Your resume is deemed too unconventional by a recruiter. How can you tailor it to fit their company culture?

1 Understand Culture

To tailor your resume effectively, you must first deeply understand the company's culture. Research their mission statement, core values, and recent news articles to get a sense of what they value in their employees. Pay close attention to the language used on their website and job postings. This will give you clues about the tone and style to emulate in your resume. If they prioritize teamwork and collaboration, highlight your experience working in teams or leading group projects. If innovation is key, showcase your creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

2 Revise Content

Once you grasp the company culture, revisit your resume's content. Start by removing any jargon or slang that may not be well-received or understood. Replace it with industry-standard terminology that aligns with the company's language. If your previous job titles or roles seem too offbeat, find common ground by using more universally recognized titles that still accurately represent your experience. Focus on achievements and responsibilities that reflect the company's values, and quantify your successes with data where possible to provide concrete evidence of your capabilities.

3 Adjust Design

A resume's design can be just as unconventional as its content. If your resume features bold colors, unusual fonts, or creative layouts, consider toning it down. Opt for a clean and professional design that is easy to read and aligns with the company's branding, if applicable. Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman, and ensure the color scheme is subdued and professional. While you may need to conform to a more traditional format, you can still make your resume visually appealing and reflective of your personal brand.

4 Highlight Fit

Demonstrating how you fit into the company culture is crucial. In your resume, directly address how your personal values align with the company's. If they're committed to sustainability, for example, mention your experience with green initiatives or volunteer work with environmental organizations. Tailoring your resume to show that you not only understand the company culture but also live and breathe similar values will make you a more attractive candidate.

5 Showcase Adaptability

Employers value candidates who can adapt to different environments and demands. Use your resume to highlight instances where you've successfully adapted to new situations or embraced change. This could be through taking on new roles, learning new skills, or navigating company restructures. By presenting yourself as adaptable, you reassure the recruiter that, despite an unconventional background, you can thrive within their organization.