Are you applying for jobs or simply sending out resumes?

Yes, there is a difference! Creating one resume and sending it out multiple times with the click of a button may seem efficient but it is not as effective as taking the time to customize your application for each job posting. Quality wins over quantity.

When you send out your resume and plaster it all over the Internet, you are narrowing yourself to one profile and potentially only one type of job. By taking the time to match your resume to an actual job posting, you have a much higher chance of getting a phone call.

A typical job posting will receive 200 to 1,000 resumes so it’s important to do whatever you can to increase your chances of being selected for an interview. Follow these four steps to quickly target your resume before applying for a job.

1. Use Keywords

Do you know who is receiving and reading your resume? It is most likely not a person but an ATS system, which scans resumes to capture matching keywords. If your resume matches the job description by approximately 80%, it is more likely to move on to the next phase. These online “resume selection” systems rely heavily on matching keywords and have no ability to judge work experience or relevant education.

Always customize or target your resume according to the keywords used in the job posting. And use the exact job title as listed in the posting.

2. Match Qualifications

Before applying, make sure that your qualifications meet the job requirements and include them in your resume. If they aren’t at least a 90% match, take a pass on applying and keep looking. Employers ask for certain qualifications for a reason and your resume won’t get far if you don’t meet those expectations.

3. Stand Out

Include bold statements, in both your resume and cover letter, when mentioning your accomplishments. Let employers know why you are the perfect missing piece to their puzzle.

4. Speak Their language

Both your resume and cover letter should reflect the same tone as the job posting, which reflects the tone and culture of the company. Research the company so that your resume can speak from that perspective. Review mission statements and company values and try to integrate them into your resume as well.

For more on resume writing, check out our Webinar Series here.