Key Insights on Resume Writing from Austin Belsack's Study

Introduction

• Presenter: Jeff
• Topic: Proven foundational principles for writing an incredible resume based on data from Austin Belsack's analysis of 125,484 resumes.
• Objective: Understand and implement key resume writing tips to stand out and increase interview rates.

Five Key Learnings from Austin's Study

1. Include a LinkedIn Profile

• Finding: Resumes with a LinkedIn profile see higher interview rates.
• Statistic: Only 48% of resumes included a LinkedIn profile.
• Details: A comprehensive LinkedIn profile boosts chances; a basic profile can decrease them.
  • Components of a good LinkedIn profile:
    • Professional headshot and banner
    • Detailed work experience
    • Meaningful connections
• Insight: Strong LinkedIn profiles are more crucial for entry-level job seekers.

2. Include Relevant Keywords and Skills

• Finding: Candidates include only 51% of important keywords and skills.
• Details:
  • Use word cloud tools to identify and incorporate relevant keywords from job descriptions.
  • Hard Skills: Candidates included 60% of necessary hard skills.
  • Soft Skills: Candidates included only 28% of necessary soft skills.
  • Tools: Use Udemy's workplace trends reports or CNBC summaries to find in-demand soft skills.

3. Use Measurable Metrics

• Finding: Only 26% of resumes included five or more measurable metrics.
• Details:
  • Metrics help quantify and understand a candidate's value.
  • Example: Using the XYZ formula: Accomplish X as measured by Y by doing Z.
  • Tip: Quantify results, even if not directly linked to revenue (e.g., increase in productivity).

4. Ideal Resume Length

• Finding: Ideal resume length is between 475 to 600 words.
• Statistic: 77% of resumes fell outside this range.
• Details:
  • Resumes within this word count range saw double the interview rates.
  • Exceptions: Professors, federal employees, C-level executives might have longer resumes.

5. Avoid Buzzwords and Clichés

• Finding: 51% of resumes included buzzwords, clichés, or incorrect pronouns.
• Details:
  • Buzzwords detract from the candidate's message.
  • Solution: Google common resume buzzwords and remove them for improvement.

Implications and Practical Tips

• Optimize LinkedIn Profile: Ensure it's detailed and professional.
• Keyword Strategy: Use job descriptions and tools to identify necessary keywords.
• Add Metrics: Use quantifiable results to demonstrate achievements.
• Maintain Word Count: Aim for 475-600 words to statistically improve chances.
• Eliminate Buzzwords: Focus on selling experience, not summarizing with clichés.

Conclusion

• Benefit: Implementing these data-backed strategies can significantly elevate your resume.
• Resource: Check out related videos and articles for additional tips.