When it comes to making a positive impression on a hiring manager, your accomplishments can set you apart in a big way. When you highlight a proven track record, beyond just your skills, abilities, and duties, you’ll send the message that you’re a solid professional capable of delivering results.
Your accomplishments also demonstrate your key strengths, highlight your history of growth and development, and ultimately showcase to a potential employer that you can add value to their team. If, however, you’re not sure how to discuss your accomplishments on your resume, here are some tips to help you:
How Can You Highlight Your Accomplishments on a Resume?
Choose accomplishments that are relevant to the role.
The best resume is a customized one. That means the accomplishments you discuss for one job opportunity might be different from those you highlight for another.
Read through the job listing and make a note of the requirements and qualifications the employer is looking for. Then think of specific examples in your background that relate to the job. This way, you can tie in your achievements with the specific position, setting yourself apart.
Discuss an array of accomplishments.
Your accomplishments can include many different achievements. For instance, if you’re an entry-level candidate who has just graduated from college, a high GPA and college extracurricular activities can be important to highlight.
If, however, you’re an experienced professional, focus instead on specific achievements from your job history. Other accomplishments you can discuss can include those you’ve achieved through volunteer opportunities, industry-specific certifications, or returning to school to earn an advanced degree.
Include accomplishments throughout your resume.
Many of your accomplishments will likely be in your “Work History” section. However, they can also be in the “Summary of Qualifications” at the top of your resume, in your “Education” section, or in additional sections that discuss volunteer work, industry credentials earned, and other miscellaneous items. You can also dig a little deeper into a particular accomplishment in your cover letter.
Here’s an example to help you:
Office manager with 15+ years of experience focused on the manufacturing industry. Earned the “Most Valuable Employee” award three times during 10-year history with current company and hold an Administrative Assistant Certification from the National Career Certification Board.
These achievements are a key part of strengthening your resume and also helping you stand out from other candidates. However, there are a few accomplishments not to include, such as old ones, anything relating to your personal life, especially if it brings politics or religion into the mix, and any exaggerations. A hiring manager can easily check your credentials and accomplishments, so always be honest about them.
Need more help finding your next job?
At Future Force, we’re one of Orlando’s leading staffing agencies and can connect you with opportunities that are an excellent fit for you. We’ll help you improve your resume, polish your interview skills, and hit the ground running in a great new role. Search our jobs now to get started.
