How to Update Your Resume in Simple Ways That Make an Impression

You need new content on your CV but you’re not sure how to organize it all? Learn how to update your resume in 30 minutes or less.

Did you know that 40% of hiring managers spend less than 60 seconds reading a candidate’s resume?

If you can’t seem to get a callback for an interview, the issue may be your resume. Knowing how to update your resume may be the single most important part of the job-hunting process.

Keep reading to find out how you can make your resume stand out.

Use a Template

Often, the toughest part of updating a resume isn’t choosing which information to include or which skills to list first. It’s basic formatting.

Finding the proper format for your resume can make all the difference. A well-formatted resume looks clear, concise, and organized.

Instead of driving yourself crazy coming up with the proper spacing and font options, make life easier for yourself and use a resume format template instead. There are multiple formats to choose from, so you can choose the best-looking option for the job.

Use Keywords

Do you ever feel like your resume never even makes it to the hiring manager? As it turns out, it doesn’t.

In a time-saving measure, many recruiters and businesses leverage the power of artificial intelligence in the initial round of resume selection.

Companies program their AI to look for certain keywords and phrases associated with the position. These can include ideal skills, experience level, and even certain resume formats.

That means that you could have a fantastic resume, but if you’re not using the right words or phrases, it won’t even matter!

That’s why it’s important to include relevant keywords in your resume. Ideally, these keywords should match those used in the job description.

Keep It Short

Hiring managers have a difficult job. Aside from creating job postings and updating applicant tracking systems, it’s up to them to get through resume after resume.

The average job opening brings in 250 unique resumes. Put yourself in their shoes for a moment: Who has that kind of time?

You can give your resume an advantage by keeping it short, simple, and to the point. Make it as pithy as possible by using bullet points instead of paragraphs and keeping your resume to about one page in length.

Ditch Outdated Info

Maybe you already have a great-looking resume that you’re sure will blow the socks off of recruiters. But before you send it out, make sure all the information you’ve included is accurate and up to date.

Start with your contact information. If you’ve moved, changed phone numbers, or switched email addresses, your resume should feature the newest info.

The same goes for job experience. Include your most recent experience first, as it’s the most relevant experience to recruiters.

Final Thoughts on How to Update Your Resume

Let’s face it, no one likes updating their resume. But all in all, it doesn’t have to be a difficult experience.

Now that you know how to update your resume, it’s time to put these tips into practice and chase your dream job. You’ve got this!

And don’t forget to check back with our blog for more helpful info.