Process published — nice work
What you do next determines whether this becomes real training. Pick one:
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0 of 5 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Use a simple ATS-friendly template
Step 1: Use a simple ATS-friendly template
Applicant Tracking Systems parse text. Fancy designs with graphics/columns fail parsing. Single-column, standard fonts.
Single-column, Calibri/Arial 11pt, black text
Boring = parseable. Save fancy design for the cover letter (if anyone asks).
Google Docs resume templates (free)
Built-in templates pass ATS. Free.
2 Step 2: One page (unless 10+ years experience)
Step 2: One page (unless 10+ years experience)
Recruiters spend 6 seconds. More than one page = important stuff buried. Senior people (10+ yrs) can use 2 pages.
Cut to one page ruthlessly
Internships from 10 years ago, hobbies, references. Cut.
Senior (10+ yrs): max 2 pages
Still tight. Most should fit on 1.
3 Step 3: Write XYZ-formula bullet points
Step 3: Write XYZ-formula bullet points
Accomplished X by doing Y resulting in Z. Specific numbers and outcomes. 'Increased sales' vs 'Increased Q4 sales 22% by launching tiered loyalty program.'
Format: Verb + accomplishment + metric
'Reduced bug count 40% by implementing automated testing pipeline.'
Lead with strong verbs
Built, shipped, increased, reduced, designed. Not 'responsible for'.
Quantify when possible
Numbers stand out: %, $, # of people, time saved.
4 Step 4: Tailor to each job (keywords)
Step 4: Tailor to each job (keywords)
ATS scans for keywords from the job posting. Mirror language from posting in your resume. Generic resumes get filtered.
Copy job posting keywords into resume
Same exact phrases when applicable. Helps ATS scoring.
Use jobscan.co to compare
Pastes resume + job posting, scores keyword match. Free for first scan.
5 Step 5: Have someone else proofread
Step 5: Have someone else proofread
You won't catch your own typos. A typo on a resume is a hard reject for many recruiters. A second pair of eyes finds them.
Friend or partner proofread
Not your fellow job-seeker — they have your blind spots.
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