14 Brilliant Tactics to Improve your Resume to Land a High Pay Job

Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers, so it’s essential to ensure it stands out. Whether you’re looking for a new job, switching careers, or just updating your current resume, small improvements can make a big difference.

From optimizing your formatting to highlighting key skills and accomplishments, there are many ways to refine your resume for maximum impact.

In this guide, learn practical strategies to help you craft a resume that catches the attention of hiring managers and increases your chances of landing an interview. Tune into the best ways to improve your resume and make it truly shine!

Use AI resume builders to refine language and structure

AI tools like Rezi, Zety, or ChatGPT help fix grammar, improve clarity, and make resumes look more professional. They suggest better wording and stronger action verbs. A polished resume makes hiring managers take you more seriously.

If you’re struggling to format your resume or describe your experience well, these tools make the process easier. Better wording and layout can help you get interviews faster.

To learn more: 13 Simple Questions to Ask Yourself When Looking to Change Jobs

Tailor each resume with keyword optimization to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Many companies use software to filter resumes before a human sees them. If your resume doesn’t have the right keywords, it may never reach a hiring manager.

Tools like Jobscan compare your resume to a job description and suggest words to add. This improves your chances of getting noticed. A resume that passes ATS increases your chances of landing a job.

Quantify achievements creatively, even in non-traditional roles

Numbers make accomplishments stand out. Instead of saying you helped with events, show how you improved them. For example, Increased engagement by 150% as a campus event organizer.

Even in small jobs, you can track growth, savings, or efficiency. If you worked in retail, say how many customers you served daily or how much sales increased. Hiring managers like seeing clear results.

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Create a “hidden” skills section with relevant keywords in small text at the bottom to boost ATS compatibility

Some applicant tracking systems scan for keywords but don’t weigh where they appear. Adding small, invisible text with important skills can help your resume get through filters.

This technique increases the chances of a recruiter reading your resume. Use it carefully, so it doesn’t look like you’re stuffing keywords unnaturally. More relevant keywords mean a higher chance of getting interviews.

To learn more: I Hate My Job: How to Tell If It’s Time for a Career Change

Use a storytelling approach by framing experiences as problem-solving narratives

Instead of listing duties, show how you solved problems. Hiring managers want to see how you think and adapt. If you worked in customer service, explain how you handled a tough situation and made things better.

This makes your resume more engaging and memorable. A strong story helps you stand out from other candidates.

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Add a QR code linking to your portfolio, LinkedIn, or a video introduction

A QR code makes it easy for hiring managers to see more of your work. If you have a portfolio, LinkedIn profile, or an introduction video, this adds a personal touch. It shows you’re tech-savvy and willing to go the extra mile.

Recruiters like candidates who make things simple and accessible. More engagement means a better chance at a job offer.

Highlight soft skills through action-based examples instead of just listing them

Instead of saying you’re a “team player,” show how you helped a team succeed. If you’re good at communication, give an example of a time you explained something clearly and avoided confusion.

Action-based examples make soft skills feel real. Hiring managers prefer proof over buzzwords. Showing skills in action makes your resume stronger.

To learn more: Top High Income Skills Without a Degree to Learn

Turn job descriptions into mini case studies, showing impact instead of just duties

Don’t just list tasks—explain how your work made a difference. If you manage inventory, show how you reduced errors or saved money. If you handled scheduling, explain how you made shifts run more smoothly.

Hiring managers want to see results, not just responsibilities. A resume that shows impact stands out more.

To learn more: 32 Best Jobs That Pay Weekly (and What They Pay Per Week)

Use ChatGPT to refine bullet points, making them stronger and more impactful

Bullet points should be short but powerful. ChatGPT can help turn a dull sentence into something that catches attention. Instead of “helped with social media,” it can turn it into “grew social media engagement by 30% in six months.”

Stronger bullet points make resumes look professional. A well-written resume increases interview chances.

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Experiment with non-traditional formats like an infographic resume

If you work in design, marketing, or media, a unique resume can make you stand out. Infographic resumes use visuals to highlight key achievements. They work best for industries that value creativity.

A well-designed resume grabs attention and leaves a lasting impression. Just make sure it’s easy to read and professional.

To learn more: Top Creative Side Hustles for 2025

Include AI-related skills, even if basic

Many jobs now value AI skills, even if you aren’t in tech. Knowing how to use ChatGPT or automation tools can make you more valuable. Employers like candidates who can adapt to new technology.

Even basic AI skills can set you apart from other applicants. Adding this to your resume can help you get higher-paying jobs.

Leverage testimonials in LinkedIn by adding a short, powerful quote from a past boss or mentor

A good word from a past manager makes you look more trustworthy. Adding a quote to LinkedIn shows that others value your work. If you don’t have one, ask a former boss or coworker for a short recommendation.

Employers like seeing real-world proof of your abilities. A strong testimonial can help you land interviews.

Showcase side projects, gigs, or volunteer work to fill employment gaps

If you have time between jobs, side projects, and volunteer work show you stayed active. Freelance gigs, learning new skills, or helping a nonprofit all count. Employers like to see that you take initiative.

Showing experience outside of full-time jobs makes your resume more complete. It can help prove you’re still learning and improving.

To learn more: The Best Side Hustle Ideas to Grow Your Money

Use bolding strategically to highlight key results or important metrics

Bolding makes important details easy to spot. Hiring managers often skim resumes quickly. Use bold for numbers, key skills, or major achievements.

This helps recruiters find what matters most. A well-organized resume makes a stronger impression. More clarity means better job opportunities.

Create a separate “Skills in Action” section with real-world examples of how you applied key skills

A list of skills isn’t enough—show how you used them. If you say you’re good at leadership, include an example of leading a project. If you’re skilled in data analysis, show how your insights improved a process.

Employers want to see real proof of your abilities. A “Skills in Action” section makes your resume more convincing.

Can you make $200k a year with your next job?

Earning $200K a year is possible, but it depends on the industry, skills, and strategy you use. High-paying careers often require specialized knowledge, years of experience, or a shift into in-demand fields like tech, finance, or sales.

Negotiation, networking, and continuous skill-building can also help you reach that income level faster. Whether you’re looking to change careers or level up in your current field, planning and persistence are key.

With the right approach, your next job could get you closer to that $200K goal.

To learn more: 8 Proven Ways on How to Make 200k a Year

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