How to make your resume stand out?

How to make your resume stand out?

Imagine spending hours reviewing hundreds of applications, many of which come from people with irrelevant experience, drawn in by a high compensation range. While their optimism is commendable, it’s not going to land them a job as a lawyer at a top U.S. law firm or in-house position paying hundreds of thousands per year. A lack of relevant education and experience is a significant barrier.

This is why I always advise my candidates to ensure their resume stands out. Recently, several candidates have asked for my help, and I give them this crucial piece of advice: make sure your resume is clear and punchy. According to the Ladders Eye Study, the average recruiter spends just 6-7.4 seconds looking at a resume. So, how do you capture a recruiter’s attention?

Here are my tips:

Keep it concise: Highlight key transactions or responsibilities and use a separate deal sheet or document to expand on details. Bullet points help maintain focus and clarity.

Keep it relevant: Emphasize the last 10 years of your experience or roles directly related to the position you’re applying for.

Use a professional font: Stick to standard fonts like Calibri, Times New Roman, Arial, or Aptos.

Tailor it to the role: As I often say, recruiters are like matchmakers. They want to see a clear alignment between what their clients are looking for and what your resume offers.

Your resume should aim to make a swift, compelling impression. To achieve this, ensure it is brief, easy to follow, and consistent in both layout and tone. Instead of merely listing duties, emphasize your achievements and the value you've delivered.