Real Tips from Recruiters Who See What Works (and What Doesn’t)
You’ve heard it before: your resume is a hiring manager or supervisor’s first impression of you. And in a competitive job market, it needs to be more than just a loosely chronological list of duties and job titles. At Snelling Georgia, we review hundreds of resumes every week. So we turned to our Recruiting Coordinator, Cynthia—who sees more resumes than anyone else on our team—for her insight into what truly makes a resume rise to the top.
1. Start Strong with a Resume Summary
Think of the top of your resume as your elevator pitch. Your summary—just 2 to 3 sentences—should quickly highlight your experience, top strengths, and the kind of role you’re targeting. Skip the clichés like “hardworking,” “team player,” or “seeking a challenging opportunity.” Instead, tailor this section to each job you apply for and be specific.
2. Use Keywords from the Job Description
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes before a human ever reads them. To get past the filter, include keywords from the job posting—especially skills, tools, certifications, and experience that match what the employer is looking for.
3. Highlight Achievements, Not Just Duties
Don’t just tell employers what you did—show them the impact you made. Use measurable results wherever possible.
Instead of:
“Responsible for managing inventory.”
Try:
“Reduced inventory discrepancies by 35% by implementing a new tracking system.”
4. Keep the Format Clean and Simple
Recruiters spend just seconds scanning each resume, so make it easy to read. Use clean fonts, consistent bullet points, and plenty of white space.
Avoid:
- Dense blocks of text
- Decorative or mismatched fonts
- Inconsistent formatting or margins
5. Showcase Your Skills
Dedicate a section to relevant technical and soft skills. These might include software proficiencies, certifications, or traits like leadership and time management.
Example Skills Section:
- Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
- Bilingual: English/Spanish
- OSHA 10 Certified
- Time Management
- Team Leadership
6. Include Certifications & Relevant Training
Any courses, licenses, or certifications that are relevant to the job can set you apart—especially in fields like logistics, healthcare, HR, and skilled trades.
7. Edit for Precision and Professionalism
Avoid including personal details that can lead to unconscious bias, such as your full address, marital status, age, or previous salary. Save headshots for your LinkedIn profile—not your resume. Also, keep it concise: if you have fewer than 10 years of experience, stick to a one-page resume and focus on what’s most relevant.
8. Double-Check for Errors
Typos and formatting issues can hurt your credibility. Proofread carefully and, if possible, have someone else look it over too.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Resume Work for You
A great resume doesn’t just tell your story—it underscores your value. At Snelling Georgia, we’re here to support you through every stage of your career journey. Whether you’re searching for a temporary role, a long-term placement, or a fresh start in a new field, our recruiters are ready to help you land your next opportunity.
Think your resume is ready to shine?
Let’s find your next job—reach out to us today!
