Occasionally I hear from people who say something like this:
"I've attached my resume. It's missing my last two jobs, but here are my job descriptions so you can add them." And I respond with something like: "Thanks, but your job description doesn't help me. That's not the type of information recruiters are looking for." A resume and a job description are completely different things, so if you're using your job description as the basis for your resume, I'd strongly suggest revising your strategy. Job Descriptions A job description is usually written by HR and it outlines what someone in your position is supposed to do in their position. It's an idealistic document that looks forward with intent. Resumes that use job descriptions as their foundation usually contain statements like:
As you can imagine, recruiters can spot "job description language" from a mile away. Resumes A resume, on the other hand, showcases what you were accountable for and what you accomplished for past employers. It looks back. Instead of focusing on what someone in your position is supposed to do, it shows what you've actually done - and not in terms of tasks, but achievements. A resume should include statements like these:
It's not a bad idea to review your job description to help remember things you may have forgotten, but it shouldn't be used as the basis for your resume. Focus on what you achieved. (And please don't write your resume in the same business-speak corporate tone that's used for most job descriptions. I'm sure recruiters will appreciate it!) All the best! ---- Mike Howard, Professional Resume Writer If you enjoyed this post, check out my website or follow me on LinkedIn for more. ![]() Comments are closed.
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