Hello Hospitality Professionals,
In our fast-paced industry, making a strong first impression is crucial. When it comes to your resume, you have just about 10 seconds to capture a recruiter’s attention. Yes, you read that right—10 seconds!
I still remember the day I sat across from a hiring manager who had a stack of resumes piled high on her desk. She glanced at each one for no more than a few seconds. It was a startling reminder of just how quickly decisions are made in the hiring process, and then I became a recruiter and realized I do the same thing!
To help you pass this initial scan, here are some top tips:
Key Career Highlights
Start with your key career highlights at the very top. Think of this section as your personal brand statement. What have been your standout moments in the hospitality industry? Whether you successfully managed a major event or significantly improved guest satisfaction scores, make sure these achievements are front and center.
Company and Job Titles
Make it easy for the reader to scan through your past experiences. Use bold or slightly larger fonts for the company names and job titles. This will help recruiters quickly understand where you’ve worked and the roles you’ve filled, without getting bogged down in details.
Bullet Points of Expertise
List your core skills in bullet points, using no more than three to four words for each. For instance, “Guest Relations Expert” or “Revenue Management” quickly conveys your strengths without overwhelming the reader with information.
A Quick Personal Story
I’ll share a quick story from my own experience. Early in my career, I was applying for a role at a prestigious hotel. My resume was jam-packed with details, and I thought it was impressive. However, a mentor advised me to simplify it, focusing on clarity and key achievements instead. Following this advice not only got me an interview but also taught me the art of effective communication.
Remember, your resume is your unique story told in a concise, compelling way. Make sure it reflects your best self.
If you have stories or additional tips to share, feel free to drop them in the comments. We’d love to hear from fellow industry experts.