Tips to Catch a Recruiter’s Eye
I look at a lot of resumes and LinkedIn profiles—a lot. From sales professionals and engineers to IT specialists and managers, I’ve reviewed hundreds (maybe thousands) of profiles throughout my recruiting career. When I’m trying to narrow down a stack of candidates, there are certain things I look for immediately to help me identify who stands out.
How do you make sure your resume or LinkedIn profile is one that catches my eye? Here are some practical tips:
LinkedIn Tips
Write a Strong Summary
Your "About" section is your elevator pitch. Summarize who you are, your key strengths, and what drives you professionally. Keep it authentic, concise, and written in your voice—but don’t be afraid to include specific industries or roles you’re targeting. This helps recruiters quickly understand your direction and value.
Set Your Status
Use the “Open to Work” feature—either publicly or privately to recruiters. This increases your visibility in search results and signals that you're actively or passively open to new opportunities, making it easier for recruiters to reach out.
List Your Skills Thoughtfully
Add relevant skills that reflect your real experience, not just buzzwords. Focus on both technical skills (e.g., Salesforce, AutoCAD, Python) and soft skills (e.g., leadership, communication). LinkedIn uses this section to match you with job opportunities, so make sure it’s current and tailored.
Upload a Professional Photo
A clear, friendly, and professional photo increases your chances of getting viewed. It adds a personal touch and shows that you’ve taken the time to complete your profile. Avoid overly casual or filtered images—opt for a clean, approachable look.
Resume Tips
Clean, Clear Format
Avoid cluttered layouts and hard-to-read fonts. Make sure your company names, job titles, and dates of employment are easy to find. Use bold headings and logical formatting to guide the reader’s eye through your career timeline.
Highlight Results with Metrics
Quantify your impact wherever possible. Instead of "Managed a team," write "Led a team of 10 and improved project delivery time by 30%." Metrics demonstrate your value and show how you’ve contributed to business goals.
Include Certifications and Special Skills
Don’t bury important credentials. List certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, AWS Certified) and technical tools prominently. These often serve as filters in application tracking systems and are a great way to stand out.
Use Bullet Points Strategically
Each bullet should communicate a key achievement, responsibility, or skill. Avoid generic descriptions—focus on what sets you apart in each role. Use strong action verbs and keep the language punchy and professional.
Final Thoughts:
Your resume and LinkedIn profile should tell your story in a way that is easy to read and hard to forget. Keep it sharp, keep it relevant, and make sure it reflects the value you bring to the table. Give yourself the best chance in this competitive market!