Our modern world is so fast-paced that the trends are coming and going all the time, whether they are about the latest fashion, music, or toys (see how fidget spinners have taken over the kids’ world these days). And this tendency to change the trends from time to time also occurs in the recruiting and job hunting space.

It is easy to find various tips and resume writing insights on the Internet, and even a list of federal resume writing services, which is supposed to help boost a job search. But every year changes the job market and it makes resume writing trends modify as well. The question is what is worth doing and what mistakes should be avoided.

Is It Important to Follow Resume Trends?

In order to answer this question, we suggest you ask yourself another question: “Do you want your application to end up in the trash bin?” If your answer is negative, then you need to consider learning about the modern resume ‘standards’ in order to stay up-to-date with your job search and land a decent gig as soon as possible.

Remember that your resume remains the only most significant document in the whole job hunt. And the first impression it’s making on the prospective recruiters is inevitable and remains your best opportunity to grab their attention and get noticed. Therefore, make sure you take advantage of the latest resume trends and avoid the risky ones. Here is what career experts say about the three resume trends that are actually worth following these days.

The First Trend: Short and Precise Resume

Many students have got into a habit of adding flowery language and filler words into their college assignments to help them reach a minimum word count. Well, it’s time to get rid of that routine. Studies prove that hiring managers only spend up to ten seconds reviewing your application document – so you just have no right to waste that precious time creating the content they won’t even read. When cutting down the length of the document, try to make every word count.

Roy Cohen, the author of The Wall Street Professional’s Survival Guide and career coach mentions, “Brief resumes are much easier to read. But they have to include precise and powerful language in order to get to the point right away. A few years ago the trend was to write a long story using numerous examples of your achievements. Nowadays, the main aim is to demonstrate that you are well-qualified to perform the work and why you think you are the perfect fit for the company.”

The format of your resume and the information you would like to include may vary depending on the industry. So, the best option is to ask the company insiders to tell what you should include on your document and which format you should use. The best application documents are those that are short and precise so that they get the message loud and clear. Don’t forget that the recruiters are searching for the applicant who offers better value. If you’re looking for tech job opportunities, you don’t need to indicate whether you participated in a tree-planting event or have finished a short course in basic culinary. Just simply put the skills and certifications that are relevant to the position you are applying for.

The Second Trend: Use Add-ons

You can hyperlink so many additional resources to your resume. For instance, you may want to add a video cover letter to grab the employer’s attention and let them learn more about you than they would by looking through your resume. Recording such videos can help a candidate demonstrate their communication style, personality, and why they are the best person for the position. For creative industries, go for a digital portfolio of your previous work and hyperlink it so that employers can see it.

The Third Trend: Use Hyperlinks

Do you want your resume to stay concise and be informative at the same time? Provide hyperlinks to resources and relevant information. A hyperlink will give you the freedom to reference a bigger and more important item yet the document will remain short. This way a recruiter who wants to dig deeper into your qualifications and background can use hyperlinks to find all the necessary information.

All resume trends can’t be treated equally. Make sure you followed the trends that will transform your resume into a powerful marketing document.