Quick Fix: 10 Ways to Improve Your Resume in an Hour or Less

Job Search Tips / May 28, 2024

Crafting the perfect resume can be daunting, especially in the fast-paced hospitality industry. However, you don’t need days or weeks to make impactful changes. Here are ten quick fixes you can make to enhance your resume in an hour or less.

1. Tailor Your Summary Statement

Your summary statement is the first thing employers see. Tailor it to highlight your hospitality skills and experience. If you can, include analytical results that had an impact in your previous positions. For example:

Before:
“Experienced professional seeking job opportunities.”

After:
“Dynamic hospitality professional with over 5 years of experience in luxury hotel management and guest services, seeking to bring exceptional service and organizational skills to a leading resort.”

2. Highlight Key Achievements

Quantifiable achievements grab attention. Replace vague statements with concrete accomplishments.

Before:
“Responsible for guest satisfaction.”

After:
“Boosted guest satisfaction scores by 20% through personalized service and effective team management.”

3. Use Relevant Keywords

Integrate keywords from the job description to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). For a role in a hotel, keywords might include “guest services,” “front desk operations,” or “event coordination.”

Before:
“Handled various tasks.”

After:
“Managed front desk operations and coordinated events, ensuring seamless guest experiences.”

4. Format for Readability

Ensure your resume is easy to read with clear headings and bullet points. Use a clean, professional font like Arial or Times New Roman, and avoid excessive graphics.

5. Add a Skills Section

Highlight specific skills relevant to hospitality, such as “Customer Service,” “Crisis Management,” “Multilingual Communication,” or “Inventory Management.”

6. Include Certifications and Training

Certifications like ServSafe, AHLEI Training & Certifications, or language courses can set you apart.

Before:
“Trained in safety protocols.”

After:
“Certified in ServSafe, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.”

7. Update Your Contact Information

Ensure your contact details are current and professional. Use a simple, professional email address and include your LinkedIn profile if it’s up to date.

8. Remove Irrelevant Information

Cut out experiences that do not add value to your current job search. Focus on roles that highlight your hospitality expertise.

9. Showcase Soft Skills with Examples

Soft skills are critical in hospitality. Illustrate these with examples.

Before:
“Good communication skills.”

After:
“Enhanced guest relations through effective communication, leading to a 15% increase in repeat bookings.”

10. Proofread for Perfection

Errors can detract from your professionalism. Spend a few minutes proofreading or use tools like Grammarly to catch mistakes.

Final Thoughts

Improving your resume doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With these quick fixes, you can make significant improvements in just an hour. Tailor your content, highlight your achievements, and ensure your resume reflects the skills and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the hospitality industry. Happy job hunting!