Firms and hiring managers are often swamped with resumes that look exactly the same. Only a few resumes appear to have that unique touch that distinguishes a job seeker from the mass. If your resume feels like something is lacking, it’s possible that you’re not utilizing your professional resume summary to its full potential.
Creating a solid and interesting summary can significantly enhance your chances of being called in for an interview. Therefore, knowing how to make your resume stand out is critical. Read on to learn how to write a resume summary.
What is a Resume Summary?
A resume summary sums up your entire resume. It also serves as a professional profile, describing how your previous work experience can benefit you in future roles. Keep in mind that the resume summary statement differs from the resume objective statement in that the objective is centered on you, while the summary is focused on the employer. The summary should be placed just below your contact information on your resume’s first page.
How to Write a Resume Summary
Here’s how to write a resume summary that will turn any dry and uninteresting resume into the ideal introduction that gets the attention of hiring managers.
Step 1 – Start with Your Credential
Emphasize your most relevant qualifications for the job you’re applying for. Examine the job description and make any necessary changes to your existing summary to make yourself appear as qualified as feasible.
Step 2 – Mention Your Strong Points
Your summary should demonstrate to the employer what you can provide. Write your summary in a style that explains who you are and what the employers can expect from you. Instead of telling the employer what your resume goal is, tell them how you can help them achieve their goals.
Step 3 – Quantify Your Accomplishments
Provide quantifiable results and accomplishments. It has been proved that numbers are better at grabbing attention than plain words. See for yourself: “Decreased overhead expenses by 40%,” for example, sounds a lot better than “decreased expenses.”
Step 4 – Keep It Short
Your resume summary should be no more than four to six sentences long. Many job applicants merely write a sentence or two, or they ramble on and on. Maintain a healthy balance and emphasize the most critical points. Refrain from adding fluff!
Step 5 – Use Active Voice
Many job applicants utilize overused phrases like “responsible for” or “in charge of.” Wherever feasible, use active voice in your summary. This demonstrates that you are a self-starter who can connect the “why” with the “what” in previous jobs.
Step 6 – Proofread
This is perhaps one of the most critical points. While there is no room for error in a resume, you certainly can’t make a blunder in the resume summary section. Proofread the summary to make sure it is flawless.
If you are struggling to write a unique and winning resume summary, opt for The Resume Factory resume writing services. We can help you tweak your resume or create a new one for you from scratch. Contact us to get started today!