Write a Targeted Resume That Gets Interviews
Learn how to target your resume to a specific job posting. Create a targeted resume that aligns with the requirements of the job, highlights the right skills and experience, and is optimized for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
How to Target Your Resume for a Specific Job
A targeted resume is a customized version of your resume written to match the requirements of a particular job posting. Learn how to align your work history, skills section, and professional summary with the job description to increase your chances of landing an interview.
Why Targeted Resumes Work
Recruiters and applicant tracking systems look for clear signals that a candidate matches the job requirements. A targeted resume highlights the most relevant experience and uses the same keywords and phrases found in the job ad so your resume ranks higher in ATS searches and resonates with hiring managers.
- Align your resume to the job title and responsibilities
- Include keywords from the job posting in your professional summary and skills section
- Prioritize relevant work experience and quantifiable achievements
Make a Targeted Resume Quickly
Use a master resume as your source of truth. For each application, create a targeted version by selecting the most relevant bullets and rephrasing them to match the requirements of the specific job posting. This approach helps you produce tailored resumes at scale during your job search.
💡 Pro Tip: Our resume templates and resume builder speed up the process and ensure your resume is ATS-friendly.
The Science Behind Resume Optimization
Applicant tracking systems parse resume text for keywords, job titles, and qualifications. Optimizing your resume for ATS means using clear headings, standard section names (like Work Experience and Skills), and including the exact terms used in the job posting.
A targeted resume is a customized version of your resume that increases discoverability and shows you're the right person for the role.
How Tailored Resumes Increase Interview Chances
A resume that aligns with the job requirements shows recruiters and hiring managers you are a qualified candidate. By tailoring your resume to the specific job posting, you increase the chances of getting past ATS filters and reaching the interview stage.
Small changes—matching job titles, adding required software, or quantifying relevant achievements—can make the difference between a generic resume and a targeted resume that gets attention.
Quick Checklist
- Read the job description and highlight keywords
- Adjust your professional summary to reflect the job ad
- Prioritize 3–5 key achievements in the experience section
- Include relevant certifications, tools, and software
Transform Your Resume with Advanced AI
Experience the future of resume creation with our advanced AI tools designed to help you land more interviews
Smart Targeting
Write a targeted resume by matching your experience to the job description and highlighting the most relevant achievements.
ATS Optimization
Ensure your resume parses correctly in applicant tracking systems by using standard section names, keyword placement, and simple formatting.
Resume Score & Feedback
Get actionable feedback to improve keyword coverage, quantify results in your experience section, and refine your professional summary for each role.
Ready to Transform Your Job Search?
Create a targeted resume in minutes using our templates and AI-assisted tools. Start with a master resume and craft a customized version for each job you apply to.
Targeted Resumes FAQ
Everything you need to know about creating effective targeted resumes