Whether you’re looking to land your first role in the industry, or you’re ready for your next big career move, understanding the role your resume and ATS plays and making the most of it is vital to your success.
We have reviewed countless resumes and witnessed firsthand what stands out to hiring managers and what gets lost in the shuffle. So, we are here to share some invaluable resume tips and demystify the ATS process to help you increase your chances of success.
Captivate potential employers straight away with 3 simple steps:
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences that align with the specific role and company.
Showcase Your Achievements: Focus on quantifiable achievements and results you've delivered in previous roles. Numbers and metrics catch the reader's eye!
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly emphasize your key accounting and finance skills, such as financial analysis, budgeting, tax expertise, or software proficiency.
These are the top 3 quick ways to optimize your resume and just scratch the surface. If you’re looking for more in depth advice on how to boost your resume, check out this newsletter.
Now, let's dive into the mysterious world of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). ATS is the technology used by employers to streamline the recruitment process and manage the overwhelming influx of applications. Sometimes it’s viewed as a hindrance to jobseekers, but in reality understanding ATS can give you a competitive edge.
When optimizing your resume, keep these 3 points in mind:
Keywords Matter: ATS systems scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job description. Ensure important keywords appear throughout your resume to increase visibility. If you’re not sure how to do this, we break it down step by step here.
Clean Formatting: Use a clean, professional resume format that is compatible with ATS. Avoid colorful templates or complex layouts that may cause readability issues.
Bypass Overloading: Avoid cramming your resume with unnecessary buzzwords or excess information. Focus on relevant achievements and experiences that align with the role.
Remember, while ATS can initially screen resumes, it's not the be-all and end-all. Hiring managers still review selected resumes, and personality and cultural fit play a significant role in the final decision-making process.