Key Insights on Resume Writing from Austin Belsack's Study

Jul 17, 2024

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.