How to Create the Perfect Resume (Step-by-Step)

Creating the perfect resume is less about creativity and more about following a structured process. Let’s walk through how to craft a standout resume, using a real example from a recent webinar where I worked with a candidate, a software engineer, which we will call "Ashish", to transform his resume into one that aligned with his career goals.

Step 1: Identify a Cluster of Positions

The first step was identifying a cluster of positions Ashish was interested in. We found several roles related to Software Engineer positions, including one on the Maps Search Team at Apple. This gave us a clear target, focusing on the skills and experiences required for these positions, such as machine learning, cloud infrastructure, and scalable systems. By identifying this cluster, we ensured that Ashish’s resume would speak to the right opportunities. You can identify the optimal position using manual search or automatic tools such as applicationowl.com

Step 2: Use a Standard Template

Next, we restructured Ashish’s resume into a more standard format. A key issue with Ashish’s original resume was the lack of a Summary section. Without this, it wasn’t clear that he was passionate about these roles, given his varied experience. Adding a summary allowed us to quickly showcase his enthusiasm for machine learning and search technology, setting the tone for the rest of the resume.

Step 3: Create a List of Gaps

Once the template was in place, we created a detailed list of gaps in Ashish’s resume. This list was built using both peer feedback and automatic tools like Application Owl. Some of the key gaps we identified included:

• Lack of metrics: His resume had no quantifiable achievements.

• Vague descriptions: Many bullet points were too general and it wasn't clear what Ashish actually worked on.

  
  

Step 4: Provide Answers to the Gaps

Next, we addressed each of these gaps one by one. For example, we made sure to quantify Ashish’s achievements by adding metrics like “reduced processing time by 30%”. We also provided detailed descriptions for vague statements, like turning “worked on software projects” into “led the development of cloud-based software tools, improving scalability and efficiency”.

The list of gaps and solutions were then fed into an AI tool to help rewrite sections of the resume with greater clarity and impact.

Step 5: Rewrite Section by Section

Using the problems and solutions we identified, we went section by section, rewriting the resume. For each gap, we applied the solution to ensure that every part of the resume was aligned with the target positions. We revised Ashish’s experience section, for example, to showcase his independence to meet an L4 level, highlighting how his work directly contributed to the success of past employers.

By the end of each section rewrite, we asked the AI if additional information would strengthen the section and provided it with extra details as needed. We also allowed it to generate content in cases where information was missing, which we later reviewed and corrected.

Step 6: Review and Final Pass

Finally, we circled back to step 3, reviewing the resume again to ensure that no new gaps had been created in the rewrite process. We also checked for any errors or misleading information, making sure that Ashish’s resume was accurate, concise, and fully aligned with the cluster of positions he was targeting.

Conclusion

Creating a resume doesn’t require a high level of creativity. Instead, it demands a careful process and an understanding of what makes a resume successful. By identifying a cluster of roles, using a clear template, addressing gaps, and refining each section, you can build a resume that highlights your skills and puts forward the best version of yourself given your experience—just like Ashish.