Lately, I’ve been getting resumes to review. For many of us, it’s been awhile since we’ve had to work on our resume….I find the same things remain true even now….mylessonslearned.

1, I should understand what you do and what you want to do fast. If I can’t understand exactly what your role is, it’s going to be harder for me to figure out what position you should be playing on my team.  So be clear. Titles at your company might not be the same elsewhere, so don’t rely on the title to explain your role. Also, what are you looking for?  Sometimes I read resumes, and I’m not sure what they want to do next. Are they looking for a promotion? Want to do something different? The clearer you are, the more you help me.

2. Responsibilities and accomplishments: those are two categories I like to see for each position. What were you responsible for, and what did you get done?  Yout accomplishments should be meaningful and specific….not so detailed that it reads like a checklist….I’m looking for the highlights. Don’t take up valuable space with boring stuff.

3. Data: it’s important to sprinkle in key metrics to make your point. If you saved money, how much? If you redesigned processes, how many?  Metrics strengthen your case and set context.  It means a lot more if you run a team of 20 than a team of 2.

4. Cut the superfluous stuff:  like knowing how to use MS Office. If it’s not why I’m going to hire you and in the job description, you don’t need to include it. Licenses yes. Excel no.

5. Highlight the big deal stuff: graduated magna? big deal. Made the lead on a project team? Big deal.  Anything that makes you stand out, that makes you special….yes, I want to know.

Net net, I have a team with only so many positions. Tell me why I need you on it. Why passing up on you would be a big regret. There are many, many candidates. If you’re the one, make sure I know why.