How can you choose the best achievements for your resume?

1 Why achievements matter

Achievements are not just a list of tasks or duties that you performed in your previous roles. They are concrete and measurable outcomes that demonstrate your skills, abilities, and contributions to the organization's goals. Achievements show that you can deliver results, solve problems, and add value in your field. They also help you stand out from the crowd and show your potential for future success.

2 How to identify your achievements

To identify your achievements, you need to think beyond your job description and focus on the impact and value that you created or delivered. A useful way to do this is to use the STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This method helps you structure your achievements by describing the context, challenge, solution, and outcome of your work. For example, instead of saying "Managed a team of 10 salespeople", you could say "Led a team of 10 salespeople to achieve a 25% increase in revenue by implementing a new sales strategy and providing coaching and feedback".

4 How to customize your achievements

Customizing your achievements means tailoring them to the specific job and employer that you are applying for. Customizing your achievements helps you show that you are a good fit for the role and the organization. It also helps you highlight your most relevant and transferable skills and experiences. To customize your achievements, you need to research the job description, the employer's mission, vision, and values, and the industry trends and challenges. Then, you need to select and prioritize the achievements that match the requirements, expectations, and goals of the employer.

5 How to format your achievements

Formatting your achievements means presenting them in a clear, concise, and consistent way on your resume. Formatting your achievements helps you make a good impression and catch the attention of the hiring manager. To format your achievements, you need to use bullet points, action verbs, and positive language. You also need to avoid jargon, acronyms, and vague terms. You should place your achievements under each relevant work experience section, and start each bullet point with the result followed by the action and the situation. For example, "Increased sales by 30% in six months by developing and executing a new marketing campaign".

6 How to review your achievements

Reviewing your achievements means checking and refining them to make sure they are accurate, relevant, and impactful. Reviewing your achievements helps you avoid errors, inconsistencies, and exaggerations that could undermine your credibility and professionalism. To review your achievements, you need to proofread and edit your resume for spelling, grammar, and punctuation. You also need to ask for feedback from a trusted friend, colleague, or mentor who can offer you an objective and constructive perspective. You should also compare your achievements with the job description and the employer's needs and expectations, and make any necessary adjustments.