what to write qualification on resume

How to write a qualifications summary on a resume

The achievements that make you stand out

As an introduction to your resume, the  qualifications summary is a an excellent option to make sure your application stands out  and grabs the attention of a potential employer.

Hiring managers or human resource staff spend hours looking through resumes when they have a vacancy, this can become very tedious when all of the applications they receive have similar work experience or skill sets. That is why learning  how to write a winning qualifications summary for your resume  could be the key to earning you a chance at an interview for your dream job.

Having an attractive,  optimized resume introduction  like a  qualification summary , also known as a  professional profile  or  summary of qualifications , which showcases your strengths in a short, clear section right at the beginning of your resume is a surefire way to capture the reader’s interest.

Read on for a  simple guide on what to include in a qualifications summary on your resume , tips on how to write it and practical qualification summary examples to help you create one of your own.

The qualifications summary tends to be used more often in  functional or combined resume structures  as opposed to the classic  chronological format  but this is not always the case and can be a great addition to any resume.

What is the Qualifications Summary?

Knowing  how to write a qualifications summary for a resume  can mean the difference between an average application and one that stands out from other candidates.

A  qualifications summary is one of three options for a resume introduction  that begins by  showcasing the most relevant and influential aspects of the candidate’s experience,  such as their major achievements, skills and qualifications.

Contrary to the  resume objective  or  summary statement , a qualifications summary is written in  bullet point format , highlighting the most impressive elements of your professional profile ensuring to  focus on the position  being applied to.

There are  different ways to start a resume  and the qualifications summary is an optional section which can be added or replaced depending on each candidate’s needs. The  resume format  you choose to employ and your level of experience, whether you are writing a student, entry-level or  professional resume , will influence your decision to use the qualifications summary or another of the possible resume introductions.

The  qualifications summary on a resume  is a useful tool for candidates whose resumes will likely be reviewed by Applicant Tracking Systems. The reason for this is that ATS software is designed to read through resumes in order to discard any that do not include the keywords that have been programmed for that particular position. This is a subtle reminder for jobseekers to ensure they  use keywords taken from the job description  etc. to detail their abilities and knowledge.

To  write a qualifications summary  which presents the most inviting information about your professional profile, you must ensure that this section  concentrates on the benefits that you can bring to the company or position  in question. That means that it will include your most outstanding achievements and skills which are  relevant to the sector  and role to which you are applying.

A qualification summary on a resume often attracts attention from potential employers  because it makes their life easier. Hiring managers save time and energy usually spent reading through the entire resume by reading the  highlighted qualifications in the summary  and are able to get a basic understanding of what that candidate can offer the business.

Key qualifications to include on your resume

Whether you use a resume template or not, it is worthwhile to have an idea of some of the  key qualifications to include in your resume  to use as a guide.

The following is a  step-by-step guide to help you get a better understanding of how to write a qualification summary for your resume  using these 6 different points:

1. Start with your expertise : Begin by introducing your  years of experience  in the field or in similar positions for  professional resumes . You can indicate a general overview of your responsibilities in these jobs. Mention here any  special courses or training  you have undertaken. For  students or entry-level candidates , you will  include your highest degree  and can emphasize majoring or minoring in a subject, any projects, or your final thesis, as long as it is relevant to the vacancy.

2. Show off your creative side : Explain an instance in which you have  introduced, implemented or created a program or practice  or found a new solution which has been beneficial to the company or association in some way.

3. Prove your efficiency : Include an  example of when you have increased productivity or revenue for the company  by any means such as using resources well, personal effort, saving time or energy, updating, renewing or improving practices.

4. Acknowledgements : Mention any  awards or honors  you have received for your work or collaboration. If you have been commended in any  publications  or been praised for your actions in any way  related to the position or industry  you are applying to, state the source and the reasons for the recognition.

5. Management : Describe any  positions of leadership  you have held, including the number of people under your supervision, any specific management styles you pertain to, or ways in which you have  managed a project or assignment  and seen it through to the end.

6. Interpersonal skills in practice : Finally, also  include an explanation of your interpersonal skills  and communication. This can allude to relationships with coworkers, junior or senior staff, customers, clients or suppliers. Or you could demonstrate your skills in terms of public speaking or giving presentations.

As well as these 6 points which should be addressed as fully and clearly as possible, you can also introduce any other aspects that are  relevant to the position  and you feel would  benefit your application  or would be advantageous to offer the company.

Although it is highly recommended to  focus your attention on quantifiable examples  and the basic information from these points, you can also  include other soft or hard skills or certificates which may be unique to your application , whilst still tailoring your information the position in order to stand out in the process. Learn more about how to include  professional certificates on your resume .

Following these rules and remembering to  tailor your qualification summary to the position  on offer will help you to create a resume that will get noticed for the right reasons.

Remember, if you need a little extra guidance, you can also use an  online resume builder  to help you  construct an effective resume for your ideal job  with an outstanding qualification summary to boot.

Tips for writing a good qualifications summary

Whether you’re just learning  how to write a qualifications summary for your resume  or you just need to give it a new spin, these top tips will help you make the most of this all-important resume tool.

The  qualifications summary on a resume is a very effective tool  for candidates who have an extensive work history either as a professional in that sector or as a  career changer who has transferable skills .

Examples of Qualifications Summaries

To be able to  create an effective qualification summary introduction , check out some of these examples to grasp the structure and style of qualification summaries.

Key Account Manager Qualifications Summary Example

• Sociable – Organized – Goal-oriented
• 5 years experience in customer and client relationship building.
• Exceeded sales targets by more than 60% two years running.
• Landed and managed several individual client accounts worth $100,000+.
• Effectively trained and led team of 8 Sales Executives.
• Received Top Sales Award from company 3 consecutive years.
• Spearheaded new marketing plans with research and media strategies which have improved profits by $2.6 million gross per annum.

Executive Chef Qualifications Summary Example

• Creative – Team player – Excellent time management
• 12 years experience in Michelin star restaurants in NYC and Paris.
• Expertise in French haute cuisine.
• Prepared between 700-1000 covers daily.
• Reinvented menu to improve attendance by 110% and profits.
• Specialist knowledge of FDA requirements.
• Catered for a wide range of 3 and 5-course fine dining galas, fundraising events and festivals.

Entry-Level IT Associate Qualifications Summary Example

• Analytical – Resourceful – Flexible
• Two years experience in Library Helpdesk Technical Assistance.
• Graduate of BSc in Computer and Information Technology with 3.50 GPA.
• Proficient in several programming languages, software applications, operating systems and database management.
• Exceptional troubleshooting skills resulting in an improvement of 30% in issue-resolution.
• Accustomed to fast turn-around times for maintenance and technical tasks.

The qualifications summary on a resume differs from the summary statement simply by the manner of formatting the information included. As seen in these  qualification summary examples , the general layout is what makes the  difference between the summary statement and the qualification summary  as opposed to the content or focus.

If you prefer to offer a paragraph format for your summary or to get extra  resume help with your summary statement,  you can take a look at our guide to writing one to ensure you create the best possible introduction to your resume for your job search.

If you need help putting together your qualifications summary,  ResumeCoach  also offers an  online resume maker  which gives you professional advice and clear, practical examples to follow, to ensure you get the most out of your resume.

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How to Write a Summary of Qualifications on a Resume

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What is a summary of qualifications?

Why include a summary of qualifications, how to write a summary of qualifications, examples of a summary of qualifications, summary of qualifications faq.

A summary of qualifications gives your resume a personality. It tells your story in more detail and makes your resume stand out from the rest. However, they are more beneficial to those in specific situations. Learn what a summary of qualifications is, follow some steps to write your own and view a list of examples and frequently asked questions.

A summary of qualifications or qualifications profile is an optional section often placed at the top of a resume. Within a summary, you can list your achievements, skills and other qualifications and define them in a more in-depth manner. The format of a summary of qualifications uses brief statements to highlight some of your most relevant skills for your industry or field.

Including a summary of qualifications within your resume adds a creative and personalized feeling, making it stand out. This section can generate interest for hiring managers, encouraging them to read further. Summaries are most beneficial to individuals who require an additional explanation for their job search. For example, recent graduates with little experience use this section to explain their focus on studies. Those with transferrable skills might seek a new career in a different industry and their summary explains that in detail.

1. First, collect and include quantifiable data

The first step is to collect quantifiable data that makes your resume stand out. Use percentages or other numerical measurements to explain your previous experience. Some of your options include revenue amounts you saved, time you spent in a position, budget sizes you handled or any simple percentage of increase or decrease you created for improvement. Include this information within your summary of qualifications.

2. Second, summarize your education and experience

The second step involves summarizing your education and overall experience. Introduce your degrees and discuss programs you excelled in. If you’re a recent graduate, include if you earned any recognition such as valedictorian or salutatorian. If you earned any awards throughout your college or professional career, include them as well with a brief summary of details.

3. Third, summarize your skills, licenses or certificates

The third step involves summarizing your skills, licenses, certificates or other noteworthy information. Discuss both hard and soft skills learned during college, internships or an official employment capacity. This includes anything from generic communication skills to specific industry applications and machinery. Introduce any additional training courses you graduated from and special certifications.

4. Then, include job-specific keywords

The fourth step is to include job-specific keywords. Keywords are important on any resume for pleasing applicant tracking systems (ATS). An ATS is a software application that handles recruitment for employers by identifying the best resumes that fit their criteria. Research the position you’re interested in and study the job posting. Identify specific keywords that come up frequently and spread them throughout your resume and your summary. Avoid keyword-stuffing and only place them as essential details to complement your own skills and qualifications.

5. Finally, personalize it

The final step is to personalize it by telling your story. Explain what makes you unique or why you’re an ideal fit for the role. If you’re switching careers, a recent graduate or need an additional explanation, be sure to introduce it thoroughly. The more creative, unique and personal you make the section, the more interesting your resume becomes for employers. Careful editing and rewording may be necessary until you add the right character for the role.

The following list outlines examples of qualification summaries:

Example of a general summary

• Three years of agency experience in digital marketing
• Creative, determined, fast-paced and strategic
• Skills in critical thinking, problem-solving
• Specialized training in Facebook ads, LinkedIn ads and web design
• Four-year degree in marketing with a focus on digital spaces 

Example for a career change

• Award-winning casting manager with 10 years of experience now seeks management in human resources
• High-performing, strategic-thinking, detail-oriented professional with expertise in identifying and recruiting talent
• Four-year film school graduate with a minor in Psychology who effectively communicates with diverse populations
• Excellent skills in assessing needs, generating options and implementing solutions
• Earned certification in HR management as it pertains to the casting career field

Example for advanced experience

• Five years of experience assisting project managers in the field
• 15 years of experience in the construction industry
• Advanced skills and knowledge in team building, building codes, construction laws and budget analysis
• Four-year degree in construction engineering and certified first-aid professional
• Earned additional certification in accounting and bookkeeping

Example for a recent graduate

• Recent graduate with a four-year degree in graphic design
• Creative, determined, dependable
• Works well under pressure with tight deadlines
• Advanced experience with Photoshop and InDesign
• Advanced skills in storyboarding, concept art, logo design and character art

The following list answers some of the most common questions relating to qualification summaries:

Do qualification summaries negatively impact ATS ratings?

A summary of qualifications gives you the opportunity to add more detail and personalization to your resume. Since ATS tracks specific keyword usage, using your summary as a way to express many of those keywords positively impacts ATS ratings. As mentioned previously, however, avoid keyword-stuffing as it may negatively impact your score. 

Can I omit a skills section if I include a summary of qualifications?

Only omit a skills section from your resume if you include all relevant skill information in your summary. If you cannot include or expand upon all of your skills, then keep your skills section for all information you were unable to include. 

Is there a difference between a resume objective and a summary of qualifications?

Resume objectives are often short, including no more than three sentences. They’re meant to be a very brief introduction of the candidate. A summary of qualifications allows you to add more detail and clarification, usually taking more space than the average objective section. You should identify which section has greater benefits for you and your situation but avoid including both sections on your resume.

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Writing a Compelling Qualifications Summary for Your Resume

10 min read

You have different options in terms of how you kick off your resume to grab the attention of prospective employers and help you land interviews. One of those options is a qualifications summary. 

If you choose to include a summary of qualifications on your resume, you want to ensure it’s written in such a way that it grabs an employer’s attention. In this post, we cover:

What is a qualifications summary?

Why include a qualifications summary on your resume, what’s the difference between a resume summary and a qualifications summary, under what circumstances should you include a qualifications summary, how do you format a qualifications summary.

Tips to write a resume qualifications statement

Qualifications summary template

Qualification summary for resume examples

A summary of qualifications concisely represents your key skills, achievements, and experience. Unlike other required resume sections, a qualifications summary is optional, though it can be an excellent way to show hiring managers you’re a viable candidate for the job. It’s generally placed at the top of your resume, just below your contact information and includes your top qualifications for the position. 

We know recruiters and hiring managers only spend seconds on a resume before deciding if they want to learn more. A strategic summary of qualifications allows resume readers to quickly assess whether you’d be a good fit for the job based on the first round of screening criteria. This increases your chances of landing in the “yes” pile vs. your resume going into the trash, assuming you’ve included the best information possible with the proper formatting. 

Many confuse a qualifications summary with a resume summary. The confusion is understandable since a qualifications summary and a resume summary are both essentially a summary of your qualifications. However, how they're written differs, and what they include can also vary slightly. 

A resume summary is three to five brief sentences that highlight your key skills, education, and experience that align with the job description. It's written in paragraph form and placed at the top of your resume, just below your contact information. A resume summary should include at least one key accomplishment and three to five skills from your relevant work experiences. For more information about writing a resume summary with examples, refer to “ 30 Resume Summary Examples that Work in 2024. ”

A qualifications summary also summarizes your key skills, education, and expertise, primarily focusing on the critical qualifications required for the job. The goal is to highlight a diverse range of examples to showcase your abilities and skills. You do this using a bullet-point list with three to seven direct and concise statements. These statements provide room for a few more details front and center on your resume compared to a resume summary. As discussed in more detail later, a qualifications summary includes at least two key accomplishments and relevant skills. It can also include awards, education, and more. 

Now that you know you have options to kick your resume off with a bang, like a resume summary and qualifications summary, which should you choose? Great question.

You might opt for a qualifications summary if you fall under any of these scenarios:

You’re changing careers. When changing careers, a qualification summary is a great way to highlight transferable skills and achievements. Include examples that highlight transferable skills like communication, leadership, problem-solving, project management, and conflict resolution.

You’re a recent college graduate. Sometimes, as a recent college graduate, you don’t have a lot of work experience to include on your resume. As a result, a summary of qualifications can help you grab the attention of employers by highlighting key academic skills and achievements pertinent to success on the job. You can highlight things like academic projects, awards, internships, industry-related memberships, and roles in extracurricular activities.

You have a lot of work experience. If you have an extensive work history, a qualifications summary can serve to highlight the most relevant and highest of achievements so they don’t get lost in other areas of your resume. When choosing what items to incorporate, select the accomplishments and skills you possess that are top requirements for the position. 

Using a qualifications summary is also a personal choice. If, for some reason, you believe that a summary of qualifications stands out better or adds more value to your resume than a resume summary, that's ok, too. Or, if you're on the fence, you can also seek guidance from an expert resume writer . 

A bulleted list is the standard formatting for a qualifications summary. Each bullet should include a significant detail or qualification, like a certification , skill, accomplishment, or project. At most, one to two lines should be used for each bullet, and you don't need to use complete sentences.

Tips to write a resume qualifications summary

So, how do you craft a stellar summary of qualifications to land interviews? Consider the following strategies to help.

Select the right qualifications

The first step in crafting your qualifications summary is selecting which items you’ll include. To do this, first review the job descriptions and make note of the required qualifications - skills, education, experience - that you have. From there, make a list of your achievements, awards, education, and anything else that you might want to include on your resume that’s relevant to the job and highlights your uniqueness. It’s from this list that you’ll pull items to include in your summary of qualifications. 

As you develop your list of three to seven items to incorporate, you’ll want your final list to be a combination of:

A description of your overall expertise and years of experience.

Relevant skills and abilities.

Pertinent awards.

Relevant education , certifications, and training.

At least two top work accomplishments using quantifiable data, when possible, as discussed in the next section. At a minimum, you should include the results achieved from the actions you took. 

Use numbers

It’s one thing to say you did something, and it’s another to actually show what you did with results. As with your Work Experience section that outlines your historical achievements and accomplishments, you want to use as much quantifiable data as possible when crafting your qualifications summary. 

Results backed by data show the value you added in the past and the value you have the potential to add in the future. Include numbers that indicate things like how many you led on a team, the percent increase you achieved for a particular result, the dollar amount saved through an activity, the value of a project, the level of the budget you worked with, and so on.

Begin each achievement with power verbs

Use powerful action verbs to begin your qualification statements that outline achievements. Power verbs, like created, designed, and led, speak to resume readers and showcase your confidence. 

Examples of power verbs include:

Spearheaded

For an extensive list of power verb examples, refer to “ 101 Resume Power Verbs .”

Incorporate keywords

Keywords are beneficial to include in your summary statement for two primary reasons:

They help to increase your relevance to an employer’s ATS, or applicant tracking system , meaning it’s more likely to actually land in the hands of a human reader.

They grab the attention of human readers since the keywords you use should align with key job requirements.

To identify keywords to incorporate in your qualifications summary:

Refer to the job description and highlight the necessary qualifications. Include some of the ones you align with in your qualifications summary. 

Consider industry lingo that might make sense to include. When using acronyms, use both the abbreviation and the spelled-out word. 

Be careful not to overuse keywords, as an ATS might read this as keyword stuffing and shun your resume vs. moving it forward through the application process.

Be active vs. passive

It’s generally better to use active vs passive language for any type of writing, and the same holds true for your resume. Active voice speaks to what you do, is direct, and clearly highlights your accomplishments. Using a passive voice tends to speak to what happens to you, is indirect, and comes across as weaker than the active voice in terms of accomplishments. Here are a couple of examples of each:

Active Voice: Reduced costs by 18% over six quarters

Passive Voice: Costs were reduced by 18% over six quarters

Active Voice: Led team of 10 HR Trainers and achieved 10% increase in training engagement within six months

Passive Voice: A 10% increase in training engagement was achieved within six months while leading a team of 10 HR Trainers

In each example, both sentences convey the same information, but which ones sound more powerful and “active?” The active voice examples include clearer, more concise language and stronger verbs. 

Include what makes you unique

 As you craft your qualifications summary, ensure you incorporate factors that highlight the unique career history and achievements you bring to the job. For example, if you were a teacher, instead of saying something like you’re a “dedicated teacher with five years of experience,” say something like, “Five years of experience educating over 1000 students with a combined 22% increase in standardized test scores in English and Math.” 

In this example, anyone can be a dedicated teacher with experience, but only the individual submitting the resume has the ability to lead and educate 1000 students to achieve a 22% increase in test scores. 

Qualification Summary for resume sample template

Below is a qualifications summary template to guide your list development. You’ll want to begin your list with a description of your expertise, followed by any of the following items listed in the template. Aside from including a description of your expertise and listing at least two accomplishments with the results you achieved, the rest are optional. It’s up to you to determine what is relevant and will speak most to the hiring team based on the guidelines provided above. We also have qualification summary examples to help guide you in the next section.

Qualifications Summary template

[Description of expertise]

[Accomplishment with quantifiable result]

[Relevant skills and abilities]

[Relevant training, education, or certifications]

[Relevant awards]

Qualification Summary for resume examples

Below are some qualification summary examples to help you get creative and craft your own. 

Example 1: HR Generalist 

Eight years of experience in HR operations enhancing employee relations and compensation design

Master of HR in Human Resources and Industrial Relations

SHRM-CP and PHR certifications

Spearheaded and launched new performance appraisal program, resulting in a quicker turnaround time and 15% improvement in satisfaction ratings

Designed and presented 10 monthly employee reports for executive team focused on employee retention, recruitment, morale, and career development

Example 2: Sales Representative

Seven years of high sales experience in regional B2B sales for IT sector

Certified Sales Development Representative

Led region in corporate software package sales by 9% over a 12-month period

Landed the two highest-value accounts, increasing company’s revenue by 17%

Managed portfolio of 76 software clients, holding a 95% client satisfaction rating

Elected Sales Representative of the year for two years in a row

Example 3: Communications Manager

10 years experience navigating organizations’ internal and external communications challenges, presenting innovative solutions for brand growth and awareness

Launched first sales funnel for organization, generating a 33% increase in leads over a 5-month period

Managed team of 7 to support marketing department’s communications efforts

Corporate Communications Certification from University of Kansas

Example 4: Qualifications summary for students and recent college grads

Graduated with a Bachelors in Counseling, earning a 3.9 GPA

Administered over 50 clinical assessments and counseled 20 young adults under supervision during behavioral health internship 

Secretary of Alpha Chi Omega sorority

A qualifications summary can add value

Depending on your circumstances, as noted above, including a qualifications summary on your resume might add that final boost you need to land those sought-after interviews. Use the tips and guidance found here, along with the many examples provided, to help you craft a qualification summary that grabs the attention of hiring managers.

Wondering if a qualifications summary is right for your resume? Or are you unsure if your current resume has all the necessary elements? Why not submit it for a free resume review ?

Recommended reading:

How to Tailor Your Resume to Different Positions

19 Essential Skills for Resume: Examples Included

Email Subject Lines for a Job Application (Examples + Tips)

Ronda Suder, Professional Writer

With a drive to foster safety and expand possibilities through writing, performing, and working with others, Ronda brings 25 years of combined experience in HR, recruiting, career advice, communications, mental and behavioral health, and storytelling to her work. She’s a certified career coach and holds a Master’s in Human Resources, a Master’s in Film and Media Production, and a Master’s in Counseling and Development. As a writer, she’s covered topics ranging from finance and rock mining to leadership and internet technology, with a passion for career advice and mental-health-related topics. When she’s not at her computer, Ronda enjoys connecting with others, personal growth and development, spending time with her beloved pooch, and entertainment through movies, television, acting, and other artistic endeavors. You can connect with Ronda on  LinkedIn  and through her  website .

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How to List a Summary of Qualifications on a Resume

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Even though every section of your resume is valuable, you might be wondering how to really emphasize your skills to a potential employer.

Often, there are important details about your achievements, performance, or personality that you want to put front and center for a hiring manager to see. Therefore, simply putting these qualifications in your work experience descriptions may not have the impact you’re looking for.

The best way to emphasize details about your qualifications to a potential employer is by listing them as their own separate section on your resume. This section of your resume is called a Summary of Qualifications, and will give you the opportunity to share what makes you a great employee.

Key Takeaways:

A summary of qualifications presents your most qualifying traits in a section tailored for your potential employer.

Use bullet points in your summary of qualifications.

Things you can address in your summary of qualifications include years of experience you have in a select field, any specializations or unique skills you were trained in, and critical achievements.

As with most of your resume, use quantifiable data when possible in your summary of qualifications.

What Is A Summary Of Qualifications

How to format a summary of qualifications, what is in a qualifications summary, other examples of qualification summaries, why is a summary of qualifications important, should i use a summary of qualifications.

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A Summary of Qualifications presents your most defining achievements or personality traits in a way that is meant to maximize your perceived value as an employee.

A Summary of Qualifications should be tailored to the employer you are applying to. Therefore, a Summary of Qualifications should only include information relevant to the job. It is located at the top of a resume to direct the reader’s attention and introduce your most important qualifications.

A Summary of Qualifications is optional, however it can be very beneficial, especially if you meet certain criteria, such as exceptional and extensive qualifications.

How you format a Summary of Qualifications is just as important as what you say. To format a Summary of Qualifications:

Keep it brief. Like other important sections of your resume , such as your education and work experience, your Summary of Qualifications should aim to be brief, while also highlighting important details.

Place it at the top of your resume. As mentioned previously, this section of your resume serves as a way to highlight your value, and should leave a memorable impact. Therefore, you should place your summary of qualifications at the top of your resume.

Avoid first person language. You should also keep in mind that the way in which you write is important. Avoid I or me statements, and instead focus on an active voice with action verbs .

Instead of writing “I was awarded for completing 85% of my group’s graphing and paperwork”, start your statement with an action verb, and keep an active voice by saying:

Awarded by the team for completing over 85% of the group’s graphing and paperwork post-excavation

Use bullet points. Additionally, in talking about impact and readable formatting, it’s important to note that the most effective way to present Qualifications Summary is through the use of a bullet list. This formatting works in favor of you and your potential employer for a few reasons:

Focus. The bullet list style will make each qualification stand out as an individual merit.

Direct. The bullet style conveys a directness that will highlight the importance of your words.

Easy to read. The hiring manager will be able to skim the summary without missing out on the critical details

Ideally, you should limit your bullet list to no more than 6 or 7 qualifications, and those qualifications shouldn’t be more than 2 lines long. In keeping to this formatting, you will maximize the benefits mentioned above.

Even though you know how to format your Summary of Qualifications, maybe you aren’t sure what to include. Perhaps you feel too average, or like you lack some of this incredible experience that some of the samples convey.

However, you shouldn’t fear. There are always clever ways to make yourself seem extraordinary, and a Qualifications Summary will only help on that front.

Here is an general template for a Summary of Qualifications:

Years of experience you have in a select field Highest degree you’ve achieved, including your major, school and graduation year Leadership experience, including how many people you worked with or worked for you Critical achievement or major project you completed, ideally including numerical data Any specializations or unique skills you were trained in Important daily tasks or responsibilities you had in a previous role Professional recognitions, including certifications or awards you received

As you can see, a Summary of Qualifications should be crisp and clean. All of the bullet notes are easy to skim without losing their punch, and this will benefit you immensely in your pursuit of that shiny new job. Though, keep in mind that this is a template, and if you feel you lack any of the items listed, you do not need to include them.

Here is an example of a Summary of Qualifications using some of the items on the template:

Summary Of Qualifications Ten years of experience working as an ER nurse and midwife Achieved a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Boston (2018) Five years of experience leading a team of 15 nurses Reduced patient mortality rate in the ER by 11% Managed up to 20 patients a day, including recording and monitoring their condition

Even if you can’t hit all of the key points on the template, there is always something you can include as a qualification you have. No matter what, those qualifications will make you stand out above another applicant.

Additionally, regardless of what you choose to include, easy details to start with are how long you’ve been working in a certain field, and your highest education level. These qualifications are especially valuable if you’re applying to a position that requires relevant experience in these fields . You should also keep in mind that the most beneficial way to present these skills is through quantifiable data, showing exactly what you have achieved. Instead of saying that you have many years of experience, say:

7 years of experience working in X field

When in doubt, some key skills you should display in your summary are: authority, creativity, efficiency, management, and communication.

Here are some powerful words you can use to display those skills:

Authority and Management: mentored, supervised, administered, coordinated, delegated, trained

Creativity: envisioned, conceptualized, designed, performed, customized

Efficiency: maintained, organized, prepared, arranged, updated, scheduled

Communication: collaborated, persuaded, discussed, presented, clarified, facilitated

All that being said, you’re more than ready to write a glowing Summary of Qualifications.

Worked at Tom’s Groceries for nearly 2 years Achieved a high school degree from Franklin High with a GPA of 3.7 Complemented by grocery staff and teachers alike as being extremely patient and eager to learn Trained as a cashier and a cart attendant Skilled in multitasking, due to balancing a part time job at Tom’s Groceries and honors classes in high school at the same time

Volunteered for a field archaeology project in Pompeii every summer for 4 years Graduated Anthro University with a Masters in Anthropology and a 3.8 GPA Worked with 5 other Archaeologists in a unit, requiring intense communication and passionate teamwork Completed a 70 page research project, which studied the civilian life at the height of the Roman Republic Finished 14 projects before their due date, while maintaining professional quality Awarded by the team for completing over 85% of the group’s graphing and paperwork post-excavation

Over 10 years of experience in customer service Achieved a high school degree from Samson High (2010) Trained 7 newly hired sales associates, and mentored them so they could adapt to their new responsibilities Set a Black Friday record at Bob’s Electronics for checking out 287 customers Well-spoken and easy to talk to, often utilizing a proficiency in English and Spanish to communicate with customers Awarded Employee of the Month on two separate occasions, including November 2019 and July 2020.

Experience working as a Realtor in the capital region for over 6 years Graduated from Housing College with a Masters degree in Business Administration (2017) Adept at networking, and licensed to work as a realtor in New York and Connecticut Increased housing sales by 22% while working at Realtor Co. Gave 72 sellers renovation advice that resulted in a return on investment of at least $15,000 Helped 60% of buyers receive offers that were over asking Received Top Realtor of the Month for 7 months in a row from August 2019 through March 2020

Having this section as a part of your resume is not required, however, that’s what makes it stand out. If someone is competing for the same position as you, and submits a resume that lacks a Summary of Qualifications, you will gain a step up by including one. By displaying your value front and center, a hiring manager should not only be confident in your individual merit, but also your potential as a new employee.

Using a summary of qualifications depends on your circumstances. You should strongly consider providing a Summary of Qualifications if:

You have extensive professional experience. If you have a lot of experience, a Summary of Qualifications can help to summarize your most important traits. A Summary of Qualifications brings those traits to the attention of the reader a lot faster.

You are a recent graduate or have little professional experience. Conversely, you may have little experience but plenty of transferable skills and accomplishments you want to highlight, which a Summary of Qualifications can do for you.

You are changing careers. When changing careers, your resume at first glance may look like its filled with irrelevant job experience. A Summary of Qualifications helps you show you have the desired traits.

You have the space. If you find you still have space on a one page resume, a Summary of Qualifications can be a nice way to bring to the reader’s attention your most important abilities.

Remember, a Summary of Qualifications is optional, so it is up to you to decide whether or not you want to provide one.

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Jack Flynn is a writer for Zippia. In his professional career he’s written over 100 research papers, articles and blog posts. Some of his most popular published works include his writing about economic terms and research into job classifications. Jack received his BS from Hampshire College.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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How to Add a Summary of Qualifications to a Resume [+Examples]

• February 17, 2023
• In Resumes & Cover Letters

The summary of qualifications, or highlight of qualifications, is one of the most critical sections, and you will want to ensure that you get it right. Potential employers need to look at your resume and see all the information required to form a judgment about you without the unnecessary waffle.

When it comes to adding a summary of qualifications to a resume , knowing exactly how to present the list and what order to put things in will help ensure that your resume provides the best possible first impression of you and your skills .

What Does a Summary of Qualifications Mean on a Resume?

In most cases, a summary of qualifications is a section placed at the top of your resume. It would help if you used this section to list all of your most important achievements, qualifications, certifications, and experience. You will often need to adjust your summary of qualifications to the job you are applying for to be as relevant as possible for each role.

What Should You Include in a Summary of Qualifications?

A summary of qualifications is a section on a resume that highlights important work achievements, skills, and experience. It provides a concise overview of your qualifications and serves as a snapshot of your abilities for potential employers. 

• Key Skills: List the skills that are most relevant to the job you are applying for. These can include technical skills, soft skills, and industry-specific skills.
• Work Experience: Highlight your most significant work experiences and accomplishments. Focus on achievements that demonstrate your skills and qualifications for the job.
• Education: Include your educational background, such as degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework.
• Industry Knowledge: Mention any specific industry knowledge or expertise that you possess.
• Achievements: Highlight any notable achievements or awards that are relevant to the job.
• Keywords: Use keywords and phrases that are commonly used in the industry or job description to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS)
• Quantifiable Results: Whenever possible, include specific numbers, percentages, or metrics to quantify your achievements and demonstrate the impact of your work.
• Relevance: Tailor your summary of qualifications to the specific job you are applying for. Focus on the qualifications and skills that are most relevant to the position.

How to Write a Summary of Qualifications?

When writing a summary of qualifications, you should include the following:

Your summary of qualifications is supposed to be an overview of the key points held within your resume, so it makes sense to write it once the rest of your resume is complete.

The idea of your summary of qualifications is to highlight the skills and abilities which make you the best person for the job. Take some time to write down the things you are good at and the skills you have learned in previous positions. This could be the targets you have achieved, the technology you have mastered, or your featured publications.

When speaking about your achievements, you should include information such as the number of years you worked within a role, the number of people in a team, and the budgets you worked with.

When applying for a new job, you should always make sure to thoroughly read the job description and check the company’s website. The information you can gather from these places offers insight into keywords commonly used terms and the skills that are often desired. Using keywords can help your resume stand out and catch recruiters’ interest.

Although you should avoid statements like “I” and “we,” your summary of qualifications should be unique to you. Take the time to consider the things which emphasize your role.

Try to avoid unnecessary words and keep your statements as short as possible.

Summary of Qualifications Examples

How you write your summary of qualifications will largely depend on the role you are applying for and the level of experience you have. Below are some examples you can use to guide you when writing your summary of qualifications.

Summary of Qualifications for Students

• Completed a 2-year course in (relevant qualification) with honors
• Voted student ambassador for senior year
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and similar systems
• Three years of voluntary experience with a local soup kitchen

Entry-Level Roles

• Four years experience working as a volunteer for a church youth group, assigning roles and completing tasks.
• Worked as part of a team of 8 volunteers to successfully run an easter holiday camp for 60 children aged 5-12.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and similar systems, able to work with both Excel and Word
• Completed (name of degree) at (name of college) in (year)
• Studied for first aid certification and completed required assessments

Accountants

• Completed Bachelors Degree in Accounting at (relevant college)
• Experienced and familiar with a variety of data entry systems and accounting software
• Five years of experience working within a large accounting firm, achieving deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Promoted to team leader within my department after six months
• Five years of experience working with a variety of accountancy software
• Experienced in taxation and regulatory compliance

Administrative Assistants

• 15 years working with a team of administrative assistants
• Experience with a variety of different record-keeping and data-entry systems
• Introduced a new method of data entry which helped to reduce clerical errors by 25% and streamlined processes
• Collaborated with a team of 5 others to liaise between different departments and clients

Project Managers

• Experience leading a team of 12
• Seven years of working with the same team of staff members
• Grew profits from 5% to 12% annually within my department
• Met deadlines for every project within the last five years

Summary of Qualifications for Teacher

• Ten years of experience working with special needs children
• Five years experience as the lead teacher in the English department
• Successful completion of special needs training, ASL, and disability handling courses
• Five years working as head of the English department in a high school setting  

Medical Assistants

• Seven years of experience working within a medical environment
• Two years working in an Emergency Department
• Experienced in organizing and handling patient charts and documentation
• Trained in techniques required to collect patient vitals and the best ways to document this
• Excellent communication skills and ability to liaise between patients and doctors where required
• Experience working within a fast-paced and highly demanding working environment which required fast reactions and attention to detail

Financial Analysts

• Completed Master’s Degree in Accounting from (relevant college)
• Registered and licensed with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
• Three years experience working as a trainee financial analyst

Summary of Qualifications Customer Service Roles

• Six years of experience working in retail
• Completed relevant training to become a designated first aider
• Promoted to Duty Manager after 12 months
• Awarded employee of the month on five separate occasions
• Trained in cash handling and balancing

Management Positions

• Successfully led a team of 25 to increase growth and revenue by 30% over ten years.
• Reduced staff turnover by 59% by implementing a range of staff satisfaction measures
• Increased department profits by 7% in the first 12 months
• Implemented growth and sustainability measures which were adopted company-wide

In Conclusion

Your resume will often be the first impression a potential employer has of you, so it is crucial to get it right. Making sure you include a summary of qualifications tailored to the role you are applying for can help you stand out from the crowd, promoting your strengths and the skills that make you the best candidate for the job.

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Summary of Qualifications for a Resume

Introducing your resume with a summary of qualifications can serve to present your experience, skills, and expertise in a succinct way to draw in a potential employer and convince them to keep reading the rest of your resume. This can boost your chances of scoring an interview and eventually getting hired.

This article will cover what a summary of qualifications is and how to write a successful one, plus provide a few examples.

What Is a Resume Summary of Qualifications?

A summary of qualifications is an introductory resume section that uses bullet points to summarize your work experience , skills , and accomplishments. This type of introductory section should be placed right below your resume header. It’s also sometimes called a qualifications summary or statement of qualifications.

Other Types of Resume Introductions

There are two other types of resume introductions that are commonly used: resume summaries and resume objectives . A resume summary includes essentially the same information as a summary of qualifications, but it also can include your education details and is typically written in paragraph format rather than bullet points.

A resume objective is a type of introduction that’s best for students, recent graduates, and others who are new to the professional workforce. It essentially states your career goals and shows how your goals align with those of the company that you are applying to work for. A resume objective can also be a good choice for those making a career change.

When To Use a Summary of Qualifications

A summary of qualifications is a good option if you have plenty of experience in your industry and you are applying for another position in the same field.

A qualifications summary can be the best choice if you want to showcase your long history of accomplishments in your industry, impressive certifications that are relevant to your target role, or any particularly useful skills that you possess.

If you don’t have much or any professional work experience, you will likely be better off using a resume objective instead.

How To Write a Summary of Qualifications

If you’ve determined that a summary of qualifications makes the most sense for your resume, here are some tips to help you write an effective one:

Write It Last

It’s generally easiest to write your summary of qualifications last, after you’ve already written everything else on your resume. This way, you can see all of your relevant accomplishments, experience, and skills laid out in one place, and then you can pick the most impressive items to feature in your summary.

Target Your Summary of Qualifications To Each Job

Be sure to target your summary of qualifications (and your entire resume) to each job that you apply for. To do this, read the job posting carefully and do some basic research about the company to learn about their values and priorities. Then identify keywords and phrases that describe what the employer is looking for in a candidate, and use those power words in your resume. Most employers will make it fairly obvious what they are looking for, especially in the requirements section of the job post.

When choosing what to include on your resume and especially what to highlight in your summary of qualifications, refer to the employer’s desired traits and mention as many of them as possible.

Of course, only mention something if it’s truly applicable to you. It’s never a good idea to lie on your resume or exaggerate your qualifications. The consequences can be severe, including loss of your job, damage to your reputation, or even legal action taken against you.

Choose Your Best, Most Relevant Details

When considering what to highlight in your summary of qualifications, here are some points to include:

• How many years of experience you have
• Your most impressive soft and hard skills
• Awards, titles, or honors
• Relevant certifications , licenses, or degrees
• Examples of your leadership abilities
• Media mentions or publications
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) or metrics that you have improved
• Number of people that you’ve managed, supervised, or trained
• Ways that you’ve boosted efficiency, solved problems, or saved money

Choose your top 4 to 6 qualifications to include in your summary. Remember that this section is just the hook to capture an employer’s interest and encourage them to read on. You can include the rest of your achievements later in your resume.

Try to frame each of your points in a way that makes it clear how the information is relevant to the position that you are applying for. While some skills are transferable across many different positions, some niche abilities or certifications may sound impressive but won’t bring any actual value to a company in a completely different industry. So, look for the balance between impressiveness and relevance - ideally your highlighted qualifications will be both.

Quantify Your Achievements

Finally, be sure to quantify each of your achievements with numbers and data wherever possible. Think about the KPIs that your current or past employer has gone over with you in annual assessments and include that data with your qualifications. If you don’t have this type of information on hand, you can always search online for your common KPIs in your profession and see if you can work out the numbers for yourself.

Or, if your position isn’t measurable in statistics, you can include numbers like your years of experience, the number and scope of the projects you’ve worked on, how many clients you’ve worked with, and so forth.

Ultimately, it sounds much more impressive to say that you “recruited 20 new employees and decreased the recruiting lead time by 50%, saving the company $100,000 per year” than it does to say “recruited employees and cut recruitment lead time.”

Examples of Summaries of Qualifications

Here are some examples of summaries of qualifications for a few different professions:

Customer Service Representative:

• Consistently received customer satisfaction scores of 95% or higher
• Won “Employee of the Month” twice
• Mentored 5 new hires
• Resolved open tickets 30% faster than average department time
• Created 300+ marketing materials per year - infographics, slide decks, brochures, etc.
• Wrote and executed a social media marketing campaign that grew sales by 25%
• Developed email marketing strategy and grew list to 5,000+ subscribers
• Implemented seasonal sales and promotions which increased annual revenue by 20%

Nurse Practitioner:

• Provided critical post surgery care for an average of 80+ patients per year
• Won hospital’s “Nurse Practitioner of the Year” two years in a row
• Managed and mentored 10+ newly registered nurses each year

Key Takeaways

A summary of qualifications is an introductory resume section that provides a brief overview of your most impressive skills, experience, and achievements. Once you’ve written the rest of your resume, choose the best 4-6 points that are relevant to the job that you are applying for. Be sure to quantify your accomplishments with numbers and data and tailor your summary of qualifications to each position.

Need help putting together a polished resume? Consider using Jobseeker ’s professional resume creation tool - you can enter in all of your details and select from a curated library of templates , layouts, formats, fonts, and styles. Then download your resume instantly and get started applying for jobs right away!

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How to Craft a Winning Resume: Step-By-Step Guide

A standout resume showcases your fit for the role and reflects your professional narrative and brand, emphasizing your qualifications, experience and the unique value you bring to the position.

Quality Verified

Updated: April 5, 2024

On This Page:

• Why Your Resume Matters
• Step 1: Job Description
• Step 2: Format
• Step 3: Objective
• Step 4: Work Experience
• Step 5: Skills
• Step 6: Education & Credentials
• Step 7: Optional Sections
• Step 8: Proofread

Additional Resources

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

An effective resume is much more than a simple list of skills and career history. Your resume often makes the first impression on potential employers and is vital to securing an interview during a job search . When crafted correctly, it's a tool that reflects your qualifications, experiences and compatibility with the position you're applying for.

Importance of a Well-Crafted Resume

A well-crafted resume does more than state your work history — it's a strategic way to present your professional narrative in the most compelling light. Here's why a resume is vital in your job application process:

Step 1: Carefully Read the Job Description

The first step in crafting a compelling resume is a thorough understanding of the job description. It sets the direction for how you'll customize your resume to meet the specific needs and requirements of the role. Here's how to approach it:

Read Attentively

Begin by reading the job description carefully. Pay attention to the language used and the listed responsibilities and requirements. This will give you a clear idea of what the employer values most.

Highlight Key Skills and Qualifications

As you read, underline or highlight the essential skills and qualifications mentioned. These are usually listed under sections titled "Requirements," "Qualifications," or "Skills."

Match Your Skills

Compare your experiences and skills to those in the job description. Identify where your background aligns with the job requirements. This step is crucial for tailoring your resume to show you're an ideal fit.

Incorporate Keywords

Integrate keywords and phrases found in the job description throughout your resume. Use them in your summary, work experience and skills sections. This shows that your qualifications match the role and helps your resume get past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which screen resumes based on specific keywords.

Step 2: Choose the Best Resume Format

Choosing the right resume format ensures that your application captures the attention of hiring managers by presenting your background in the most effective and relevant way. Below are the three most commonly used resume formats, along with guidance on who should use each and why:

Chronological Resume

This format arranges your work experience in reverse chronological order, beginning with your most recent job at the top. It's ideal for individuals with a solid and steady work history. The chronological resume highlights career progression and is particularly effective for those looking to advance in the same field.

Best for: Seasoned professionals with consistent employment in their field.

Example: A marketing manager with 10 years of experience seeking to become a marketing director.

Functional Resume

This format emphasizes your skills and abilities rather than the chronological chronology of your professional experience. It's beneficial for those with career gaps in their employment, newcomers to the workforce or career changers, as it allows them to highlight how their skills transfer to the position they're applying for.

Best for: Career changers, individuals with employment gaps or those with diverse skill sets not tied to specific roles.

Example: A professional transitioning from a teaching career to a corporate training position, emphasizing skills in curriculum development, presentation and educational technology.

Combination Resume

A hybrid of the chronological and functional formats, this style allows you to showcase your relevant skills and work history. It's perfect for those with a solid employment record who also want to highlight specific skills that are particularly relevant to the job they're applying for.

Best for: Professionals with a robust work history and specific, transferable skills directly applicable to the job opening.

Example: A software developer with extensive experience in project management looking to focus on agile project management roles.

Step 3: Write a Compelling Resume Summary or Objective

Your summary or objective should introduce your resume and encapsulate your professional identity and value proposition, making a compelling case for why you're the ideal candidate for the position. Here's how to differentiate between the two and write them effectively:

Resume Summary

Ideal for experienced professionals, a summary provides a concise overview of your career achievements and key strengths. It highlights your experience, major accomplishments and the value you bring to a potential employer.

Example: "Customer Service Manager with over seven years of experience specializing in improving customer satisfaction and team performance. Achieved a 30% increase in customer satisfaction at XYZ Co., demonstrating proficiency in CRM software and effective team leadership."

Resume Objective

Best suited for those at the entry level, career changers or applicants with gaps in employment, an objective focuses on your career goals and how they align with the company's needs, emphasizing your enthusiasm and potential contributions.

Example: "Recent Computer Science graduate passionate about software development and problem-solving. Aiming to apply academic knowledge and innovative thinking in a Junior Developer role. Awarded university prize for excellence in project development, showcasing strong technical skills and creative solutions."

• Be Concise: Keep your summary or objective brief, targeting three to five lines.
• Showcase Your Value: Mention specific skills and experiences that align with the job description, indicating how you can solve problems or add value to the team.
• Use Active Language: Start sentences with action verbs and use the active voice to convey dynamism and proactivity.

Step 4: Detail Your Work Experience

The work experience section of your resume is where you showcase your professional journey and demonstrate your value to potential employers. Here's how you can effectively list your work experience:

Chronological Order

Begin with your most recent position and proceed backward in time. This format allows employers to quickly understand your current level of responsibility and track your career progression.

Dynamic Action Verbs

Initiate each bullet point with a strong action verb (e.g., led, developed, increased, optimized) to capture attention and actively convey your role in each achievement.

Quantify Achievements

Wherever possible, use numbers, percentages and specific outcomes to quantify your achievements. This approach provides tangible evidence of your contributions and impact on your roles.

Beyond Duties

Focus on your achievements in each position rather than simply listing job duties. Describe how you added value, solved problems or improved processes. This distinction helps employers gauge your potential impact on their organization.

Tailor to the Job

Select experiences and accomplishments most relevant to the position you're applying for. Tailoring this section to the job description ensures you highlight the skills and experiences that align closely with what the employer is seeking.

Step 5: Highlight Your Skills

The skills section can be an opportunity to respond directly to the job description's call for specific competencies. Follow these steps to make your skills section stand out:

Inventory Your Skills

Compile a comprehensive list of your skills, including technical skills and interpersonal skills. No skill is too small to consider.

Prioritize Relevant Skills

From your inventory, select the skills that most closely match the job description. These are the ones you should highlight in your resume.

Balancing Hard and Soft Skills

A well-rounded candidate possesses hard and soft skills . Hard skills demonstrate your specific qualifications for the job, while soft skills illustrate how you interact with others and approach your work.

Presenting Your Skills

When listing your skills, consider using bullet points for clarity and ease of reading. Provide brief examples of how you've applied each skill in a professional setting, either within the skills section itself or elsewhere in your resume.

Integrating Soft Skills Throughout

While it's important to list soft skills, you can also integrate them into your work experience and achievements.

Step 6: Include Your Education and Credentials

This section should highlight your academic achievements and underscore your commitment to professional development. Consider the following tips to showcase your education and credentials effectively:

List Your Highest Education First

Begin with the most advanced degree you've earned, followed by others in reverse chronological order. For each, include the degree type, your major, the name of the institution and your graduation year (or expected graduation year if you're currently enrolled).

Certifications and Licenses

List any professional certifications or licenses you hold, especially those directly relevant to the job. Include the name of the certification, the issuing organization and the date of attainment or expiration, if applicable.

Relevant Coursework, Honors and Awards

Mention any courses, honors or awards directly relevant to the job or that showcase exceptional achievement. Place these details under the appropriate educational entry, keeping the descriptions brief yet descriptive.

Formatting for Clarity

Use bullet points for each element to ensure the section is easily scannable. This helps potential employers quickly grasp your academic and professional learning achievements.

Prioritizing Information

Your educational background will be particularly important if you're starting your career or a recent graduate. In this case, consider placing your education section above your work experience. For those more advanced in their careers, education can follow the work experience section, focusing more on degrees and certifications than on coursework or honors.

• Master of Science in Data Analytics – XYZ University, 2023
• Specialization: Big Data Processing and Visualization Technique
• Honors: Received the Dean's Award for Outstanding Graduate Research

Certifications

• Certified Data Analyst – Data Science Institute, 2022

Step 7: Consider Optional Resume Sections

In addition to the essential components of your resume — such as your career summary, skills, work experience and education — consider including optional sections to further develop your brand, showcase a comprehensive skill set and stand out from other candidates. Select optional sections that add value and are relevant to the position you're applying for. Here are some possibilities:

Volunteer Work

Highlight significant volunteer roles and community service activities. These experiences can illustrate your commitment to social causes, leadership abilities and application of professional skills in a volunteer setting.

Detailing relevant certifications underscores your dedication to professional development and expertise in your field.

Share hobbies that reflect positively on your personality and offer insights into your soft skills, such as teamwork, creativity or leadership. Choose hobbies that are relevant or could contribute uniquely to the job.

Awards and Honors

Include professional or academic recognitions to emphasize your commitment to excellence and achievement in your career or field of study.

Listing language proficiencies can demonstrate your ability to communicate in diverse environments, an essential skill in many global or multicultural roles.

Professional Affiliations

Show your engagement with the professional community through memberships in associations, which can indicate a broader network and up-to-date industry knowledge

Step 8: Proofread and Format Your Resume

Errors, typos and inconsistencies in formatting can significantly detract from your professionalism and attention to detail. Here are some strategies to ensure your resume is polished and professional:

Be Consistent

Use a consistent format for headings, bullet points and fonts throughout your resume. This uniformity helps maintain a clean, professional look.

Choose a Professional Font

Use a professional, easy-to-read font such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman. Maintain a font size of 10 to 12 points for body text and slightly larger for headings.

Bullet Points

Use bullet points to list achievements and responsibilities, improving the document's readability and making it easier for employers to scan.

Margins and Spacing

Set your margins to 1" on all sides to create a balanced, uncluttered layout. Adequate spacing between sections further enhances readability.

Multiple Rounds of Proofreading

Go beyond a cursory spell check. Read your resume several times, each focusing on different elements — first for typos and grammar, then for consistency in formatting and finally for overall flow and persuasiveness.

Get a Second Opinion

Having someone else review your resume can provide valuable insights and catch errors you might have missed.

Use Digital Tools

Leverage grammar and spell-check tools like Grammarly or Microsoft Word's Review features for an additional layer of error checking.

Here's a list of valuable resources for crafting a standout resume that effectively navigates modern job application processes. Each offers unique insights and guidance tailored to different aspects of resume writing and job search strategies:

• GCFLearnFree.org : Features a wide range of guides, including formatting resumes for Applicant Tracking Systems and tailoring resumes to specific job applications​​.
• U.S. Department of Labor : Shares tips for writing a federal resume, including tailoring your resume to the job's requirements and selecting the right format​​.
• Workshops for Warriors : Provides targeted advice for veterans transitioning to civilian work, focusing on showcasing military training, certifications and soft skills​​.

About Nathan Paulus

Nathan Paulus is the Head of Content Marketing at MoneyGeek, with nearly 10 years of experience researching and creating content related to personal finance and financial literacy.

Paulus has a bachelor's degree in English from the University of St. Thomas, Houston. He enjoys helping people from all walks of life build stronger financial foundations.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Highlighting Writing Skills...

Highlighting Writing Skills on Your Resume

11 min read · Updated on April 16, 2024

Do you know how to prove your writing skills in a resume?

In today's competitive labor market, it can sometimes be difficult to differentiate yourself from other job candidates. To successfully compete, you need to make sure that your resume delivers a powerfully compelling message that makes a positive first impression on hiring managers. One way to enhance your resume narrative is to include your relevant writing skills.

In this post, we will explain the following: 

Why writing skills are important in so many different industries

We'll examine the different types of writing abilities that employers may be looking for

We will also help you learn how to match your skills to your desired job role

We'll show you how to use achievements to highlight writing skills in your resume

We'll provide some examples showing you how to include writing skills in a resume and offer some tips you can use to enhance your writing ability

What are writing skills, and why are they important?

Many job seekers assume that they only need to include writing skills in a resume if they're seeking a job that involves a lot of writing. Obviously, the ability to communicate through the written word is an essential skill for people who create marketing presentations, reports, legal briefs, and similar documents. At the same time, though, those same skills are invaluable assets in many other fields as well.

That's because writing skills enable you to communicate ideas in a convincing way. People who possess these skills are often proficient in a wide array of communication styles, including everything from persuasive writing to the use of descriptive, technical, or creative writing. Effective writers also tend to excel in the use of good writing structure, grammar, punctuation, and messaging tone.

Employers who see writing skills on a resume will recognize you as someone whose communication skills can provide real value to any team. That's true whether you're seeking a job as a copywriter or pursuing a role in marketing, accounting, or management. 

The bottom line is clear: even if you're not seeking a job that regularly requires great writing skills, highlighting them in your resume can help set you apart from rival job seekers.

Types of writing skills for a resume

At this point, you might be wondering just how detailed you should be when describing your writing skills in your resume. The reality is that there are a host of distinct writing skills that can benefit you in various job roles. Let's take a moment and review some of the most common writing skills that employers might want to see:

Fundamental writing skills like grammar, punctuation, etc.

Business writing

Creative writing

Content writing

Technical writing

Email composition

Report writing

Grant writing

Collaborative writing

Media content creation

Social media writing

Presentation writing

Brand management

How to identify the right writing skills for the job

Before you just start listing different writing skills on your resume, it's important to ensure that you're aligning those skills with the employer's needs. The easiest way to do that is to use your research skills to examine the job posting and any role description you can find. 

Which specific writing skills are listed as required qualifications? 

What terms are used to describe those abilities? 

Create a list of all those skill requirements and focus on including them in your resume's skill section.

It can also be helpful to search the Internet for similar job resumes to see which skills are typically listed as core competencies. That can provide useful insight into what employers want to see from candidates in your field.

It's also vital to make sure you're using the same terms the employer used in their job posting since those terms may be keywords needed to satisfy applicant tracking systems, or ATS. 

You'll want to include those keywords throughout your resume to ensure the ATS software finds them during the automated screening process. That can improve your resume's chances of being seen by a hiring manager.

Use achievements to demonstrate your writing skills on a resume

As you create your list of writing skills, always focus on skills that you can demonstrate by referencing specific experiences and accomplishments. Employers understand that anyone can claim to possess certain skills. However, only truly skilled individuals will be able to back up those claims with real-life achievements. By citing those skills in the summary and work experience sections of your resume, you can more effectively demonstrate how your writing skills create real value for employers.

The following tips can help you create powerful achievement statements that demonstrate your writing skills in your resume.

Select writing skills that have achieved real results

Make sure that you include achievements that show how the writing skills in your resume were used to produce real results for employers. Your focus should be on using achievements to prove your skills. For example, if you've used those abilities to create client presentations that helped close deals, create an accomplishment statement that highlights that achievement.

Quantify the value your skills have provided

It is also vital that you quantify your achievements by including real numbers that reflect the value your skills can bring to any organization. Those numbers can demonstrate the amount of revenue that your writing skills helped to generate, increases in online engagement, time savings, cost reductions, or any other measurable achievement that contributed to your employers' profitability, productivity, and operational efficiency.

Create achievement statements

If you really want to make sure that employers understand the value of your writing skills, you can highlight those abilities throughout your resume. Obviously, you'll want to include some of the most prominent writing skills within your core competencies section, and in the bullet point achievements that you include in your professional experience section. For maximum impact, you can also include an achievement statement in your summary that emphasizes those skills.

Below, we'll show you how to highlight your writing skills in each of those key sections.Writing skills in your core competencies section

As you might imagine, your core competencies, or skills section, can be a great place to highlight these writing abilities. You can include some of your core writing skills in this section, along with other key technical abilities and relevant soft skills. Remember to use bullet points for your list and use two or three columns to format the section. 

Some of the key soft skills that complement writing expertise include:

Communication

Search engine optimization

Adaptability

Research techniques

Time management

Social media management

The ability to connect with audiences

Try to include a mix of these hard and soft skills. That will help employers understand that you not only have the technical abilities to perform the job but also possess the interpersonal skills you'll need to work effectively with others.

Related post : Soft Skills Explained - and the Top 7 for Your Resume

Writing skills in your resume summary

Your resume summary is another fantastic place to highlight writing skills in your resume. Obviously, it's one of the first things many employers read, and serves as your introduction to the reader. If writing skills are an important part of your resume narrative, you need to include some mention of them in this vital summary paragraph. 

The best way to do that is to add an achievement statement that demonstrates those talents. For example:

Dynamic Marketing Manager with 9 years of experience in strategic campaign development, team building, and project implementation. Skilled content creator with proficiency in online branding, search engine optimization strategies, and increased website traffic and sales engagement. Created multi-tiered email and social media content that reached 20,000 new customers monthly, increasing customer engagement by 22% and leading to a 17% boost in sales.

In that sample summary statement, the last sentence highlights the candidate's writing skills, providing hard numbers that quantify how their content provided real benefits to the employer. If you can create solid achievement statements that demonstrate this type of value, your accomplishments will help to convince employers that you have the skills you claim to possess.

Related post : Resume Profile Explained (with Examples)

Writing skills in your work experience section

It will come as no surprise that the best place to highlight and prove writing skills on your resume is in your work experience section. Here, you will want to use bullet-point achievement statements that quantify your results. For each job title you've included in this section, add between four and six of these bullet-point accomplishments using real numbers that demonstrate your value proposition.

Related post : 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

How to list writing skills on a resume: examples

Below are some examples of the types of achievements you can include in these bullet point statements.

• Wrote ABC Corp. Sales Training Manual, revising onboarding and training techniques to reduce onboarding time by 17%; improved new salesperson sales results by 22% in their first six months on the job.
• Created presentation content for Alpha Bank proposed merger, helping overcome M&A negotiation barriers and facilitating $100 million acquisition.
• Crafted more than 500 blog posts, website landing pages, and email campaigns in two years, credited with 130% increase in customer online traffic and 12% increase in sales revenue.

You get the point. The key is to focus on your writing contributions, describing the challenge you faced, what you did to overcome that obstacle, and defining the results. 

If you find yourself struggling to condense those narratives into brief achievement statements, check out a related post: How to Create an Effective STAR Method Resume (With Examples) .

Tips to improve your writing skills

You may find it interesting to know that even professional writers actively work to further develop their writing skills. The reality is that everyone can benefit from continuing to develop their written communication skills, and that includes those who only use these skills on an occasional basis. 

So, how can you develop your writing skills to ensure that you have the abilities needed to make a great impression on employers? Below are some tips to guide you in that question.

1.     Return to the basics

Spend some time reacquainting yourself with writing fundamentals like grammar, spelling, and punctuation. You can find free resources online or take a class at a local community college if you need additional help.

2.     Read more

Believe it or not, regular reading is one of the biggest secrets to effective writing. Immerse yourself in the written word and pay attention to how other writers communicate to their audiences.

3.     Learn to use outlines

Another secret to effective writing is to learn how to create outlines. Before you begin to write any complex document, always start with an outline that provides a clear structure for your narrative.

4.     Practice writing

This cannot be emphasized enough: if you want to be a better writer, you have no choice but to write. Write something every day to ensure that your skills are constantly being used. Practice won't make you perfect, but it will make you better.

5.     Get used to creating drafts

Never assume that the first words you write will be your finished product. Instead, take your ideas and get them out of your head and into your document to create a first draft. Once that's done, you can go back and revise that content as much as needed to create the right message.

6.     Always do your homework

Don't underestimate the power of research. By doing your homework before you start writing, you can ensure that you write with conviction and authority. Readers are drawn to authentic content.

7.     Don't be afraid to delete unnecessary content

Never be afraid to delete words, sentences, or entire paragraphs that contribute little to your narrative. The best writers are always willing to abandon content that isn't achieving their goals.

Enhance your job search by including writing skills in your resume

When you want to highlight your writing skills on a resume, it's not enough to just say that you possess those abilities. Instead, you need to demonstrate those skills by providing real examples of measurable achievements. If you can do that, you'll have an easier time proving those writing skills to employers – which can help differentiate you from rival job seekers and improve your odds of landing an interview and job offer!

Want to make sure that the writing skills in your resume effectively convey your writing talent? Get a free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended reading:

Seven Key Resume Sections and How to Organize Them

11 Key Things to Put on Your Resume

17 Resume Tips to Get Seen and Hired Faster

Related Articles:

11 Best IT Skills for Your Resume + Examples

How to Add Dean's List on Your Resume + Examples

Past vs. Present Tense on Resumes: Best Practices

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