Your resume and online profile are your first impression on recruiters. These 20 smart, professional tips will help you stand out and make your profile recruiter-ready.
Limit your resume to 1–2 pages. Focus on relevance and clarity rather than long descriptions.
Tailor your resume and LinkedIn headline to match each role’s key requirements and keywords.
Avoid heavy graphics and complex layouts. Recruiters prefer simple, ATS-friendly formats.
Use 3–4 lines to summarize your skills, experience, and professional value clearly.
Use data to show impact — e.g., “Increased sales by 25%” or “Reduced costs by 15%.”
Start bullet points with words like “Led,” “Developed,” “Managed,” “Delivered,” or “Implemented.”
Use industry-relevant terms found in job descriptions to improve ATS (Applicant Tracking System) visibility.
Maintain uniform font style, size, and spacing. Consistency signals professionalism.
Craft a clear “About” section on LinkedIn that mirrors your resume but with a more personal tone.
Use a clean, confident photo with good lighting and a neutral background — first impressions count.
Edit your LinkedIn URL to include your full name — looks cleaner on resumes and business cards.
Use clear job titles and bullet points that demonstrate growth, promotions, or expanded responsibilities.
List only relevant certifications that add value or credibility to your current role or goals.
Request brief LinkedIn recommendations from supervisors or peers that validate your professional credibility.
Begin bullets with outcomes, followed by how you achieved them — e.g., “Boosted retention by 18% through mentorship.”
Add up to 50 skills on LinkedIn — prioritize those that appear in job listings you target.
Keep language simple, professional, and free of unnecessary buzzwords like “synergy” or “go-getter.”
Numbers give credibility — they prove results rather than just describing effort.
Typos and grammar errors can cost opportunities. Proofread twice or use a grammar tool.
Regularly refresh your resume and LinkedIn — even when not job hunting — to stay ready for new opportunities.