Resume Tips from a Job Recruiter

The job market is always changing, and finding a job during a pandemic can be quite challenging. Here are some tips and advice from Floralyn Melendez-Daley, Recruiter at 9Dot Education Solutions, an organization that supplies HR, accounting, and back-end services for charter schools and non profit organizations.

Photo by Gabrielle Henderson on Unsplash

1. What are some things that you look for in a candidate’s resume?

• Keywords and titles on the resume that relate to the role. Are duties transferable?
• Work history (gaps, tenure, job descriptions/roles for each)
• Education — (if required for the role)
• A good resume format is always helpful for presentation. If they have a good background I will advise redoing the format during the screen.

2. What are some things that always stand out to you in a resume?

• Detailed descriptions of experience.
• Quantifiable items & Achievements listed
• Stability
• Progression in their work history
• Flexibility in their duties.
• Volunteer experience (shows their interest in the community and other ventures)

3. What is the best way for a candidate to explain a gap in their resume?

Honestly and professionally. Everyone has a story. You would be surprised what you will uncover.

4. How would you recommend a candidate to prepare for an interview?

• Research the organization.
• Prep with your recruiter before your call.
• Make a list to share relatable skills and experiences.
• Have questions available that the recruiter was unable to answer/I always have some center questions that I encourage the candidates to verify with the team during the interview process.
• Dress Professionally
• (Virtual) Be early to the call to view your space on video and have a quiet space for the call. No clutter/distracting items behind you for view.

5. What advice would you give a candidate applying for a job?

• Research the organization before applying. You may know someone that works there through LinkedIn.
• Make sure they have a similar company culture as what you strive to be a part of.
• Don’t settle for less. Make it a role that you want to do, not have to do.