Six-Step Resume Writing
Brought to you by
ResumeEdge—the
premier resume writing and editing service on the Web.
Step Four: Resume Accomplishments and Special Skills
There is no data on your resume more important than your accomplishments.
Why?
Think of it this way: you're a hiring manager with one position
to fill and 10 qualified candidates clamoring for the position.
Each candidate has the same basic educational and professional
background. So, who gets the job?
The candidate who contributed the most at past positions. Accomplishments
are all that separate you from other equally qualified candidates,
with one caveat. Your accomplishments must be quantified.
What is an Accomplishment?
- Increasing the company's bottom line (e.g., facilitating its
growth)
- Streamlining procedures
- Promotions
- Special projects successfully completed
- Decreasing costs
- Company- or industry-sponsored awards
- Certifications and licensure
What is not an Accomplishment?
- Daily responsibilities that are included in your job description
- Regular attendance at work
- Getting along with co-workers
- Working full-time while going to college at night
- Volunteer or community service unless it has a direct
bearing on your job search
In other words, an accomplishment is service that goes beyond
your usual job description. But for an accomplishment to have the
most effect, it must be quantified.
What is a Quantified Accomplishment?
One that includes dollar figures, percentages, and time periods.
For example: Our accountant has streamlined procedures, realizing
a $2500 monthly savings for his company. The dollar figure quantifies the
accomplishment, while the "streamlined procedures" explains how
he did it. Now, if he achieved those savings within three months
of hire, that would further strengthen his accomplishments, and
it might be written thusly:
- Achieved a $2500 monthly savings for XYZ Company within three
months of hire by streamlining procedures.
Imagine the hiring manager's reaction to the above as opposed
to this entry:
- Streamlined procedures for XYZ Company.
Doesn't say much, does it?
Special Skills
Special Skills should always be presented up-front so that
a hiring manager knows what you can do. In some instances, a special
section (e.g., Computer Skills, Languages, Office Procedures) should
be created to showcase these special skills.
Special skills will include:
- Computer proficiencies
- Office procedures (e.g., answering multi-lined phone systems,
taking dictation including speed, transcription, typing speed,
10-key)
- Linguistic capabilities (e.g., fluency in a foreign language,
ability to translate)
- Any skill that's industry-specific for the job you're seeking
Linked below are three examples of resumes with outstanding accomplishments
and special skills showcased effectively for hiring managers.
Example Resume Accomplishments and Special
Skills 1
Example Resume Accomplishments
and Special Skills 2
Example Resume Accomplishments
and Special Skills 3
Let
ResumeEdge give
your resume and cover letter an edge!
|
About
