March 13, 2017 - By Monique Thompson
How to Create a High Impact Résumé
At 1300 Resume, we consistently review client feedback, recruiter insights and industry behaviour to ensure our résumé writing approach remains aligned with employer expectations. Research shows that recruiters spend an average of just six seconds scanning a résumé before deciding whether a candidate progresses. In this short window, many Australians unintentionally make simple résumé mistakes that result in missed opportunities. As one of Australia’s leading providers of professional resume services, résumé writers and career coaching, we are committed to helping jobseekers present documents that are polished, strategic and competitive in today’s employment market.
What Recruiters Really Look For
Eye-tracking research used by recruitment agencies revealed consistent patterns in how hiring managers read résumés. They scan for structure, clarity, relevance, impact and professionalism. They pay immediate attention to job titles, key achievements and the first half of the first page. They lose interest quickly when a résumé is cluttered, poorly formatted or filled with unnecessary information. These insights guide our methodology for crafting résumés that appeal to corporate employers, government recruiters and hiring managers across Australia.
Top Tips for Creating a High Impact Résumé
Use a clean and logical layout
A clear structure and professional font significantly improve readability. Avoid excessive graphics, decorative colours or formatting that may interfere with ATS scanning. A modern, well-organised design helps employers identify your strengths immediately.
Start with a strong professional profile
Your opening statement is often the deciding factor in whether a recruiter keeps reading. It should describe your experience level, core strengths, industry expertise and value proposition. This is especially important for competitive markets such as Melbourne resume writing, corporate recruitment and government applications.
Maximise the first two pages
Recruiters focus on the top half of page one and scan page two for achievements, skills and key responsibilities. Avoid burying your strongest content. Structure your résumé so your most relevant experience and accomplishments appear early.
Use a professional photo if appropriate
While not always required, some industries prefer a headshot. If you include one, it must be high-quality and professional. Never use casual photos or selfies. Your résumé represents your personal brand.
Be honest and consistent
Never exaggerate or misrepresent your experience. Recruiters verify information through LinkedIn, behavioural interviews and reference checks. Integrity matters.
Common Résumé Mistakes to Avoid
Monique Thompson, Director of 1300 Resume, has reviewed thousands of résumés across her 30-year career. She frequently sees talented candidates lose opportunities due to avoidable mistakes. The most common errors include:
- Spelling and grammatical mistakes
- Unattractive or outdated layouts
- Listing irrelevant hobbies, such as drinking with mates or shopping
- Including unnecessary personal information
- Résumés that are far too long (some exceeding 16 pages)
- Using inappropriate email addresses such as blueeyes@hotmail.com
- Formatting documents entirely in Comic Sans, italics or cluttered designs
Monique explains that your résumé is your first opportunity to demonstrate professionalism. If it is difficult to read or contains unnecessary details, employers will quickly disengage. Creative résumés may work for marketing or media roles, but only when the candidate has the technical ability to support the design.
Why an Achievement-Based Résumé Has Greater Impact
Achievement-based résumés showcase your value, not just your responsibilities. Employers are increasingly seeking candidates who contribute to improved performance, efficiency, customer experience, safety or organisational outcomes. Highlighting measurable achievements demonstrates initiative and capability, separating you from other applicants.
This approach is highly effective for corporate roles, government applications requiring selection criteria, competitive graduate programs and senior leadership positions. It also strengthens alignment with your LinkedIn profile and interview responses.
Partner with Australia’s Leading Résumé Writers
If you are searching for professional resume services near me, resume help near me, Melbourne resume writing experts or a trusted resume company, 1300 Resume is Australia’s leading provider of tailored career documents. Our team of pro resume writers, career coaches and interview preparation specialists deliver personalised support that helps clients secure interviews and advance their careers.
We offer professionally crafted résumés, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, selection criteria responses and job application support for clients across all industries and experience levels. With more than 10,000 Australians assisted since 1995 and an exceptional 98.5 percent success rate, we are committed to helping every client achieve outstanding career results.
Call 1300 RESUME or email us for a complimentary project critique or personalised quotation. We look forward to adding you to our growing list of success stories.