subject: 3 Things that Make a Resume Stand Out [print this page] Having a powerful resume that presents you honestly and effectively is THE best way to shorten the duration of your job search. What traits are shared by the cream of the crop? In working with 1200+ clients spanning all major industries, as well as regularly coordinating with recruiters and hiring managers, I have boiled it down to these 3 elements your resume MUST have to be seriously considered:
1) A CLEARLY IDENTIFIED TARGET
Don't make the mistake of thinking simply inserting your entire work history onto 1-2 pages constitutes a resume. What type of position are you seeking? Analyze job postings to determine this. Now create a 3-4 line opening paragraph DEMONSTRATING in-demand skills. For example, a candidate for a Project Manager role could focus on his/her ability to effectively manage cross-functional teams, utilizing leading-edge technologies, and rapidly resolve issues. This provides CONTEXT and encourages close analysis of your work history. Expert tip: Be sure those skills mentioned in the resume opening are demonstrated within your work history.
2) CAREER PROGRESSION
Analyze the work history portion of your resume: does it show a multitude of responsibilities, or are the same things repeated from position to position? Recruiters and hiring managers respond well to versatility in a candidate. Even if you've held variations of the same position for several years, FOCUS on different aspects when listing them to make yourself come across more well-rounded.
3) DEMONSTRABLE SUCCESSES
Nothing carries more weight with potential employers than real-world successes. Every position you've held within the past 10-12 years should contain a "Key Accomplishments" section or similar listing these. Examples could be completing a major project ahead of schedule, establishing a new client relationship, or effectively training/guiding staff.
