Your career tells a story, and your résumé should do more than list where you have worked. It is a snapshot that should show where you have been, what you bring to the table, and why an employer should want to meet you. This process takes time, and before I wrote a single bullet point, I took time to learn the stories behind each experience. I put together a few questions to guide the process and turn your professional history into a résumé that presents as clear, confident, and tailored to your field of expertise.
Question: What role or career path are you focusing on?
A résumé is most effective when it is written with a focus in mind. It is important to discuss the types of positions you are applying for, the industries that interest you, and whether you are pursuing a career change, promotion, or a return to the workplace. Then we can focus on what experience to highlight and the most applicable skills.
Question: Which accomplishments are you most proud of?
In many instances, I find skills and ‘wins’ overlooked, seemingly not important, but they are. Many people easily share their daily responsibilities with me but cannot see the achievements. Here’s where I can help.
You may talk with me about a project you were tasked with creating or improving, or a goal you exceeded, or a process you streamlined. What seems like just another task demonstrates more: leadership, expertise, and initiative. You probably do more than you think you do!
Question: What problems do you solve and what were the results?
Potential employers notice statistics and the impact you made, not just in the completion of the tasks. For example, you might say, “Managed a sales team of 10 remote people.” This may sound better: Managed a sales team and portfolio of accounts, creating brand team loyalty, account retention, and increasing sales by 120%.” (sound good?)
Look for and convey details such as time saved, revenue increased, costs reduced, and customer satisfaction improved. Numbers can help, but you can communicate meaningful results even if exact figures aren’t available.
Question: What does your résumé not say about you?
Let’s discuss the elements of your ‘story’ that don’t appear on your résumé. Perhaps you took on responsibilities of another role without a formal title change, or you completed training to build your skills. If you had a career gap, we would highlight freelance work, volunteer activities, or educational pursuits that helped you develop skills. I also want to understand any transitions that may need ‘careful positioning,’ such as a layoff, transition to a new department, or a return to work after time away. We never want to hide your story; the key is to present it clearly and with confidence.
Question: What makes you a strong fit for the jobs you are applying to?
What sets you apart from the pack? We will identify your professional value and help you articulate it when you’re speaking with the hiring manager. Let’s discuss your strengths, specialized knowledge, work style, and, of course, experience. Share any feedback, positive and negative, you have received from managers, peers, and clients.
You might be surprised to discover that these experiences have helped you develop stronger relationships, manage complex projects, handle challenging employees or clients, and perform well under pressure. Together, we will turn these strengths into a compelling résumé that gives employers a clear incentive to keep reading and encourages them to schedule a meeting with you.
Let’s turn our discussion into an impressive résumé!
Need assistance in crafting your professional story? You don’t have to figure out how to convey your experience on your own. A strong résumé starts with a strategy to transform your experience into a compelling story.
If you’re ready for a résumé that effectively showcases who you are professionally and highlights your personal impact on organizations, book a free consultation with me and let’s begin!
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