In today’s competitive job market, knowing how to get your resume read is crucial. Did you know that 95% of resumes never get read? If your job applications keep getting ignored, the problem isn’t your skills—it’s your resume.
Recruiters receive hundreds of applications, and if your resume doesn’t stand out, it will never be read.
So, how do you break through the noise and get your resume noticed? In this post, we’ll reveal how to get your resume read by recruiters and applicant tracking systems (ATS), increasing your chances of landing an interview.
The Resume Black Hole: Why Most Resumes Never Get Read
Most resumes don’t go straight to a recruiter’s desk. Instead, they land in an ATS—a database that scans and filters applications before a human sees them. If your resume isn’t optimized with the right keywords and structure, it won’t even make it to the recruiter’s desk.
That’s why how to get your resume read isn’t just about writing a good resume—it’s about tailoring it to what employers are actually looking for.
Step 1: Understand Your Target Audience (The Employer)
Mastering how to get your resume read can be the first step toward landing your dream job. Think of your resume as a marketing document. Instead of listing everything you’ve ever done, focus on what employers want to see.
Recruiters are searching for candidates who match specific job descriptions, so your resume should highlight skills and experiences that align with those roles.
To get your resume read, follow these strategies:
- Use the Right Keywords: Read the job descriptions for your target role and include relevant skills and terms in your resume.
- Keep it Relevant: Remove outdated or irrelevant experience that doesn’t apply to the job you’re applying for.
- Match the Job Title: If possible, use the exact job title from the posting in your resume.
Step 2: Optimize Your Resume for ATS
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) filter out resumes that don’t match the job criteria. If your resume isn’t ATS-friendly, it may never reach a recruiter.
Here’s how to get your resume read by an ATS:
- Use a Clean Format: Avoid fancy designs, graphics, or unusual fonts that ATS systems can’t read.
- Include Relevant Keywords: Mirror the language of the job description without keyword stuffing.
- Use Standard Section Headings: The ATS will parse your resume correctly if you stick to sections like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.”
Step 3: Craft a Powerful Opening Section
The first few lines of your resume determine whether a recruiter keeps reading or moves on. Your opening section should be a concise summary of your top skills, achievements, and value to the company.
Example of a strong resume summary:
“Results-driven Marketing Specialist with 5+ years of experience in digital advertising, SEO, and content strategy. Increased organic traffic by 120% and led campaigns that generated $500K+ in revenue. Passionate about data-driven marketing and customer engagement.”
By immediately showcasing your most valuable contributions, you increase the chances of getting your resume read.
Step 4: Focus on Results, Not Just Responsibilities
Recruiters don’t just want to know what you did—they want to know how well you did it. Instead of listing generic job duties, focus on achievements and measurable results.
Weak Example:
- Managed social media accounts.
Strong Example:
- Increased social media engagement by 75% in six months, driving a 40% increase in lead generation.
When you highlight specific achievements, recruiters are more likely to read your resume and consider you for the role.
Step 5: Customize Your Resume for Every Job Application
A one-size-fits-all resume won’t work. Each job posting is unique, and so should your resume. To get your resume read, tailor it to each position by:
- Adjust your skills section to reflect the most relevant qualifications.
- Rewriting bullet points to highlight experiences that match the job requirements.
- Updating your resume summary to align with the employer’s needs.
If you’re wondering how to get your resume read, the answer is simple: Make it easy for recruiters to see your value. Use relevant keywords, optimize for ATS, and focus on achievements. By following these steps, your resume won’t just get read—it will get you interviews.
Now, take a fresh look at your resume. Does it meet these criteria? If not, it’s time for a rewrite!
You can also check out this post: How to Write a Resume that Lands You Remote Jobs. It has you covered getting started.
