Make a Resume Specifically Targeted for a Job

What is a targeted resume

A targeted resume is a resume that's customized to specifically highlight the experience and skills you have that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Unlike a generic or standard resume, which is often a comprehensive record of your work history and skills, a targeted resume is tailored and adjusted to align with the specific job posting.

How to make a targeted resume

Creating a targeted resume involves tailoring your application to align specifically with the job you're applying for. Start by thoroughly understanding the job description and company culture.

Identify the key skills, qualifications, and experiences required, then reflect these in your resume. Your career summary should be focused and articulate how you're the ideal candidate for the specific role.

When listing your work experience and skills, prioritize those that directly relate to the job. Include measurable achievements that demonstrate your impact in past roles.

Use industry-specific terminology and keywords that are mentioned in the job listing, as this can help your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Finally, consider getting feedback from someone familiar with the company or role, to ensure your resume is truly targeted.

How to make a targeted resume summary

A targeted summary (also known as a professional summary, profile, or career objective) is the first section of your resume after your contact information. It's a brief statement, typically 3-5 sentences long, that outlines your professional skills and experiences that make you an ideal fit for the job you're applying to.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a targeted summary:

• Understand the Job Description: Read the job posting carefully. Identify the key skills, experiences, and qualifications the employer is seeking. This will help you understand what to emphasize in your summary.
  
• Identify Your Relevant Skills and Experience: Reflect on your professional history and skills. Select those aspects that align with the job posting. These can include hard skills (like proficiency in specific software or language), soft skills (like leadership or problem-solving abilities), and key accomplishments.
  
• Write a Concise Statement: Begin writing your summary. Try to keep it concise and to the point, ideally not more than 3-5 sentences. The goal is to clearly articulate why you're a strong candidate for this specific job.
  
• Use Job Posting Language: Incorporate language from the job posting into your summary. This can help demonstrate your fit for the role and can help your resume get past automated scanning software that looks for certain keywords.

How to find out what skills are needed for a job to create a targeted resume?

In order to find the necessary skills for a job and to create a targeted resume, you should first look at the job description, as this is where employers usually list their desired skills. These can range from "hard" skills related to the job, such as specific programming languages for a software developer, to "soft" skills like communication and teamwork.

Another valuable resource is the company's own website, which can often provide insights into the skills they value in their employees. You can also gain a better understanding of the skills required by researching the standards typical for your industry or profession.

Should every resume you send be targeted

In an ideal scenario, yes, every resume you send should be targeted. A targeted resume is crafted specifically for the job you're applying for, highlighting your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the job description.

Employers often appreciate a targeted resume because it demonstrates that you've taken the time to understand the requirements of the job and have considered how your background makes you a good fit. It also makes it easier for hiring managers to see why you might be a strong candidate, as they don't have to connect the dots between a generic resume and the specific job requirements.

However, crafting a targeted resume can be time-consuming, particularly if you're applying for many jobs at once. That’s why our targeted resume app can help you with ensuring that your resume has the right skills and keywords included to pass the ATS and impress recruiters.