Did you know that recruiters typically spend just **6 to 10 seconds** scanning a resume before deciding if it's worth a deeper look? That means you need to make a strong impression instantly.
1. Use a Clear, Structured Layout
Keep your layout clean and easy to follow. Use proper section headers, consistent spacing, and bullet points. Avoid dense paragraphs and fancy fonts.
2. Prioritize Key Information
Place the most relevant and impressive achievements near the top of each section. Don't make the recruiter scroll or search to find your strengths.
3. Write a Strong Summary
Your professional summary should be short, impactful, and tailored to the job. Focus on results and keywords that match the job description.
4. Use Power Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs like “Led,” “Improved,” “Developed,” and “Achieved.” These make your experience sound dynamic and results-driven.
5. Optimize for ATS
Use keywords from the job description to ensure your resume passes through applicant tracking systems. Include job-specific skills and tools.
6. Highlight Results with Numbers
Whenever possible, quantify your impact. For example, “Increased sales by 25%,” or “Reduced turnaround time by 3 days.” Numbers catch attention fast.
7. Keep it One Page (if possible)
For freshers and early-career professionals, keep your resume to one page. Be concise and include only what’s relevant.
Final Tip: First impressions matter. Make sure your resume passes the 6-second test by standing out visually and speaking clearly to the job you're applying for.
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