Strong action verbs and impactful keywords, tailored to the specific job description, enhance a resume’s effectiveness. For example, instead of “responsible for,” one might use “managed,” “led,” or “oversaw.” Quantifiable achievements, incorporating metrics and data, further strengthen the impact. Rather than stating “improved sales,” a more effective phrase would be “increased sales by 15% in Q2 2024.”
A well-crafted resume employs this strategy to quickly grab the recruiter’s attention and demonstrate relevant skills and experience. In today’s competitive job market, applicant tracking systems (ATS) often scan resumes for specific terminology before a human even views them. Using relevant terminology pertinent to the industry and position significantly increases the likelihood of a resume passing this initial screening. This practice has evolved alongside technological advancements in recruitment, becoming increasingly crucial for candidates to stand out.