JobScribble

Resumes often read like job descriptions.  In fact, job seekers often take their job descriptions they were given when the were hired and use the same exact language in their resumes. Often job seekers make the mistake of writing in the 3rd person and keeping language that is not suitable for a resume, such as directives.  For example, "will follow company guidelines".   It is quite evident to the person who is reviewing your resume that you copied your job description. 

While job descriptions are a good place to start to identify your job duties and abilities.  Resumes should not just be a compilation of job tasks.  Instead, include your accomplishments, outcomes, achievements, and/or results of your tasks.  The resumes should also indicate not only what you did, but how you performed your duties. Did you come up with a solution, process or procedure?  What did you improve or fix?  What have you been praised or recognized for?  If possible quantify your accomplishments.  For example,  Initiated and created an effective e-mail marketing campaign which increased membership by 20 percent. 

A great way to emphasize and highlight your accomplishments is to keep your responsibilities together for each job and under that add a heading entitled "Accomplishments" and then list them under the heading.  Use powerful descriptive accomplishment statements which emphasize accomplishments, and reflect talents that your new employer could benefit from.