If your resume doesn't pass the scan, it doesn't get the deeper read. Here's how to check yours and what to fix first.
The 30-second test
Open your resume. Set a timer for 30 seconds. Now answer this:
- What role are you targeting?
- What level are you at?
- What problems do you solve?
- What proof do you have?
If any of those are unclear, your resume is leaking interviews.
What recruiters scan for first
1. Target role clarity
Your headline should make it obvious.
Operations Manager | Process Improvement | Lean Manufacturing
HR Business Partner | Employee Relations | Change Management
Results-driven professional
Dynamic leader
2. Keywords that match the job
Recruiters scan for the same words they see in the job posting: tools, systems, certifications, core skills and industry terms.
If the posting says "stakeholder management" and you wrote "relationship building," you may be missing the match.
3. Proof in the first half page
Your top third needs numbers. Not responsibilities. Use this quick formula:
Action + What you improved + Result
- Reduced onboarding time by 30% by rebuilding the new hire checklist and manager training.
- Increased production output 18% by redesigning shift handoffs and tracking downtime.
- Filled 22 roles in 90 days by tightening intake, sourcing and interview flow.
4. Clean formatting
If it looks hard to read, it is.
- 10 to 12 point font
- Consistent spacing
- Simple section headers
- Bullets that start with verbs
- No walls of text
The fastest fixes you can do today
- Replace your top summary with 3 lines: who you are, what you do, proof.
- Add 6 to 10 keywords from your target job posting.
- Rewrite your first 3 bullets using Action + What + Result.
- Move your strongest win to the top. Not the oldest job.
Quick self-check
If I asked a stranger to read your top half page for 30 seconds, could they tell me:
- Your target role
- Your niche or lane
- Your top 2 strengths
- One measurable win
If not, we fix that.