resume summary writing tips

77+ Resume Summary Examples [& How-to Guide for 2024]

Most companies get hundreds or even thousands of applications monthly.

Hiring managers don’t have the time to read each resume in detail, so they usually end up scanning it for five to six seconds.

So, unless your resume manages to grab the hiring manager’s attention in those few seconds, they’ll just toss your application aside and move on to the next one.

That’s why, you want to make sure that the hiring manager can instantly tell that you’re the right candidate for the job before they even read your resume in depth. 

This is where writing an attention-grabbing resume summary comes in!

In this guide, we’re going to cover: 

• What Is a Resume Summary?
• Tips for Writing an Effective Resume Summary 
• 77+ Convincing Resume Summary Examples

Let’s dive in.

This guide is part of our larger resume series. If you want to start from the basics, take a look at our comprehensive guide on how to make a resume .

What Is a Resume Summary? 

A resume summary is a section that summarizes your resume’s contents. It’s placed in your resume’s header, close to your 

contact information , and it’s the first thing hiring managers see when they look at your resume.

When done right, your resume summary serves as a snapshot of your entire career. It shows that you’re a qualified candidate in less than five seconds, and it gets the hiring manager interested in reading the rest of your resume.

So, what makes a resume summary effective?

A good resume summary is two to four sentences long and includes:

• Your years of experience and job title
• Some of your biggest achievements to date
• A couple of your most essential skills that are relevant for the role

Let’s look at an example:

• Detail-oriented Technical Writer with 7+ years of experience in writing end-user documentation, specializing in user help guides. Excellent writing, analytical thinking, research, and time management skills. Rewrote over 80% of user help guides for 30+ products at Company X, resulting in a 42% decrease in product-related customer support calls.

New to resume-making? Give our resume summary video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Use a Resume Summary?

Hiring managers skim through resumes before deciding to read them, so candidates who grab their attention from the start stand a better chance of grabbing their attention. This is why you should always include a brief paragraph in your resume header that summarizes your strengths as a candidate.

Depending on your experience level, you can choose between a resume summary or a resume objective .

Resume objectives focus on professional goals, skills, and motivation for applying for the job, so they’re perfect for students, recent graduates , and other entry-level workers.

A resume summary, on the other hand, is perfect for seasoned professionals, as it focuses more on your past work experience and how it relates to the job you’re applying for. So, if you already have some work experience, we recommend sticking to a resume summary.

If you’re embarking on a career change , on the other hand, you can choose between a resume summary or a resume objective, depending on how your previous skills and work experience relate to the job.

When you’re making your resume, write your resume summary last. Creating a resume summary is much easier once you’ve already finished up your work experience section! 

5 General Resume Summary Examples

There are different aspects of your professional background that you can focus on when writing your resume summary.

Let’s look at some examples and what they do right:

• A hard-working bartender with over five years of experience providing professional service at various bars across Brooklyn. I have received the Hospitality Skill Certification for Bartenders and I know how to make over 200 alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. Seeking the Head Bartender position at Bar X, where my skills and beverage knowledge can be leveraged to offer customers the highest quality of service.

Above all, this resume summary shows how experienced the candidate is. Their main selling point is their vast bartending knowledge, followed by an impressive bartending qualification and customer service skills .

• Communicative financial analyst, specializing in informative and persuasive financial presentations, cost accounting, and team management. Master’s Degree in Finance and two related certifications from the Corporate Finance Institute. Extensive experience with a variety of software programs, including SQL, Equitrak, and Lawson.

What sticks out the most in this resume summary is the candidate’s educational background and certifications. It matches the field they’re applying for, and their knowledge also extends to the most important professional software.

• Human Resources Manager with 7+ years of experience seeks to improve overall efficiency at XYZ Office. Career highlights include handling all employee relations in a 75-employee finance firm, reducing recruitment lead time by 35%, and increasing employee retention by 17%.

In addition to the candidate’s long professional experience, the most impressive part of this resume summary is their achievements . The candidate also made sure to quantify their professional accomplishments, which gives you credibility and shows you know what you're talking about.

• Detail-oriented receptionist with 4+ years of experience in customer service. Efficient in performing the administrative and front-desk tasks of large-scale offices. Fluent in Norwegian, English, Spanish, and Swedish. Proficient in MS Office Suite and ZenDesk.

This resume summary shows off the candidate’s key skills, including language proficiency , extensive customer service experience, and computer skills .

• Hard-working and passionate Secondary Social Studies teacher with 10+ years of experience in creating positive environments in which teenagers can learn and grow. Incorporates interdisciplinary knowledge into the classroom to engage students of all learning orientations. 

This candidate mentions they have more than a decade of work experience , but the main takeaway is what they can do on the job. The hiring manager who reads this resume summary can immediately see what this applicant can bring to the team.

How to Write a Resume Summary

Now, let’s get down to business – how can you write a resume summary that’s guaranteed to catch the hiring manager’s attention?

Let’s start with the basics. Here’s what your resume summary should include:

• Experience. If you have a lot of relevant professional experience, you should summarize it. This may include your job titles and years of experience in the field. (e.g., “Facebook marketer with 5+ years of experience..." )
• Skills. Mention your areas of expertise, specializations, certifications , and/or skills. (e.g., “Experienced in managing Facebook ad accounts and SEO copywriting..." )
• Achievements. Add one or two impressive achievements to show what you can do. (e.g., “Managed over $100,000 in marketing budget over several accounts and reduced annual company costs by 16%.” )

The next step is to take your resume summary from good to great by following these expert tips:

#1. Tailor Your Resume Summary

You could be an excellent candidate with tons of work experience, but if your resume summary isn’t tailored to the job ad, the hiring manager probably won’t be impressed.

If the hiring manager doesn’t see your value in the first seven seconds of reading your resume , you probably won’t get them to give it a second glance.

This is where tailoring your resume summary comes in. Just reference the job description to make sure your work experience, skills, and achievements all match what the employer is looking for in a candidate.

Let’s go over it in detail.

Imagine you’re applying for this specific job:

The ad tells you exactly what the company is looking for in a candidate.

So here’s what a resume summary tailored to this ad might look like:

• Professional marketer manager with 5+ years of experience in digital marketing. Social media marketing experience, including Facebook, Google, and LinkedIn advertising. Experience in managing an account with a monthly budget of $30,000. B.A. in marketing management. Fluent in German. 

By carefully tailoring your resume summary to the ad and mentioning what the company is looking for, the hiring manager will be hooked! They’ll immediately think, “This is the right person for the job!” and read the rest of your resume in detail.

Tailoring your resume summary to the job description can also help you get past Applicant Tracking Systems that companies use to filter through resumes. This is software that scans applications and disqualifies candidates who don’t mention specific skills or add enough keywords from the job description throughout their resume, so the more you tailor your resume to the job, the better your chances!

#2. Quantify Your Achievements

Your resume summary is supposed to be brief, which means you’re not supposed to list all your achievements. So, make sure to mention the ones that are most relevant and impactful for the role you’re applying for to pique the hiring manager’s attention.

The best way to back up your accomplishments is by providing concrete data.

Quantifiable achievements are instantly more credible and more likely to leave a good impression than vague statements. 

Let’s compare:

• Helped customers sign up on our platform.
• Onboarded 100+ customers to our SaaS platform with a retention rate of over 75%.

See the difference? In fact, the first example sounds more like a responsibility than an achievement.

Here’s what this applicant's entire resume summary would look like:

• Customer service representative with 5+ years of experience in telephone customer service, tech support, and customer care. Familiar with Intercom, Drift, and several other customer service software solutions. Handled up to 100 calls daily with a retention rate of over 75%. 

In some fields, there aren’t many achievements that you can mention. For example, saying that you served 50 people a day isn’t an achievement if you're a server. Don’t fret! In such cases, it’s OK to stick with your key responsibilities simply.

#3. Use Power Words and Action Verbs

Saying you’re a “team player” who was “responsible for” this or “managed” that is boring.

To stand out from every other applicant using the same words, you need to use the right action verbs and power words .

These words can make your skills and achievements pop, and the hiring manager will appreciate that you’re going the extra mile to describe your experience.

Let’s compare how the same sentence with and without power words plays out:

• Spearheaded Company X’s content marketing operations.
• Responsible for content marketing at Company X.

While both of these sentences say the same thing, the first one makes you seem more competent and implies initiative and leadership skills. The second just comes off as passive.

To drive the point home, here’s what a resume summary looks like packed with action words:

#4. Follow Our Formula

When you get down to writing your resume summary, you might still not be sure where to start or what to add.

Don’t worry!

We have a tried and tested formula that you can follow to write the perfect resume summary.

77+ Convincing Resume Summary Examples (For Different Fields)

Need inspiration to write your resume summary? No sweat!

We’ve curated a list of 77+ resume summary examples for different professions to help inspire you.

Sales and Customer Service Resume Summary Examples

#1. sales associate resume summary.

“Enthusiastic and knowledgeable sales associate specialized in upselling furniture and dealing with customer objections. Proven 2-year track record of success at Company X, having exceeded department KPIs by 40-50% for 6 months in a row.”

Read the full sales associate resume example here.

#2. Account Manager Resume Summary

“Client-oriented account manager with a successful track record in the oil industry. Managed accounts worth over $500K while working with clients such as BP and Lukoil.”

#3. Software Support Specialist Resume Summary

“Software support specialist with 5+ years of experience in providing support and assistance to clients, managing user accounts, and recruiting and hiring new IT support interns. Built customer relationships and trust with 20+ B2B clients. Skilled at simplifying complex problems, making it easy for non-technical specialists to solve IT issues.”

#4. Customer Service Representative Resume Summary

“Dedicated and trustworthy customer service specialist with four years of experience in online software troubleshooting, tech support, and customer care. Experienced in using Intercom and Drift. Received an average 87% customer satisfaction rating to date, 15% higher than the company average.”

Read the full customer service resume example here.

#5. Cashier Resume Summary

“Reliable and detail-oriented cashier. Skilled at mathematics, thinking on my feet, and solving any potential customer issues that arise without help from management. Experience in training and onboarding 3+ new cashiers at Company X.”

Read the full cashier resume example here.

#6. Retail Manager Resume Summary

“Retail Manager with 5 years of experience managing mid-sized retail stores. Increased store revenue by 15% through effective team management and customer engagement strategies. Proficient in inventory control, merchandising, and staff training. Looking to leverage retail management expertise in a larger, high-volume store setting.”

Read the full retail manager resume example here.

#7. Barista Resume Summary

“Passionate Barista with 2 years of experience in specialty coffee shops. Known for crafting signature beverages and maintaining high standards of customer service. Consistently received positive feedback for friendly demeanor and quick, accurate order fulfillment.”

Read the full barista resume example here.

#8. Server Resume Summary

"Dedicated Server with 3 years of experience in fast-paced dining environments. Skilled in order accuracy, multitasking, and providing exceptional customer service. Recognized for ability to maintain composure and efficiency during peak hours."

Read the full server resume example here.

#9. Waiter Resume Summary

“Positive and friendly waiter with 3 years of experience working at a fast-paced Italian restaurant. People skills with a proven ability to upsell alcohol, desserts, and appetizers to customers. Memorized restaurant’s wine stock and accompanying meals to the T.”

Read the full waiter resume example here.

#10. Front Desk Agent Resume Summary

“Front Desk Agent with 4 years of experience in the hospitality industry, excelling in customer service at busy city-center hotels. Skilled in handling reservations, guest inquiries, and providing travel recommendations. Committed to enhancing guest experiences and maintaining a high standard of service.”

#11. Housekeeper Resume Summary

“Hard-working house-keeper with 5+ years of experience. Past experiences include working as a housekeeper in hotels as well as private residences. Proven time-management skills and deep familiarity with all cleaning materials and tools.”

#12. Line Cook Resume Summary

“Line Cook with 3 years of experience in high-volume kitchens. Efficient in meal preparation and plating, with a focus on maintaining quality and speed. Trained in various cuisines and knowledgeable about food safety standards.”

#13. Restaurant Manager Resume Summary

“Professional restaurant manager with a strong interest in providing the highest standards of customer service and ensuring customer satisfaction. Skilled at reducing staff turnover, conflict resolution, marketing, and upselling techniques. Increased restaurant revenue by 20% through advertising lunch menu and word-of-mouth strategies.”

#14. Bar Manager Resume Summary

“Experienced Bar Manager with 7 years overseeing busy urban bars. Successfully increased annual sales by 20% through innovative marketing and menu redesign. Expert in inventory management, staff training, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. Seeking to bring leadership and efficient operational skills to a high-end establishment.”

Read the full bar manager resume example here.

Administrative and HR Resume Summary Examples

#15. receptionist resume summary.

"Organized Receptionist with 3 years of experience in corporate and medical office settings. Efficient in managing multiple phone lines, scheduling appointments, and providing administrative support. Known for a welcoming demeanor and effectively handling client inquiries."

Read the full receptionist resume example here.

#16. Recruiter Resume Summary

"Communicative professional with 5+ years of experience in recruitment. Worked with every part of the recruitment process, including sourcing, vetting, and onboarding of candidates. Passionate about IT recruitment, having worked as a tech recruiter at Company X. MBA from University X."

Read the full recruiter resume example here.

#17. Human Resources Specialist Resume Summary

“Human Resources Specialist with 6 years of experience focusing on employee retention and satisfaction. Implemented employee engagement programs that increased retention rates by 25%. Skilled in conflict resolution, performance management, and creating positive work environments. Dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and employee development.”

Read the full human resources resume example here.

#18. Office Manager Resume Summary

“Office manager with 5+ years of experience in controlling inventory, ordering and tracking new supplies, developing procedures and training material for staff. Strong communication skills, organized, with a track record of success.”

Read the full office manager resume example here.

#19. Secretary Resume Summary

“Professional Secretary with 4 years of experience in fast-paced legal and corporate environments. Proficient in document preparation, managing executive schedules, and coordinating meetings. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring efficient office operations.”

#20. Executive Assistant Resume Summary

“Accomplished executive assistant with experience in providing support to a high-level CEO and other executives for 4 years. Helped with everything from customer support to data entry and preparing well-researched documents. Skilled at time management, proficient in MS Office and Adobe Photoshop.”

Read the full executive assistant resume example here.

#21. Administrative Assistant Resume Summary

“Experienced administrative assistant seeking to leverage advanced administrative skills for improved efficiency at Media XYZ. 5+ years of industry experience includes decreasing data entry mistakes by 23%, decreasing negative feedback by 11%, and giving insights into creating paperless office environments.”

Read the full administrative assistant resume example here.

#22. Data Entry Resume Summary

“Data entry clerk with 3+ years of experience in verifying complex data, maintaining databases, and producing monthly reports using advanced Excel functions. Known for quick typing skills, eye for detail, and the ability to keep clients and employers happy.”

Read the full data entry resume example here.

Finance Resume Summary Examples

#23. accountant resume summary.

“Licensed Certified Public Accountant with 10+ years of experience in budget analysis, financial audits, and forensic accounting. Created financial reports within a five-person finance team and managed a $500,000 budget. Over the two years working there, helped cut annual company expenses by 15%.”

Read the full accountant resume example here.

#24. Financial Analyst Resume Summary

“Dedicated financial analyst with a track record of successful investments. 5+ years of experience in investment banking, with a focus on the oil industry. Responsible for analyzing potential investments, as well as conducting industry, market, and company-specific research. MBA in Finance.”

Read the full financial analyst resume example here.

#25. Bank Teller Resume Summary

“Bank teller with 2+ years of experience in client-facing roles at Bank X, where I handled customer transactions, cross-selling bank products, and keeping customers happy by providing a professional and efficient service. Followed strict and safe deposit box operations guidelines and processed 100+ customer transactions daily.”

Read the full bank teller resume example here.

#26. Banker Resume Summary

"Experienced Banker with 5 years of expertise in personal and small business banking. Managed a portfolio of high-value accounts, increasing client satisfaction and financial performance. Skilled in financial advising, loan processing, and risk management. Committed to helping clients achieve their financial goals with tailored solutions."

Read the full banker resume example here.

Business Resume Summary Examples

#27. business analyst resume summary.

“Solutions-driven business analyst with over 5 years of experience in consulting businesses and analyzing their operations. Previous experience in working with Consulting Company X and Consulting Company Y. Strong understanding of digital transformation. Improved a client company’s processes by taking them online, which improved manufacturing output by 3%.”

Read the full business analyst resume example here.

#28. Business Development Manager Resume Summary

"Dynamic Business Development Manager with 7 years of experience in identifying and pursuing new market opportunities. Led initiatives that resulted in a 30% increase in annual revenue. Strong background in strategic planning, client relations, and market analysis. Proven ability to drive business growth and forge strong partnerships.”

Read the full business development manager resume example here.

#29. Project Manager Resume Summary

“Project manager with a proven track record of working with agile and waterfall project management methodologies. Managed 5+ teams of software projects over the past 3 years. Basic understanding of several programming languages, including Java, React, and NodeJS.”

Read the full project manager resume example here.

Marketing and Advertising Resume Summary Examples

#30. marketing executive resume summary.

"Accomplished Marketing Executive with 10 years of experience in developing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies in the technology sector. Led campaigns that increased brand awareness by 40% and consistently exceeded sales targets by 15-20%. Expertise in digital marketing, market research, and team leadership. Committed to driving market growth and enhancing brand positioning for leading tech companies."

Read the full marketing executive resume example here.

#31. Marketing Manager Resume Summary

“Marketing manager with 4+ years of experience in a corporate environment. Good eye for design, with experience in creating marketing materials with Canva. Intermediate copywriting skills, having worked on the company website, flyers, and several other content pieces.”

Read the full marketing manager resume example here.

#32. Social Media Marketing Manager Resume Summary

“Creative social media manager with 2+ years of experience and a passion for boosting brand awareness and customer engagement. Skilled in copywriting and basic graphic design tools. Personally started and grew a Facebook page for my consultancy brand from 0-1,000+ in just a month. Looking to help Company X establish an online presence and increase their social presence.”

#33. Content Marketer Resume Summary

“Accomplished professional with 3+ years of experience in marketing, content writing, and outreach. Experience in writing for high-authority publications like Forbes, Business Insider, and more. Looking to help Company X increase their online presence and generate more leads through content.”

#34. SEO Specialist Resume Summary

“Results and data-driven SEO specialist with experience in keyword research, developing and marketing evergreen content, and increasing overall website rankings. Freelancing for over 2 years. Grew Company X from 50,000 daily visits to 100,000 within a year by creating long-form content and conducting backlink outreach.”

Read the full digital marketing resume here.

#35. PPC Specialist Resume Summary

“Data-driven SEM professional with 5+ years of experience with Google Analytics, AdWords, Google Display Ads, and Facebook/LinkedIn Ads. Managed a monthly advertising budget of $50,000 over 4 clients.”

IT and Software Development Resume Summary Examples

#36. it specialist resume summary.

“Competent IT specialist with 5+ years of experience working with Windows Server 2016. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert. Advanced knowledge in SQL, C++, Bash, and Linux.”

Read the full IT resume example here.

#37. Software Engineer Resume Summary

“Results-oriented software engineer with a focus on the design and implementation of relational database systems. 8+ years of experience in developing cutting-edge engineering solutions with a wide range of eCommerce and technology features. Skilled in agile processes, backend and frontend development, and creating eCommerce websites that integrate with Paypal, Stripe, and other payment APIs.”

Read the full software engineer resume example here.

#38. Cyber Security Resume Summary

"Cyber Security Specialist with 6 years of experience in threat analysis and network defense. Implemented security protocols reducing data breaches by 40% at TechSecure Inc. Certified in CISSP and experienced in cybersecurity technologies including firewalls and endpoint security. Eager to bring advanced threat detection and mitigation strategies to XYZ Cyber Solutions."

#39. Web Developer Resume Summary

"Dynamic Web Developer with 3 years of experience in designing and developing user-friendly websites. Proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React. Developed an e-commerce site that increased client sales by 30%. Looking to contribute innovative and efficient web solutions at CreativeWeb Studios."

Read the full web developer resume example here.

#40. Computer Scientist Resume Summary

“Creative and people-oriented computer scientist with up to 2 years of working with tech startups. Advanced knowledge of software design principles and agile development principles. Led and managed a team of five in developing new software from concept to delivery.”

Read the full computer scientist resume example here.

#41. Data Scientist Resume Summary

“Business-minded data scientist with a demonstrated ability to deliver valuable insights via data analytics. 10+ years of professional experience in working with CEOs and VPs of Fortune 500 companies. Deep understanding of statistical models, algorithms, and multivariate analysis.”

Read the full data scientist resume example here.

#42. Data Analyst Resume Summary

“Detail-oriented data analyst passionate about helping businesses grow. Former small business owner. Conducted research using three different focus groups and increased sales by 10% over 4 months. MBA recipient with strong technical skills in data mining and data, survey creation, and quantitative methods.”

Read the full data analyst resume example here.

#43. DevOps Engineer Resume Summary

"DevOps Engineer with 8 years of experience in automating and optimizing mission-critical deployments. Led a team that reduced deployment times by 50% through CI/CD pipeline enhancements. Skilled in cloud technologies and infrastructure as code with certifications in AWS and Terraform. Committed to improving operational efficiency at XYZ Tech."

Read the full DevOps engineer resume example here.

#44. AI Engineer Resume Summary

"AI Engineer with 4 years of experience specializing in machine learning and natural language processing. Developed AI models that improved customer interaction accuracy by 35% for a leading tech firm. M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence. Passionate about deploying cutting-edge AI solutions at AI Innovators Inc."

Read the full AI engineer resume example here.

#45. Java Developer Resume Summary

"Experienced Java Developer with 5 years of experience in building scalable and efficient applications. Contributed to a major project that enhanced application performance by 25%. Strong background in Spring Framework and microservices. Aiming to apply robust coding skills to develop innovative software solutions at XYZ Tech Solutions."

Read the full Java developer resume example here.

Health and Medicine Resume Summary Examples

#46. nurse resume summary.

“Registered nurse specialized in psychiatric nursing. Developed strong psychiatric evaluation and treatment planning skills after 5 years of working at Hospital X. Experienced in administrative work, management, and training new employees.”

Read the full nurse resume example here.

#47. Medical Assistant Resume Summary

“Certified Medical Assistant with 10 years of experience in working in a fast-paced environment, handling confidential paperwork, administering medication, and providing quality patient care. Proven ability to create positive rapport with patients, family, and staff. Completed and submitted clinical documentation following hospital regulations and experience in supporting diagnostic and technical treatment procedures.”

Read the full medical assistant resume example here.

#48. Dental Assistant Resume Summary

“Licensed dental practitioner with 4+ years in helping dentists prepare, perform, and document procedures. Strong hand-eye coordination, with skills in 4-handed dentistry and working with patients.”

#49. Dentist Resume Summary

"Experienced Dentist with 10 years of practice in general and cosmetic dentistry. Committed to providing exceptional patient care, demonstrated through a consistent record of patient satisfaction and successful dental procedures. Proficient in the latest dental technologies and techniques, including digital radiography and CAD/CAM dentistry, with a strong focus on preventive care and oral health education."

Read the full dentist resume example here.

#50. Pharmacist Resume Summary

"Detail-oriented Pharmacist with over 7 years of experience in retail and hospital settings. Proven ability in medication therapy management and pharmaceutical care, with a track record of efficiently managing prescription processing and patient counseling. Skilled in utilizing digital prescription systems and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of drug interactions and healthcare regulations."

Read the full pharmacist resume example here.

Creative Resume Summary Examples

#51. graphic designer resume summary.

"Senior graphic designer with 6+ years of experience in website design and branding, across a wide range of industries. Extensive experience in multimedia, marketing, and print design. Highly skilled in communications, digital storytelling, and Adobe Creative Suite."

Read the full graphic designer resume example here.

#52. UI/UX Designer Resume Summary

“Proactive UX designer with 5 years of experience in delivering enjoyable web and mobile products for the FinTech industry. Designed UI, UX, and marketing materials for 6 apps and 3 games at Company X, 2 of which were featured in Apple’s App Store. Skilled with Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite.”

#53. Product Designer Resume Summary

“Creative designer with 7 years experience in product design, packaging, and graphic design. Expertise in new product design, brand identity, and market research. Created and launched a new line of award-winning tableware that generated over $1 million in sales the first year.”

#54. Creative Director Resume Summary

“Experienced creative director, with 10+ years of experience in the advertising industry. Over the past 3 years, managed 2 separate creative teams, creating video ads for company clients. Worked with some high-profile clients, including IBM and Phillips.”

#55. Game Designer Resume Summary

"Innovative Game Designer with 5 years of experience in creating engaging and immersive gaming experiences. Led a team that developed 'AdventureQuest,' a game that won 'Best Mobile Game' at the Indie Game Awards and achieved over 500,000 downloads within the first year. Skilled in gameplay mechanics and story development, with proficiency in Unity and Unreal Engine. Dedicated to crafting games that resonate with players, combining artistic vision with user-friendly design."

Read the full game designer resume example here.

#56. Animator Resume Summary

"Creative Animator with over 8 years of experience in 2D and 3D animation, specializing in character and environmental animation. Proficient in using Maya, Adobe After Effects, and Blender, with a strong background in motion graphics and visual effects. Known for delivering high-quality animations under tight deadlines, contributing to successful animated features and advertising campaigns."

Read the full animator resume example here.

#57. Illustrator Resume Summary

"Award-winning Illustrator with a decade of professional experience, recognized for innovative and impactful visual storytelling. Recipient of the 'Illustrator of the Year' award at the Global Art Forum, with a portfolio that includes book illustrations, advertising campaigns, and digital content."

Read the full illustrator resume example here.

#58. Photographer Resume Summary

"Professional Photographer with a Master's in Fine Arts and 6 years of experience in commercial and portrait photography. Known for a unique aesthetic that combines technical skill with artistic creativity, resulting in visually stunning compositions. Holds a certification in digital photography from the Professional Photographers of America, with a portfolio that has been featured in several national photography exhibitions."

Read the full photographer resume example here.

#59. Actor Resume Summary

"Versatile Actor with 3 years of experience in commercials and television, known for a dynamic range that adapts seamlessly to varied roles. Strong background in stage combat and period drama. Proficient in multiple dialects and expressive character portrayal, enhancing authenticity in every performance."

Read the full actor resume example here.

#60. Writer Resume Summary

"Professional Writer and Blogger with 2 years of experience, specializing in lifestyle and travel content. Successfully increased blog readership by 40% over two years and contributed featured articles in 'Traveler's Digest' and 'Modern Living' magazines."

Read the full writer resume here.

#61. Editor Resume Summary

"Dedicated Editor with 10 years of experience in translated literature, focusing on Mandarin and Cantonese works. Expertise in preserving the original tone and cultural nuances, ensuring translations resonate with English-speaking audiences. Collaborated with acclaimed authors from China and Hong Kong, contributing to over 30 translated novels. Committed to bridging the gap between Eastern and Western literary worlds through meticulous and sensitive editing."

Read the full editor resume example here.

Education Resume Summary Examples

#62. professor resume summary.

"Distinguished Professor with 15 years of experience in higher education, specializing in Modern Literature. Published over 20 peer-reviewed articles and 3 books, receiving the Excellence in Research Award twice. Secured $500,000 in research grants and led multiple international academic collaborations. Committed to fostering critical thinking and research skills in students, enhancing the academic prestige of the department."

Read the full academic CV example here.

#63. Teacher Resume Summary

“Dedicated Teacher with 4 years of experience in elementary education, specializing in innovative teaching strategies. Implemented a project-based learning approach that increased student engagement by 30%. Eager to bring creative teaching methodologies and a passion for educational excellence to School ABC, contributing to student development and academic success.” 

Read the full teacher resume example here.

#64. Tutor Resume Summary

“Experienced Tutor with 2 years of expertise in mathematics and science, adept at simplifying complex concepts. Consistently helped students improve their grades by an average of one full letter grade.”

#65. College Student Resume Summary

"Proactive College Student majoring in Business Administration with strong leadership skills, demonstrated through roles in student government and the debate team. Organized multiple campus events, enhancing student engagement and participation. Seeking to apply organizational and communication skills in a professional internship, contributing to company projects while gaining hands-on experience."

Read the full college freshman resume example here.

#66. High School Student Resume Summary

"High School Student with 3+ months of experience as a cashier. Excellent time-management and communication skills. Actively involved in extracurricular activities, demonstrating strong teamwork and responsibility. Looking to join Retail Store X as a part-time sales representative."

Read the full high school resume example here.

Other Resume Summary Examples

#67. architect resume summary.

"Professional and creative architect with 10 years experience in developing construction drawings, 3D models, and doing design rendering. Served as a project architect at company X and won an honorable mention as a staff architect at XYZ Construction Awards 2023."

Read the full architect resume example here.

#68. Electrical Engineer Resume Resume Summary

"Electrical Engineer with 4 years of experience in power systems and automation. Holds a Master's in Electrical Engineering and a certification in PLC programming. Proven expertise in designing and implementing efficient electrical solutions for industrial applications."

Read the full electrical engineer resume example here.

#69. Interior Designer Resume Summary

"Creative Interior Designer with 3 years of experience, recognized for increasing client satisfaction by 30% through innovative design solutions. Portfolio includes residential and commercial projects, with a focus on modern and sustainable designs. Skilled in AutoCAD and 3D visualization, transforming client visions into reality."

Read the full interior designer resume example here.

#70. Construction Project Manager Resume Summary

"Construction Project Manager with a decade of experience in overseeing large-scale commercial and residential projects. Proven track record of completing projects on time and within budget, reducing costs by 20% on average. Skilled in team leadership and effective communication. Committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality."

Read the full construction project manager resume example here.

#71. Operations Manager Resume Summary

"Dynamic Operations Manager with 2 years of experience in streamlining processes for increased efficiency. Expertise in supply chain management and cost reduction strategies."

Read the full operations manager resume example here.

#72. Event Planner Resume Summary

"Seasoned Event Planner with 5 years of experience, successfully organized over 100 corporate and private events. Increased event attendance by 40% through innovative marketing strategies. Excited to bring expertise in event coordination and vendor relations to XYZ Celebrations."

Read the full event planner resume example here.

#73. Warehouse Worker Resume Summary

“Seasonal warehouse worker with experience working for Supermarket X and Supermarket Y. Diligent, organized, and very hard-working. Previous experience working in the service industry for 2+ years.”

Read the full warehouse worker resume example here.

#74. Welder Resume Summary

"Skilled Welder with 7 years of experience in MIG, TIG, and arc welding. Proficient in reading blueprints and maintaining high standards of safety and quality."

Read the full welder resume example here.

#75. Real Estate Agent Resume Summary

"Experienced Real Estate Agent with 6 years in residential and commercial property sales. Achieved a 25% year-on-year increase in sales volume. Known for excellent negotiation skills and a deep understanding of market trends."

Read the full real estate agent resume example here.

#76. Flight Attendant Resume Summary

"Dedicated Flight Attendant with 1 year of experience, fluent in Spanish and French. Excelled in providing top-notch customer service, contributing to a 15% increase in passenger satisfaction. Fluent in English, French, German, and Arabic. Eager to bring customer care expertise to Airline XYZ."

Read the full flight attendant resume example here.

#77. Paralegal Resume Summary

"Paralegal with 3 years of experience in corporate law, proficient in legal research and document drafting. Certified in legal software applications, enhancing case management efficiency."

Read the full paralegal resume example here.

#78. Social Worker Resume Summary

"Compassionate Social Worker with 6 years of experience in child and family services. Successfully managed caseloads of up to 50 people, improving service delivery by 20%. Skilled in crisis intervention and developing tailored support plans for diverse case needs."

Read the full social worker resume example here.

Resume Summary FAQs

Do you still have some questions about resume summaries? Check the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

#1. How Do You Write a Resume Summary with No Experience?

If you have no work experience whatsoever, you should write a resume objective instead of a resume summary.

A resume objective is also a brief paragraph that goes at the top of your resume. However, instead of focusing on your professional experience and accomplishments, it highlights your career goals, aspirations, skills, and academic achievements.

If you have any informal experience that’s relevant to the job, such as volunteer work or relevant coursework , you can still write a resume summary to highlight why you’re a great candidate.

#2. How Do I Start My Resume Summary?

The best way to start your resume summary is by writing down your job title and exact years of experience. You can also add an adjective that describes your strongest character traits or work ethic.

To make this easy, try this formula:

[Adjective/character trait] [job title] [your experience]. Looking to help/support/apply/assist/etc [employer’s name] [describe how you can be of help to the company]. [Your top achievements/qualifications]. 

#3. How Long Should My Resume Summary Be?

The resume summary should be brief and attention-grabbing. Ideally, it should be between two and four sentences long.

Its goal is to provide a snapshot of your career that can captivate the hiring manager into reading more.

If you want to give the employer more details and elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job in your own words, you can also write a cover letter to complement your resume.

#4. Should a Resume Summary Be Written in the First or Third Person?

As a general rule, your resume should avoid using first-person pronouns . This includes your resume summary.

That said, the third person sounds too impersonal – as if somebody else wrote the resume summary instead of you. Luckily, there’s a neat trick you can use to make your text flow better—just get rid of the pronouns altogether.

This way, instead of writing, “She is a marketer with 5+ years of experience in XYZ,” you can write, “Marketer with 5+ years of experience in XYZ,” and get your point across just as effectively.

#5. Should You Always Use the Same Resume Summary?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t use the same resume summary when applying to different jobs.

Your resume summary should be tailored to the specific job ads and reflect how you can meet the company’s unique needs. If your current resume summary can be applied to different job applications, it isn’t as effective and tailored as it should be.

When writing your resume, go through the job ad for the specific position and try to include the skills or qualifications the employer is looking for. Make sure to also mention any relevant experience and your top achievements, and you’ll have the perfect resume summary.

#6. What Are Other Names for a Resume Summary?

Across the internet, you might find different names for what we’re calling a resume summary in our article. Some of these names include:

• Resume profile
• Career summary
• Personal statement
• Qualifications summary
• Summary of experiences
• Summary of qualification

If you’re heading for a career in academia, a “personal statement” means something different. Check out our detailed guide to writing an academic personal statement to learn more!

Key Takeaways

And that’s our full guide to writing a resume summary!

Hopefully, now you feel more confident about adding this finishing touch to your resume.

Before we go, let’s recap everything we covered about writing resume summaries:

• A resume summary is a two to four-sentence long paragraph that tells the hiring manager your key selling points. These can include your years of experience, exact job title, relevant skills, qualifications, and impressive achievements.
• If you don’t have any work experience, you can opt for a resume objective instead. This way, you can focus more on your professional goals and motivation for applying.
• The goal of a resume summary is to catch the hiring manager’s attention. Do this by tailoring your resume summary to the job ad and addressing what the company needs in a candidate.
• Back up your achievements with data whenever possible. Mentioning the exact numbers, dates, and results makes you seem more credible.
• Use power words and action verbs instead of generic descriptions to make your resume summary pop.

Need more career advice? Check out our career blog for more useful articles!

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The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Resume Summary: 40+ Examples and Essential Tips

Introduction

In today's fiercely competitive job market, your resume is often the first, and sometimes the only chance to make a great impression. It's your personal marketing tool, a concise showcase of your career story, aimed at capturing the attention of employers and recruiters. In the heart of this crucial document lies the resume summary -- a powerful, brief statement that encapsulates your professional identity.

Understanding how to craft a compelling resume summary is essential. It's more than just a few lines of text; it's a strategic tool that can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. This guide is designed to be your roadmap in navigating the art of writing an effective resume summary. We'll cover everything from the basics to advanced tips, including over 40 industry-specific examples to inspire and guide you.

With a focus on the latest trends and employer expectations, this guide is an invaluable resource for job seekers across various industries and experience levels. Whether you're a fresh graduate, a seasoned executive, or transitioning to a new career path, you'll find practical advice and examples tailored to your situation.

Prepare to dive deep into the world of resume summaries, where every word counts and the right phrase can make all the difference!

Overview of the Importance of a Resume Summary

A resume summary is more than just an introduction to your resume; it's a critical component that can determine whether a recruiter reads on or moves your application aside. Think of it as a 30-second elevator pitch that highlights your most valuable skills, experiences, and achievements. It's your chance to make a powerful first impression and set the tone for the rest of your resume.

The MECE Framework: Clarity and Completeness in Resume Summaries

To ensure your resume summary is both clear and complete, adopt the MECE framework - Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive. This approach ensures that:

Mutually Exclusive : Each point you make is distinct and doesn't overlap with others. This clarity helps avoid repetition and keeps your summary concise and to the point.

Collectively Exhaustive : Your summary collectively covers all the essential aspects of your professional profile. It should touch upon your key skills, significant achievements, and unique value propositions.

By adhering to the MECE framework, your resume summary becomes a well-organized and comprehensive snapshot of your professional journey.

Understanding Resume Summaries

What is a resume summary.

A resume summary is a brief statement at the top of your resume that highlights your professional qualifications. It's a concise aggregation of your skills, experiences, and achievements, tailored to the specific job you're applying for.

The Role of a Summary in Your Resume

The summary plays a pivotal role in your resume. It's the first section recruiters often read, and it sets the stage for the rest of your document. A well-written summary can grab attention, make a strong first impression, and encourage the reader to consider your application seriously.

Difference Between a Resume Objective and Summary

Many job seekers confuse resume summaries with resume objectives. The key difference lies in focus and intent. A resume objective states your career goals and what you hope to achieve in the job. In contrast, a resume summary focuses on what you can offer the employer based on your skills and experiences. It's more about your professional identity than your aspirations.

Components of an Effective Resume Summary

An effective resume summary typically includes:

Years of Experience : Clearly state how many years of relevant experience you have.

Core Competencies : Highlight your key skills and areas of expertise.

Notable Achievements : Mention significant accomplishments that are relevant to the job.

Professional Identity : Give a glimpse of your professional persona and what makes you unique.

By combining these elements, you create a snapshot of your professional life that's both informative and enticing to potential employers.

How to Craft Your Resume Summary

Crafting an effective resume summary requires a blend of specificity, relevance, and conciseness. Here's how you can create a summary that stands out:

Tailoring Your Resume Summary to the Job Ad

To ensure your resume summary resonates with the job you're applying for, tailor it to match the job ad. Analyze the job description to identify key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Incorporate these elements into your summary, using similar language. This customization not only shows that you're a good fit for the role but also helps your resume pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that scan for relevant keywords.

The Evergreen Formula for a Good Resume Summary

A tried-and-tested formula for a resume summary includes:

Professional Title : Start with your job title or the position you're aiming for.

Years of Experience : Mention your years of relevant professional experience.

Key Skills/Strengths : Highlight two to three key skills or strengths.

Major Achievements : Include a notable achievement or contribution.

Value Proposition : Conclude with how you can add value to the prospective employer.

Key Elements to Include

When writing your summary, include these key elements:

Specificity : Be specific about your experiences and achievements.

Relevance : Tailor your summary to align with the job requirements.

Quantifiable Achievements : Use numbers and data to quantify your accomplishments.

Key Skills and Expertise : Mention skills that are highly relevant to the position.

Professional Tone : Maintain a professional tone that reflects your career level.

Writing Techniques for a Compelling Summary

Here are some writing techniques to make your summary compelling:

Use Active Voice : Write in an active voice for clarity and impact.

Strong Adjectives : Use strong adjectives to describe your skills and experiences.

Conciseness : Keep it short and to the point, ideally under 50 words.

First-Person Without Pronouns : Write in the first person but omit personal pronouns.

Customization : Tailor your summary for each job application.

Tips for Clear and Concise Writing

Avoid Jargon : Use clear, straightforward language.

Short Sentences : Use short, punchy sentences to maintain reader engagement.

Focus on Highlights : Concentrate on your most impressive achievements and skills.

Eliminate Fluff : Remove any unnecessary words or phrases.

Proofread : Always proofread your summary for grammar and clarity.

How to Showcase Your Unique Value Proposition

Your unique value proposition (UVP) is what sets you apart from other candidates. To effectively showcase your UVP:

Identify Your Unique Skills : Think about what unique skills or experiences you bring to the table.

Relate to the Job : Ensure your UVP is relevant to the job you're applying for.

Be Specific : Use specific examples to illustrate your unique qualities.

Convey Confidence : Write in a confident tone that reflects your belief in your abilities.

Connect to Employer Needs : Show how your unique qualities can benefit the employer.

By combining these strategies, your resume summary will not only capture the essence of your professional identity but also significantly boost your chances of standing out in a crowded job market.

50+ Resume Summary Examples by Industry

To give you a clearer idea of how to craft your resume summary, here are over 50 examples tailored to various industries and job titles. Each example is designed to reflect the best practices and techniques discussed earlier.

Technology and IT Sector

Software developer.

"Detail-oriented Software Developer with 5+ years of experience in developing scalable web applications. Proficient in modern JavaScript frameworks and a strong advocate for agile methodologies. Reduced load time by 30% for a high-traffic web app."

"Experienced IT Manager, adept in infrastructure management, system upgrades, and team leadership. Led successful migration to cloud-based systems, resulting in a 20% reduction in operating costs."

Network Administrator

"Cisco-certified Network Administrator with over 7 years in configuring and maintaining complex network systems. Skilled in troubleshooting and network security enhancements, leading to a 99.9% system uptime record."

Data Scientist

"Data Scientist with a passion for turning data into actionable insights. Expertise in machine learning, data mining, and predictive modeling. Drove a 15% increase in customer engagement through data-driven strategies."

Cybersecurity Specialist

"Dedicated Cybersecurity Specialist with a strong background in network security and threat analysis. Implemented robust security protocols that decreased security breaches by 40%."

System Analyst

"System Analyst with 8 years of experience in system design and optimization. Spearheaded a system overhaul that increased overall efficiency by 25%."

Database Administrator

"Database Administrator proficient in SQL and NoSQL databases. Optimized database operations, resulting in a 20% improvement in performance."

Web Developer

"Creative Web Developer skilled in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Developed an award-winning e-commerce site with an intuitive user interface."

UX/UI Designer

"Innovative UX/UI Designer with a knack for creating user-friendly designs. Increased user engagement by 35% through effective redesign of a popular mobile application."

Healthcare and Medical Field

"Compassionate Registered Nurse with a strong focus on patient care and advocacy. Implemented patient education programs that increased patient satisfaction scores by 25%."

"Board-certified Doctor specializing in internal medicine. Recognized for excellence in patient care and diagnostic accuracy."

Healthcare Administrator

"Efficient Healthcare Administrator with 10 years of experience in managing hospital operations. Reduced operational costs by 15% through strategic process improvements."

Medical Technician

"Detail-oriented Medical Technician skilled in laboratory testing and diagnostic procedures. Increased lab efficiency by 20% through process automation."

"Licensed Pharmacist known for accurate prescription dispensing and patient counseling. Improved medication compliance rates by 30% through educational initiatives."

Physical Therapist

"Dedicated Physical Therapist with a track record of developing effective treatment plans. Achieved a 95% patient satisfaction rate through personalized care."

Dental Hygienist

"Experienced Dental Hygienist with a focus on preventive care and patient education. Increased patient retention by 20% through exceptional care and communication."

Radiologic Technologist

"Certified Radiologic Technologist with expertise in MRI and CT imaging. Improved imaging processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in patient wait times."

Finance and Accounting

"Detail-oriented Accountant with expertise in financial reporting and analysis. Streamlined accounting processes, leading to a 10% reduction in month-end close time."

Financial Analyst

"Analytical Financial Analyst specializing in budget forecasting and financial modeling. Contributed to a 5% increase in profitability through strategic financial planning."

"Certified Auditor with a focus on compliance and risk management. Identified and mitigated financial risks, safeguarding company assets."

Tax Specialist

"Tax Specialist with a strong track record in tax planning and compliance for small businesses. Helped clients save an average of 20% on tax liabilities through strategic planning."

Investment Banker

"Results-driven Investment Banker with a history of successful mergers and acquisitions. Closed deals worth over $500 million, maximizing client ROI."

Credit Analyst

"Credit Analyst with a keen eye for risk assessment and creditworthiness. Improved loan portfolio quality by 15% through diligent analysis and recommendations."

Payroll Specialist

"Efficient Payroll Specialist, proficient in various payroll systems. Implemented new payroll procedures that reduced processing time by 25%."

Budget Analyst

"Strategic Budget Analyst adept in financial planning and cost analysis. Played a key role in reducing operational costs by 10% through effective budget management."

The examples for the remaining industries will be provided in the following sections.

Education and Academic Roles

"Dedicated Teacher with 8+ years of experience in high school education. Specialized in innovative curriculum development, resulting in a 20% increase in student engagement."

"Tenured Professor in Psychology with a strong publication record and commitment to student mentorship. Recognized for developing a groundbreaking research program in behavioral psychology."

Educational Administrator

"Dynamic Educational Administrator with a decade of experience in improving school operations. Led initiatives that increased graduation rates by 15%."

School Counselor

"Empathetic School Counselor skilled in student guidance and support. Developed and implemented a successful student wellness program that decreased absenteeism by 30%."

Special Education Teacher

"Compassionate Special Education Teacher with a focus on creating inclusive classroom environments. Successfully integrated assistive technologies, enhancing learning for students with diverse needs."

"Innovative Librarian experienced in digital and print resource management. Increased library patronage by 40% through community outreach and technology integration."

Academic Advisor

"Detail-oriented Academic Advisor, known for helping students navigate complex career paths. Increased student retention by providing personalized and effective academic planning."

Curriculum Developer

"Creative Curriculum Developer with expertise in designing engaging educational content. Developed a STEM curriculum that was adopted by 50+ schools nationwide."

Creative Industries

Graphic designer.

"Creative Graphic Designer with a flair for developing visually appealing designs. Increased brand visibility by 30% for clients through innovative design strategies."

Art Director

"Art Director with a strong vision for brand identity and advertising campaigns. Led a campaign that won an industry award for creative excellence."

"Talented Copywriter with a knack for crafting compelling brand stories. Increased customer engagement by 40% through effective and persuasive content creation."

Video Editor

"Dynamic Video Editor with a talent for creating captivating visual narratives. Edited a documentary that received critical acclaim at international film festivals."

Fashion Designer

"Innovative Fashion Designer with a passion for sustainable design. Launched a successful eco-friendly clothing line that gained national recognition."

Photographer

"Professional Photographer with a portfolio that captures compelling narratives. Awarded for outstanding work in portrait photography."

Interior Designer

"Creative Interior Designer known for conceptualizing unique and functional spaces. Transformed numerous residential spaces, leading to a 95% client satisfaction rate."

Illustrator

"Versatile Illustrator with a unique style, specializing in digital and traditional mediums. Collaborated on a children's book that became a bestseller."

Sales and Marketing

Sales executive.

"Dynamic Sales Executive with a track record of exceeding sales targets in competitive markets. Grew annual sales by 25% through strategic client acquisition and retention strategies."

Marketing Manager

"Innovative Marketing Manager with expertise in digital marketing and brand management. Increased online presence and brand awareness for clients by 40%."

Account Manager

"Client-focused Account Manager with a history of nurturing long-term client relationships. Increased client retention rate by 35% through exceptional service and understanding of client needs."

Brand Manager

"Brand Manager with a talent for developing and executing successful brand strategies. Elevated brand visibility and market share for several key products."

Digital Marketing Specialist

"Digital Marketing Specialist adept at SEO and social media marketing. Improved website traffic by 50% through targeted online campaigns."

Public Relations Specialist

"Public Relations Specialist with a flair for creating impactful media strategies. Successfully managed crisis communications, maintaining brand reputation."

Sales Associate

"Enthusiastic Sales Associate with a knack for upselling and customer service. Consistently achieved top sales performance in a retail environment."

Marketing Analyst

"Data-driven Marketing Analyst specializing in market research and analytics. Provided insights that informed marketing strategies, resulting in a 20% increase in market share."

The examples for other industries will be provided in the subsequent sections.

Other Industries

Project manager.

"Accomplished Project Manager with a track record of delivering complex projects on time and within budget. Led a team for a Massachusetts-based electronics firm, resulting in a 30% increase in operational efficiency."

"HR Manager with extensive experience in talent acquisition and employee relations. Implemented innovative HR strategies that increased employee retention by 25%."

Legal Assistant

"Detail-oriented Legal Assistant with expertise in case preparation and legal research. Supported high-profile cases, contributing to a 90% case win rate."

Supply Chain Manager

"Efficient Supply Chain Manager with a focus on optimizing logistics and inventory management. Reduced supply chain costs by 15% through strategic vendor negotiations."

Quality Assurance Manager

"Quality Assurance Manager with a strong background in implementing robust QA processes. Improved product quality by 20%, leading to higher customer satisfaction rates."

Construction Manager

"Experienced Construction Manager known for delivering projects safely and efficiently. Completed multiple high-value projects while maintaining a zero-accident safety record."

Environmental Scientist

"Dedicated Environmental Scientist with a passion for sustainable development. Led environmental impact assessments for major projects, influencing eco-friendly changes."

Event Planner

"Creative Event Planner with a talent for organizing memorable corporate events. Successfully managed the Northeast Lean Conference, receiving accolades for flawless execution."

Experience Level Variations in Resume Summaries

For recent graduates.

"Recent graduate with a Bachelor's in Business Administration, eager to apply academic knowledge in a practical setting. Completed a successful internship at a leading marketing firm, demonstrating strong analytical and communication skills."

Mid-Career Professionals

"Seasoned Marketing Professional with 10+ years of experience in brand management and campaign development. Proven track record of increasing brand recognition and sales revenue in competitive markets."

Senior Executives

"Strategic Executive with 20 years of leadership experience in the technology sector. Spearheaded business transformations, resulting in a 50% increase in market share and profitability."

Special Considerations in Resume Summaries

Career change scenarios.

"Dynamic professional transitioning from a 10-year career in journalism to public relations. Combines exceptional writing skills with a proven ability to manage high-profile media campaigns."

Dealing with Employment Gaps

"Marketing Specialist returning to the workforce after a career break. Kept skills sharp through freelance projects and continuous learning, bringing fresh perspectives and up-to-date industry knowledge."

International Resumes

"Experienced Software Engineer with a career spanning the US and Europe. Brings a global perspective to software development, with a focus on cross-cultural team collaboration and innovation."

In the next sections, we will explore the final touches on crafting your resume summary, including common mistakes to avoid and best practices for maximum impact.

Final Touches on Your Resume Summary

Putting the final touches on your resume summary can significantly enhance its impact. Here are some guidelines to ensure your summary is polished and effective.

Do's and Don'ts of Resume Summary Writing

• Do Customize for Each Application :

Tailor your summary to align with each job's requirements.

• Do Use Keywords :

Incorporate relevant keywords from the job posting for ATS optimization.

• Do Keep It Concise :

Aim for 3-4 sentences, focusing on your most relevant qualifications.

• Do Use Metrics :

Quantify achievements where possible to provide concrete evidence of your capabilities.

• Do Proofread :

Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors.

Don'ts:

• Don't Use Clichés :

Avoid overused phrases like "hard worker" or "team player."

• Don't Be Vague :

Be specific about your skills and accomplishments.

• Don't Include Personal Information :

Focus solely on professional qualifications.

• Don't Write in Third Person :

Keep the tone direct and personal.

• Don't Overlook Formatting :

Ensure your summary aligns with the overall style of your resume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being Too General : Generic summaries that could apply to anyone won't stand out.

Ignoring the Job Description : Failing to tailor your summary to the job posting can make it seem irrelevant.

Overusing Jargon : While industry-specific terms are important, too much jargon can make your summary hard to understand.

Forgetting to Showcase Personality : Your summary should also give a sense of who you are as a professional.

Neglecting Keywords for ATS : Many resumes are first screened by software, so missing keywords can lead to your resume being overlooked.

Best Practices for Maximum Impact

Focus on Achievements : Emphasize results and achievements over duties and responsibilities.

Use Action Words : Start sentences with action verbs to make your summary more dynamic.

Highlight Unique Qualifications : Mention any unique skills or experiences that set you apart.

Be Honest : Only include skills and experiences that accurately reflect your professional background.

Use a Professional Tone : Maintain a tone that reflects your professional demeanor.

Advanced Tips for Enhancing Your Summary

Link to Personal Branding : If you have a professional online presence, like a LinkedIn profile, consider including it.

Use Industry Buzzwords Wisely : Incorporate current industry buzzwords, but only if they genuinely relate to your experience and skills.

Consider the Company Culture : Tailor your summary to align with the company's culture and values.

Stay Updated : Keep abreast of trends in resume writing and update your summary accordingly.

Customizing for Each Application

Customizing your resume summary for each job application is crucial. Pay attention to:

Specific Job Requirements : Highlight experiences and skills that directly address the job's requirements.

Company-Specific Language : Use language and terminology that align with the company's branding and values.

Industry Trends : Be aware of current trends in the industry you're applying to and reflect them in your summary.

By following these guidelines and tips, you can craft a resume summary that not only captures your professional essence but also significantly boosts your chances of making a memorable impression on potential employers.

Key Takeaways

Recap: the power of a well-crafted resume summary.

A well-crafted resume summary is a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. It's the first glimpse employers have into who you are as a professional and what you bring to the table. When done right, it sets the tone for the rest of your resume, highlighting your most impressive achievements and unique skills.

The Continuous Evolution of Resume Trends

It's important to remember that resume trends are continuously evolving. What works today might not be as effective tomorrow. Staying updated with the latest trends, such as the increasing importance of ATS-friendly resumes, is crucial. Adapt your resume summary accordingly to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

Frequently Asked Questions about Resume Summaries

Q1: how long should a resume summary be.

A: Ideally, a resume summary should be about 3-4 sentences long, or around 50-100 words. It needs to be concise enough to hold the reader's attention while providing enough information to make an impact.

Q2: Can I use the same summary for different job applications?

A: It's best to customize your resume summary for each job application. Tailoring your summary to the specific job and company shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.

Q3: How do I write a resume summary with no experience?

A: Focus on transferable skills, academic achievements, internships, and relevant coursework. Highlight your enthusiasm, potential, and how your educational background aligns with the job requirements.

Q4: Tips for optimizing a resume summary for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

• Use Keywords : Include keywords from the job description.
• Avoid Graphics and Unusual Formatting : ATS can't read images or unusual fonts.
• Use Standard Resume Sections : Stick to traditional headings like 'Work Experience' and 'Education'.
• Keep It Simple : Use a clean, straightforward format.

By keeping these key takeaways in mind, you can craft a resume summary that not only stands out but also aligns with current trends and employer expectations. Remember, your resume summary is your opportunity to make a strong first impression, so invest the time and effort to make it count.

Recommended Reading

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24 Resume Summary Examples That Get Interviews

By Biron Clark

Published: November 8, 2023

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

A resume summary statement usually comes right after a job seeker’s contact info and before other resume sections such as skills and work experience. It provides employers with a brief overview of a candidate’s career accomplishments and qualifications before they read further. Because of how early it appears on the document, your resume summary statement (or your CV “profile” in the UK) is one of the first places recruiters and employers look. And without the right information, they’ll doubt that you’re qualified and may move to another resume.

So I got in touch with a select group of professional resume writers, coaches and career experts to get their best resume summary examples you can use and adapt to write a resume summary that stands out and gets interviews.

As a former recruiter myself, I’ll also share my best tips to write your resume summary effectively.

Why the Resume/CV Summary is Important

You may have heard that recruiters only spend 8-10 seconds looking at your resume. The truth is: they spend that long deciding whether to read more. They do glance that quickly at first and may move on if your background doesn’t look like a fit. However, if you grab their attention, they’ll read far more. Recruiters aren’t deciding to interview you in 8-10 seconds, but they are ruling people out in 8-10 seconds. And this is why your resume summary is so crucial. It appears high up on your resume (usually right after your header/contact info) and is one of the first sections employers see. So it’s part of what they’ll see in the first 8-10 seconds.

Your resume summary statement is one of your first (and one of very few) chances to get the employer to stop skimming through their pile of resumes and focus on YOU.

Watch: Resume Summary Examples That Get Interviews

10 resume summary examples:.

These career summary examples will help you at any experience level – whether you’re writing a professional summary after a long executive career, or writing your first resume summary without any experience! After you finish this article you’re NEVER going to have to send out a limp, weak resume summary statement again (and you’ll get far more interviews  because of it).

1. Healthcare Sales Executive Resume Summary Example:

Turnaround & Ground Up Leadership – Concept-to-execution strategies for untapped products, markets + solutions that yield 110% revenue growth – Negotiates partnerships with leading distributors + hospitals—Medline to Centara + Novant Health to Mayo Clinic –  Revitalizes underperforming sales organizations via scalable, sustainable infrastructures emulated as best practice –  C-Level networks of clinical + supply chain leadership acquired during tenures with XXX, XXX and XXX

Why this resume summary is good:

This resumes summary example’s strength lies in the detailed, unique information that has been included. By including revenue stats, names of past employers and partners, the reader right away sees that this person will bring to the role a strong networking ability with key players in his industry, and more importantly can build, grow and revitalize a sales organization, market or product.

By:  Virginia Franco, Founder of Virginia Franco Resumes  and Forbes contributor.

2. 15+ Year Business Owner Resume Summary Statement:

Dynamic and motivated marketing professional with a proven record of generating and building relationships, managing projects from concept to completion, designing educational strategies, and coaching individuals to success. Skilled in building cross-functional teams, demonstrating exceptional communication skills, and making critical decisions during challenges. Adaptable and transformational leader with an ability to work independently, creating effective presentations, and developing opportunities that further establish organizational goals.

Why this is a good summary section:

This is a resume summary statement that was for  a candidate returning to work after having her own business for 15+ years. Because of this, we needed to emphasize her soft skills and what she can bring to this potential position. In addition, we highlighted the skills she has honed as a business owner so that she can utilize these qualifications as a sales professional, account manager , and someone knowledgeable about nutrition, medicine, and the overall sales process.

By: Dr. Heather Rothbauer-Wanish. MBA, Ph.D., CPRW, and Founder of Feather Communications

3. Human Resources Generalist Resume Summary Example:

Human Resources Generalist with progressive experience managing employee benefits & compliance, employee hiring & onboarding, performance management processes, licensure tracking and HR records. Dependable and organized team player with the ability to communicate effectively and efficiently. Skilled at building relationships with employees across all levels of an organization. Proficient with HRIS, applicant tracking and benefits management.

Why this is a good resume summary:

The applicant highlights their experience across a wide range of HR functions from the very first sentence, and continues this pattern throughout the rest of the summary. They then use easily digestible langue to showcase their hard skills (in the first & fourth sentences) and soft skills (in the second & third sentences). They also integrate a variety of keywords to get past automated job application systems , without sounding spammy or without overdoing it.

By: Kyle Elliott, MPA/CHES,  Career Coach and Consultant

4. Social Media Marketing CV Profile Example (UK):

Social media expert with successes in the creation and management of social media strategies and campaigns for global retail organisations. Extensive experience in the commercial utilisation of multiple social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube; I build successful social strategies that increase brand awareness, promote customer engagement and ultimately drive web traffic and conversions.

Why this summary is good:

This summary is well-written, short, sharp, and gives recruiters a high-level explanation of the candidate’s core offerings in a persuasive and punchy style. A quick scan of this profile tells you the exact type of social media platforms the candidate is an expert in, as well as the campaigns they have experience running and types of organizations they have worked for. Most importantly, the summary is rounded off by showing the results that this person achieves for their employers, such as increased web traffic and conversions.

Editor’s note: This CV profile summary was written for the UK market… this is a great one to use/copy, but make sure you put it through a spell-checker if you’re applying for jobs in the US (utilisation vs. utilization, etc.)

By: Andrew Fennell, Director at StandOut CV , contributor for The Guardian and Business Insider

5. Marketing Manager Professional Summary Example:

Marketing Manager with over eight years of experience. Proven success in running email marketing campaigns and implementing marketing strategies that have pulled in a 20% increase in qualified leads. Proficient in content, social media and inbound marketing strategies. Skilled, creative and innovative.

This resume summary stands out because it gets straight to the point. By immediately introducing the number of years of experience the candidate has, the HR manager doesn’t need to spend time adding up years. The candidate also jumps right into his or her strongest skill, provides a statistic , then gives additional skills.

By: Sarah Landrum, career expert and contributor at Entrepreneur.com and Forbes

6. Warehouse Supervisor Resume Summary Example:

Warehouse Supervisor with Management, Customer Service, & Forklift Experience –  Dependable manager with 15+ years of experience in warehouse management and employee supervision. –  Skilled at managing inventory control, shipping & receiving, customer relations and safety & compliance. –  Certified Power Equipment Trainer, Forklift Operator and Reach Operator skilled at coaching other staff. –  Promoted to positions of increased responsibility given strong people and project management skills.

The applicant was applying for a warehouse supervisor position that required them to have demonstrated management, customer service and forklift experience. As such, the applicant showcased their experience in these areas with a few keywords in the title, followed by additional details in the accompanying bullet points. Their final bullet shows a record of promotions, while reinforcing the applicant’s customer service and project management skills.

7. IT Project Manager Resume Summary Example:

Experienced Project Manager with vast IT experience. Skills include computer networking, analytical thinking and creative problem solving. Able to apply customer service concepts to IT to improve user experience for clients, employees and administration.

Because this candidate is switching career paths, it’s important he or she take skills used for previous positions and apply those skills to the new job listing. This is a great example because the candidate makes it clear that his or her experience is not in the new field, but that they are still able to bring relevant experience to the table. When writing your resume summary, keep these tips in mind: Use writing that is straight to the point, clear and concise, you’ll have a higher chance of getting noticed by the hiring manager.

8. Career-Changer Resume Summary Example:

Earn trust, uncover key business drivers and find common ground as chief negotiator and identifier of revenue opportunities in sales, leadership and account management roles spanning e-Commerce, air travel and high-tech retail. Navigate cultural challenges while jumping time zones, lead international airline crews and manage corporate accounts to deliver an exceptional customer experience. A self-taught techie sought after as a go-to for complex billing systems and SaaS platforms alike—bridging the divide between technology and plain-speak. – Tenacious Quest for Success + Learning . Earned MBA and BS in just 3 years while working full-time – gaining hands-on experience in research- and data-driven product roadmap development, pricing and positioning. – Results-Driven Leadership. Whether leading Baby Boomers, Gen X or Millennials—figures out what makes teams tick, trains and transforms individuals into top-performers. – Challenger of Conventional Wisdom. Always ask the WHY. Improve the user experience through smart, strategic thinking that anticipates outcomes. Present cases that influence, and lead change that drives efficiency and profitability.

This client was eager for a career change and had moved from role to role and industry to industry. After completing her Master’s degree, she was eager to tie her skills together to land a role – which she did – as a Senior Technology Account Strategist for a global travel company. Although a bit longer than a traditional summary, its strength lies in the details. Without ever getting to the experience section, the reader gets a clear idea of the scope of responsibility, and hard and soft skills the candidate brings to the table.

By: Virginia Franco, Founder of Virginia Franco Resumes  and Forbes contributor.

9. Project Management Executive Professional Summary Example:

15+ years of initiating and delivering sustained results and effective change for Fortune 500 firms across a wide range of industries including enterprise software, digital marketing, advertising technology, e-commerce and government. Major experience lies in strategizing and leading cross-functional teams to bring about fundamental change and improvement in strategy, process, and profitability – both as a leader and expert consultant.

Why this resume summary is good:

“Project Manager” is one of those job titles that’s REALLY broad. You can find project managers earning $50K, and others earning $250K. The client I wrote this for was at the Director level, and had worked for some of the biggest and best tech companies in her city. So this resume profile section shows her level and experience, and the wide array of areas she has responsibility for in her current work. You can borrow or use some of the phrasing here to show that you’ve been responsible for many important areas in your past work.

By: Biron Clark, Founder of  CareerSidekick.com.

10. Startup And Finance Management Consultant Career Summary Example:

Experienced strategist, entrepreneur and startup enthusiast with a passion for building businesses and challenging the status quo. 8+ year track record of defining new business strategies, launching new ventures, and delivering operational impact, both as a co-founder and management consultant. 

Why this resume summary example is good:

This summary was for a highly-talented management consultant looking to break out of finance, and into trendier tech companies like Uber . His track record and educational background were great, so the goal of this summary section was to stand out and show he’s more than just the typical consultant with a finance background. So we emphasized his passion for startups, and his ability to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. That’s something that companies like Uber and other “disruptive” tech companies look for.

14 Resume Summary Examples for Various Industries

Compassionate and effective 5th-grade teacher with experience overseeing the classroom and preparing lessons. Extensive experience encouraging students through positive reinforcement and motivational techniques. Collaborate well with school administration and other members of the teaching team. Ensure all students meet learning requirements, including literacy, social, and arithmetic skills.

2. Teacher’s Assistant

Goal-oriented teacher’s assistant with ten years of experience working with elementary school children. Aid teachers with lesson planning, classroom settings, and group instruction. Model positive behavior and maintain order in the classroom. Willingness to take on additional responsibilities to meet learning objectives.

Tech Industry

3. computer programmer.

Innovative computer programmer with a proven track record of writing high-quality code and supporting team needs with subject matter expertise. Adept in multiple programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, and C++. Ability to troubleshoot complex programming issues with inventive solutions. 

4. Cybersecurity Analyst

Dedicated cybersecurity analyst with ten years of experience in online security research, execution, planning, and maintenance. Proven track record of identifying business risks and proactively resolving them. Experience designing and instituting layered network security for large-scale organizations. Train users and other staff members on IT safety procedures and preventive techniques.

Skilled healthcare professional with ten years of experience in patient care, diagnosis, and providing appropriate treatments and medical services. Manage medical staff and resolve complex medical cases with maximum efficiency. Communicate the patient’s condition and treatment plan in easily understood terminology. Remain current with the latest advancements in medicine and research to ensure patients receive proper care.

6. Registered Nurse

Seasoned registered nurse offering comprehensive patient care in emergency room settings. Experience handling diverse patient populations and caring for various conditions. Proven leadership managing nursing teams and other staff. Focus on enhancing patient care and satisfaction through empathetic communication and excellent customer service. 

7. Digital Marketing Manager

Forward-thinking digital marketing manager experienced in all facets of digital marketing, including social media management, PPC advertising, SEO, and email marketing. Proven experience creating comprehensive marketing plans that improve lead prospecting and enhance brand awareness. Up to date with the newest tools available for digital marketing campaigns.

8. Marketing Analyst

Industrious marketing analyst well-versed in analyzing marketing campaign analytics and making recommendations to improve performance. Collaborate with account managers and use KPI metrics to explain the results of marketing initiatives. Meticulous with a strong work ethic and robust communication skills.

Food and Service Industry

Experienced wait staff member capable of managing orders, processing payments, and upselling menu items. Ensure restaurant guests feel welcome with attentive service catered to their needs. Remain current on updates to the menu and assist guests with selecting orders to meet their dietary requirements. Maintain a positive attitude and focus during busy restaurant periods.

10. Hotel Receptionist

Friendly hotel receptionist with extensive experience handling guest check-ins, check-out, and payments. Facilitate a positive guest experience with polished customer service skills and a readiness to address common inquiries and complaints. Collaborate well with other hotel team members, including executive administration and on-site restaurant staff.

Business/Office Jobs

11. financial analyst.

Highly motivated financial analyst with a proven track record of recommending appropriate financial plans based on financial monitoring, data collection, and business strategizing. Experienced in qualitative and quantitative analysis, forecasting, and financial modeling. Excellent communication skills for building and fostering long-term business relationships across the organization.

12. Tax Accountant

Experienced tax accountant with ten years of experience preparing federal and state tax returns for corporations and partnerships. Monitor changes in laws to ensure the organization properly complies with reporting requirements. Assist with tax audits, ensuring the team receives proper supporting evidence for tax positions. Analyze and resolve complex tax issues. Look for available tax savings opportunities for corporations with an aggregate savings of $500K last year. Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.

Sales and Customer Service

13. sales representative.

Enthusiastic sales representative with expertise in identifying prospects and converting qualified leads to paying customers. Provide quality customer service and contribute to team sales success. Offer exceptional communication skills and seek to understand client needs before making the appropriate product recommendations. Continually meet and exceed sales goals. Leverage extensive knowledge of available products to provide appropriate client solutions and enhance customer loyalty and retention.

14. Customer Service Associate

Knowledgeable customer service professional with extensive experience in the insurance industry. Known as a team player with a friendly demeanor and proven ability to develop positive rapport with clients. Maintain ongoing customer satisfaction that contributes to overall company success. Highly articulate, with a results-oriented approach that addresses client inquiries and issues while maintaining strong partnerships. Collaborate well with the customer service team while also engaging independent decision-making skills.

Now you have 24 professional resume summary statements and some explanations of why they’re effective. Next, I’ll share tips for how to write your own in case you’re still unsure how to begin based on these examples above.

How to Write a Resume Summary: Steps and Hints

We’ve looked at 10 great resume summary examples above. As you begin writing a resume summary for yourself, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Read the employer’s job description. Your career summary shouldn’t be a long list of everything you’ve done; it should be a refined list of skills and experiences that demonstrate you’re a fit for their job.
• Mention your current job title if relevant. One common way to begin your resume summary is to state your current job title.
• Explain how you can help employers achieve their goals or solve their problems.
• Consider using bold text to emphasize one or two key phrases.
• Include any relevant metrics and data like dollar amounts, years of experience, size of teams led, etc. This helps your resume stand out.
• Focus on making the employer want to read more. The goal of your resume summary isn’t to show everything you can do, but to grab their attention and show enough that they continue reading.

Creating a Customized Resume Summary

While general summaries are appropriate when applying for jobs requiring similar skills and experience, a customized resume summary can enhance your chances of moving on to the next step in the hiring process. 

That’s because most companies use automated tracking systems (ATS) to review submitted resumes for content directly related to the job posting. If you use keywords and natural language phrases in your summary that interlink to the job description, you’ll have a much higher chance of passing the ATS review.

Let’s look at an example of a resume summary that is customized for the specific job description below:

“Highly motivated social media specialist with strong project management skills. Creative marketer skilled in crafting innovative social media campaigns that resonate with a target audience. Regularly develop compelling copy and social media content to enhance lead generation and brand awareness. Detail-oriented with extensive project management skills that ensure proper prioritization of tasks and projects. Work with various social media management and analytics tools to examine results and make adjustments as necessary.”

This summary directly addresses the key points in the job description but rewrites them so the customization is natural and flows well. It’s personalized for the open role and uses similar terms with a few strategically placed keywords, such as “social media content” and “project management.”  

How Long Should a Resume Summary Be?

As you read the resume summaries above, you probably noticed there are some short single-paragraph resume summary examples and much longer career summaries that are two to three paragraphs plus bullet points. So how long should YOUR professional summary be? If you have relevant work experience, keep your summary to one or two paragraphs. The piece you really want the hiring manager to read is your most recent work experience (and you should make sure you tailored that info to fit the job description). The resume summary is just a “bridge” to get the hiring manager into your experience.

If I were writing my own career summary right now, I’d likely use one single paragraph packed with skills, accomplishments, and exactly why I’m ready to step into the job I’ve applied for and be successful!

Even for a manager resume summary, I recommend a very short length. However, if you’re changing careers, or you’re looking for jobs without any work experience , the summary section needs to stand on its own, and should be longer. That’s why some examples above are a bit longer.

Formatting Your Resume/CV Career Summary

You may have noticed a variety of different formats in the career summary examples above. There isn’t one “right” way to format this section on your resume or CV. However, I recommend either using one or two brief paragraphs, or combining a short sentence or paragraph with bullets. Avoid writing three or four long paragraphs with no special formatting like bullet points. That’s simply too much text for your summary section and will cause recruiters and hiring managers to skip over it in some cases.

Should You Include a Resume Objective?

You do not need to include an objective on your resume, and doing so can make your resume appear outdated. Use a resume summary instead of an objective. Follow the resume summary examples above and focus on discussing your skills, qualifications, and achievements, rather than stating your objective. Employers know that your objective is to obtain the position you’ve applied for, and the resume objective has no place on a modern resume/CV in today’s job market.

Examples of Bad Resume Summaries

Now that we’ve seen a few exemplary resume summaries, let’s look at some that you should avoid at all cost.

1. Typos and Grammatical Errors

“Experienced cashier who knows how to run the register cash. Responsible with the money and can talk with the customer. Knows when to stoc up the invenory and checks it all the time. Can count change and run credit card tranactions. Get the customer happy by good service. I am always cheerful and organized.”

Why this resume summary is bad:

If you read the summary carefully, you’ll notice several spelling errors. The words “stock,” “inventory,” and “transactions” are all spelled wrong. Grammatical errors make the summary choppy and difficult to follow (“Get the customer happy by good service”).  A summary like this probably won’t fly with a company looking for a detail-oriented cashier responsible for managing in-person sales.

2. Lacks Relevant Keywords

“Talented worker with experience managing a team of staff. Creative and responsible with knowledge of organizational processes. Can keep up with the busiest of environments. Stays focused when at work, ensuring prompt task completion. Dependable and willing to collaborate with a team to get things done.”  

In this example, the chef doesn’t use keywords relevant to cooking, restaurants, or kitchens. The summary is very generic and can apply to nearly any job. A manager who receives the application isn’t likely to understand what value the candidate can bring to the restaurant.  To fix the summary, the applicant must rewrite it to include relevant keywords and phrases. 

3. No Numbers to Quantify Achievements

“An experienced and hardworking manager ready to align procedures for maximum revenue and profits. Proven track record of streamlining and strengthening processes, resulting in higher sales and better customer satisfaction. Collaborate well with sales team members, ensuring they have the resources and knowledge to support customer purchases and inquiries. Develop strong rapport with clients and maintain ongoing relationships.”

This isn’t a terrible summary for a sales manager, but it has room for improvement. For one, the first two sentences essentially duplicate each other, mentioning an aptitude for improving processes with the objective of higher sales. The other issue is a lack of quantifying achievements. 

The applicant mentions they have a proven record of increasing sales, but they could strengthen the summary by quantifying their results. For example, they might say, “Proven track record of streamlining and strengthening processes, resulting in a 25% increase in sales over the past year.” The quantifier provides additional credibility. 

4. Not Targeting the Specific Job

“Looking for work in a role that requires great customer service, project management, and communication skills. Able to collaborate with people from diverse and varying backgrounds. Highly organized and reliable worker with a strong work ethic. Responsible and reliable worker you can count on.”

While the candidate lists various skills they have, including customer service and project management, there’s no indication of prior roles held or what position they’re applying for. The summary could apply to numerous positions in a variety of industries. To improve the resume summary, the applicant must specify the job they’re applying for and indicate their prior experience in a similar role, if they have any.

After You Start Getting Interviews, Make Sure to Take Advantage…

If you follow the advice above, you’ll have a great professional resume summary to make your qualifications stand out to employers. But landing the interview is only half the battle… So make sure you go into every interview ready to convince employers that they should hire you, too! If you write a great resume summary example that gets employers excited to interview you, they’re going to ask you questions like, “tell me about yourself” early in the interview to learn more about your background. So make sure you’re prepared with an answer.

I also recommend you review the top 20 interview questions and answers here.

Your resume caught their interest, so naturally, they’re going to follow up with a variety of questions to learn more about your professional background.

The bottom line is: A strong professional resume summary, followed up by other well-written resume sections will get you the interview, but your interview performance is what determines whether you get the job offer!

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

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I would recommend to customise the skills section of your resume, and ensure that it matches the job posting. The higher the number of phrases within the resume matching the job requirements the more are the chances that the recruiter will pick you for the job.

I just wanted to say, “thank you!”. This was very helpful. Instead of jumping from one website to the next there’s so much useful, relevant information right here.

Hi, I have been having trouble creating a resume as My old one is so long, I’ve worked for a government agency for the past 14 years and held multiple positions doing many different duties for each and now I have to relocate to another area where they do not have an agency like mine in my new area within a 3 hour drive, how can I squeeze all my experience and duties on one page and where do I even start, I’m so nervous, it’s been so long since I’ve attempted the job hunt. So I’m wondering, I do not want to cut anything out that may hurt my chances and I can’t afford to have my resume rewritten by a professional. Can you guide me as to where you think would be a good place to start, I’ve been staring at this laptop for weeks trying to decide on a resume template, there are so many. I thank you for your time and any input will help.

Hi, I am a new graduate and do not have any experience in my field which is Nursing. I want to apply for the jobs but I have no idea about what to mention in my resume.

Hi, this article should help with the resume summary, at least: https://careersidekick.com/summary-for-resume-no-experience/

Other than that, you need to put your academic experience. And internships/part-time jobs if you’ve had any.

Dear Biron,, Thanks for sharing the 10 examples of professional summaries in your article, and especially the reasons why they were considered to be good. However, as a HR professional, I would most likely skip over most of them and would not read much past the first or second sentence. The summaries were mostly too wordy and boring, and did not demonstrate ‘oomph’ at first cursory reading. Simply indicating certain skills or behaviors does not give an idea of the level of expertise, and could simply be wishful thinking on the part of the resume writer.

Just goes to show that there are many ways to see what makes a good summary.

I am a chemical engineer and project management professional with 15+years experience. My experience is between process engineering and project management . How can I marry the two in my profile summary?

It’s not about showing everything you’ve done. It’s about showing employers evidence you’ll succeed in their job. You can show a bit of both but focus heavily on what’s most relevant for the jobs you’re applying for right now. 80/20.

This was absolutely helpful and amazing! Thank you very much!

Hello, I am an active job seeker. I hold a law degree from a foreign country and currently in college for an associate degree. My question is, how do I blend both my foreign job experience with that of the United States in my resume. Thank you.

I’d put your work history in chronological order, starting with the most recent up top. That’s what I’d recommend for 95% of people actually. Then it doesn’t matter where you held each job.

And then in your Education section, I’d include your foreign degree and the current degree you’re pursuing in the US, too (for the US degree, you can say “in progress” or “graduating May 2019” for example).

I am 40 years old & B.A degree holder I have experience in many fields.I would like to join any one fields

I am a fresh graduate, who has five years teaching experience and some months customer service representative experience. Pls kindly assist me to put the resume summary together

I’m an active duty service member and finding in a little difficult creating a good transitional summary from 20 year profession in tactical communications to a drug and alcohol counselor. Do you have any recommendations how I should approach this? Any assistance would be helpful. Thanks

Great piece

How to write the CAREER ABSTRACT in resume for ware super visor retail business?

Just wanted to say thank you.Your advise and information was clear and easy to understand , sometimes there is nothing pertaining to what im looking fot in particular, buy you have sermed to cover everything I n a short quick easy to understand method.It will help tremendously.

Thanks! Glad to hear it helped :)

Very informational

What if you have work experience, but the job your going for(teachingeducation) has nothing to do with warehouse work? How should I build my resume?

In the summary, describe yourself and then say, “…looking to transition into ___” (the type of work you want to be doing now).

This is a bit like a resume “Objective”. I normally don’t recommend an Objective section (and I recommend a Summary section instead), however the one time an Objective does make sense is when you’re trying to change industries or make a big change in the type of role you have.

So that’s why my advice here might seem like I’m telling you to combine an Objective with your resume Summary.

Then “tailor” your previous work to be as relevant as possible. Even if you worked in a different industry you can still show things like leadership, accountability, progress/improvement, hard work, achieving goals, strong teamwork skills, etc. You can do all of that in your resume bullets and work history.

Don’t u have Resume Summary of legal secretary/legal assistant?

No, sorry about that. There are hundreds of different professions/job titles, and we aren’t able to include an example for every scenario out there. These resume summary examples are designed to give you a general idea of how to write yours.

The summaries listed are excellent example and have helped me develop a stand out summary for a new position.

Hello, I been trying to land the job of my dreams. I need help with my resume if i want the recruiters in airlines to notice me. I’ve applied before but haven’t had complete success to making it to a face-to Face Interview. It is a career change – yet i feel i am a great candidate bc i have had many customer service and I even attended an academy for that specific position. Can you please tell me what I am doing wrong on my resume ?

what if i never had a job experience?

Great question. If you don’t have any work experience, take one of the formats/examples above and put your accomplishments and qualifications from your academic studies.

Your headline could say: “Motivated Bio-Sciences Graduate With Expertise in ____”.

And then you might talk about accomplishments in school, group projects you worked on or led, etc.

Basically, when you have no work experience, your school/studies BECOMES your recent work. You should talk about that like it’s a job, because that’s the experience you do have.

really amazing article and too useful , thanks

Hi Mr. Clark, I have been out of the work force for about 18+years and I have been a small business owner for the same number of years. However, I want to go back to the work force. But my problem is that, I don’t know how to prepare my resume or resume summary statement. I had a degree in Communication,Arts and Sciences and a postgraduate degree in Public Administration. I’m a bit confused as to how to incorporate all these experiences into my resume. Please can you help?

Hi Dorothy, I can recommend a professional resume writer if you want. But they’re typically not cheap, so it’s something you’d have to be willing to invest in. If not, there’s a lot of free info online about how to “tailor” your resume for specific jobs. I can’t help one-on-one unfortunately, but I’d recommend thinking about which type of jobs you want, and think of what experience you have that is most relevant. that’s what to put on your resume. Your resume isn’t only about you, it’s about them – what do they want/need? (if you want to get a ton of interviews, that’s how to do it :) ).

Can I have a professional resume writer?

I use a similar format when writing my opening statement for my coverletter. How do you recommend differentiating the two? Or is it ok to use largely the same language?

I think it’s okay to use something similar. I might be more brief in the cover letter… it needs to be about them just as much as it’s about you. Whereas the resume is all about you, at least in the summary section. (The later sections should still be tailored to THEIR needs..)

Struggling to write a Summary Statement for a Secretary/Administrative Assistant position. I have 15 years government experience but have been away from the government since 9/1993 and have spent 15 years as a Substitute Teacher after taking off for 10 years to raise my children.

Hiya! I am a mother of three attempting to return to the workforce. I have been a stay at mom for about 13 years, so I have a (large) gap in my employment history; which doesn’t look great. I have a college education and have obtained a few certifications whilst not employed, plus many volunteer hours. I know that I should probably use a functional resume format. Would love some advice on what I should include in my summary statement.

Hi Juniper,

I rarely like functional resumes, but it might be worth trying. I’d “split-test” it (a marketing term). Create two resume styles, send out 50% one way, 50% the other way, and track results for a week.

I’d treat the resume summary statement just like any other resume. Highlight your skills and past wins/accomplishments.

how do i explain long term gaps in employment? leave them out?

Hi Paulette,

Don’t mention them on a resume summary. But do mention the gaps on a cover letter or lower down on the resume. Here’s an article on how to explain gaps in employment:

https://careersidekick.com/explaining-gaps-in-employment/

I am student in civil engineering field. Have 1.5 yrs of work ex. How should i structure my resume. Thanks.

Hello My name is Shataka and I’m a current job seeker trying to land my dream job as a Counselor. I have Master degree in Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. My experience lies in many different fields. I’m currently a Substance Abuse Counselor, with a teaching background and over 5 years of social service experience. I guess my question is how would I sum up all my experience to help me find a job as a Counselor.

Comments are closed.

• Career Blog

40+ Resume Summary Writing Tips & Examples for 2024

A resume summary is an essential component of a job seeker’s resume. It is a brief and concise overview of an individual’s talents, skills, and experience that can entice the recruiter to read the entire resume. It is a crucial aspect of a resume because it is typically the first part that is read and serves as an introduction to the job seeker’s qualifications.

A compelling resume summary will highlight the most relevant and prominent skills and experience to the job posting. It should be concise, informative, and generate interest in the job seeker’s professional background.

What is a Resume Summary?

A resume summary is a brief summary of a job seeker’s qualifications presented at the top of the resume. Typically, this section is between 50-200 words and presents a quick overview of an individual’s relevant work experience, education, and key skills.

Common Structure and Characteristics of an Effective Resume Summary

An effective resume summary has several common structures and characteristics. First, it should be brief and impactful. It is crucial to keep the summary concise, as hiring managers often have to review several resumes in a limited time frame.

Second, the summary should be relevant to the job posting. A job seeker should tailor their summary to the requirements of the position they are applying for, highlighting the relevant skills and experience that match the job posting.

Third, the summary should be well-written and engaging. It should showcase the job seeker’s communication skills, use powerful language, and present their qualifications in a compelling manner.

Finally, an effective resume summary should demonstrate a job seeker’s value to the employer. It should highlight how the job seeker’s skills and experience will benefit the company and demonstrate a track record of success.

By following the above characteristics, a job seeker can create an effective resume summary that will capture the attention of hiring managers, highlight their qualifications, and increase their chances of landing an interview.

Understanding Your Target Job and Employer

If you want to create an effective resume summary that gets noticed by potential employers, you need to understand your target job and employer. This means conducting research and analyzing the job description and the company’s values to identify key competencies and qualifications that match your skills and experience.

A. Researching Your Target Job and Employer

To start, conduct thorough research on the position you are applying for and the company itself. This will help you tailor your resume summary to meet the specific needs and values of the employer. Look at the job posting and company website for information on the position’s duties and requirements, as well as the company’s mission statement and culture.

B. Identifying Key Competencies and Qualifications

The next step is to identify the key competencies and qualifications needed for the job. Look at the job posting and highlight important skills such as communication, organization, leadership, and any industry-specific requirements. Take note of your own relevant experience and qualifications that match these requirements.

C. Analyzing Job Descriptions and Employer Values

Another important aspect of understanding your target job and employer is analyzing the job description and the company’s values. Employers want to hire candidates who share their values and fit in with their culture. Look for clues in the job posting and company website about what the company values, such as innovation, teamwork, or customer service. Use this information to highlight how you embody these values in your resume summary.

D. Tailoring Your Summary to Match Your Target Job and Employers

Once you have identified the key competencies and qualifications and analyzed the job description and employer values, it’s time to tailor your resume summary to show how you are the perfect fit for the job. Use specific examples and achievements from your work history to demonstrate how you have the skills and experience needed for the position. Highlight your key competencies and qualifications and how they align with the company’s values.

By understanding your target job and employer, you can create a resume summary that sets you apart from other candidates and shows the employer that you are the perfect fit for the job. Remember, a resume summary should be concise, specific, and persuasive, so make sure to craft it carefully to showcase your strengths and value to the employer.

Writing an Attention-Grabbing Opening Line

When it comes to crafting your resume summary, there’s one element that can make a huge difference in capturing the attention of hiring managers: the opening line. Your opening line is the first thing they’ll read, so it needs to be compelling, unique, and memorable.

A. Importance of an Attention-Grabbing Opening Line

An attention-grabbing opening line can make or break your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. It’s your chance to make a strong first impression, stand out from the competition, and pique the reader’s interest in your experience and qualifications. Without a captivating opening line, your resume summary will likely go overlooked or easily forgotten amidst a sea of other applications.

B. Examples of Attention-Grabbing Opening Lines

Here are a few examples of attention-grabbing opening lines to inspire your own resume summary:

• “Innovative marketing strategist with a proven track record of increasing revenue by 30% in just six months.”
• “Dedicated project manager with over a decade of experience delivering complex IT solutions on time and under budget.”
• “Award-winning journalist with a passion for uncovering untold stories and bringing them to life in print and digital media.”

C. Tips for Writing an Effective Opening Line

Crafting an effective opening line can be challenging, but there are a few tips you can follow to make it easier:

• Be clear and concise: Your opening line should clearly communicate who you are and what you bring to the table without being too wordy.
• Highlight your unique selling points: Identify what sets you apart from other applicants and make sure to showcase those qualities in your opening line.
• Use active language: Use action verbs to create a sense of energy and momentum in your opening line.
• Tailor it to the job description: Make sure your opening line is relevant to the job you’re applying for and speaks to the specific requirements listed in the job description.
• Test it out: Share your opening line with friends, family, or colleagues to get feedback and ensure it’s compelling and memorable.

By following these tips and thinking creatively about your opening line, you can make a great first impression and set yourself apart from the competition.

Showcasing Key Skills and Achievements

One of the most important parts of your resume summary is showcasing your key skills and achievements. This section can help highlight your unique talents and experience, and demonstrate why you are the best fit for a particular role. Here are some tips for how to effectively highlight your skills and achievements:

A. Identifying Relevant Skills and Achievements

Before you can showcase your skills and achievements, it’s important to identify which ones are most relevant to your target job. Start by reviewing the job description and identifying the key skills and qualifications that are required or preferred for the position. Then, make a list of all the skills and achievements that you possess that match these requirements. This will help you focus on the most important aspects of your experience when crafting your resume summary.

B. How to Quantify Your Achievements

When highlighting your achievements, it’s important to quantify them whenever possible. This helps demonstrate the impact that you’ve had in previous roles and prove your value to potential employers. Use specific numbers, percentages, or other metrics to showcase your accomplishments. For example, instead of saying “Increased sales revenue,” try “Increased sales revenue by 25% in the first quarter of the year.”

C. Examples of Strong Skills and Achievements Statements

Here are a few examples of strong skills and achievements statements that you can use as inspiration when crafting your own:

• “Led a team of 10 sales representatives and exceeded monthly sales targets by an average of 15%”
• “Developed and implemented a new marketing strategy that increased website traffic by 40% and generated $1 million in new business”
• “Reduced customer complaints by 50% through improved customer service training and support”

D. Dos and Don’ts for Highlighting Your Skills and Achievements

When highlighting your skills and achievements, it’s important to follow these dos and don’ts:

• Do focus on the most relevant and impressive achievements
• Do quantify your achievements whenever possible
• Do use action verbs to describe your accomplishments (e.g. “Developed,” “Led,” “Improved”)
• Don’t exaggerate or embellish your accomplishments
• Don’t include irrelevant or outdated achievements
• Don’t use passive language or weak verbs (e.g. “Assisted with,” “Participated in,” “Helped to”)

By following these tips, you can effectively showcase your key skills and achievements in your resume summary and stand out to potential employers.

Addressing Employment Gaps and Career Changes

In today’s job market, it’s not uncommon to encounter employment gaps and career changes on resumes. Whether it’s due to personal circumstances or a changing job market, it’s important to address these gaps and changes in a thoughtful and effective way.

A. Tips for Addressing Employment Gaps

• Be honest: Explain the reason for the employment gap in a truthful and concise manner.
• Focus on skills acquired: Highlight any skills or experiences gained during the gap period, such as volunteering, traveling, or taking courses.
• Connect the dots: Draw connections between the skills learned during the gap period and how they relate to the job you are applying for.
• Keep it brief: Avoid dwelling on the employment gap; insert the explanation between relevant work experience without spending too much time on it.

B. Strategies for Communicating Career Changes

• Highlight transferable skills: Focus on skills learned in previous jobs that can be transferred to the position you’re seeking.
• Rebrand yourself: Instead of focusing on the job title, market yourself based on skills and achievements.
• Emphasize the positive: Focus on the benefits of your career change rather than dwelling on why you left your previous career.
• Show your motivation: Explain why you made the career change and show your passion and commitment to the new field.

C. Examples of Effective Descriptions for Employment Gaps and Career Changes

Employment Gap Example:

• “Took a 2-year break from the workforce to care for an ill family member, during which time I developed my project management and communication skills by organizing appointments, managing medical schedules, and coordinating with healthcare professionals.”

Career Change Example:

• “After 10 years in finance, I transitioned to a career in marketing. My experience in data analysis and client management has helped me excel in developing targeted marketing campaigns and understanding consumer behavior.”

By addressing employment gaps and career changes in a positive and proactive manner, job seekers can demonstrate their resilience, adaptability, and value to potential employers.

Staying Relevant and Concise

When it comes to resume summary writing, it’s crucial to be both relevant and concise. A compelling summary that’s too long or filled with fluff won’t impress employers, and it may even cause them to toss your resume aside altogether.

To ensure your summary hits the mark, here are a few tips to help you stay relevant and concise:

A. The Importance of Conciseness in Resume Summary Writing

One of the most important things to remember when writing a resume summary is to keep it brief. Ideally, it should be no more than a few sentences long. Focus on the highlights of your career and the skills and experiences that make you stand out. Avoid going into too much detail or including irrelevant information.

Remember that recruiters and hiring managers are busy people who don’t have time to read through lengthy summaries. A concise summary gives them the information they need to decide whether to take a closer look at your resume.

B. Avoiding Generic Buzzwords and Clichés

Nothing turns off employers faster than a resume summary that’s filled with generic buzzwords and clichés. Phrases like “dynamic team player” and “results-oriented professional” may seem impressive at first glance, but they’ve been so overused that they no longer have any real meaning.

Instead of relying on tired old clichés, try to use more specific language that highlights your unique skills and achievements. Give concrete examples of how you’ve made a difference in your previous roles, and use words that showcase your personality and work style.

C. Choosing Strong Action Verbs

Another way to make your resume summary stand out is to use strong action verbs. These are words that show you taking initiative and getting things done. Examples include “managed,” “created,” “led,” and “implemented.”

When you use these verbs in your summary, you’re demonstrating that you’re a proactive, results-driven professional who can get things done. This can help you stand out from other candidates who may not have such a strong track record of achievement.

D. Tips for Staying Relevant and Concise

To wrap things up, here are a few additional tips for staying relevant and concise when writing your resume summary:

• Tailor your summary to the specific job you’re applying for.
• Highlight your most impressive skills and experiences, but only if they’re relevant to the position.
• Use numbers and statistics to back up your claims whenever possible.
• Be sure to include any relevant keywords that the employer may be looking for.
• Finally, proofread your summary carefully to ensure that it’s free of errors and typos.

Remember, your resume summary is your chance to make a great first impression with potential employers. By staying relevant and concise, you’ll increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately, the job you want.

Formatting and Layout

One of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of resume writing is formatting and layout. The way your resume is organized and presented can have a huge impact on whether or not you land an interview. Here are some key tips to follow:

A. Choosing the Right Font and Font Size

When it comes to font choice, it’s important to go with something that is easy to read and professional-looking. Stick to standard fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Avoid using overly decorative or cursive fonts, as they can be difficult to read and may come across as unprofessional.

Keep in mind that font size plays a big role in resume readability as well. The recommended font size for body text is 10-12 points, while section headers can be slightly larger at 14-16 points.

B. Strategic Use of Bold and Italics

Bold and italics can be effective tools for emphasizing important information and making your resume more visually appealing. Use these formatting options sparingly, however, as too much emphasis can make your resume look cluttered and difficult to read.

Consider using bold for section headings and company names, and italics for job titles and key accomplishments. This will help draw the reader’s eye to the most important parts of your resume.

C. Incorporating Bullet Points

Bullet points are a great way to break up large blocks of text and make your resume more scannable. Use bullet points to list your job responsibilities and accomplishments in a concise, easy-to-read format.

Keep your bullet points short and sweet, using action verbs to highlight your achievements. This will help you stand out to potential employers and make a strong case for why you’re the right candidate for the job.

D. Tips for Formatting and Layout

In addition to the specific formatting tips listed above, it’s important to keep a few general principles in mind when crafting your resume.

First, make sure your resume is organized in a logical, easy-to-follow format. Your most recent work experience should be listed first, followed by earlier positions. Use clear section headings and subheadings to break up information into easily digestible chunks.

Second, be consistent in your formatting and layout choices. Use the same font and size throughout your resume, and make sure your margins are consistent as well.

Finally, make sure your resume is aesthetically pleasing and easy on the eyes. Avoid using overly bright or bold colors, and make sure there is sufficient white space on the page. Remember, a clean and professional-looking resume is more likely to catch the attention of a hiring manager than one that is cluttered and difficult to read.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a strong and effective resume that is sure to impress potential employers. Happy job hunting!

Writing for Applicant Tracking Systems

A. what are applicant tracking systems.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are computer software applications used by many employers to manage their recruitment process. These systems allow companies to collect, sort, and track resumes and applications electronically. Thus, they simplify and streamline the recruitment process, making it easier for the employer to find the right candidates for the job.

B. Optimizing your Summary for ATS

Your resume summary is crucial when it comes to getting noticed by hiring managers, recruiters and ATS. To optimize your summary for ATS, you need to make sure you use keywords relevant to the job description, include information about work experience and skills, and keep the language straightforward and easy to understand.

Here are some tips for optimizing your summary for ATS:

• Use relevant keywords in your summary to match the job description.
• Keep your summary short and to the point, ideally two to three sentences long.
• Highlight your experience and achievements that are most relevant to the job.
• Use strong action verbs to describe your past accomplishments.
• Avoid abbreviations or jargon that might confuse the ATS.

C. Tips for Writing for Applicant Tracking Systems

In addition to the tips above, there are a few additional things you can keep in mind to help ensure your resume gets noticed by an ATS:

• Use a standard font like Arial or Times New Roman and avoid using graphics, tables, or images in your resume.
• Save your resume in a compatible file format like a .docx, .pdf or .txt file.
• Avoid using complex formatting or templates that might confuse the ATS.
• Proofread your resume carefully to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors.
• Use bullet points to make your resume easy to scan.

Remember, the key to writing for ATS is to provide relevant information using clear and concise language. By optimizing your summary and formatting your resume correctly, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by an ATS and ultimately, landing your dream job.

Examples and Samples

Congratulations! After reading the previous sections, you now have a better understanding of what a resume summary is and how to write an effective one. However, it can be helpful to see examples of strong resume summaries to guide you further in crafting your own.

A. Examples of Strong Resume Summaries

Here are a few effective resume summary examples:

“Dynamic marketing professional with 5+ years of experience in creating and executing successful marketing campaigns for Fortune 500 companies. Skilled in market research, project management, and team leadership.”

“Detail-oriented administrative assistant with 7+ years of experience managing schedules, coordinating travel arrangements, and maintaining accurate records. Proficient in MS Office and Google Suite.”

“Motivated software developer with 3+ years of experience designing and implementing innovative solutions for clients in the healthcare industry. Familiar with Agile development methodologies and proficient in multiple programming languages.”

Note that all of these summaries are specific and include quantifiable achievements or skills. They also demonstrate the applicant’s value to potential employers.

B. Different Sample Summary Statements for Different Industries

It is essential to tailor your resume summary to the industry you are applying for. Here are a few sample summary statements for different industries:

“Marketing professional with a strong track record of increasing brand awareness and driving sales. Expertise in social media strategy, content creation, and email marketing. Skilled in data analysis and measuring the effectiveness of campaigns.”

“Results-driven sales manager with 10+ years of experience exceeding quotas and building strong relationships with clients. Proven success in new business development and account management. Skilled in negotiating and closing deals.”

“Experienced IT specialist with a background in software development and system administration. Proficient in multiple programming languages and familiar with Agile methodologies. Skilled in troubleshooting and problem-solving in high-pressure situations.”

C. Dos and Don’ts for Using Samples and Examples

When using examples and samples to guide you in crafting your resume summary, keep these dos and don’ts in mind:

• Choose industry-specific examples that match your skills and experience.
• Use them as a guide but make sure your summary is unique and tailored to your accomplishments.
• Focus on specific achievements or skills that set you apart.
• Copy and paste examples without modification.
• Use generic, vague language that does not demonstrate your specific value.
• Rely solely on examples without putting in effort to make your summary stand out.

Remember, your resume summary is your first chance to make a strong impression on potential employers. Make sure it is specific, demonstrates your value, and tailored to the industry you are applying for. Happy job hunting!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A. common mistakes in resume summary writing.

A well-written resume summary can be the deciding factor in landing a job interview. Unfortunately, many job seekers make mistakes in their summary that can cost them the position. These common mistakes include:

• Using cliches: Phrases like “results-driven” or “team player” have been overused and don’t offer any unique insights about your skills.
• Focusing on job duties instead of achievements: Simply listing your job responsibilities doesn’t showcase your accomplishments and potential contribution to the company.
• Being too vague: A vague summary doesn’t provide any specific details about your skills or experiences, making it difficult for employers to determine if you’re a good fit for the job.
• Writing in the third person: Resume summaries should always be written in the first person to showcase your personal strengths and qualities.
• Including too much information: A summary should be concise and to the point, highlighting only the most important aspects of your career.

B. Tips for Avoiding Common Mistakes

To avoid making these mistakes, job seekers should keep these tips in mind when writing their resume summary:

• Use specific language to highlight your achievements and skills.
• Focus on how you can contribute to the company, rather than just listing your duties.
• Tailor your summary to the specific job you are applying for.
• Keep it concise and avoid using industry jargon.
• Use the first person and avoid talking about yourself in the third person.

C. Examples and Explanation of Common Mistakes in Resume Summary Writing

Here are a few examples of resume summary mistakes and how to correct them:

Mistake:  Seeking a challenging position where I can utilize my skills and experience to enhance the company’s success.

Explanation:  This statement is too vague and doesn’t provide any specific details about the job seeker’s skills or achievements.

Correction:  Experienced marketing professional with a proven track record of increasing lead generation and driving sales through targeted campaigns. Seeking a position where I can leverage my skills to drive growth for the company.

Mistake:  Responsible for managing a team and ensuring their success.

Explanation:  This statement only outlines job duties and doesn’t highlight any specific achievements.

Correction:  Dynamic leader with a successful track record of building and motivating high-performing teams. Led a team of 10 sales representatives to exceed monthly revenue targets by 25%.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips outlined above, job seekers can craft a compelling resume summary that will help them stand out from the competition and land job interviews.

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30 Resume Summary Examples + How to Write One in 2024

• Understand the Resume Summary
• When to Use a Resume Summary
• How to Write a Summary
• 30 Resume Summaries
• Resume Summary Recap

It’s the backbone of your job hunt, but it can be frustrating to figure out what goes into a good resume .

And one of the murky areas that hopeful applicants wrestle with is whether to include a summary or objective statement in their resume. When every bit of space on your resume is invaluable, how do you know when a summary or objective is essential?

If you’re already a pro, head to our  easy-to-edit resume tool  to build your resume before moving on to making a cover letter , or you can customize the resume below. Otherwise, join us, and we’ll clear away the confusion and give you 30 summary statement examples you can make your own.

Real Estate Agent Resume

What is a Summary on a Resume?

The summary of your resume should give a quick “snapshot” of your best qualifications, which you’ll later emphasize and quantify with your skills and experience. Your summary offers an overview of which qualifications make you the perfect fit for the job:  So, focus on the highlights of your career.

You want your summary to emphasize your  history of accomplishments and excellence , leveraging that information to demonstrate how you’ll benefit the company and enhance the position for which you’re applying. Your summary should be attention-grabbing and immediately show why you’re the ideal hire!

Is a resume summary the same as a career objective?

You may wonder whether a resume summary and a  career objective  serve the same purpose—and whether they’re interchangeable. There’s plenty of overlap between resume objectives and summaries, thus muddling the waters. 

These key differences will help you simplify and clarify a confusing topic:

Summaries are great if:

• You have extensive, quality experience
• You’re staying within your field or branching out to something similar
• You have some impressive metrics to share

Objectives are better if:

• You’re a new graduate
• You’re changing careers or breaking into the field

Wait! Is the summary the same as a summary of qualifications?

The lesser-known summary of qualifications is not quite the same as a resume summary! While your summary should describe your qualifications and relevant history in a couple of concise sentences, a summary of qualifications is more technical and usually presented in a bulleted list. The summary of qualifications lets you work in some ATS-friendly keywords and then dazzle a recruiter with metrics, accomplishments, and skills.

It’s usually recommended to keep your list of qualifications to three to six bullet points, limiting each to one or two lines. But this format eats up space on your resume quickly! So, it’s best to replace your resume’s summary or objective with a summary of qualifications if you have a long, complicated history of experience in your field and need to emphasize the highlights of your background at a glance.

Know When to Use a Resume Summary

A resume summary is  often best suited to applicants with 10+ years of experience, although standalone accomplishments  can  be equally powerful . 

If you’ve achieved an unusual level of expertise or racked up an impressive list of accomplishments during a shorter time, consider including a summary!

Our simple  free resume templates  make it easy for you to add or remove information and manipulate sections for personalization without affecting the overall layout of your resume. If you work with a resume template through a word-processing program, like the creative  Google Docs resume templates  we designed, making edits can throw everything off kilter, often causing you to start from scratch to correct the problem.

Indicators that a summary would fit nicely on your resume:

• You’ve worked long enough (10+ years) that you should condense the highlights of your career
• You have an eye-catching list of accomplishments and quantifiable achievements
• You’ve worked with big-name companies or prestigious projects
• You’ve advanced quickly within your field during an unusually short time

If the list above feels intimidating, circle back to the original question of whether a summary enhances your resume.

Indicators to exclude the summary & let your skills & experience speak for themselves:

• You’re a new graduate who hasn’t had time to build much experience 
• Your previous work experience has been somewhat run-of-the-mill
• Your background and qualifications look somewhat generic or bland once written 
• You haven’t had many opportunities that resulted in quantifiable achievements

If you can relate, your resume will be strongest if you drop the summary entirely. Instead, lead with your skills and emphasize dependability, ambition, and potential in your experience section.

How to Write a Resume Summary

If you’re bracing yourself for the process of honing your summary, don’t worry! It’ll be a breeze if you follow our tried-and-true formula and keep our handy tips in mind as you write.

Follow our resume summary formula

The process is as easy as: X + Y + Z = Attention-snagging summary!

X = Your characteristics and personality traits Y = Years of experience and quantified success/results Z = How these results apply to the specific job role

Consider this resume summary for a programmer:

You can pinpoint each element when you break this summary down:

X = Inquisitive, driven, and eager Y = 8+ years of experience, a client base of 100+ people, and a savings of 725+ manual hours Z = Specific programming skills like Python and jQuery that will enhance performance within the position

Our best resume summary tips

Now, we’ll unpack some tips to help you nail down the perfect summary to jumpstart your resume:

• Summary length:  Limit your summary to two or three sentences.
• Keywords:  Consider job-specific keywords that the ATS scans for as well as keywords that will hook recruiters.
• Quantify your claims:  When you list accomplishments and achievements, back them up with hard facts! Data like improvement percentages, customer satisfaction metrics, and client base numbers will boost your credibility.
• Tailor summaries to specific positions:  You never want your summary to feel generic, so look for specific requirements in the job description that you can respond to with relevant details from your own experience.
• Grammar and mechanics:  Proofread carefully for spelling and punctuation errors, and keep a close eye on grammar. It’s also ideal to avoid informal contractions and opening sentences with “I.” Your summary should immediately spotlight your professional value—so keep sentence structure concise and use “my” when presenting your skills.

Don’t worry if this is a little overwhelming at first glance!  Save your summary for last,  even though it appears first. Once your other sections are fine-tuned, it’ll be easier to pinpoint choice details to fill in the formula and complete your perfect summary. (And who says you have to nail your summary the first time you write it?! Go through as many iterations as you need when you  outline your resume .)

The good, the bad, and the ugly resume summary

So, what do these concepts look like in action? Take a look at this example of an excerpt from a digital marketing manager’s job description:

As a digital marketing marketer, you will plan, oversee, manage, and implement our brand’s digital marketing campaigns. You will:

• Plan each digital marketing campaign and delegate tasks in a team setting
• Oversee and evaluate the quality of digital marketing materials
• Analyze campaigns and identify how to improve performance

What kind of summary works for this job description? We’ll take it from bad to best.

I graduated with a marketing degree last year and did lots of group projects. I know how to structure a market campaign and read analytics.

Why it’s ugly:  There’s zero personality here. The claims are not only weak and vague, but there’s nothing quantifiable to back them—let alone any indication of managerial skills. Even though the summary addresses some details from the job description, they’re too generic. 

My degree in marketing makes me a great fit for this position. I can use my communication and analytical skills to help your team create great ad campaigns. I’m also familiar with Google Analytics and LinkedIn and have worked with several teams.

Why it’s bad:  While this summary addresses skills and teamwork experience more effectively, the tone still lacks the gusto that most managerial roles require. The first sentence takes up space while offering too little information, and the second two are redundant and unenthusiastic.

Ambition, creativity, and a BA in marketing empowered me to gain 6+ years of experience with a digital marketing team and boost website traffic by 67%. My proficiency in Microsoft Excel, SEO, and KPI tracking enable me to plan, create, and analyze advertising campaigns. My well-honed strategies and communication skills will elevate Nestlé USA’s marketing team to new heights.

Why it’s best:  This summary completes the formula! You can see personality, experience, and quantifiable claims coupled with the applicant’s skills that fit the exact job description. Dynamic, powerful verbs such as “boost,” “create,” and “empowered” also suggest this applicant is qualified for an advanced role.

30 Resume Summary Examples to Inspire You + Why They Work

You’ve got the basics down; now you’re ready to take inspiration from these 30 professional resume summary examples across different professions. As you check them out, keep our key formula in mind. Before you know it, you’ll have a starting point for your own incredible summary.

We begin many of these with a quick list of key points in the job description, so you can see how each summary is carefully customized to the role.

1. Accountant resume summary

Accountant job description  key points :

• Adept at creating and managing financial documents
• Maintaining ledger entries and monthly budgets
• Detailed error checking and problem-solving
• Auditing and document collection
• Mentorship and training skills

Accountant resume summary :

Why this resume works

• The applicant’s ambitious yet matter-of-fact personality is evident in a way that reinforces their desire to take an active leadership role in the accounting field.
• The solid metrics of a CPA certification and an improvement percentage also quantify the applicant’s selling points.
• And lastly, the focus is on more advanced skills instead of entry-level basics. 

Need more help? Our  accountant resume guide  and  accountant cover letter examples  have you covered from top to bottom.

2. Attorney resume summary

Attorney job description  key points :

• Adept with communication and navigating client consultations
• Familiarity with litigation and a strong ability to adapt to changing legislation
• Strategic, analytical thinking, and strong ethical problem-solving skills
• Preparing, customizing, and checking legal documents
• Forewarning clients of potential obstacles and helping them understand their options

Attorney resume summary :

• The candidate immediately demonstrates an ambitious personality alongside a quantifiable accomplishment.
• Next, the more in-depth set of abilities highlights a well-rounded approach to legal success—ending on a strong note with specific examples of how they’ll benefit the law firm.

If you need more guidance on your  attorney resume  or  attorney cover letter , we can show you the way regardless of your experience level.

3. Business analyst resume summary

Business analyst job description  key points :

• Analytical and quick, adaptive thinking patterns
• Basic IT abilities in Microsoft Excel, SQL, Google Sheets, and Agile Development
• Superior communication and interpersonal/soft skills
• Meticulous attention to detail with an ability to deliver precise reports/data and advice

Business analyst resume summary :

• The formula is all here—personality with a spotlight on skills that apply directly to the job position—and the applicant dives right into measurable achievements.
• While technical skills are touched upon, broader qualifications and personal traits that mesh with the company take the spotlight.

Take your career documents to the next level with comprehensive guidance on your  business analyst resume  and  business analyst cover letter .

4. Customer service resume summary

Customer service job description  key points :

• Impeccable communication, critical thinking, and conflict resolution skills
• Flexibility, adaptability, and reliability
• Task organization and prioritization
• Personable and an affinity for welcoming customers/patrons
• Basic technical/computer skills while monitoring metrics and applying them to better meet company goals

Customer service resume summary :

• This summary would be ideal for a candidate looking to progress to a more managerial customer service role since it offers quantifiable results alongside a strong demonstration of a go-getter personality.
• The applicant also included their experience alongside relevant skills, finally tying everything in with the specific company’s goals.

If you’re  building your resume  for the first time, glancing through our  customer service resume  guide will steer you in the right direction before you transition to your  customer service cover letter .

5. Data analyst resume summary

Data analyst job description  key points :

• Analytical and strategizing skills
• Strong ability to identify trends and problems quickly
• Organization, planning, and communication
• Collaborative and team-based abilities
• Technical database management and basic understanding of key languages like Python and Oracle

Data analyst resume summary :

• A data analyst’s job is highly technical, so it’s ideal to dive right into metrics and list several hard skills in your summary.
• While you can still find personality traits and evidence of soft skills in a team setting, this summary is more focused on measurable, results-driven improvements that the applicant can provide.

You’re in good hands (this is not a plug for Allstate, by the way) with our  data analyst resume  guide if you need some solid examples. Chances are you’ll need a  data analyst cover letter  to go with your resume; we’ve got that handled, too.

6. Data engineer resume summary

Data engineer job description  key points :

• Technical skills like database and development programming languages
• Strong ability to develop, optimize, and maintain database software
• Attention to detail, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Advanced understanding of data pipelines and infrastructures
• Adaptive ability to support stakeholders and executive teams’ data infrastructure needs

Data engineer resume summary :

• As a data engineer, this applicant emphasizes leadership qualities, showing a desire for advancement with metrics to corroborate previous accomplishments.
• You can also see technical skills presented strategically to demonstrate the applicant’s skills in light of the job description.

Start your  data engineer resume  with the right  resume template  that speaks to you and your dream role. Besides a resume summary, know what else requires good writing? Yeah, your  data engineer cover letter .

7. Data scientist resume summary

Data scientist job description  key points:

• Second-nature understanding of the Scientific Method and algorithms
• Advanced ability to organize unstructured data and information
• Clear communication alongside translating large volumes of data into easily-comprehensible business insights
• Improve data quality and streamline/implement pricing models
• Integrate stakeholder input and collaborate on constant, adaptable business model improvements

Data scientist resume summary :

• This applicant demonstrates a driven personality with a highly analytical mindset and scientific background.
• You also get a realistic idea of how they’ll use their skills to produce quantifiable results—and benefit the company.

Looking for more resources? We can help you with the entirety of your  data scientist resume  and help you understand the nuances of writing a  data scientist cover letter .

8. Graphic designer resume summary

Graphic designer job description  key points :

• Attention to detail and a solid understanding of design theory for both print and digital applications (colors, typography, shapes, composition, etc.)
• Technical expertise with digital illustration/editing programs
• Understanding of marketing strategy, advertising techniques, and social media
• Excellent communication with clients and team members

Graphic designer resume summary :

• The candidate’s bright personality shines here, quite impactful for a creative field when backed by quantifiable examples of success.
• Teamwork abilities and experience with digital marketing also take center stage, demonstrating a balance between creativity and organized planning. 

Choose a  well-designed resume template  for your  graphic designer resume , and find a matching template to boost your confidence when it comes to your  graphic designer cover letter , too.

9. Human resources (HR) resume summary

Human resources (HR) job description  key points :

• A knack for facilitating communication between peers and departments
• Ability to update company policies, benefits, employee records, and payroll
• Proactivity when it comes to helping employees understand company policies
• Performance reviews, conflict resolution, de-escalation, and corrective action
• Assist with managing meetings and fostering employee communication and trust

Human resources (HR) resume summary :

• Soft skills are important in HR, especially when addressing sensitive topics, so this applicant’s focus on the personal side of company policies is wise.
• Even so, they still supply a strong metric for previous success and specify how their traits would fit the job position.

Don’t miss our complete  HR cover letter guide , and we share what works and what doesn’t on the rest of your  human resources (HR) resume .

10. Nursing resume summary

Nursing job description  key points :

• Fast, effective communication and task implementation
• Collect patient data such as medical history, current conditions/medications, and updates
• Critical thinking and decision-making abilities regarding when to treat patients vs. when to consult doctors/supervisors for guidance
• Organizational skills and ability to interpret patients’ information, adhere to treatment plans, adjust treatment plans as needed, and administer medications
• Tactfully and kindly discuss care options with patients and families

Nursing resume summary :

• This candidate’s caring, clear-headed personality shines, and they provide an empirical metric for their experience.
• Additionally, you can easily find specific examples of crucial skills that will help them perform efficiently in any fast-paced nursing position.

The roles are endless when it comes to the medical field, so make sure you’re on the right track with your  nursing resume  as well as when it comes to  writing your nurse cover letter .

11. Operations manager resume summary

Operations manager job description  key points :

• Excellent leadership and administrative capabilities
• Analytical thinking and organizational skills
• Ability to manage communication and efficiency among departments
• Adept at hiring, training, and optimizing schedules for employees
• Oversee/analyze production methods, performance, quality assurance, and related data, relying on Salesforce and Tableau

Operations manager resume summary :

• The applicant’s focused and driven personality is evident in the way they immediately showcase their lengthy experience and various aspects of their managerial prowess!
• You also see a success metric right away alongside technical skills aligned with the job description.

Your  operations manager resume  is sure to shine when you consider our  top resume tips ; then, you’ll be primed to write your  operations manager cover letter .

12. Product manager resume summary

Product manager job description  key points :

• Strong ability to analyze product quality from manufacturing to end-of-life
• Firm understanding of company goals and the ability to align products with those goals
• Superior communication and collaboration among cross-functional teams
• Skillfully interpreting data from Google Analytics and various other sources, leveraging it for improved production/distribution strategies
• Ability to analyze KPIs and identify areas for improvement

Product manager resume summary :

• As with any management-focused job description, the emphasis on strategizing and collaborative analysis here are ideal—and the technical skills balance out the interpersonal abilities well.
• The quantifiable improvement in feedback also strengthens this summary! 

Our  product manager resume  guide will ensure your resume is in tip-top shape from resume summary to  resume format . If you’re resume’s already a success, don’t forget about your  product manager cover letter .

13. Program manager resume summary

Program manager job description  key points :

• Planning, initiating, and implementing plans to achieve company goals and complete project portfolios
• Excellent management, leadership, and communication 
• Proactively motivate a team to carry out program activities
• Budgeting, organizational, and strategy-building skills
• Ability to analyze metrics of program success, such as KPIs and satisfaction rates, to identify areas for improvement

Program manager resume summary :

• Talk about detail! We can see several metrics here coupled with an energetic and goal-oriented personality.
• Additionally, these metrics and traits skillfully imply the exact set of abilities this job position requests.

Sail through the rest of your  program manager resume , and don’t forget to check it against our  AI-powered resume tool  before you draft the perfect  program manager cover letter .

14. Project manager resume summary

Project manager job description  key points :

• Excellent team management skills and a strong ability to facilitate collaboration and team cohesion
• Creativity and adaptability in project planning, budgeting, and implementation
• Ability to bridge the gap between project teams and company executives or clients to provide updates and results
• Organization, time management, and attention to codes and policy compliance
• Skillful preparation and management of briefing materials, progress tracking, and reports/reviews that can be leveraged for future improvements

Project manager resume summary :

• This job role is all about results, so leading with personality traits and metrics that support the candidate’s ability to yield these results is ideal.
• Accentuating what the applicant can offer this particular company is also a great move!

PMs, we see you! Peruse our  project manager resume examples  for support and inspiration, and sail through your  project manager cover letter , too.

15. Recruiter resume summary

Recruiter job description  key points:

• Excellent soft skills, including strategic communication. Ability to foster positive relationships with both applicants and staffing agents while managing client and candidate expectations
• Ability to gather information and quickly assess candidates
• Efficiency under pressure when working with high-priority or time-sensitive hires
• Strong ability to gauge talent/potential during interviews
• Develop/update job descriptions, requirements, proposed pay, and benefit plans

Recruiter resume summary :

• This summary concisely highlights the blend of personality traits and interpersonal skills that this applicant offers.
• The candidate still supplies a quantifiable example of their success and relevance, too.

You know all about the job hunt, but we get that you need help with your  recruiter resume , too. When it comes to  writing a resume  or your  recruiter cover letter , we’ll share all we know.

16. Sales resume summary

Sales job description  key points :

• Effective communication, persuasion, negotiation, and people-reading skills
• Ability to answer/field questions or find information quickly
• Time management and organization skills
• Preparing sales contracts, reports, and presentations
• Following up to ensure customer satisfaction, obtain payments, or promote new plans, services, or products
• Understanding and furthering company programs and specific sales objectives

Sales resume summary :

• You can witness plenty of beneficial personality traits here!
• Plus, the candidate’s experience is evident in the skills they highlight—and they specifically speak to the value they’ll offer the company.

Sell your career documents and snag your dream role with our resources for your  sales resume  and  sales cover letter .

17. Scrum master resume summary 

Scrum Master job description  key points :

• Excellent ability to lead, communicate, and collaborate with a team to meet goals while maintaining Scrum values
• Thorough understanding of Agile frameworks and ability to coach teammates in Agile
• Adaptability in fixing errors and problem-solving with strong recovery skills to keep the focus on sprint goals
• Use metrics and stakeholder/team feedback to ensure optimal product quality
• Organization, coordination, and task prioritization

Scrum Master resume summary :

• We clearly see experience, educational, and technical qualifications here.
• Personality shines through while demonstrating a clear understanding of the job role and, of course, everything ties in with the target company at the end.

Scrum Masters, we know you appreciate a logical and organized approach, so start by exploring our  resume examples  and diving into what works on the  best Scrum Master resumes . We can also teach you how to tackle your  Scrum Master cover letter  with ease.

18. Social media manager resume summary

Social media job description  key points :

• Familiarity with social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, and the ability to maintain responsiveness on all channels
• Quick adaptability to changing social media/market trends and current events
• Adept at monitoring KPIs, SEO performance, and other metrics and assessing the effectiveness and potential improvements
• Ability to collaboratively plan and implement campaigns by creating, posting, and managing original content with the use of Hootsuite

Social media manager resume summary :

• It’s all there—experience, an ambitious, confident personality, credibility-boosting metrics, and highly relevant skills.
• The applicant also provides compelling insight regarding their approach to the company’s success.

As a social media guru, you have an eye for details, which is why you’ll appreciate our free and  creative Word resume templates  as you finish building your  social media manager resume  and writing your  social media manager cover letter .

19. Software engineer resume summary

Software engineer job description  key points :

• Engineering-focused educational background in math or computer science
• Technical experience with tools like C++, Java, Unix, database and cloud storage, etc.
• Strong ability to navigate, explain, and lead the entire software development lifecycle
• Solid understanding of the best software engineering practices with a focus on scalability, quick problem-solving, and information management
• Application infrastructure and design skills that mesh well with speed/optimization

Software engineer resume summary :

• There’s tons of personality here along with strong metrics that demonstrate the applicant’s skills.
• And while there’s a clear mention of technical skills, the strategic thinking of an engineer takes the spotlight, showcasing the ability to expertly handle advanced roles.

If your  software engineer resume  needs a facelift, consider one of our  free resume templates . Remember that your  software engineer cover letter  can make a great first impression.

20. Teacher resume summary

Teacher job description  key points :

• Supervisory and communication skills with the ability to process student feedback and customize lesson plans
• Ability to maintain leadership of the room and engage students with lessons 
• Planning and preparing lessons, assignments, and educational materials
• Updating grades frequently, providing thoughtful feedback, and modifying work for struggling students
• Provide insight, advice, and encouragement regarding students’ future career paths

Teacher resume summary :

• The conversational yet professional tone is ideal for a teacher delineating a diverse and adaptable skillset and backing it up with a quantifiable metric.
• The applicant’s best traits practically demonstrate themselves!

Along with your  teacher resume , your  teacher cover letter  should also be top of mind.

21. Server resume summary

22. Nanny resume summary

23. Data Entry resume summary

24. Marketing resume summary

25. Teacher Assistant resume summary

26. Caregiver resume summary

27. Social Worker resume summary

28. Dental Assistant resume summary

29. Front-End Developer resume summary

30. Web Developer resume summary

Resume Summary Recap & Your Next Steps

You’ve made it to the end, but don’t feel too overwhelmed or get lost in the weeds while striving to pinpoint the best parts of your experience and skillset to include in your summary! Return as often as you need to the summary examples above, and don’t hesitate to draw inspiration from our  resume examples . 

When you start writing your summary, keep our formula in mind:

X + Y + Z = Success!

X = Your characteristics/personality Y = Experience and quantified success/results Z = How your accomplishments apply to the specific role

Carefully read every job description while you search, and tailor your resume summary to each listing. The extra effort and finishing touches will show!

Remember it’s easiest to write your summary once you’ve drafted the rest of your resume , so you can get crackin’ in our  resume builder  for an interactive, intuitive solution. And if you like the resume below, you can start customizing it right away. So, here’s to your success. We’re cheering you on! 

When crafting your document, be sure to include specific information from the job ad but only if you actually have that experience. Because the ATS will automatically search for appropriate keywords and phrases, you can readily find what employers are searching for in other resumes and the ad for the job you’re applying for. Also, look at other ads for similar positions to find industry-specific keyword information to include.

Senior Financial Analyst Resume

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Resume Summary Writing Tips with 80+ Master Examples!

• Resume Format
• February 22, 2024
• Resume Tips

In today’s competitive job market, a compelling resume summary can make all the difference between landing an interview or getting lost in the shuffle. Crafting an effective summary requires more than just listing your experiences—it’s about strategically showcasing your value proposition as a candidate. With recruiters spending mere seconds scanning each resume, your summary needs to grab their attention and leave a lasting impression.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into essential tips for writing a standout resume summary that highlights your key qualifications, accomplishments, and career objectives. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, mastering the art of resume summary writing is essential for advancing your career aspirations.

Resume Summary Tips

Here are some resume tips for summary to help you create a compelling and impactful summary for your resume:

• Keep it Concise: Your resume summary should be brief and to the point. Aim for 2-3 sentences that succinctly summarize your key qualifications and career highlights.
• Highlight Your Achievements: Focus on showcasing your most impressive achievements and contributions in previous roles. Quantify your accomplishments with numbers, percentages, or other metrics whenever possible to demonstrate your impact.
• Tailor it to the Job: Customize your resume summary for each job application by highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the position. Align your summary with the requirements and keywords from the job description to catch the recruiter’s eye.
• Lead with Your Strongest Points: Start your summary with your most impressive qualifications or experiences to grab the reader’s attention right away. Lead with your unique selling points that differentiate you from other candidates.
• Include Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description into your resume summary to optimize it for applicant tracking systems (ATS) and increase your chances of passing the initial screening process.
• Focus on Value: Emphasize the value you can bring to the employer rather than just listing your job duties. Showcase how your skills and experiences align with the company’s needs and how you can contribute to its success.
• Be Professional and Engaging: Maintain a professional tone while also injecting some personality into your summary. Aim to engage the reader and leave them wanting to learn more about you as a candidate.
• Proofread Carefully: Before finalizing your resume summary, proofread it carefully to ensure it is free of spelling or grammatical errors. Ask a friend or mentor to review it as well to get valuable feedback.

By following these resume summary tips, you can create a compelling and impactful summary that effectively highlights your qualifications and sets you apart as a top candidate for the job.

How to Write Resume Summary

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a resume summary:

Step 1: Understand the Purpose

• Recognize that the resume summary serves as a snapshot of your qualifications, experiences, and career objectives.
• Understand that it’s typically located at the top of your resume, just below your contact information .

Step 2: Review the Job Description

• Carefully read the job posting to identify the key requirements, skills, and qualifications sought by the employer.
• Highlight the keywords and phrases that align with your own experiences and strengths.

Step 3: Identify Your Unique Selling Points

• Reflect on your professional background, achievements, and skills.
• Identify your most impressive qualifications and experiences that make you stand out as a candidate.
• Consider your unique strengths, accomplishments, and areas of expertise.

Step 4: Craft a Compelling Opening Statement

• Start your resume summary with a strong opening statement that captures the reader’s attention.
• Use action verbs and dynamic language to convey enthusiasm and confidence.
• Mention your years of experience, relevant skills, and career achievements.

Step 5: Highlight Key Qualifications and Achievements

• List 2-3 of your most relevant qualifications, skills, or achievements.
• Quantify your accomplishments with specific numbers, percentages, or metrics whenever possible.
• Focus on the qualifications and experiences that are most closely aligned with the job requirements.

Step 6: Tailor the Summary to the Job

• Customize your resume summary for each job application.
• Incorporate the keywords and phrases from the job description into your summary.
• Showcase how your skills and experiences directly meet the needs of the employer.

Step 7: Keep it Concise and Relevant

• Aim for a summary that is 2-3 sentences long or around 50-100 words.
• Be selective about the information you include, focusing only on the most relevant qualifications and experiences.
• Avoid including unnecessary details or unrelated information.

Step 8: Proofread and Revise

• Carefully proofread your resume summary for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
• Ensure that your summary is clear, concise, and error-free.
• Consider asking a friend, mentor, or professional colleague to review your summary and provide feedback.

By following these steps, you can create a compelling and effective resume summary that highlights your qualifications, experiences, and career objectives in a concise and impactful manner.

Writing Effective Resume Summaries

Writing an effective resume summary requires succinctly encapsulating your professional background, skills, and career objectives. Begin with a dynamic opening statement that grabs the reader’s attention and highlights your enthusiasm and expertise. Next, focus on showcasing your most relevant qualifications, experiences, and achievements, emphasizing those that align closely with the job requirements.

Use action verbs and quantifiable metrics to demonstrate your impact and success in previous roles. Tailor your summary to each job application by incorporating keywords and phrases from the job description. Keep the summary concise, aiming for 2-3 sentences or around 50-100 words, and avoid including unnecessary details or unrelated information.

Finally, proofread your summary carefully to ensure clarity, coherence, and error-free writing. By following these guidelines, you can create an effective resume summary that immediately captures the reader’s attention and showcases your value as a top candidate for the job.

Best Practices for Resume Summaries

Here are some best practices for crafting effective resume summaries:

• Tailor to the Job: Customize your summary for each job application by highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements.
• Be Concise: Keep your summary brief and to the point, aiming for 2-3 sentences or around 50-100 words. Focus on the most impactful information and avoid unnecessary details.
• Start Strong: Begin with a dynamic opening statement that captures the reader’s attention and highlights your enthusiasm and expertise.
• Highlight Achievements: Showcase your most impressive accomplishments and contributions in previous roles. Use quantifiable metrics whenever possible to demonstrate your impact.
• Use Action Verbs: Use strong action verbs to convey your achievements and responsibilities in a proactive and results-oriented manner.
• Avoid Clichés: Steer clear of clichés and generic phrases that add little value to your summary. Instead, focus on unique and specific qualifications that set you apart.
• Include Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description into your summary to optimize it for applicant tracking systems (ATS) and increase your chances of passing the initial screening process.
• Be Professional: Maintain a professional tone throughout your summary, and avoid using slang or informal language. Present yourself as a confident and capable candidate.
• Proofread Carefully: Before finalizing your summary, proofread it carefully to ensure clarity, coherence, and error-free writing. Ask a friend or mentor to review it as well to get valuable feedback.
• Update Regularly: Regularly review and update your resume summary to reflect your latest experiences, skills, and achievements. Keep it relevant and up to date with your current career goals.

Resume Summary Examples

Here are a few examples of resume summaries across different industries:

Finance Professional: Dynamic and results-driven finance professional with over 8 years of experience in financial analysis and reporting. Proven track record of streamlining processes, reducing costs, and improving profitability. Expertise in financial modeling, budgeting, and forecasting. Strong analytical skills combined with excellent communication and leadership abilities.

Marketing Specialist: Innovative marketing specialist with a passion for developing creative strategies to drive brand awareness and increase market share. Skilled in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation. Proven ability to analyze market trends, identify opportunities, and execute successful campaigns. Strong project management skills with a focus on delivering measurable results.

Software Engineer: Results-oriented software engineer with a solid background in full-stack development and software architecture. Proficient in multiple programming languages, including Java, Python, and JavaScript. Experienced in developing scalable web applications and implementing cutting-edge technologies. Strong problem-solving abilities with a commitment to delivering high-quality software solutions on time and within budget.

Registered Nurse: Compassionate and dedicated registered nurse with 5 years of experience in acute care settings. Skilled in providing patient-centered care, administering medications, and coordinating interdisciplinary teams. Proven ability to assess patient needs, develop care plans, and deliver exceptional nursing care. Strong communication skills and a commitment to upholding ethical standards and patient safety.

Human Resources Manager: Strategic and results-oriented human resources manager with a proven track record of driving organizational growth and employee development. Skilled in talent acquisition, performance management, and employee relations. Experienced in developing HR policies and procedures, managing compensation and benefits programs, and fostering a positive work culture. Strong leadership abilities with a focus on building high-performing teams.

Results-oriented marketing manager with 10+ years of experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns. Proven track record of driving brand awareness and increasing customer engagement through digital and traditional channels.

Seasoned software engineer with expertise in full-stack development and cloud computing. Skilled in Java, Python, and JavaScript, with a strong focus on creating scalable and efficient web applications. Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver projects on time and within budget.

Dedicated registered nurse with 5 years of experience in critical care settings. Proficient in patient assessment, medication administration, and treatment planning. Compassionate and patient-centered approach to nursing, with a commitment to providing high-quality care to patients.

Dynamic sales professional with a passion for building relationships and driving revenue growth. Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and expanding client portfolios. Skilled in consultative selling, negotiation, and closing deals in competitive markets.

Strategic human resources manager with expertise in talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management. Experienced in developing HR policies and procedures to support organizational growth and employee development. Strong leadership and communication skills with a focus on fostering a positive work culture.

Detail-oriented financial analyst with a background in investment banking. Proficient in financial modeling, valuation, and risk analysis. Experienced in conducting market research and providing strategic recommendations to optimize investment portfolios.

Creative graphic designer with a passion for visual storytelling and brand identity development. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite and experienced in creating compelling designs for print and digital media. Strong attention to detail and ability to communicate complex ideas visually.

Customer-focused retail manager with a track record of delivering exceptional service and driving sales growth. Experienced in managing store operations, training staff, and optimizing inventory levels. Proven ability to exceed customer expectations and build a loyal customer base.

Organized administrative assistant with strong multitasking skills and attention to detail. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and experienced in managing calendars, scheduling appointments, and coordinating travel arrangements. Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.

Dynamic project manager with a background in construction management. Skilled in project planning, budgeting, and resource allocation. Experienced in leading cross-functional teams and overseeing large-scale construction projects from conception to completion.

Strategic business development manager with expertise in identifying new opportunities and driving revenue growth. Skilled in market research, competitive analysis, and developing go-to-market strategies. Proven ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.

Experienced educator with a passion for fostering student learning and development. Skilled in curriculum design, lesson planning, and classroom management. Committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Customer service-oriented hospitality manager with a focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences. Experienced in managing hotel operations, overseeing staff, and ensuring quality standards are met. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills with a commitment to guest satisfaction.

Innovative product manager with a background in product development and lifecycle management. Skilled in market analysis, product positioning, and feature prioritization. Experienced in leading cross-functional teams and launching successful products to market.

Analytical data scientist with expertise in statistical analysis and machine learning. Proficient in programming languages such as Python and R, with a focus on data visualization and predictive modeling. Experienced in translating data insights into actionable business recommendations.

Strategic procurement manager with a proven track record of optimizing supply chain processes and reducing costs. Skilled in supplier negotiations, contract management, and risk mitigation. Experienced in implementing procurement best practices and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Dynamic event planner with a passion for creating memorable experiences and exceeding client expectations. Skilled in event coordination, vendor management, and budgeting. Experienced in planning and executing a wide range of events, from corporate conferences to weddings.

Experienced real estate agent with a deep understanding of the local market and industry trends. Proven track record of successfully closing transactions and negotiating favorable deals for clients. Skilled in marketing properties, conducting property tours, and managing client relationships.

Strategic communications professional with expertise in media relations, corporate messaging, and crisis management. Skilled in crafting compelling narratives and engaging content across multiple channels. Experienced in managing public relations campaigns and building positive brand reputation.

Passionate social worker with a commitment to empowering individuals and communities. Experienced in providing counseling, advocacy, and support services to diverse populations. Skilled in case management, crisis intervention, and facilitating group therapy sessions.

Crafting Resume Summary Statements

Crafting a compelling resume summary statement involves highlighting your most relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments in a concise and impactful manner. Here are some examples across various industries:

Sales Representative: Results-driven sales professional with 7 years of experience in B2B sales and account management. Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and building strong client relationships. Skilled in identifying customer needs, negotiating contracts, and closing deals. Excellent communication and presentation abilities with a focus on driving revenue growth and client satisfaction.

Project Manager: Seasoned project manager with extensive experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects from inception to completion. Proficient in project planning, budgeting, and resource allocation. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills with a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. Experienced in Agile and Waterfall methodologies, with a focus on continuous improvement and stakeholder satisfaction.

Graphic Designer: Creative and innovative graphic designer with a passion for visual storytelling and brand identity development. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and experienced in creating compelling designs for print and digital media. Skilled in concept development, layout design, and typography. Strong attention to detail and a keen eye for aesthetics, with a commitment to delivering high-quality designs that meet client objectives.

Customer Service Representative: Customer-focused professional with 5 years of experience in delivering exceptional service and support to clients across diverse industries. Skilled in resolving customer inquiries, handling escalations, and building rapport with clients. Proficient in CRM systems and adept at managing high call volumes while maintaining quality standards. Strong communication and problem-solving abilities with a commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction.

Data Analyst: Analytical and detail-oriented data analyst with expertise in data visualization, statistical analysis, and database management. Proficient in SQL, Python, and Tableau for extracting, transforming, and analyzing data. Experienced in generating actionable insights and recommendations to drive business decisions and improve operational efficiency. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills with a passion for uncovering data-driven solutions.

These examples illustrate how to craft effective resume summary statements that highlight your key qualifications and experiences while showcasing your unique strengths as a candidate.

Resume Profile Writing Tips

• Customize for each job application.
• Start with a strong opening statement.
• Highlight relevant skills and experiences.
• Quantify achievements where possible.
• Use action verbs to demonstrate impact.
• Keep it concise and focused.
• Incorporate keywords from the job description.
• Showcase your unique strengths and qualifications.
• Proofread for clarity and accuracy.
• Update regularly to reflect your latest experiences and accomplishments.

These tips will help you create a compelling and effective resume profile that grabs the recruiter’s attention and highlights your qualifications and achievements.

Resume Summary vs Objective

Resume introduction writing tips.

Here are resume introduction writing tips presented in a list format:

• Start Strong: Begin with a compelling opening statement that grabs the reader’s attention and showcases your enthusiasm and expertise.
• Highlight Key Qualifications: Quickly outline your most relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments that align with the job requirements.
• Quantify Achievements: Use specific numbers, percentages, or metrics to quantify your achievements and demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
• Tailor to the Job: Customize your introduction for each job application by incorporating keywords and phrases from the job description.
• Keep it Concise: Aim for a brief introduction, around 2-3 sentences or 50-100 words, that succinctly summarizes your qualifications and career objectives.
• Showcase Unique Strengths: Highlight your unique strengths and qualifications that differentiate you from other candidates.
• Be Professional: Maintain a professional tone throughout your introduction and avoid using slang or informal language.
• Proofread Carefully: Before finalizing your introduction, proofread it carefully to ensure clarity, coherence, and error-free writing.

By following these tips, you can create a compelling resume introduction that effectively showcases your qualifications and sets you apart as a top candidate for the job.

Resume Summary Format

The resume summary format is a concise section at the top of your resume that provides a snapshot of your qualifications, skills, and career highlights. It typically consists of 2-3 sentences or bullet points and should grab the reader’s attention while showcasing your most relevant experiences and achievements.

The format should be tailored to each job application, focusing on the qualifications and skills that align with the job requirements. It’s important to use clear and concise language, include quantifiable achievements where possible, and maintain a professional tone throughout.

A well-crafted resume summary format can effectively highlight your value as a candidate and encourage further consideration by recruiters.

Resume Summary Length

The ideal resume summary length is typically 2-3 sentences or around 50-100 words. It should be concise yet impactful, providing a brief overview of your qualifications, skills, and career highlights.

Aim to capture the reader’s attention quickly while showcasing your most relevant experiences and achievements. Avoid including unnecessary details or unrelated information, and focus on highlighting the qualifications that are most closely aligned with the job requirements.

By keeping your resume summary length brief and focused, you can effectively convey your value as a candidate and encourage recruiters to further explore your qualifications and experiences.

Resume Summary Template

Here’s a basic template for a resume summary:

[Professional Title] [Dynamic opening statement that grabs attention]

[Summary of Qualifications]

• [Relevant skill or qualification]

[Accomplishments or Achievements]

• [Quantifiable achievement or accomplishment]

[Closing Statement] [Highlight how your qualifications align with the job requirements]

Remember to customize each section of the template to reflect your own qualifications, experiences, and career objectives. Tailor the summary to the specific job you’re applying for, and use clear and concise language to make a strong impression on recruiters.

What is a resume summary?

A resume summary is a brief overview of your professional background, skills, and accomplishments. It typically appears at the top of your resume and summarizes your qualifications in a concise and impactful manner.

Why is a resume summary important?

A resume summary serves as a snapshot of your qualifications and helps recruiters quickly understand your value proposition as a candidate. It highlights your most relevant skills and experiences, making it easier for employers to assess your suitability for the job.

How long should a resume summary be?

Ideally, a resume summary should be 2-3 sentences long or around 50-100 words. It should be brief yet informative, providing enough detail to showcase your key qualifications and accomplishments without overwhelming the reader.

What information should I include in a resume summary?

In a resume summary, include your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that are directly related to the job you’re applying for. Focus on quantifiable accomplishments and highlight your unique selling points as a candidate.

Should I tailor my resume summary for each job application?

Yes, it’s recommended to tailor your resume summary for each job application to highlight the most relevant qualifications and experiences. Review the job description carefully and customize your summary to align with the requirements of the position.

Can I include soft skills in my resume summary?

Yes, you can include soft skills in your resume summary to showcase your interpersonal abilities and strengths. However, prioritize hard skills and technical competencies that are directly relevant to the job, and use soft skills to complement them.

What are some common mistakes to avoid in a resume summary?

Common mistakes to avoid in a resume summary include using generic language, focusing too much on responsibilities rather than accomplishments, and including irrelevant information. Ensure that your summary is tailored, concise, and impactful.

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Resume Summary: How To Write [+ 15 Examples]

Your resume summary, or professional summary, is a key part of your resume. Learn how to write an impressive resume summary with examples & tips.

Your resume summary can make or break your next job opportunity. 

It is the element of your resume that has the potential to excite the recruiter and keep him glued to your resume for more than six seconds. 

That’s the very first and one of the major wins for you towards securing your new job.

To help you with this very crucial step of your job search, we have compiled all the pertinent information and provided specific samples of resume summaries. 

What Is a Resume Summary?

A resume summary is your professional journey in a nutshell. 

Often called a “professional summary” or “resume summary statement,” it contains a brief description of the experiences, skills, expertise, and achievements of your career so far.

It sits at the very beginning of your resume and most probably the first thing a recruiter will read. 

So, undoubtedly, it is one of the most important elements of your resume. 

It is the place to arouse interest and attract the hiring manager like a super magnet.

Check out this sample resume summary for a marketing executive:

If you write an unimaginative resume summary, the recruiter will just skip ahead to the next candidate in line.

We don’t want that to happen! You will learn how to optimize your summary below.

What Is the Difference Between a Summary and an Objective?

Although they sound similar, resume summary and resume objectives are two distinctly different things with different goals in mind.

A resume objective is focused on what you are looking for and what you want from the job. 

It uses more “I” language.

A resume summary, on the contrary, is fully focused on your potential employer with more emphasis on what they will get from you. 

Instead of what you want to do and become, it states what you already are made of.  

As a result, in most of the cases, a resume summary is more effective than the resume objective. 

Hence, the use of resume objectives has declined significantly in recent times.

However, a resume objective can still be useful in case you are a new graduate or you are changing careers. 

When to Use a Resume Summary

Almost 90% of all resumes now use resume summaries. 

It is a great way to showcase your worth and draw the attention of the recruiter. 

It lets you easily explain why you are the right fit for the job based on verifiable experiences and achievements from your past. 

So, you should try to utilize a resume summary as often as you can. 

That means, as long as you have a sufficient number of relevant experiences, expertise, and accomplishments related to the job you are applying for, you should use a resume summary. 

If you include an objective on your resume where a summary should be used, you and your resume may look out-of-date.

There may be situations when your experiences and past career progression may not match with the job post at hand, then you can consider switching back to a resume objective. 

With a resume objective, you will be able to better highlight your transferable skills and motivation for the job.     

If you are a new graduate, a resume objective will be a better fit for you too as it will allow you to show your passion for the job. 

(If you determine that you need a resume objective, take a look at Resume Objective: How to Write, Examples & More .)

How to Write a Resume Summary

Now, let’s get into the real action: how to write the perfect resume summary for you.

Well, if you keep your focus on the right places, it is not that much of a tough task. 

The secret is to pick the most relevant and impressive elements of your career and deliver them with a bit of panache. 

Keep the following tips in mind while writing your resume summary. 

Use Keywords

Using the right keywords related to the job is crucial for two reasons: 

• Keywords are what the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is looking for.
• Keywords easily get noticed by recruiters. 

So, keep strict attention to the use of job-specific keywords for your resume summary. 

Go through the job posting and find out all the required skills, experiences, and related achievements. 

Those are your keywords. 

As long as they describe your abilities, include those in your resume summary. 

(Learn more about How to Use Resume Action Verbs When Applying for Jobs .)

Quantify Your Achievements

While describing your most recent, impressive, and relevant achievements, try to make it quantifiable. 

Using numbers turns your accomplishments into something more tangible and concrete. 

Ask yourself questions like these to quantify your achievements:

• What was the success rate of your marketing strategy?
• What percentage of increased sales did your initiatives achieve?
• How much positive client feedback did you get for your organization? 
• How many successful events did you organize?

Any similar questions are likely to give you the numbers you are looking for. 

(Take a look at How to Turn Job Duties Into Accomplishments for more insight.)

Prove Your Experiences

You do not have much space when it comes to your resume summary. 

Focus only on the most recent, relevant, and proven work experiences that you have. 

It is okay to brag a little, but never okay to say something that you can’t prove later on. 

Faking never ends well. 

Write Your Summary After Completing the Resume 

It is a great idea to write your resume summary after you have completed all the other parts of your resume. 

By doing so you will get a clearer view over your whole career and easily pick the elements to include in the summary. 

It will also ensure that you do not miss any important information that would look great in the resume summary section. 

Keep It Short

As already mentioned, your professional summary should be short and simple. 

It should be three to four sentences only. 

So, keep only the elements that are sure to have the maximum impact. 

Leave out the skills that are common. Only include the ones that are highly valued in the industry. 

Start with your professional title modified by one or two glorifying adjectives and the years of experience you have in the field. Back it up with the most relevant achievements and skills.

Resume Summary Examples

So far, you have read all the theoretical knowledge about resume summaries and how to write one. 

Now, let’s get a practical view of real-life resume summary examples. 

Entry-Level Resume Summary Example

You are applying to an entry-level job, but you believe that you have enough material at hand to pull off a resume summary. 

Focus on your internships, part-time jobs, volunteer or extracurricular work, and any transferable skills from your academic study and coursework.  

Find out the elements most relevant to the job you are applying to. 

Then, create something like this:

Confident and motivated Computer Science graduate with over three successful software projects already helping businesses of the likes of X and Y. Utilized full-stack development skills as a freelancer with a 100% success rate and client satisfaction. Seeking to practically impact the businesses with the power of innovation.

Did you notice how even this entry-level resume summary makes you look like a pro? 

College Student Resume Summary Example

As a current student, oftentimes, you don’t have sufficient professional working experience to include in your resume summary statement. 

But you still have your academic performance, extracurricular and volunteer work, part-time jobs, and relevant academic or professional projects. 

Whatever you have at hand, you have to make the most out of it.  

Your summary may look something like this:

Inspired to create a better world, nearing the completion of the Bachelor of Social Work Degree with a CGPA of 3.84. Conducted over 15 successful offline and online social campaigns focused on creating a safer, cleaner, and prosperous society. Collaborated with X and Y nonprofits to strategize the best approach to help over 100 homeless people in the Z neighborhood.

Management Resume Summary Example

If you are applying for a management position and have a few years of relevant experience under your belt, a resume summary would be the best option for you instead of a resume objective.

Keep the guidelines described above on how to write a resume summary in mind and create something similar to this:

Dedicated and result-oriented project manager/office manager for more than 8 years. Worked at managerial positions in organizations with 500+ employees with a proven track record of success. Skilled in Six Sigma practices for improved organizational and business efficiency. Increased overall productivity by up to 25%.

Be it for a trainee management position or experienced project manager role, you can tailor this example summary for your specific situation. 

Executive Resume Summary Example

For experienced professionals applying to an executive role, a resume summary is indispensable.

Have a look at this executive resume summary:

A seasoned and experienced senior executive with a proven track record of 15 years in the world of pharmaceuticals. Proficient in market penetration for new products as well as increasing revenue from existing product lines. Established markets for over 20 new product lines with over 60% more market reach compared to major competitors.

Now, create your own depending on your industry. 

Career Change Resume Summary Example

Usually for career change situations, using a resume objective works the best for most applicants. 

However, even if you are pursuing a career change, but have a significant amount of related experience, skills, and achievements, you should go for a resume summary statement.  

A customer-centric seasoned copywriter, aiming to expand into the whole world of digital marketing with over 9 years of experience in writing for the digital audience across industries. Written high-converting industry-specific copies that boosted conversion up to 50%. Know the pulse of the people and what makes a campaign massively successful.

Notice how transferrable skills and experiences have been used for the most impact. 

Teaching Resume Summary Example

A resume summary for a teaching job should be focused on your teaching experiences and how well your teaching methods have worked with students.  

A caring and dynamic teaching professional with over 12 years of experience in reputable institutions like X and Y. Proponent of creative and innovative methods of teaching and loved by students and parents alike. Have a track record of improving underperforming students’ grades by 15% on average.

Medical Career Resume Summary Example

A resume summary as a physician, nurse, medical assistant, or any other healthcare professional should give the most importance on your care-giving abilities and previous positive patient reviews. 

A certified medical assistant with over 13 years of experience in quality patient care. Experienced in a team-oriented fast-paced work environment with 99% positive patient reviews. Skilled in personalized service in line with all the hospital regulatory standards and advanced medical technology management.

Customer Service Resume Summary Example

For a resume summary on a resume for a customer service role, give the most prominence to the number of customers you have served daily, customer conversion rates, problem-solving skills, and any contribution to overall customer experience for the companies you have worked for. 

Intuitive customer service manager with an impeccable track record of 15 years of success. Have managed teams of 30+ service representatives with 99% positive customer reviews. Maintained over a 30% conversion rate for sales-oriented customer queries over the last 3 years.

Service Industry Resume Summary Example

As a service industry professional, be it for hotel management or for the food industry, you should try to emphasize your abilities related to hospitality and customer communications. 

Energetic and customer-centric Restaurant Manager with a 5-year track record in service excellence. Ensured 98% customer satisfaction at X restaurant and increased the Yelp ratings from 3.5 to 4.5 for Y Bar. Managed up to 25 staff daily and planned marketing campaigns resulting in 20% increased revenue.

Technical Career Resume Summary Example

Show the success of your previous IT projects. 

How did your technical skills help the organizations you worked for? 

What are your core technical skills related to the job at hand? 

Seasoned Director of IT with 15 years of experience in building and leading highly productive IT departments. Proven track record of success in driving organizational strategy for IT infrastructure development, operations, and business intelligence. Skilled in managing all the aspects of the IT portfolio and finding solutions for increased business efficiency.

Engineer Resume Summary Example

Innovation, efficiency, field-specific and problem-solving skills should be the focus along with the successes of previous projects for an engineering resume. 

Inventive and passionate Mechanical Engineer with over 7 years of experience. Skilled in implementing complex designs and processes with a 100% success rate. Increased production efficiency by 15% at XYZ. Highly regarded for providing the most cost-efficient solutions keeping the manufacturing excellence intact.

Administrative Assistant Resume Summary Example

As an administrative assistant, you should display minute attention to detail and proficiency in day-to-day office tasks, related computer skills, and communications.  

Proficient Administrative Assistant with over 7 years of experience in working closely with senior managers and executives. Have handled everything administratively from data entry to client communications with flawless efficiency. Successfully redesigned administrative workflows for speedy, precise, and cost-efficient execution of assignments.

Accounting and Finance Resume Summary Example

If you are writing an accounting or finance resume summary, showcase your past experiences in the field, in-demand financial and accounting skills, and how profitable you were for the organizations you worked for.

You will need something like this:

Stringent CPA with over 7 years of professional experience in financial planning, auditing, budget analysis, forensic accounting, and cloud and software integration. Saved hundreds of working hours by implementing cloud accounting at ABC Company. Successfully managed the annual budgeting of 1M+ for XYZ.

Sales Executive Resume Summary Example

As a sales executive, give utmost prominence to the numbers in terms of sales you have made and the revenue you have increased for your companies. 

Also, give a bit of focus on strategy development and customer service experiences.

Energetic and customer-focused sales executive with 6 years of experience in the field. Increased the monthly sales at the XYZ Outlet by 5% with an innovative approach to customer handling and cross-selling. Proficient in digital sales funnel management and online customer query handling.

Marketing Executives/Manager Resume Summary Example

Again, it is all about the numbers. 

What was the conversion rate of your marketing campaigns? 

How much revenue has it boosted for your organizations? 

How pervasive were your contributions? 

Intuitive and passionate Marketing Manager with 8 years of professional experience. Managed teams of 10+ professionals including writers, designers, and developers to conduct highly successful campaigns with a conversion rate of 40%. Implemented data-driven marketing practices and customer analytics for both digital and traditional marketing success.

Feel free to use the above samples and tweak the information so it’s relevant to you!

Key Takeaways

In this article, we have found out that: 

• A resume summary is too important to not be taken seriously. 
• A resume summary is an overview of your core strengths, skills, most impressive experiences, and glaring achievements. 
• You should keep your resume summary short and only include the most recent, impressive, and relevant information. 
• Using keywords related to the job you are applying for is crucial to impress both the ATS machines and humans.
• Always try to quantify your achievements. 

Now, go through the sample resume summary statements and the guidelines once again to create a resume summary for yourself that grabs the recruiters’ attention.

For information about writing the rest of your resume, check out How to Make a Resume That Gets Past the Bots .

You can always get assistance from our certified professional resume writers at Find My Profession . We are always here to help you get the dream job that you deserve.  

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Resume Summary Statement Examples and Writing Tips

What is a Resume Summary Statement?

What is an executive resume summary.

• Summary Statement vs. Objective
• Benefits of a Resume Summary

How Long Should a Resume Summary Statement Be?

• What to Include

Resume Example With a Summary Statement

Resume summary statement examples.

What's a summary statement, and when should you include one on your resume? Also known as a summary of qualifications or a  resume profile , a summary statement gives the hiring manager, at a glance, a synopsis of your professional qualifications.

When writing a resume summary statement, be sure to include concrete information on how you have added value to companies and helped to transform departments or organizations. This will show the hiring manager that you would be an asset to the company.

Here's advice on how to write a resume summary statement, what to include, and examples to review.

A resume summary statement is a brief list or a few sentences at the top of your resume (after your  contact information ) that highlights your qualifications for a job. It showcases your most important credentials, and is listed above your employment history. The person reviewing your resume will be able to view your most important attributes at a glance.

A resume summary is sometimes referred to as an executive summary, especially for upper-level positions. An executive summary highlights your most relevant skills, qualifications, and achievements.

An executive resume summary statement is even more critical for advanced positions since prospective employers will be primarily focusing on and comparing the track record of success that candidates have developed in similar roles.

Resume Summary Statement vs. Resume Objective

A resume summary statement is not the same as a resume objective. Both are a few sentences long, and are located at the top of one’s resume. However, a  resume objective  statement tends to focus more on your own interests as a job seeker—it emphasizes what you are looking for in a job or company.

A resume summary statement, on the other hand, communicates what you can bring to the table in the targeted role. It is a way to “sell yourself” to the employer.

Benefits of a Resume Summary Statement

There are a number of benefits to including a summary statement in your resume. The main benefit is that it helps your resume stand out. When hiring managers are reading through dozens, even hundreds, of resumes, they often skim through each and miss information. By beginning with a statement that concisely describes why you are qualified, you are more likely to get a closer look.

However, just writing a resume summary statement does not guarantee that employers will be interested in your resume.

You need to make sure your resume summary statement concisely demonstrates why you are an ideal candidate for the specific job and company.

The summary statement should be approximately two to four lines and speak to your professional background only. Do not address any outstanding circumstances ( employment gaps , change of career, personal experiences, etc.). A cover letter is an expanded version of the statement that will allow your personality to shine through.

What to Include in a Resume Summary Statement

Your summary statement is often the first item read on a resume, so you want to get to the point: why should a company hire you? In about one to four sentences, highlight your most relevant strengths,  skillset , and core competencies that are unique to you as a candidate.

In particular, demonstrate how you would add value to the company. Have you saved money for a company in the past? Did you streamline an administrative process? Include skills and experiences that will impress the employer, using specific percentages, numbers, or dollar amounts to quantify your achievements.

Be sure to tailor your resume summary to the specific job listing.

Look at the listing, and try to incorporate  keywords  from the listing in your resume summary. This will help the employer see how you are a good fit for the job.

In a resume summary statement, avoid skills that are commonplace (for example, avoid mentioning Microsoft Office), or overused words (such as "multitasker" or “team player”). Try to use  action words  to demonstrate your achievements.

To recap, you want to include the following elements in your statement:

• Core strengths and skill sets most relevant to the role
• Past relevant experience with key functions
• Notable accomplishments that you intend to repeat in the next role

This is a resume example with a summary statement. Download the resume template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or read the example below.

Resume Example With a Summary Statement (Text Version)

Matthew Applicant 900 Basil Street Boyton Beach, FL 33426 123-456-7890 matthew.applicant@email.com

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY 

Certified Workforce Development Professional / Career Specialist offering experience providing tailored career counseling, coaching, and job seeker services. Work well with clients from all walks of life to identify values, develop possible career paths, and design effective job search strategies. 90% successful employment placement rate. Proficient with database programs including Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server.

Key Skills Individual Employment Plans Resume Writing Assistance Soft Skills vs. Hard Skills Analysis Labor Market Intelligence Goal Setting / Interest Inventories Professional Networking Strategies Career Portfolios Training Programs.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Workforce Investment Act Career Specialist ( February 2020 - Present) Arbor Education and Training, Boynton Beach, FL

Promoted to provide career management services to the universal population, assessing job readiness and preparing clients for entry / re-entry into the workforce. Duties include intake, interviewing, eligibility verification, referrals to supportive services and employer services, career coaching, and job search and orientation / classroom instruction. Serve as client liaison with instructors, businesses, and other client resources.

• Achieved and consistently maintained successful employment placement rate of 90% .
• Demonstrated strong understanding of labor market, vocational systems, One-Stop services, and One-Stop referral system.

Eligibility Career Specialist ( November 2018 - January 2020) Arbor Education and Training, Boynton Beach, FL

Conducted intake interviews and administered screening forms to ascertain client eligibility for public assistance services. Provided initial and follow-up support to clients, scheduled eligibility review dates, and resolved eligibility issues. Meticulously maintained documentation in database and hard copy case files. Provided referrals to community-based partners and agencies.

• Hand-selected by senior management to serve as Project Support Associate Specialist / Team Leader tasked with providing customized training opportunities for students.

B.A., Business Administration 2018 Fort Lauderdale College, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Florida Certified Workforce Professional Certified Professional – Job Seeker Services 2019 Dynamic Works Institute, Rockledge, Florida

Citizen Contact Skills Institute of Government, Palm Beach Community College, Lake Worth, Florida

ASSOCIATIONS Dynamic Works Institute – DWI National Association of Workforce Development Professionals NAWDP South Eastern Employment and Training Association - SETA

CEO Hands-on executive officer known for strategic and focused approach, with extensive accolades for limiting risk, creating lean teams, and establishing creative strategies for optimizing internal operations, financial returns, external customer service, and output.

ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONAL  Multi-faceted, efficient, and reliable administrative professional with 10+ years of experience supporting executives, sales personnel, and managers to improve internal operations for small businesses.

Proficient in CRM applications and design programs. Diversified skill set covering administrative support, client relations, writing, human resources and recruiting, account management, and project management. Excellent interpersonal, phone, and digital communication skills.

PARALEGAL Self-driven, detail-oriented professional leveraging advanced analytical and research talents to excel within an intellectually demanding Paralegal role with an established law firm.

Legal Administration : Utilize Paralegal training and proven research and writing skills to ensure the timely drafting and submission of legal documents. Unparalleled grammatical and editing skills.

Communications / Client Relations : 10 years' experience working directly with clients from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds to define individual needs, assemble personal histories / career backgrounds, convey project statuses, and formulate strategic presentations. Easily instill trust and confidence in clients stressed by challenging work environments and life events; handle private client data with 100% confidentiality and integrity.

Information Management : Swiftly master and apply business and online technologies and proprietary databases / content management systems. Technical proficiencies include MyCase Legal Practice Management Software, Best Case Bankruptcy Software, and Clio.

Key Strengths : Finely-tuned analytical skills with a dedication to expanding subject knowledge and workplace competencies through continuing research and training; willingly assume extra responsibility to ensure optimal and timely project execution. Type 80 wpm with perfect accuracy.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR 15 years of successful sales management experience within the consumer products industry. Lead by example in motivating sales teams to unprecedented YOY gains.

• Increased sales in the northeast region by 15% through creative vendor partnerships and instituting sales incentives.
• Hired, trained, and inspired award-winning sales team, generating profits at 10% above the company average.
• Conducted customer satisfaction surveys and recommended product enhancements which were then adopted by senior management.

PROJECT MANAGER Seasoned project manager with 5+ years of print project management experience and knowledge of web production obtained from positions in educational publishing and consumer packaging. Creative problem solver who has consistently completed projects on time and within budget. Employed a customer-focused approach which increased repeat business by 15% over the prior cycle. Reduced employee turnover by 35% and retained all top-performing staff members.

This list of professionally written resume samples includes templates you can download to create your own resume.

How to Make Your Summary Statement Stand Out

SHOWCASE YOUR STRENGTHS: Use your resume summary statement to highlight the strengths that set you apart from your competition, demonstrating how you would bring value to an employer’s organization by listing specific contributions.

PROVIDE QUANTIFIABLE ACHIEVEMENTS: Increase the persuasive force of your resume summary statement by using percentages, impressive sales figures, or numbers to quantify specific professional achievements.

USE A RESUME SUMMARY STATEMENT INSTEAD OF AN OBJECTIVE: Resume summary statements are more effective than objective statements because they focus on an employer’s needs rather than on what you, as a job candidate, want for yourself. 

CareerOneStop. " Headline and Summary ."

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Expert tips for writing an impressive resume summary

August 8, 2023

Source: Cytonn Photography/Pexels

Optimising your resume plays a key role in the interview process

Your resume is not just a document; it's a key that unlocks doors to exciting career opportunities. It represents your professional introduction to potential employers, making mastering its content, especially the resume summary, crucial for a memorable impact. 

Your goal? 

To make your resume not merely noticeable but unforgettable, by highlighting your skills, achievements, and career goals right from the start. This strategy ensures you make a powerful impression on future employers, potentially before you've had the chance to meet them face-to-face.

In the hiring journey, hiring managers sift through a sea of resumes searching for the ideal candidate. Amidst this deluge, making your resume seen and remembered is essential. 

A standout resume grabs attention, making a lasting impression that could be the difference between landing your dream role and being overlooked.

Incorporating a resume summary is a strategic move towards this goal. It acts as a spotlight, drawing attention to your unique qualifications and setting the stage for your application to shine brighter than the rest.. 

What is a resume summary?

• What is the difference between a resume summary and a cover letter?
• How to write a good resume summary?
• Highlight job-specific keywords
• Quantify your achievements
• Emphasise transferable skills
• Mention both hard and soft skills
• Keep it short
• Find your dream job with Airswift 

A resume summary (also known as a resume objective, professional summary, and career snapshot)  is like a captivating teaser at the top of your resume. It's a short and focused introduction that immediately captures the attention of potential employers and is used to highlight achievements, relevant experience, qualifications, and career goals. This small but impactful section serves as your value proposition, demonstrating why you're perfect for the job.

If your resume feels lengthy due to your extensive experience, don't worry. A well-crafted resume summary helps streamline the complexity, piquing the recruiter's interest to explore the rest of your resume.

Read on for expert tips on creating an attention-grabbing resume summary that will excite employers to learn more about your career history.

Resume summary vs. cover letter: What is the difference?

A resume summary is a concise overview of your qualifications while a cover letter is a separate document. It provides a more personalised and detailed introduction to your application and allows you to demonstrate your enthusiasm and fit for the role and company.

The resume summary and cover letter are important components in a job application, and together they present a comprehensive overview of your candidacy to potential employers.

How to write a good resume summary

Step 1: highlight job-specific keywords.

Boost your resume's impact by incorporating relevant skills directly linked to the job requirements. Tailoring your summary to match the employer's needs will make it more compelling.

Relevant keywords are vital when it comes to getting your CV noticed by potential employers and including them in your summary can increase your chances of getting an interview. Review the job description for the role you're applying for to identify

When a hiring manager has a pile of resumes to read through, they will scan each one to find keywords relevant to the job title and requirements.

Some companies may even use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to collect, scan, sort, and rank candidates who have applied for job openings.

This means that your resume content needs to include these phrases so that the hiring manager can see, at a glance, that you're the right candidate for the job.

                                                      Source: Gohire

Keywords are words or phrases that relate to certain requirements in the job description. They could be:

• Work experience
• Qualities and values
• Qualifications and certifications
• Previous experience in related roles
• Software and technology experience

Ensure your resume profile includes keywords relevant to the job you are applying for. If you have professional experience in a particular trade or technology that is not covered, it can reduce the chance of securing that all-important job interview.

Pro-tip : Do not overstuff your resume with keywords to try and game an ATS. This will be easily identified by human resources at the review stage and weaken your job application

Step 2: Quantify your achievements

Take it a step further by quantifying each achievement associated with those keywords. Numbers and data add substance, reinforcing your accomplishments. For example, if you're applying for an engineering role, rather than saying ‘I created plans and visualisations that led to the company winning a building project contract', make it more specific:

‘I created a range of plans and visualisations that led to the company winning a $4m building project contract’.

Placing focus on the numbers identifies that you are outcome-oriented and commercially minded. Recruiters and hiring managers also notice the numbers and are likely to focus their attention on digits when they see them, as they tend to relate to results.

Step 3: Emphasise transferable skills

                                                     Source: CV Genius

Also emphasise your transferable skills to showcase your adaptability and suitability for the position, even if you are transitioning to a new industry or role.

By highlighting these versatile abilities, you demonstrate your capacity to excel in diverse environments and contribute to the team.

Step 4: Mention both hard and soft skills

The above example clearly highlights a specific job role and how their technical, industry, and managerial experience relate to it. The candidate also highlights their technical skills by quantifying them in relation to previous projects.

Step 5: Keep it short

Your resume summary statement should be a short roundup of your skills and experience. Keep it concise and to the point. Aim for a maximum of five sentences or bullet points. Remember, the purpose of a resume summary is brevity and impact.

It should be short and snappy so that the hiring manager can get an accurate snapshot of your career at a glance.

Use the active voice instead of the passive voice to place emphasis on the subject (you) performing the action. This results in a more direct statement, making your resume summary easier to read. 

Pro-tip: Utilise action verbs to drive impact. Action verbs help to convey a sense of proactivity and drive, making your accomplishments stand out even more.

For example, let's revisit the engineering role:

Original: 'I created a range of plans and visualisations that led to the company winning a $4m building project contract'.

Enhanced with action verbs:

'I spearheaded the creation of a diverse array of plans and visualisations that led the company to secure a lucrative $4 million building project contract.'

By incorporating action verbs like 'spearheaded,' you emphasise your leadership and initiative, adding depth and excitement to your accomplishments.

Remember to choose strong action verbs that align with your achievements, such as 'led,'  'initiated,' 'accelerated,' 'optimised,' 'streamlined,' and 'innovated,' among others.

Incorporating action verbs in your resume not only showcases your drive and initiative but also reinforces your ability to take charge and deliver results. 

For more tips on finding a job, check out our jobseekers' guide.

Resume optimised? Find your dream job with Airswift

Ready to begin your job search?

Let Airswift help!

With our extensive network and expertise in the industry, we can connect you with exciting job opportunities that align with your skills and career goals.

Whether you're looking for a permanent position or a short-term contract, our job board is filled with current vacancies from top companies in various industries.

This post was written by: Larissa Santos, Talent Acquisition Partner

Looking for your next role?

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Highlighting Writing Skills on Your Resume

11 min read · Updated on April 22, 2024

Do you know how to prove your writing skills in a resume?

In today's competitive labor market, it can sometimes be difficult to differentiate yourself from other job candidates. To successfully compete, you need to make sure that your resume delivers a powerfully compelling message that makes a positive first impression on hiring managers. One way to enhance your resume narrative is to include your relevant writing skills.

In this post, we will explain the following: 

Why writing skills are important in so many different industries

We'll examine the different types of writing abilities that employers may be looking for

We will also help you learn how to match your skills to your desired job role

We'll show you how to use achievements to highlight writing skills in your resume

We'll provide some examples showing you how to include writing skills in a resume and offer some tips you can use to enhance your writing ability

What are writing skills, and why are they important?

Many job seekers assume that they only need to include writing skills in a resume if they're seeking a job that involves a lot of writing. Obviously, the ability to communicate through the written word is an essential skill for people who create marketing presentations, reports, legal briefs, and similar documents. At the same time, though, those same skills are invaluable assets in many other fields as well.

That's because writing skills enable you to communicate ideas in a convincing way. People who possess these skills are often proficient in a wide array of communication styles, including everything from persuasive writing to the use of descriptive, technical, or creative writing. Effective writers also tend to excel in the use of good writing structure, grammar, punctuation, and messaging tone.

Employers who see writing skills on a resume will recognize you as someone whose communication skills can provide real value to any team. That's true whether you're seeking a job as a copywriter or pursuing a role in marketing, accounting, or management. 

The bottom line is clear: even if you're not seeking a job that regularly requires great writing skills, highlighting them in your resume can help set you apart from rival job seekers.

Types of writing skills for a resume

At this point, you might be wondering just how detailed you should be when describing your writing skills in your resume. The reality is that there are a host of distinct writing skills that can benefit you in various job roles. Let's take a moment and review some of the most common writing skills that employers might want to see:

Fundamental writing skills like grammar, punctuation, etc.

Business writing

Creative writing

Content writing

Technical writing

Email composition

Report writing

Grant writing

Collaborative writing

Media content creation

Social media writing

Presentation writing

Brand management

How to identify the right writing skills for the job

Before you just start listing different writing skills on your resume, it's important to ensure that you're aligning those skills with the employer's needs. The easiest way to do that is to use your research skills to examine the job posting and any role description you can find. 

Which specific writing skills are listed as required qualifications? 

What terms are used to describe those abilities? 

Create a list of all those skill requirements and focus on including them in your resume's skill section.

It can also be helpful to search the Internet for similar job resumes to see which skills are typically listed as core competencies. That can provide useful insight into what employers want to see from candidates in your field.

It's also vital to make sure you're using the same terms the employer used in their job posting since those terms may be keywords needed to satisfy applicant tracking systems, or ATS. 

You'll want to include those keywords throughout your resume to ensure the ATS software finds them during the automated screening process. That can improve your resume's chances of being seen by a hiring manager.

Use achievements to demonstrate your writing skills on a resume

As you create your list of writing skills, always focus on skills that you can demonstrate by referencing specific experiences and accomplishments. Employers understand that anyone can claim to possess certain skills. However, only truly skilled individuals will be able to back up those claims with real-life achievements. By citing those skills in the summary and work experience sections of your resume, you can more effectively demonstrate how your writing skills create real value for employers.

The following tips can help you create powerful achievement statements that demonstrate your writing skills in your resume.

Select writing skills that have achieved real results

Make sure that you include achievements that show how the writing skills in your resume were used to produce real results for employers. Your focus should be on using achievements to prove your skills. For example, if you've used those abilities to create client presentations that helped close deals, create an accomplishment statement that highlights that achievement.

Quantify the value your skills have provided

It is also vital that you quantify your achievements by including real numbers that reflect the value your skills can bring to any organization. Those numbers can demonstrate the amount of revenue that your writing skills helped to generate, increases in online engagement, time savings, cost reductions, or any other measurable achievement that contributed to your employers' profitability, productivity, and operational efficiency.

Create achievement statements

If you really want to make sure that employers understand the value of your writing skills, you can highlight those abilities throughout your resume. Obviously, you'll want to include some of the most prominent writing skills within your core competencies section, and in the bullet point achievements that you include in your professional experience section. For maximum impact, you can also include an achievement statement in your summary that emphasizes those skills.

Below, we'll show you how to highlight your writing skills in each of those key sections.Writing skills in your core competencies section

As you might imagine, your core competencies, or skills section, can be a great place to highlight these writing abilities. You can include some of your core writing skills in this section, along with other key technical abilities and relevant soft skills. Remember to use bullet points for your list and use two or three columns to format the section. 

Some of the key soft skills that complement writing expertise include:

Communication

Search engine optimization

Adaptability

Research techniques

Time management

Social media management

The ability to connect with audiences

Try to include a mix of these hard and soft skills. That will help employers understand that you not only have the technical abilities to perform the job but also possess the interpersonal skills you'll need to work effectively with others.

Related post : Soft Skills Explained - and the Top 7 for Your Resume

Writing skills in your resume summary

Your resume summary is another fantastic place to highlight writing skills in your resume. Obviously, it's one of the first things many employers read, and serves as your introduction to the reader. If writing skills are an important part of your resume narrative, you need to include some mention of them in this vital summary paragraph. 

The best way to do that is to add an achievement statement that demonstrates those talents. For example:

Dynamic Marketing Manager with 9 years of experience in strategic campaign development, team building, and project implementation. Skilled content creator with proficiency in online branding, search engine optimization strategies, and increased website traffic and sales engagement. Created multi-tiered email and social media content that reached 20,000 new customers monthly, increasing customer engagement by 22% and leading to a 17% boost in sales.

In that sample summary statement, the last sentence highlights the candidate's writing skills, providing hard numbers that quantify how their content provided real benefits to the employer. If you can create solid achievement statements that demonstrate this type of value, your accomplishments will help to convince employers that you have the skills you claim to possess.

Related post : Resume Profile Explained (with Examples)

Writing skills in your work experience section

It will come as no surprise that the best place to highlight and prove writing skills on your resume is in your work experience section. Here, you will want to use bullet-point achievement statements that quantify your results. For each job title you've included in this section, add between four and six of these bullet-point accomplishments using real numbers that demonstrate your value proposition.

Related post : 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

How to list writing skills on a resume: examples

Below are some examples of the types of achievements you can include in these bullet point statements.

• Wrote ABC Corp. Sales Training Manual, revising onboarding and training techniques to reduce onboarding time by 17%; improved new salesperson sales results by 22% in their first six months on the job.
• Created presentation content for Alpha Bank proposed merger, helping overcome M&A negotiation barriers and facilitating $100 million acquisition.
• Crafted more than 500 blog posts, website landing pages, and email campaigns in two years, credited with 130% increase in customer online traffic and 12% increase in sales revenue.

You get the point. The key is to focus on your writing contributions, describing the challenge you faced, what you did to overcome that obstacle, and defining the results. 

If you find yourself struggling to condense those narratives into brief achievement statements, check out a related post: How to Create an Effective STAR Method Resume (With Examples) .

Tips to improve your writing skills

You may find it interesting to know that even professional writers actively work to further develop their writing skills. The reality is that everyone can benefit from continuing to develop their written communication skills, and that includes those who only use these skills on an occasional basis. 

So, how can you develop your writing skills to ensure that you have the abilities needed to make a great impression on employers? Below are some tips to guide you in that question.

1.     Return to the basics

Spend some time reacquainting yourself with writing fundamentals like grammar, spelling, and punctuation. You can find free resources online or take a class at a local community college if you need additional help.

2.     Read more

Believe it or not, regular reading is one of the biggest secrets to effective writing. Immerse yourself in the written word and pay attention to how other writers communicate to their audiences.

3.     Learn to use outlines

Another secret to effective writing is to learn how to create outlines. Before you begin to write any complex document, always start with an outline that provides a clear structure for your narrative.

4.     Practice writing

This cannot be emphasized enough: if you want to be a better writer, you have no choice but to write. Write something every day to ensure that your skills are constantly being used. Practice won't make you perfect, but it will make you better.

5.     Get used to creating drafts

Never assume that the first words you write will be your finished product. Instead, take your ideas and get them out of your head and into your document to create a first draft. Once that's done, you can go back and revise that content as much as needed to create the right message.

6.     Always do your homework

Don't underestimate the power of research. By doing your homework before you start writing, you can ensure that you write with conviction and authority. Readers are drawn to authentic content.

7.     Don't be afraid to delete unnecessary content

Never be afraid to delete words, sentences, or entire paragraphs that contribute little to your narrative. The best writers are always willing to abandon content that isn't achieving their goals.

Enhance your job search by including writing skills in your resume

When you want to highlight your writing skills on a resume, it's not enough to just say that you possess those abilities. Instead, you need to demonstrate those skills by providing real examples of measurable achievements. If you can do that, you'll have an easier time proving those writing skills to employers – which can help differentiate you from rival job seekers and improve your odds of landing an interview and job offer!

Want to make sure that the writing skills in your resume effectively convey your writing talent? Get a free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended reading:

Seven Key Resume Sections and How to Organize Them

11 Key Things to Put on Your Resume

17 Resume Tips to Get Seen and Hired Faster

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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How do I update my resume to help land that job? Ask HR

Johnny C. Taylor Jr. tackles your human resources questions as part of a series for USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world's largest HR professional society and author of "Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”

Have a question? Submit it here .

Question: Since leaving a job I have had for almost a decade, I have primarily conducted my job search online. I have used the same resume design since I started working 12 years ago. Should I update my resume design to be more effective? What do you recommend for building a modern resume? – Sandra

Answer: Updating your resume design can indeed be a wise move, especially if you've been using the same format for a long time. A fresh, modern design can help your resume stand out and leave a positive impression on recruiters and hiring managers. Here’s what I recommend for building a modern resume:

◾ Clean, professional layout: Opt for a layout that’s visually appealing and easy to read. Avoid cluttered designs and overly decorative elements that may distract from your content.

◾ Font selection: Stick to standard, easy-to-read fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. These fonts are widely accepted and compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), ensuring your résumé is easily scannable by both humans and software.

◾ Incorporate keywords: Tailor your resume to each job application by incorporating industry-specific keywords and phrases relevant to the position. Many companies use ATS to screen résumés, so this will increase the likelihood of your resume being noticed.

◾ Organized sections: Structure your resume into clear sections, including Contact Information, Summary or Objective, Work Experience, Skills, Education and any additional relevant sections such as Certifications or Volunteer Work. This organization makes it easy for recruiters to quickly find the information they need.

◾ Summary/objective statement: Start your résumé with a summary that highlights your key qualifications and career goals. Keep it concise, focusing on what sets you apart and what you aim to achieve in your career.

◾ Accomplishment-oriented experience: When listing your work experience, focus on highlighting your accomplishments, rather than just listing job duties. Use quantifiable achievements whenever possible, to demonstrate your impact, such as increasing sales by a certain percentage or leading successful projects.

◾ Skills section: Dedicate a section to showcasing your key skills and competencies, including both technical skills and soft skills relevant to the job. This section provides recruiters with a quick overview of your capabilities.

◾ Proofreading: Before submitting your resume, thoroughly proofread it to ensure there are no grammatical errors, typos, or formatting issues. Consider having someone else review your resume for feedback and additional insights.

By updating your resuméewith a modern design and incorporating these key elements, you can increase your chances of making a strong impression in today’s competitive job market. Good luck with your job search!

Ghosting a job Is it bad to ghost low priority potential employers? Ask HR

I've been denied PTO requests on multiple occasions, which is becoming increasingly frustrating. Most of them are denied on the grounds of staffing needs. Do I have any recourse in fighting these denials? What can I do to ensure PTO approvals? – Chanette

You may indeed have some recourse in addressing these denied paid time off requests. Start by reviewing your company's PTO policy and procedures. Many employers have specific guidelines regarding PTO requests, including deadlines for submission and limits on the number of employees who can be on leave simultaneously, to ensure adequate staffing levels.

First, check if your PTO requests were made in accordance with company policy. If they were not, ensure that you adhere to the established procedures for future requests, to increase the likelihood of approval.

However, if you followed company policy and your requests were still denied, consider discussing the matter with your manager or the human resources team. Seek clarification on the reasons for the denials and inquire about potential strategies to improve the approval rate for your requests.

It's also essential to consider whether your state mandates sick leave, and if your company uses PTO to fulfill those requirements. If so, your employer may be obligated to approve leave requests that align with qualifying reasons for sick leave under the law. If you’re uncertain about your state’s sick leave requirements, consult your HR team for clarification.

Ultimately, unless there is a contractual agreement or policy stating otherwise, employers typically have discretion in managing PTO usage. However, by following company procedures and addressing your concerns with management or HR, you may increase the likelihood of having your PTO requests approved more frequently.

Salaried, nonexempt What does that mean? Ask HR

10 Best Resume Builders to Create A Great Resume – 2024 Guide

A re you exhausted from investing endless hours into creating an impeccable CV? This article introduces the top resume builders that will revolutionize your job application approach. Bid farewell to monotonous formatting and greet a remarkable resume that distinguishes itself from the rivalry. Prepare yourself to secure your dream job with self-assurance effortlessly!

>> Unlock Your Career Potential With Super Star Resume

10 Best Resume Writing Services

• Super Star Resume - Best overall
• ZipJob - Best for guarantees
• Resumeble - Best with custom bundles
• Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best for range of career service
• ResumeSpice - Best for job seekers of any level
• TopResume - Best customer service
• Resume Writing Services - Best for affordability
• Craft Resumes - Best for quick turnaround
• Resume Companion - Best value resume writing service
• Resume.com - Best free service

When creating this compilation, we considered different elements such as affordability, ease of use, accessibility, the privacy policies of the companies involved, and more. The highest-rated services offer advice, templates, and tools and allow you to consult with experts who can help you craft an impressive resume highlighting your strengths to potential employers.

Our collection comprises free services and those that make use of professional writers’ skills. Some options require a subscription or one-time payment.

>> Secure Your Dream Job With Super Star Resume

Super Star Resume - Best Resume Builder Overall

Star Rating: 4.9/5

Super Star Resume is an innovative resume builder that completely transforms creating professional resumes. By offering a user-friendly interface and a range of powerful features, Super Star Resume enables individuals to produce exceptional resumes that effectively showcase their abilities, accomplishments, and work history.

• Skilled and seasoned writers
• Customized strategy aligned with unique career objectives
• Timely delivery of resumes
• More significant expense compared to certain other resume writing services
• Restricted selection of additional services
• Availability may be restricted depending on demand and geographic location
• Intuitive resume builder: An intuitive interface that simplifies the resume creation process, offering modern templates for a professional look.
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• Real-time previews and editing: Real-time previewing and editing capabilities ensure a visually appealing and error-free final resume.
• Integration with professional networking platforms: Integration with LinkedIn allows users to maintain consistency between their online presence and resume.
• Tailored resumes for different job applications: The duplication feature facilitates the creation of multiple resume versions, each customized for specific job applications or industries.
• Resume analytics and tracking: Users can monitor the views and downloads of their resumes, gaining valuable insights to optimize their job search strategies.
• Professional Resume : $169
• Resume With Cover Letter : $199
• All-Included : $199

>> Use Super Star Resume to Secure Your Dream Job

ZipJob - Best Resume Builder for Guarantees

Star Rating: 4.7/5

ZipJob is widely regarded as an excellent option for resume creation, especially for those who value guarantees. Their impressive 60-day assurance ensures that individuals searching for employment will experience a surge in interview invitations within this period.

If this desired outcome cannot materialize, ZipJob proactively offers a complimentary review and revision of your resume. This guarantee highlights their commitment to client contentment and showcases their unwavering belief in the superior quality of their resume writing services.

• The starting package is cost-effective
• Complimentary ATS check included
• 60-day interview assurance with higher-tier packages
• The design and layout made it challenging to read the resume
• The summary section was overly lengthy and filled with clichés
• The formatting of the education and training sections was subpar
• Expert resume writers: ZipJob provides access to a team of expert resume writers with the skills and knowledge to review, evaluate, and optimize your resume for compatibility with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and hiring managers.
• ATS optimization: Meaning they ensure your resume is structured and formatted to navigate and succeed in ATS filters effectively. Employers commonly use these filters to assess and rank resumes during the initial screening process.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder online offered by ZipJob assists you in identifying and integrating pertinent keywords and industry-specific terminology. This practice heightens the visibility of your resume, making it more likely to capture the attention of hiring managers.
• Job-specific content suggestions: ZipJob provides valuable advice regarding the most relevant and influential content to include in your resume for different job titles and industries. This guidance is invaluable in customizing your resume for specific roles.
• Cover letter writing assistance: ZipJob supports the creation of impactful cover letters that complement your resume, strengthening your overall job application.
• Unlimited revisions: One noteworthy feature of ZipJob is the option for unlimited revisions and updates to your resume. This ensures that your resume not only meets but continues to meet your specific requirements and mirrors your professional growth.
• Collaboration with resume writers: the platform facilitates direct collaboration with the resume writers, enabling you to share additional information, discuss specific requirements, and seek clarifications at any stage of the resume creation process.
• Launch Package: $139 (or $48/mo)
• Fast Track Package: $189 (or $65/mo)
• Premium Package: $299 (or $27/mo)

>> Use ZipJob to Secure Your Dream Job

Resumeble - Best Resume Builder With Custom Bundles

Star Rating: 4.3/5

Resumeble is a highly efficient and user-friendly resume builder that empowers individuals to create professional and compelling resumes. With Resumeble, crafting a standout resume becomes a streamlined process thanks to its intuitive interface and extensive range of customizable templates.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or someone looking to change careers, Resumeble caters to all needs and skill sets. It offers helpful suggestions and expert advice to ensure your resume showcases your unique qualifications and achievements in the best possible light.

• A 60-day interview guarantee is included
• Budget-friendly package deals are available
• It’s more established than some other websites
• Keyword optimization: This feature helps optimize your resume by suggesting relevant keywords aligned with your target industry or job, enhancing your visibility to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and recruiters.
• Content import: Resumeble allows you to import your existing resume or LinkedIn profile, saving you the time and effort of manual data entry.
• Real-time editing: You have the convenience of editing and modifying your resume in real time, providing the flexibility to experiment with various formats, sections, and content.
• ATS compatibility: Resumeble ensures your resume is ATS-compatible, essential for better visibility and a higher chance of being shortlisted by employers using Applicant Tracking Systems.
• Download options: The platform offers various download formats, including PDF, Word, and plain text, ensuring compatibility with diverse application processes.
• Cover letter builder: Resumeble features an integrated cover letter builder, streamlining the creation of professional and personalized cover letters that complement your resume.
• Career Pro Package : $159.00
• Professional Package : $299.00
• Premium Package : $399.00

>> Use Resumeble to Secure Your Dream Job

Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best Resume Builder for Range of Career Service

Star Rating: 4/5

Let’s Eat, Grandma is an inventive and progressive tool for creating impressive resumes. The platform streamlines the resume-building process, making it easier for job seekers to craft exceptional resumes. With Let’s Eat, Grandma, individuals can create unique resumes that catch the eye of employers and set them apart from the competition.

This user-friendly platform offers a range of customizable templates that allow users to tailor their resumes to showcase their specific skills and experiences. Let’s Eat, Grandma also provides expert advice and recommendations to help ensure that your qualifications and achievements are effectively highlighted in your resume.

• Complimentary resume evaluation
• Choices available for individuals from entry-level to executive-level positions
• Extensive collaboration opportunities
• Not specialized in academic CVs or federal resumes
• Relatively higher pricing compared to some other services
• Potential for a longer turnaround time compared to competing services
• Expert choice: You can save your resume in multiple formats (PDF, Word, plain text) or easily share it with potential employers via email or a link, simplifying the distribution of your resume.
• Error highlighting: The builder can identify potential errors, inconsistencies, or missing information within your resume and provide suggestions or alerts for improvement.
• Section prompts: Pre-written prompts for various resume sections (e.g., work experience, education, skills) can help you structure your resume effectively and ensure you include essential details in each area.
• Customizable sections: You can add, remove, or rearrange sections to tailor your resume to emphasize your strengths and relevant experiences.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder can recommend industry-specific keywords based on the job description, enhancing your resume’s chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and grabbing the attention of hiring managers.
• Starter Package : Priced at $439, but there is an anti-inflation sale price of $389.
• Accelerated Package : $549.
• The premium Package : $689, but the anti-inflation sale price is $614.
• Executive Concierge Service : $1,899 or as low as $119/month.

>> Use Let’s Eat, Grandma to Secure Your Dream Job

ResumeSpice - Best Resume Builder for Job Seekers of Any Level

Star Rating: 3.8/5

ResumeSpice , a renowned online resume builder, streamlines crafting professional resumes. This platform provides job seekers with a user-friendly interface and a wide selection of templates, enabling them to create impressive resumes that align with their career objectives.

With ResumeSpice’s seamless experience, users are guided through each resume section effortlessly while receiving valuable tips throughout the process. From personal details and work history to skills and accomplishments, this platform ensures that all crucial aspects of a resume are comprehensively addressed.

• Additional assistance
• Timely service
• ATS optimization
• Guaranteed interviews
• Restricted revisions
• Insufficient customization options
• Restricted refund policy
• User-friendly interface: ResumeSpice boasts an intuitive and user-friendly platform, simplifying the resume creation process and offering a seamless experience to users.
• Extensive template library: The platform offers a vast selection of professionally designed templates tailored to various industries and job positions. Users can explore different styles and layouts to find the perfect match for their needs.
• Import and export options: ResumeSpice enables users to import their existing resumes in formats like PDF or Word for easy editing and updates. Users can conveniently export their finalized resumes in multiple formats, facilitating sharing with employers or uploading to job portals.
• Mobile-friendly design: ResumeSpice is optimized for mobile devices, allowing users to create and modify their resumes using smartphones or tablets.
• Cloud storage: The platform provides secure cloud storage for users’ resumes, ensuring accessibility and updates from any device with an internet connection.
• Resume tracking: ResumeSpice includes tools for tracking the performance of submitted resumes, such as monitoring views, downloads, and application outcomes. These features empower users to evaluate their progress and make data-driven enhancements to their job search strategies.
• Entry Level Resume : $479
• Professional Resume : $589
• Executive Resume : $699

>> Use ResumeSpice to Secure Your Dream Job

TopResume - Best Resume Builder for Customer Service

Star Rating: 3.6/5

TopResume is an outstanding resume builder explicitly tailored for customer service professionals. It offers a seamless and user-friendly experience, enabling users to create exceptional resumes effortlessly. The platform goes beyond just providing a basic resume template, offering valuable suggestions and tips to optimize the content.

This ensures that each resume created on TopResume is unique and attention-grabbing in the highly competitive job market.

Besides its user-friendly interface, TopResume provides expert review services. These services allow skilled professionals to provide personalized feedback on resumes, helping enhance their overall quality further. By leveraging this feedback and incorporating attention to detail, customer service professionals can create compelling resumes that effectively capture the attention of potential employers.

• Streamlined registration process
• Well-designed and formatted one-page resume
• The summary and Job Scope sections were overly extended
• The training section needed to have prominence
• Skill-based sections: The resume builder features dedicated sections highlighting essential customer service skills, including communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
• Expert review services: TopResume provides expert review services where experienced professionals offer personalized feedback and recommendations to enhance the overall quality of your resume.
• ATS compatibility: The platform ensures that the resumes created are compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which employers commonly use for scanning and filtering resumes.
• Download and sharing options: Users can download their resumes in various formats, such as PDF or Word, and easily share them with potential employers or upload them to job portals.
• Industry-Specific Tips: TopResume offers industry-specific tips and guidance to assist users in tailoring their resumes to the customer service field, helping them stand out among competitors.
• Cover letter builder: Besides resume building, TopResume provides a builder that empowers users to craft professional and compelling cover letters customized for customer service roles.
• Mobile accessibility: The platform is mobile-friendly, allowing users to create, edit, and update their resumes while on the go, using their smartphones or tablets.
• Entry level : Up to 200$.
• Professional level : Up to 200$-400$.
• Executive level : Up to $350-$700.

>> Use TopResume to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Writing Services - Best Resume Builder for Affordability

Star Rating: 3.3/5

While Resumewritingservices.org may be a different size than its competitors, it stands out due to its team of talented and experienced resume writers. The website is user-friendly and provides exceptional service. However, this service’s true strength lies in its writers’ expertise.

Resumewritingservices.org sets itself apart by offering a comprehensive consultation process and goes beyond expectations by providing unlimited calls with its resume writers. This personalized approach distinguishes them from other companies and guarantees each client receives individual attention and support.

• Experienced resume writers of the highest caliber
• Unlimited phone consultations and revisions
• More expensive than rival services
• A limited range of products
• Skilled and experienced resume writers: Resumewritingservices.org takes pride in its team of highly trained and professional resume writers who possess a deep understanding of crafting effective resumes.
• Personalized service: Resumewritingservices.org offers a personal touch by providing unlimited calls with their resume writers. This unique feature allows clients to engage in direct communication and close collaboration with the writers throughout the resume creation process.
• Competitive job market expertise: The writers at Resumewritingservices.org have knowledge of current job market trends. This ensures that the resumes they create are optimized to excel in today’s fiercely competitive job market.
• Quality Assurance: The service maintains a rigorous quality assurance process to guarantee that the resumes delivered to clients meet the highest standards and align with their expectations.
• Timely delivery: Resumewritingservices.org is committed to delivering resumes within the agreed-upon timeframe, ensuring clients receive their documents promptly.
• Client satisfaction guarantee: Resumewritingservices.org offers a client satisfaction guarantee, assuring clients are fully content with the final resume. The service is ready to provide revisions if necessary.
• Affordable pricing: Resumewritingservices.org provides pricing options that are competitive and transparent, making professional resume writing accessible to a wide range of job seekers.

Resumewritingservices.org employs a pricing system that is clear and easy to understand for their resume-building services. The initial package begins at $270 , including a comprehensive consultation with a skilled resume writer and developing an individualized resume.

They offer extra options that enable customers to personalize their packages based on their unique preferences. This adaptable pricing strategy guarantees that clients can choose the services that align with their requirements and financial constraints.

>> Use Resume Writing Services to Secure Your Dream Job

Craft Resumes - Best Resume Builder for Quick-Turnaround

Star Rating: 3/5

Craft Resumes stand out as a well-established writing and editing service known for its ability to deliver effective outcomes. Our dedication to providing a 24-hour turnaround guarantees you’ll receive the initial version of your resume promptly.

Navigating our user-friendly website is effortless, making it easy to use our services. At Craft Resumes, we specialize in crafting customized resumes to match your skills, qualifications, and aspirations for your career.

• Speedy completion
• Customized CVs
• Intuitive site
• Insufficient details
• Absence of assurances
• Quick turnaround: Craft Resumes commits to delivering the initial draft of your resume within 24 hours, ensuring a speedy and efficient service.
• Expert Writers: Craft Resumes prides itself on its team of experienced writers who possess expertise across various industries and stay up-to-date with current hiring trends. They’re dedicated to making your resume stand out and catch the attention of potential employers.
• Unlimited revisions: We provide unlimited revisions to guarantee your complete satisfaction. If you have specific changes or additions in mind, our team will collaborate with you closely to implement the modifications.
• Confidentiality and Privacy: At Craft Resumes, we prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of your personal information. You can trust that your data will be handled securely and with the utmost discretion.
• Tailored resumes: We specialize in tailoring resumes to align with your career objectives, industry, and job requirements. Each resume is personalized to accentuate your unique strengths and qualifications.
• Resume Writing : $229.00
• Basic : $279.99
• Optimal : $339.99
• All-In-One : $499.99

>> Use Craft Resumes to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Companion - Best Value Resume Builder

Star Rating: 2.8/5

Resume Companion is a virtual platform and service that specializes in aiding individuals in creating resumes that are professional and impactful. It offers an array of resources and tools to assist job seekers in crafting interesting resumes that effectively showcase their skills, experiences, and qualifications.

A prominent feature of Resume Companion is its user-friendly resume builder. This tool allows users to select from various professionally designed templates and personalize them based on their specific requirements.

Users can effortlessly incorporate their personal information, employment history, educational background, skill set, and other pertinent details to produce a customized resume tailored to their needs.

• Intuitive user interface
• High-quality templates
• Efficiency-boosting functions
• Cost-effective choice
• Restricted editing features without subscription
• Absence of extensive customization options
• Limited availability of extra services
• Cover letter builder: Resume Companion goes beyond resumes and provides users with a tool for crafting customized cover letters tailored to specific job applications. This feature guides users through the process, helping them effectively present their qualifications and make a compelling case to prospective employers.
• ATS optimization: In today’s job market, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Resume Companion helps users ensure their resumes are ATS-friendly. The platform offers valuable tips and insights on incorporating relevant keywords, formatting the document correctly, and increasing the likelihood of passing through the ATS screening process.
• Educational resources: Resume Companion extends its services by offering an informative blog and educational materials that cover various aspects of resume writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, and career development guidance. These resources provide users with valuable insights and advice to help them create impressive resumes and enhance their job search efforts.
• Download and sharing options: Upon completing their resumes, users can conveniently download their documents in multiple formats, including PDF and Word. Resume Companion also makes it easy for users to share their resumes online or print them offline.
• Customer support: Resume Companion values user satisfaction and offers customer support to assist with users’ questions or concerns while utilizing the platform. Users can access support through email or the platform’s contact form.

Resume Companion provides a cost-effective solution for individuals seeking an all-inclusive service. It’s vital to remember subscription renewal is required to access future editing services. In summary, Resume Companion offers a wallet-friendly option for those who desire a user-friendly resume-building experience without needing advanced writing abilities.

>> Use Resume Companion to Secure Your Dream Job

Our Ranking Methodology for Best Resume Writing Services

To comprehensively and objectively rank the top resume writing services, it is essential to have a thorough methodology. The first step in this process was conducting extensive research and analysis. This involved gathering a comprehensive list of reputable resume-writing services from multiple sources such as online searches, customer reviews, industry directories, and personal recommendations.

• Feature analysis: Evaluate the functionalities provided by each resume builder, considering elements like template variety and quality, customization flexibility, user-friendly editing and formatting options, import/export capabilities, spell check and grammar tools, and integration with job search platforms and professional networks.
• Template collection: Examine the assortment and quality of templates. Look for a wide range that suits various industries, job levels, and design preferences, considering these templates’ aesthetics, readability, and contemporary design.
• Editing and customization: Scrutinize the adaptability and user-friendliness of the editing and customization tools each resume builder provides. Assess the capacity to add or modify sections, reorganize content, and tailor resumes to specific job requirements.
• User interface and experience: Analyze the user interface and the overall user experience each resume builder offers. Evaluate the ease of navigation, instruction clarity, guidance or prompts, and the platform’s responsiveness.
• Integration with job search platforms: Determine whether resume builders offer seamless integration with popular job search platforms and professional networks like LinkedIn or ATS systems. Consider how well the resumes can be transferred and their compatibility with these platforms.
• Additional resources: Evaluate if the resume builders provide extra resources such as sample resumes, tools for creating cover letters, interview tips, or career advice. Consider the breadth and practicality of these supplementary resources.
• Mobile-friendliness: Gauge the mobile-friendliness and responsiveness of the resume builders, recognizing the growing trend of mobile job searching and application processes.
• Customer support: Reflect on the accessibility and quality of customer support services, encompassing options like live chat, email support, or knowledge bases. Assess the responsiveness and helpfulness of the support team.
• Pricing and value for money: Appraise the pricing plans presented by the resume builders in terms of the value they offer based on features, usability, and overall service quality.
• Industry reputation: Consider the standing and trustworthiness of the resume builders, considering factors such as awards, recognition, partnerships, and user feedback from reputable sources.

Buyer’s Guide: Why Use a Resume Builder?

Crafting a well-crafted CV comes naturally to particular job seekers. However, even the most seasoned experts may need help in resume writing. If you find yourself in need of help with creating a compelling resume, here are several ways in which the best online resume builder can be beneficial:

Resume builders provide users with pre-designed templates and helpful tips, streamlining the process of writing a resume and alleviating stress.

Offers Writing Tips

Promoting oneself requires considerable effort. Only some people possess writing skills, even if they enjoy self-promotion. To showcase one’s experience and knowledge effectively, a resume builder can help select the most appropriate words and phrases.

Improves Design

In every field, there are unique standards for an impressive resume. If you need to gain knowledge in design or the tools, resume builders can provide free templates to enhance your resume’s visual appeal and quality.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Recruiters often use ATS systems to scan resumes. A good resume builder will help with formatting to ensure that your resume is easy for these systems to read.

What’s the Best Resume Builder?

The ideal resume builder for each individual may differ according to their specific requirements. If you prefer a tool that offers step-by-step guidance in creating your resume, we suggest using a builder that provides helpful tips and recommendations. If you prefer a resume builder that auto-generates a summary, we recommend using a tool that extracts information from your LinkedIn profile.

For those who enjoy having creative control over their resumes, we suggest using a platform with features. By selecting the resume builder that aligns with your needs and suits your industry and personal style, you’ll significantly increase your chances of capturing the attention of hiring managers.

Resume Builder vs. Resume Writing Service: What Matters for You

When it comes to crafting a resume, there are three options available. You can opt to create it independently, use a resume builder tool, or enlist the services of a professional resume writer. Your best choice will depend on your writing abilities, available time, and financial resources.

Do-It-Yourself

You have the choice to construct a resume entirely by yourself. The benefit of this option is that it costs nothing but requires a significant amount of effort. Along with composing all the information, you must possess graphic design skills.

This approach works well if you have these abilities, but with them, your options for creating a resume are unlimited. To overcome this limitation, you can use a resume builder or enlist the help of a resume writing service.

Resume Builder

A tool for creating resumes allows you to input your details into a template, resulting in an original appearance and layout with no design work. The top resume building tools also offer suggestions on enhancing your resume and tailoring it to match the specific job you are applying for.

While you are still responsible for writing the content, once it is written, you can quickly transfer that information into any other template with just a few simple clicks. Some of these services are free and many like to promote themselves as such, but most require a small payment to download your finished resume.

Professional Resume Writing Service

Professional resume writing services are expensive, but they offer the convenience of handling all the work for you. An experienced writer will gather relevant information about your background and transform it into a unique and engaging resume.

The process typically takes a few days, and the level of originality in the outcome largely relies on your choice of company and writer. However, we will not delve into these services further in this guide.

Are Resume Builders Worth It?

Definitely, without a doubt. An effective resume creator will guarantee that your CV is formatted correctly to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems and ultimately reach the hands of recruiters.

Is It Unprofessional to Use a Microsoft Word Resume Template?

Relying on a template will not set you apart, and there is a high likelihood that your application will be dismissed because your resume is identical to those of other job seekers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right resume builder is crucial in today’s competitive job market. Creating a professional and impactful resume that stands out from the crowd can significantly impact your job search. With the right tool, you can save time, improve your chances of landing an interview, and ultimately secure your dream job.

When selecting a resume builder, consider your specific needs and priorities. Look for features like customizable templates, industry-specific examples, and the ability to export your resume in different formats. Consider user reviews and ratings to ensure you choose a reputable and reliable platform.

Remember, an exceptional tool for crafting resumes should give you the power to present your skills, experience, and accomplishments effectively. It should simplify and expedite creating a resume without hassle. Investing in a reliable resume builder is investing in your professional future.

Therefore, explore the different options available for resume builders. Test out their free trials or demos and choose the best fit for your objectives. Our top recommendation is Super Star Resume . This meticulously designed resume can open doors to exciting career prospects and be a dependable companion on your journey toward success.

Ahad Waseem is a business, blockchain, and cybersecurity writer who often takes on art, politics, and economics too. As a linguistic engineer who writes to solve problems, he’s written for various tech and business publications. When he’s not writing, he’s probably on horseback, caring for his houseplants, or training Bonsai trees. He can be reached at [email protected] . McClatchy’s newsrooms were not involved in the creation of this content. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links.

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