Should your resume match your job description?
Christopher Davis
Updated on March 31, 2026
Key Takeaway. Tailoring your resume to a job description is a must. And it’s the one piece of advice to rule them all. By tailoring your resume to the job description, you signal to the hiring manager that your experience is relevant and that you’re the right person for the job.
How do you match a job description on a resume?
How to tailor your resume
- Review the job description. First, you need to understand what the employer wants and the qualifications required to perform the job.
- Compare your resume.
- Update your summary.
- Customize your work history.
- Include measurable results.
- Update your skills section.
- Proofread your resume.
How do you review a job description?
Guidelines for Reviewing/Writing the Job Descriptions Describe jobs in general terms. Do not provide a list of specific tasks performed. Instead, provide broad explanations of the job. Describe jobs as they exist now, not as they will/may exist in the future.
What does it mean when your resume is in review?
“Under review” is a phrase that typically means your application is being screened by human resources or the hiring manager. “Applicants being selected” indicates that hiring managers are selecting candidates for interviews. “Interview offer” means you have been contacted for an interview.
How can I make my resume stand out?
How to make your resume stand out
- Understand what the hiring manager is looking for.
- Tailor it to your industry and the job you’re applying for.
- Include a header and summary or objective.
- Add pertinent skills.
- Keep it concise.
- Make it visually appealing.
- Submit a cover letter.
- Proofread.
What is the best format to use when submitting a resume?
The safest and most common file format for a resume to use when transmitting your career collateral electronically is an Adobe PDF file. Although you’ll likely have created your resume in Microsoft Word, you’ll save it to PDF format before sending.
How does HR contribute to job description?
Human resources specialists are responsible for recruiting, screening, interviewing and placing workers. They may also handle employee relations, payroll, benefits, and training. They oversee specialists in their duties; consult with executives on strategic planning, and link a company’s management with its employees.
How do you write an internal job description?
How to Write a Job Description
- Job Title. Make your job titles specific.
- Job Summary. Open with a strong, attention-grabbing summary.
- Responsibilities and Duties. Outline the core responsibilities of the position.
- Qualifications and Skills. Include a list of hard and soft skills.
- Salary and Benefits. Include a salary range.
What to look for when reviewing a resume?
Serious contenders customize their resumes, emphasizing those skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the job description you posted. When you review resumes, look for ones that have been clearly crafted with that specific job posting in mind. 4. Pay attention to word choice
What should be included in a job description on a resume?
A resume job description section is the part of your resume where you list your previous jobs, projects, volunteer work and other relevant professional experiences. The goal of the work history section on your resume should be to show the hiring manager that you have the skills and experience to fulfill your work responsibilities successfully.
What happens if you copy a job description on your resume?
A lot of people make the mistake of copying the job description of a job they want into their resume, thinking they will score high with Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) systems. While you might get past the ATS with a resume like that, once a human lays eyes on your resume, you’ll land in the “no” pile.
What makes a resume fail to pass the initial review?
Some resumes may pass your initial review but fail to impress as you dig deeper. If the resume and cover letter appear generic, it’s likely the applicant is sending the exact same document to multiple employers.