Main image of article What is the Purpose of a Resume in Tech?

If you’re applying for jobs, you know that a well-crafted resume is absolutely critical if you want to land virtually any position. Moreover, you should see every resume submission as yet another opportunity to neatly show off your skills, experience, and qualifications.

While this might seem obvious, you still see many people online questioning the value of a resume as an integral part of the job hunt (Google “Do I really need a resume?” and see for yourself). In the following article, we’ll break down the purpose of a resume and how it can help you find the tech job of your dreams.

What is the purpose of a resume in tech?

Your resume serves several key purposes in your tech job search:

  • Gets Your Foot in the Door: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) often scan resumes for keywords and qualifications listed in job descriptions. A well-optimized resume increases your chances of getting noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.

  • Showcases Your Value Proposition: Your resume is your opportunity to tell your professional story and highlight the unique skills and experiences that make you a valuable asset to a tech company.
     
  • Lands You Interviews: A compelling resume piques the hiring manager's interest and convinces them to schedule an interview to learn more about you and your qualifications.

How Are Resumes Used by Job Applicants?

Applicants in tech leverage their resumes in several ways:
 

  • Applying for Jobs: Of course, this is the primary function. You submit your resume along with a cover letter to express your interest in a specific tech position.
     
  • Networking: When attending industry events or connecting with professionals online, your resume can serve as a quick and informative way to share your background and spark conversations.
     
  • Securing Freelance Gigs: Freelancers can use their resumes to showcase their expertise and attract potential clients in the tech industry.

How Are Resumes Used by Tech Employers?

Tech employers rely on resumes to efficiently screen a large pool of applicants:

  • Initial Screening: Recruiters and hiring managers use resumes to assess if an applicant possesses the essential skills and experience required for the job description.
     
  • Shortlisting Candidates: Based on the resume, employers shortlist qualified applicants for further evaluation through interviews or skills assessments.

  • Understanding Your Background: Your resume provides employers with a clear picture of your professional journey, allowing them to assess your potential fit within their team.

How Can an Optimized Resume Land You a Dream Job in Tech?

Crafting an optimized resume significantly increases your chances of securing a tech interview. Here are some key things to focus on:

  • Quantifying Your Achievements: Use numbers and metrics to showcase the impact you've made in previous roles. For example, “Increased website traffic by 20 percent” demonstrates the value you bring.

  • Keywords and Action Verbs: Integrate relevant keywords and action verbs that showcase your technical proficiency and problem-solving skills.

  • Clear and Concise Formatting: Maintain a clean and professional format with easy-to-read fonts and headings for optimal readability by both humans and ATS systems.

  • Proofreading and Editing: Ensure your resume is free of typos and grammatical errors. A polished resume shows attention to detail and professionalism.

By following these tips and leveraging the full potential of your resume, you can effectively navigate the tech job market and position yourself as a top candidate for your dream job.

Don’t Forget Your Cover Letter

Bottom line: your resume is your curated professional story, highlighting your skills and experience (both technical and soft skills), including relevant work experiences and quantifiable achievements. But a resume isn’t complete unless you also include a cover letter, which gives you the chance to humanize yourself a bit. 

You might think of a cover letter as a stogy relic of a bygone age, but it’s actually a really useful tool. For starters, it allows you to tailor your message to the specific job, demonstrating how your unique skills and experience directly address the employer's needs. It's also your chance to explain any employment gaps and elaborate on your accomplishments beyond the bullet points.

Remember, even with ATS, there's a human element to hiring. A strong resume and cover letter will get your foot in the door, allowing you to showcase your true talents during the interview.