Crafting a resume that stands out can be a daunting task, but one of the most important aspects is how you word your experience. It’s not just about what you’ve done, but how you present it. In just a few sentences, you need to convey your skills, achievements, and the value you can bring to a potential employer. Let’s explore how to do just that.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Word Experience on a Resume
Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand that the way you describe your experience on your resume can make or break your chances of landing an interview. The following steps will guide you through the process of wording your experience effectively.
Step 1: Start with action verbs
Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb.
Using dynamic action verbs at the beginning of your bullet points helps to grab the attention of the hiring manager. It sets a confident tone and makes your responsibilities and achievements more impactful. For example, instead of saying "Was responsible for managing a team," you could say "Managed a team."
Step 2: Quantify your achievements
Include numbers to demonstrate the impact of your work.
When you can, use numbers to quantify your achievements. This provides concrete evidence of your capabilities. For example, "Increased sales by 20%" is more compelling than "Increased sales significantly."
Step 3: Focus on relevant experience
Tailor your experience to the job you’re applying for.
Highlight the experience that’s most relevant to the job you want. If you’re applying for a marketing position, emphasize any marketing campaigns you’ve worked on or the social media strategies you’ve developed, rather than unrelated tasks.
Step 4: Use industry keywords
Incorporate keywords from the job description into your resume.
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes before they ever reach a human. By using keywords from the job description, you increase the chances of your resume passing through these systems. Plus, it shows the employer that you’re familiar with the industry terminology.
Step 5: Keep it concise
Be brief and to the point.
Your resume should be easy to skim, so avoid long paragraphs. Use bullet points to list your experience, and keep each point short and sweet. This makes it easier for hiring managers to find the information they’re looking for.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a resume that clearly and effectively communicates your experience. It will be tailored to the position you’re applying for, with a focus on your achievements and the value you offer.
Tips: How to Word Experience on a Resume
- Avoid using passive language or "responsible for." Instead, show what you’ve accomplished.
- Use the present tense for current positions and past tense for previous roles.
- Don’t include every job you’ve ever had; only the ones that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
- Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
- Have someone else review your resume to ensure it’s clear and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should my resume be?
Your resume should ideally be one page, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience.
Most hiring managers prefer a concise resume, as they often have many to review. If you have more than a decade of experience or the position calls for an extensive background, a two-page resume is acceptable.
Should I include a summary or objective?
Including a resume summary or objective can be beneficial, especially if it’s well-crafted.
A summary or objective gives you an opportunity to summarize your experience and goals. It should be brief and tailored to the job you’re applying for.
Can I use a functional resume instead of a chronological one?
A functional resume can be useful if you have gaps in your employment or are changing industries.
Functional resumes focus on skills and experience, rather than the chronological order of your employment. However, many employers prefer the chronological format, so consider your industry and experience before choosing.
How often should I update my resume?
You should update your resume regularly, even when you’re not actively job searching.
Keeping your resume updated makes it easier to apply for opportunities as they arise. You won’t have to scramble to add your latest experience or achievements.
Should I include references on my resume?
It’s no longer necessary to include references on your resume, unless specifically asked to do so.
Employers expect you to have references available upon request. Including them on your resume can take up valuable space that could be used to showcase your experience and skills.
Summary
- Use action verbs to start bullet points.
- Quantify achievements with numbers.
- Tailor experience to the job.
- Include industry keywords.
- Keep bullet points concise.
Conclusion
In today’s competitive job market, having a well-worded resume is crucial. It’s often the first impression you make on a potential employer, and it can be the difference between landing an interview or getting passed over. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can create a resume that highlights your experience in a way that’s both compelling and relevant to the job you’re seeking. Remember, your resume is a reflection of your professional story – make sure it’s one worth reading. Whether you’re just entering the workforce or you’re a seasoned professional, it’s never too late to refine how you present your experience on your resume.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.