In the competitive landscape of job hunting, a compelling resume is your ticket to unlocking doors of opportunity. Whether you're a seasoned professional or transitioning into the holistic health field, the importance of a well-crafted resume cannot be overstated. At the American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS), our Career Services department is dedicated to helping current students and graduates shape resumes that resonate with potential employers in the holistic health industry.
Recruiters often spend a mere six seconds scanning a resume.1 Formatting, organization, and font choice play pivotal roles in grabbing attention. Ensure your resume is visually appealing and easy to navigate, highlighting crucial information promptly.
Customization is key. An astonishing 54% of recruiters reject resumes that lack tailored content.2 Craft resumes specifically aligned with the job you're pursuing, emphasizing relevant skills and experiences.
The ideal resume strikes a balance between hard and soft skills, incorporating technical expertise while highlighting interpersonal abilities. Don't underestimate the power of soft skills; they matter to 62% of employers.3 Another consideration when highlighting your skills is to use the terminology to describe your skills that align with the industry you'd be working in and skills as they're listed in the position description. For example, one industry may refer to project management, while another industry refers to program coordination. Depending on the position, these likely require comparable skills. Using language aligned with the industry or organization you're hoping to work for shows employers that you've done your research and are ready to start contributing right away.
Misrepresenting or exaggerating skills can backfire. Emphasize your transferable skills and accomplishments truthfully. Employers value authenticity and integrity. If there's a required skill you haven't yet developed, you could share an example of how you approach learning a new skill and a time when you did this successfully.
Application tracking systems scan resumes for specific keywords. Tailor your resume to include industry-specific terms to increase visibility.
Missing accomplishments are a common resume pitfall. Highlight achievements that demonstrate your impact and capabilities.
While job boards have their place, networking remains an essential tool. Use your resume as a versatile asset during networking opportunities.
Director of Career & Alumni Services, Felicia Royce, shares invaluable insights: "Crafting a tailored resume and cover letter is pivotal. It's about using keywords and aligning your skills with the employer's needs. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn't cut it anymore."
Felicia emphasizes the need for two or three base resumes, customized for specific roles. "This tailored approach improves your chances of navigating application tracking systems and catching the eye of recruiters."
Navigating the maze of resume crafting might seem daunting, but ACHS Career Services can help. Felicia encourages individuals to schedule meetings for personalized guidance. "We understand the challenges job-seekers face. Let us help you create a winning resume and cover letter."
In the holistic health profession, where authenticity and expertise matter, a tailored resume could be your golden ticket. Crafting a resume that mirrors your passion and expertise is your gateway to standing out in the competitive job market. Don't underestimate the power of a well-crafted resume—it could be the key to unlocking your dream career in holistic health.
Source:
1 Cunningham, C. (2019, June 24). Discover 9 Killer Résumé Statistics to Help You Win That Interview. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/discover-9-killer-r%C3%A9sum%C3%A9-statistics-help-you-win-catherine-cunningham/
2 Ibid.
3 Ibid.