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Guide5 min read18 February 2026

What actually gets technology candidates shortlisted

Practical, specific resume guidance for engineers, data professionals and architects based on what hiring managers actually screen for.

Hiring managers spend seconds, not minutes, on a first resume pass. Lead with outcomes and scale — systems supported, data volumes handled, team size — not just a list of technologies.

List technologies you've used in production, not everything you've ever touched in a tutorial. Recruiters and hiring managers can tell the difference in the interview within minutes.

For contract roles, lead with the specific engagements and outcomes from your last two to three contracts. For permanent roles, show progression and depth within fewer, more detailed roles.

If you're applying for a visa-sponsored role, be upfront about your visa status and timeline early in the process — it saves everyone time and doesn't count against you with employers who sponsor.

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