Send out dozens of resumes for job openings – only to be completely ignored by prospective employers? You could be applying for the wrong jobs in Houston, Texas, or your resume might be getting in the way of your chances. If it’s the latter, here are some tips to help make sure your resume stands out – and gets noticed.

Ditch your old resume.

If you’re really not getting any results from your resume, then it’s time to ditch it. Start over from scratch. It’s a new year – and it’s time for a new resume.

Try a different format.

The most common format of a resume is chronological – in other words, your work history is listed starting from your most recent position and goes backward from there.

Some other resume formats to try include:

1. Functional – A functional resume focuses on your experience and skills, instead of on your chronological work history.
2. Combination – A combination resume lists your skills and experience first, and then your employment history after. It’s a combination of a functional and chronological resume.
3. Targeted – A targeted resume is customized so that it highlights the specific skills and experience you have that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. It takes longer to write, but can be more effective.

Get rid of the vague phrases and clichés.

Don’t say things like “goal oriented” and “team player,” unless you have a specific example or accomplishment you can list to back up these claims.

Show employers what’s in it for them.

Don’t just list the duties you are or were responsible for in your current or past jobs in Houston, Texas. Also demonstrate what specific results you achieved in those positions. It’s even better if you can put a number on it – such as “increased sales by 5%.”

Explain the gaps.

Unexplained employment gaps are a big red flag for employers – so explain yours. If you left the workforce for several years to care for children, or if you were laid off due to the economy, then explain that in your cover letter. Don’t just hope the employer won’t notice. They will. Trust us.

Put it away.

That’s right. Take your resume and stick it in a drawer or file it away for a couple of days. Then come back and take a look at it with fresh eyes. You’ll be shocked at all the inconsistencies and errors you missed the first time around.

And if you’d like help improving your resume – or finding jobs in Houston, Texas, give us a call. Our clients are always looking for talented individuals for a wide variety of permanent, temporary, temp-to-hire, and contract positions.

Submit your resume now.