Why 97% of Programmer Resumes Get IGNORED

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares essential tips for crafting a standout resume, emphasizing the importance of readability and relevance. He advises tailoring your resume to highlight personal contributions and relevant skills rather than just listing job duties. Key elements include using a professional template, avoiding unnecessary personal details, and incorporating power verbs to describe experiences. The speaker also stresses the value of showcasing personal projects, especially for those without formal experience, and recommends customizing resumes for specific job applications by aligning with the desired skills in job descriptions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Resumes should be readable and well-formatted to make a good first impression on recruiters.
• 📄 Keep your resume concise—ideally one page—especially if you're a recent graduate or junior.
• 💼 Focus on your contributions and experiences rather than the overall team or company achievements.
• 🛠️ Include personal projects on your resume as they are considered relevant experience by recruiters.
• 🎓 If you have a degree in a relevant field, list it higher on your resume; otherwise, include relevant online courses.
• 📧 Ensure your contact details, including email, phone number, LinkedIn, and GitHub, are prominently displayed.
• 🌐 Having a personal portfolio website can showcase your projects and link back to your resume.
• ⚡ Start each bullet point in your experience section with a strong action verb to convey your accomplishments.
• 📊 Where possible, quantify your achievements to demonstrate impact (e.g., 'improved efficiency by 30%').
• ✋ Avoid including hobbies or personal social media on your resume; keep it professional.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of a resume?

The primary purpose of a resume is to effectively communicate your relevant skills, experience, and achievements to potential employers in a clear and concise manner.

Why is readability important in a resume?

Readability is crucial because recruiters review many resumes daily. A resume that is easy to read and well-formatted stands out and creates a positive first impression.

How long should a resume be for a junior or new graduate?

A resume for a junior or new graduate should ideally be one page, as they typically do not have enough relevant experience to justify a two-page document.

What should be emphasized in the experience section of a resume?

In the experience section, you should emphasize your individual contributions rather than describing the team or company's achievements. This highlights your personal impact.

How should experiences be organized in a resume?

Experiences should be organized in order of importance, with the most relevant and significant experiences placed first.

What role do personal projects play in a software engineering resume?

Personal projects are crucial as they can demonstrate relevant coding skills, especially if formal experience is lacking. They are often considered valuable by recruiters.

What contact information is essential to include in a resume?

Essential contact information includes your name, email address, phone number, LinkedIn profile, GitHub account, and optionally a personal portfolio website.

What type of summary should be included at the beginning of a resume?

A brief professional summary that outlines who you are and highlights your core skills should be included at the beginning of your resume.

What are power verbs and why are they important?

Power verbs are strong action words used to start bullet points in your experience section. They convey positive and impactful actions, making your contributions sound more impressive.

How can achievements be quantified on a resume?

Achievements can be quantified by including specific numbers or percentages that demonstrate the impact of your contributions, such as improved team efficiency or user engagement.

Why is it important to tailor a resume for each job application?

Tailoring your resume for each job application ensures that you highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the position, increasing your chances of standing out to recruiters.

What types of information should be avoided in a resume?

Avoid including irrelevant information such as personal hobbies or social media links that do not add value to your application.