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Let’s talk about resumes.
Specifically, the kind that actually get you to the interview.
In the second episode of my Secure the Damn Job podcast series, I’m breaking down what works, what doesn’t, and how to write a resume that doesn’t get tossed before a real person even sees it.
Because here’s the deal: job searching is not a sprint. It’s not even a jog. It’s a 30,000-meter speed walk.
So if you’re feeling discouraged after submitting application #17 and still hearing crickets, you’re not alone. But also? You might need to check your resume strategy.
Let’s fix that.
1. Stop sending the same resume to every job.
You wouldn’t wear a sundress to a black tie event, a job interview, and a basketball game, right?
So why are you using the same resume for every role?
Each job deserves its own tailored version. That doesn’t mean rewriting from scratch every time—but it does mean adjusting the language, highlighting the most relevant experiences, and aligning it with the role.
Pro tip: save every version. Build your own resume library so when a similar job pops up, you’re not reinventing the wheel.
2. Treat the job description like your North Star.
I’m serious. Read it. Highlight it. Obsess over it.
Employers are literally telling you what they care about most—and they’re often repeating themselves to make sure you catch it. Your job is to mirror that language in your resume. Why?
Because before your resume ever gets to a human, it probably has to pass through an ATS (Applicant Tracking System). That software is scanning for keywords. If your resume doesn’t use them? You’re out before you even begin.
3. Your content should make it obvious that you’re qualified.
Someone with zero knowledge of your field should be able to look at your resume and the job description and immediately see that you’re a match.
That means:
- Ditching jargon only your current team understands
- Using numbers (how many people? what percent increase? how much budget?)
- Showing your impact clearly and concisely
If it sounds like a vague list of duties, rewrite it until it sounds like results.
4. Executive summary > Objective statement
Say it with me: objectives are dead.
Everyone knows your objective is to get the job. You don’t need to say it.
What you do need is an executive summary with 4–5 bullet points at the top of your resume that highlight your strongest, most relevant qualifications.
Think of it like this: if the rest of your resume disappeared in a fire, would those bullets still convince someone to interview you?
If not, rewrite them.
And here’s the cheat code: use the language from the job description. Especially from the first few paragraphs because that’s where the good stuff lives.
A resume isn’t just a list of your experience. It’s a strategic marketing tool. When it’s written well, it helps you stand out in a crowded field and gets you one step closer to the role you really want.
🎧 Listen to the full episode, Resumes That Actually Work, on Five with Fry, wherever you get your podcasts.
And if you’re thinking, “Jen, this is great, but I still need help,” I’ve got you. Head to Hyreable.co to work with me on your resume, cover letter, or interview prep.
Let’s secure the damn job.
