Whether you’re applying for summer internships, part-time gigs, or a professional role after graduation, a polished and professional resume is your first step toward securing a job offer. Crafting a standout resume can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time or if you haven’t updated it since starting college. But don’t worry—these seven expert tips will guide you through the process and help you create a resume that gets results.
1. Create a Master Resume Document
Recruiters spend an average of just 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume, so your document needs to grab their attention instantly with relevant and compelling information.
As a student, your work experience might range across various industries and job types. Each job application may require a tailored resume. For instance, a high school waitressing job might be relevant for a customer service position but not for an accounting internship. To stay organized, create a comprehensive master resume that includes every job, responsibility, and accomplishment you’ve had.
When it’s time to apply, copy and paste the relevant details into a targeted resume, adjusting for the job listing. Be sure to edit only a copy of your master resume to avoid losing original information. For added security, save your master resume as a PDF or keep a backup.
2. Name Your Resume File Carefully
Recruiters receive hundreds of applications, so generic file names like “Resume” can easily get lost. Instead, name your file as “First Name Surname Resume”—for example, “EmmaMartinezResume.docx” or “JamesAndersonResume.docx.”
If you’re creating different resumes for specific job types, save them in separate folders with descriptive labels. This organization makes it easy to keep track and reference the correct version before interviews.
3. Include Keywords — But Don’t Overdo It
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) filter resumes before they reach a human recruiter, and over 75% of resumes are filtered out for lacking relevant keywords. To avoid this, use the keywords from the job description, such as required skills or certifications, in your resume.
For example, if the listing specifies “attention to detail,” use that exact phrase instead of synonyms like “meticulous.” However, avoid keyword stuffing, which can make your resume seem inauthentic. Strike a balance between optimization and authenticity.
4. Send Your Resume as a DOCX File
While PDFs are known for preserving formatting, not all ATS software can process them. The safest option is to send your resume as a DOCX file (Microsoft Word format). Avoid using uncommon file formats like INDD.
5. Cut Irrelevant Information
Although it’s tempting to list every job you’ve held, focus on roles and responsibilities that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. After copying details from your master resume, edit ruthlessly to keep your resume concise and compelling.
Use bullet points to improve readability, starting each with action verbs and omitting unnecessary words. Aim to fit your resume on one page, maintaining plenty of white space for a clean and professional look. Avoid shrinking the font size too much; readability is key.
6. Adjust the Structure Based on the Role
The structure of your resume should highlight your strongest qualifications for the role. Always begin with your contact information, followed by a professional summary if applicable.
- For academic-related roles: Lead with your education section to emphasize your studies.
- For jobs requiring relevant work experience: Start with your employment history.
- For skills-based roles: Feature a skills section prominently, showcasing transferable abilities gained through hobbies, extracurricular activities, or internships.
7. Use a Professional Template
Using an ATS-friendly template ensures your resume looks polished and includes all essential sections. Professionally designed templates can save you time and enhance readability, increasing your chances of passing ATS software and impressing recruiters.
At CV2Go, we offer a wide variety of templates tailored for college students, whether you’re applying for internships, graduate roles, or part-time jobs. Our templates are optimized for ATS and feature recruiter-approved phrasing to help you stand out. Plus, they’re quick and easy to customize.
Conclusion
A standout resume is the first step toward achieving your career goals. By following these tips, you’ll create a professional, tailored resume that captures the attention of both ATS software and recruiters. For more resources and templates, visit CV2Go and start building your dream career today.
