A targeted resume is a kind of resume that is specifically written for a particular job. As the name suggests, it highlights the skills and experience relevant to a particular position. You should tailor your resume to be more relevant to the position you are applying for. It will improve your chances of getting an interview. Since you are making it clear that you have the skills and experience required for the job, the employer would likely notice your resume.
When sending targeted resumes, the candidate will rewrite the resume according to the job role for which he/she is applying. It is very important to take all the time you need to write a targeted resume and it will show the employer clearly why you are fit for a specific job.
Similarly, a targeted letter along with a targeted resume is typically written to accompany your resume while applying for jobs. Most companies usually demand a cover letter and you can use both documents to showcase your qualifications for the job.
How to Write One?
Now the question comes, what is the right way to write a targeted resume? Well, we have pointed out some very efficient steps to help you get started with writing a targeted resume.
Adding Only Necessary Information
You may have a large number of experiences that you would be dying to include in your resume. But trust us this will do no good to your resume as it is of no use to the employer. So, it is better to submit a shorter resume having only what the employer needs. It should be one to two pages at the most. You can write your skills, qualifications, and positions as they are completely relevant.
Example:
An example here is that suppose you are applying for a computer programming job. Now, this can include details like computer-specific courses you have completed or any other computer-relevant skill. But keep in mind it is not necessary to add your early positions like a high-school job at a restaurant or a cashier job unless it shows that those skills are directly related to the position you are applying for.
For any reason, if you feel like you don’t understand what to include and what not to then go through the job description again and see what they are looking for. But never forget the purpose of a targeted resume and write it according to the correct format.
Editing Your Profile According To the Job Role
This is the first step you need to do to grab the attention of the employer. It is a great idea to edit your profile each time you are applying for a job. You need to be very careful in reviewing the job description and find out the kind of experience and skills required by the employer. Then you should add all your skills and other details according to it. Similarly, you can also add a career highlights section depicting the most recent position at the top. This will make your relevant experience more obvious.
Double-Checking Your Resume
If you are not writing your resume for the first time it likely needs any kind of proofreading as you’ve already done it before. But when you are writing a targeted resume, some elements have to be changed even though the rest will be the same. So make sure you have optimized the new version of the position you want carefully. Unlock the secrets of crafting an impressive resume with our handpicked selection of Free Resume Writing Courses.
The best way to make sure your resume has no mistakes is to have a friend or family member read over your resume and the job description. You can also ask them to check for any spelling or grammatical mistakes. In this way, your resume will be much stronger if multiple people have reviewed it.
Always Using the Relevant Keywords
Keep in mind that job-specific resumes should always feature industry keywords so that your potential employer can easily see you have experience in the field. There are many companies out there that use applicant tracking systems that can screen an individual’s resume automatically. So, if your resume has relevant keywords, you get a higher chance of it moving through the system to the employer. And then the employer gets the time to review it through his own eyes.
Targeted Resume Complete Example
Here is a complete example of a targeted resume for the position of chef at a Mexican restaurant;
Emma Maddox
Seattle, WA 98012
(208) 653-1876
Professional Qualifications
- Extensive background in international cuisine
- Gained advanced knowledge of the Mexican language
- Studies in Mexico alongside well-known chef
- Excellent skills in Mexican cuisine
Professional Experience
El Zarape Restaurant
- Recreated the entire Mexican menu in 2018 which led to an increase in sales revenue by 110%
- Mentored 2 junior staff members that resulted in increased productivity by 40%
- Trained staff in the year 2017
Adrian’s Mexican restaurant
- Worked with the head chef on menu design
- Created different processes to track food costs
- Prepared safety protocols
Tips to Write a Targeted Resume
Applying a few tips to your resume can never hurt anyone. Instead, it helps you write your resume more effectively. Below we have listed some tips to help you write the best-targeted resume.
- A targeted resume format should always have impeccable resume sections.
- A targeted resume should always match the job description of your target job.
- Similarly, it should be relevant to the applicant’s niche industry.
- Lastly, your targeted resume should be keyword-optimized.
Final Thoughts:
Always remember when you are writing a targeted resume, you are only showcasing the relevant skills and giving your employer a reason to hire you. It is your job to make it easier for your employer to see your qualifications and skills and that is why you have to take time to tailor your resume accordingly.
