Top 3 Things Employers Look For In Resumes

After spending a few years in your current job, you suddenly realize you've been managing the same duties for the past two years. You haven't acquired new skills, taken on new responsibilities, and there's no opportunity for learning anything new for another year or two. Is this what you truly wanted?

You desire growth, to learn more, face new challenges, and gain additional experience!

When you get home, you open your laptop to review your CV and suddenly notice it still lists your old residential address, lacks updated work experience or training, and even has your outdated contact number. You quickly decide it's time to update your skills and work experience along with all other information. Does this situation sound familiar?

Your CV needs to be updated to impress employers. Hiring managers focus on the value you add as a candidate.

Here are three things employers will immediately notice when they read your resume:

1. A Professionally Formatted CV

Employers want to see how much time and effort you've invested in planning, preparing, and working on your CV. The appearance of your CV is crucial. The margins, spacing, paragraph alignments, text size, and font consistency are very important. Even word choice makes a difference. Spelling mistakes and grammatical errors reflect poorly on your effort. A professional photo instead of a visa or passport photo can enhance your profile's effectiveness. CVs longer than three pages (ideally two pages maximum) might be too lengthy. One-page job descriptions can be dull and overly detailed. Using a professionally formatted CV is essential when applying for jobs. Optimize your CV with the most relevant job "keywords".

2. Career Progression

Your CV must demonstrate career progression to stand out. Hiring managers will appreciate this more. It helps them understand why you're applying for the position and whether you're a good fit for the role.

A progressive career should emphasize your achievements over job responsibilities. Aim to identify at least two achievements per position and highlight them in your CV. Job titles help employers understand your current status and future potential.

3. Education

Alongside work experience, continuous learning, training, and courses are very important. If your last educational qualification was in 2010, it suggests you don't prioritize education, because if you did, you'd make time even in the busiest schedules. Saying "I didn't find time because I work 24/7" means little and indicates poor time management skills. Continuously updating your education every two years is essential, even if it means sacrificing some sleep.

Include links to your personal domain or online portfolio, Twitter handle, and a link to your LinkedIn profile. This makes it easier for employers to see how you contribute to your industry and have established a professional online presence.

Most hiring managers will process this information in less than 20 seconds. By following these tips, you'll address the fundamental elements of a standout resume that will positively capture employers' attention.