You're torn on resume detail levels. How do you decide what to include?

The details on one’s resume should be based on the position description. Ask yourself, “What are the requirements of the position to which I am applying?” Then, demonstrate those requirements in the form of quantified data and their impact on your resume. Don’t overcomplicate resume writing. HR, recruiters, and hiring managers want your resume to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and competencies they are looking for. Not the ones you prefer to highlight.

When deciding what to include in your resume, strive to find the right balance between your role and function. Think of your experience as a journey where each project or initiative is a milestone showcasing your growth. Highlight those experiences where you’ve developed new skills, honed your competencies, and demonstrated your ability to achieve synergies with your Key Responsibility Areas (KRA) or Key Performance Indicators (KPI). Frame these experiences in a way that tells the story of your professional evolution. It’s like highlighting the best scenes in a movie trailer—you want to show your progression and the moments where you really shined.

This is where you need to recognize the office you command. For someone with just a couple of years under their belt, detailing duties is crucial—you’re an essential cog in a larger machine. But as you climb the ladder and your responsibilities grow, you’re no longer just part of the machine; you’re steering it. Here, achievements become the true measure of your mettle. They demonstrate how you’ve handled challenging situations and delivered results. Instead of listing daily tasks, focus on what you’ve accomplished. Think of it like a sports highlight reel—don’t just say you played the game, show how you scored the winning goal.

Including personal projects related to your industry can really set you apart. These projects show that you’re willing to go the extra mile and are on the path to becoming a subject matter expert. Success stories from these projects can highlight your initiative and passion for your field. However, be selective about what you include, as the significance of these projects may vary from person to person. It’s like choosing the perfect cherry on top of a sundae—you want it to enhance your profile without overshadowing your core professional experiences.

Recruiters don't have time for detail ☑ Be succint ☑ Focus on achievements ☑ Remove wishy washy content ☑ Be relevant (job spec is a friend) Best of luck 🍀