Well, it could be that your resume is so bad, it’s giving hiring managers a case of the hiccups. Or maybe it’s so boring that it’s putting them to sleep and causing them to hit the “reject” button without even realizing it.
Perhaps your resume is so outdated that it’s being mistaken for a historical artifact.
Or maybe you accidentally included a picture of your cat instead of your headshot (hey, it happens!).
But in all seriousness, it’s likely that your resume just needs a little TLC (tender, loving care) and some editing. So take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee, and give that resume a makeover!
First TKO by the ATS.
Yes, it is common for companies to use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to initially screen resumes before they are reviewed by a hiring manager.
An ATS is a software application that scans resumes for keywords and phrases related to the job requirements, as well as other criteria such as education and work experience.
The purpose of an ATS is to streamline the hiring process by automatically filtering out candidates who do not meet the basic requirements for the job. This allows hiring managers to focus on the most qualified candidates and can save time and resources for the company.
It’s important to keep in mind that while an ATS may be used to initially screen resumes, it is ultimately the hiring manager who makes the final decision on which candidates to interview and hire.
Therefore, it’s important to ensure that your resume is not only optimized for ATS but also showcases your relevant skills and experience in a way that will impress the hiring manager.
Surviving the first TKO
Simply make sure the resume contains the keywords and phrases.
Second TKO by the hiring manager
While it’s important to showcase your technical expertise on your resume, it’s also important to ensure that the language you use is easily understandable by the hiring manager or recruiter who will be reviewing your application.
Using technical jargon or industry-specific terms that may not be familiar to the hiring manager can make it difficult for them to understand your qualifications and may lead them to overlook your application. This I would call as “desktop rejection”.
Surviving the second TKO
It’s important to keep in mind that the initial screening process may be conducted by an HR representative or recruiter who may not have technical expertise in your field.
To strike a balance between highlighting your technical skills and ensuring that your resume is easily understandable, consider using a mix of technical and non-technical language.
Use technical jargon where appropriate, but be sure to provide context and explanations so that the hiring manager can understand your qualifications.
It’s also a good idea to research the company and the job requirements to understand what kind of language they use in their job postings and company communications.
This can help you tailor your resume to match their tone and style, making it more likely to catch the hiring manager’s attention.
Another tips on surviving the second TKO
When hiring for a position, a hiring manager typically looks for a combination of technical and non-technical traits that are relevant to the job and the company culture.
Some of the key applicant traits that hiring managers often look for include:
1. Relevant skills and experience: The candidate should have the technical skills and experience necessary to perform the job effectively. This includes both hard skills, such as specific technical or software knowledge, as well as soft skills, such as communication and teamwork.
2. Adaptability and flexibility: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and take on new challenges is an important trait that many hiring managers look for. This includes being able to learn new skills quickly and work effectively in different environments.
3. Initiative and self-motivation: Hiring managers often look for candidates who are self-starters and can take the initiative to solve problems and drive projects forward. This includes being able to work independently and take ownership of tasks and projects.
4. Strong work ethic: A strong work ethic is an important trait that many hiring managers value. This includes being reliable, punctual, and willing to go above and beyond to achieve goals.
5. Cultural fit: Hiring managers often look for candidates who will fit in well with the company culture and work well with other team members. This includes having similar values, attitudes, and work styles as others in the company.
Overall, the specific traits that a hiring manager looks for will vary depending on the company, the position, and the hiring manager’s own preferences.
However, by showcasing your relevant skills and experience and demonstrating your ability to adapt, take initiative, and work well with others, you can increase your chances of impressing the hiring manager and landing the job.
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