Just in time for the next batch of graduates, and following on the previous post on resumes, comes a research report from TheLadders.
The study followed 30 professional recruiters as they did their jobs over a 10 week period. One result, that recruiters spend an average of just six seconds on a resume before they make an initial decision on whether the candidate is a possible fit or not. The study also used eye-tracking to record where they looked, and for how long, when they examined resumes.
The two resumes pictured give an example of the "heat map" of the recruiter's eye movements. The study found that the resume to the far right was looked at more thoroughly, and for a longer time. They suggest that was due to the clear and concise format that made it easier to locate "the most relevant information, like skills and experience"
One piece of advice coming out of the research was that you should make it easier for recruiters to find pertinent information by creating a resume with a clear visual hierarchy.
Another post mentioned some other resume no-nos -
Sources - What Recruiters Look At During The 6 Seconds They Spend on Your Resume, Business Insider
11 Things You Should Never Put on Your Resume, Business Insider
The study followed 30 professional recruiters as they did their jobs over a 10 week period. One result, that recruiters spend an average of just six seconds on a resume before they make an initial decision on whether the candidate is a possible fit or not. The study also used eye-tracking to record where they looked, and for how long, when they examined resumes.
In the short time that they spend with your resume, the study showed recruiters will look at your name, current title and company, current position start and end dates, previous title and company, previous position start and end dates, and education.
One piece of advice coming out of the research was that you should make it easier for recruiters to find pertinent information by creating a resume with a clear visual hierarchy.
Another post mentioned some other resume no-nos -
- Get rid of the "Objective" - If you applied, it's already obvious you want the job, and if it's not what you applied for, they'll wonder why you've wasted their time.
- Separate relevant from irrelevant work experiences and consider leaving the irrelevant off. Also, don't list hobbies or volunteer work unless they involve relevant skills
- Don't include personal info, particularly social security numbers
- Offer, but don't list, references - unless they specifically ask for them. (And make sure the people you list are aware that you've listed them, and that they'll say good things)
- Make sure you list an email address, and make it "professional"
- If you're looking for a new job while already employed, don't include current business contact info (unless they know you're looking).
- Keep it to one page
Sources - What Recruiters Look At During The 6 Seconds They Spend on Your Resume, Business Insider
11 Things You Should Never Put on Your Resume, Business Insider