Resumes Get a Makeover: What Job Seekers Must Know in 2024
The job application landscape is rapidly evolving, and resumes are undergoing a major transformation in 2024.
As companies increasingly leverage AI and automation in hiring, job seekers need to adapt their resumes to stay competitive, according to the latest research and expert insights.
Skills Trump Experience as Hiring Goes High-Tech
With the widening digital skills gap and breakneck pace of technological change, employers are prioritizing skills over experience in 2024.
“Resumes are becoming more skills-focused,” notes Mary Southern, a resume expert. Job seekers should highlight specific hard and soft skills that align with the requirements of roles they’re targeting.
Canva’s recent survey of 5,000 hiring managers and job seekers found that 90% of recruiters now expect and even prefer AI-enhanced resumes.
Tools like resume parsers and skills generators are enabling candidates to optimize their resumes for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
“If there’s something that can make you feel better about [the job seeking] experience, then I think that folks should lean into that,” advises Amy Schultz, Canva’s head of talent acquisition.
Visuals and Storytelling Take Center Stage
Another key shift is the growing importance of visual elements and digital storytelling in resumes. The Canva study revealed that nearly 60% of hiring managers prefer resumes with visuals, and 71% believe purely text-based resumes will be obsolete within five years.
Interactive components like portfolios, infographics and videos allow candidates to weave compelling narratives about their career journeys.
“This trend not only showcases creativity but also provides a more engaging and memorable experience for recruiters,” Southern explains. Video resumes in particular are gaining traction as a dynamic way to demonstrate skills and personality.
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The 7-Second Resume
Despite the rise of visuals, concise and targeted content remains crucial. Recruiters spend an average of just 7.4 seconds scanning a resume, according to the Canva survey. Some experts suggest the real number may be as low as 3-5 seconds.
To make those precious seconds count, job seekers in 2024 need to ruthlessly trim filler and irrelevant details.
Tailor resumes for each specific role using keywords from the job description. Swap outdated objective statements for punchy professional summaries showcasing the value you bring.
Positioning for the Future of Work
As remote and hybrid work become the norm, job seekers should also highlight their virtual collaboration skills and ability to thrive in digital environments.
Inclusive language and diverse achievements are another emerging resume trend, as employers increasingly value equity and inclusion.
“The resume landscape in 2024 is characterized by a blend of innovation, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of what employers are seeking,” sums up Southern.
By embracing these shifts, savvy job seekers can position themselves for success in a rapidly transforming world of work.
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