When I write an executive resume, I aim to accomplish two goals:
- Give the reader the sense that the candidate appears well-suited for a role.
- Intrigue them to want to read more when they have more time.
The Secret to Success is in the Details
Details that convey a quick story. Details that speak volumes. Details likely to resonate because when the reader digests them, they immediately connect and think, “this is the problem I need solved!”
When it comes to writing an executive resume, there are 2 primary scenarios where the power of details can make all the difference in spelling out value:
#1 Details that Show Accomplishments, Not Responsibilities.
Every job has a basic set of responsibilities. A quick google search can tell you what they are, and most job postings do a decent job of outlining them.
A resume that focuses on outlining these responsibilities tells the reader you can perform these tasks – but offers no sense of how well you can do the job.
This is where details that showcase accomplishments can save the day. Here’s an example that showcases how added details to an executive resume can help to paint the full picture for the reader:
BEFORE
- Managed all the aspects of product development, projects and program management, and quality management. Set up an offshore development team and recruited engineers, developed training plans and established a successful delivery model.
AFTER
- Revitalized 150-member offshore organization struggling with reputation for underperformance. Revamped team that emerged with reputation for quality and productivity through structure and coaching and by establishing KPIs to ensure accountability.
- Returned bloated and delayed product project back on track for key account – a Pharma 50 organization – by repairing stakeholder relationships and leading a delivery roadmap resulting in a timely and on-budget pilot go-live.
#2 Details Couched with Context that Weave in Metrics
The phrase “numbers speak louder than words” often rings true when it comes to resume reading. It is especially true when these numbers also include some context.
Here’s what I mean:
BEFORE
Incomplete details on resume:
Responsible for an annual sales quota.
Details that weave in metrics:
Grew revenues 20% in 12 months.
AFTER
Details couched with context that weave in metrics:
Reversed 2 years of sales decline to grow revenues 20% in 12 months by analyzing CRM data that uncovered untapped market niche.
This bullet works because it has the potential to elicit 3 responses – each of which will benefit the job seeker:
RESPONSE #1: A reader who has experienced sales decline can relate and say, “This is the problem I need solved.”
RESPONSE #2: A reader who needs someone who can analyze data to yield results will say, “This is the problem I need solved.”
RESPONSE #3: The reader will likely be curious and want to know more about the untapped niche.
The Power of Resume Details that Show AND Tell
When a bullet provides just enough detail to show the reader how you put your skills to good use – it is much more likely to resonate with them and help them connect the dots as to how you may be well-suited for the role!
I hope these examples help and happy job hunting!