As a recruiter, I look at a lot of resumes, like hundreds per week. And trust me, the ones that stand out aren’t necessarily the fanciest or most colorful. They’re the ones that are clear, relevant, and get straight to the point. If you’re putting your resume together and wondering what actually matters to an employer, here are a few tips that can help you rise to the top of the pile:

1. Tailor Every Resume to the Role

A one-size-fits-all resume doesn’t work anymore! Candidates should customize each resume for the specific job they’re applying to, using the same language and keywords found in the job posting. It’s also important to highlight the most relevant experience first, ensuring the top of the resume captures immediate attention. Recruiters and some applicant tracking systems (ATS) are scanning for direct matches, so tailoring a resume shows preparation and a genuine interest in the position.

2. Leverage Strategic Keywords

Many companies use ATS to sort through resumes before a real person looks at them. That’s why using the right keywords can make or break your chances of getting noticed. If the job post says they’re looking for someone with “excellent communication skills,” make sure that phrase shows up somewhere in your resume – if it applies to you, of course. Try to match the wording in the job requirements and even include the job title if it fits. It helps your resume get picked up by the ATS system and puts you one step closer to an interview.

3. Highlight Required Skills

If the job posting lists skills you already have, make sure to find a natural way to include them in your resume. Not a lot of job experience? That’s fine, chances are you’ve picked up relevant skills from other areas of your life. Have you played or coached a sport? That’s communication, teamwork, and leadership right there. Worked a part-time job or volunteered? You’ve built customer service, adaptability, and a solid work ethic. Don’t underestimate how much your high school and real-world experiences can translate into valuable workplace skills!

4. Keep It Clean…and One Page

Unless the candidate has over ten years of experience, a one-page resume is best. Focus on the most relevant roles, bullet points instead of paragraphs, professional fonts, clean spacing, and no fluff; get right to the point! Recruiters spend 6–10 seconds scanning a resume. Make those seconds count. Unless a company explicitly requires a cover letter, it’s okay to skip it. Recruiters typically focus on the resume first and may not read a cover letter unless the candidate is a top contender. Instead, include a short “objective statement” at the top of your resume. This is a great way to quickly tell employers what kind of role you’re looking for and what you bring to the table. Keep it brief, just a sentence or two that highlights your goals and a few key strengths.

Final Thoughts

A great resume is no longer just a history of employment; it’s a personal pitch.  A strong resume should match the job, highlight relevant achievements, be easy to scan, include the right keywords, and stay concise and focused. By sticking to these best practices, candidates increase their chances of getting past applicant tracking systems, making a positive impression on hiring managers, and ultimately landing interviews. You’ve got this!