What Happens To Your Resume After You Submit It?

Did you ever wonder what happens to your resume after you hit the “submit” button? Does the hiring manager automatically review your application, or do they hold off until they’ve received all submissions? And does an applicant tracking system filter your resume based on certain keywords, or does a human handle the resume screening process?

To answer your most pressing questions, here’s a look at what happens to your resume after you submit it:

It’s true that many companies, particularly larger ones, will use some sort of software application to screen your resume before a human lays eyes on it. The software uses different types of criteria, such as keywords, to target the individuals who seem like the best fit for the position. For that reason, when you are applying for a certain position, take a look at the job posting first and highlight any keywords in it. Then, before submitting your cover letter and resume, make sure some of those keywords and phrases are incorporated into both.

After your resume gets filtered – and if yours makes the cut – it then goes to the hiring manager. The manager will begin the process of screening each one so they can hone in on those who are the strongest fit for the job. Most hiring managers will only spend a few seconds scanning each resume; after all, there are typically a lot to get through. That’s why it’s vital to ensure your resume is in an easy-to-read format, with generous margins, a font size of at least 10.5, bullet points, and bolded job titles. Skip the tiny font size and dense paragraphs. It’s far better to submit a two-page resume that is clear and easy to read, then a resume on one page that’s crammed and cluttered with information.

If a hiring manager thinks you could be a fit for the job, then they’ll call you to schedule a phone screen. More and more, employers are conducting these because they take less time than a face-to-face interview and enable them to create a strong short list of candidates to bring in for interviews. A phone screen may take anywhere from 10 minutes to 45 minutes. The end goal, though, is to make a decision about whether or not to invite you in for an interview. So don’t just wing it; prepare for a phone screen just as you would for an in-person interview.

The interview is the next step in the process; although if the employer requires multiple rounds of interviews, skills testing and background checks, it certainly won’t be the last. However, if you’ve made it to this step, then you’re likely on the short list of candidates to hire. So again, make sure you’re well prepared for the interview and present a polished, professional image.

If you don’t get a call or hear back after the interview, but just get a standard “thank you for applying” letter or email, then the hiring manager may have decided you weren’t the best fit for the job. However, most will keep your resume on file for at least a year should another similar opportunity arise.

Do you need more help polishing your resume and finding great job opportunities? Call Murray Resources. As one of the leading recruiting agencies in Houston, we can assist you with the entire job search process – from crafting a strong resume to preparing for interviews – all so you can find opportunities that are a great fit for your skills and background. Contact us today to learn more.