How to Write a Killer Title for Resume that Stands Out!

Writing a killer title for a resume will make your application stand out in a crowd. The biggest issue was that in the past, applications were generic, and resumes followed a specific standard. The problem with traditional resumes is that most people still follow this method so your resume will look the same as a hundred others.  

The key is to strengthen your resume with a title that stands out. When the hiring manager sees your resume, you want it to instantly grab their interest. I know. That seems impossible with a title, right? It’s actually much easier than you think! Let’s look at the process of crafting the best title for a resume.  

Why a Title is Important 

A title reaches out to the reader and demands attention while also serving as your introduction. It’s quite similar to a news headline. It tells the reader what to expect in a compelling way by just using the title. Your resume should follow that pattern.  

Assume that a hiring manager is only going to look at your resume for 10 seconds. That’s how long you have to grab their attention. 

Job Candidates with Little Experience can Showcase their Skills With a Powerful Resume! 

Are you qualified for a job position but lack experience? If so, then a resume is a great way to showcase your skillset! It can prove to the hiring agent that you’re innovative, imaginative, and are willing to go above and beyond. Writing a compelling title will give you a lasting impression on a hiring agent!  

Always Do your Homework 

Research the company and learn the exact name they use for the job you’re applying to. This will help you use the most powerful words in your title and also shows that you took the time to properly research the company. Furthermore, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the job so you can use it in the title.  

The only thing worse than using generic words in the title is phrasing the job position incorrectly.  

Make Sure you Include Keywords 

Find a few specific actionable keywords from the job description and find a way to work them into the title. Keywords are powerful and show the hiring agent that you read the entire description. The job title is generally the most powerful keyword so call attention to your resume.  

Keywords are used in marketing to drive action from consumers. Remember, your resume is your own personal marketing report so these same strategies will work.    

Keywords will also make your title more compatible with the job and highlight your skills in a compelling way. They also give you a way to use fewer words since keywords tend to be actionable. Phrases that are actionable are much shorter than passive statements.  

This strategy also helps your resume get through automated application tracking software since these engines love keywords!  

Format the Title in a Way that Stands Out 

The title for the resume must stand out visually as well as verbally. It needs to demand attention so make sure you use the proper format. Capitalize the words in the same way you would a headline. Use a larger, prominent font so that the title stands out.   

Include Quantifiable Data 

In some cases, including valid data in your resume title will make it soar above others, as long as you can back up that data. The best titles will feature a brief glimpse of who you are and use data to show why you’re a good fit. For instance, if you are applying for a management position then include how many people you’ve managed in the title. Have you been recognized in your industry? Then mention it!  

Make your Resume Titles Unique! 

Think of a resume like a personalized marketing document for your brand. It must stand out. Resume titles that stand out are unique accomplish that goal. So the real challenge is to create a title that uniquely plays up your strengths.  

Avoid Cliché Position Titles 

The traditional approach for resumes was to place a career objective in the title but that is used by so many people that it doesn’t stand out at all. Be more creative in your approach.  

Include a Reference to the Specific Job 

Your entire resume should be targeted to the specific job so make sure the title reflects that. Also try to creatively mix in your career goals to make it shine even further.  

Be Clear and Concise 

Resume titles should provide a tagline that describes the unique skill set you bring to the job. Avoid using generic broad terms like “hard-working” and be specific to the job. Also, emphasize the strengths that you bring to the table.  

Avoid These Costly Mistakes when Writing a Title for Resume 

Here are a few of the most common mistakes that people make when writing a title for their resume. Make sure you avoid them at all costs!  

Mistake #1: Including Objectives in the Title 

This actually used to be a common practice with resumes but today’s approach is much different. The truth is that we’re encouraged to focus on skills and how they make you a great match for the job. In short, a hiring agent only cares about what you bring to the company. Your personal goals are not important for the title. By all means, include goals in the content of your resume but avoid using them in the title.  

Mistake #2: Using Clickbait Titles 

Clickbait is a term used for exaggerated or false headlines that are written in a way to get people to click them. Never use this type of headline on your resume because you’re only going to frustrate job recruiters when your resume doesn’t live up to the hype. A hiring agent will be looking for proof to back up the claim made by the title so be sure you’re honest!  

Mistake #3: Not Customizing a Resume Title 

Again, generic titles are not going to work. In fact, they will have the opposite effect on the hiring agent. With that said, a customized headline that includes actionable keywords will stand out. In most cases, including the job title in an actionable way is enough. Just be sure that the title is written in a way that hooks the hiring agent into wanting to learn more.  

Writing a Killer Title for a Resume will Boost your Career! 

The effects of the latest pandemic have increased the need to stand out in an ever-growing workforce so it’s never been more important to stand out than it is right now. IT professionals are in higher demand than ever with so many companies being forced to stretch their resources as teams work remotely. It’s a huge challenge! 

The best way to stand out is to write a killer title for your resume that compels the hiring agent to dig deeper into your skillset. Just remember that you should never lie or exaggerate. Here’s to success in your job search!