It may take hours to perfect your resume. It is not a reason to redo everything once it is complete. It is essential to edit it with fresh eyes, perhaps a few days after it was written. This will allow you to view it from an outsider’s point of view. Each detail on the application paper is essential. The HR may only be able to see your pieces after a 20-second scan.

Your resume should be edited in a way that highlights your critical skills are easily visible. To ensure a successful resume, make sure you take into consideration the following:

1. Consistency

Everything must be consistent, from the layout of the copy to the grammatical structure. To make an excellent first impression, consistency is critical. It shows your trustworthiness and credibility. If you don’t want your application papers to go in the trash, make sure it has impeccable grammar.

2. Specific and custom-made

You should never use the same resume to apply for two jobs. This will not give you a good impression. The hiring manager may think you have included irrelevant background or skills, as you don’t have anything else to put on your resume. Your resume should be tailored to meet the needs of your employer.

3. Complete

Don’t leave any gaps in your background and history. You can cover them with humor, but not truthfully. It’s possible to write “freelancer” or “studying for a degree.” If you don’t have any other options, indicate that you are unemployed. Hiring managers are well aware that lying applicants have the ability to hide details. They will be suspicious if there is a long gap in your past.

4. Professional and clean

The job market isn’t a game. This is not the place to use colorful gimmicks. You can’t use flashy fonts or colorful borders and/or dividers. You will be noticed, yes, but it will not go beyond the quagmire of HR department confetti.

5. Clever

You will be able to compare your application with other applicants’ papers and get the job you want. If you want to achieve outstanding results, make sure your application is unique and compelling. The people at the top are only interested in the best.

6. Take into account

Respect your employer’s time. Accept that your employer can only give you a 30-second overview of your resume. This will allow you to maximize your time and help them focus on the essential things. It actually pays off.

7. Compelling

Good news: Applicants naturally know what employers want to hear. The bad news is that they don’t always follow this instinct. Know the culture and personality of the company that you are applying for, and use your common sense. You should tell them what you think they need to know about your character. You can only make a compelling and memorable resume if you tell them what is most important to them.

Melinda Edwards is a career consultant. She has been invited to many events and forums on human resource management. She is also a time management expert and effectively fulfills both her career as a mother and as a career woman.