Hiring managers are used by companies to quickly find well-qualified candidates for open positions. As such, they are experts in scanning resumes for relevant information. How can you gain a hiring manager's interest within the approximate 20-30 seconds he or she will spend reviewing your submission? Here are some expert tips:

1) INSERT THE EXACT TITLE OF THE JOB YOU'RE APPLYING FOR AT THE START OF THE RESUME

Jobseekers needlessly fret over what title should begin the resume. Executive-Level Sales Management? Driven and Proactive IT Leader? Forget about the flowery descriptions and instead insert the EXACT TITLE of the position you're applying for up top. This approach minimizes the chances of your resume being lost amongst the hundreds of other resumes, spanning multiple positions, clamoring for a hiring manager's attention.

2) REFERENCE JOB POSTING SKILLS WITHIN THE OPENING

When it comes to resumes, the closer you can adhere to what a prospective employer is looking for, the better your chances of landing an interview. Analyze the job posting carefully. What key skills are referenced that you possess? Craft a brief opening paragraph, no more than 3-4 lines, that tackles them. For example, an IT Project Manager could focus on his/her ability to forge technology roadmaps, effectively guide technical teams, and strengthen infrastructures. Whatever your particular combination amounts to, make sure you can easily back it up within the work history section of your resume.

3) QUANTIFY ACCOMPLISHMENTS WHEREVER POSSIBLE

Every relevant position you've held within the past 10-12 years should have a "Key Accomplishments" or similar section listing successes (in bullets). Try to avoid listing generalities and make the effort to insert concrete details wherever possible. Sometimes this will mean checking old records, or even calling up colleagues for the information. However, the extra work can pay off in amazing ways. The difference between a hiring manager reading a bullet like, "Increased sales in Northeast territory" and "Increased Northeast territory sales 25% through high-impact marketing initiatives and dedicated representative training" can often amount to an interview offer versus a rejection.

One of the advantages of using the tips listed above is that it sets the stage for a great interview. By taking the time to clearly structure your resume and highlight accomplishments, you essentially create a set of talking points that can be elaborated upon within an interview context. Best of luck in your job search!

Anish Majumdar is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Owner at Resume Orbit. 95% of clients report a significant increase in interviews within 30 days, and all work comes backed by a 100% Satisfaction or Money Back Guarantee (in writing).

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