At the start of a new year, many people are on the hunt for new jobs, whether they’re seeking fresh challenges or higher salaries. This period can be hectic for job seekers and hiring managers alike. While the idea of starting a new position is thrilling, the job search process can often be daunting and exhausting. If you’re unsure how to make a strong impression on HR representatives, recruiters, and hiring managers, the job search can become even more difficult. To understand what hiring professionals are seeking in 2025, we consulted HR representatives and managers who shared valuable insights.
Keep in mind that the relevance of these tips can vary depending on your specific industry, so it’s wise to adhere to best practices in your field and seek advice from mentors if needed.
1. Keep your résumé concise. Ensure it doesn’t exceed two pages, regardless of your work history, and double-check for spelling errors. —Stacey, Business Office Manager
2. Customize your cover letter for each application. Avoid using generic cover letters that might reference incorrect companies or positions, as this suggests a lack of attention to detail. —Diane, Director
3. Be selective in your applications. Don’t apply indiscriminately to every position at a company. Instead, focus on how your skills can benefit the organization. —Julie, HR Generalist
4. Address any employment gaps or frequent job changes in your cover letter. Explain your transitions to avoid being automatically overlooked. Highlight relevant experience and keep your résumé clear and easy to read. —Kristen, Head of HR
5. Refrain from constantly contacting HR about your application status. Patience is essential, as many systems delay rejection notifications to avoid immediate responses. —Erin, Human Resources Manager
6. Tailor your résumé for each job. Align your achievements with the job requirements to stand out. —Erin, Human Resources Manager
7. Research the company before interviews. Familiarize yourself with the company’s operations and values to demonstrate your interest. —Erin, Human Resources Manager
8. Keep an open mind and consider learning new skills. The demand for practical skills, especially in trades, is growing. —Heath, Assistant HR Manager
9. Avoid including a headshot or outdated information on your résumé. Such details can introduce bias. Focus on clearly presenting your accomplishments. —Amy, Senior Recruiter
10. Keep personal interests off your résumé unless they’re relevant. Irrelevant personal details rarely influence hiring decisions. —David, HR Manager
11. Dress appropriately for interviews. First impressions matter, and professional attire is crucial in many fields. —metrofan
12. Don’t over-rely on AI for writing applications. Always review and personalize any generated content. —dizzymatcha736
13. Use keywords from the job description in your résumé. Highlight any experience that matches the job’s requirements. —a42fc3f2a0
14. Emphasize achievements on your résumé. Where possible, quantify your impact with data to illustrate your contributions. —andyetyouclicked and patrisiabb13
15. Regularly check your spam folder and voicemails for potential job communications. You might miss important messages otherwise.