How to Make Sure a Recruiter reads your Resume

These days, every job you apply to is likely to have a unique internal process for accepting and reviewing resumes. This can vary depending on the size of the company, the number of staff devoted to the hiring process, and the personal preferences of recruiters and hiring managers.

Some businesses keep their review process completely human-centric; others rely entirely on applicant tracking systems (ATS) to sort their resumes, and others might use a combined practice. 

We suggest you cover all bases in your application. The first hurdle is ATS, which can play a key role in the hiring process. If this is the case, your resume may never make it to a recruiter’s desk - unless it meets the right requirements. 

You will need to tailor your application to the job, inserting keywords and phrases that appear in the job posting into your resume and cover letter.

When your resume checks all the right boxes for the company’s ATS, it is given a high rating. This means it may be screened for next steps - right to the recruiter or hiring manager’s inbox.

So never forget your goal - you need to write a resume that connects with the human recruiter - not just the ATS robot!

Clarity: Make sure your resume is easy to read. Two pages (max) of concise writing, clear headings, and consistent format.

Include what the company wants: If certain skills or tasks are mentioned repeatedly in the job posting, it means it’s particularly important to the recruiter. Be sure to emphasize those items in your resume.

Double check the tiny details: Check file names, introductions and salutations in cover letters, and any email correspondence to ensure you’re using the correct people names, company names, and titles.

Make their job easy: Never forget that recruiters have a job to do. Most recruiters have certain numbers of qualified candidates they’re required to send to the hiring manager, and timelines they need to meet. When you submit a resume that was carefully tailored to the job description and meets their requirements, they’ll be excited to move you forward in the process because it also makes them look good too.

Don’t hesitate to visit our Virtual Resource Room at Calgary Career Hub for current and valuable information on all topics related to job search. Check out all 10 relevant categories.