Resume Tips: Making Yours Stand Out

30 AUG 2017

We share five tips from our recruiters for helping your resume stand out:

1) Do Your Research
Research the job you want by going to career websites and reading descriptions for that role. Write down the key qualities and credentials that are listed for the position, and figure out ways that you might fit those requirements. Come up with three reasons why you would (or should) be picked to interview for the job—these will be some of the top traits you’ll want to emphasize in your resume.

2) Choose the Right Format
How your resume is organized reflects how potential employers will see you, so it’s important to use the right format to express your skills and background in a clear, concise way. Arrange your resume with your educational information at the top (i.e., the school you are attending, your majors and minors, your expected degree and graduation date), followed by your grade-point average, internships or professional experience you’ve accumulated, and any special interests and activities.

3) Emphasize What (and How) You’ve Learned
If you’re still in school, you likely have limited work experience to detail on your resume. Instead, have your resume focus on your education and the things you’ve done outside the classroom. Were you on the dean’s list? Did you graduate with honors? Were you active in campus organizations or the local community? Were you involved in athletics? Include any extracurricular activities you participated in, especially if they involved leadership skills, and list any and all awards you’ve won. These will help demonstrate your determination and ability to thrive in a team – which are valuable skills in any company.

4) Show How You’re Unique
Call attention to your distinct qualities and interests. Do you play a musical instrument? Are you fluent in another language? Do you volunteer? Have you studied abroad? Companies want to get a sense of how you can contribute as a new hire, so it’s important to highlight your individuality.

5) Proofread, Proofread, Proofread
A typo or grammatical mistake can hurt your chances of being seriously considered for a position, even if you’ve got the right skills and background. Carefully proofread your resume and have friends, family members, and advisors read it over as well to make sure no errors have slipped by. Doing so will reflect your attention to detail and professionalism.
 

RELATED LINKS:

Edith Cooper, Global Head of Human Capital Management, talks with Business Insider about what Goldman Sachs looks for in a resume.