Job searching is a time-consuming task, from composing cover letters, updating your resume, applying to jobs, the interview process, and so on. Human Resource managers sift through hundreds of resumes while looking for a candidate to fill the position. An eye-catching resume summary is one way to make your resume stand out from the crowd. What is a resume summary, and how does it differ from a resume objective? How do you know which one to use? This article provides a guide on how to write a summary for your resume, along with resume summary examples.
For further assistance, contact a local job agency. Agents are able to assist you every step of the way, from resume writing to salary negotiation and more.
Difference Between Resume Summary And Resume Objective
What is a Resume Summary?
A resume summary is a brief summary that highlights your most significant career achievements and professional skills. This gives the hiring manager a quick glance to determine whether you fit the job. The resume summary is located at the top of the resume after your contact details. A resume summary is ideal for those who have work experience relevant to the position for which they are applying.
See further below for summary resume examples. As well as learn how to compose a resume summary that will catch the hiring manager’s eye.
What are the benefits of a Resume Summary
- A good summary includes pertinent keywords.
An ideal summary on a resume contains keywords that are related to the position in question. Hiring managers skim for specific keywords when pursuing resumes.
- Resume summaries make your resume stand out from those competing for the same position.
Most likely, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of people vying for the same position. A stand-out resume summary gives you a leg up on the competition.
- Resume summaries are ideal for those who wish to change careers
A carefully worded summary shows that your achievements, experience, and goals are applicable to your new career path.
What is a Resume Objective?
A resume objective is also at the top of the resume under the contact info. It is most usual for those who do not have ample experience for the job to which they are applying. The objective briefly summarizes the applicant’s career goals and how these goals apply to the position in question.
How To Write a Resume Summary
- Be concise
Your summary for each resume should be one or two concise sentences. It should include your job title, years of experience, top skills, and greatest achievements. Find some resume examples later in this article.
- Tailor the summary to each position for which you are applying
It is crucial that you tweak your resume summary so that it is relevant to each specific job for which you are applying. A generic summary does not catch the eye of the hiring personnel. Make sure that you take the time to tailor each resume summary so that it fits each job. Use the job description for each position as a guide to help compose each individual resume summary.
- Use quantifiable achievements pertinent to the position
As you have limited space to state your resume summary, it is imperative that you include those achievements that are most significant and pertain to the job in question. This means they should be quantified with data to prove they are credible and can be fact-checked if needed.
- Utilize action verbs and power words to gain the attention of the hiring manager
To ensure that your resume is captivating enough to gain attention, it is best to use action verbs and power words. Both of these will make your resume summary stand out.
Examples of action verbs include:
- Analyzed
- Administered
- Created
- Implemented
- Revitalized
- And so on
Examples of power words include:
- Advocated
- Collaborated
- Facilitated
- Inspired
- Mentored
- And so on
Resume Summary Examples
Example 1:
Detailed-oriented administrative assistant with 10 years of experience in marketing, highly proficient in administrative duties and office duties. Proficient in Microsoft Office.
Example 2:
Licensed CPA with 25 years of experience in accounting, financial audits, and budget analysis. Managed a four-person accounting team for 15 years.