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Breaking into the job market as a student or recent graduate can feel daunting, especially when today’s workplaces demand more than just good grades and internship experience. Companies are now increasingly embracing hybrid working, digital tools, and even AI-powered workflows, meaning employers are looking for candidates who can keep up with change and contribute from day one. This means your resume needs to show that you’re prepared—not just for a job but for the modern workplace.
Here are five that tips will help you craft a resume that’s clear, relevant, and ready for today’s hiring standards.
1. Show that you're digitally fluent
Today’s employers expect basic digital literacy from all candidates, including students. That means knowing how to communicate, collaborate, and problem-solve using digital tools. Even if you haven’t yet worked in a professional setting, you’ve likely used many of the same platforms through schoolwork, clubs, or personal projects. Mention your comfort with tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Zoom, Trello, Slack, or Canva in a dedicated skills section. But don’t just list them, back them up with examples.
For instance, try something like this:
“Managed group project tasks using Trello, ensuring deadlines were met and team communication stayed on track.”
Highlighting your ability to work effectively in digital environments shows hiring managers you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.
2. Demonstrate adaptability through experience
The modern workplace changes fast. Whether it’s learning new systems, adjusting to hybrid schedules, or picking up new skills on the job, adaptability is one of the most valuable traits you can bring to an employer. Even if you don’t have traditional work experience, you can show adaptability through class projects, campus leadership roles, or volunteering. Did your group have to rework a project last-minute? Did you take over a task outside your comfort zone and succeed?
Try framing your experience like this:
“Adapted to remote learning and led a virtual group presentation using Zoom and collaborative documents, resulting in top project marks.”
These small but real examples show that you’re comfortable navigating change and can still deliver results.
3. Mention AI familiarity where relevant
Artificial intelligence tools are becoming part of the everyday workplace, and while you don’t need to be an AI expert, showing that you’re aware of and comfortable using these tools can give you a competitive edge. Think about tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, Notion AI, or even AI features in Canva or Google Docs. Have you used them to improve writing, generate ideas, organize your studies, or enhance a creative project?
If so, consider adding examples like:
“Used AI-powered writing tools to draft and edit blog content for campus organization, improving clarity and reducing editing time.”
This signals to employers that you’re curious, proactive, and open to learning, exactly the mindset they want in young hires.
4. Tailor your resume for hybrid and flexible roles
As more employers embrace hybrid, remote, and flexible working models, they want to see that you can thrive in those settings. Even if your past roles or experiences weren’t fully remote, look for ways to show that you’re comfortable with flexible working environments.
This could be as simple as referencing tools or communication styles:
“Collaborated with classmates remotely using Google Meet and shared drives to complete final-year research project.”
Or:
“Completed virtual internship with weekly check-ins via Slack and Zoom; received positive feedback for independent time management.”
Including these details shows that you’re ready for the evolving expectations of modern work and won’t need handholding in a flexible role.
5. Keep formatting modern and ATS-friendly
A sleek, modern resume doesn’t mean adding flashy graphics or color; instead, it means keeping your layout clean, structured, and easy to scan, especially by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Many companies use these tools to filter resumes before a human recruiter ever reads them.
Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Calibri, use clear section headings (“Education,” “Core Skills,” “Career Summary”), and avoid columns or tables that might confuse resume-scanning software. Save your resume as a PDF or Word Document to ensure compatibility.
If you want to stand out visually, focus on strong structure and white space rather than design tricks. A clear layout shows professionalism and ensures that your most important achievements don’t get missed.
Andrew Fennell is the founder and director of StandOut CV, a leading CV builder and careers advice website. He is a former recruitment consultant and contributes careers advice to publications like Business Insider, The Guardian, and The Independent.
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