From friends to love interests, it’s human nature to want to make a good impression on people. However, if you’re working with a recruiter, that urge to impress is often kicked into high gear. Here are some tips for showing a recruiter or hiring manager you’re up to the task:

Customize Your Resume

Employers have specific needs for their companies, and as such are looking for specific employees to fill them. With that in mind, you probably won’t get far by filling your resume with generalities. To craft a resume that stands out to the recruiter, take time to read the job description, looking for important words and phrases. For example, if the recruiter requests a candidate with extensive proofreading experience, “proofreading” is probably a good word to include on your CV.

Focus on Advantages

Wondering whether to start your resume with skills or education? Job experience or a personal statement? The truth is there’s no one way to craft a killer resume. Instead, job seekers should consider their specific strengths and backgrounds when making these decisions. For example, if you’re fresh out of college and have little in the way of work experience, it might be wise to lead off with educational achievements. On the other hand, if you have years of on-the-job-experience, it might pay to highlight your most impressive or relevant roles.

Research the Company

Of course, impressing recruiters goes beyond what you put on paper. If you want to make the right impression, take time to prep for phone screenings and in-person interviews as well. Start by reviewing the company website, searching for info on upcoming projects, company culture, and even community outreach initiatives. Doing this will enable you to answer questions more comprehensively and ask some smart ones, as well.

Get Your Foot in the Door with Help From HCR

Since the first HCR office opened in 1996, we have been helping job seekers in the automotive industry and beyond find exciting opportunities. Our goal is to be a leading source of Human Capital Resources. To learn more about what we can do for you, call today or contact our recruiters online. We look forward to helping you find your new job.