9 Ways to Write a Resume That Lands Dream Interviews

How can I use storytelling to make my resume stand out?

Storytelling in a resume is an art of showcasing your accomplishments and experiences in a compelling and engaging way.

• Highlight the Impact: Focus on describing the impact of your actions rather than just listing responsibilities. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For instance, instead of writing “Managed social media accounts,” you could say, “Increased social media engagement by 25%, resulting in a 15% boost in sales leads.”
• Use Active Voice and Strong Verbs: Employ active voice and strong action verbs to make your resume dynamic and engaging. For example, instead of “Assisted in project management,” try “Led the development and implementation of a project that reduced operational costs by 20%.”
• Provide Context: Set the stage by providing context for your accomplishments. Explain the challenges you faced and the steps you took to overcome them. This helps employers understand the complexity of your work and your problem-solving abilities.

What are the best ways to quantify my accomplishments on a resume?

Quantifying your accomplishments adds credibility and tangibility to your resume.

• Use Numbers and Metrics: Whenever possible, use specific numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For instance, instead of “Improved customer satisfaction,” you could say, “Increased customer satisfaction by 15%, as measured by NPS (Net Promoter Score).”
• Highlight Results and Outcomes: Focus on quantifying the results and outcomes of your actions. For example, instead of “Managed a team of software engineers,” you could say, “Led a team of software engineers that developed and launched a new product, resulting in a 30% increase in revenue.”
• Use Percentages and Ratios: Percentages and ratios can be effective ways to convey the magnitude of your accomplishments. For example, instead of “Reduced operating expenses,” you could say, “Reduced operating expenses by 10%, resulting in a $500,000 annual cost savings.”

How can I write a cover letter that complements my resume effectively?

A well-written cover letter is a crucial complement to your resume.

• Tailor Your Letter to the Job: Each cover letter should be customized to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position and the company.
• Showcase Your Enthusiasm: Express your genuine interest in the company and the role. Explain why you’re excited about the opportunity and how your qualifications align with the company’s needs.
• Expand on Your Resume: Use the cover letter to provide additional details about your accomplishments and experiences. Expand on key points from your resume and provide context that may not have been included due to space constraints.
• Call to Action: End your cover letter with a strong call to action. Invite the hiring manager to schedule an interview or contact you for further discussion.

What strategies can I use to follow up with potential employers after submitting my resume?

Following up after submitting your resume shows your continued interest in the position and helps keep your application top-of-mind.

• Thank-You Note: Send a brief thank-you note to the hiring manager within 24 hours of submitting your resume. Express your appreciation for their time and consideration.
• Follow-Up Email: If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, send a follow-up email. Reiterate your interest in the position and inquire about the status of your application.
• Phone Call: If you’re comfortable, consider making a phone call to the hiring manager or recruiter to follow up. Be brief and respectful, and reiterate your interest and qualifications for the role.
• Additional Materials: If you have any additional materials that could strengthen your application, such as a portfolio or writing samples, offer to provide them to the hiring manager.

How long should my resume be?

The ideal resume length is typically one page for entry-level candidates and two pages for experienced professionals. However, some exceptions may apply depending on your industry and experience level.

Should I include a photo on my resume?

Including a photo on your resume is generally not recommended in professional settings. It can be seen as outdated and may introduce potential biases. Instead, focus on highlighting your skills, experiences, and accomplishments.