This post was originally published on this site.
Written by Christine Ball, executive director of Career Professionals of Canada
The Canadian job market has evolved and so has the way employers evaluate resumés. Many companies now use applicant tracking systems (ATS) powered by AI to screen applications before a human sees them. To succeed, your resumé must be optimized for these systems, highlight relevant skills, and quickly capture a hiring manager’s attention. At the same time, the widespread use of AI-generated resumés has made it harder to stand out, as applications often follow similar formats and language patterns. To set yourself apart, your resumé needs a strategic and personalized touch.
Here are five key strategies to make your resumé stand out in today’s competitive job market.
1. Optimize for AI and applicant tracking systems
Before reaching a hiring manager, resumés are often scanned by an ATS that filters out unqualified candidates. To improve your visibility, use industry-relevant keywords from the job description. These systems prioritize specific skills, experience, and credentials, so incorporate these naturally into your resumé. Avoid excessive formatting, images, or graphics, which can confuse the system. Instead, opt for a clean, professional layout with clear headings and standard fonts to ensure readability.
2. Use a compelling professional summary
A strong professional summary at the top of your resumé can immediately grab attention. Unlike a traditional objective statement focusing on what you want, a professional summary highlights your offer. This brief but impactful section should reflect your skills, experience, and how you align with the company’s needs. Tailor this summary to each job, incorporating relevant keywords and demonstrating your value. Hiring managers often spend just a few seconds scanning resumés, so this is your opportunity to make a strong first impression.
3. Showcase achievements, not just responsibilities
Many resumés list job duties, but what truly makes an impression is measurable achievements. Instead of stating, “Managed social media accounts,” reframe it as, “Increased social media engagement by 45% in six months through strategic content creation and audience analysis.” Using numbers, percentages, and concrete data points demonstrates your effectiveness and helps hiring managers understand your impact. This approach provides tangible proof of your skills and differentiates you from other candidates with similar job experience.
4. Highlight transferable and future-ready skills
Employers today prioritize candidates with adaptable skills that go beyond technical knowledge. Soft skills like problem-solving, adaptability, communication, and leadership are highly valued, particularly in roles affected by automation and technological advancements. Showcase how you’ve applied these skills through professional experience, volunteer work, or personal projects. If you have certifications or training in AI, data analysis, or other emerging fields, be sure to include them to demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead of industry trends.
5. Customize your resumé for each application
Tailoring your application for each job significantly increases your chances of getting noticed. Carefully review the job description and adjust your resumé to reflect the specific skills and experiences relevant to the role. You don’t need to rewrite everything — just tweak key sections like your professional summary, skills, and relevant experience to align with the company’s needs. This approach not only makes your resumé more relevant but also shows initiative and genuine interest in the position.
As you navigate emerging technologies and tailor your resumé for each role, career development professionals can be invaluable in helping you craft a standout application. They offer expert guidance on optimizing resumés for AI screening, identifying transferable skills, and tailoring applications for different industries. Whether through resumé critiques, interview coaching, or personalized career strategies, these professionals provide valuable insights that give you a competitive edge.
In today’s hiring landscape, a resumé is more than just a list of experiences — it’s a strategic tool that can open doors to new opportunities. By optimizing for AI, emphasizing achievements, and tailoring your application for each role, you can significantly improve your chances of landing interviews and advancing in your career. With the right approach, your resumé won’t just get seen — it will get results.