How to Make Your Resume Stand Out in 2024

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A resume is more than just a list of jobs and skills; it's your professional brand on paper. In 2024, the landscape is evolving with AI-powered applicant tracking systems (ATS) and an increasingly competitive job market. To ensure your resume doesn’t get lost, let’s explore strategies that can make your resume stand out.

1. Use Clear and Relevant Keywords

Hiring managers often rely on ATS software to filter through resumes. To improve your chances of making it through, study the job description and incorporate relevant keywords into your resume. Keywords often include:

Industry-specific terms (e.g., "data analysis" for data-related roles)
Job title or related titles
Specific software or tools required for the position

Using keywords appropriately, without overloading, will improve readability and make your resume a match for automated filters.

2. Focus on Achievements, Not Responsibilities

Instead of listing job duties, show how you contributed to past workplaces. Use quantifiable achievements whenever possible:

“Increased sales by 25% over one year”
“Reduced team expenses by 10% through process improvement”
“Managed a team of 5, improving project turnaround by 30%”

Using metrics demonstrates your value and gives hiring managers a clear idea of your impact.

3. Create a Strong Summary Section

At the top of your resume, write a compelling summary that encapsulates your unique skills and experience:

Keep it concise (2–3 sentences)
Highlight relevant skills and achievements
Mention your career goals and how they align with the company’s objectives

This section can grab attention quickly and give hiring managers a reason to read further.

4. Tailor Each Resume to the Job

Each job is different, so a generic resume might not perform well across the board. Customise your resume for each application by:

Emphasising experience that relates directly to the job description
Moving relevant experience higher up
Adjusting your summary and keywords to match each role

5. Incorporate Soft Skills with Examples

Companies value soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Integrate these skills by linking them to tangible results. For example:

“Collaborated with cross-functional teams to launch three successful projects on time.”
“Communicated project goals to team members, boosting engagement and alignment by 20%.”

6. Use a Modern, Clean Design

Avoid overly complex designs, but ensure your resume is visually appealing. A clean, structured layout improves readability:

Use consistent fonts (sans-serif is typically easier to read)
Organise sections with bold headers
Stick to one or two columns

7. Proofread for Perfection

A resume with typos and errors can quickly derail your chances. Before submitting, proofread your resume carefully:

Read aloud to catch any awkward phrasing
Check for grammar and punctuation errors
Ask a friend or mentor to review for clarity and accuracy

A well-proofed resume reflects professionalism and attention to detail, both of which are essential in any role.

Ready to create your standout resume? Craft your resume with professional guidance tailored to current trends in Australia’s job market.

By following these steps, you’ll build a resume that grabs attention, passes automated filters, and effectively communicates your value to potential employers.