5 Latest Resume Trends to Set You Apart From the Crowd

Resume writing is a critical part of the job search. You must keep your resume updated even when you are not actively looking for work, so staying updated with the latest resume trends is always crucial. Having an outdated resume may ruin your chances of getting hired, even when you have the exact profile the recruiter is looking for. You don’t want that, right?

Resumes have evolved from simply being a piece of paper with your name, details, and work experience. When was the last time you updated yours? Most people tend to focus solely on updating the content in their resumes, overlooking its overall format and layout — a big mistake. While technology has made it far easier for us to search and apply for jobs, it has also made it equally harder for jobseekers to stand out, given the hundreds of applications recruiters are swamped with for each posting.

You need to regularly review and update your resume to keep it relevant and effective. But how do you ensure that your resume is up to speed with the latest trends? Read on to learn about the latest resume trends and impress hirers with your fresh and impressive resume.

New resume trends and formats to keep you updated

1. Keep it short and sweet.

Recruiters spend an average of six seconds going over one resume. Some even let resumes go through a tracking system that analyses submitted applications. Now more than ever, you need to get the message across in as few words as possible, focusing on the essential facts to catch the recruiter’s eye. Use keywords related to the job and make your profile stronger. We have some examples here to get you started.

Besides the resume length, the way information is presented also makes a big difference. Avoid long and chunky paragraphs — too much text will cause the reader to disconnect and lose interest. Go for short sentences and bullet lists to make the information easy to read and digestible. You can describe your experience in phrases and points. Your resume needs to speak to the hirer, not put them to sleep. As much as possible, keep your resume at two pages — this must be ample space for you to highlight everything about yourself.

2. Start with a summary.

Earlier resume formats typically start with career objectives customised to the job being applied to. While there is nothing wrong with that, career objectives are no longer sought after as career summaries. Starting with a summary is more encompassing of your profile and gives the recruiter an overview of yourself.

The key to effective communication is to put yourself in the reader’s shoes. Giving the recruiter an overview of your profile will quickly explain your experience and qualifications. Your resume is, for all intents and purposes, your sales tool to pitch your skills and attributes to the recruiter. It needs to interest and intrigue the hirer enough for them to want to interview you.

Your resume needs to start with a short but powerful branding statement right at the top of the document. Add your title and your areas of expertise. For example, instead of just writing “Project Manager,” you can add skills or certifications under it, such as “Digital Transformation Champion and Certified Project Manager.”

By adding your summary at the top of your resume, you encourage recruiters to read through the whole document. Remember, you only have six seconds. Not sure how to write a summary? Don’t worry – we have tips to get you started.

3. Presentation is key.

With constant exposure to the internet and the prevalence of social media, our increasingly mobile lifestyles have effectively enhanced our visual appetite and instincts. Practically unlimited access to visual content platforms such as Instagram and TikTok has redefined our visual standards in a way we never thought possible. The standard resume is no longer just the black and white document you send out. There are different ways to design your resume and make it stand out. Applying for a creative job? Consider adding some design elements that showcase your talent.

Add a little oomph to your resume, but do not overdo it! You just want enough details to catch the recruiter’s attention, not drive them away. You can insert a simple logo or change up the colours of your font. After all, you show up to an interview all dressed up. Why not do the same for your resume? But just in case you need some ideas on how to format your resume before you add some design to it, we have some templates for you!

4. Make it personal.

It’s not just about filling your resume with facts and figures anymore. While it is important to show that you have a solid track record, recruiters these days are also interested in the candidate’s personality. Are you a good team player? How are you as a leader? What drives you at work? Do you believe in taking a proactive approach towards solving problems, or are you the passive type? List down your transferable skills as these are not merely a reflection of your personality, but also evidence that you are a well-rounded candidate. Your soft skills complement the technical knowledge you bring to the table.

While your accomplishments and technical know-how are valuable, don’t just list them down in each work experience. Highlight measurable achievements. If you can include numbers, even better. To keep your resume short, choose one to two notable achievements. You can discuss more of those if you are called for an interview.

Did you pick up some new skills when you worked remotely or in a hybrid arrangement? Include these as well. Showing how flexible you are in how and where you work is an asset in these ever-changing times.

5. Go digital.

Make full use of the digital tools at your disposal. It shows recruiters that you are technologically savvy and relevant. If you have samples of your work that you want to offer, you can create an online portfolio. Make it clean and easily accessible. An online portfolio does not just take your profile up a notch, but it also lets you showcase your personal brand. You can easily add hyperlinks to these portfolios in your resume, too.

Summary

Six seconds. That’s all you have. Make sure your resume gets your message across within that tiny window of opportunity. Remember, less is more. Keep it simple. Highlight the essential parts that you want to sell. You can always get into greater detail about yourself when you get called for an interview. Don’t make it difficult for hirers to access the information they’re looking for.

While you freshen up your resume, don’t forget to update your JobStreet profile, so all your bases are covered! Find work that will bring you passion and purpose. Download the JobStreet app in the Google Play Store or the App Store so you can easily update your resume on the go.

Keeping up with the latest resume trends can help you find the #JobsThatMatter faster. However, these trends are constantly evolving, so make sure to make a habit of visiting the Career Resources Hub for more expert tips and advice on job hunting and resume writing.