Want to get up to 10x more job interviews.Then follow this 85% resume content rule!
When crafting your resume, it’s easy to fall into the trap of including everything you’ve ever done since leaving school. However, recruiters and hiring managers have limited time to review applications, and they are not interested in reading a comprehensive history of your career. What they are looking for is a concise and compelling reason why you are the best fit for the specific role they are hiring for.
My number one piece of advice is the 85% resume content rule. This rule suggests that at least 85% of the content within your resume should be directly relevant to the job you are applying for. By tailoring your resume to highlight experiences, skills, and achievements that align closely with the job description, you significantly improve your chances of standing out.
Here’s how you can apply the 85% resume content rule effectively:
- Tailor your resume for each application: Avoid the temptation of submitting a generic resume. Instead, review the job description carefully and ensure that the majority of your resume showcases the experiences, qualifications, and skills that match the specific requirements of the role.
2. Prioritise relevance over volume: Focus on the accomplishments and roles that directly relate to the job you’re applying for. This approach allows you to craft a targeted narrative that resonates with recruiters, rather than overwhelming them with irrelevant information.
3. Remove outdated or irrelevant content: If your resume includes experiences that are no longer relevant to your current career goals, consider removing them or summarizing them briefly to make room for more pertinent content. Recruiters don’t need to see every role you’ve ever held—just those that demonstrate your suitability for the role at hand.
- Increased visibility: Your resume will rank higher in automated applicant tracking systems (ATS) and be more appealing to recruiters, as it will be seen as directly relevant to the job.
- Better alignment with job requirements: A tailored resume showcases your understanding of the role, demonstrating to hiring managers that you are not only qualified but also genuinely interested in the position.
- A more focused application: This approach ensures that your resume remains concise, clear, and compelling, making it easier for recruiters to quickly see why you are the right candidate for the job.
Remember, the goal is not to overwhelm with information but to present a focused, results-oriented profile that makes it easy for recruiters to envision you in the role. Stick to the 85% resume content rule, and you’ll significantly increase your chances of landing interviews and securing the job you want.
