You’ve spotted your dream job on your target company’s website. Or a top recruiter calls you with just the opportunity you’ve been looking for. You’re excited! You bang out a quick cover letter and attach your resume. But wait! Are you sure your resume is ready? Are you willing to risk your future without giving it one last perusal? Here’s an IT resume checklist to be sure that you’ve dotted all your i’s and crossed all your t’s.
Crafting a Winning Cover Letter.
Does your cover letter connect the dots between the job posting and your resume? The interviewer should read your letter and think, “I can’t wait to see what this person has to offer!” Use key words from the job posting in the cover letter and touch on two to three key areas where your experience or skills match up with the employers “must have” list.
Getting Past the (Electronic) Gatekeeper.
First step is to make it through the applicant tracking system (ATS). This system performs the initial resume screen. Its job is to screen out, not screen in, so don’t get left behind. Be sure that each section of your resume meshes with the requirements of the position. Use the same terminology, the same spelling.
Spicing Up Your Skills Summary.
The top of the resume, once reserved for an objective statement, now focuses on a skills summary. This allows the reader to tell at a glance if you have the attributes and experience they require.
- Have you listed the skills noted in the job posting in your summary?
- Deleted any superfluous ones?
- Updated programming languages or certifications?
Detailing Your Experience.
Customize your resume by focusing your experience directly to the employer’s needs. List the positions in reverse chronological order and use action words. Provide quantifiable accomplishments, don’t just list your job description.
Don’t neglect soft skills. Today’s employers are looking for people with both technical skills and the ability to collaborate with other departments or functional areas.
Before you Hit Send…
Proofread. Even if you have to wait a day or two, look at the document with fresh eyes to catch any errors. Enlist the help of a friend if you can. Be sure that you have correctly spelled the name of the person you are sending it to.
Need additional advice on resumes, interviewing or finding a great IT job? Talk to the experts at APN Consulting. As one of the top technical staffing companies in the New York area, they can help you find and prepare for that dream job. Contact APN Consulting today!