Top Tips for a Job-Winning Resume

Customize your resume for every application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific job description. Using keywords from the job post will help your free resume get past automated screening systems (ATS).

Start bullet points with strong action verbs. Instead of saying "Responsible for managing social media," say "Managed social media accounts, increasing engagement by 25% over six months." Quantifying your accomplishments with numbers makes them more impactful on any resume.

Hiring managers spend only a few seconds scanning each resume. Keep your resume to one page if possible (two for very experienced professionals). Use a clean, professional font and plenty of white space to make it easy to skim. Our online resume builder's templates help with formatting.

Typos and grammatical errors can be a deal-breaker. Read your resume multiple times, use a spell checker, and consider asking a friend to review it for you. A flawless resume downloaded as a PDF shows professionalism and attention to detail.

Start with a 2-3 sentence summary that highlights your key qualifications and career goals. This is your 'elevator pitch' to grab the recruiter's attention immediately and make them want to read more.

Instead of just listing your job duties, focus on what you achieved. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your bullet points. For example, "Increased sales by 20% in one quarter by implementing a new marketing strategy."

Create a clear and concise skills section that lists your most relevant technical and soft skills. This makes it easy for recruiters to see at a glance if you have the qualifications they are looking for.

While not always necessary on the resume itself, be sure your cover letter or email includes a call to action. End by stating your interest and suggesting the next step, such as an interview or a call.