Resume Tips: “What” Means Nothing Without “Why”

You only have one chance to make a first impression and in this digital age it is easy to forget that your resume is that first impression. It is the first glimpse potential employers have of you. 

Some people are familiar with the “elevator pitch” in which you justify the importance of your work or a project in the time it takes you and your boss or potential client to ride the elevator. There are many guides for how to execute this and they all include some variation on how to state, who you are, what you do, and why it is of value in 30 seconds or less.  

Consider your resume to be that 30 second pitch specifically detailing why have you been successful in the past. A statement of value that reflects why the organization should consider you to be part of the team. Your experience should be detailed beyond procedure and administration. Here are some examples:  

Bad:  

• I answer calls from customers.  

• I manager product margins.  

• I search out waste.  

• I try to talk customers into not leaving.  

 Good:  

• I help customers by answering calls in a timely manner, using active listening skills to expedite requests. 

• I increase profits by resolving issues promptly, making me able to increase workload.  

• I control costs by identifying wasteful practices and implementing a more streamlined response  

• I help with customer retention by using professionalism and detail to leave a positive impression on the company. 

The first set is the most basic description of duties, while the second set includes a short but value-oriented statement. although several could be a little more carefully worded. The second set includes the reasons why you were effective at each task. These are the points that you want to include on ‘the elevator’ so your prospective employer knows your value.  

You can share more involved details once you schedule an interview, just remember to let people know why they should meet you.