Make this one change on your resume for more interviews

One change you can make right now to improve your interview callback rate

Applying for jobs is a numbers game. The more applications you put in, the more callbacks you should get (theoretically).

With that being said, there are certain factors that can impact the callback rate - the number of calls you get versus the number of total applications you submit.

The one factor that has the biggest impact on callback rate is layout. Here’s why - many folks fall for fancy templates they see online (Etsy and Canva are notoriously bad for this). These templates look neat, as you can see in the example below.

The problem with these templates is three words: Applicant Tracking Systems.

Or ATS for short.

These systems are essentially databases - they store the information from your resume when you submit it, and present it to the recruiter when they’re looking for candidates.

There are at least 20 ATS that I know of, each made by a different company. One thing many of them have in common is the way they read data off your resume.

See, for some reason, they can’t read data unless it’s presented a certain way: In a single column layout, with clear section headers like Experience and Education, and without fancy graphics, logos, tables, or charts.

Not to mention the fact that because most recruiters have gotten used to reading resumes this way (top to bottom, left to right), anything you do to try to “stand out” will only make their job harder - bad for you.

So what to do. Simple. Use a plain format. People I’ve spoken with that have made this one switch started seeing results in no time. Here’s what such a format looks like 👇🏻

You can create an ATS friendly resume using either Microsoft Word or Google Docs. If you want most of the legwork done for you, check out Resumatic, which is where the sample above was taken (Use promo code jsg30 for 30% off a lifetime license).

If you’re using a dual-column resume, make the change and I guarantee you’ll see better results than what you were getting before.

5 questions you should ask recruiters during an interview (and why)

#1 What are the biggest challenges the person in this role will face?

Why

Understanding the challenges of the role can help you assess whether you have the right skills and experience to address them. It also gives you a little insight into the realities of the position that may not be evident from the job description.

How you benefit

You will learn about the difficulties inherent in the role, the complexity of tasks, potential stress factors, and the problem-solving opportunities that will allow you to showcase your abilities.

#2 Can you walk me through a typical day for someone in this position?

Why

This question is all about giving you a clear picture of what your daily tasks would be like and how they match up with your personal work preferences and style. It also shows us that you're curious about the practical side of the job.

How you benefit

Discovering more about the job in terms of day-to-day tasks, workload balance, work pace, and expectations for handling different responsibilities is a great way to figure out if the job is right for you.

#3 What specific metrics will be used to evaluate my performance?

Why

Understanding how your performance will be evaluated shows that you're determined to achieve results. Plus, it gives you a clue as to what your boss is looking for.

How you benefit

You will find out about the key performance indicators (KPIs) for the role, the targets you are expected to meet, and the frequency and process of performance evaluations. This helps in assessing how achievements are recognized and rewarded.

#4 Are there opportunities for cross-functional collaboration within this role?

Why

When you ask about collaboration, it shows you're excited to connect with different teams within the organization and that you thrive in a team-oriented setting. Plus, it gives you a glimpse into how well teams within the company work together.

How you benefit

You’ll discover how teams interact, the scope for learning from different areas of the business, and the potential for broadening your skill set. This can also hint at the company's culture regarding teamwork and integration.

#5 Does this position have a defined career path within the company?

Why

This shows that you’re thinking about a long-term commitment to the company and are interested in growth and advancement. It also indicates to the employer that you have ambition and are looking for a role where you can develop.

How you benefit

You will understand the prospects for progression, the support for professional development, and the potential future roles you might grow into. This is crucial for evaluating whether the company can meet your career aspirations.

Questions from job seekers…

Most of the time when employers ask about gaps in your work history, it's not about grilling you – they're just trying to understand your career story better. They want to make sure there aren't any red flags – like if the gap indicates potential reliability or commitment issues. It's less about suspecting you of something nefarious and more about covering their bases.

If you have a gap in your career, try to spin it into a positive story. Maybe you traveled, pursued some personal projects, or dealt with life's curveballs, all of which can contribute show that you weren’t just twiddling your thumbs.