Highlighting specific terms in a resume can draw the reader’s attention to relevant skills and experience. For example, if a job description emphasizes “project management,” visually emphasizing this term on a resume might increase the likelihood of it being noticed. This practice aims to align an applicant’s qualifications with the requirements outlined by the hiring manager.
This technique can improve the readability and scannability of a resume, particularly for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) which often scan for specific terms. Historically, resumes were primarily reviewed by human resources personnel. With the increasing use of ATS, visual emphasis plays a potentially significant role in ensuring a resume progresses to the next stage of the hiring process. Clear visual cues can also make it easier for recruiters to quickly assess a candidate’s suitability.
