Modern Resumes Are Breaking All The Rules

Modern resumes are not a resume at all. Resumes themselves are antiquated. We spend too much time perfecting every detail of our formatting and showcasing our accomplishments. Why? In hopes that the recruiter or HR Rep will catch the right words and phrases during a 5-second scan. It’s really the worst. 

Let’s dive into the job application process. We start on a job board. We’re looking for what’s interesting or challenging. Next comes the application requirements. You guessed it–the dreaded resume and cover letter. Is there anything more mind-numbing than updating this document? Then, we need to reach out to trusted peers for a critique? It’s an endless cycle of composition, editing, and re-editing. 

It’s understandable that HR/TA departments will need a copy. However, is this the best pathway to get a conversation started? The true focus during the job application process should be on your tangible, measurable skills. A shiny, modern resume simply doesn’t communicate this about you. 

When it comes to modern recruitment practices, we need to be cognizant that not every single company is going to expect you to follow the ways of the past. You know–the crisp, 1-page resume, a cover letter with a tone that’s somewhere between starving for attention and self-promotion. It simply cannot go on. 

Modern Resume Tips

Keep in mind, it’s okay to have a resume that is more than one page. The folks in charge of hiring and recruitment aren’t printing them as often these days. Feel free to give more explanation if there is something you’re particularly passionate about. Maybe you took a few courses for professional or self-development. In the case of these, don’t feel the need to include every single one, it will crowd up your resume. 

When it comes to your duties, accomplishments, and successes, it’s very important that you highlight these. This is generally what leaders are looking for when you’re trying to move up. Something not often mentioned but quite important are the nuances of your work environment. What systems, technology, and tools were used? It’ll show you’re savvy and can adapt quickly. 

More Resume Polishes

Now that we live in a world where people work remotely, there is no need to add our full address. The city and state are just fine. The same goes for date formatting. It’s perfectly okay to only include the years. Adding month-to-month breakdowns of when you held different roles is overkill. 

Do you have a LinkedIn? You should! Make sure to include your profile handle amongst your contact details. This way, you’ll know when someone from a prospective company has visited your page. Your profile needs to stay updated as well. Keep all of your roles current and try to post with some frequency.  

If you have additional thoughts or solid alternative formatting ideas, SideSearch would love to hear from you! When it comes to recruitment, we’re changing the game. We were started by HR and Recruitment professionals that saw what is broken about the job search process. We took away resumes, cover letters, and even names to give people an anonymous job search platform. Companies can find their best matches based on skills.

Please send us a note, subject line “Rockin’ Resume” to Support@SideSearch.com.

SideSearch is a modern job search platform that focuses on skills-based matching. Accounting, Finance, Business Development, Human Resources, and IT professionals can build a profile. Show us what you love to do. No resumes, just skill-based matching.