What is a Resumé Summary?
A Resumé summary is the written version of an elevator pitch.
Think of your Resumé summary as a strategic tool. It aims to quickly communicate to the recruiter why you're a valuable prospect for the job. This summary can be a short paragraph or a series of brief statements and keyword phrases, as shown in the example towards the end of this article.
How do you write a Resumé summary statement?
Remember, the power is in your hands. Customizing your Resumé summary for each job, tailoring it to the specific requirements and preferences of the employer, is a strategic move that can significantly affect how your application is perceived. This personal touch gives you control over presenting yourself to potential employers.
A good Resumé summary is crafted to include important information relevant to the job ad and targeted to the specific employer.
Not only will customizing a Resumé summary statement—and your Resumé in general—help impress a recruiter, but it'll also help get your Resumé into a recruiter's hands in the first place. With applicant tracking systems (ATS) gaining popularity in major companies, including keywords throughout your Resumé is becoming vital.
So, how do you customize your summary? Scanning the job ad, highlight the main keywords, and include similar words and phrases in your statement. As you write your summary, remember that a hiring manager is looking for fit, experience, and relevance.
Ensure that it stands out by noting quantifiable accomplishments
In line with the above point, your Resumé must help you to grab the reader's attention and set yourself apart from the crowd. Including keywords is a good start, but you want to draw the recruiter in with original quantified information.
Keep it short
Remember, the Resumé summary is just that- a summary. It's not about cramming in every detail of your career but highlighting the key points that make you a strong candidate. Keep it concise and to the point, and you'll be on the right track.
Here's an example:
Dynamic Sales Leader
Results-oriented sales executive with over 15 years of experience in individual sales execution, team leadership, and general management. Areas of expertise include Out of Home advertising with programmatic (geolocation targeting. Solution Selling & Challenger Methodology, P & L Management, RFP Process, and Talent Recruitment, Training, & Management.
Article by Eric Palmer
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