My Recruiting Blog

Due to the popularity of applying for jobs online, current job seekers can expect for their resume to pass through some type of recruitment software before it's ever considered by a human.

According to Human Resources Leader, 90 percent of the top 500 employers in America were using recruiting software by 2004. While recruiting software uses keyword algorithms to identify candidates with the right skills and experience for a position, tech-savvy job seekers can tailor their resumes to be more attractive to this type of software.

In order to help all job seekers get recognized by recruitment software, CIO.com produced a list of 10 tips for standing out:

1. Apply for jobs you're qualified for - Even though it's tempting to apply for any job you can find, keep in mind that competition is high and employers are being more selective. If you apply for positions that match your skills and qualifications, your resume is more likely to get through recruitment software.
2. Know what keywords to include in your resume and cover letter - You can look through every job posting related to your chosen profession in order to see what types of skills employers are seeking. The most common terms should be strategically placed in your resume and cover letter.
3. Learn how to strategically place keywords in your resume and cover letter - Recruitment software uses keyword-matching algorithms, so your resume will be more likely to make the cut if it includes the keywords the software wants to see. Keywords should be added in a logical section of your resume, such as one titled "strengths."
4. Vary your terminology - Even though most current recruitment software is capable of recognizing that variations of words mean the same thing, switching up the terms throughout your resume never hurts.
5. Don't focus on location - Some recruitment software is set up to screen candidates based on location. You can better apply for jobs out of your area by signing up for a local phone number on Skype.
6. Don't use fancy formatting or fonts - Resumes that contain simple formatting are easier for recruitment software to read. You should leave out graphics, pictures and tables.
7. Emphasize relevant accomplishments - It's important to make sure your resume focuses on your accomplishments, as that information is what hiring managers will seek out if your resume makes it to them.
8. Mail a hard copy of your resume - You can send employers a second copy of your resume by mail , as long as you note it's your second submission and that you're very interested in the job, which may help you stand out.
9. Follow-up with a phone call - You also can call employers directly to confirm that they've received your resume and cover letter, which is another way you can stand out.
10. Don't spend all your time on your resume or trying to get through the system - It's important to not spend too much time trying to match your resume to a specific job or recruitment software, as chances are you still may not hear back from that employer.

Labels: Recruitment software