6 Important Things Hiring Managers Look For in a Resume

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6 Important Things Hiring Managers Look For in a Resume

Over the years, I have talked with countless hiring managers, human resource directors and managers. While each industry may be looking for different specific information, there are some common trends that every job seeker should be aware of when preparing a resume. Here are the top 6 things that Hiring Managers will be looking for in your resume.

1. Powerful Opening. Studies have shown that employers will focus on the top portion of the first page of a resume before deciding if they want to continue reading. Therefore, burying key information lower on your resume may mean that it never even gets read. Opening your resume with a powerful (and brief) professional summary and list of key skills will engage the reader while showcasing why you are qualified for the position.
2. Significant tangible positive impact. It may seem like employers want to get to know you from your resume, but mainly they just want to know how hiring you will benefit them. That may sound cold, but it’s just the nature of business. That means it is imperative to demonstrate how your skills and experiences will directly benefit your potential employer’s company.
3. Initiative. Do you wait for someone to tell you how to solve a problem and what to do next? Or do you take initiative to proactively identify and resolve issues before they arise? If you answered the latter, then employers will be interested in you. After all, they pay you to deliver quality results while they are busy with other responsibilities. Make sure your resume reflects your initiative.
4. Keyword Usage. Keywords usage has become a hot topic in resume writing these days. Employers are hiring you for specific reasons with specific goals in mind. Do your best to utilize the job description and your knowledge of the company to highlight how your skills align with their needs.
5. Targeted Information. As much as possible, steer your accomplishments and previous responsibilities to match what you will potentially be doing in this new position. That makes it easy for employers to visualize you succeeding in your new role.
6. Easy-to-Read Professional Layout. Like books, resumes are often judged by their “cover”. That is, an employer’s first impression is determined by how inviting and well-formatted your resume appears. If they like the layout, they are more likely to like the content as well.

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