Resumé Writing Tips for a Recession
1. Tailor Your Resumé to Each Job Application
Generic resumés are less likely to catch the attention of hiring managers. Take the time to tailor your resumé to each specific job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position and use keywords from the job description. Don’t just use a tool like chat GPT to create your resume, everyone is doing that, go ahead and try to invest in a better tool such as resumebuilder.com, or a good idea that’s cheaper than most people think, hire a freelancer to create your resume or help you see what you can’t see in terms of your unique selling points, a lot of the times we as people are blindsided to our own best traits, it’s a good idea to invest $20-$30 on a tool or a freelancer.
2. Quantify Your Achievements
Instead of simply listing your responsibilities, quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use metrics and numbers to demonstrate the value you can bring to a company. For example, instead of saying “Increased sales,” say “Increased sales by 20% through effective marketing campaigns.” even though you are not in sales, always try to show how you increased your past employment income, remember businesses are in the business of making money, even if you worked on something like security or IT, always think of ways you helped make (or save) your old company money.
3. Showcase Your Transferable Skills
If you lack direct experience, show your transferable skills that can help in the new job. Communication is a key skill that’s always in demand. Consider taking a Udemy course to improve your communication skills.
4. Highlight Your Problem-Solving Abilities
In a recession, employers are often looking for candidates who can problem-solve and think creatively. Showcase your ability to overcome challenges and find solutions. In the interview don’t be afraid to ask about some “pain points” the business has and offer some solutions, just this will put you above 90% of people that interview and just go with the flow.
5. Emphasize Your Adaptability
Demonstrate your ability to adapt to change and thrive in a dynamic environment. Highlight experiences where you successfully navigated a difficult situation or learned new skills quickly. you know those annoying questions these recruiters ask you? you can also pivot these questions and just answer them yourself, the questions are going to come anyway, so make sure to show you are adaptable through things you did in your past jobs.
6. Keep It Concise
Hiring managers often have limited time to review resumés. Keep your resumé concise and focused on the most relevant information. Aim for one to two pages. a pro tip is to have several versions of your resumes to see which ones employees like more, send 10 of version A then send 10 of version b and see what the best one is in terms of companies getting back to you.
7. Proofread Carefully
Typos and grammatical errors can make a negative impression. Proofread your resumé carefully and consider having someone else review it as well.
8. Tailor Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job. Personalize your cover letter for each application and address the specific needs of the company. For help with cover letters, visit our Interview Preparation in Tough Times page.
9. Network Aggressively
Networking is essential in a competitive job market. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and reach out to your network. Let people know you’re actively seeking a job. Every time i hear this tip, I cringe. it’s hard to find a network that can push you, that being said if you start solving problems for people, your professional network will grow. You can also try a group networking event such as BNI
10. Be Persistent
Job hunting can be a long and frustrating process. Stay persistent and don’t give up. Keep applying for jobs and networking with professionals in your field. Take a break if you need to, remember to always track the jobs sent, and your network, and if possible keep a journal to make sure you don’t repeat the same mistakes such as saying the wrong things in an interview or working with the wrong kind of company.