How to Write a Resume in 2023

Now that we are well underway in this new year and into the second quarter, there is still much hope for our future. If a new job is one of them, drafting a timeless resume is key. Here are 5 tips to ensure your success.

1.) Make your resume ATS friendly

Most companies use an ATS (applicant tracking system) to sort through and rate candidates of interest. Using a resume that’s not geared toward the ATS can hurt your chances of being called for an interview (no matter how qualified you are). Be sure to avoid “pretty” resume templates –? and create a traditional resume that has plenty of white spacing with clear, concise information.

2.) Include a short strong summary that lists your top skills

Recruiters and hiring managers spend a whopping 7 seconds giving a resume a review before they decide if they want to read further or call you for an interview. As such, including a short 3-4 sentences summary that shows what you can do for the company based on your abilities and their needs including a list of 6-8 relevant skills right at the top provides the “cliff notes”, enticing those scanning your resume to want to learn more. Make sure that you customize this for each application.

3.) If you are out of work, there is no reason to provide a reason why

Let’s face it –we have been living in some challenging times for a while now. Although the unemployment rate is low, the tech and housing industries have already seen big layoffs with 168K+ Americans losing jobs. And there are other industries that could be at risk as well. No matter the reason you left your last position there is no need to address it on your resume (or LinkedIn profile). You can be sure that you will be asked why you left your position in the interview, so you can address it then briefly, and focus on highlighting what you can do for the company now, focusing on the positive.?

4.) Include a “Career Break” statement if needed

While most recruiters and hiring managers understand that it does take time to find a new job, including a job gap statement or a career break on your resume could be useful if your gap is more than 12 or more months depending on your level of authority. I recommend using a reason like LinkedIn provides in their career break feature, like caregiving, layoff, professional development, etc. And provide a brief statement of what you have been doing since you left your last job. If you can include any activities like upskilling or volunteering that utilized relevant skills, all the better.?

5.) Keep it under 3 pages

With the exception of higher-academic positions, 2-3 pages are more than acceptable for any standard resume. Limit your resume to the last 10-15 years of experience (20 tops) to draw attention to your most recent accomplishments and condense your history. Be sure to list your degrees and certifications as well, sans dates (unless completed within the last 3 years).

If you are having a difficult time creating a resume, my Perfect Resume Builder can help. With an ATS-friendly template, and tips and tricks to help you customize your resume with ease, my program has been proven effective by thousands of fully satisfied clients (and counting!) who have made it past the ATS and onto an in-person interview. What are you waiting for? Take time to invest in your future today!?