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46 Examples of a Resume Opening Statement (Perfect Introduction)

By Status.net Editorial Team on February 8, 2024 — 8 minutes to read

A resume opening statement, also known as a summary or objective, serves as your first impression to potential employers. This brief and concise introduction highlights your relevant skills, experiences, and career goals. It’s important because it can catch an employer’s attention and convince them to read the rest of your resume.

  • Sets the tone : It establishes a professional image and indicates the level of your expertise.
  • Tailors your resume : You can tailor this statement to align with the job description, showcasing how your skills are a perfect match for the position.
  • Showcases your value : By summarizing your most impressive accomplishments, you can quickly show how you will add value to the company.

Elements of a Strong Opening Statement

When you’re crafting the opening statement for your resume, think of it as your professional handshake. This means you need to capture attention while succinctly showcasing your top qualifications. Here are key elements to include:

  • Tailor it to the job. Match your statement to the job description. Highlight how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the position.
  • Use actionable language. Start sentences with verbs that convey your ability to take initiative, such as “managed,” “developed,” or “increased.”
  • Quantify achievements. Where possible, use numbers to demonstrate your accomplishments. For example, “Increased sales by 20% within a year through strategic marketing initiatives.”
  • Include relevant experience. Mention your most pertinent past roles. If you’re a recent graduate, focus on education, internships, and important projects.
  • Add your career goals. Briefly outline how you intend to contribute to the company and grow professionally.
  • Keep it concise. Your opening statement should be a compelling snapshot, not a deep dive. Aim for no more than a few sentences or bullet points.

Sales Manager: “Seasoned Sales Manager with over 10 years of experience in fostering robust client relationships and driving profitable business growth. Achieved an average of 15% yearly sales increase by leading and mentoring a dynamic team.”

Graphic Designer: “Creative Graphic Designer with a passion for developing original designs that resonate with audiences. Expert in Adobe Creative Suite with a track record of delivering high-impact visuals for diverse campaigns.”

Crafting a Personalized Introduction

When writing a resume opening statement, you should focus on creating a unique introduction that captures your professional identity. It’s important to tailor this section specifically to the job you’re applying for, highlighting skills and experiences that align with what the potential employer is seeking.

  • Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs attention. You might introduce yourself with a significant achievement or detail that’s relevant to the role. Example: “As a digital marketing specialist with a proven track record in growing online audiences, I’ve successfully increased social media engagement by over 60% for multiple brands.”
  • Connect your background to the job description. Use the keywords from the job listing to emphasize how your experience matches the requirements. Example: “With a commitment to continuous improvement and lean management, I bring over 5 years of experience in streamlining operational processes for manufacturing sectors.”
  • Mention any unique qualifications or certifications that set you apart from other candidates. Example: “Certified project management professional (PMP) skilled in leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and under budget.”
  • Reflect your enthusiasm for the role. Employers appreciate candidates who are excited about the possibility of joining their team. Example: “Eager to contribute my expertise in innovative UX design and user research to enhance the client experience at a forward-thinking tech company like yours.”

Tailoring the Statement to the Job Description

When you’re writing a resume opening statement, it’s important to align it with the job you’re applying for. Start by carefully reading the job description. Identify the key skills and experiences the employer is looking for. Your opening statement should reflect that you possess these qualifications.

Make a list of the skills and competencies the job requires. For example, if the job calls for “excellent customer service skills” or “proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite,” make sure these are mentioned in your statement if you have these skills. Here’s how you might begin your statement for such a scenario:

  • For customer service roles: “Dedicated customer service professional with 5 years of experience…”
  • For a design position: “Creative graphic designer skilled in Adobe Creative Suite, with a strong…”

You can use keywords from the job description. This not only shows you’re a good match but also helps your resume get past applicant tracking systems which are programmed to look for these keywords.

Use quantifiable achievements when possible. Instead of writing “experienced salesperson,” you might say, “Sales professional with a track record of exceeding targets by 20%.”

Examples of Resume Opening Statements

  • Experienced marketing manager with a proven track record in developing successful campaigns and leading high-performing teams.
  • Customer service expert committed to providing exceptional care and developing long-term client relationships.
  • Detail-oriented graphic designer with 5+ years in the freelance industry, known for creativity and a quick turnaround time.
  • Certified project manager who has successfully delivered over 30 large-scale technology projects on time and within budget.
  • Professional content writer with a knack for crafting engaging content that boosts SEO and drives user engagement.
  • Recent graduate with a Master’s in Environmental Science ready to apply rigorous research and analytical skills in a dynamic setting.
  • Enthusiastic sales associate recognized repeatedly for top performance and commitment to team goals.
  • Dynamic HR coordinator with a passion for improving employee relations and a deep understanding of recruitment processes.
  • Organized administrative assistant, experienced in scheduling, office management, and providing excellent administrative support to executives.
  • Skilled electrician with a focus on maintaining high safety standards and delivering quality service on residential and commercial projects.
  • Ambitious business analyst, eager to use extensive background in data analysis and financial modeling to drive business insights.
  • Compassionate social worker with a strong background in counseling and case management for diverse populations.
  • Seasoned retail manager, adept at merchandising, staff training, and increasing sales through strategic store operations.
  • Bilingual translator fluent in English and Spanish, dedicated to maintaining the essence of the original text in each translation.
  • Professional chef with a love for farm-to-table cooking and experience managing fast-paced restaurant kitchens.
  • Reliable logistics coordinator with a deep understanding of supply chain processes and a commitment to efficiency and cost-reduction.
  • Goal-oriented fitness coach with a track record of designing personalized programs that help clients achieve their fitness goals.
  • Versatile performer with experience in theater, film, and voice acting, ready to bring characters to life with enthusiasm and dedication.
  • Data scientist with a passion for uncovering insights through big data analytics and advanced statistical methods.
  • Talented web designer with a flair for creating intuitive, user-friendly websites that drive user engagement.
  • Civil engineer with expertise in green building techniques and a dedication to sustainable urban development.
  • Industrial designer with a knack for developing innovative product designs that meet consumer needs and manufacturing requirements.
  • Doctoral candidate in Computer Science, eager to apply research on machine learning algorithms in a practical, industry setting.
  • Skilled carpenter with a strong work ethic and extensive experience in residential and commercial construction.
  • Professional photographer with expertise in portrait and landscape photography and a passion for capturing unforgettable moments.
  • Certified public accountant with rigorous attention to detail and a strong background in financial analysis and tax preparation.
  • Recent Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate, eager to provide high-quality patient care in a challenging healthcare environment.
  • Expertise in aerospace engineering with a strong foundation in fluid dynamics and propulsion systems.
  • Dedicated teacher with a focus on inclusive education and fostering a love for learning in every student.
  • Results-driven marketing specialist with a solid understanding of digital marketing trends and analytics tools.
  • Construction project manager skilled in leading cross-functional teams and delivering projects under tight deadlines.
  • Laboratory technician with a meticulous approach to conducting experiments and analyzing scientific data.
  • Seasoned journalist with a history of reporting on international events and an ability to uncover the truth in complex stories.
  • Sophisticated fashion designer with a unique aesthetic and experience showcasing collections at major fashion weeks.
  • Financial planner dedicated to helping individuals meet their long-term financial goals, with a flair for investment strategies.
  • IT specialist with proficiency in network security and experience in protecting corporate data against cyber threats.
  • Skilled mediator known for resolving conflicts and facilitating productive conversations in corporate environments.
  • Professional fundraiser with a talent for crafting compelling campaigns that inspire community involvement and donations.
  • Environmental consultant committed to helping businesses reduce their environmental impact through sustainable practices.
  • Hospitality manager with a warm demeanor and a proven ability to increase guest satisfaction and hotel profitability.
  • Multilingual interpreter with expertise in facilitating communication for international delegations and business meetings.
  • Expert in supply chain management with a drive for optimizing operations and improving delivery timeframes.
  • Agile coach with a passion for empowering teams to adopt agile principles and improve their workflow and productivity.
  • Risk management professional with extensive knowledge in financial regulations and experience in mitigating business risks.
  • Dynamic event planner with a reputation for organizing memorable corporate events and managing intricate details seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i craft an engaging opening statement for my resume if i lack professional experience.

Focus on your soft skills and any relevant academic or volunteer experience. For example, “Eager and disciplined recent graduate with a passion for data analysis and a keen eye for detail.”

What are the elements of a strong objective statement for an entry-level resume?

A strong objective statement should highlight your career goals, relevant skills, and how you can contribute to the company. For instance, “Recent graduate seeking an entry-level accountant position to apply my strong numerical proficiency and analytical skills.”

As a student, what should I focus on in my resume’s opening statement?

Emphasize your academic achievements, any related coursework, and the skills you’ve honed as a student. Example: “Honors student with exceptional leadership skills seeking an internship to explore a career in the non-profit sector.”

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How to Write an Opening Statement for Your Resume + 10 Examples

What a resume opening statement is, when you should include one, and real examples to help you write your own. A guide written by recruiters and hiring managers.

3 years ago   •   10 min read

Recruiters are busy, and they might receive hundreds of applications for one position in a single day. Studies have shown that employers spend an average of 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume before tossing it in the “yes” or “no” pile, and with such a slim margin, it’s important to have a resume that grips the reader from the start. One great way to draw in a recruiter is through an opening statement on your resume.

What is a resume opening statement?

An opening statement is a short paragraph at the beginning of the resume that gives the employer a snapshot of what you can bring to the table, and why you are the best choice for hire. It’s essentially your elevator pitch — the first impression you make in an interview when the recruiter says, “So, tell us about yourself.” Broadly speaking, there are 3 types of resume opening statements:

Resume summary

  • Resume objective
  • Resume offering statement

Types of opening statements

Here's a breakdown of the different types of resume opening statements, including the pros and cons of each one:

A resume summary statement is a quick overview of your background where you can highlight key skills and experience. This is the most common type of resume opening statement — essentially, it's a type of brand statement , like an abridged cover letter. Here's an example:

Experienced web developer with a background in X, Y, Z programs, winning awards in CSS Design (2019) and Apple Design Awards (2020), and most recently reduced bus for XYZ by 25% .

Pro: Allows you to quickly highlight key skills and experience relevant to the job you're applying for.

Con: Doesn't add anything of value if your resume is otherwise self-explanatory, so make sure your opening statement adds something that's not otherwise

How to write your resume opening statement

Here's an example of an opening statement with specific things you should try to include.

opening statement example on resume

Other types of opening statements (what not to do)

There are two other types of statements that were popular a few decades ago — an objective and an offering statement. We've just included them here for completeness and to show you the formats you should not be using.

  • Resume objective : This style of opening statement is generally used to show recruiters your enthusiasm for the role. An example might sound like this: Example: Searching for dynamic marketing position in a fast-paced , modern company where I can utilize my organizational, creative, and project management skills to drive growth in digital markets. Objective-style opening statements typically include statements such as: “Looking for a position where I can grow and gain experience in XYZ” or “Looking for a job where I can use my skills to help a company meet targets and increase revenue.”   Objective opening statements are outdated and unnecessary, so don't include this on your resume.
  • Resume offering statement : A resume offering is kind of like a sales pitch, focusing on the value you can bring to an employer. Unlike a standard resume summary, an offering statement focuses on what you will do, not on what you have done. It might look something like this: Example: I will increase engagement on your company's social media channels by developing a strong brand voice and reaching out to key influencers within the [industry] sphere.

How to write a resume opening statement

  • Title your opening statement (optional).
  • Lead with the job title. If you're applying for Marketing Director roles, that's how you should describe yourself.
  • Describe the scope of your experience.
  • Mention 2-3 key skills or accomplishments that match the job description.
  • Include metrics to quantify your achievements.
  • Include any specific highlights from your resume that show why you’d be a great fit for the position.
  • Run your resume through a free resume checker to see how well your summary scores.

An opening statement template

Here's a template you can use for your resume opening statement:

[Executive] with experience leading [industry] businesses [describe size of businesses]. [Describe impactful element of role, with specific numbers]. Proven experience [mention 2-3 skills that are relevant to the job]. [Optional: Describe relevant educational certification/accomplishment, or one significant accomplishment in the format of Action Verb + Accomplishment + Metric].

Resume opening statement examples

Here are some more examples of resume opening statements to get you started:

Example 1: Experienced / Senior-Level Job Seeker

Human Resources Manager with 15 years’ experience in human capital management, talent acquisition, and workforce administration, handling diverse employment processes for small to large companies. Saved over 50% of overall recruiting costs by structuring and implementing standardized policies in hiring and recruitment, compensation structures, benefits, and incentives. Proficient in delivering services in line with EEO, IRS, and labor laws.

Example 2: Mid-Level Job seeker

Data Entry Specialist with five years’ experience utilizing manual and digital skills to enter texts and numerical data from source documents into databases, spreadsheets, and word processing programs. Implemented regular quality control checks to analyze data and make corrections in real time-, enhanced data entry accuracy by 77%. Achieved $6,500 cost-savings in company expenditures by identifying consolidation opportunities during company bookkeeping.

Example 3: Senior-Level Job seeker

Marketing Executive with ten years' experience working at Fortune 500 companies. Results include: • Designed, executed , and optimized digital marketing campaign on Google's AdWords for $20B CPG company, yielding 20% ROI improvements • Optimized budget allocation of marketing spend of $10MM for technology startup

An effective resume opening statement needs to highlight your key skills, quantifiable achievements and any other experience/accomplishment that shows recruiters why you’re the best person for the job. A good way to find out if your resume does just that is to upload it to the tool below — it’ll give you a detailed analysis of your opening statement and suggestions for improvements.

When is an opening statement appropriate?

You might be asking yourself, “Does my resume need an opening statement?” and the answer is: Maybe. If you have 6 years of receptionist experience and you’re applying for another run-of-the-mill receptionist role, then your resume will speak for itself, and an opening statement runs the risk of taking up unnecessary space.

However, if you have 6 years of receptionist experience and you’re applying for a hotel manager position, then an opening statement is a great opportunity to sell yourself on this change of direction.

So, who should definitely include an opening statement on their resume? Let’s take a look.

You're changing careers

Like our receptionist-turned-manager above, changing jobs is one of the key moments when having an opening statement would be advantageous. This is the moment to explain how your past experiences—albeit in a different field—have actually given you the necessary skills to succeed in this new position.

Here's an example of a career changer resume summary:

Ex-Head Receptionist for XYZ Firm transitioning into Hotel Manager position. Previous experience in managing a team, organizing and overseeing large company events including planning menus and contacting caterers, handling finances and administrative records, and ensuring health and safety standards remain up-to-date.

Here's how an opening statement might look on your resume - it uses another example:

Example of a career changer opening statement on a resume

More information: Resume summary advice for career-changers

The employer is looking for a specific skill

Sometimes a job will require a very technical or unique skill which you possess, but which might not come out otherwise in your resume. This can include something like speaking a foreign language , or having a certain type of driving license, or being proficient in a certain type of machinery or computer program. Here's an example:

Native Turkish speaker with experience working in Marketing for an international company. Available to travel and work remotely. Valid Turkish and USA passport.

By including this skill in the opening statement of your resume, you are ensuring that the recruiter will see it immediately, and know that you are the perfect fit for the position. If there are certain keywords that the job description requires that you haven't included anywhere else in your resume, feel free to include them in your opening statement.

If you’re not sure which keywords and technical skills are relevant to the job you’re applying for, use the skills search tool below to find the right ones.

More information: How to ensure your resume gets past automated resume screeners

You have many, many years of experience

If your resume spans 20 years and seems to go on forever, then this is your opportunity to distill everything into a bite-sized paragraph, to keep the recruiter from missing something important. You want to bring forward your best accomplishments and key experiences, especially in relation to the job description. Don’t assume that something buried in your job description from three years ago is going to jump out at the reader—make it front and center like this:

Stagehand with 15+ years experience, especially familiar with setting up pyro-technics while complying with industry-specific health and safety guidelines. Accomplishments include: -  Set up X that led to Y result … - Earned expedited promotion in less than 2 years

And here's how an opening statement for someone with a lot of experience might look on a resume:

Example of resume opening statement

To highlight recent accomplishments in a relevant field

An opening statement is a great moment to draw the recruiter’s attention to how something you personally accomplished has already benefited a previous employer or client. This can include Awards and Certifications, statistics on workflow improvement, recognition inside the workforce, or other impressive accomplishments . Here's an example:

Engaging customer service representative, recently named Top Agent at XYZ for three consecutive months. Led in-house employee training on Customer Engagement leading to a 60% decrease in negative customer reviews.

This is another example of a resume opening statement.

Opening statement for an executive

When don't you need an opening statement?

Your career trajectory is self-explanatory.

Most job seekers don't need to include an opening statement on their resume. If your work experience and educational background is in line with the kind of jobs you're now applying for, or if you're already in a similar role, your work history and accomplishments likely speak for themselves.

You're a student or recent graduate

As a student or recent grad, you're unlikely to have enough experience on your resume to warrant summarizing. Instead, make sure your education is listed front and center, along with industry-specific internships or other jobs showing your talents and abilities.

Additional tips for your resume's opening statement

1. use the same words as in the job description.

If you feel a little lost wondering what skills, qualities, or experiences to put in your opening statement, here’s some good news: the recruiter has done this work for you. If the job description says they’re looking for someone with an XYZ certification or experience with specific hard skills,  then don’t hesitate to put those words into your opening statement verbatim.

Online systems filtering resumes will often be scanning for wording which matches the job description, and this will keep your resume from slipping through the cracks. Find out what keywords to include on your resume with the Job Description Keyword Finder .

2. Eliminate buzzwords and vague terminology

Yes, we all know that you are “passionate about e-commerce,” but save that for your cover letter . Mention instead the statistics on how greatly you’ve improved sales for your clients, or draw attention to the way you’ve integrated a client’s social media platforms to their web-shops, to drive in traffic. We know you’re enthusiastic and hard-working, but this isn’t the place for it, and employers will generally skim over these empty and lackluster descriptions.

This is also called quantifying your resume , and if there's one article you should read before you send off your resume, it's that one.

3. Be concise.

Don’t list 10 relevant awards you won going back to a university competition in 2001 — pick one or two which are the most impressive. Make a list of all your relevant experiences and skills and then whittle it down to the very best, and let those shine.

4. Title your resume's opening statement (optional)

In general, if your opening statement is located at the top of your resume, then you don’t necessarily need to spell out what it is we’re looking at—it’s pretty clear. However, you definitely can add a title if you like, something like:

  • Profile, Professional Profile, Professional Statement
  • Introduction, Summary, About
  • Personal Statement, Personal Profile

5. Check your spelling

It goes without saying, but check and check again for any spelling or grammatical errors. Proofread it, proofread it again, get your mom, dad, or grandma to proofread it, read it aloud to your cat, and then run it through a spellchecker or online grammar resource if you’re still worried. This is your first impression to a potential employer, and you want to show them that you’re competent!

6. Get your resume's opening statement checked

Once you’ve added an opening statement to your resume, it’s time to see how well you’ve done. Head over to our free resume scanner , which evaluates your resume against key criteria, and see in real time how likely your resume is to catch an employer’s attention.

Resume opening statements: A crash course in jargon

If you've been looking for advice on how to write a resume opening statement — or summary — chances are you've run into a lot of unfamiliar phrases. Here's a brief explainer:

A resume profile or resume summary statement are different names for a resume summary and are often used interchangeably.

An executive resume summary or career highlights section are usually targeted toward people with an extensive career history or who are applying for high-level positions. These might include slightly more detail about your work experience, for example, standout accomplishments from early in your career that might otherwise not belong on a resume.

A resume objective or career objective is an alternative to a resume summary. Objectives are generally considered outdated compared to resume summaries but can be useful in very limited circumstances (often for people very early in their careers or without any relevant experience).

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opening statement example on resume

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opening statement example on resume

Cover Letters and Resume Samples

25 Best Resume Opening Statement Examples

Crafting the perfect resume opening statement can set you apart from the competition right from the start. It’s your first opportunity to make a strong impression and capture the attention of hiring managers.

An impactful opening statement is concise, targeted, and highlights your most relevant experiences and skills tailored to the job you are applying for.

In this guide, we have compiled 25 best opening statement examples that are designed to help you start your resume with confidence.

These examples will assist you in crafting compelling resume introductions that allure and engage potential employers.

Opening Statement Examples for Resumes Banner

25 Best Opening Statement Examples for Resumes

1. Enthusiastic professional with a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence in all tasks completed.

2. Adaptive and versatile with the ability to tackle new challenges and contribute positively in any work environment.

3. Detail-oriented individual with exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple tasks effectively.

4. Proactive team player striving for continuous improvement and collaborative success in all projects.

5. Motivated achiever with a history of exceeding goals and delivering measurable results.

6. Personable and effective communicator skilled in building meaningful professional relationships.

7. Resourceful problem solver who excels at understanding complex issues and implementing effective solutions.

8. Dedicated to professional development and continually seeking opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

9. Strategic thinker with a natural talent for planning and implementing initiatives that enhance business performance.

10. Reliable and punctual with a track record of accomplishing tasks on time and with utmost quality.

11. Creative innovator willing to explore new ways to achieve better outcomes in diverse settings.

12. Customer service-focused professional adept at delivering high levels of client satisfaction and loyalty.

13. Goal-oriented with the drive to exceed professional and personal objectives.

14. Analytical thinker with strong critical thinking skills, useful for problem solving and decision making.

15. Quality-driven with a consistent record of upholding and complying with standards and procedures.

16. Energetic and driven ready to bring high levels of enthusiasm to any role.

17. Tech-savvy with a proficiency in various software and technology platforms relevant to modern workplaces.

18. Experienced in conflict resolution , skilled in handling disputes and promoting a harmonious workplace.

19. Culturally competent with the ability to navigate and respect diverse environments and individuals.

20. Organizational expert skilled in managing resources and streamlining operations to boost efficiency.

21. Skilled communicator capable of effectively articulating ideas and adapting messages for various audiences.

22. Results-focused , with a track record of contributing to team outcomes and organizational goals.

23. Dependable team member who can be relied upon to complete projects or tasks reliably and accurately.

24. Flexible professional capable of adapting to evolving industries and learning new roles quickly.

25. Ethical and integrity-driven , ensuring transparency and honesty in all professional dealings.

These versatile introductory statements are designed to provide an adaptable foundation for resumes across various fields, subtly tuned to emphasize reliability, adaptability, and a strong work ethic.

Reader Ratings and Reviews

Below are some of the ratings and reviews from our readers who have found this guide helpful in crafting their resume opening statements:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “These examples were exactly what I needed! They helped me create a compelling introduction for my resume.” – Jane D.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Clear and concise. This guide offers an excellent selection of opening statements that can be easily tailored.” – Michael S.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Very useful, but I wish there were more examples for specific job roles.” – Priya R.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Loved the variety of statements. They covered a broad range of skills and professions.” – Ali K.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “The opening statements are great, but including a few more industry-specific examples would be even better.” – Carlos F.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “This guide made starting my resume so much easier! Highly recommended.” – Sophie M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Extremely helpful resource. I felt confident about my resume after using these examples.” – Victor L.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Good collection, but a section on how to customize these statements would be useful.” – Emily T.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Fantastic resource! It really helped me stand out in my job application.” – Derek B.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – “Comprehensive and versatile. It offered exactly what I needed to enhance my resume.” – Laura P.

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27 Great Resume Summary Examples to Get Hired

20 min read · Updated on August 06, 2024

Marsha Hebert

Your resume summary is the first impression you make on potential employers, so it's crucial to get it right

In this article, you'll learn how to write the ultimate resume summary that will grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. You'll discover what makes a good summary and what to avoid, as well as how to sell yourself effectively to potential employers.

You may be wondering: what exactly is a resume summary and how do I write one? We'll answer these questions and provide examples of professional summaries for various industries.

By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create a standout resume summary that will help you to land your dream job.

What is a resume summary?

To understand a resume summary, it's important to understand the challenge that good summaries are designed to overcome. Employers who are looking for new hires often need to compare many dozens or even hundreds of resumes to find the best candidates for the job. Few hiring personnel have the time needed to thoroughly examine every single resume that they receive.

Instead, employers typically spend no more than five or six seconds scanning any given resume. If a resume manages to capture their interest in those few seconds, they'll take the time to read it in greater detail. 

However, if your resume doesn't grab their attention, it's likely to be rejected without any further examination. So, the challenge is to find a way to quickly earn the reader's interest and inspire them to read the rest of the document.

That's where your resume summary comes into play. As you'll see from our resume summary examples, a good summary is the resume equivalent of a salesperson's elevator pitch. 

This brief statement should highlight your experience and job title, one or two key skills, and a couple of your most prominent achievements. When your summary is crafted well, it will provide the employer with a quick overview of your potential value as a new hire.

Once you've written your summary, you should place it right after your contact information and resume headline , so that it's the first thing employers see. If you've done your job properly, that summary will be compelling enough to make the reader want to learn more about the type of value you can bring to the job.

How should you start a resume summary?

After your headline, you should include a brief opening statement that summarizes who you are. This statement should be concise and compelling, and it should clearly communicate your unique value proposition. Here are some examples of strong opening statements:

Innovative Marketing Manager with over five years of experience in developing and executing successful campaigns for Fortune 500 companies

Results-driven Sales Executive with a proven track record of exceeding revenue targets and building strong client relationships

Skilled Customer Service Representative with expertise in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and communication

Tips for writing a resume summary

To make sure you get your summary spot on, follow our top tips:

Be specific

When writing a resume summary, it's essential to be specific and quantify your achievements wherever possible. Instead of saying, "Experienced marketing professional," try saying, "Experienced marketing professional with expertise in managing successful social media campaigns, resulting in increases of up to 30% in website traffic."

This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

Reflect on your career

When it comes to writing a strong resume summary, you should engage in some self-reflection. Before putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), take some time to think about your key skills, experiences, and achievements. This will help you to identify the most important information to include in your summary. Review your past roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments, and think about how they relate to the job you're applying for. Ask yourself:

What have I achieved in my career?

What skills have I developed?

What makes me stand out from other applicants?

Identify your key skills

One of the most important things to include in your resume summary is your key skills. These are the abilities that set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your value to potential employers. Begin by making a list of your top skills, then prioritize them based on relevance to the job you're applying for.

Highlight your relevant experiences

Next, think about relevant experiences that you can include in your summary. This includes any previous jobs or internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that have given you valuable experience. Consider what you've learned and achieved in each role and how that relates to the job you're applying for.

You should focus on what is most relevant to your target job. Here are some examples:

Proven ability to increase sales revenue by 20% year on year

Expertise in project management and team leadership

Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365

Confident working with a diverse range of clients and stakeholders

Keep it concise

Remember, your resume summary should be concise and to the point. Stick to the most important information and avoid filler words or irrelevant details. A good rule of thumb is to keep your summary to 3-5 sentences.

Use action verbs

When describing your experiences and achievements, use strong action verbs and adverbs to convey a sense of accomplishment and momentum. For example, instead of saying, "Responsible for managing social media accounts," say, "Successfully manages social media accounts."

Quantify your achievements

Wherever possible, use numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements. This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers. For example, instead of saying, "Helped to increase sales," say, "Helped to increase sales by 20% in the first year."

Tailor it to the job

Make sure your resume summary is tailored to the job you're applying for. This means highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Look at the job description and identify the key requirements, and then make sure your summary addresses these points.

Professional resume summary examples

Since there's nothing quite like seeing an example of a great summary, we've compiled twenty-seven great resume summary examples that you can use as inspirational templates for your own perfect resume . Below, you'll find summary examples for a variety of different job roles, including:

Customer Service Representative

Sales Representative

Marketing Manager

Project Manager

Software Developer

Human Resources Manager

Graphic Designer

Registered Nurse

Financial Analyst

Administrative Assistant

Data Entry Clerk 

Business Analyst

Operations Manager 

Mental Health Counselor

High School Teacher

Event Manager

Digital Marketing Manager

Content Marketer

SEO Specialist

Bank Teller

Software Support Specialist

Data Scientist

Dental Assistant

1.     Customer Service Representative resume summary example

"Highly motivated Customer Service Representative with 5 years of experience in delivering service excellence. Skilled in conflict resolution and problem-solving, resulting in a 95% customer satisfaction rate. Proven ability to multitask in fast-paced environments while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience and skills while also showcasing their relevant achievements in ensuring customer satisfaction. It mentions how much experience they have and calls out a measurable success.

2.     Sales Representative resume summary example

"Dynamic Sales Representative with a track record of exceeding sales quotas by 20%+. Proficient in consultative sales techniques and relationship building. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills with the ability to close deals."

Why it works : This summary provides a quantifiable achievement to show the candidate's success in their previous sales roles while also highlighting their key skills in relationship building and communication.

3.     Marketing Manager resume summary example

"Strategic Marketing Manager with 7+ years of experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns across multiple channels. Skilled in market research and analysis, campaign optimization, and team leadership. Proven track record of driving revenue growth and increasing brand awareness."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's experience and leadership skills while also showcasing their ability to drive results through successful marketing campaigns. The candidate has also demonstrated their ability to grow revenues and raise brand awareness.

4.     Project Manager resume summary example

"Accomplished Project Manager, with confidence in leading cross-functional teams and managing project timelines, budgets, and resources. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's extensive project management experience and emphasizes their ability to successfully deliver projects while working with multiple stakeholders.

5.     Software Developer resume summary example

"Innovative Software Developer with 5+ years of experience in designing, developing, and implementing complex software applications. Skilled in programming languages including Java, Python, and C++. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in Agile environments to deliver high-quality code on time."

Why it works : This job seeker has taken the time to highlight some of the technical skills they possess, while emphasizing their ability to work in Agile environments. They also call attention to the fact that they can take a software development project from design to implementation.

6.     Human Resources Manager resume summary example

"Experienced Human Resources Manager specializing in talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management. Skilled in developing and implementing HR policies and procedures that align with business objectives and values. Proven track record of building and managing high-performing teams."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience in various HR functions and emphasizes their ability to build and manage teams. It also shows that they can perform managerial functions like developing policies and procedures.

7.     Graphic Designer resume summary example

"Creative Graphic Designer with particular expertise in developing and executing visually stunning designs for print and digital media. Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud, with a focus on typography and layout. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously."

Why it works : This summary works well because it showcases their technical skills and experience while also emphasizing creativity and an ability to work collaboratively.

8.     Registered Nurse resume summary example

"Compassionate Registered Nurse with over 10 years' experience in providing high-quality patient care. Skilled at patient assessment, medication administration, and treatment plan development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with patients and their families."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's clinical and patient care experience and highlights their key nursing and interpersonal skills.

9.     Financial Analyst resume summary example

“Detail-oriented Financial Analyst with a strong background in financial modeling, data analysis, and forecasting. Combines advanced Excel skills with the ability to create and manage financial reports. Able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.”

Why it works : This summary showcases the applicant's specific skills and experience in financial analysis and highlights their proficiency in Excel, a crucial tool for the role.

10.  Administrative Assistant resume summary example

“Skilled Administrative Assistant with 8 years of experience in administrative support and office administration. Resilient, detail-oriented, and able to work under extreme pressure in a team environment. Excellent interpersonal, client management, and interdepartmental liaison skills. Committed to successful management of multiple simultaneous projects, strict adherence to deadline requirements, and accurate maintenance of schedules, meeting obligations, and records.”

Why it works : An Administrative Assistant wears many hats and experiences many challenges. This resume summary covers a lot of ground to demonstrate that the candidate understands those obstacles and knows how to overcome them.

11.  Data Entry Clerk resume summary example

“Task-driven and results-oriented professional with more than 10 years of experience in data entry, project coordination, and customer service. Uses interpersonal skills including effective communication to build rapport and positive relations with customers, gather vital information, and ensure rapid and accurate entry of data into designated software programs.”

Why it works : This resume summary is effective because it gets right to the heart of the job: dealing with customers and entering data into databases. The candidate also emphasizes their results-focused mindset, project skills, and key soft skills.

12.  Business Analyst resume summary example

“Results-driven Business Analyst with a proven record in expanding profitability by 55% in the retail industry.  Confident carrying out data-focused analysis that provides key insights and recommendations for growth strategies. Strong interpersonal and team building skills, innovative approach to problem-solving , and resolute commitment to efficiency and productivity.”

Why it works : Business analysis is all about using data and research to deliver key insights that result in improved operations and greater business success. This summary hits all the right notes as it focuses on key skills, a solutions-oriented mindset, and notable achievements that reflect real value for employers.

13.  Operations Manager resume summary example

“Results-oriented Operations Manager with more than 10 years of supervisory experience in high-level operational environments. Adept at coordinating both large and small teams, outside consultants, and mid-level management personnel. Successfully introduced Lean manufacturing principles that reduced costs by 32% via waste elimination and process revitalization.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary emphasizes key skills that the employer wants to see in any managerial candidate, while also showcasing their knowledge of best operational practices and a commitment to cost reduction.

14.  Mental Health Counselor resume summary example

“Compassionate Mental Health Counselor with more than a decade of experience addressing mental health issues and behavioral concerns. Proven success in both individual and group counseling environments, assisting clients in gaining insight and understanding of their unique conditions. Specialized focus on working with young adults and families, with an emphasis on addressing substance abuse root causes and other social factors involved in mental health.”

Why it works : This resume summary is notable for citing important skills like empathy and compassion. It also focuses attention on the candidate's experience in dealing with common mental health concerns and hints at their preferred approach to assisting patients.

15.  High School Teacher resume summary example

“Dynamic high school teacher with 12 years of experience developing approved curricula for more than 500 students in grades 9-12. Proven track record of helping students to achieve a 98% passing rate in both Western Civilization and World History instruction. Actively engaged in every aspect of education, at the district, local, and parent-teacher level.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary highlights their vast experience, while illustrating their success in ensuring that their students learn what they need to know to pass the class. They also demonstrate their commitment to the educational process by highlighting their involvement in every area of education.

16.  Accountant resume summary example

“Diligent and detail-oriented CPA with seven years of experience in accounting, process improvement, and problem-solving. Skilled at identifying inefficiencies and using reporting to offer insights that can guide employers to better practices and greater profitability. At XYZ Corp., identified labor usage inefficiency that motivated management to introduce new scheduling that eliminated $300,000 in labor waste.”

Why it works : In addition to highlighting a wide range of valuable skills, this candidate also focused on a quantifiable achievement that illustrates real value. This type of summary would certainly capture a hiring manager's attention and make them want to read more!

17.  Event Manager resume summary example

“Resilient and creative Event Manager with 6 years of corporate experience. Detail-oriented perfectionist with experience in project management, team leadership, and customer relations. Successfully organized and executed more than 40 major business conferences, hosting thousands of guests. Major clients have included three Fortune 500 firms with multi-million-dollar event budgets.

Why it works : As Event Managers go, this one has certainly made the rounds. That summary of achievements highlights their ability to manage even large-scale events, dealing with every aspect of the project. How could a serious hiring manager not want to learn more about this candidate?

18.  IT Manager resume summary example

“Dedicated IT Manager with significant experience in an innovative and growing tech firm. Skilled leader with experience in systems analysis, database architecture, problem-solving, and troubleshooting. Superior client satisfaction rate of more than 99%. Created and implemented IT troubleshooting process that reduced internal client service time by 30%.”

Why it works : This IT professional focuses attention on their key leadership skills , while also mentioning the hard skills that any hiring manager is likely to be looking for. There's also a nice nod to their history of satisfying clients, as well as a notable and measurable achievement.

19.  Product Designer resume summary example

“Innovative Design Engineer with 5 years of experience in the development of products and packages. Skilled in market research, brand development and alignment, and design elements. Led team of seventeen Designers in the creation of industrial products that yielded $20 million in sales in the first month after launch.”

Why it works : This resume summary uses some important keywords, action verbs, and descriptive language to describe the candidate's key skills and experiences. It also cites an impressive product design achievement, along with real numbers that showcase value.

20.  Content Marketer resume summary example

“Creative marketing professional with 7 years' experience as a Content Marketer. Skilled writer who understands how written communication empowers business growth and expansion. Expertise in development of compelling content that drives activities across multiple media channels. Adaptable , detail-oriented, and focused on a brand-building approach to content strategy that drives real results. Developed a cross-platform content strategy that boosted sales conversion rates by 37%.

Why it works : This Content Marketer focuses on their key skills and keen insights into how content impacts business profitability. They even included a measurable result that demonstrates their focus on adding value to their employer's bottom line.

21.  SEO Specialist resume summary example

“Results-focused SEO expert with 6 years of experience in keyword mastery, the promotion of sustainable content, and growing organic website search engine rankings. Proven track record of SEO success, using content development and link outreach to expand website traffic activity from 10,000 daily visitors to more than 2,000,000 per year.”

Why it works : Many hiring managers may not fully understand SEO, but they will understand the need to get more eyes on their digital content. This candidate speaks to that need by focusing on website rankings, content, and overall web traffic - while including a quantifiable achievement that demonstrates their ability to make things happen.

22.  Copywriter resume summary example

“Website Copywriter with 5 years of experience in developing content that creates real conversions. Cross-channel expertise including website content, advertising, newsletters, press releases, email, and podcast / video scripts. Proven track record of increasing social traffic by 36% and driving a 22% boost in landing page conversions.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary is focused not only on the type of things they write, but how those content pieces directly contribute to the company's online presence and sales conversion rate. This illustrates the writer's understanding of how their work aligns with their employer's business needs and goals.

23.  Bank Teller resume summary example

“Empathetic and personable Bank Teller with more than 4 years of experience in client interactions at First Bank. Detail-oriented customer management approach, focused on superior customer experiences and client retention. Strict adherence to bank policy, including safety deposit guidelines, customer account security, and due diligence. Efficiently and effectively processed more than 200 client account interactions each day.”

Why it works : For a Bank Teller, much of the role's value lies in the employee's ability to serve as the face of the branch. This summary is effective because it showcases the Teller's knowledge of bank procedures, while also highlighting their commitment to creating an excellent customer experience.

24.  Software Support Specialist resume summary example

“Problem-solving Software Support Specialist with 8 years of experience in customer-facing user assistance. Provided key problem resolution services for hundreds of customers, with a focus on maximizing their satisfaction with the company to increase loyalty and retention. Experienced in both customer and B2B interactions, with a specialized talent for explaining technical problems in language that is easily understood by the average layperson.”

Why it works : This resume summary focuses not only on the candidate's specialized skills in solving computer issues, but also highlights their ability to simplify their explanations to customers.

25.  Data Scientist resume summary example

“Committed Data Scientist focused on analytical insights that can drive company growth and development. More than eight years of experience providing data-driven analysis to Fortune 500 executives, based on comprehensive statistical models and detailed historical data patterns. Successfully provided insights and recommendations used to increase company profits by 32% over a two-year period.”

Why it works : Data science may not seem like the most exciting field, but hiring managers are always on the hunt for candidates who understand why data matters. This candidate's focus on providing insights that can translate into real value for the employer is something that is likely to earn a hiring manager's interest.

26.  Dental Assistant resume summary example

“Dental Assistant with 5 years of experience with patient preparation, processing, and administrative support. Keen attention to detail and a commitment to dental health and aesthetics. Skilled in dental impressions, hands-on assistance during procedures, x-rays, and record maintenance. Fully committed to developing rapport with patients that creates a welcoming environment and a joyful experience.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary not only highlights key Dental Assistant requirements, but also conveys their personal approach to teamwork and patient care.

27.  Architect resume summary example

“Creative Architect experienced in high-end architectural design and development oversight. Ten years of proven success in creating sustainable designs that earn rave reviews and commendations from clients. Skilled in adapting to new challenges and working under pressure to achieve every client's vision. Consistently produces designs and project plans that come in on time and under budget, at 10%-30% less cost than industry competitors.”

Why it works : In this summary, the candidate highlights key skills that employers will want to see, while also emphasizing quantifiable results that demonstrate competitive value for the employer. They also showcase their ability to not only design architectural structures but to do so with a conscious awareness of critical factors like budgetary concerns, deadlines, sustainability and market competition.

Bonus: how to write a resume summary if you have no experience

Of course, it's also important to know how to write a resume summary if you have no experience. Here's a quick resume summary example that you can adapt if you are just entering the job market:

“Recent Marketing graduate, seeking an entry-level position to kickstart a career in the field. Demonstrated strong leadership and teamwork skills gained through involvement in various extracurricular activities, including volunteering at local events and leading group projects. Proficient in Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud. Passionate about using marketing strategies to create engaging content and drive brand awareness.”

Why it works: This summary works because it highlights the candidate's relevant hard and soft skills and qualifications, even though they don't have direct career experience. The use of action words such as "demonstrated" and "proficient" shows the candidate's confidence in their abilities, which can be attractive to potential employers, showcasing the candidate's potential for success in an entry-level marketing role.

Key takeaways

A well-written resume summary can make a significant impact on a job application. A good summary should highlight relevant skills and experiences, use clear and concise language, and avoid unnecessary information. Feel free to customize any of the resume summary examples we've provided to help ensure that your resume captures the attention of potential employers.

We know it can be difficult to condense a whole career full of skills and achievements into a paragraph of only a few sentences. If you're unsure about the document you've crafted, why not send it for a free resume review by our team of expert resume writers? 

Recommended reading:

Ask Amanda: How Are a Resume Objective and a Resume Summary Different?

How to Write a Standout Career Summary

Business Acumen: What It Is and How You Can Showcase It On Your Resume

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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How to Write a Resume Personal Statement

Rolf Bax

What is a resume personal statement?

A resume personal statement expresses who you are, where you’ve been, and sometimes where you plan to go next right at the top of your resume.

Everyone has different circumstances, so the personal statement helps to orient a potential future boss in terms of what they are about to read in the resume. Think about what you would like to share that matters to you. This space is particularly useful if you are changing industries , coming back in to the employment market or looking for a promotion. Your shop window starts here. The personal statement may be the only thing than an employer reads.

The resume personal statement hooks in a reader, influencing them to read more. So, how do you write a resume personal statement that is both natural and grabs an employer’s attention? Offer them a brief insight into who you are and why you would be a fantastic hire. So what do you write in a personal statement for a job?

This guide will cover:

  • The basic formatting of a personal statement: How to tailor your personal statement to give you a competitive advantage
  • Personal statement examples you should (and shouldn’t) use
  • Practical steps for getting started on your resume personal statement

The personal statement format

The personal statement is a short paragraph that sits right below your contact information at the top of a resume . It sums up your experience, goals and skills with confidence. Think of your resume’s personal statement like an extended tagline for your career. A resume personal statement should include:

  • Between 50 and 200 words in 3 - 4 sentences
  • Your title or function, for example “Junior developer” or “Passionate hospitality manager”
  • An opening hook
  • Soft skills and hard skills
  • Impressive facts and stats
  • Your short and/or long-term goals
  • Job-specific slant for the position you’re applying to

This may seem like a lot to cram into 200 words but perfecting your elevator pitch shows that you have a firm grasp of why your experience, goals, and skills make you the perfect fit for the job. Go all out to make this as fitting for each role as possible. Too often candidates come up with what they see as the perfect introduction to them and forget about how a hiring manager for each specific role might read it. Be flexible with the personal statement. It might not present the very best version of you - it should present the best version of you for this particular role.

This brief introduction is only a short piece of text, it is not disruptive and in many cases even serves as a welcome addition to what is otherwise a dry and impersonal document. It should be clear to you by now how we feel about the personal statement: Include it, especially because it allows you that bit of creativity that may make all the difference. Adopt a conversational tone and consider using the first person for these few lines. Third person (past tense) is standard for resumes, but if you want to go personal, this is where to do it.

How do I start my personal statement? How do you not start a personal statement? Even with a personal statement of 3-4 lines, sometimes the first sentence is the hardest. Even the first few words can have a disproportionate effect on how your personal statement is viewed. Your starting "hook" should make your fit with the role clear and specific. Use an example that is as unique to you as possible - you have to make your future employer sit up and pay attention. The first word of your personal statement should never be "I" - a great resume explores the potential of a common partnership and should not be a uni-directional monologue.

Align your resume’s personal statement with the job description

The hiring manager delicately chose every word in their job description. Gather clues from its tone, which skills they highlight, and any hints that point toward their dream employee. One of the top resume tips from HR managers is to include relevant keywords specific to the job posting itself as well as the actual wording of the job title .

What would this job description look like in 3 - 4 sentences? What keywords, skills, and tone would the job description have?

While still sticking to the facts about who you are and your experiences, your resume personal statement should highlight as many similarities with the job description as possible. When the hiring manager reads the first few sentences in your resume, they feel like you are exactly the person they were describing when they wrote the job description.

Position of the personal statement

Recruiters still prefer to see a candidate's personal details at the top (or running along a column on either side) of the resumes that cross their desk. This allows them to quickly search through the resumes that Applicant Tracking Systems have sorted into their virtual “yes” pile. You do not want your (relatively modern) personal statement to get in the way of this tradition. 

The best place to put your statement is after your personal details (if they are at the top) and before your employment history section. Remember that the length of your resume is important. If you have already been very selective and cannot possibly leave out any more information and if adding your personal statement means your resume spills over onto a third page, you may consider not including your statement for the position in question. This ensures you comply with the unwritten rule that a resume should not be longer than two pages.

What is a good personal statement length? 200 words is the maximum suggested length, but if you go with one powerful sentence that you want the hiring manager to remember for the rest of the interview process, then why not? Less is more, but you have to be confident in your application to go with this option.

Plan to write your resume personal statement last

Instead of getting stuck at the beginning trying to write the perfect statement, skip this section and jump right into your employment history first. Once you’ve added your relevant work experiences , take a look at your keywords, phrases and skills from your past positions.

Your complete work history and the job description for the job you want are the foundations for your personal statement. By writing your resume personal statement last, it should be easier to get started once you have the right inspiration.

It might be the case that you leave a certain number of lines for the personal statement on your resume and write an individual statement for each role. You will often have a public version of your resume that is accessible on job boards (etc), so there should still be an "ideal" personal statement version.

How do I write a resume from scratch? While it is good advice to write the resume personal statement after your have written the resume itself (giving your brain a chance to ponder your true highlights), starting writing a resume is a mammoth task in itself. There are many useful pieces of advice when sitting down to write a resume, but for me, the key is to think about the reflecting the combination of what you are good at, what you enjoy and how those things will contribute to the direction of your career. For sure, be honest about your experience, but there has to be a creative flavour of ensuring that your past adequately reflects where you want to go.

Check out resume personal statement examples

Before you dive into writing, get a sense for different rhythms and layouts by checking these resume personal statement examples. How do you write a good personal statement?

Let's start with the basics. Since every person is unique, all personal statements should be unique too. You should, therefore, resist the urge to (largely) copy someone else's existing statement. This is the only spot on your resume to let your voice be heard, so try to write something that would prompt a friend to exclaim, “That sounds like something you’d say!” while, of course, keeping it professional.

Example. Innovative Executive Assistant with 10+ years of experience with global financial firm assisting a team of three C-Level directors. Expertly coordinate travel, manage large-scale expense reports, and streamline communication and calendars across departments..Seeking an Executive Assistant role with the Resume.io team to expand my office management career and thrive in an environment that requires independent problem-solving skills and focus under short deadlines.

The example above does the following things:

  • States their title in the first sentence
  • Includes specifics such as team size and duties
  • Succinctly sums up major responsibilities and skills
  • Highlights hard skills —experience arranging travel and expense reports—as well as soft skills —grace under pressure, attention to detail and communication.
  • Specifically tailors the final statement with the company and/or job description

Here are a few more resume personal statement examples:

Experienced Digital Marketing Manager with five years of expertise in heading up a global firm. Increased inbound leads by 500% and raised online sales from 100,000 annually to over 2 million in a three-year period. Looking to grow career by applying skills to the Resume.io marketing team.

Straight to the point and accomplishment focused, without the use of “I”. Now let’s look at a less effective example:

I have worked as a Digital Marketing Manager for five years. During this time I have been an important and hard-working member of the team and showed my ability to work under pressure to deliver on company targets. I am looking to bring my skills to a new role in digital marketing.

Generic and ignores accomplishments. Also, too many uses of “I” in a passive voice.

Next is an example of a personal statement that focuses more on career objectives . A career objective can be used as a way to get across your skills and experience, without the personal bit. It’s a good option if you’re an entry-level candidate or college graduate without a lot of experience in the industry you’re applying for. The idea is, because you don’t have the relevant experience to talk about, you pull skills and experience from other areas of your resume so you can show you have what it takes.

Keep your career objective brief — 2-3 sentences max — following the same rules as the personal statement.

Content writer with three years' experience in a large e-commerce company. Delivered content that grew brand social presence to over 700,000 across three channels and improved email open rates by 48%. Looking to further career by joining the Resume.io as an SEO Executive.

See how it uses transferable skills? Combining these with numbers makes them all the more impressive.

And a less effective resume personal statement example:

I am a content writer looking to secure a role as an SEO Executive. While I have no experience in this field and am a dedicated individual and a keen learner. My enjoyment of how search engines work will help me excel in your company.

There’s not enough here to capture attention and it doesn’t sell transferable skills. Whichever type of opening statement you go for, if you have numbers to show, make them count.

Writing your personal profile resume

Always write the first draft of a personal profile resume without editing. Don’t worry about length or word choice in the first pass. Brag about yourself, be proud of your accomplishments , and add in all of your most impressive stats.

Some of the best writing happens without editing too soon, so don’t worry about sounding over the top or egotistical, that’s what editing your personal profile resume is for. If the goal is to get 3 - 4 perfect sentences, it’s likely your first draft will be closer to 6 - 8, maybe even longer. Then consider which parts are closest to helping you get the job and cull the rest. It might seem brutal, but brevity is critical at the top of your personal profile.

Polish your personal statement and experiment

Once you’ve narrowed your focus, use the following questions to help you review your work and edit your statement:

Is my first sentence clear and concise? The opening line should state your position and use strong, enthusiastic language to hook in the reader. It often includes years of experience as well.

Is it direct opposed to passive? A strong sense of self comes through in a personal statement. Instead of sentences that begin with “I believe I am…” or “I enjoy…” be bold. Get right to the point and take ownership of your skills .

Does it include objective information? For this one, try to get inside the hiring manager’s mind. If you were filling this role, what boxes would you need to check off? The second and third sentence often include specific skills, facts or figures to support this need.

Does it read naturally? Even with all these specifics, the statement should still be easy to understand and have a natural rhythm when read aloud. Cut out any jargon that acts as filler or that changes your tone. Formality may vary from company to company, but personal statements should always reflect the type of employee or person you are.

What are three tips for writing a personal statement?

  • Make sure that your personality comes across in the writing.
  • Quantify any accomplishments and include financials where possible.
  • If you are at a moment of career change, don't fail to mention your goals.

Common mistakes in personal statements

When writing your personal statement, beware of platitudes. These are clichéd expressions that have become meaningless from overuse. They induce recruiters to roll their eyes and move on to the next candidate. Think of such terms as “an administrative jack-of-all-trades” or “a cog in the wheel’ and being ready for a “new challenge.”  Definitely avoid this list of human resources’ most hated resume phrases. 

Try to be original in your choice of words and ask a friend or family member to take a critical look at your personal statement when you are done. By the way, you should always have someone proofread your entire resume when you think you are ready to send it.

Some people call their personal statements " resume objectives ." This is something else entirely. A resume objective is required when a candidate needs to project their hopes for their next role that differe from their previous experience a little. This objective can then be used to outline the motivations behind a career change and is also common with early-career professionals. 

Does a personal statement need a title? Some resume templates might call the opening statement a summary and others may exclude a description entirely. Either option is fine as employers are conditioned to expect a few lines at the to of a resume to serve as a headline for your job application.

What do employers expect from your resume opening statement?

Sometimes it is useful to consider job seeking activity from the point of view of the end hiring managers. External recruiters are important people to impress, but it is the employers that will be making the ultimate hiring decision. They will be reading lots of resumes, so what would they want to read in your resume opening statement?

  • They will want the resume opening statement to be written for them. When you are on the hunt for a new member of your professional family, an intensely personal connection is vital from the first lines.
  • They will expect a quantifiable context to your resume opening statement. Impressive words come easily when you really need a job, but backing them up with numbers to demonstrate their scale is less simple.
  • They will expect to be impressed. If you cannot impress a specific employer for a specific role with the first lines of your resume, then the role is almost certainly not for you. Nothing to shout about? Move on.

Key takeaways

Think of your CV personal statement as the first 2 minutes of an interview—whether on the phone or in person. The HR manager asks you to “tell me a little about yourself,” and you have a quick minute to set the tone for the rest of the conversation. Similarly, the CV personal statement should include:

  • A natural, yet professional CV tone that reflects your personality
  • The top reasons your experience makes you a unique fit for this position
  • Why this role aligns with your career plans
  • Facts and data on your CV that back up your earlier points

Crafting a personal statement for each role will cause some serious thought. What is your essential fit for the role that will make a hiring manager sit up and think "wow, I need to have them on my team?" What would you want to read if you were in their shoes. You will definitely have lots to say, but keep it simple and powerful.

One more good CV statement example:

Expert SEO copywriter with a decade of B2C and B2B experience across three industries. Versatile in writing social, website and long-form copy to convey each brand’s unique tone and message. I cultivated 15 new clients in two years and grew readership by over 200%. I am now seeking to expand my editing and content creation expertise in a Marketing Manager position.

Once you’ve mastered writing your CV personal statement, this clear sense of who you are and what you want will prepare you to pitch yourself during interviews.

Resume ATS optimization: How to build an ATS Friendly resume

15 Amazing Resume Summary Statement Examples for Job Seekers

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

opening statement example on resume

By Mike Simpson

Updated 6/9/2022.

opening statement example on resume

What is the best way to start my resume? How do I get the attention of the hiring manager? Is there something specific I should be doing? These are questions we have all asked ourselves at one point or another. Fortunately, there’s mainly one answer: use a resume summary statement.

So, how do you create an amazing professional summary for a resume? Well, looking at some outstanding resume summary examples is typically a good place to start. If you want to make sure your resume is in the best shape possible, here’s what you need to know about the resume summary statement.

Understanding the Resume Summary Statement

So, what exactly is a resume summary statement? Well, according to the folks at The Balance Careers :

“A resume summary statement is a brief list or a few sentences at the top of your resume (after your contact information) that highlights your qualifications for a job.” That’s a good way to look at it.

And, what about the purpose of a resume summary? Well, they go on to add that resume summaries allow “the person reviewing your resume… to view your most important attributes at a glance.” In the end, that’s really what it’s all about.

A resume summary statement is similar to an objective statement in that it is a quick way for a job seeker to catch a hiring manager’s attention by summarizing critical information in an easy-to-read format. Now, a “Resume Objective” and “Resume Summary Statement” are two very different things and should not be confused. However, they serve a similar purpose, acting as an introduction.

Resume statements essentially are just a few short, well-worded, well-targeted sentences that summarize your skills and experiences. Sometimes called “Qualification Summaries” or even just “Competencies,” these two or three sentences can, when done right, give you a real advantage in the hiring game.

You may be wondering, “Why do I need a resume summary when they can just read my application?” Well, mainly because hiring managers may receive dozens, if not hundreds, of resumes.

In the end, hiring managers don’t have time to read every application word-for-word. Instead, they skim key areas looking for the right details, giving each resume an average of just six to seven seconds of their time before making an initial determination.

Usually, the resume summary statement is a part they always read. It showcases the best of what you have to offer, giving them critical insights upfront. That’s why getting your professional summary for your resume right is essential.

How to Write a Great Resume Summary Statement

So, how do you write a great resume summary statement? Well, as with much of your job search, it all begins with research. You need to make sure that you’re maximizing your potential, so the more you know, the better.

The goal is to get your statement distilled down into two or three laser-focused sentences that the hiring manager will consider relevant. To make that happen, go back and look at the job you’re applying for and determine your target audience. Re-read the job description, keeping your eyes open for key phrases and words.

  • Who are they looking for?
  • What do they want that person to bring to the table? What value can they provide?
  • What would l look for in a hire if I were the one posting this job?

Once you identify those things, it’s time to figure out how you fit into them.

What are your top selling points? Find three or four things that define you as a professional, are unique to you, and involve skills you enjoy using. If you include things you’re good at but hate doing, you could find yourself only attracting interest on jobs that leave you stuck doing them again.

After that, see if you can identify any problems this position solves. Can you showcase value in that specific area?

As your summary starts to take shape, compare it to the job description and the company’s mission and values. How does your summary align with what the company is after? Keep rechecking as you adjust, ensuring it’s really on point by the time you’re done.

Now, there are also things you shouldn’t put in your statement. For example, proficiency in software that practically everyone knows – like Microsoft Office – isn’t ideal in your resume summary. Similarly, certain cliché adjectives, like ‘results-oriented,’ ‘hardworking,’ ‘innovative,’ and ‘motivated’ are also no-nos.

Now that we’ve looked at what to include and what NOT to include, it’s time to start writing your own resume summary examples.

Start out your statement by being specific! Make sure it’s tailored to not only the position but the company as well. Are you applying to five jobs? You should have five objective statements. Ten jobs? Ten statements, and so on.

Focus on how you’re a benefit to the company, not how the company can benefit you. Keep it valuable; make sure you point out what you bring to the table. Also, keep it short and sweet.

Finally, always open your statement with your title (or, for recent graduates, your degree earned). Why? Because you want to let whoever is reading the resume know at a glance exactly who they’re dealing with.

Remember, there are lots of people applying for these jobs, and the last thing you want to do is get lost in the shuffle. Plus, if the job is specifically looking for someone to fill a role and you’re already doing that role at another job, you’ve just ensured that the hiring managers take a second look at your resume!

Resume Summary Examples

Are you looking for more inspiration? Here are a few resume summary statement examples that you can use as a starting point.

Just remember, don’t use them verbatim. You want to tailor these statements to the needs of the company you are interviewing with, and you can’t do that if you use these word-for-word.

Still, these resume summary examples will get you moving in the right direction. Here are 15 examples of a professional summary for a resume, each aligned with different careers and various experience levels.

1. Newly-Minted Nursing Assistant

Certified nursing assistant with training in vital sign monitoring, patient examinations, wound dressing, patient records, and phlebotomy. Graduated at the top of the class, passing the exam with a score in the top 1%. Completed internship in a fast-paced, local clinic, offering exceptional patient care and consistently exceeding expectations.

2. Recent Engineering Graduate

Engineering Graduate with leadership training and experience with academic training at the University of Montana. Proven skills in project management, organization, and research with a background in office administration and organization. Able to provide employers with administrative support and professional communication skills.

3. Restaurant Shift Lead

Shift lead with 3+ years at a fast-paced, high-end dining restaurant with proven leadership capabilities. Experience overseeing teams of 12+ in a high-energy, customer-focused environment. Skilled at schedule management, conflict resolution, and adapting to ever-changing priorities.

4. Digital Marketing Professional

Digital marketing specialist with 2+ years of experience working at a high-volume firm focused on consumer food products. Skilled at creating content across several leading platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Helped launch TikTok for an emerging beverage brand, securing 10,000 followers in just three months. 

5. Administrative Office Manager

Current Administrative Office Manager. Versatile, reliable, and efficient with 8+ years of experience supporting managers and executives in high-paced environments. Diversified skills include client relations, human resources, recruiting, project management, and administrative support. Excellent phone and digital communication skills.

6. Call Center Representative

Call center representative with 4+ years of experience in a high-volume environment, handing upward of 100 contacts daily. Supported both sales and technical support departments, securing an average customer satisfaction rate of 92% across both areas.

7. IT Specialist Pivoting to New Field

Proven IT Specialist with experience in start-ups as well as established operations leveraging expertise in organization, computer networking, and problem-solving to provide exceptional user support and assistance in resolving conflict. Experience includes managing sensitive materials and providing after-hours support for clients.

8. Architectural Project Coordinator

Architectural Project Coordinator with over fifteen years of experience. Versatile, bilingual professional with management experience ranging in size from small private projects to full-scale multi-million-dollar high profile corporate construction projects. Ability to oversee and manage hundreds of individuals while ensuring timely completion of project deadlines, all while remaining on or under budget.

9. Recruiter

Recruiter with 8+ years of experience in a large industrial environment with fluctuating, seasonal needs. Organized and coordinated large-scale hiring events, securing 20 new hires for seasonal positions in just three days. Overall time-to-hire reduced by 56%, while new hire quality improved by 31%.

10. Sales Manager

Experienced sales manager in the retail industry with strengths in customer service, sales, and negotiations. Proven skills in marketing, advertising, product integration, and promotions. Successful in developing strategies that have resulted in an over 20% increase in new customers. Instrumental in developing an incentives rewards program with a repeat customer success rate of over 45%.

11. Warehouse Manager

Reliable warehouse manager with 12+ years of experience overseeing operations and supervising teams of 10 or more. Leadership, coaching, and delegation skills. Certified heavy equipment operator, including forklift and scissor lift.

12. Project Manager

Project Manager with 10+ years of experience specializing in web production, education publications, public outreach, and consumer packaging. Professional, creative, and flexible with proven analytical skills. Adept at researching and crafting award-winning marketing campaigns for a wide variety of clients and products.

13. Data Analyst

Data analyst with 6 years of experience providing data-driven insights, creating critical reports, and supporting strategic operational objectives. Adept at both written and verbal communication, including explaining complex technical information in a simplified manner. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Analytics.

14. Social Worker

Bilingual licensed social worker with more than 9 years of experience focused on geriatric care, serving as an advocate while providing counseling, coordinating care, and supporting families. Managed average caseload of 32 clients, collaborating with a multi-discipline team to ensure positive outcomes and provide holistic care.

15. Sales Department Executive

Sales executive with 11+ years of leadership experience. Rejuvenated underperforming department, boosting sales by 82% within 12 months. Strategic-minded and action-oriented, adept at finding scalable solutions designed to promote revenue growth and reduce expenditures.

Putting It All Together

So, there you have it. Use the tips and resume summary examples above to create the perfect start to your application. Just remember that the most important thing for you to do is spend the time researching the company you are interviewing with and tailor your summary to the company. That way, you can stand out as an exceptional candidate.

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In it you'll get word-for-word sample resume summaries covering a variety of positions you can use right away .

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opening statement example on resume

WTO / Legal / How to Write an Opening Statement (18 Best Examples)

How to Write an Opening Statement (18 Best Examples)

In a courtroom setting, an attorney usually makes an opening statement that outlines the facts about the case to the presiding judge and jurors. It is also known by alternative terms, for example, debate or mini-essay. The plaintiff, defendant, or their representative can present it. The plaintiff (the party who files the case and bears the burden of proof) presents the statement first, followed by the defense team. It sets the stage for the trial and helps the attorneys frame their arguments and evidence coherently and compellingly. It should serve as a road map for the trial or fact-finding proceeding.

The state of Illinois indicted Mr. Karl Carter for fraud. The defendant was awarded a tender to supply 1,000 hospital beds to Illinois General Hospital by October 31, 2022. The conditions were that three-quarters of payments amounting to $100,000 were to be paid before delivery and the remaining balance after completion of the project. As per the agreed-upon conditions, a substantial portion of the payment, totaling $100,000, was to be made before the delivery of the beds, with the remaining balance to be paid upon project completion. The initial payment was duly made, fulfilling our obligations. However, it has come to light that the defendant has failed to fulfill his end of the agreement. Only 400 beds were supplied, citing increased production and transportation costs. To compound matters, the defendant has audaciously demanded additional payment, contrary to the initial agreement. Such a demand is not only unjust but also a violation of the principles upon which this contract was formed. I am Harvey Buck, representing the Illinois healthcare procurement committee. I request that the court intervene and hold the defendant responsible for civil charges against them.

This article discusses an opening statement, its importance, and the basic information that should be included before a lawyer presents it in court. It also deliberates on tips for developing a compelling one and provides examples for that. 

Why is It Important in a Trial?

It holds great significance in legal proceedings, as it serves as the introduction to a case. Its primary purpose is to provide an overview of the case to the judge or jury, outlining the main arguments and evidence that will be presented. So, it is an integral component of any trial. 

Below are reasons why it is important in legal proceedings:

Establish the context for the trial

The opening statement introduces the parties to the legal proceeding, including the plaintiff, the defendant, and their representatives. It also introduces the nature and type of the case—civil or criminal. It is also an opportunity to create a positive impression on the jurors. 

Frames the issues

A well-crafted mini-essay should offer context to each party’s claims. This involves stating the issues at hand and providing an overview of factual evidence, background context, legal theories or arguments, and key details that will be presented to prove why their case is justified. 

Establishes credibility

The introductory statement is meant to demonstrate the attorney’s credibility by showing that they understand the legal reasoning behind their case and can present a strong argument. It should reflect the qualifications and competencies of the attorney outlined in their resume . Also, it is meant to gain the jurors’ trust and confidence if it can clearly demonstrate the argument from the client’s perspective. 

Provides a roadmap for the trial 

Lawyers use it to communicate the evidence that will be used and the format in which it will be presented. It can name the witnesses that will be called to the stand and any supporting documents that will be referenced. This may include extensive research and interviews to identify credible witnesses and facts about the case. Once the fact-finders understand the framework to follow, they can collect information throughout the proceeding and make the best decisions for each case. 

Increases persuasion

The debate should be adequately engaging to try and shape the jurors’ views and shift their stance to the best-case scenario for the client. An engaging statement has the following properties: clear, factual, narrative, and non-argumentative. The effectiveness of persuasion can significantly impact the overall trajectory of the case and contribute to a successful outcome for the client.

Lawyers may incorporate visual aids such as slides or images in it. According to research, visual aids increase jurors’ engagement and comprehension. Visual aids are efficient tools for persuading the jury and demonstrating how events occurred. However, the visual elements must be relevant to the case, simple, and easy to understand.

Free Templates

Opening declarations Template in word format

Opening Statement Vs. Closing Statement 

An opening sentence offers the attorney an opportunity to mention the theme of the dispute and which evidence and testimonies will be presented in support of the client’s argument. It aims to make it easier for the judge or jury to comprehend the relevance of any evidence presented to the overall dispute. 

Contrary to this, a closing statement allows counsel to present arguments on the merits of any evidence presented by both parties. It is given at the end of the trial to create a lasting impression. It may include hypothetical analogies, references to laws, key evidence, and comments on the witnesses’ credibility . Also, it can state the judgment that the counsel believes the court should make based on the evidence presented. Lastly, it can make a final appeal to the jury to favor the person being represented (the plaintiff or defendant).

Below are examples in different cases:

Criminal trial

Opening sentence example.

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, today we embark on a quest for truth and justice. The prosecution will present evidence that will demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant, Mr. John Roberts, committed the heinous crime he stands accused of. Through eyewitness testimonies, forensic analysis, and compelling evidence, we will reveal the sequence of events that led to the victim’s tragic death and the defendant’s direct involvement. You will hear from witnesses who saw the defendant at the scene of the crime, and experts who will shed light on the compelling physical evidence linking him to the murder. We ask you to keep an open mind and carefully evaluate the evidence presented, as we seek a verdict that reflects the truth and ensures justice for the victim and their grieving family.

Closing argument example

Members of the jury, you have heard the evidence, testimonies, and arguments presented throughout this trial. The facts have painted a clear and undeniable picture: the defendant, Mr. John Roberts, is guilty of the crime charged. The witnesses have bravely come forward and shared their accounts, their memories etched with the harrowing events they witnessed. The physical evidence, meticulously analyzed by experts, has left no room for doubt. The puzzle pieces fit together, revealing a chilling narrative of the defendant’s actions. It is now your solemn duty to deliver a verdict that upholds justice, that holds the defendant accountable for his choices and provides solace to the victim’s family. We urge you to render a verdict of guilty, for it is the only just outcome in light of the overwhelming evidence and the pursuit of truth.

Estate dispute case

Opening statement example.

Your Honor, esteemed members of the court, we are here today to address a grave injustice concerning the denial of our client’s rightful claim to the estate left behind by her late husband. Our client, as the surviving spouse, should rightfully inherit the assets amassed by her husband during his lifetime. We will present compelling evidence, including a legally binding will that unequivocally designates our client as the sole beneficiary. Our aim is to seek justice, honor the wishes of the deceased, and ensure that our client receives the inheritance she is entitled to.

Closing sentence example

Your Honor, members of the court, we have reached a critical point in this trial where the fate of our client’s rightful claim to the estate hangs in the balance. We have presented clear and compelling evidence, including a legally binding will that unambiguously designates our client as the sole beneficiary. We must honor the intentions of the deceased and provide our client with the financial security and peace of mind she deserves. We implore you to carefully consider the evidence presented and render a just decision that upholds our client’s rightful claim to the estate.

Civil plaintiff trial

Your Honor, esteemed members of the jury, today we bring before you a case that revolves around the fundamental principles of justice and accountability. Our client, [Plaintiff’s Name], has suffered significant harm and injustice at the hands of the defendant, [Defendant’s Name]. Through compelling evidence and expert testimonies, we will demonstrate that the defendant’s negligent actions have caused direct harm to our client, resulting in physical, emotional, and financial damages. We seek not only compensation for our client’s losses but also to ensure that the defendant is held accountable for their actions. We ask you to carefully consider the evidence presented and deliver a verdict that upholds the principles of justice and provides our clients with the restitution they deserve.

Your Honor, members of the jury, as we approach the conclusion of this trial, we urge you to reflect on the evidence presented and the significant harm our client has endured due to the defendant’s actions. Our client’s life has been irrevocably changed, and it is essential that justice is served. The evidence overwhelmingly supports our claim that the defendant’s negligence directly caused harm to our client, resulting in physical, emotional, and financial hardships. We implore you to stand on the side of justice, hold the defendant accountable for their actions, and award our client the compensation they deserve. By doing so, you will send a powerful message that negligent behavior will not go unchecked and the rights of innocent individuals will be protected under the law.

Child custody case

Your Honor, esteemed members of the court, today we come before you to address the critical issue of child custody in this case. Our client, [Client’s Name], firmly believes that the best interests of the child lie in their care. Through compelling evidence and testimonies, we will demonstrate that our client possesses the qualities, resources, and nurturing environment necessary to provide a stable and loving home for the child. We will present evidence that highlights the positive impact our client has had on the child’s well-being and development. It is our utmost priority to ensure the child’s safety, happiness, and overall welfare. We ask this honorable court to carefully consider the evidence and make a custody decision that serves the best interests of the child.

Your Honor, members of the court, as we conclude this child custody case, we ask you to reflect upon the evidence presented and the well-being of the child at the center of this matter. Our client has consistently demonstrated their love, devotion, and commitment to providing a stable and nurturing environment for the child. The evidence overwhelmingly supports the notion that our client is the best fit to assume primary custody and make decisions in the child’s best interests. It is crucial to consider the child’s emotional and developmental needs and ensure their continued well-being. We trust in this court’s ability to discern the truth and make a custody decision that safeguards the child’s future and promotes their happiness and growth. We urge you to grant our client the custody rights they rightfully deserve.

This infographic is about preparing an effective opening statement.

Anatomy of an Opening Statement: The Basic Information

An excellent initial sentence states what the attorney intends to prove, the framework to use, and events or facts supporting the client’s argument. It should be structured rationally to make it easy for the jurors to understand how the trial will be conducted. This means each mini-essay will vary from situation to situation.

However, each one has the following components: 

Introduction 

An appropriate introduction introduces the counsel, their client, the case theory, and the objectives of the trial. This segment is meant to build rapport with the jurors and inform them briefly about the case.   

The attorney captures the audience’s attention by providing a compelling or intriguing statement related to the case. This can be a fact, a question, or a story that piques interest.

Explanation of the case 

The introduction should also discuss the details of the dispute. The client’s perspective on the case should clearly and comprehensively emerge in this segment. By providing a clear and concise summary of the factual background, the attorney aims to ensure that the judge or jury has a solid understanding of the case from the outset. This overview acts as a foundation upon which the attorney will build their arguments and present supporting evidence to support their client’s position.

Explanation of how the evidence supports the client’s case 

The attorney not only provides an overview of the case but also previews the evidence that will be presented to support their arguments. This may include witness testimonies, documents, expert opinions, or any other relevant evidence. By highlighting the evidence, the attorney aims to give the judge or jury a glimpse into the strength and credibility of their case. This helps to set expectations for the evidence that will be presented throughout the trial and allows the attorney to establish a persuasive narrative that supports the client’s position.

Witness identification 

If witness statements are to be presented in court, it should indicate the number of witnesses and their profession. They may mention the key points they expect these witnesses to testify about, providing a glimpse into the evidence that will be presented. By highlighting the witnesses and their anticipated testimony, the attorney aims to establish credibility and build anticipation for the upcoming testimonies.

Conclusion 

In the conclusion, the attorney summarizes the main points presented, reiterates the central theme of their case, and delivers a persuasive statement that sets the tone for the remainder of the trial. This concluding part aims to leave a lasting impression on the judge or jury by reinforcing the key arguments and emphasizing the strength of the attorney’s position.

By restating the central theme and making a compelling statement, the attorney seeks to create a sense of conviction and persuade the fact-finder to view the case from their perspective. The conclusion plays a crucial role in shaping the overall narrative and guiding the perception of the case moving forward.

Tips for Developing It Effectively

As illustrated earlier, a well-written mini-essay has a substantial impact on persuading a judge or jury. Below are tips on how to write an effective opening statement for your case:

  • Prepare the debate to reflect the theme of the case so that it can appeal to the different qualities or personalities of the jurors. Also, having a theme enables you to develop a consistent and compelling message and organize evidence rationally. A good theme should grasp the jury’s attention and be memorable. 
  • The first sentence should be impactful. If you start strong, you will likely grab the jury’s attention and influence the rest of the trial. 
  • Information should be organized in an orderly and rational manner. This makes it easy for the jurors to follow the argument.
  • Use the initial statement to demonstrate your knowledge of facts, accuracy, sincerity, and confidence in the evidence. These qualities will establish your credibility and persuade the jury.
  • Be confident and likable; the storytelling techniques can persuade the jurors to favor your client. Other techniques include expressions and gestures. Such techniques help create an emotional connection with the audience.
  • It should not be aggressive. It is primarily meant to be informative and persuasive to guide the court on the dispute between the parties and what each party will present to prove their case. 

Opening statements will greatly vary depending on the party presenting them, its intended objectives, and the nature of the fact-finding proceeding.

Below are examples of these sentences:

Defense statement example

This is a debate presented by the defense team. It provides alternative explanations for the referenced occurrences, challenges witnesses’ credibility , and highlights weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. It aims to persuade jurors of the client’s innocence. 

Mr. Harry Sendoff is wrongfully accused in this case. He bought the car months after the bank robbery he is accused of being part of. The vehicle was bought from Hybrid Motors under an as-is bill of sale to be presented. The title and vehicle registration ID will also be produced to show the date when the title was transferred. We hope that he will be acquitted with the indisputable evidence provided.  

Prosecution statement example

A prosecution mini-essay indicates the elements of the crime and presents key evidence, witnesses, and legal grounds for the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It aims to persuade the jury of the defendant’s wrongdoing and justification for prosecution.    

This is a case of employee assault. Barry Miles has been an employee of Jerry Sanders for four years. CCTV footage shows multiple assaults by Mr. Sanders on multiple occasions. Mr. Miles feared reporting the crimes as he was threatened with being fired. We hope the court finds Mr. Sanders guilty of assault and blackmail and orders him to pay $100,000 in damages. 

Mock trial statement example

A mock trial simulates or hypothesizes real events that led to litigation. So, its debate should provide a compelling narrative that accurately depicts the parties’ actions or events in the case. 

This is a case of theft. Mrs. Sharleen Hides’ purse and phone were stolen by Mr. Barry Button through snatching, and he fled to the BigYellow Store. The phone was traced and found to be in Mr. Button’s possession. Multiple witnesses can attest to this fact and will be called to the stand. We hope the defendant can be found guilty and convicted, or pay a compensation of $5,000. 

Mediation statement example

The statement for a mediation case typically begins by defining mediation as a voluntary and confidential process in which parties come together with the assistance of a neutral mediator to resolve their disputes. Mediation is based on open communication, active listening, and mutual understanding, aiming to facilitate dialogue and find mutually satisfactory solutions.

It provides an opportunity for the parties to express their perspectives, identify common ground, and explore creative options to resolve their differences without resorting to litigation. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation, respect, and the willingness to engage in productive discussions to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.

Good morning/afternoon. My name is [Your Name], and I represent [Party Name]. With me is [Co-Counsel’s Name], and together, we will guide you through this mediation process. We are here today to resolve our dispute fairly and efficiently. Through constructive dialogue, we aim to find a mutually beneficial solution that addresses both parties’ concerns. Let us approach this process with an open mind, respectful communication, and a willingness to explore creative options. Our goal is to restore or enhance the relationship between the parties while reaching a fair resolution. Thank you.

Arbitration statement example

In an arbitration proceeding, which is a type of alternative dispute resolution, the opening statement acts as an introduction to the case and establishes the framework for the arguments and evidence that will be presented. It serves as an opportunity for the representatives of the parties to provide a concise overview of the dispute and its main issues, while also outlining their desired outcome or objectives.

Its purpose is to capture the arbitrator’s attention and ensure a clear understanding of the parties’ positions, ultimately guiding the subsequent proceedings toward a fair and impartial resolution.

Good morning/afternoon. My name is [Your Name], and I represent [Party Name]. With me is [Co-Counsel’s Name], and together, we will present our case before the arbitrator. We will diligently present evidence, testimonies, and legal arguments to support our position. Our commitment is to fairness, integrity, and professionalism throughout this process. We trust the arbitrator’s expertise in making a reasoned decision based on the facts and legal principles presented. Thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

The length of the mini-essay will depend on the complexity of the case. Additionally, in some jurisdictions, there are restrictions on its length, while in others, the judge has discretion in determining the appropriate length. However, most statements will last between 10-45 minutes. 

Attorneys are restricted to providing facts they intend to prove and admissible evidence only, rather than making legal arguments or drawing conclusions. Lawyers must also respect the presumption of innocence, particularly in criminal cases, and avoid making statements that assume the guilt of the defendant. It is important to avoid using language that could unduly influence the jury. Moreover, attorneys should only discuss admissible evidence that has been properly introduced in court, following evidentiary rules. Familiarity with the specific rules and guidelines of the jurisdiction is essential to ensuring compliance with the limitations imposed on opening statements.

Attorneys should focus on presenting their own case rather than attacking or criticizing the opposing party. The focus should be on presenting their own evidence and arguments.

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Crafting a Compelling CV Opening Statement (Examples Included)

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Types of CV opening statements

Crafting a strong cv opening statement, 6 examples of powerful cv opening statements, key takeaways for crafting a compelling cv opening statement, frequently asked questions (faqs).

You’ve put in the work and have the experience. You have everything a great candidate needs.

The problem is, how do you stand out from all the other qualified candidates?

Potential employers will be going through a stack of CVs, all from candidates with similar skills and backgrounds.

If you want to stand out from the crowd, you have to catch the reader’s attention right away.

One way to do that is with a compelling opening statement.

This is your first introduction to recruiters and gives them an idea of who you are. In just a few sentences, you can showcase key skills and offer a brief career overview.

Read our guide below for examples and tips on how to craft a great opening statement that will catch recruiters’ attention.

When you’re ready to add your own opening statement to your CV, head over to our CV builder and create yours today.

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your CV here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

The terms objective, personal statement, and summary are sometimes used interchangeably.

While they all have a similar goal, there are slight differences between them.

CV objective

A CV objective communicates your goals for your career and desired position. Potential employers want candidates who share the same vision for the company’s future.

An effective CV objective shows how your ambitions as a candidate will impact success at your target company.

Do some research on your target company. What problems do they have? How can you provide solutions? Show them that you’re the candidate that will take them where they want to go.

A strong CV objective is particularly suitable for those early in their careers or changing industries. Show potential employers that you’re dedicated to growth in your role.

Personal statement or summary

A personal statement or summary provides a concise overview of your experience and skills. This is the first part of your CV that recruiters will read and get an introduction to who you are.

A personal statement should be 3-5 concise sentences. Introduce yourself, your achievements, and your career goals. A personal statement often includes an objective.

Recruiters should have a good idea of your value in the industry and potential as an employee after reading your summary.

Your opening statement is a short but important part of your CV. There are many aspects to consider when writing a summary that will get you noticed.

Aligning your statement with the job description

Every section of your CV should be tailored to your target job , including your opening statement.

Align your opening statement with the job description while highlighting relevant skills and experiences. You have limited space, so only include the most relevant and important information.

Read up on your target company. What is their mission? What goal are they working toward? Use your opening statement to show how your goals are aligned with theirs.

Showcasing your unique value

Remember that hiring managers are going to be looking at CVs from countless applicants, all with similar backgrounds and qualifications.

Your CV must succinctly communicate what sets you apart from other candidates.

Use your opening statement to highlight your value in the industry. Showcase your greatest achievements and accomplishments.

Potential employers want to know how you will impact success at their company. Provide evidence of your success and measurable results you’ve achieved in the past.

Avoiding common mistakes

With such limited space to work with, avoiding mistakes is crucial. If your opening statement is boring or full of errors, recruiters won’t give your CV a second thought.

A common mistake candidates make in opening statements is being overly generic. Now is not the time to make broad, general statements. Be specific and provide examples.

Saying that you are “an experienced negotiator” doesn’t mean much, but saying you “negotiated with 12 new clients and earned £2.5M in revenue in 2022” shows your value in the industry.

Be sure to only include relevant information. Irrelevant information wastes space on your CV and confuses readers.

If you’re applying for a hotel management job, don’t include an award you won in a dance competition. It’s irrelevant and doesn’t speak to your experience in the target role.

Need a few examples to give you a better idea of what makes a compelling opening statement?

Read below for examples of CV objectives and personal statements. Then browse our collection of CV examples to see even more.

3 CV objective examples

Here are a few examples of well-written CV objectives for different roles and situations.

Project manager

Graphic designer, web developer, 3 personal statement or summary examples.

Here are a few examples of compelling personal statements or summaries across various roles and career stages.

Software engineer

Hotel manager, program director.

A well-crafted opening statement makes a positive first impression and entices the recruiter to read the rest of your CV.

Use only the most important and relevant information to introduce yourself to potential employers and stand out from other candidates.

Include a strong objective that shows your career goals. Provide results you have achieved in previous roles to show how you will impact success.

Avoid using generic statements and highlight your unique value. Don’t waste space with irrelevant information that isn’t tailored to your target job.

Should I always include an opening statement in my CV?

An opening statement is particularly beneficial when entering the workforce or changing careers. It’s a great way to catch recruiters’ attention and stand out from other candidates in a competitive field.

However, opening statements are not always necessary. Consider factors like industry, experience, and level. If you have over a decade of experience and accomplishments, you may choose to leave it off your CV.

How long should my CV opening statement be?

The optimal length of an opening statement is about 3-5 sentences. This keeps your statement concise while effectively conveying key information.

Keep your statement just long enough to introduce yourself, highlight a past achievement, and share your goals for the role.

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How To Craft The Opening Statement Of Your Resume

How To Craft The Opening Statement Of Your Resume

The most precious piece of real estate in your entire resume is the top of the first page. At the cursory glance, this is the area that is going to get the most attention. And there are some things you can do to make that most of that – or get your resume tossed in the “not interested” pile.

Related: Boring Old Resume Objective Vs. Branding Statement

Here's a quick checklist of things NOT to do when crafting the opening statement of your resume:

1. Don’t Generalize

2. don’t write an opening statement over six lines deep, 3. don’t speak in first person or past tense.

  • 6 Reasons Why Your Resume Isn't Getting A Response ›
  • 10 Things To Remove From Your Resume ›
  • Do's And Don't's For Your Resume Objective ›
  • How To Write a Resume Opening Statement (+10 Examples ... ›
  • 51 Examples of General Resume Objective Statements | Indeed.com ›

11 Ways To Enjoy Summer When You’re Working A Full-Time Job

There you are: sitting on the beach, covered in sunscreen, reading your favorite book, drinking your favorite drink under the cool shade of an umbrella. Life doesn't get any better than this. Suddenly, a door slams, a phone rings, a printer turns on. You jolt back into consciousness. You're at work, sitting in your cubicle, without even a hint of sunshine streaming in from outside.

When you're working a full-time job, finding time to enjoy the warm, bright summer weather can be a challenge. This is especially true for young professionals , as many of them are used to having summers off (or, at the very least, having a flexible summer schedule). But there's no need to feel trapped behind your cubicle walls. Go out and enjoy summer!

Here are a few tips for making the most of your summer while working full time.

1. Grab Some Foldable Chairs

Keep a couple of foldable camping chairs at the office so you and a co-worker can catch some rays during lunch—whether it's in the park or the parking lot.

2. Keep A Beach Bag In Your Car​

Keep a bag full of summer supplies for your favorite summer activities . Having a bag (or, in my case, a backseat) full of towels, sunscreen, and swimwear keeps you prepared for anything. Friends hitting up the pool after work? You're covered. Once the clock strikes five, you can head to your destination of choice immediately.

3. Plan An Office Outing

Plan an office field trip to the beach, the park, or the pool. Just do something fun so your brain can recharge and refresh!

4. Organize Group Walks

Get a bunch of co-workers together and go on regular walks around town during lunch. (Or you could suggest a quick jaunt over to the ice cream shop.) This is a great way to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise.

5. Eat Lunch At The Park

When you find yourself eating out, hit up places with a deck, porch, or patio of some sort. Obviously, eating out every day isn't really a feasible option for most of us, so look into alternative ideas as well. Pack a lunch and hit the park for your own little picnic.

6. Organize Office Sports

Whether it's setting up an official office sports team or just hanging out with your colleagues a few times a week, playing sports is a great way to get out and enjoy the weather. Have a field nearby? Try setting up some slow-pitch softball games. Or see if you can get a basketball hoop for the office so you and a few co-workers can shoot some hoops at lunch.

7. Join A Professional Group

During the summer, professional networking groups often have fun events like harbor cruises, pub crawls, and outdoor mixers. Find a professional group in your area and make networking fun this summer.

8. Have An Office BBQ

Get your grill on! Talk to your boss about setting up an office BBQ. Ask everyone to contribute their favorite dish, side, or drink. Fire up the grill and relax! Hey, it's summer after all.

9. Wake Up Early

Yes, yes, I know...waking up early is an incredibly painful and unbearable experience for some of us, but waking up even an hour earlier has its benefits—especially in the summer. Go for a morning run, putter around in the garden, or watch the sunrise with a loved one. Talk about starting the day off right!

10. Strategically Use Your Time Off

Strategically use your vacation days around holidays. This way, you can make a potentially long weekend longer without having to use too much of your precious vacation time . Half days are also pretty awesome. It's amazing how much you can do with four extra hours! If you want an early weekend but don't want to burn up your vacation days too quickly, try taking a half day on a Friday instead of using a full day off.

11. Bike To Work

If you're one of the lucky few who live within walking or biking distance of work, take advantage of it! Not only will you get plenty of fresh air, but you'll also save money on gas, which is always a plus!

There are plenty of easy ways to enjoy summer when you work a full-time job. So this summer, try out a few of these ideas and make the most of the sunshine and warm weather—while they're still around!

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Career Sidekick

24 Resume Summary Examples That Get Interviews

By Biron Clark

Published: November 8, 2023

Biron Clark

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

A resume summary statement usually comes right after a job seeker’s contact info and before other resume sections such as skills and work experience. It provides employers with a brief overview of a candidate’s career accomplishments and qualifications before they read further. Because of how early it appears on the document, your resume summary statement (or your CV “profile” in the UK) is one of the first places recruiters and employers look. And without the right information, they’ll doubt that you’re qualified and may move to another resume.

So I got in touch with a select group of professional resume writers, coaches and career experts to get their best resume summary examples you can use and adapt to write a resume summary that stands out and gets interviews.

As a former recruiter myself, I’ll also share my best tips to write your resume summary effectively.

Why the Resume/CV Summary is Important

You may have heard that recruiters only spend 8-10 seconds looking at your resume. The truth is: they spend that long deciding whether to read more. They do glance that quickly at first and may move on if your background doesn’t look like a fit. However, if you grab their attention, they’ll read far more. Recruiters aren’t deciding to interview you in 8-10 seconds, but they are ruling people out in 8-10 seconds. And this is why your resume summary is so crucial. It appears high up on your resume (usually right after your header/contact info) and is one of the first sections employers see. So it’s part of what they’ll see in the first 8-10 seconds.

Your resume summary statement is one of your first (and one of very few) chances to get the employer to stop skimming through their pile of resumes and focus on YOU.

Watch: Resume Summary Examples That Get Interviews

10 resume summary examples:.

These career summary examples will help you at any experience level – whether you’re writing a professional summary after a long executive career, or writing your first resume summary without any experience! After you finish this article you’re NEVER going to have to send out a limp, weak resume summary statement again (and you’ll get far more interviews  because of it).

1. Healthcare Sales Executive Resume Summary Example:

Turnaround & Ground Up Leadership – Concept-to-execution strategies for untapped products, markets + solutions that yield 110% revenue growth – Negotiates partnerships with leading distributors + hospitals—Medline to Centara + Novant Health to Mayo Clinic –  Revitalizes underperforming sales organizations via scalable, sustainable infrastructures emulated as best practice –  C-Level networks of clinical + supply chain leadership acquired during tenures with XXX, XXX and XXX

Why this resume summary is good:

This resumes summary example’s strength lies in the detailed, unique information that has been included. By including revenue stats, names of past employers and partners, the reader right away sees that this person will bring to the role a strong networking ability with key players in his industry, and more importantly can build, grow and revitalize a sales organization, market or product.

By:  Virginia Franco, Founder of Virginia Franco Resumes  and Forbes contributor.

2. 15+ Year Business Owner Resume Summary Statement:

Dynamic and motivated marketing professional with a proven record of generating and building relationships, managing projects from concept to completion, designing educational strategies, and coaching individuals to success. Skilled in building cross-functional teams, demonstrating exceptional communication skills, and making critical decisions during challenges. Adaptable and transformational leader with an ability to work independently, creating effective presentations, and developing opportunities that further establish organizational goals.

Why this is a good summary section:

This is a resume summary statement that was for  a candidate returning to work after having her own business for 15+ years. Because of this, we needed to emphasize her soft skills and what she can bring to this potential position. In addition, we highlighted the skills she has honed as a business owner so that she can utilize these qualifications as a sales professional, account manager , and someone knowledgeable about nutrition, medicine, and the overall sales process.

By: Dr. Heather Rothbauer-Wanish. MBA, Ph.D., CPRW, and Founder of Feather Communications

3. Human Resources Generalist Resume Summary Example:

Human Resources Generalist with progressive experience managing employee benefits & compliance, employee hiring & onboarding, performance management processes, licensure tracking and HR records. Dependable and organized team player with the ability to communicate effectively and efficiently. Skilled at building relationships with employees across all levels of an organization. Proficient with HRIS, applicant tracking and benefits management.

Why this is a good resume summary:

The applicant highlights their experience across a wide range of HR functions from the very first sentence, and continues this pattern throughout the rest of the summary. They then use easily digestible langue to showcase their hard skills (in the first & fourth sentences) and soft skills (in the second & third sentences). They also integrate a variety of keywords to get past automated job application systems , without sounding spammy or without overdoing it.

By: Kyle Elliott, MPA/CHES,  Career Coach and Consultant

4. Social Media Marketing CV Profile Example (UK):

Social media expert with successes in the creation and management of social media strategies and campaigns for global retail organisations. Extensive experience in the commercial utilisation of multiple social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube; I build successful social strategies that increase brand awareness, promote customer engagement and ultimately drive web traffic and conversions.

Why this summary is good:

This summary is well-written, short, sharp, and gives recruiters a high-level explanation of the candidate’s core offerings in a persuasive and punchy style. A quick scan of this profile tells you the exact type of social media platforms the candidate is an expert in, as well as the campaigns they have experience running and types of organizations they have worked for. Most importantly, the summary is rounded off by showing the results that this person achieves for their employers, such as increased web traffic and conversions.

Editor’s note: This CV profile summary was written for the UK market… this is a great one to use/copy, but make sure you put it through a spell-checker if you’re applying for jobs in the US (utilisation vs. utilization, etc.)

By: Andrew Fennell, Director at StandOut CV , contributor for The Guardian and Business Insider

5. Marketing Manager Professional Summary Example:

Marketing Manager with over eight years of experience. Proven success in running email marketing campaigns and implementing marketing strategies that have pulled in a 20% increase in qualified leads. Proficient in content, social media and inbound marketing strategies. Skilled, creative and innovative.

This resume summary stands out because it gets straight to the point. By immediately introducing the number of years of experience the candidate has, the HR manager doesn’t need to spend time adding up years. The candidate also jumps right into his or her strongest skill, provides a statistic , then gives additional skills.

By: Sarah Landrum, career expert and contributor at Entrepreneur.com and Forbes

6. Warehouse Supervisor Resume Summary Example:

Warehouse Supervisor with Management, Customer Service, & Forklift Experience –  Dependable manager with 15+ years of experience in warehouse management and employee supervision. –  Skilled at managing inventory control, shipping & receiving, customer relations and safety & compliance. –  Certified Power Equipment Trainer, Forklift Operator and Reach Operator skilled at coaching other staff. –  Promoted to positions of increased responsibility given strong people and project management skills.

The applicant was applying for a warehouse supervisor position that required them to have demonstrated management, customer service and forklift experience. As such, the applicant showcased their experience in these areas with a few keywords in the title, followed by additional details in the accompanying bullet points. Their final bullet shows a record of promotions, while reinforcing the applicant’s customer service and project management skills.

7. IT Project Manager Resume Summary Example:

Experienced Project Manager with vast IT experience. Skills include computer networking, analytical thinking and creative problem solving. Able to apply customer service concepts to IT to improve user experience for clients, employees and administration.

Because this candidate is switching career paths, it’s important he or she take skills used for previous positions and apply those skills to the new job listing. This is a great example because the candidate makes it clear that his or her experience is not in the new field, but that they are still able to bring relevant experience to the table. When writing your resume summary, keep these tips in mind: Use writing that is straight to the point, clear and concise, you’ll have a higher chance of getting noticed by the hiring manager.

8. Career-Changer Resume Summary Example:

Earn trust, uncover key business drivers and find common ground as chief negotiator and identifier of revenue opportunities in sales, leadership and account management roles spanning e-Commerce, air travel and high-tech retail. Navigate cultural challenges while jumping time zones, lead international airline crews and manage corporate accounts to deliver an exceptional customer experience. A self-taught techie sought after as a go-to for complex billing systems and SaaS platforms alike—bridging the divide between technology and plain-speak. – Tenacious Quest for Success + Learning . Earned MBA and BS in just 3 years while working full-time – gaining hands-on experience in research- and data-driven product roadmap development, pricing and positioning. – Results-Driven Leadership. Whether leading Baby Boomers, Gen X or Millennials—figures out what makes teams tick, trains and transforms individuals into top-performers. – Challenger of Conventional Wisdom. Always ask the WHY. Improve the user experience through smart, strategic thinking that anticipates outcomes. Present cases that influence, and lead change that drives efficiency and profitability.

This client was eager for a career change and had moved from role to role and industry to industry. After completing her Master’s degree, she was eager to tie her skills together to land a role – which she did – as a Senior Technology Account Strategist for a global travel company. Although a bit longer than a traditional summary, its strength lies in the details. Without ever getting to the experience section, the reader gets a clear idea of the scope of responsibility, and hard and soft skills the candidate brings to the table.

By: Virginia Franco, Founder of Virginia Franco Resumes  and Forbes contributor.

9. Project Management Executive Professional Summary Example:

15+ years of initiating and delivering sustained results and effective change for Fortune 500 firms across a wide range of industries including enterprise software, digital marketing, advertising technology, e-commerce and government. Major experience lies in strategizing and leading cross-functional teams to bring about fundamental change and improvement in strategy, process, and profitability – both as a leader and expert consultant.

Why this resume summary is good:

“Project Manager” is one of those job titles that’s REALLY broad. You can find project managers earning $50K, and others earning $250K. The client I wrote this for was at the Director level, and had worked for some of the biggest and best tech companies in her city. So this resume profile section shows her level and experience, and the wide array of areas she has responsibility for in her current work. You can borrow or use some of the phrasing here to show that you’ve been responsible for many important areas in your past work.

By: Biron Clark, Founder of  CareerSidekick.com.

10. Startup And Finance Management Consultant Career Summary Example:

Experienced strategist, entrepreneur and startup enthusiast with a passion for building businesses and challenging the status quo. 8+ year track record of defining new business strategies, launching new ventures, and delivering operational impact, both as a co-founder and management consultant. 

Why this resume summary example is good:

This summary was for a highly-talented management consultant looking to break out of finance, and into trendier tech companies like Uber . His track record and educational background were great, so the goal of this summary section was to stand out and show he’s more than just the typical consultant with a finance background. So we emphasized his passion for startups, and his ability to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. That’s something that companies like Uber and other “disruptive” tech companies look for.

14 Resume Summary Examples for Various Industries

Compassionate and effective 5th-grade teacher with experience overseeing the classroom and preparing lessons. Extensive experience encouraging students through positive reinforcement and motivational techniques. Collaborate well with school administration and other members of the teaching team. Ensure all students meet learning requirements, including literacy, social, and arithmetic skills.

2. Teacher’s Assistant

Goal-oriented teacher’s assistant with ten years of experience working with elementary school children. Aid teachers with lesson planning, classroom settings, and group instruction. Model positive behavior and maintain order in the classroom. Willingness to take on additional responsibilities to meet learning objectives.

Tech Industry

3. computer programmer.

Innovative computer programmer with a proven track record of writing high-quality code and supporting team needs with subject matter expertise. Adept in multiple programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, and C++. Ability to troubleshoot complex programming issues with inventive solutions. 

4. Cybersecurity Analyst

Dedicated cybersecurity analyst with ten years of experience in online security research, execution, planning, and maintenance. Proven track record of identifying business risks and proactively resolving them. Experience designing and instituting layered network security for large-scale organizations. Train users and other staff members on IT safety procedures and preventive techniques.
Skilled healthcare professional with ten years of experience in patient care, diagnosis, and providing appropriate treatments and medical services. Manage medical staff and resolve complex medical cases with maximum efficiency. Communicate the patient’s condition and treatment plan in easily understood terminology. Remain current with the latest advancements in medicine and research to ensure patients receive proper care.

6. Registered Nurse

Seasoned registered nurse offering comprehensive patient care in emergency room settings. Experience handling diverse patient populations and caring for various conditions. Proven leadership managing nursing teams and other staff. Focus on enhancing patient care and satisfaction through empathetic communication and excellent customer service. 

7. Digital Marketing Manager

Forward-thinking digital marketing manager experienced in all facets of digital marketing, including social media management, PPC advertising, SEO, and email marketing. Proven experience creating comprehensive marketing plans that improve lead prospecting and enhance brand awareness. Up to date with the newest tools available for digital marketing campaigns.

8. Marketing Analyst

Industrious marketing analyst well-versed in analyzing marketing campaign analytics and making recommendations to improve performance. Collaborate with account managers and use KPI metrics to explain the results of marketing initiatives. Meticulous with a strong work ethic and robust communication skills.

Food and Service Industry

Experienced wait staff member capable of managing orders, processing payments, and upselling menu items. Ensure restaurant guests feel welcome with attentive service catered to their needs. Remain current on updates to the menu and assist guests with selecting orders to meet their dietary requirements. Maintain a positive attitude and focus during busy restaurant periods.

10. Hotel Receptionist

Friendly hotel receptionist with extensive experience handling guest check-ins, check-out, and payments. Facilitate a positive guest experience with polished customer service skills and a readiness to address common inquiries and complaints. Collaborate well with other hotel team members, including executive administration and on-site restaurant staff.

Business/Office Jobs

11. financial analyst.

Highly motivated financial analyst with a proven track record of recommending appropriate financial plans based on financial monitoring, data collection, and business strategizing. Experienced in qualitative and quantitative analysis, forecasting, and financial modeling. Excellent communication skills for building and fostering long-term business relationships across the organization.

12. Tax Accountant

Experienced tax accountant with ten years of experience preparing federal and state tax returns for corporations and partnerships. Monitor changes in laws to ensure the organization properly complies with reporting requirements. Assist with tax audits, ensuring the team receives proper supporting evidence for tax positions. Analyze and resolve complex tax issues. Look for available tax savings opportunities for corporations with an aggregate savings of $500K last year. Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.

Sales and Customer Service

13. sales representative.

Enthusiastic sales representative with expertise in identifying prospects and converting qualified leads to paying customers. Provide quality customer service and contribute to team sales success. Offer exceptional communication skills and seek to understand client needs before making the appropriate product recommendations. Continually meet and exceed sales goals. Leverage extensive knowledge of available products to provide appropriate client solutions and enhance customer loyalty and retention.

14. Customer Service Associate

Knowledgeable customer service professional with extensive experience in the insurance industry. Known as a team player with a friendly demeanor and proven ability to develop positive rapport with clients. Maintain ongoing customer satisfaction that contributes to overall company success. Highly articulate, with a results-oriented approach that addresses client inquiries and issues while maintaining strong partnerships. Collaborate well with the customer service team while also engaging independent decision-making skills.

Now you have 24 professional resume summary statements and some explanations of why they’re effective. Next, I’ll share tips for how to write your own in case you’re still unsure how to begin based on these examples above.

How to Write a Resume Summary: Steps and Hints

We’ve looked at 10 great resume summary examples above. As you begin writing a resume summary for yourself, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

  • Read the employer’s job description. Your career summary shouldn’t be a long list of everything you’ve done; it should be a refined list of skills and experiences that demonstrate you’re a fit for their job.
  • Mention your current job title if relevant. One common way to begin your resume summary is to state your current job title.
  • Explain how you can help employers achieve their goals or solve their problems.
  • Consider using bold text to emphasize one or two key phrases.
  • Include any relevant metrics and data like dollar amounts, years of experience, size of teams led, etc. This helps your resume stand out.
  • Focus on making the employer want to read more. The goal of your resume summary isn’t to show everything you can do, but to grab their attention and show enough that they continue reading.

Creating a Customized Resume Summary

While general summaries are appropriate when applying for jobs requiring similar skills and experience, a customized resume summary can enhance your chances of moving on to the next step in the hiring process. 

That’s because most companies use automated tracking systems (ATS) to review submitted resumes for content directly related to the job posting. If you use keywords and natural language phrases in your summary that interlink to the job description, you’ll have a much higher chance of passing the ATS review.

Let’s look at an example of a resume summary that is customized for the specific job description below:

Social Media Specialist Job posting

“Highly motivated social media specialist with strong project management skills. Creative marketer skilled in crafting innovative social media campaigns that resonate with a target audience. Regularly develop compelling copy and social media content to enhance lead generation and brand awareness. Detail-oriented with extensive project management skills that ensure proper prioritization of tasks and projects. Work with various social media management and analytics tools to examine results and make adjustments as necessary.”

This summary directly addresses the key points in the job description but rewrites them so the customization is natural and flows well. It’s personalized for the open role and uses similar terms with a few strategically placed keywords, such as “social media content” and “project management.”  

How Long Should a Resume Summary Be?

As you read the resume summaries above, you probably noticed there are some short single-paragraph resume summary examples and much longer career summaries that are two to three paragraphs plus bullet points. So how long should YOUR professional summary be? If you have relevant work experience, keep your summary to one or two paragraphs. The piece you really want the hiring manager to read is your most recent work experience (and you should make sure you tailored that info to fit the job description). The resume summary is just a “bridge” to get the hiring manager into your experience.

If I were writing my own career summary right now, I’d likely use one single paragraph packed with skills, accomplishments, and exactly why I’m ready to step into the job I’ve applied for and be successful!

Even for a manager resume summary, I recommend a very short length. However, if you’re changing careers, or you’re looking for jobs without any work experience , the summary section needs to stand on its own, and should be longer. That’s why some examples above are a bit longer.

Formatting Your Resume/CV Career Summary

You may have noticed a variety of different formats in the career summary examples above. There isn’t one “right” way to format this section on your resume or CV. However, I recommend either using one or two brief paragraphs, or combining a short sentence or paragraph with bullets. Avoid writing three or four long paragraphs with no special formatting like bullet points. That’s simply too much text for your summary section and will cause recruiters and hiring managers to skip over it in some cases.

Should You Include a Resume Objective?

You do not need to include an objective on your resume, and doing so can make your resume appear outdated. Use a resume summary instead of an objective. Follow the resume summary examples above and focus on discussing your skills, qualifications, and achievements, rather than stating your objective. Employers know that your objective is to obtain the position you’ve applied for, and the resume objective has no place on a modern resume/CV in today’s job market.

Examples of Bad Resume Summaries

Now that we’ve seen a few exemplary resume summaries, let’s look at some that you should avoid at all cost.

1. Typos and Grammatical Errors

“Experienced cashier who knows how to run the register cash. Responsible with the money and can talk with the customer. Knows when to stoc up the invenory and checks it all the time. Can count change and run credit card tranactions. Get the customer happy by good service. I am always cheerful and organized.”

Why this resume summary is bad:

If you read the summary carefully, you’ll notice several spelling errors. The words “stock,” “inventory,” and “transactions” are all spelled wrong. Grammatical errors make the summary choppy and difficult to follow (“Get the customer happy by good service”).  A summary like this probably won’t fly with a company looking for a detail-oriented cashier responsible for managing in-person sales.

2. Lacks Relevant Keywords

“Talented worker with experience managing a team of staff. Creative and responsible with knowledge of organizational processes. Can keep up with the busiest of environments. Stays focused when at work, ensuring prompt task completion. Dependable and willing to collaborate with a team to get things done.”  

In this example, the chef doesn’t use keywords relevant to cooking, restaurants, or kitchens. The summary is very generic and can apply to nearly any job. A manager who receives the application isn’t likely to understand what value the candidate can bring to the restaurant.  To fix the summary, the applicant must rewrite it to include relevant keywords and phrases. 

3. No Numbers to Quantify Achievements

“An experienced and hardworking manager ready to align procedures for maximum revenue and profits. Proven track record of streamlining and strengthening processes, resulting in higher sales and better customer satisfaction. Collaborate well with sales team members, ensuring they have the resources and knowledge to support customer purchases and inquiries. Develop strong rapport with clients and maintain ongoing relationships.”

This isn’t a terrible summary for a sales manager, but it has room for improvement. For one, the first two sentences essentially duplicate each other, mentioning an aptitude for improving processes with the objective of higher sales. The other issue is a lack of quantifying achievements. 

The applicant mentions they have a proven record of increasing sales, but they could strengthen the summary by quantifying their results. For example, they might say, “Proven track record of streamlining and strengthening processes, resulting in a 25% increase in sales over the past year.” The quantifier provides additional credibility. 

4. Not Targeting the Specific Job

“Looking for work in a role that requires great customer service, project management, and communication skills. Able to collaborate with people from diverse and varying backgrounds. Highly organized and reliable worker with a strong work ethic. Responsible and reliable worker you can count on.”

While the candidate lists various skills they have, including customer service and project management, there’s no indication of prior roles held or what position they’re applying for. The summary could apply to numerous positions in a variety of industries. To improve the resume summary, the applicant must specify the job they’re applying for and indicate their prior experience in a similar role, if they have any.

After You Start Getting Interviews, Make Sure to Take Advantage…

If you follow the advice above, you’ll have a great professional resume summary to make your qualifications stand out to employers. But landing the interview is only half the battle… So make sure you go into every interview ready to convince employers that they should hire you, too! If you write a great resume summary example that gets employers excited to interview you, they’re going to ask you questions like, “tell me about yourself” early in the interview to learn more about your background. So make sure you’re prepared with an answer.

I also recommend you review the top 20 interview questions and answers here.

Your resume caught their interest, so naturally, they’re going to follow up with a variety of questions to learn more about your professional background.

The bottom line is: A strong professional resume summary, followed up by other well-written resume sections will get you the interview, but your interview performance is what determines whether you get the job offer!

Biron Clark

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

More Resume Tips & Guides

Crafting the perfect resume for teens (template & expert advice), are resume writers worth it, don’t say you’re a quick learner on your resume, what do recruiters look for in a resume, chronological resume: the best format (and how to write it), the 3 best colors for a resume, career change resume: examples and tips from experts, what makes a good resume 9 ways to know, how long should a resume be, walk me through your resume: answer examples, 41 thoughts on “24 resume summary examples that get interviews”.

I would recommend to customise the skills section of your resume, and ensure that it matches the job posting. The higher the number of phrases within the resume matching the job requirements the more are the chances that the recruiter will pick you for the job.

I just wanted to say, “thank you!”. This was very helpful. Instead of jumping from one website to the next there’s so much useful, relevant information right here.

Hi, I have been having trouble creating a resume as My old one is so long, I’ve worked for a government agency for the past 14 years and held multiple positions doing many different duties for each and now I have to relocate to another area where they do not have an agency like mine in my new area within a 3 hour drive, how can I squeeze all my experience and duties on one page and where do I even start, I’m so nervous, it’s been so long since I’ve attempted the job hunt. So I’m wondering, I do not want to cut anything out that may hurt my chances and I can’t afford to have my resume rewritten by a professional. Can you guide me as to where you think would be a good place to start, I’ve been staring at this laptop for weeks trying to decide on a resume template, there are so many. I thank you for your time and any input will help.

Hi, I am a new graduate and do not have any experience in my field which is Nursing. I want to apply for the jobs but I have no idea about what to mention in my resume.

Hi, this article should help with the resume summary, at least: https://careersidekick.com/summary-for-resume-no-experience/

Other than that, you need to put your academic experience. And internships/part-time jobs if you’ve had any.

Dear Biron,, Thanks for sharing the 10 examples of professional summaries in your article, and especially the reasons why they were considered to be good. However, as a HR professional, I would most likely skip over most of them and would not read much past the first or second sentence. The summaries were mostly too wordy and boring, and did not demonstrate ‘oomph’ at first cursory reading. Simply indicating certain skills or behaviors does not give an idea of the level of expertise, and could simply be wishful thinking on the part of the resume writer.

Just goes to show that there are many ways to see what makes a good summary.

I am a chemical engineer and project management professional with 15+years experience. My experience is between process engineering and project management . How can I marry the two in my profile summary?

It’s not about showing everything you’ve done. It’s about showing employers evidence you’ll succeed in their job. You can show a bit of both but focus heavily on what’s most relevant for the jobs you’re applying for right now. 80/20.

This was absolutely helpful and amazing! Thank you very much!

Hello, I am an active job seeker. I hold a law degree from a foreign country and currently in college for an associate degree. My question is, how do I blend both my foreign job experience with that of the United States in my resume. Thank you.

I’d put your work history in chronological order, starting with the most recent up top. That’s what I’d recommend for 95% of people actually. Then it doesn’t matter where you held each job.

And then in your Education section, I’d include your foreign degree and the current degree you’re pursuing in the US, too (for the US degree, you can say “in progress” or “graduating May 2019” for example).

I am 40 years old & B.A degree holder I have experience in many fields.I would like to join any one fields

I am a fresh graduate, who has five years teaching experience and some months customer service representative experience. Pls kindly assist me to put the resume summary together

I’m an active duty service member and finding in a little difficult creating a good transitional summary from 20 year profession in tactical communications to a drug and alcohol counselor. Do you have any recommendations how I should approach this? Any assistance would be helpful. Thanks

Great piece

How to write the CAREER ABSTRACT in resume for ware super visor retail business?

Just wanted to say thank you.Your advise and information was clear and easy to understand , sometimes there is nothing pertaining to what im looking fot in particular, buy you have sermed to cover everything I n a short quick easy to understand method.It will help tremendously.

Thanks! Glad to hear it helped :)

Very informational

What if you have work experience, but the job your going for(teachingeducation) has nothing to do with warehouse work? How should I build my resume?

In the summary, describe yourself and then say, “…looking to transition into ___” (the type of work you want to be doing now).

This is a bit like a resume “Objective”. I normally don’t recommend an Objective section (and I recommend a Summary section instead), however the one time an Objective does make sense is when you’re trying to change industries or make a big change in the type of role you have.

So that’s why my advice here might seem like I’m telling you to combine an Objective with your resume Summary.

Then “tailor” your previous work to be as relevant as possible. Even if you worked in a different industry you can still show things like leadership, accountability, progress/improvement, hard work, achieving goals, strong teamwork skills, etc. You can do all of that in your resume bullets and work history.

Don’t u have Resume Summary of legal secretary/legal assistant?

No, sorry about that. There are hundreds of different professions/job titles, and we aren’t able to include an example for every scenario out there. These resume summary examples are designed to give you a general idea of how to write yours.

The summaries listed are excellent example and have helped me develop a stand out summary for a new position.

Hello, I been trying to land the job of my dreams. I need help with my resume if i want the recruiters in airlines to notice me. I’ve applied before but haven’t had complete success to making it to a face-to Face Interview. It is a career change – yet i feel i am a great candidate bc i have had many customer service and I even attended an academy for that specific position. Can you please tell me what I am doing wrong on my resume ?

what if i never had a job experience?

Great question. If you don’t have any work experience, take one of the formats/examples above and put your accomplishments and qualifications from your academic studies.

Your headline could say: “Motivated Bio-Sciences Graduate With Expertise in ____”.

And then you might talk about accomplishments in school, group projects you worked on or led, etc.

Basically, when you have no work experience, your school/studies BECOMES your recent work. You should talk about that like it’s a job, because that’s the experience you do have.

really amazing article and too useful , thanks

Hi Mr. Clark, I have been out of the work force for about 18+years and I have been a small business owner for the same number of years. However, I want to go back to the work force. But my problem is that, I don’t know how to prepare my resume or resume summary statement. I had a degree in Communication,Arts and Sciences and a postgraduate degree in Public Administration. I’m a bit confused as to how to incorporate all these experiences into my resume. Please can you help?

Hi Dorothy, I can recommend a professional resume writer if you want. But they’re typically not cheap, so it’s something you’d have to be willing to invest in. If not, there’s a lot of free info online about how to “tailor” your resume for specific jobs. I can’t help one-on-one unfortunately, but I’d recommend thinking about which type of jobs you want, and think of what experience you have that is most relevant. that’s what to put on your resume. Your resume isn’t only about you, it’s about them – what do they want/need? (if you want to get a ton of interviews, that’s how to do it :) ).

Can I have a professional resume writer?

I use a similar format when writing my opening statement for my coverletter. How do you recommend differentiating the two? Or is it ok to use largely the same language?

I think it’s okay to use something similar. I might be more brief in the cover letter… it needs to be about them just as much as it’s about you. Whereas the resume is all about you, at least in the summary section. (The later sections should still be tailored to THEIR needs..)

Struggling to write a Summary Statement for a Secretary/Administrative Assistant position. I have 15 years government experience but have been away from the government since 9/1993 and have spent 15 years as a Substitute Teacher after taking off for 10 years to raise my children.

Hiya! I am a mother of three attempting to return to the workforce. I have been a stay at mom for about 13 years, so I have a (large) gap in my employment history; which doesn’t look great. I have a college education and have obtained a few certifications whilst not employed, plus many volunteer hours. I know that I should probably use a functional resume format. Would love some advice on what I should include in my summary statement.

Hi Juniper,

I rarely like functional resumes, but it might be worth trying. I’d “split-test” it (a marketing term). Create two resume styles, send out 50% one way, 50% the other way, and track results for a week.

I’d treat the resume summary statement just like any other resume. Highlight your skills and past wins/accomplishments.

how do i explain long term gaps in employment? leave them out?

Hi Paulette,

Don’t mention them on a resume summary. But do mention the gaps on a cover letter or lower down on the resume. Here’s an article on how to explain gaps in employment:

https://careersidekick.com/explaining-gaps-in-employment/

I am student in civil engineering field. Have 1.5 yrs of work ex. How should i structure my resume. Thanks.

Hello My name is Shataka and I’m a current job seeker trying to land my dream job as a Counselor. I have Master degree in Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. My experience lies in many different fields. I’m currently a Substance Abuse Counselor, with a teaching background and over 5 years of social service experience. I guess my question is how would I sum up all my experience to help me find a job as a Counselor.

Comments are closed.

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Resume Introduction: How to Write a Resume Opening That Impresses!

Having trouble starting a resume the resume introduction (opening paragraph) needs to be on point. here's how to write an intro paragraph on a resume sure to impress the hiring manager and hr reps.

Goodwall Team

“So tell us about yourself.”

That question may send a chill down your spine.

Where do you even start? Do you talk only about your work experience? Your personal life? Or just freeze up and say nothing?

Thankfully, resumes are usually the first glance that the employer will ever catch of you. 

Wondering how to start a resume?

Whether you apply online, drop it off in person, or post it on every streetlight (which we don’t suggest), you have the opportunity to craft a polished written statement that answers that dreaded question. 

That statement is what we call the  resume introduction statement . Want to learn how to craft your own? Keep reading below!

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Now, let’s get started with resume intros and opening statements:

First Impressions Are Huge

While first impressions aren’t everything, they are incredibly important. Especially when you are one lone resume in a sea of applicants. You need to shine!

Many scientific studies mention the importance of the first impression.  According to one study , a person forms their first impressions about someone within the first 1/10th of a second of seeing them.

While you don’t need to worry about landing your dream job in 1/10th of a second, you need to think about how your first impression with the employer will occur.

If you submit your resume through any online platform, such as a job listing or an email, then the recruiter’s first impression of you will be when they open the document. If science backs up the claim that  we make snap judgments within seconds , then we can assume that your resume introduction paragraph will be the true first impression.

So let’s make it awesome!

Related Read : How to List Education on a Resume: Complete Guide and Examples

What Is the Intention of an Opening Statement for Resume?

To make an awesome opening statement for your resume, we first need to break down what the purpose of the introduction really is. A Resume Introduction Paragraph is a short and clear way of sharing your personal interests and experiences with the employer. It is also a great way of clarifying what qualities you are looking for in a job.

Think about it like a first date for you and the company! (Actually, maybe don’t do that… that’s an HR nightmare waiting to happen.) Let’s use a different example.

A better example is the “Skip Ads” example: you are on YouTube, waiting to watch a new video. An advertisement comes up with a “You May Skip this Ad in 5 Seconds” button on the side.

What can that company say within the first 5 seconds that will get you to watch their advertisement?

Think about your resume’s opening statement as your personal advertisement. You are giving your potential employer a quick snippet of your product (which is you), and hopefully getting them to buy it!

Now that you understand the intention behind the resume introduction, let’s get into specifics. In the next section, we’ll break down the two main types of introduction paragraphs.

The Two Types of Introduction Paragraphs

There are two main types of resume intro paragraphs: The Resume Summary Statement and the Resume Objective Statement. While both set out to accomplish the same result, they are specifically formatted based on the amount of experience you have in the field.

The  Resume Summary Statement  is best for applicants with several years of experience in their field and are planning to progress within that field. The  Resume Objective Statement  is best for those new to the industry or anyone making a career change/coming back from an employment gap.

We’ll go into depth on both of these options in the next two sections.

Related Read : Resume Job History: How to List Work Experience on a Resume Right

The Resume Summary Statement

A Resume Summary Statement is a quick way to organize and focus on many years of work experience and projects in a relevant subject area. Summary statements often include quantifiable stats about your work. Some examples of those include:

  • Managed a remote team of over 50 people
  • Contributed to boosting positive customer reviews by over 45%
  • Prepared 300+ students for standardized testing

Remember: you are more than a number, and so is your work. Don’t exclude something you’re proud of just because it doesn’t look “impressive” enough.

Also remember: numbers alone can’t get you the job. If you can sandwich together your quantifiable stats with specific descriptors of the experiences you can’t put into numbers, you are golden!

Here’s an example of that:

“Seasoned and innovative event planner with over 6 years of experience in the Atlanta entertainment industry. Organized and executed events with an attendance of 500+ people. Maintains a strong relationship with local leaders and community members.”

This summary statement gives the reader both quantifiable and contextual job experiences, which humanizes the applicant and gives the reader a clearer picture of who you really are (and how skilled you are at writing !).

Don’t have any specific examples that fit the job you’re looking for? That’s ok! You might do better with an Objective Statement. Let’s discuss that next.

Related Read : Hobbies and Interests on a Resume: Why and How to Include Them

The Resume Objective Statement

Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time, coming back from a break, or switching career paths, you might feel as though you don’t have relevant enough experiences to list in a Resume Summary Statement.

That’s where objective statements come in!

Objective statements are better for highlighting skills rather than experience. This is a great way to showcase skills you’ve learned in school or from jobs in other industries.

Some examples of this include:

  • Dedicated and motivated engineering graduate seeking entry-level assistant quality control manager position with Company X
  • Looking to transition my 4 years of experience in client-facing problem solving into a more behind-the-scenes role

When writing an objective statement, the most important thing is to  be specific.  If you don’t have any quantifiable statistics about your job experience, you must be specific about where your current expertise fits in with the company.

Let’s use the “skip ads” example again here: you may have a product that people don’t think they need, but if you can garner even a smidge of that person’s interest within the first 5 seconds of your ad, they might try and find ways to justify purchasing your product.

Have you decided which type of statement is best for your experience level? Great! Now, let’s dive into how to start writing your personal statement.

Related Read : Resume Skills: How to Put Skills on a Resume the Right Way in 2021

How to Start

If you happen to already have an  elevator pitch , that is a great place to start!

Don’t have an elevator pitch? Don’t worry. You can check out our other blog post on “ How to Create an Elevator Pitch in 5 Easy Steps ”.

If that rent payment is quickly approaching and you don’t have time to read another article, that’s ok too. Just follow these EASY instructions:

Examine your work history. What have you previously done that could fit this position? Is there a quantifiable way to state that? If so, do it!

Accomplishments

What are some of your most impressive accomplishments? These can be both in your work life and your personal life if it makes sense to include. (Maybe don’t tell them about that hot dog eating contest you won in Florida, though.)

Proficient in a certain software? Include that. Great at public speaking? Include that. If something you’re good at happens to fit a task you might face at this new job, include it!

Whatever you decide to include, make sure you can actually do it. And make sure you can do it on the spot if asked to.

You are more than your job experience. Recruiters aren’t hiring resumes, they’re hiring people. Make sure your opening statement matches the vibe that you want to give off.

For example, if you are an incredibly creative and outgoing person, you probably want to tell them more about your people skills than your Excel spreadsheet skills. No harm in mentioning both, just start with what you feel represents you best.

Related Read : How to List Your Achievements on Your Resume (the Right Way) in 2021

You Have Everything You Need to Succeed

Now that you have all of the information needed on how to open a resume, it’s time to do just that!

If you get stuck at any point or just need an extra boost of motivation before you start, remember this:  you are enough.

You are not just your job experience, you’re a human being! Career changes, gaps in employment, and first jobs are all a part of life. You are exactly where you need to be to get the job you want.

Need help with the rest of your resume? We’ve got you!

Check out one of our other resume writing blog posts in our career section . And, if you have any questions on writing a great introduction statement or opening paragraph on a resume, just leave a comment below.

Thanks for reading, and good luck on your job hunt!

Related Read : 55 Resume Tips, Hacks & Expert Advice to Help You Score a Job Interview

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opening statement example on resume

Best CV Personal Profile Examples

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What is a CV personal profile?

A personal profile, also known as a CV summary, is the opening statement of your CV. It is a short introduction which outlines your personal characteristics, telling the prospective employer what kind of a person you are, the attributes and qualities that you possess and the work experience that you have.

personal profile cv examples

How to write a CV profile statement from scratch

When writing your personal profile, ensure it is:

  • Short (no more than 6 lines);
  • Relevant to the job you are applying for, and;
  • Contains some real-world examples .

Be bold, be confident and talk about yourself in a positive way.

Your personal profile is not the place to be humble; it is your chance to be noticed and tell the potential employer exactly who you ‘really’ are and what you can do for them.

Warning: Do not go ‘over the top’ and give the impression that you are either very arrogant or simply too good to be true! Keep it balanced and realistic, bearing in mind the needs of the employer.

Click here if you want to see a bad example of a personal profile.

student CV profile

What information to include on a personal profile

The purpose of your personal profile is to concisely present your skills, qualities, work experience, and your career goals and ambitions. Consequently, you can mention anything from the following categories when constructing your personal profile:

Personal Qualities

  • Self-motivated
  • Having an eye for detail
  • Management skills
  • Communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Design skills
  • 5 years experience in …
  • Excellent track record of …
  • Extensive background in …
  • Previous work experience in …

An ideal statement should have at least one example for each of these three categories.

How long should my profile statement be?

There are no set rules about the length of a personal profile, however, it is highly recommended to keep it ideally within the 50/80-words boundary (no longer than six lines). The reason for this is because employers, in the first instance, tend to scan CVs rather than extensively read it. Keeping it short and to the point increases the chances that they will actually read it.

Furthermore, as the total length of a CV is only 2 A4 pages long, having a short statement frees us valuable space for other key sections of your CV such as the work experience, education and skills sections .

Winning personal profile CV examples from all job sectors

Business management cv profile.

  • The candidate mentions their key personal skills and qualities that are relevant and important when managing a business.
  • The candidate mentions their relevant work experience in the field, indicating that they are able to work within multiple job sectors.

IT CV profile

  • The candidate correctly highlights their areas of expertise, such as designing websites, networking and managing databases. It is clear from these examples that the individual has a broad understanding of IT and would be able to work on a wide range of IT projects.
  • The candidate reassures the prospective employer that although they are working in a very technical field, they have the ability to work with a wide range of people. Interpersonal and communication skills are key to any job.

Student CV profile

  • The above personal statement is clear and informative, making it clear that the applicant is a student, currently completing their university degree, and are looking to work part-time in the industry.
  • It is always a good idea, as the candidate has done in this example, to clearly mention your availability for work and also the reasons for why you are seeking work. “Making money” is not a good enough reason for an employer to give you a job. The candidate has mentioned that they wish to put into practice what they have learned and make a positive contribution to the employer.

HR CV profile

HR CV profile

  • The candidate highlights that they have previous work experience in Human Resources (HR), making them familiar with the payroll systems and employment law. Additionally, they indicate some personal qualities (such as interpersonal skills and being sensitive to people’s privacies) which would be highly beneficial for the role that they are applying for.

Manager CV profile

  • The candidate not only states that they have three years’ of experience in management but they also mention the positive contribution that they made to that organisation. In this case, it was a significant improvement in the performance of the team that they were managing.

Sales/retail CV profile

  • Just by looking at the profile statement of this individual, we can conclude that this person has thorough experience of sales and is able to handle the various aspects of the selling process. Additionally, their promotion indicates that they are a high achiever.

Teaching CV profile

  • In just a few lines, the candidate demonstrates a great deal of compassion, empathy and care for young people and their futures. This level of care and concern, along with an enduring passion for teaching, are the key ingredients of being successful in any teaching careers.
  • The candidate indicating that they are able to work with young children from all backgrounds and walks of life. This is important, especially when living in today’s multicultural and diverse societies.

Engineering CV profile

  • The candidate correctly highlights their previous work experience and areas of expertise. This makes them look like a very competent and accomplished chemical engineer, increasing the chances of being invited for an interview.

Designer CV profile

  • This is an effective statement because the candidate highlights their valuable 1st class degree in Graphic Design and previous work experience in the design industry. Additionally, the candidate makes mention of their personal qualities, such as having the ability to think outside the box, to further indicate their suitability for the job.

Hospitality CV profile

  • The above is an excellent example of how profile statement should be constructed; it contains references to their previous work experience in the same industry, personal qualities that are relevant to the job (e.g. having a passion for food and socialising with people) and their job achievements (e.g. winning an award). Any employer reading this statement will have to think twice before they put it in the rejection pile!

Admin CV profile

Admin CV Profile

  • The candidate mentions their previous work experience project management and providing administrative support to businesses.
  • This admin personal statement clearly demonstrates that the individual is aware of all the challenges that administrators face; working in a busy working environment, handling multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising tasks and achieving the highest standard of work.

Customer service CV profile

  • The candidate indicates that they are able to resolve customer enquiries and complaints face-to-face, over the phone or via email. This ability enables them to work in a variety of different job settings, i.e. a call centre, on the shop floor or at a desk.
  • Their statement contains a tangible example of accomplishment (i.e. successfully resolving 150 customer enquiries or complaints).

Media CV profile

  • The candidate has included many examples of their previous work experience and competencies in the field. Any employer interested in hiring an experienced camera operator will most certainly be impressed and continue reading the remainder of their CV.

Healthcare CV profile

  • The candidate highlights that they are able to work with a variety of different people, something which is essential as physiotherapists will be working with people from all backgrounds and ages.
  • The statement includes personal qualities that are important to have as a physiotherapist, such as being caring and friendly. Although some careers advisors do not recommend generic words such as ‘caring’ and ‘friendly’, it is nevertheless recommended to include them if they truly reflect your personality and if the rest of the personal statement contains specific information which is not generic in nature.

Writer CV profile

  • This profile is short and punchy, increasing the chances that it will be read in full by the prospective employers
  • The candidate highlights their career achievements by stating that their works have been accepted and published by leading newspapers and magazines – a testimony to the high quality of their work.

Science CV profile

  • This statement is short and to the point; highlighting all the important information such as the candidates work experience, expertise and some personal qualities and characteristics.

Do I need to include a personal statement on my CV? No, it is entirely optional to include a personal profile on your CV. However, it is generally recommended to include one, particularly as it serves as a little “About me” section at the top of your CV. Every written document has an introduction, why shouldn’t a CV?

Can I use the first person tense in my statement? Yes, the first and third person tenses are both fine to use – but not both. Decide on the one tense and stick to it.

Where should I include the profile statement on my CV There is no fixed place in which you should put your personal profile. Some candidates place it at the bottom of their CVs. Ideally, you should position it at the top of your CV.

What is the most important thing to include on a personal profile? Real-world examples and tangible performance indicators, for example; increased sales by x percent, managed x number of people, won such-and-such awards, improved productivity by x percent, etc. These types of information are highly valuable, as opposed to saying that you are the “best salesperson in the country” and not backing it up with any evidence!

Need help with other sections of your CV?

While you’re still here – don’t forget to check out our amazing How to write a CV guide for more practical tips on writing your perfect CV or this useful resource.

Working on your CV? Awesome!

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A resume makes your first impression before a recruiter. Therefore, it needs to be highly effective as many applicants might be hustling for the same position you are applying for.

You can write an engaging resume opening statement to impress the recruiter and beat your competitors in the resume screening round.

Most recruiters consider this section as an important part. Hence, you need to pay keen attention while writing your resume opening statement.

Considering this, we are answering some fundamental queries related to the resume opening statement in this guide. Here you will get useful answers to these questions:

  • What is a resume opening statement?
  • How to write a resume objective?
  • What should you include in your resume introduction?
  • What should you avoid while writing a resume introduction?
  • When can you avoid writing a resume opening statement?

What is a Resume Opening Statement?

A resume opening statement is the first thing that most recruiters read in a resume. No matter if your resume is checked by a machine or a human, the resume opening statement is the most important element of it.

We can divide the resume opening statement into three types:

Resume Summary Statement

A resume summary statement will present you as a brand before the recruiter. In addition, it will highlight the essential information of your resume with your professional strengths.

You can mention your skills, qualities, and professional achievements related to the targeted job profile in your resume summary statement.

Your resume summary must not exceed 6 lines, and you should use easy-to-read English language while writing it.

Also Read: How to write a resume summary?

Resume Objective Statement

A resume objective statement is suitable for entry-level professionals who do not have anything to show as professional experience.

The resume objective must convince the recruiter that you know your goals and have industry-specific skills. In addition, your resume objective must match your targeted position to prove your worth before the recruiter.

Resume Offering Statement

A resume offering statement is opposite from a resume objective statement as it focuses on the job requirements.

In this type, you will be writing about your skills and accomplishments align with the Job requirements.

It puts more impact on the recruiter, as every hiring professional will prioritize a person addressing company needs rather than describing personal objectives.

Also Read: How to write a resume objective?

How to Write Your Resume Opening Statement?

You might consider referring to the resume summary examples and resume objective examples available online while writing your resume introduction. However, without proper guidance, you will end up more confused.

Considering this, we have crafted some practical steps to follow while making your resume opening statement:

  • Use easy English language and avoid complex vocabulary
  • Start with your job title and mention your experience
  • Describe your strengths, skills, and achievements
  • Quantify your information wherever possible
  • Align your information with the targeted profile to validate your potential
  • Do not write more than 6 lines as a resume opening statement
Also Read: How to write personal statement in a resume?

What to Include in Your Resume Opening Statement?

The resume opening statement must be impressive to beat other applicants. Hence, you must ensure the availability of these points in your resume opening statement to emphasize its effectiveness:

  • Qualification
  • Accomplishments

If you have 15+ years of experience and your resume opening statement goes beyond six lines, you can mention your information in bullet points to minimize complexity.

General Mistakes to Avoid While Framing Your Resume Opening Statement

Most job applicants make some mistakes while framing their resume opening statements. Unfortunately, these mistakes make their resume opening vague, and they face rejection in many cases.

We have analyzed some resumes and picked those mistakes, which can be emitted o enhance your shortlisting chances in the screening round:

  • Using one resume opening statement for every job application
  • Making it self centered
  • Being Vague
  • Lengthy paragraph
  • Invaluable Content

When Don't You Need a Resume Opening Statement?

A good resume opening statement can add great value to your resume. However, you can avoid it in two cases mentioned below:

  • When you have a self-explaining career trajectory

You can avoid a resume opening statement if your work experience and education are aligned with your targeted profile.

  • If you are a student or recent graduate

If you are a student, you will not have any work experience to summarize. Hence, it will be better to showcase your educational qualification upfront along with your industry-specific training or internship details.

Tips to Frame an Impressive Resume Opening Statement

Your resume opening statement will be the first resume section the recruiter might notice. Hence, it must be engaging, impressive, and convincing to prove your eligibility for the applied job profile.

You can follow these below-given tips to write a job-winning resume opening statement for your next job switch:

  • Do Not Duplicate Achievements

Try to mention your achievements that are not present in any other section of your resume. You can connect your skills and qualities with other sections but unique achievements will make your resume openings statement more attractive.

  • Review The Job Description & Resume

We recommend you read the job description and other resume sections thoroughly before writing the resume opening statement. The job description will tell you company requirements. Hence, you must try to write a resume opening statement concerning those requirements.

  • Connect Your Education & Professional Experience

You should connect your resume opening statement with other essential sections of your resume like education and work experience. It will help you maintain the consistency throughout the resume for better results in the recruitment process.

  • Be Result Oriented

You should be specific while writing your accomplishments and capabilities in the resume opening statement. For that, you can quantify your achievements wherever possible with actual figures.

  • Use Technical Keywords

Try to add technical keywords mentioned in the job description to your resume opening statement. For example, if the job description says that the company is looking for a professional with XYZ certification, don't hesitate to add that to your objective statement.

  • Eliminate Buzzwords

Try to avoid buzzwords as much as you can while writing your resume summary or objectives. For example, if you are passionate about coding, you can save it for your cover letter. Showcase the statistics on how your skills and abilities helped your company improve profits.

Don't pull your resume objective statement too much. Instead, try to be concise and mention only highlighting details and achievements of your career.

  • Proofread Twice

Everyone makes mistakes, but wise ones check their work on completion and rectify them on time. Hence, you should proofread your resume introduction twice after writing it to rectify small punctuation mistakes or spelling errors.

Key Takeaways

A resume opening statement can impress the recruiter and boost your shortlisting chances if you frame it elegantly. These points will help you to write a professional summary for resume in 2022:

  • Use simple English language and avoid complex vocabulary to improve readability
  • Do not exceed more than 5 lines while writing your resume opening statement
  • Add technical keywords picked from the job description to your resume introduction
  • Mention your current profile, experience, skills, and achievements in your resume opening statement
  • Proofread your resume objective statement after writing it to rectify errors

You can also check out Hiration’s 360-degree Career Service Platform to build a professional resume. It comes with 24/7 chat support to assist you during your entire resume and cover letter building process. Apart from this, our experts will always be available at [email protected] for every career-related queries.

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opening statement example on resume

Examples

Resume Opening Statement

Ai generator.

opening statement example on resume

Applying for jobs regardless if you are a student, a fresh graduate, with experience or on a managerial level can be time consuming especially if you have no idea how to wow your future employers. Resumes are also important when applying so you must be careful what to write there. Even those with experience may agree that finding other jobs can be sheer luck. To solve this issue, here are some 6+ Resume Opening Statement Examples that may help you.

6+ Resume Opening Statement Examples

1. chronological resume opening statement.

Chronological Resume Opening Statement

2. Formal Resume Opening Statement

Formal Resume Opening Statement

3. Undergraduates Resume Opening Statement

Undergraduates Resume Opening Statement

Size: 989 KB

4. Sample Resume Opening Statement

Sample Resume Opening Statement

Size: 860 KB

5. Resume Opening Personal Statement

Resume Opening Personal Statement

Size: 161 KB

6. Student Resume Opening Statement

Student Resume Opening Statement

Size: 53 KB

7. Resume Opening Statement Format

Resume Opening Statement Format

Size: 191 KB

Defining Resume

A resume is a formal document that is used by job applicants. In a resume you will find the applicant’s summary of objectives, work experience, interests, educational background. 

Expectations in an Opening Statement for Student

It goes without saying, finding jobs while studying can be tough. But having the extra income as well as the experience can be beneficial for you. So here are some expectations to find in an opening statement for students.  

  • Educational Background 
  • Job Position
  • Experience if any

Tips on Writing an Opening Statement for Students

  • Be honest: when an employer asks you a series of questions , at least be honest. They are more likely to understand your intentions if you are honest. Also you are more likely to get the job you wish as well. Be honest in what you are writing in your educational background and experience. Do not put any experience if you do not have any.
  • Keep it professional: Watch your tone.
  • State your educational background: Your employers would often ask for this information. Write it down.
  • Follow the format: When writing the opening statement, follow the format .

Tips for Opening Statement for Accounting

  • Follow the format : As there are different formats for different types of resumes, follow the format for your chosen field.
  • Do not brag : Do not brag about your work experience on paper.
  • Make a list: List all the necessary details. Your name, objectives, work experience, educational background, other information
  • Short and concise : Only add the necessary details, any other that is not meant for the opening statement, leave it.
  • Other information : Any other information you wish to add, may be added after all the important details are written down.

Tips for Opening Statement for Management

  • List your work experiences: Listing them down in chronological order is easier for your employers to trace how many years experience you have in your field.
  • Make your Opening Statement: Show off in a professional way. Write your three objectives regarding your job application.
  • Explain: Explain why you want this job and how it would benefit you and their company.
  • Follow the format:
  • Write the important details:  List down all the important details before the objective, work history and educational background. This includes your name, your address, your contact details.

I am a student and I want to impress my future employer, should I write down any type of experience even if it’s only a few months?

Yes. Even if your experience may be little, you may write it down. The complete information.

How many years of experience do I need to be considered the managerial level?

This may depend with some companies, but most prefer you to have at least 5 plus years experience in your field to be considered the managerial position.

Why is the opening statement important?

This is where your employers get to see a summary of your resume. Without this, your employer may have difficulty at finding the exact information they need about you.

So here’s a summary of an opening statement for a Resume. The most important ones are the objectives, which shows what you are planning to do for this job application, your work experience if you have any. This is usually for those who are students or fresh graduates. List it down. Your educational background. This matters to some companies so be honest. They prefer you to be honest about your educational background than to put something that may not be true. Why do you need the opening statement ? This is the summary page of your resume.

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20 Resume Summary Examples to Make Writing Your Own Easier

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If you still have an objective statement perched at the top of your resume, it’s time for some serious updating.

That formal (and, honestly, totally useless) blurb of the past has since made way for something way more helpful: a resume summary statement.

So…uhh…what exactly is a summary statement ? It’s a few short lines that go at the top of your document and make it easy for the hiring manager to quickly understand your experience and qualifications. Basically, it gives the highlights of what you bring to the table.

It sounds simple in theory. But when you sit down to actually pull one together, you’ll quickly realize that distilling your skills, experience, and ambitions into a few short sentence fragments is way easier said than done.

Fortunately, a little inspiration can get your creative juices flowing. These 20 resume summary examples (and expert tips) will help you get started—and hopefully keep you from staring at that menacing, blinking text cursor for a half hour.

5 tips for writing your own resume summary statement

Before we get into the actual resume summary examples, let’s set the scene with some more general advice for writing your own professional summary. Here are five tips to keep in mind as you work on this blurb for yourself.

1. Determine if you actually need one

There are certain things you absolutely have to include on your resume—like your name and your contact information. But a summary statement? It’s not necessarily a prerequisite.

Summary statements can be more impactful for certain types of candidates. For example, if you have years of professional history, several disparate experiences that need to be tied together, or an untraditional background that could warrant some explanation, a summary statement can help you set the scene.

If you’re stuck on whether or not to write one, ask yourself this: Is this adding value or is it simply restating things that are said elsewhere on your resume?

2. Say exactly what you do

Your summary statement is included directly at the top of the document, so don’t forget its primary purpose: to introduce you to the hiring manager.

To make a solid introduction , you need to plainly state what you do (without any vague terms or clever phrasing). Are you a software engineer? Say that. A customer support specialist? Use those exact words.

It might seem basic, but explicitly spelling out your job title gives some important context as the hiring manager reviews your history and other qualifications. Plus, it helps them more readily understand what position you’re applying for, just in case your resume gets bounced around or separated from your application.

3. Tailor your summary to the job description

We know you’ve heard the classic “ tailor your resume ” advice before, but it’s oft-repeated for a good reason: It’s important.

Your resume summary is one area that you should be prepared to tweak and rewrite with every single new job you apply for. Take a fine-tooth comb to the job description and pay close attention to certain skills or responsibilities the employer emphasizes.

Are they specifically looking for someone with Salesforce experience? Do they want someone with at least five years of work history under their belt? Incorporate those heavy-hitting qualifications into your summary so that the hiring manager sees them right away without any scrolling or searching.

4. Get specific

To make the most of your summary statement, you need to go beyond buzzwords and resume fluff and provide tangible, impressive qualifications and experiences.

That could mean quantifying your accomplishments where you can—whether that’s your years of experience or an aggressive target you met in a previous position.

Even if you can’t include numbers, skip the generalities and get specific with the value you have to offer. Have you worked with Fortune 500 companies? Are you a whiz with a certain type of industry software? Those could deserve a mention in your summary.

You might find it helpful to sit down and brainstorm a long list of your experiences and accomplishments before trying to write your summary. Whenever you apply for a new job, you can sort through your list and pull out the ones that are most relevant to that specific position. Plus, it’s a solid confidence booster.

5. Keep it short

Your resume summary statement should pack a punch without a lot of wordiness. Remember, it’s a statement and not a full-blown career memoir, so you need to keep it short.

Try to stay as close to three sentences as possible. Any longer than that and you’ll likely lose the interest of the hiring manager before they’ve even made it to your skills or professional history .

Now that you have the lay of the land with regard to summary statements, let’s look at 20 different resume summary statement examples sorted into several categories:

Resume summary examples based on experience level

Resume summary examples based on industry, miscellaneous resume summary examples.

The summary statement (not to mention the entire resume) of someone with 20 years of experience will inevitably look different from someone who’s looking for an entry-level or early-career role. Here are some helpful resume summary examples for all different experience levels.

1. Eager and enthusiastic digital marketing student working toward a BS in Business Administration at Boston University. Extensive coursework and project-based experience with social media content creation, keyword strategy, and GA4. Driven team player with a growth mindset and a can-do attitude.

Entry-level

2. Dedicated and detail-oriented finance graduate with internship experience in financial analysis with a Fortune 100 company. Skilled with financial modeling, data analysis, and Microsoft Excel, with a solid understanding of financial principles and investment strategies.

3. Experienced recruiter with four years of experience in successfully identifying and attracting top talent for diverse organizations. Proficient with full-cycle recruitment, from sourcing and screening candidates to conducting interviews and negotiating offers. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, combined with a data-driven approach to optimize recruitment processes and shorten time-to-hire by 20%.

Manager level

4. Accomplished software engineering manager with seven years of experience and a solid background in leading cross-functional teams at Deloitte and Capital One. Expert-level proficiency in database management as well as Python, Java, SQL, and C#. Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget while nurturing the professional growth of engineering teams.

Senior level

5. Highly accomplished and strategic senior-level VP of Human Resources with a decade of progressive leadership in driving HR excellence within diverse organizations. Proven expertise in developing and implementing innovative talent acquisition, employee development, and workforce relations initiatives. Passionate about fostering a culture of inclusion, engagement, and organizational growth.

Executive or C-suite level

6. Results-driven Chief Financial Officer with an extensive, 16-year track record of successfully optimizing financial operations and driving profitability for both leading corporations and expansion-stage startups. Adept at strategic financial planning, risk management, and cost control measures, resulting in substantial revenue growth. Proven ability to lead high-performing finance teams and collaborate with executives to shape and execute long-term financial strategies.

Different industries value different qualifications. If you’re applying for a marketing position, you’ll emphasize your creativity. But if your career’s in finance, you’ll likely prioritize compliance and your attention to detail. Here are a few industry-specific resume summary examples to give you some more targeted direction and inspiration.

Engineering

7. Results-oriented mechanical engineer with eight years of experience in product design and development with Siemens. Proficient in designing and optimizing mechanical systems, with a track record of improving product efficiency and reliability. Eager to leverage technical expertise and leadership skills to manage and mentor engineering teams in achieving organizational goals.

8. Creative and inquisitive software developer with two years of experience in designing, developing, and debugging software applications. Proficient in Python, Java, and C++ and committed to writing clean, efficient code that meets client and project requirements. Quick learner, dedicated team player, and relentless problem solver.

9. Motivated and detail-oriented entry-level financial associate with one year of internship experience at BlackRock. Proficient in financial data analysis, portfolio management support, and client relationship building. Recognized by professors and internship managers for a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.

10. Accomplished financial controller with an impressive 22-year career in property and casualty insurance. Adept at overseeing financial operations, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance to ensure the financial stability and growth of organizations. Proven track record of implementing effective financial strategies, leading high-performing teams, and providing invaluable insights to drive informed decision-making within the insurance sector.

Human resources

11. Experienced HR manager with over a decade of experience overseeing HR operations, fostering a positive workplace culture, and driving organizational growth. Skilled at employee development and HR policy implementation, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and employee wellbeing.

12. Passionate HR assistant with one year of experience at Bombas and proficiency in Workday. Skilled at providing administrative support for all types of recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations activities. Conscientious communicator, empathetic listener, and driven problem solver.

13. Editorial-minded marketer and communications strategist transforming the way brands interact with audiences through content. With over seven years of experience at consumer startups, media companies, and an agency, brings a thoughtful perspective and blend of creative chops and digital data-savvy. Entrepreneurial at heart and a team player recognized for impassioned approach and colorful ideas.

14. Award-winning journalist and digital producer offering extensive experience in social media content curation, editing, and storytelling. Adept at transforming complex topics into innovative, engaging, and informative news stories.

15. High-achieving enterprise software account manager driven to increase sales in established accounts while reaching out to prospects. Help Fortune 500 companies gain a competitive edge and increase revenue by identifying customer needs, providing recommendations, and implementing technology products that solve problems and enhance capabilities.

16. Results-driven sales manager with four years of experience driving revenue growth for high-performing B2B software sales teams. Skilled at developing and executing strategic sales plans, nurturing client relationships, and achieving sales targets through effective leadership and collaboration .

17. Eager sales associate with a keen focus on new business development, leveraging strong interpersonal and communication skills to identify and pursue sales opportunities. Proven track record of expanding client bases, building lasting customer relationships, and exceeding sales targets by at least 10% every quarter.

Whether you’re making your comeback from a longer career break or are making a jump to an entirely new role or industry, there are certain situations that require a bit more explanation. Fortunately, your summary statement allows you to go beyond the confines of bullet points and add a little more color to your professional story . Here are a few examples to see that in action.

Returning from a career break

18. Experienced customer support specialist with five years of proven expertise in delivering exceptional service and resolving customer inquiries across industries. Returning to the workforce after a rewarding three-year break focused on family. Unwavering enthusiasm to contribute strong communication and organizational skills to a dynamic, customer-centric team.

Making a career change

19. Content marketing professional with three years of experience, now transitioning into the user experience field. Strong background in data-driven decision making, content strategy and design, and customer engagement. Dedicated to leveraging unique skills and non-traditional experiences to create user-centered digital experiences that drive business growth.

Making an internal move within your company

20. Over three years of experience as an administrative support specialist with Allstate. Eager to leverage organizational skills, attention to detail, and deep familiarity with company culture to transition into an HR assistant role.

Stop sweating over your resume summary statement

Your resume summary statement seems simple enough in theory. It’s just a few quick sentences, right? But that’s exactly what makes it so challenging. It feels impossible to condense all of your skills, experiences, and accomplishments into a couple of powerful and punchy sentence fragments.

The above resume summary examples will help you get your own wheels turning. And if you’re really struggling, ask yourself this: If you could only tell the hiring manager three to five things about yourself, what would they be? Those belong in your summary statement.

opening statement example on resume

195 Resume Power Words That Will Get You Hired (+ Examples)

Dave Fano

3 key takeaways

  • Power words in resumes can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers.
  • Tailor your power words to your specific industry and job role for maximum effectiveness.
  • Teal’s AI Resume Builder helps make every resume bullet point impactful with AI.

Power words are to resumes what headlines are to a newspaper—they highlight key details and orient the reader. Resume action words grab the attention of the hiring manager and applicant tracking systems—increasing your odds of standing out.

In this guide, you'll learn 195 resume power words, how to use them effectively, and the nuances of industry-specific power powers to help you craft a compelling resume that lands job interviews.

Struggling to land interviews? Write a more impactful resume with Teal's resume builder AI .

What are resume power words?

Resume power words are strong, descriptive words that highlight your skills, achievements, and qualifications. These words help you make an impact because they: 

  • Grab attention: They draw the reader's eye to your key accomplishments.
  • Convey confidence: You appear self-assured and capable by using assertive language.
  • Showcase specificity: Power words are precise and help hiring managers skim your resume without missing important details.
  • Improve ATS performance: Power words often align with keywords that applicant tracking systems are programmed to identify. This increases your chances of passing initial screenings. 

195 resume power words to supercharge your application

To make your resume stand out, use words that showcase your achievements. Here's a list of resume power words designed to help your application leave a lasting impression on hiring managers.

Resume action verbs

Strong action verbs communicate your exact responsibility in a job role. They help hiring managers assess your accomplishments in context. Here are 100 powerful verbs that can make each bullet point on your resume more compelling.

  • Spearheaded
  • Orchestrated

Communication

  • Articulated

Problem-solving

  • Troubleshot
  • Streamlined
  • Conceptualized

Achievement

  • Outperformed
  • Accelerated
  • Investigated
  • Benchmarked

Improvement

  • Coordinated
  • Administered
  • Consolidated

Customer service

  • Implemented

Project management

  • Facilitated

Collaboration

Accomplishment, descriptive adjectives.

The right adjectives can paint a vivid picture of the candidate's personal qualities and strengths. These 50 descriptive words will help you make an impact.

  • Collaborative
  • Resourceful
  • Enterprising
  • Conscientious
  • Accomplished
  • Results-oriented
  • Detail-oriented

Industry-specific buzzwords

Each industry has its own language, and using the right buzzwords can demonstrate your expertise and familiarity with the field. These 45 industry-specific terms can help you speak directly to hiring managers in your chosen field.

  • Machine learning
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Risk management
  • Quantitative analysis
  • Content marketing
  • Brand equity
  • Conversion rate
  • Customer acquisition
  • Telemedicine
  • Electronic health records (EHR)
  • Patient-centered care
  • Clinical trials
  • Population health
  • Differentiated instruction
  • Blended learning
  • Formative assessment
  • Inquiry-based learning

Human resources

  • Talent acquisition
  • Employee engagement
  • Diversity and inclusion
  • Performance management
  • Succession planning
  • Due diligence
  • Intellectual property
  • Arbitration

Manufacturing

  • Lean manufacturing
  • Supply chain management
  • Quality assurance
  • Just-in-Time (JIT)

Environmental

  • Sustainability
  • Renewable energy
  • Carbon footprint
  • Circular economy
  • Green technology

How to use power words effectively in your resume

Now, you can’t just replace regular words with their “powerful synonyms” and call it a day. You have to place them strategically to gently compel the reader or impress hiring managers. Here’s how:

Identifying key responsibilities in job postings can help you tailor your resume effectively, ensuring alignment between your skills and the specific demands of the job.

Using power words effectively requires strategy and balance. Here’s how to make the most of them in your resume.

Tailor power words to job descriptions

To maximize your chances of getting noticed, align power words closely with the specific job description:

1. Analyze the job posting: Identify key skills, qualifications, and responsibilities emphasized in the listing.

2. Highlight relevant keywords: Note industry-specific terms and power verbs used in the description. Tip: Teal's Matching Mode does this for you.

Teal Matching Mode feature

3. Match your experiences: Select power words that accurately describe your achievements and align with the job requirements.

4. Incorporate naturally: Weave these words into your resume, ensuring they fit contextually and don't appear forced.

5. Prioritize placement: Use the most impactful power words in prominent sections like your professional summary and recent job descriptions. If you're writing a cover letter, sprinkle power words throughout but don't stuff them in any one section.

Balance action words with concrete examples

While power words add impact, they must be supported by specific, quantifiable achievements:

  • Start with a power word: Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb.
  • Follow with a specific accomplishment: Provide context and details about what you achieved.
  • Quantify results: Include numbers, percentages, or other measurable outcomes whenever possible.
  • Show impact: Explain how your actions benefited the company or contributed to larger goals.

Power word example in a sentence

  • Weak: Responsible for sales increase.
  • Strong: Spearheaded sales initiative that boosted revenue by 35% in Q3, outperforming targets by 20%.

Avoid overuse and maintain authenticity

While power words are effective, overuse can diminish their impact and make your resume seem insincere:

  • Use variety: Avoid repeating the same power words throughout your resume.
  • Be truthful: Only use words that accurately reflect your experiences and abilities.
  • Balance with simpler language: Mix power words with more straightforward language to maintain readability.
  • Consider context: Ensure the power words you choose are appropriate for your industry and career level.
  • Read aloud: Review your resume by reading it out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or overuse of power words.

Replacing weak words with power words

Not all words are created equal when it comes to your resume. By replacing weak, vague words with stronger alternatives, you can create a more impactful narrative. Here’s how to make those crucial swaps:

Common weak words to avoid

Frequently used weak words can dilute the impact of a resume by making your accomplishments seem vague or unimpressive. Here are some common weak words and why they are ineffective:

  • Responsible for : Implies duty, not action
  • Helped : Lacks specificity and doesn’t highlight your role
  • Worked on : Vague and does not convey the impact of your initiative
  • Assisted with : Implies a secondary role, not leadership
  • Participated in : Does not show your direct contributions or the extent of your role
  • Job duties included : Focuses on tasks rather than achievements
  • Familiar with : Suggests a basic understanding and not proficiency
  • Involved in : Does not clarify your specific role
  • Handled : Too general; does not indicate outcomes
  • Dealt with : Vague and non-specific

Power word alternatives

Replace weak words with powerful alternatives to make your resume more dynamic and impactful. Here’s a list of common weak words and their power word alternatives:

List of resume power words like "managed" and "led"

Examples of how to rewrite sentences using power words:

Weak: Responsible for managing team projects. Strong: Orchestrated cross-functional team projects, consistently delivering results 15% ahead of schedule. ‍ ‍ Weak: Helped with customer service issues. Strong: Resolved complex customer service issues, achieving a 98% satisfaction rate and reducing escalations by 30%. Weak: Worked on marketing campaigns. Strong: Developed and executed integrated marketing campaigns, driving a 25% increase in customer engagement.

Industry-specific power word examples

Tailoring your resume with industry-specific power words can draw the reader's attention to relevant achievements. These examples show how to align your language with the expectations and standards of various fields.

Technology and IT

In the world of technology and IT, precision and clarity are key. Here’s a selection of power words that can help you articulate your technical expertise and accomplishments.Power words

  • Architected

Sample resume statements

  • Architected scalable cloud infrastructure, reducing downtime by 99% and cutting operational costs by 30%.
  • Debugged complex legacy code, improving system performance by 40% and eliminating critical security vulnerabilities.

Finance and accounting

Accuracy and attention to detail are crucial in finance and accounting. These power words will help you highlight your analytical skills and financial acumen:

Power words

  • Diversified
  • Strategized
  • Forecasted quarterly revenue projections with 98% accuracy to aid expansion initiatives.
  • Streamlined accounts payable processes, to reduce  processing time by 35% and eliminate $50,000 in annual late fees.

Marketing and sales

Success in marketing and sales depends on driving engagement and converting opportunities into results. These power words will help you showcase your ability to innovate, persuade, and achieve impressive outcomes:

  • Transformed
  • Revolutionized
  • Launched an innovative social media campaign that led to increased brand engagement by 150% and drove 10,000 new qualified leads.
  • Negotiated strategic partnerships with key industry players, resulting in a 40% boost in annual revenue and expanded market share.

Healthcare and medical

In the healthcare and medical sectors, your resume usually needs to reflect both your technical skills and your dedication to patient care. These power words emphasize your expertise in delivering quality healthcare and improving patient outcomes.

  • Rehabilitated
  • Collaborated
  • Implemented new patient care protocols, reducing average hospital stay duration by two days and improving patient satisfaction scores by 25%.
  • Researched and introduced cutting-edge treatment methods, resulting in a 40% increase in positive outcomes for chronic condition management.

Education and teaching

Educators are not just teachers—they are mentors and leaders shaping the future. Use these power words to highlight your contributions to student learning, curriculum development, and educational excellence.

  • Differentiated
  • Developed and implemented inquiry-based science curriculum, increasing student engagement by 45% and improving standardized test scores by 30%.
  • Mentored struggling students through targeted intervention programs, resulting in an 80% improvement in academic performance over one semester.

How to add power words to different resume sections using AI

Strategically incorporating power words throughout your resume can make it seem more personalized and human. Here's how Teal helps:

Professional summary

The professional summary is your chance to make a strong first impression. Use power words to concisely convey your value proposition:

Example: "Dynamic marketing strategist with a proven track record of developing innovative campaigns that drive engagement and boost ROI. Skilled in leveraging data analytics to optimize performance and deliver measurable results across diverse industries."

You can add a professional summary by using Teal’s in-built summary generator. Follow these steps: 

  • Import your existing resume into the Resume Builder

Import your LinkedIn profile or create a resume from scratch in minutes if you don't have one. Your summary will be more accurate if you provide more details about your career. 

  • Update your work experiences and add achievements

Be sure to include multiple accomplishments related to your recent roles for the best results from the Resume Summary Generator.

Teal's professional summary feature using AI

  • Generate your resume summary with AI

Save the AI-generated resume summaries to your Teal Resume Builder.

  • Review and regenerate your summary

By clicking "Re-generate with AI", you can generate a new professional summary based on the existing settings. 

You can save multiple resume summaries so you can use different ones for different applications. 

Work experience

In your work experience section, use power words to highlight your achievements and responsibilities.

Teal's AI Assistant makes this easy, automatically adding power powers to the beginning of every bullet point.

  • Before: Responsible for managing team and completing projects.
  • After: Spearheaded a cross-functional team of 12, delivering complex projects 20% under budget and one week ahead of schedule.
  • Before: Helped with customer service and solved problems.
  • After: Resolved critical customer issues, achieving a 98% satisfaction rate and reducing churn by 15%.

Skills section

Enhance your skills section by using power words that align with industry-specific competencies:

  • Proficient in data visualization and predictive modeling techniques
  • Adept at agile project management methodologies
  • Skilled in negotiating high-stakes contracts and partnerships

Teal resume with skills column

Achievements and accomplishments

Use power words to make your achievements and resume stand out:

  • Pioneered company-wide sustainability initiative, reducing carbon footprint by 30% and generating $2M in cost savings.
  • Orchestrated merger and acquisition strategy, resulting in 50% market share growth within 18 months.
  • Revolutionized customer onboarding process, slashing time-to-value by 60% and boosting retention rates by 25%.

The impact of power words on applicant tracking systems (ATS)

In today’s job market, your resume must pass through ATS before reaching human eyes. Understanding how power words interact with these systems can give you a crucial edge in landing an interview.

How ATS process power words

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) play a crucial role in the initial screening of resumes. Here’s how they interact with power words:

  • Keyword matching: ATS scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job description.
  • Relevance scoring: Resumes are ranked based on the presence and frequency of relevant terms.
  • Contextual analysis: Advanced ATS can understand the context in which words are used, not just their presence.
  • Skill identification: Power words often signal specific skills or experiences that match job requirements.

Strategies for ATS-friendly power word usage

To ensure your resume is both ATS-friendly and impactful:

  • Incorporate relevant keywords: Use keywords from the job description naturally throughout your resume.
  • Balance power words and keywords: Mix industry-standard terms with relevant power words.
  • Avoid overstuffing: Don’t overuse keywords or power words to the point of reducing readability.
  • Use standard formatting: Stick to simple, ATS-compatible formatting to ensure all keywords and power words are recognized.

Measuring the effectiveness of your power words

Crafting the perfect resume requires continuous refinement. A/B testing and gathering feedback are essential for measuring the impact of your power words and ensuring your resume resonates with employers.

A/B testing your resume

A/B testing your resume can help determine the effectiveness of different power word usage:

  • Create variants: Develop two versions of your resume, each using different sets of power words.
  • Submit both versions: Apply to similar jobs with both resume versions.
  • Track responses: Monitor the response rate from employers for each version.
  • Analyze results: Determine which version received more positive feedback or job interview invitations.

Gathering feedback

Professional feedback is crucial for refining your resume:

  • Ask for reviews: Request input from career coaches, mentors, or peers.
  • Use online services: Utilize professional resume review services for expert advice.
  • Interpret feedback: Analyze the feedback received to understand how your power word usage can be improved.

Power up your career with resume power words

To create a distinct resume, use words that pack a punch and highlight your achievements with precision. Power words tailored to the job and industry can elevate your resume’s impact. But remember, balance is crucial—combine these words with metrics and case studies to avoid sounding superficial.

Start by refining your resume and adding or improving power words where needed. Teal’s AI-powered Resume Builder can streamline this process, helping you craft a resume that grabs attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many power words should you include in your resume.

Balance is crucial when incorporating power words into your resume. Aim for one to two power words per bullet point to maintain a strong yet natural tone. This ensures your resume is impactful without appearing exaggerated.

Can using too many power words hurt your chances of getting hired?

Yes, overusing power words can hurt your chances by making your resume seem insincere or cliché. It’s important to use power words genuinely to reflect your true experiences and achievements. Mixing power words with straightforward language helps maintain a natural flow.

Are there any power words you should avoid in your resume?

Avoid overused or cliché power words like "committed dynamic," "synergy," "hardworking," and "go-getter." These terms can make your resume seem generic and unimpressive. Instead, choose more industry-specific and impactful alternatives that accurately describe your skills and achievements.

How can you use power words if you're just starting your career?

If you're starting your career, focus on highlighting transferable skills gained from internships, volunteer work, or academic projects. Use power words to emphasize your enthusiasm and potential for growth. For example, instead of "participated in a marketing project," say "spearheaded a marketing project that increased social media engagement by 20%."

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Resume Guidelines and Samples

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Resume Samples

Purpose of resume (overview), resume header, education section of resume, experience section of resume, skills section of resume, resume checklist.

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Your resume is generally a one-page document that clearly presents your current and past experiences and accomplishments so that your reader can understand the unique value that you bring to the table. As you begin to draft your resume, consider the following. Your resume is:

  • Your first opportunity to make an impression. Step back from the details to consider what story you want to communicate.
  • Foremost, about the content and demonstrating your experiences. Begin by writing your resume in Google docs or Word, and avoid using templates that focus on form over content.
  • A living document that you will tailor to specific positions and will evolve throughout your career.
  • Not a laundry list of every experience; it is a carefully curated list of relevant experiences. 
  • Easy to read. Consider font type and size, formatting, and a balance of text and white space.
  • Shared with potential employers as a pdf document.

The header provides your full name and contact information (email address & telephone number). This section should not include personal information (e.g., sex, date of birth, marital status). Items that may be included in your header:

  • Wellesley and/or home address: If you choose both, be sure to label each address accordingly. 
  • Personal website, links to professional social media (Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn) 

If you are a current student or recent alumna, the education section should be just below the heading, with the most recent education listed first. Generally, you should not include your high school on your resume; however, first-year college students may include relevant high school experiences. Necessary information includes:

  • Your institution and its location (City/Town and State) 
  • Your degree (Bachelor of Arts), any major(s) and/or minor(s) 
  • Expected graduation date. 
  • Optional: Study abroad programs and institutions where you cross-registered for classes. 

In this section, provide details about your various experiences, highlighting accomplishments, learning outcomes, and transferable skills. “Experience” is broadly defined and can include full- or part-time work, summer jobs, internships, research, academic projects, campus leadership, volunteer opportunities, etc. Describe your experiences using strong, specific verbs, and emphasize the results and impact of your work. You can create separate and distinct Experience sections to highlight those positions or skills (e.g., Research, Leadership, Extracurricular, or Volunteer). 

  • List experiences in reverse chronological order (most recent first). 
  • Include name and location of the organization where this experience took place and the title of your role. 
  • Include start and end date for your experience. If it is ongoing, list your end date as “Present.” 
  • Describe your experience in accomplishment statements, using short phrases starting with a strong verb. Be specific and quantify your experiences whenever you can. 
  • Create 2-5 accomplishment statements for each experience. 

This section provides an immediate view of the kinds of tasks you are ready to undertake. While you will want to be selective and only list relevant skills, these might range from technical skills, like expertise using a digital tool, to experience-based skills, like project management or database design. This section can also include certifications, languages, etc. In general, it’s best to avoid general skills like people skills, time management or critical thinking. As this section grows, you may divide it into several distinct skills sections, like Software Expertise, Language Skills, Teaching Skills, Design Skills, etc.

Is your resume... 

☐ Easy to read? 

☐ Simple, clean font (e.g. Times, Arial, Garamond) 

☐ 10 to 12 pt. font 

☐ 0.5 to 1 in. margins 

☐ Error free (grammar & spelling)? 

☐ Devoid of personal pronouns (I, me, my, we)? 

☐ Concise? 

☐ Reverse chronological? 

☐ Tailored to the type(s) of opportunities you are seeking?

Does your resume… 

☐ Effectively communicate your relevant skills and experience? 

☐ Effectively communicate your personal brand? 

☐ Use consistent formatting for dates, job accomplishments, etc.? 

☐ Display your strongest or most relevant qualifications near the top of the page or section? 

☐ Highlight all your related/transferable experience? 

☐ Utilize action verbs and results-oriented language to describe your experience?

☐  Display on the screen without formatting errors as a pdf attachment?

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How to Write an Application Letter (Sample Included!)

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opening statement example on resume

How to Write an Application Letter (Sample Included!) was originally published on The Muse , a great place to research companies and careers. Click here to search for great jobs and companies near you.

Whether you’re applying for a job , internship , scholarship, or volunteer position, a well-crafted application letter can help you stand out. It’s your chance to introduce yourself and make a strong first impression that sets you apart from the competition.

But how do you write an application letter that’s effective? Below, we’ll explain when to use this method of introduction and give you practical tips on writing one that gets results. Plus, we’ve included a sample application letter and a template to help you create the perfect document for any opportunity.

Apply for the role of your dreams! One of these open jobs on The Muse could be the perfect fit »

What is an application letter?

An application letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. It’s a crucial part of an application for work as it introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications.

While some companies request it at the beginning of the application process, others might ask for it later, or not at all—but it’s always a valuable addition.

Unlike a resume, which outlines your work history, a written application allows you to elaborate on your achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for. It is a much more specific way to introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good fit for the job.

How is an application letter different from a cover letter?

Some people use the terms “application letter” and “cover letter” interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two.

An application letter serves as your formal introduction to a potential employer. It highlights your interest in the role, your qualifications, and why you’re a good fit for the position. It’s a standalone document that provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and experiences.

On the other hand, a cover letter is usually more concise than an application letter and serves as a complementary document to your resume, providing additional context to your job application. It elaborates on specific points from your resume and explains how your background aligns with the job requirements.

Also, job application letters follow a more formal structure, often resembling a traditional business letter. They include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top. An application letter is usually addressed to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. While cover letters also have a professional tone, they can be less formal in structure.

Finally, the application letter is used primarily for job applications, internship applications, scholarship applications, and volunteer positions. In contrast, the cover letter is specifically used to accompany a resume during job applications.

When do you need to send an application letter?

Application letters are typically required when applying for jobs. However, there are other scenarios where you might need one:

  • Scholarship applications: When applying for scholarships, this kind of letter can help you stand out by showcasing your academic achievements and career goals .
  • Volunteer positions: Some volunteer organizations require an application letter to understand your motivations and skills relevant to the position.
  • Internship applications: Internships often require this document to understand your interest in the role and what you hope to gain from the experience.
  • Networking purposes: Sending one when reaching out to potential mentors or industry professionals can help you establish a connection and explain your career aspirations.

7 tips on how to write a job application letter

Writing an effective application letter involves more than just summarizing your resume. Here are seven tips to write yours:

1. Research the company—at least do a quick Google search!

Before you start writing, research the company to understand its culture, values, and needs. Tailor your letter to align with the company’s mission and the job description. There is nothing better for an HR professional than feeling that you don’t just want any job; you want to work with them for specific reasons, such as X and Y.

“Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible,” says Mike Chappell, CEO of FormsPal , who has more than a decade of experience reviewing application letters. “This shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the company.”

2. Use a professional format and design

Your application letter should follow a formal letter of application format. Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top of the letter.

There are many layouts online that you can use. Find one that represents your style and complements your resume.

3. Make it engaging from the start with a strong opening

Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Mention the position you’re applying for and where you found the job listing. If you were referred by someone, include their name. Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role.

4. Highlight your qualifications—what you can’t fully convey in your resume

In the body of your applicant letter, highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. “Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and how they relate to the job you’re applying for,” Chappell says. “ Quantifiable results can make a strong impact.”

Avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, expand on your most relevant experiences.

5. Show enthusiasm and genuine interest

Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the role and the company. Show your excitement for the opportunity. Explain why you are specifically interested in this job and how it aligns with your career goals.

6. Keep it concise

While it’s important to provide enough detail, your application letter should be concise. Aim for one page, with three to four paragraphs. Be clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary fluff.

7. Proofread carefully

Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression on employers. Carefully proofread your letter before sending it. Consider asking another person to review it as well.

Letter of application sample

Here’s a super complete example of application letter to help you get started:

August 1, 2024

Ms. Jane Doe

Hiring Manager

Innovative Solutions Inc.

456 Maple Avenue

Springfield, IL 62705

Dear Ms. Doe,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at Innovative Solutions Inc., as advertised on your company’s careers page. With more than five years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of successful campaigns, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive impactful marketing strategies.

In my previous role as a Senior Marketing Specialist at Creative Solutions LLC, I led a team in developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My responsibilities included overseeing digital marketing campaigns, analyzing market trends, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with overall business goals. This experience has honed my skills in strategic planning, data analysis, and team leadership.

I am particularly impressed by Innovative Solutions Inc.’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver innovative marketing solutions. Your recent campaign, which utilized artificial intelligence to optimize ad targeting, is a testament to your forward-thinking approach. I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing and campaign management to your team and contribute to similar groundbreaking projects.

My strong analytical skills, combined with my ability to lead and inspire a team, make me a great fit for this role. I am confident that my background and enthusiasm for innovative marketing strategies align well with the needs of Innovative Solutions Inc.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to the continued success of Innovative Solutions Inc.

123 Elm Street

Springfield, IL 62704

[email protected]

(555) 123-4567

Template for an application letter

You can also use the following application format to structure your application letter for a job:

[Recipient’s name]

[Company’s name]

[Company’s address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job title] position at [Company name] as advertised on [Where you found the job listing]. With my background in [Field or industry] and a passion for [Specific aspect of the job or industry], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous company], I developed [Specific skills or achievements]. I successfully [Describe a project or responsibility], which resulted in [Quantifiable result or achievement]. This experience has equipped me with [Relevant skills] that I am eager to bring to [Company name].

I am particularly impressed by [Company name]’s commitment to [Specific company initiative or value], and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working with a team that values [Related value or skill]. I am confident that my skills and experiences align well with the requirements of the [Job title] position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the success of [Company Name].

[Your Name]

[Your address]

[Your email address]

[Your phone number]

Common mistakes to avoid

When writing a letter of application for employment, be aware of these common mistakes:

  • Being too generic: Focus your letter on the specific job and company, and mention detailed information about them. Don’t default to a one-size-fits-all approach or AI-written document. “It is generally best to avoid using generative AI to write your application letters for you,” says Edward Tian, CEO of AI detector GPTZero . “Only you can write about those specific aspects of your identity and experiences in such a personal way.”
  • Focusing too much on yourself: While it’s important to highlight your qualifications, make sure to explain how you can benefit the company. “You can talk about your career goals, college classes that piqued your interest in the type of job you’re applying to—just make sure that they tie into why they make you uniquely qualified or well-positioned for the job,” Tian says.
  • Including irrelevant information: Avoid discussing unrelated jobs or hobbies, for example.
  • Using a casual tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid slang or overly casual language.

Need a bit more guidance in your job search? Read this next: How to Apply for a Job Online: 10 Tips to Stand Out and Land an Interview

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