See your next job through a recruiter’s eyes

Every JD opens with a voice. It might sound stiff, playful, or loaded with corporate jargon. That tone is your first clue to how the team communicates and what kind of personality they hire. Adapt your résumé and cover letter language so it sounds natural inside that environment.

The first three to five bullet points usually cover the core responsibilities of the role. Recruiters skim these before anything else to decide if you fit the basics. Make sure your résumé echoes those specific skills and verbs right at the top of your experience section.

Later bullet points often describe bonus abilities or secondary tools. These are not essential for landing the job, but they help you stand out during interviews. Use them as prompts to show curiosity, willingness to learn, or side projects that connect to those extras.

Applicant Tracking Systems depend on exact keyword matches to shortlist candidates. Read the JD carefully and copy key terms exactly as written, including plurals or abbreviations. Avoid padding your résumé with empty phrases that add no measurable skill.

When a JD says “2–4 years of experience,” it means two is acceptable and four is ideal, not mandatory. If your projects or internships show equivalent depth, apply confidently. Recruiters often value problem-solving ability over the exact length of service.

Words like “self-starter,” “team player,” and “fast learner” are subtle behavioural filters. They hint at what interviewers will test. Prepare one short example that proves each trait, drawn from campus projects, group work, or volunteer experiences.