Why you might not be getting interview calls?

You’re searching for a job, and you find several postings that match your profile. Excited, you sent out your resume and eagerly wait for that interview call. Your hopes are high since you believe your profile is a perfect match. Days go by, but the call never comes. This cycle repeats itself, and eventually, you start losing hope and enthusiasm. You begin to wonder, “If I don’t get a chance, how will I ever prove myself?” It’s easy to blame bad luck, but wait a minute—this might have nothing to do with luck!

The Common Resume Mistake

As recruiters, we receive hundreds of resumes every day, and around 80% of them have the same issue. What’s the problem? It’s the way candidates name their resume files. Many candidates send resumes with file names like “MyResume.pdf” or “Updated_Resume.pdf.”

You might think, “I’m not that careless; my resume has my name on it.” That’s great, but here’s the catch: many candidates send resumes with their names, like “Raj_Resume.pdf.” While this is better, it’s still not good enough.

Why File Names Matter

The problem with these file names is that they don’t convey anything about your profile. And what happens if there’s another candidate named Raj who sends a resume with the same name? Your resume could easily get lost in the mix.

From a recruiter’s perspective, we post job openings for various positions and receive a large number of resumes. We need to open each resume, compare it to the job posting, select the best fits, and schedule interviews. Because the tech market often has urgent needs, we’re usually short on time. If a resume has a clear, descriptive file name, we’re more likely to look at it first to save time.

Importance of a Proper File Name

When you send a resume through email, the subject line, cover letter, and the attached file name are all crucial. We have separate videos on these topics, so be sure to check the links in the description.

But let’s focus on the importance of a proper file name for your resume. When you post your resume on a job portal, recruiters download and store it. If your file name is clear and descriptive, recruiters can quickly locate it and process it immediately. Otherwise, the resume needs to be renamed and sorted, which adds extra work and most likely, your resume will be sidelined.

Even when you send a resume via email, the file name plays a critical role once it’s downloaded.

The Long-Term Benefits

If your resume doesn’t pass the screening for current job postings, a properly named file makes it easier for recruiters to save it for future openings. This is a significant advantage.

How to Name Your Resume File

So, what’s the appropriate file name for your resume to increase your chances of getting an interview call? Your file name should include your full name, qualifications, years of experience, and the job you’re applying for. For example: “Raj_Patel_PowerBI_2Years_Resume.pdf.”

It’s best to always include your full name and the position you’re applying for in the file name. This helps recruiters sort through profiles quickly and makes it easier for them to revisit your resume when new positions open up.

Conclusion

Remember, small details can make a big difference. Naming your resume file correctly might seem minor, but it’s one of those crucial steps that can set you apart. A well-named file not only makes a recruiter’s job easier but also increases the chances that your resume will be noticed, saved, and remembered.