We all know the stress of the job hunt. Browsing the ‘hiring’ pages online, practicing how you’ll negotiate your pay in the mirror, wondering if you’ve got what it takes. And a big part of the job hunt process is your BFF, the resume. And like a lot of things in life, resumes can be a little complicated and needlessly stressful. But to get the job, you’re gonna need one.

But a good resume isn’t quite gonna cut it anymore. You need something impressive. Something that will make them remember you, maybe even make them search you on IG. Ultimately, something that will get you the job every time! When you’re crafting the perfect resume, there are a couple things to keep in mind.

Wait, do I really need a resume?

Many tend to question if a resume is really something you need in 2020, or if they’re becoming outdated in the digital age. But make no mistake — while it may not be the obvious top priority of every employer out there — when you’re applying to jobs, you’re going to want to have a resume handy.

Often times, without a resume, companies won’t even know who you are. You could quickly become a lost email or an unchecked voicemail. A resume is a physical object in front of them reminding them who you are and what you’ve done — so do what you can to impress them!

How to Write an Impressive Resume (That Gets You the Job Every Time!)

1. Stick to one page

Your resume should never exceed one page! When a potential employer is flipping through a stack of resumes and looking for any excuse to cut a few from the pile, the ones that stretch on for 2 or even 3 pages will be the first to go.

Make it easy on the person hiring you. Keep your resume to one page maximum, and cut out the fluff. If you notice yourself using too much flowery language in your job descriptions, or you have a huge header where you don’t need to have one, consider what you can do to shrink things down. Be succinct in your words, and be subtle in your design choices to leave room for the information that matters most.

2. Leverage design platforms

Create a resume that’s eye-catching, but not overloaded. Design platforms like my personal fav, Picmonkey, allow you to use pre-made, customizable templates for resumes, cover letters, and more!

Using a design platform’s template is a great way to stick to the one-page-only rule. Find a single page template and work with the space you’ve been given. You can also use them for inspo and create your own from scratch! If you’re looking for a tasteful way to add a photo or searching for the perfect color scheme, check out some pre-made templates and get your creative gears turning.

3. Focus on the work

Potential employers are looking for what you’re capable of in a work setting, not necessarily the places where you’ve worked in the past. While it’s important to include the name of your past employers for reference purposes, focus more on what you did to make a difference in those companies.

What responsibilities did you have? What projects did you complete? Is there an example of work you can include for reference? Write what makes you stand out in the sea of applicants, and show them what makes you a valuable addition to their team.

4. Keep it current

Keep your resume as up to date as possible. Not only does this avoid leaving gaps of time in your work history, but you never know when you may need to present a resume. If you get a new job, go into your document and add it to your list of experience ASAP!

Similarly, if you learn a new skill at work, pop it into your document! Pick up the skill of translating? Add it to your experience section. Learn how to use a new software? Add it to the list! Let people know what you can do and show that you value continuous education in your work style.

5. Be (simply) true to you

Everyone wants their resumes to look like them. We want employers to know who we are, and we want to put it all in that single page. But as fun as it can be to add the colors and the fonts and the emojis, do not go overboard on the visuals of your resume. It’s okay to add a pop of color or a subtle symbol (like the shoe in the example resume), but be intentional with what you choose. What does it say about you? And why does it need to be said?

Overall, an impressive resume is short, sweet, and professional, but a little bit of flair never hurt anybody! Focus on your strengths and communicate the value you have brought to others in the past. And when interview time comes, be confident. Be you. You’ve got this!

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QOTD: What’s the hardest part about crafting a resume for you?