Frequently Asked Questions about Executive Job Searches
Resume Length
Q: How many pages should an executive resume be?
A: It’s pretty common for Executive Resumes to extend to 2 to 3 pages, especially with the rise of AI natural language searches that look for keywords woven into sentences, not just dropped in a keyword bank. Prioritize relevance over retrospective work history.
Executive Resumes can be even longer or include an addendum to showcase relevant transactions, publications, patents, speaking events, and more.
Targeting the Resume
Q: How do I customize my resume for a specific role?
A: Adjust the target title to reflect the exact job title listed in an opening announcement or job description. Rerank keywords and accomplishments to reflect priorities in the job listing. For example, if it is a strategy-heavy role, list strategic planning work earlier. Rename the file with your name, target title, and company.
Avoid using AI to customize the resume. Recruiters report hundreds of easy-to-spot duplicate submissions. It’s tough to stand out as the candidate of choice if you look like everyone else.
Evidence-Based Resumes
Q: How can I emphasize results, going beyond basic responsibilities?
A: Incorporate numbers, dollars, and percents to quantify achievements with metrics and provide proof points. This sets you apart from competitors and validates the investment for hiring authorities.
Summary Section
Q: Do I even need a summary? If so, what's the best approach for a resume summary?
A: At the very least, provide a functional target title and branding statement that highlights impact. For those who wish to provide a broader discussion, you can weave in multidisciplinary expertise, leadership style, EQ, mission, and values. Keep paragraphs 3 to 5 lines (research tells is busy executives don’t read paragraphs longer than 5 lines).
Employment Gaps
Q: How do I handle gaps or career transitions?
A: Best case scenario, fill a current or recent career gap with keyword-rich content related to your target role. This can be accomplished through consulting, volunteering, or professional development. At the very least, provide a career note that explains the gap. Gaps further back often don’t require explanation, since dates can be removed from earlier roles.
ATS / AI Search Optimization
Q: Will my resume pass applicant tracking systems?
A: Avoid tables, columns, and heavy graphic elements. If you decide to use graphics, make sure they are placed behind the text. If you choose to DIY the resume, use standard fonts (Arial, Helvetica, Calibri, Verdana, Cambria, Georgia, Palatino, Trebuchet).
Word works well with most ATS. PDF comes in second, commonly used for more modern systems with the added benefit of protecting your format and content. Avoid Google docs and Google fonts.
Keep in mind, the human reader is the ultimate audience, so don’t let keyword concerns overshadow a compelling career narrative.
Hiring a Writer
Q: What questions should I ask an executive resume writer?
A: Speak directly to your writer about content strategy, their approach to the revision process,
any perceived challenges you may face throughout your job search, and your overall goals. Often, content strategy can help position you to navigate challenges more effectively, accelerate the search, and prepare you for tough interview questions. Also, ask how the writer captures your distinct voice to craft more authentic resumes and LinkedIn profiles.
Keywords / LinkedIn Skills
Q: How do I incorporate keywords effectively?
A: Find 3+ target job listings. They need not be open, but they should reflect the types of roles that interest you. For the best results, personally highlight keywords and soft skills that repeat throughout. Weave keywords naturally into your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Some like to use AI to pull keywords from job listings, but AI can trigger false hits, so go through these suggestions carefully. Avoid using AI to customize the resume to a single job listing. When comparing candidates, the output is shockingly similar across only a handful of LLMs.
On LinkedIn, take it one step further and check the drop-down menu when entering Skills to make sure it triggers hits in the platform.
LinkedIn Alignment
Q: Should my resume match my LinkedIn profile?
A: LinkedIn branding should be consistent with the resume, but not repeat the same content word for word. It should look and sound like the same person, but social media should showcase a first-person, conversational tone and concise content that reflects user habits (40% read from their phones) and the distractions on the LinkedIn platform (messaging, ads, notifications).