The first step in any new job hunt or career change is to freshen up or create a new resume. Here are proven tips from Jenny Foss to make your resume stand out for that next interview. If you are interested in working in the travel industry, then the steps are just as simple.

Skills and Value

Highlighting your unique skills and the value you bring the company is the first step in creating a resume. Use a resume template that is easy to read and uses all the real estate on the page.  That said, make sure your resume is no more than two pages in length. Be sure to sue an 11 or 12 size font for easy reading by the reviewer. Only include “technology proficiencies” if you can fit it easily on the second page.

For the travel industry, it is usually understood that the average applicant is knowledgeable in Microsoft applications, etc. However, if you are an entertainer for a resort or cruise line, then you will want to highlight your last paying gigs on the resume.  Include a “Skills Section,” if your talents go above and beyond the normal range as a performer.  Your value and job skills need to be near the beginning of your first page and highlighted. Make sure to research the travel job you are applying for and match those skills with your resume highlights.

Employment Gaps

With the recent pandemic, many job seekers will have gaps in employment for various reasons. Handling gaps depends upon your specific situation, such as childcare, relocation for a spouse, or being laid off. Explaining the gap depends upon the amount of time that has elapsed, the industry, and if you’re changing careers. There are many ways to address gaps on a resume. Be prepared to tell your story at the interview in a succinct manner.

Grammar and Organization

Finally, proofread your resume very carefully. Have a friend or colleague proofread for typos and continuity. A recent poll on LinkedIn taken stated that hiring managers felt that zero mistakes or typos should appear on resumes. I have found setting your resume aside for a few days, and coming back with fresh eyes also helps spot mistakes. Be sure the organization follows the template so the most prominent skills for that specific travel job in the job description match the skills in on your resume. Don’t lie, but matching descriptive words will help the resume scanning software place you in the top pile for a potential interview.

Review the job description carefully and be sure to tailor your resume for each travel job you apply for. The ATS or applicant tracking system will thank you, and you will land that coveted interview. Include the keywords that are used in the job posting on your resume for best results.

Finally, save your resume as a PDF and word document.  Different companies use different formatting when resumes are submitted online. Always double check your download before you click submit for the cleanest and most reader-friendly resume.   Good Luck!