Understanding how hiring managers review resumes can give you a clear advantage in your job search. With recruiters spending only seconds on an initial scan, your resume needs to be impactful, concise, and tailored to the position. Here are key insights into what hiring managers look for and how you can make your resume stand out.

1. Focus on Relevant Experience and Skills

• Hiring managers typically scan for experience and skills that match the job description. Tailor each resume to highlight relevant roles, responsibilities, and achievements. Including keywords from the job listing increases the likelihood of passing both applicant tracking systems (ATS) and human reviews.

2. Clarity and Professional Formatting

• Clear, professional formatting is essential for readability. Avoid complex designs or overly decorative fonts. Instead, use a clean, structured format with consistent headings and bullet points. This helps hiring managers quickly locate information that matters, making your resume more likely to pass the initial scan.

3. Concise, Action-Oriented Language

• Using strong action verbs like "led," "implemented," and "increased" makes your contributions clear and engaging. Focus on quantifiable achievements (e.g., “boosted sales by 30%”) rather than listing duties, as hiring managers want to see the impact you made.

4. Keywords for ATS Compatibility

• Many companies use ATS to filter resumes before they reach hiring managers. To increase your chances of getting through, use keywords from the job description that match your experience. Be mindful of industry-specific terminology that aligns with the role.

5. Professional Summary or Objective

• A concise professional summary at the top of your resume helps hiring managers quickly understand your career background and goals. This section should be tailored to each job, highlighting your most relevant skills and how they align with the company's needs.

6. Education and Certifications

• While experience often outweighs education, relevant degrees or certifications can set you apart, particularly in specialised fields. If you have recent, role-specific training, include it near the top of your resume to show commitment to continuous learning.

7. Achievements Over Responsibilities

• Managers prefer resumes that emphasise achievements, not just job responsibilities. Wherever possible, quantify your impact with specific metrics or results, as this demonstrates your contributions and sets you apart from candidates who simply list tasks.

8. Concise Length and Structure

• Hiring managers appreciate brevity. Aim for one to two pages, focusing on relevant roles and details. Avoid filler language, and remove outdated or irrelevant information. A concise resume makes it easier for managers to identify your qualifications quickly.

9. Customised for Each Role

• Customising your resume for each application increases your chances significantly. Adjust your skills and experience to match what the hiring manager is seeking. A tailored resume demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to understand the role and align your qualifications accordingly.

10. Proofreading and Consistency

• Spelling errors or inconsistent formatting can hurt your chances, as hiring managers may see them as signs of carelessness. Carefully proofread your resume for typos, grammar issues, and formatting consistency.

Crafting a resume that hiring managers will find appealing involves focusing on clarity, relevance, and results. For more tips, visit our guide on resume writing for hiring managers and explore additional resources on optimising your resume for ATS systems.