What Recruiters Actually Look For
A resume has one job: to get you an interview. Recruiters skim for a few seconds, so clarity and relevant results matter far more than fancy design.
The strongest resumes are easy to scan, tailored to the role, and full of concrete achievements rather than vague duties.
Step-by-Step Guide
Build your resume with this structure:
Lead with a clear summary
Two lines stating who you are and the value you bring, tailored to the job you want.
Show results, not tasks
Instead of 'handled sales', write 'grew sales 20% in 6 months'. Numbers grab attention.
Tailor to each role
Mirror the keywords from the job description so both humans and screening systems see a match.
Export as a PDF
Save as PDF so your layout looks identical everywhere and can't be accidentally edited.
Get an editable copy
Have a PDF resume to update? Use the PDF to Word tool to make it editable again.
Open PDF to Word tool →Resume Do's and Don'ts
Small choices make a big difference:
- Keep it to 1–2 pages: concise and relevant beats long and generic.
- Use a clean layout: clear headings and consistent spacing help fast skimming.
- Proofread carefully: typos undermine an otherwise strong resume.
- Send a PDF: it preserves your formatting across every device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I send my resume as Word or PDF?
PDF is safer — it keeps your formatting intact everywhere and prevents accidental edits, unless the employer specifically asks for Word.
How long should a resume be?
One page for most people; two if you have extensive relevant experience. Keep it focused on the target role.