Industry-Specific Resume Tips: What Hiring Managers Want to See

A great resume isn’t just about listing your skills - it’s about tailoring them to the industry you’re applying to. Hiring managers in different fields look for specific qualities, experiences, and keywords that signal you're the right fit. Whether you're applying for a role in tech, finance, healthcare, or another industry, here’s how to craft a resume that gets noticed.

1. Technology (IT, Software Development, Data Science)

• Tech hiring managers want to see more than just degrees and certifications. They focus on practical skills, hands-on experience, and problem-solving abilities.

• Highlight Technical Skills Upfront – List programming languages, frameworks, tools, and databases in a dedicated skills section.

• Showcase Projects & Impact – Instead of just listing duties, describe projects and the outcomes. Example: “Developed a machine learning model that increased customer retention by 20%.”

• Include Certifications & GitHub (if applicable) – Certifications like AWS, Google Cloud, or CISSP stand out. If you're a developer, linking to your GitHub or portfolio is a plus.

• Keep It Concise – Tech recruiters scan for relevant skills quickly, so avoid clutter.

Best Resume Format: Reverse-chronological or hybrid (mix of skills & experience).

2. Finance & Accounting

In finance, precision, compliance, and data analysis are key. Hiring managers look for quantifiable achievements and industry knowledge.

• Use Numbers & Metrics – Hiring managers love seeing percentages and figures, like “Reduced operational costs by 15% through process automation.”

• Certifications Matter – If you’re a CPA, CFA, or have an MBA, place these prominently near your name or summary.

• Highlight Compliance & Risk Management – Mention experience with financial regulations, tax laws, and auditing standards.

• Detail Software Expertise – Proficiency in QuickBooks, SAP, Bloomberg Terminal, or Excel modeling can set you apart.

Best Resume Format: Reverse-chronological (emphasizing achievements).

3. Healthcare & Medical Professions

In healthcare, hiring managers value credentials, patient care experience, and adaptability.

• Licenses & Certifications Come First – RN, MD, CNA, or other required credentials should be listed at the top.

• Patient Care & Team Collaboration – Highlight direct patient interactions, teamwork, and adaptability in fast-paced settings.

• HIPAA & Compliance Knowledge – Show familiarity with patient privacy laws and regulations.

• Specialized Skills & Technologies – If applicable, mention expertise in EHR/EMR systems like Epic or Meditech.

Best Resume Format: Reverse-chronological or skills-based (for career changers).

4. Marketing & Advertising

Marketing resumes should showcase creativity, strategy, and data-driven decision-making.

• Highlight Digital Skills – SEO, Google Analytics, PPC, social media marketing, and email campaigns are crucial.

• Showcase Results – Use metrics to demonstrate success. Example: “Increased website traffic by 40% through targeted SEO strategies.”

• Include Portfolio or Campaign Links – If applicable, provide links to your work.

• Soft Skills Matter – Creativity, communication, and storytelling are highly valued in marketing roles.

Best Resume Format: Hybrid (mix of skills, experience, and portfolio links).

5. Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, etc.)

Engineers need to showcase technical expertise, project impact, and problem-solving skills.

• Technical Skills Section is a Must – List CAD software, MATLAB, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or relevant tools.

• Project Experience is Key – Highlight hands-on projects, specifying outcomes and problem-solving aspects.

• Certifications & Licenses Matter – PE (Professional Engineer) or FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) certifications stand out.

• Collaboration & Leadership – Engineering is often team-driven, so emphasize team projects, leadership roles, and process improvements.

Best Resume Format: Reverse-chronological (showcasing projects and results).

6. Human Resources (HR) & Recruiting

HR professionals need to highlight people management, compliance, and HR tech expertise.

• HR Software Experience – Mention familiarity with HRIS, ATS (like Workday or UKG Pro), and payroll systems.

• Compliance & Employment Law – Show knowledge of labor laws, DEI initiatives, and policy development.

• Quantify HR Success – Example: “Reduced turnover by 25% through employee engagement initiatives.”

• Soft Skills Matter – Communication, conflict resolution, and leadership should be emphasized.

Best Resume Format: Hybrid (mix of skills & experience).

Final Resume Tips for Any Industry

• Tailor Each Resume to the Job Description – Use keywords from the job posting to pass the ATS screening.

• Keep It One Page (Unless Senior-Level) – Entry and mid-level roles should fit within a single page; senior roles can extend to two.

• Professional Summary Over Objective – Instead of an objective statement, use a summary highlighting your value proposition.

• Avoid Generic Descriptions – Focus on achievements rather than duties.

A well-crafted resume tailored to your industry makes all the difference. Whether you're in tech, finance, healthcare, or marketing, focusing on the right keywords, metrics, and skills will help you stand out.

Ready to revamp your resume? Start applying these tips today! Wright's Resumes and Connections is here to guide you every step of the way.