The career summary section is the place to excite your new boss about your skills and achievements - in just a few seconds.
I can't emphasize enough how important the summary section is for your job search.
Get it right, and show that you understand and can provide what the boss needs, and they'll be scrambling to bring you in for an interview.
If the summary isn't strong enough, and doesn't make enough bold claims, the reader isn't going to read any further, and you don't get the interview! This checklist can help you know whether you're on the right track: 1.
Does it make bold claims about what you are able to do? 2.
Are there specific examples of successes and results supporting your objective statement? 3.
Have you clearly listed the skills and experience your next boss expects you to have? 4.
Are the top 1-2 accomplishments from your job experience section highlighted? 5.
Have you listed your key soft skills (such as leadership, problem solving)? 6.
Have you highlighted your very strongest qualifications and credentials? 7.
Does it showcase you at the level of your target position, rather than at your current level? 8.
Have you included keywords that a resume screener will be searching for? 9.
Have you quantified each of your career highlights in terms of dollars, percentages, or numbers? 10.
Is everything 100% positive - does it paint you in the best possible light? Is everything 100% truthful? Here's a bonus tip that can really made a difference in your job search: 11.
Does your summary section speak to the employer's needs? What will you bring to your next job that no one else will?