What do Employers Look for in A Resume?


Recently I applied for a job where there were over 800 applicants.Anyone who believes that a prospective employer has time to peruse that many job applications and resumes is kidding themselves. Sure, you may spend hours and hours on job application writing
and labouring over your resume, trying to make sure it is spot-on. But, at the end of the day, there are certain things you must get right, if you want your employer to give your job application and resume a second look. So, what are the keys to resume writing that make sure it isn’t thrown in the reject pile? How can you make your resume stand out? What do employers even look for in a resume? Here are our top tips.

Employers want an easy-to-read resume

If you’ve got 800 resumes to look at, then finding one that is easy-to-read is a breath of fresh air.  So, your resume should be written in a reasonably-sized, legible font with normal-sized margins.  Don’t make the mistake of making your text too small to try to cram more onto the page.  This also applies to job application writing including cover letters and selection criteria. Use an easy to read format and include dot points to make it stand out.

Employers want a resume they can scan

 When writing your resume, lay-out and formatting are also super important.  Given that most employers will merely peruse your work, looking for key words, job titles and major facts that show you are a good fit for the position, it needs to be laid out well.  

Employers hate basic errors

 Making basic errors in spelling, grammar and punctuation decreases your credibility, especially when applying for professional positions.  It is the easiest thing to avoid, but the most common to neglect.  Get a second opinion before your submit your resume and job application! 

Employers want relevant information, not your life story

 While you might think giving a detailed overview of your entire work history is the way to go, focus instead on the skills, experiences and qualifications that are relevant to the position you are applying for.  Your Bachelor of Marine Biology might be interesting, but it’s not going to help you land the accountancy position you’re after. Make sure that most relevant accomplishments, the ones that readily translate to the job you want, are most visible.  One more thing, resume writing is an art and needs some creativity.  It’s best not to submit the same resume for different jobs.  Each resume should be tailored to make it specific to the position.  Once again this applies to selection criteria writing, cover letter writing and the overall job application process.

Employers don’t dig bragging  

 Employers really don’t expect you to already be an expert in every facet of the position you are applying for so don’t make the mistake of over-inflating your skills.  According to an August 2014 CareerBuilder study of about 2,000 hiring managers, 57% of respondents said the most common lie they catch on a resume is an embellished skill set.  To avoid seeming like you’re over stating your skills and achievements, include real examples of where you have demonstrated a skill in your previous job history.  This is a part of the job application writing process and especially comes into play when addressing selection criteria.

 If you need help nailing your resume, then consider getting some professional help.  Red Tape Busters are specialists in resume writing and can help you produce a resume, cover letter and/or selection criteria that gets noticed. In fact, Red Tape Busters can complete the entire job application writing process ensuring everything is consistent. Visit http://www.redtapebusters.com/  for more information. Red Tape Busters are also specialists in providing the following services:

Contact us today! Please also “friend” or “like” us on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/RedTapeBustersShaneBowering, follow us on Twitter – Red Tape Busters or check us out on YouTube just search for Red Tape Busters.  



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