How to Make Your Resume and LinkedIn Stand Out

The world of job applications has seen significant changes in recent years. One of the most debated topics is the relevance of the cover letter – IS THE COVER LETTER DEAD? Is it a relic of the past, or does it still hold its ground in the digital age? Read on to learn if the cover letter is truly dead and see some effective ways to make your resume, LinkedIn profile, and job applications stand out.

The Evolution of the Cover Letter

Traditionally, the cover letter was a staple of job applications. It provided candidates with an opportunity to introduce themselves, express their enthusiasm, share their personality, – and why they believe they are the perfect fit for the opportunity. However, in the era of online applications and applicant tracking systems (ATS), the role of the cover letter has evolved.

Are Cover Letters Dead?

The answer is not a simple “yes” or “no.” The relevance of cover letters varies depending on the industry, job, and employer. Some key points to consider:

• Industry Expectations: In creative fields, marketing, and sales, cover letters or portfolios are often valued for showcasing an individual’s communication skills. In contrast, tech companies may prioritize resumes and online forms.
• Online Applications and ATS: ATS systems often prioritize resume data, but a well-crafted cover letter can still set you apart if human eyes review your application.

Ways to Make Your Resume and LinkedIn Stand Out

When it comes to your LinkedIn profile, there’s a valuable piece of real estate known as the LinkedIn summary. As aptly put by a LinkedIn expert, “Your summary is your chance to tell your own story – so don’t just use it to list your skills or the job titles you’ve had.”

This succinct advice emphasizes the importance of not leaving your LinkedIn summary blank, a surprisingly common mistake. It’s your opportunity to bring to life why your skills matter and the difference they can make to the people you work with. In essence, your LinkedIn summary is your most personal piece of content marketing, and it’s worth the effort.

In your LinkedIn summary, don’t hesitate to invest some time, try a few drafts, and even run it past people you know. Your ability to craft a compelling narrative in this section can go a long way in making your LinkedIn profile stand out and leave a lasting impression.

If the cover letter is losing its grip, how can you ensure that your resume, LinkedIn profile, and job applications stand out? Here are some strategies:

• Tell Your Story: In your resume and LinkedIn profile, focus on your achievements and challenges overcome. Share specific accomplishments to demonstrate your impact.
• Use Your Voice: Maintain professionalism but let your unique communication style shine through in your resume and LinkedIn content.
• Include Hobbies and Interests: On LinkedIn, the “Interests” section can offer insights into your personality and values.
• Highlight Projects: Showcase side projects and personal initiatives related to your field to demonstrate your dedication and enthusiasm.
• Recommendations and Endorsements: Encourage colleagues and mentors to provide recommendations on LinkedIn, offering insights into your personality and work ethic.
• Visual Content: Utilize visual content on LinkedIn to present your work and interests in a more engaging manner.
• Cultural Fit: Tailor your application to demonstrate how your personality aligns with the company culture and mission.
• Customization: Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile for each application, emphasizing skills and experiences most relevant to the specific position.
• Show Enthusiasm: In your cover letter or application email, express genuine excitement for the role and the company.

In the evolving landscape of job applications, the cover letter is not entirely dead, but its importance has shifted. To stand out, focus on making your resume, LinkedIn profile, and job applications compelling, informative, and reflective of your personality. Tailor your approach to the specific role and industry, and remember that while personality is important, it should complement your qualifications and professionalism. By following these strategies, you can navigate the changing job application landscape and increase your chances of success.

Is the cover letter dead? Discover how to make your resume and LinkedIn profile stand out in modern job applications. For expert assistance, join CMRG talent pool so we can begin to match you with your next dream job.  

Or, if you are looking for a great candidate to make an impact at your organization? Schedule time with our team today!