10 Best Apps for Visual Resume Creation
Visual resumes can grab a recruiter’s attention in seconds. They combine charts, timelines, and infographics to create a professional and eye-catching presentation. Here’s a quick guide to 10 apps that make crafting a visual resume simple and effective:
- VisualCV: Trusted by 4M+ users, it offers sleek templates and ATS-friendly features, starting at $16/month.
- Resume.io: With 51M+ users, it provides categorized templates and AI tools for $6.24/month (annual plan).
- Zety: Focused on ATS optimization with real-time feedback, starting at $1.95 for 14 days.
- ResumeLab: Offers 21 templates tailored to industries, with a 14-day trial for $2.70.
- Resume Star: Simple, professional templates rated 4.9/5 on the App Store.
- CV Engineer: User-friendly app with AI suggestions, free with optional premium upgrades.
- Canva: Design-focused with millions of visual elements, free or Pro for $120/year.
- Kickresume: 40+ templates and AI tools, starting at $7/month (annual).
- Novoresume: Sleek layouts and content tools, starting at $19.99/month.
- JobLogr: AI-driven resume analyzer and job search tools for $20/month.
Quick Comparison
| App | Free Plan | ATS-Friendly | AI Tools | Monthly Cost (Premium) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VisualCV | Yes | Yes | Yes | $16 |
| Resume.io | Yes | Yes | Yes | $6.24 |
| Zety | Yes | Yes | Yes | $1.95 (14-day trial) |
| ResumeLab | Yes | Yes | Yes | $2.70 (14-day trial) |
| Resume Star | Yes | Yes | No | Free |
| CV Engineer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Free/$ |
| Canva | Yes | Limited | Yes | $10 |
| Kickresume | Yes | Yes | Yes | $7 |
| Novoresume | Yes | Yes | Yes | $19.99 |
| JobLogr | Yes | Yes | Yes | $20 |
These tools simplify resume creation while ensuring your design is both visually appealing and ATS-compatible. Ready to make your resume stand out? Dive into the full details for each app.
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1. VisualCV Resume Builder
VisualCV is a resume-building platform trusted by over 4 million professionals. It combines sleek design with applicant tracking system (ATS) compatibility - an essential feature since 98% of Fortune 500 companies rely on ATS software.
The platform offers more than 30 professional templates, all designed to balance visual appeal with ATS readability. You can easily tweak colors and layouts to align with your personal style or industry standards, all without sacrificing the clarity recruiters need.
Key Features:
- Advanced resume tracking to monitor employer views
- Tools for managing multiple CV versions
- Real-time notifications when employers view your resume
- AI-powered assistance for building resumes
- LinkedIn data import for quick setup
These tools work together to help your resume stand out visually while ensuring it passes ATS filters.
VisualCV provides two subscription options. The free plan covers basic features, but upgrading to the Pro Quarterly plan at $16 per month (billed quarterly) unlocks unlimited resume creation, PDF downloads, and more.
Users consistently praise the platform’s ease of use and effectiveness:
"I've been using VisualCV on and off since 2017, and it's become my go-to. The templates are clean, professional, and visually striking, helping my applications stand out in a crowded job market. The platform is intuitive, making it easy to customize layouts, import LinkedIn data, or tweak designs to fit a prospective company." - Nick Roady, User since 2017
To maximize your success, use industry-specific keywords and maintain clean formatting. This is crucial, as only 2% of applicants typically secure interviews.
2. Resume.io
Resume.io has carved out its space as a go-to visual resume builder, evolving over more than a decade. With over 51 million users worldwide and a solid 4.4 out of 5 rating from 53,977 Trustpilot reviews, its reliability speaks for itself. One of its standout features is the wide array of categorized templates that make crafting a resume straightforward:
| Template Category | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Simple | Minimal designs focused on readability |
| Modern | Sleek, contemporary styles with creative touches |
| Professional | Classic layouts tailored for corporate roles |
| ATS-friendly | Four templates designed to work seamlessly with applicant tracking systems |
| Creative | Unique designs for industries that value originality |
With more than 20 templates spread across these categories, you can easily tweak colors, fonts, and even add photos to match your industry. The platform also integrates AI tools to boost the aesthetic appeal while keeping things professional.
As one Resume.io representative explained:
"Resume.io stands out for two reasons. Firstly, we're a market leader. We've been refining the builder for more than 10 years; it's fast, effective, and creates strong resumes that win interviews." - Resume.io
To make the most of Resume.io's visual resume tools, consider these tips:
- Use templates that highlight your name and contact details prominently.
- Maintain a balance of white space to enhance readability.
- Tailor your resume design to fit the job you're applying for.
Pricing is flexible, catering to different needs. You can start with a 7-day trial for $2.95, or choose longer plans for better value: $7.49 per month for a 6-month subscription or $6.24 per month for an annual plan.
Resume.io also ensures your resume looks great across formats. You can export your work in PDF, DOCX, or TXT, making it versatile for both digital and printed applications. Users love how intuitive the platform is, with most managing to create polished resumes in under 30 minutes. It’s a time-saving solution for job seekers who want results.
3. Zety ATS Optimizer
Zety ATS Optimizer combines sleek design with ATS-friendly functionality. This tool uses AI to create resumes that not only look professional but also pass Applicant Tracking System (ATS) filters - a key feature since 70% of large companies use ATS to screen resumes.
The platform offers 18 templates tailored for ATS compatibility, designed by a team of HR professionals and graphic designers. Additionally, its scoring system provides real-time feedback to ensure your resume meets ATS criteria. This blend of creativity and practicality aligns with the broader trend in visual resume tools.
Here’s how Zety performs across essential categories:
| Feature Category | Rating | Notable Aspects |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface | 9/10 | Smooth and polished design |
| Template Quality | 9/10 | 18 ATS-optimized templates available |
| AI Assistance | 9/10 | Smart suggestions for content and keyword usage |
| Cover Letter Support | 9/10 | Comprehensive writing help |
| Customization | 8/10 | Flexible content and design options |
| ATS Compatibility | 8/10 | Built-in tools for ATS optimization |
Zety stands out by combining visual appeal with the technical functionality needed to navigate modern hiring processes effectively.
"The templates look great and its ATS optimization is impressive. When I used the resume builder tool, I was absolutely blown away. I've used TealHQ, a really powerful (paid) tool. But Zety goes further by suggesting not just keywords to use, but entire phrases. Truly impressive! You've really taught me something and given me an incredible way to serve my clients."
Most users complete their resumes in about 15 minutes. Christine Zapata, CEO of Human Insights Consulting, highlights the platform’s standout feature:
"What makes Zety unique? The ability to enhance your resume using pre-written content that is optimized for ATS screeners. With just a simple click, you can seamlessly incorporate these pre-written descriptions into your resume to effectively catch recruiters' attention."
Pricing starts at $1.95, with a 14-day money-back guarantee. Users can create and edit resumes for free, but downloading in PDF or Word format requires a paid plan, while .txt downloads remain free.
Zety has helped users secure roles at top companies like Amazon, Facebook, and Google. With over 5,700 positive reviews on Trustpilot, Zety has earned its reputation as a reliable tool for crafting visually appealing, ATS-friendly resumes that get noticed in today’s competitive job market.
4. ResumeLab
ResumeLab provides a streamlined tool for crafting visually appealing resumes, offering 21 ATS-friendly templates designed by career experts. On average, users complete their resumes in just 21.3 minutes, making it a convenient option for those with tight schedules.
The templates are tailored to fit various industries:
| Industry | Recommended Template | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Cascade | Clean layout, ideal for IT professionals |
| Creative | Initials | Modern design, great for office assistants |
| Management | Crisp | Professional look, suited for retail managers |
| Healthcare | Newcast | Organized structure, clinical presentation |
| Engineering | Influx | Clear hierarchy, technical focus |
ResumeLab simplifies the process with expert-written, fillable prompts for every section. A study of 500,000 resumes created between August 2023 and August 2024 reveals users typically include 4.3 past workplaces and generate 2.4 documents on average.
Customization Features
ResumeLab offers several tools to make your resume stand out:
- Adjust colors, fonts, and sections to match your style and career goals
- Upload an existing resume for quick edits
- Create matching cover letters for a unified application package
"My previous resume was really weak, and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful!" – George
For just $2.70, you can access a 14-day full trial of the platform.
"I was completely satisfied with the experience, the freedom that the site allows you to edit as the user wishes, and the various layout options." – Kerri
5. Resume Star
Resume Star shines with a stellar 4.9/5 rating on the App Store, backed by 17,100 user reviews. Its focus is simple: deliver clean, professional resumes without unnecessary distractions.
Core Features
Resume Star’s template system is designed to make creating polished resumes straightforward. Here’s what it offers:
| Feature | Benefit | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Font Optimization | Ensures consistent display | Pre-selected fonts that look great everywhere |
| Section Management | Flexible organization | Easily add, delete, or rearrange sections |
| Fine-tuning Controls | Perfect formatting | Adjust text size and margins for a polished fit |
| Cover Letter Creation | Complete your application | Create targeted, professional cover letters |
These tools work together to produce resumes that meet professional standards while remaining visually appealing.
Professional Templates
The app includes 10 expertly crafted templates suitable for a variety of career paths. These templates make it easy to create a professional resume quickly, saving time without sacrificing quality.
"This program really takes the mental strain off of making and editing a resume... Thank you for making this so much easier for me to manage with my ADHD." – TheHonestMagpie
Customization Options
Resume Star strikes the perfect balance between structure and flexibility. Users can create unlimited resumes and access built-in expert advice to refine each section. The app's efficiency is a standout feature, enabling users to draft resumes in just 25% of the time it would normally take - all while maintaining top-notch quality.
6. CV Engineer
CV Engineer has earned a stellar reputation as a standout resume creation tool, boasting an impressive 4.7-star rating on the Google Play Store from over 65,000 reviews. Created by a professional recruiter, it has already assisted more than 4 million users in crafting their resumes. This app combines sleek design with AI-powered features, reflecting the growing trend toward user-friendly, visually appealing resumes.
Professional Templates and Smart Features
CV Engineer offers a range of professional templates enhanced with intelligent tools to make resume building straightforward and effective. The app provides real-time suggestions to refine your content, ensuring your resume sounds polished and professional.
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| AI Assistant | Offers smart content suggestions | Helps craft professional descriptions |
| Multi-language Support | Supports multiple languages | Ideal for international opportunities |
| Custom Sections | Add or adjust sections freely | Tailored to specific career needs |
| Format Controls | Adjust fonts and margins | Ensures a polished visual layout |
These features make it easier than ever to create a resume that stands out.
Easy to Use, Packed with Functionality
What sets CV Engineer apart is its focus on simplicity without compromising quality. A recent review from July 2023 captures this balance perfectly:
"I'm loving using this resume builder on my Samsung phone! It's highly user-friendly and it's pretty awesome to choose from a variety of classy looking templates to compose my resume without even having to open my laptop!! Love the AI editor option, it makes everything you write sound extremely professional! You can add your own custom sections, delete uneeded sections, add your photo, and so much more! Easy to use, easy to save, easy to share. Highly recommend!" - Jessica H
The app has also garnered attention from major publications like Wired, CNET, Popular Science, and Android Authority for its innovative approach.
Simplified Formatting for Better Results
Beyond its intuitive interface, CV Engineer takes the hassle out of resume design with smart formatting tools. The app automates layout adjustments, allowing users to focus on crafting content. A review from November 2024 highlights this feature:
"Basic and simple, yet highly effective... great spacing, making the content easy to read, while still managing to pack in all the necessary text without feeling cluttered." - Nexusme007
Its step-by-step guidance ensures anyone, even those without design experience, can create a professional-looking resume that makes a lasting impression.
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7. Canva Visual Editor
With over 75 million users worldwide, Canva Visual Editor blends professional-grade design tools with an easy-to-use interface, making it a popular choice for creating eye-catching resumes.
Tools for Professional Design
Canva offers a wide range of customizable templates tailored to various industries. Its toolkit includes features that cater to both creativity and functionality:
| Tool | Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| AI-Powered Tools | Magic Write™ & Magic Design™ | Simplifies content creation and design |
| Visual Elements | Access to millions of photos, icons, and graphics | Boosts visual appeal and polish |
| Typography | Over 3,000 free and premium fonts | Helps establish a unique personal brand |
| Data Visualization | Editable charts and tables | Clearly presents key accomplishments |
Beyond Traditional Resume Formats
Canva offers more than just standard resume templates. Whether you need a classic PDF resume, a creative infographic resume, or even a video resume, Canva has you covered. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to arrange elements while maintaining a polished look. This flexibility allows users to adapt their resumes to meet specific industry expectations.
What Users Are Saying
Canva's balance of style and functionality has earned praise from users. Sara M. shares her experience:
"Canva made it possible for me to design tons of different items for clients including resumes, social media posts and eblasts to name a few. I love that it is easy to use and fun."
Similarly, Hasan H. highlights its versatility:
"Canva is a universal tool for everyone including any kind of companies and individuals. There are many creative and modern templates in Canva and I regularly update my resume in order to be up to date and meet requirements of employers."
Easy Access and Export Options
Canva ensures flexibility when it comes to accessing and sharing resumes. Users can:
- Save designs in formats like PDF, JPG, or PNG
- Access and edit projects across devices
- Update resumes anytime
- Share directly with potential employers
The platform offers a free version, while the Pro subscription - priced at $120/year - provides advanced features. With recruiters spending an average of just six seconds per resume, Canva's visually appealing tools help job seekers make a lasting impression in a competitive market.
8. Kickresume
Kickresume has been a trusted tool for over 6 million job seekers, helping more than 2 million professionals land jobs. It stands out by blending advanced AI capabilities with sleek, professional design to simplify the job application process.
Professional Templates and Design Options
Kickresume offers a collection of 40+ ATS-friendly templates crafted by HR specialists and typographers. With plenty of customization options, it ensures your resume stands out. Here's what makes it special:
| Feature | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Design Combinations | Over 1 million possibilities | Makes your resume visually unique |
| Template Library | 40+ ATS-optimized designs | Helps your resume pass applicant tracking systems |
| Sample Collection | 1,500+ job-specific examples | Provides role-specific inspiration |
| Website Conversion | One-click portfolio creation | Quickly builds an online presence |
AI-Powered Features
Kickresume takes it a step further with its GPT-4 powered AI Resume Builder, which generates professional, tailored content based on just a job title. This feature saves time while delivering polished results.
Real Success Stories
Kickresume has earned glowing reviews from users who’ve seen real results:
"Kickresume helped me land a job at Philips! Creating my CV and cover letter was very quick and easy, and the outcome very professional. It impressed every single job interviewer I had an interview with. Definitely worth the small investment as it will benefit your career substantially."
"Kickresume is by far the most powerful resume editor on the web. It helped me create my resume really fast and people are always 'Wow' when they see it. Moreover, having a portfolio website is awesome and it's easy to create. A must-have tool for anyone who changes jobs regularly."
Pricing Structure
Kickresume offers flexible pricing options to fit different needs:
- Free Plan: Includes 4 customizable templates and basic features.
- Premium Plan: Starts at $7/month (billed annually) for full access to advanced tools.
- Special Access: Free for students and teachers.
With a TrustScore of 4.5 based on 2,258 reviews, Kickresume has proven its reliability and effectiveness.
9. Novoresume
Novoresume is a resume-building platform that combines clean, modern design with extensive customization options. Praised for its sleek layouts and user-friendly tools, it has garnered a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot from 1,169 users, with 80% awarding it a perfect 5-star score.
Advanced Customization Features
With 16 professionally designed templates - 8 free and 8 premium - Novoresume offers a solid foundation for creating personalized resumes. Its standout feature is the wide range of customization tools available:
| Feature | Capabilities | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Design Elements | Color schemes, fonts, columns | Lets users craft a distinctive look |
| Layout Control | Margins, spacing, sections | Maximizes use of space effectively |
| Industry Focus | Templates for various fields | Matches industry-specific expectations |
| Content Tools | AI assistant, live analyzer | Helps refine resume content |
Smart Content Generation
Novoresume goes beyond aesthetics by offering advanced content-focused tools to make resumes both polished and professional:
- AI Content Assistant: Helps generate personalized content based on user input.
- Live Content Analyzer: Provides real-time feedback to improve content quality.
- Real-time Editor: Instantly previews changes for a seamless editing experience.
Tailored Templates for Career Paths
The platform includes templates designed for a variety of industries and career stages:
- Creative Fields: Ideal for roles in design, marketing, and media.
- Conservative Professions: Suitable for banking, law, and similar fields.
- IT Roles: Highlights technical expertise.
- Students and Graduates: Focuses on education, internships, and early career achievements.
Endorsements from Career Experts
Novoresume has earned praise from industry professionals. Biron Clark, a former executive recruiter, shares his thoughts:
"Novorésumé is one of the few resume builders that I recommend online. Their resume templates are modern and eye-catching, and will grab an employer's attention."
Pricing Options
Novoresume offers flexible pricing plans to suit various needs:
- Free Plan: Limited to a single-page resume.
- Premium Plans:
- Monthly: $19.99
- Quarterly: $39.99
- Annual: $99.99
Premium features include full access to customization tools, the ability to create multiple versions, matching cover letters, and access to Novocareer services.
Emma, a satisfied user, highlights the platform's ease of use:
"Novoresume is easy to use and makes a difficult task more manageable. They offer so many templates to choose from and then a very customizable layout. I love adjusting the colors of each resume I make to reflect the company I'm applying to. For me, the real value comes in how easy it is to duplicate a resume and adjust it. I have so many resumes stored in the UI now and it's very easy to re-find them."
10. JobLogr
JobLogr stands out for its ability to create visually compelling resumes using its AI-powered Resume Analyzer. This tool helps job seekers apply to more positions, craft personalized cover letters, and achieve higher interview rates. Combining sleek design with AI-driven insights, JobLogr ensures your resume grabs attention right away.
Smart Resume Enhancement
The Resume Analyzer provides actionable suggestions to improve both the content and structure of your resume. Here's what it offers:
| Feature | Purpose | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Content Analysis | Assesses resume effectiveness | Highlights areas for improvement |
| Keyword Optimization | Aligns with job descriptions | Boosts ATS (Applicant Tracking System) compatibility |
| Format Suggestions | Refines layout | Ensures a polished, professional look |
| LinkedIn Integration | Syncs with your profile | Keeps your professional presence consistent |
Professional Validation
Alisa Hill, Director of Business Strategy and Operations, highlights the platform's value:
"From the Resume Analyzer (that gives you tips to fine tune your resume) to the Interview IQ (which provides genuine insight into potential interview questions tailored to your resume and job description). JobLogr is truly a groundbreaking tool for job searching and career exploration."
User-Friendly Design
Mike L., a Communications Engineer, shares his experience with JobLogr:
"I love JobLogr's automated job search listings. Being able to generate tailored cover letters is priceless and saves so much time. JobLogr is an essential tool for job-seekers. It saved me hours of time searching and editing!"
Premium Features
JobLogr offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance your job search, including:
- Resume Analysis: AI-driven tips to refine your resume
- Profile Optimization: Tools to enhance your LinkedIn profile
- Cover Letter Generation: Customization for specific job applications
- Interview Preparation: Tailored question suggestions based on your resume
Pricing Structure
JobLogr provides flexible pricing options to suit different career stages:
- Free Plan: Basic job application tracking
- Premium Monthly: $20/month
- Quarterly Package: Starting at $30 for 3 months
A free trial is also available, allowing users to test the features before subscribing.
Performance Metrics
JobLogr backs its tools with measurable results:
- Users apply to 41% more jobs on average
- Personalized cover letters result in 50% more interview invitations
- Job seekers using AI tools experience significantly higher success rates
App Features at a Glance
Here’s a quick comparison of key features and pricing for some popular resume-building platforms:
Core Features Comparison
| Feature | Free Templates | ATS Compatibility | Export Options | Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VisualCV | Limited | Yes | PDF, Link sharing | $15 |
| Resume.io | Basic | Yes | PDF, Word, Merged | $19.95 |
| Zety | Yes | Advanced | PDF, Word, TXT | $23.70 |
| ResumeLab | Limited | Yes | PDF only | $24.99 |
| Kickresume | 4 templates | Limited | PDF, Word, TXT | $19 |
| Novoresume | One-page only | Yes | PDF, Word, TXT | $19.99 |
| Canva | Extensive | Limited | PDF, JPG, PNG | $10 |
| JobLogr | Yes | Advanced | $20 |
While many apps share similar core features, there are notable differences in export options, pricing, and additional tools that set them apart.
- Export Options: Most platforms support PDF exports, while some also allow Word, TXT, or image formats like JPG and PNG. A few even include options for direct sharing.
- Pricing: Subscription costs range between $10 and $25 per month, with trial periods available on several platforms.
- Templates: Each platform tailors its templates to specific professional needs. For instance:
- Kickresume offers design-heavy templates ideal for creative industries.
- Zety focuses on ATS-friendly templates for corporate roles.
- VisualCV provides data-driven insights and specialized templates for technical jobs.
Many platforms also incorporate AI-powered features to streamline the resume-building process. These tools can include content suggestions and real-time formatting feedback, with advanced capabilities typically reserved for premium plans. Whether you’re looking for basic functionality or cutting-edge tools, these platforms offer a range of options to suit different career goals.
Final Notes
Visual resume builders have revolutionized how job seekers present themselves. Studies reveal that hiring managers process visual information 60,000 times faster than plain text, and a whopping 90% of the information our brains receive is visual.
"A well-designed resume catches attention and gives recruiters an impressive impression before they even start reading it. The resume is more memorable and helps you stand out from other candidates." – Central Coast Resume
These findings highlight the importance of combining visual appeal with technical accuracy. For example, data indicates that infographic resumes are seven times more likely to grab attention. However, as mentioned earlier, it's critical to ensure your resume remains ATS-friendly while maintaining its visual charm.
This is where AI-driven tools like JobLogr come into play. JobLogr enhances your resume's formatting and keyword optimization to improve ATS compatibility - all while keeping the design visually engaging.
To make the most of these insights and tools, consider these strategies:
- Balance design and content: Use visuals to emphasize key achievements without overwhelming the layout.
- Optimize for ATS: Stick to clean, structured formatting and incorporate relevant keywords.
- Keep it clear: Use color sparingly to draw attention without sacrificing readability.
FAQs
What features should I look for in a visual resume app to ensure it works with ATS systems?
When selecting a visual resume app, it’s crucial to focus on features that ensure your resume can smoothly navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Opt for apps that emphasize clean, straightforward formatting - steering clear of intricate graphics or tables that might trip up ATS software. Stick to standard headings like Experience and Education to maintain clarity.
Another key feature to look for is keyword optimization tools. These can help you seamlessly incorporate relevant terms from job descriptions, boosting your chances of catching a recruiter’s attention. Lastly, make sure the app provides export options in ATS-friendly formats like .docx or .pdf, ensuring your design and content remain intact.
By picking an app with these capabilities, you can craft a resume that’s not only visually engaging but also ATS-ready, giving you a better shot at securing an interview.
How do I choose the best app for creating a visual resume tailored to my job or industry?
To choose the best visual resume app for your needs, think about your industry and the job you're targeting. If you're in a creative field, go for apps offering bold, eye-catching templates. On the other hand, careers in more formal industries may call for simple, polished designs. The key is finding an app with a variety of customizable templates that align with your career goals.
Also, look for apps that include features like keyword optimization to help your resume pass applicant tracking systems (ATS). Tools that make it easy to tweak your resume for different roles can also give you an edge, ensuring your application meets the expectations of recruiters in your field.
How can I balance design and content to create a visually appealing and effective resume?
When crafting a resume that grabs attention, aim for a clean and structured design to make it easy to read. Stick to professional fonts and a consistent color palette for a polished appearance. Highlight important sections like your skills and accomplishments, and use white space strategically to prevent the layout from feeling overcrowded.
As for the content, customize your resume to match the job description by focusing on relevant skills and measurable achievements. Use strong action verbs to clearly show your contributions and keep the text concise and easy to scan. A well-organized resume not only showcases your qualifications but also reflects your ability to present information effectively - something hiring managers will definitely notice.