Tailoring Your Resume for a Position
Sending out the same generic resume for every position you’re applying for is no longer an acceptable practice. If you want to capture the attention of the hiring manager, you’re going to need to go the extra mile to prove you have what it takes to be considered for the position.
Here are some tips on how to effectively tailor your resume to fit each and every job you set your sights on.
Carefully Read the Job Description
No two job postings are alike. You could be applying for a position with the exact same title at two different companies and need completely different resumes to capture the attention of the hiring manager. It’s important to carefully read and reread the posting, so you know exactly what they’re looking for in the ideal candidate. The more you know about the job, the better equipped you’ll be to tailor your resume to fit the exact needs of the company.
Take note of any keywords that are used frequently throughout the posting and both the minimum required skills and those listed as “nice to haves.” You’ll use this information later on.
List Your Qualifications
Take notes while you’re reading the job description. When an accomplishment, skill or experience you have is mentioned, write it down. This may include things like previous jobs, volunteer work, positions held at a professional organization, projects completed, internships, extracurricular activities, relevant hobbies and more. Don’t leave any applicable information out that can tell the hiring manager more about your fit for the job and increase your chances of being invited in for an interview.
Study the Company’s Website
Take your research a step further by visiting the company’s website and reading their “About Us” page. Many organizations go into great detail about their company culture, organizational philosophy and vision for the future on their website. Learn more about what it’s like to work for the organization and what their expectations are for employees. Just as you did in the job description, take note of any commonly used keywords, so you can work them into your resume.
Connect the Dots
Now that you know exactly what the hiring manager is looking for, it’s time to consult your list of qualifications and keywords to tailor your resume into something sure to make you stand out from the crowd. Match up your information to what is noted in the job description and omit any irrelevant qualifications. Many companies use keyword scanners and automatically disqualify any resumes without a high enough percentage, so include as many as possible without making it sound unnatural.
It definitely takes more time to tailor your resume for each position you apply to, but it’s well worth the effort. Hiring managers can easily tell the difference between a resume that’s been customized for the specific position and a generic one that could be applicable to any job in the behavioral health field. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you find your next behavioral health position, contact us today at (513) 651-9500 or by email at [email protected].