Resume Guide

Build a resume that passes ATS and impresses humans

Your resume — quick wins

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Your primary version is "Frontend Generalist". Below are edits ranked by impact. Apply them top to bottom.

  • Start with a quantified headline matching target job titles.
  • Add the bundle-size win (38%) to the Pulse Analytics bullet — numbers convert.
  • Mirror "product engineer" phrasing for Stripe-style roles to lift ATS score.
  • Replace "Helped build" with "Architected" or "Led" — stronger verbs.
  • Add OpenDeck project stats (2.1k stars) — social proof differentiates.

Resume structure masterclass

Tap each section for guidance, good/bad examples, and what recruiters look for.

Lead with a one-line headline that mirrors the exact job title phrasing. Follow with 2–3 sentences: years of experience, core domain, and what makes you unique. Always quantify.

Good example

"Senior Frontend Engineer | 6 years building design systems & high-performance UIs | Reduced bundle size 38% at Pulse Analytics"

Avoid

"Passionate developer who loves coding and teamwork"

ATS optimization checklist

Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems that auto-reject 75% of resumes. Pass the bot first.

  • Use standard section headings (Experience, Education, Skills)
  • No tables, columns, or graphics — ATS can't parse them
  • Include the exact job title somewhere in the first 3 lines
  • Match 60%+ of the listed tech stack keywords verbatim
  • Save as PDF (not DOCX) unless explicitly requested otherwise
  • File name: FirstName_LastName_Role.pdf
  • Keep to 1 page if <7 years experience, 2 pages max

Multi-version strategy

One resume doesn't fit all. Create 2–3 versions targeting different job families.

Frontend Generalist

Best for: Product Engineer, Frontend Engineer, UI Engineer

Emphasize: React, TypeScript, performance, accessibility, shipping speed

Design Systems Specialist

Best for: Design Systems, Platform UI, Staff Frontend

Emphasize: Component APIs, tokens, governance, adoption metrics, cross-team impact

Full-Stack Hybrid

Best for: Full-Stack Engineer, Founding Engineer, Startup roles

Emphasize: End-to-end delivery, backend exposure, database, infra, wearing many hats

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The SwipeHire agent automatically picks the best version when you apply. Set your primary as a fallback.

Power verbs cheat sheet

ArchitectedReducedLaunchedMigratedMentoredAutomatedScaledOptimizedDeliveredDesignedPioneeredEliminated

Start every experience bullet with one of these. Never use "Responsible for" or "Helped with".