Tailoring Your Resume

When you apply to jobs, are you submitting the same resume with each application? Most of us do it… after all, does making small changes to the wording really make that much of a difference? (Spoiler alert: yes, it does!) 

Studies have shown that recruiters spend an average of seven seconds looking at application materials before moving on. You could be well qualified for the role, but if your documents don’t reflect what they’re looking for in a short period of time you may not be considered. If they have to read your resume closely to understand the value you could bring them, it’s likely that you won’t get the chance to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.  

But fear not! This post offers tips and tricks for tailoring your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, making you stand out from the crowd and increasing your chance of being invited to interview. 

Before making any changes, be sure to “Save As” a new document! That way you retain your original resume for future applications. Once you have done that: 

• Read the job description closely. Like… really closely. What skills, experience, and attitudes seem most important? If you’re struggling to pick out the most important pieces, run the description through AI and ask what words or phrases come up most often. Then, check this list against your resume. Make sure those keywords are front and center! Have a similar word on your resume already? Swap it out for the exact one from the posting—trust me, it makes a difference. 
   

• Make important additions. Is there anything they’re looking for that isn’t on your resume? Remember, not every single thing you’ve done is outlined in your resume. Add relevant experience you have that didn’t make the cut for your original document, even if was a small piece of your previous job/ volunteer role/ education. Don’t wait for an interview to show them you’re a good fit!  
   
  Tip: When writing out tasks or responsibilities, it is easy to assume a passive voice. This makes you look like a “do-er” to the hiring team, when you want to be seen as an achiever. Be intentional about using active language that expresses the value you brought to each role, not just what you did in them. If you’re having a tough time, AI can be helpful once again—enter what you have written into your preferred platform and ask the software to re-write it using action-oriented language.  
   

• Think about transferrable skills. Are they looking for experience that you don’t have? Think through your work history for examples that show you have the skills, if not the exact experience. Maybe you have done work in another setting that has prepared you to step into this role. Highlight these aspects of previous experiences, focusing on skills over context. 
   
  While using quantitative figures is important, don’t forget about soft skills. For example: If you’re applying to a medical center receptionist position but don’t have experience in a clinical setting, highlight areas where you’ve demonstrated relevant skills like customer service, creative problem-solving, or independent motivation. These “soft skills” are the most important, as “hard skills” can be learned on the job! 
   

• Do one last read-through. Check your revised resume against the list of important keywords, skills, and competencies in the job posting. Every single bullet point on the list should now be reflected in your document with specific words, relevant experiences, and transferrable skills. 

Now that you’re prepared to tailor your resume to applications like a pro, read our next post to find out how to do the same with your cover letter! Tailoring your resume and cover letter to each position you’re applying for will ensure you stand out, and help you get one step closer to that new job. 

For more information on healthcare careers, professional development, and workplace tips, check out our other blog posts!