only 6 seconds scanning a resumé. Your most relevant info should be at the top [of each section] of your resumé.
• Quantify – When possible, add numerical facts.
• Headings – Use headings and sub-headings to make your resumé more easily scanned.
• Readable and Printable – Use a contemporary 11 or 12 point font. Include white space to clear clutter and lessen density. Assume your resumé will be printed.

5. Keep It Short…and Crystal Clear – Sentences of 7 to 12 words are best. Consider bullet points that get your main message across without a close read. Avoid repetition. Limit your resumé to 1 or 2 pages.

6. Action Verbs – Begin each sentence or bullet with a strong, active verb (e.g., launched, influenced, initiated).

7. Proofread Carefully – Make sure there are no spelling or punctuation mistakes. Ensure a logical flow of thought. Then have someone else proofread it, too.

Your resumé demonstrates the quality of work you will do. Make sure your resumé reflects how amazing you truly are!