Resume Renovations Barbara Safani

While many resumes adequately explain a candidate’s job responsibilities, few elaborate on their accomplishments. And let’s face it – many people perform jobs with similar competencies. And with hundreds of others trained to do the same thing, what makes each person unique are the successes they have in their position. Consider these typical resume statements from job seekers. Though they probably have a great deal to offer employers, that message gets lost in their documents.

“Answered questions that pertained to each customer’s need.”

Undoubtedly, customer service is critical for many positions. Yet this statement falls short by telling the reader little other than that answering questions was a function of their job. Hiring managers want to know the volume of inquiries and the time it took to resolve customer issues in comparison to company standards. Enhance these figures with powerful examples of how irate clients were satisfied or how processes were put in place to increase efficiency.

“Developed and executed promotional opportunities.”

Great! Tell me more! Outline the types of campaigns and corresponding results. Make certain to illustrate not only revenue results but strategic earnings as well. Did the promotions drive revenues, capture a new niche, or take market share away from a competitor? Provide a snapshot of what was going on in the company before these promotions were developed and what is happening now as a result of them.

“Prepared weekly reporting on equipment performance.”

While recurring tasks can indicate proficiency, always remember to provide context. Build on weekly assignments by noting why they were performed and the impact they had on the company. Was the report used by senior management for forecasting the budget or deciding on vendor contracts? Did these reports save money or time? If so, how much?

“Developed business plans and strategies to build rapport and solicit new business accounts.”

Sounds important. New business gains can make or break a business. Be sure to outline what new business was secured and the year–to–date percent increase in accounts and revenues. Call out creative strategies or guerrilla marketing techniques leveraged to highlight inventive thinking.

Break away from the day to day of your work experience and strive to showcase the unique, memorable, creative, and “above and beyond” moments. You will quickly rise to the top of the resume pile and secure more interviews faster.