How to Get Your Resume to the Top of the Stack

And Other Job Hunting Tips From the Pros

As the saying goes, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” That’s especially true when you submit your resume for a job. After all, be it on paper or online, resume is your one and only shot at scoring an interview.

Our recruiters share their inside tips for getting your resume noticed.

Resume Do’s

• Check and double-check your contact information. “It sounds straightforward, but we get resumes with wrong or disconnected phone numbers and wrong email addresses all the time,” says Recruiter Lisa Thorson.
• Get another set of eyes. Proof, proof and proof some more. Typos will put your resume on the fast-track to the bottom of the stack.
• Use key words. Know the buzz words that will get your talents and skills recognized and use them in your resume. Many companies use software that searches for specific key words to sift through applicants.
• Customize your resume. Make sure it showcases your strengths as they relate to what the company is looking for. In other words, create multiple versions, if needed.
• Highlight your successes. Use statistics whenever you can. For example, if you improved your company’s turnover rate by 10%, say it. “In the interview, be prepared to discuss what steps you took to achieve these goals and/or metrics,” advises Recruiter Michelle Shortle.
• Keep it short. A resume longer than two pages is too long.
• List academic details. Include all degrees and certifications. “If you have a college degree, you don’t need to include your high school education,” Lisa says.
• Don’t skimp on the details. If you list only jobs and employment dates, chances are your resume will end up in the circular file.
• Pass on the personal details. No pictures of kids, dogs or spouses, please. And leave off your age, too.
• Stay silent on salary. Don’t include your salary unless the company specifically requests it.
• Keep it positive. Focus on your strengths and skills. 

Tips for Applying Online

• Finish the job. If the company asks you to submit both an application and a resume, resist the temptation to type “See resume” on the application. Complete the entire document.
• Play it safe. Save and upload your resume as PDF to ensure it loads correctly in the company’s software system. If you format your resume with different layouts or margins, something might get lost in translation.
• Check it twice. If you upload the document to auto fill the application, remember to proofread the entire application before clicking “Submit.” “Review your application one last time to avoid errors such as having your name appear as ‘First Name Kansas City Last Name,’ which happens more often than you might think,” Lisa shares.

Learn more about working at North Kansas City Hospital, and search our open jobs.

Happy job hunting!