The "Keys" To A Great Resume

Posted on: 2014-04-01

There is no right or wrong way to put a resume together. Some argue that a resume should be extensive and detailed with multiple pages of information. Others argue that it should be no longer than one page. Everyone has an opinion.  However, one area we always suggest candidates focus on is using specific key words to highlight their experience. Using key words in your resume can effectively capture a hiring manager’s attention and get you past the first hurdle.  Following are six key words we suggest you include in your resume.

1. Impact: Impact is a great resume “buzz word” because it helps illustrate how you can positively affect a company.  Example: Created a company wide impact by introducing three different value-added continuing education programs used by the current salesforce.
   
   
2. Competency: Employers want candidates who can prove they are fulfilling the job requirements in the position for which they are applying. Competency is a great word to illustrate this quality.  Example: Currently studying for CIMA designation in order to improve technical understanding of sophisticated securities products and improve industry competency.
   
   
3. Persistent: Every successful business executive has had to be persistent in order to be successful. Prove it!  Example: Established a persistent sales rotation schedule that lead to an average of five face-to-face meetings per day, for over three months straight.
   
   
4. Recognized: It is very important to highlight past achievements that have earned you recognition. Employers love to see someone another employer considered a star!  Example: Recognized by both peers and counterparts as most improved sales representative in 2010.
   
   
5. Results: List factual results on your resume. Hiring managers want to see if you have a history of producing results. Proving you have produced results in an area where the hiring firm has a specific problem, could get you the job.  Example: Wholesaled throughout Texas since 2005 resulting in over $500MM in new mutual fund assets raised.
   
   
6. Commitment: More than ever, employers are looking for employees who are dedicated to their jobs and the company. Commitment is a key word to help illustrate this.  Example: Made a commitment to the national sales manager to act as a mentor to any newly hired sales rep. Served as a mentor to five junior sales reps in the last two years.

A great resume is just the beginning, but one of the most important steps in your job search!