by Julie Desmond

Kim met with a recruiter the other day and was told me to make her resume shorter. Writes Kim, “She said that the first part should summarize where I can add value. Can you help me think about language around that?”

As busy as recruiters and hiring managers are these days, a resume has very little time to make a good impression; and frankly, if Kim can’t add value, why would I hire her? Therefore, it’s critical that every word sets Kim apart from the hundreds of other candidates applying for her niche position by communicating clearly what’s in it for me, the employer.

The best place to make this statement is in the segment of the resume Kim refers to, often called a Profile or Summary. Better titles would be Value Summary or Qualifications Summary. It traditionally includes phrases such as, “Diligent, motivated, team player.” Today, you are only one of many people who believe themselves to be diligent, motivated and a team player. To stand apart from the crowd, develop phrases that truly connect the value you bring to the position you are applying for. It’s easy to do, using your job description as a guide.

Begin your Qualifications Summary by stating the title of the position you want to apply to. “Experienced Health Care Aide available for fulltime and weekend work.” This sets the stage for you to list your relevant skills.

Next, choose some key words from the job description that truly describe your talents as they relate to this position. Example one: You want to say, “Multi-tasker,” but you will communicate your value more clearly by explaining that you can “Prioritize and solve customer service problems with minimal supervision.” You are results oriented, and if you can quantify those results, you’ll make a lasting impression.

Example two: you want to say, “Experience in all aspects of accounting.” For more impact, state, “Assisted in month end close for three years, and prepared journal entries and account analysis using Excel.” These words can come right out of the job description and demonstrate that you have what the hiring company is asking for.

A good test of a value-added summary is to show, don’t tell. Think, “Prove it.” A world-renowned high jumper could say, “I can jump really high.” Or he could say, “Won an Olympic Gold Medal for clearing fourteen feet in the high jump competition.” Don’t trust anyone to know what you mean. Tell us.

If Kim can illustrate exactly where she bring value to the position, employers will be very interested in talking more about it with her.

Julie Desmond is Contract Specialist with Specialized Recruiting Group in Minneapolis. Write to julie.desmond@expresspros.com.