Crafting the Perfect Resume

We get it — the summer internship hustle is real, and competition is cutthroat. But here’s the truth: a standout resume can be your golden ticket to landing that dream role. So, how do you rise above the rest? We’re breaking it down step by step to help you build a resume that gets you noticed — and gets you in.

1️⃣ Optimize for ATS with the Right Keywords

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes before a human ever sees them, so using the right keywords is crucial to getting past this digital gatekeeper. The trick? Mirror the language in the job description. If the posting mentions skills like “project management,” “digital marketing,” or “data analysis,” and you have those experiences, incorporate them naturally into your resume. 

ATS software prioritizes resumes that closely match the job description, so strategically placing these keywords increases your chances of making it to the next round.

2️⃣ Get Specific with Metrics

When it comes to your accomplishments, details matter. Don’t just say, “I helped increase sales” or “I assisted with a marketing campaign.” Be specific! Use numbers to quantify your impact. Did you increase sales by 20%? Did your social media strategy boost engagement by 500%? Whatever it is, metrics speak louder than words.

For example:

• “Increased social media engagement by 30% over 3 months by creating engaging content.”

• “Led a team of 5 to launch a project that resulted in a 15% revenue increase.”

This shows potential employers that you’re results-driven and have tangible proof of your success. That’s the kind of thing that catches attention!

3️⃣ Keep It Simple with a ATS-Friendly Template

Let's talk about the design: You want a clean, easy-to-read layout. Fancy fonts, graphics, and overly complex layouts can confuse ATS software, potentially causing your resume to be overlooked. While it’s important to be creative in your approach, you want your experience and skills to be the focus. Instead, stick to a clean, easy-to-read template that puts your skills and experience front and center. A straightforward format not only helps ATS scan your resume correctly but also makes it easier for hiring managers to quickly spot your key strengths.

If you’re looking for an easy way to build your resume, our Resume Studio can help you create a polished and professional resume without any hassle. Plus, it’ll ensure your formatting is consistent and modern.

4️⃣ Tailor Your Resume for Each Role

One size does not fit all when it comes to resumes. Take the time to tailor your resume for each internship you apply to. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific job. If the internship is in marketing, emphasize your social media or content creation skills. If it’s in finance, highlight your analytical skills and relevant coursework.

Customizing your resume shows that you’ve put in the effort to align yourself with the role—and that’s always noticed. Plus, our Resume Studio helps you keep all your different resume versions organized so you can easily switch between tailored resumes and be ready for any opportunity that comes your way!

6️⃣ Keep It to One Page 

Especially as college students just starting our careers’, one page is plenty. Keep your resume concise and focused. You don’t need to list every single part-time job you’ve had since high school. Focus on relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments that align with the internship you’re applying for.

Oh, and don’t forget your contact info! Make sure your name, phone number, LinkedIn (which you should have), and portfolio link (if you've got some awesome work to show off) are all front and center. Keep it simple, easy to find, and ready to impress!

Final Thoughts

Your resume is more than a list of experiences — it’s your personal highlight reel. Keep it clean, make it measurable, and tailor it for every opportunity. A little extra effort here can open big doors.