how to write an introduction to a resume

46 Examples of a Resume Opening Statement (Perfect Introduction)

By Status.net Editorial Team on February 8, 2024 — 8 minutes to read

A resume opening statement, also known as a summary or objective, serves as your first impression to potential employers. This brief and concise introduction highlights your relevant skills, experiences, and career goals. It’s important because it can catch an employer’s attention and convince them to read the rest of your resume.

• Sets the tone : It establishes a professional image and indicates the level of your expertise.
• Tailors your resume : You can tailor this statement to align with the job description, showcasing how your skills are a perfect match for the position.
• Showcases your value : By summarizing your most impressive accomplishments, you can quickly show how you will add value to the company.

Elements of a Strong Opening Statement

When you’re crafting the opening statement for your resume, think of it as your professional handshake. This means you need to capture attention while succinctly showcasing your top qualifications. Here are key elements to include:

• Tailor it to the job. Match your statement to the job description. Highlight how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the position.
• Use actionable language. Start sentences with verbs that convey your ability to take initiative, such as “managed,” “developed,” or “increased.”
• Quantify achievements. Where possible, use numbers to demonstrate your accomplishments. For example, “Increased sales by 20% within a year through strategic marketing initiatives.”
• Include relevant experience. Mention your most pertinent past roles. If you’re a recent graduate, focus on education, internships, and important projects.
• Add your career goals. Briefly outline how you intend to contribute to the company and grow professionally.
• Keep it concise. Your opening statement should be a compelling snapshot, not a deep dive. Aim for no more than a few sentences or bullet points.

Sales Manager: “Seasoned Sales Manager with over 10 years of experience in fostering robust client relationships and driving profitable business growth. Achieved an average of 15% yearly sales increase by leading and mentoring a dynamic team.”

Graphic Designer: “Creative Graphic Designer with a passion for developing original designs that resonate with audiences. Expert in Adobe Creative Suite with a track record of delivering high-impact visuals for diverse campaigns.”

Crafting a Personalized Introduction

When writing a resume opening statement, you should focus on creating a unique introduction that captures your professional identity. It’s important to tailor this section specifically to the job you’re applying for, highlighting skills and experiences that align with what the potential employer is seeking.

• Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs attention. You might introduce yourself with a significant achievement or detail that’s relevant to the role. Example: “As a digital marketing specialist with a proven track record in growing online audiences, I’ve successfully increased social media engagement by over 60% for multiple brands.”
• Connect your background to the job description. Use the keywords from the job listing to emphasize how your experience matches the requirements. Example: “With a commitment to continuous improvement and lean management, I bring over 5 years of experience in streamlining operational processes for manufacturing sectors.”
• Mention any unique qualifications or certifications that set you apart from other candidates. Example: “Certified project management professional (PMP) skilled in leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and under budget.”
• Reflect your enthusiasm for the role. Employers appreciate candidates who are excited about the possibility of joining their team. Example: “Eager to contribute my expertise in innovative UX design and user research to enhance the client experience at a forward-thinking tech company like yours.”

Tailoring the Statement to the Job Description

When you’re writing a resume opening statement, it’s important to align it with the job you’re applying for. Start by carefully reading the job description. Identify the key skills and experiences the employer is looking for. Your opening statement should reflect that you possess these qualifications.

Make a list of the skills and competencies the job requires. For example, if the job calls for “excellent customer service skills” or “proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite,” make sure these are mentioned in your statement if you have these skills. Here’s how you might begin your statement for such a scenario:

• For customer service roles: “Dedicated customer service professional with 5 years of experience…”
• For a design position: “Creative graphic designer skilled in Adobe Creative Suite, with a strong…”

You can use keywords from the job description. This not only shows you’re a good match but also helps your resume get past applicant tracking systems which are programmed to look for these keywords.

Use quantifiable achievements when possible. Instead of writing “experienced salesperson,” you might say, “Sales professional with a track record of exceeding targets by 20%.”

Examples of Resume Opening Statements

• Experienced marketing manager with a proven track record in developing successful campaigns and leading high-performing teams.
• Customer service expert committed to providing exceptional care and developing long-term client relationships.
• Detail-oriented graphic designer with 5+ years in the freelance industry, known for creativity and a quick turnaround time.
• Certified project manager who has successfully delivered over 30 large-scale technology projects on time and within budget.
• Professional content writer with a knack for crafting engaging content that boosts SEO and drives user engagement.
• Recent graduate with a Master’s in Environmental Science ready to apply rigorous research and analytical skills in a dynamic setting.
• Enthusiastic sales associate recognized repeatedly for top performance and commitment to team goals.
• Dynamic HR coordinator with a passion for improving employee relations and a deep understanding of recruitment processes.
• Organized administrative assistant, experienced in scheduling, office management, and providing excellent administrative support to executives.
• Skilled electrician with a focus on maintaining high safety standards and delivering quality service on residential and commercial projects.
• Ambitious business analyst, eager to use extensive background in data analysis and financial modeling to drive business insights.
• Compassionate social worker with a strong background in counseling and case management for diverse populations.
• Seasoned retail manager, adept at merchandising, staff training, and increasing sales through strategic store operations.
• Bilingual translator fluent in English and Spanish, dedicated to maintaining the essence of the original text in each translation.
• Professional chef with a love for farm-to-table cooking and experience managing fast-paced restaurant kitchens.
• Reliable logistics coordinator with a deep understanding of supply chain processes and a commitment to efficiency and cost-reduction.
• Goal-oriented fitness coach with a track record of designing personalized programs that help clients achieve their fitness goals.
• Versatile performer with experience in theater, film, and voice acting, ready to bring characters to life with enthusiasm and dedication.
• Data scientist with a passion for uncovering insights through big data analytics and advanced statistical methods.
• Talented web designer with a flair for creating intuitive, user-friendly websites that drive user engagement.
• Civil engineer with expertise in green building techniques and a dedication to sustainable urban development.
• Industrial designer with a knack for developing innovative product designs that meet consumer needs and manufacturing requirements.
• Doctoral candidate in Computer Science, eager to apply research on machine learning algorithms in a practical, industry setting.
• Skilled carpenter with a strong work ethic and extensive experience in residential and commercial construction.
• Professional photographer with expertise in portrait and landscape photography and a passion for capturing unforgettable moments.
• Certified public accountant with rigorous attention to detail and a strong background in financial analysis and tax preparation.
• Recent Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate, eager to provide high-quality patient care in a challenging healthcare environment.
• Expertise in aerospace engineering with a strong foundation in fluid dynamics and propulsion systems.
• Dedicated teacher with a focus on inclusive education and fostering a love for learning in every student.
• Results-driven marketing specialist with a solid understanding of digital marketing trends and analytics tools.
• Construction project manager skilled in leading cross-functional teams and delivering projects under tight deadlines.
• Laboratory technician with a meticulous approach to conducting experiments and analyzing scientific data.
• Seasoned journalist with a history of reporting on international events and an ability to uncover the truth in complex stories.
• Sophisticated fashion designer with a unique aesthetic and experience showcasing collections at major fashion weeks.
• Financial planner dedicated to helping individuals meet their long-term financial goals, with a flair for investment strategies.
• IT specialist with proficiency in network security and experience in protecting corporate data against cyber threats.
• Skilled mediator known for resolving conflicts and facilitating productive conversations in corporate environments.
• Professional fundraiser with a talent for crafting compelling campaigns that inspire community involvement and donations.
• Environmental consultant committed to helping businesses reduce their environmental impact through sustainable practices.
• Hospitality manager with a warm demeanor and a proven ability to increase guest satisfaction and hotel profitability.
• Multilingual interpreter with expertise in facilitating communication for international delegations and business meetings.
• Expert in supply chain management with a drive for optimizing operations and improving delivery timeframes.
• Agile coach with a passion for empowering teams to adopt agile principles and improve their workflow and productivity.
• Risk management professional with extensive knowledge in financial regulations and experience in mitigating business risks.
• Dynamic event planner with a reputation for organizing memorable corporate events and managing intricate details seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i craft an engaging opening statement for my resume if i lack professional experience.

Focus on your soft skills and any relevant academic or volunteer experience. For example, “Eager and disciplined recent graduate with a passion for data analysis and a keen eye for detail.”

What are the elements of a strong objective statement for an entry-level resume?

A strong objective statement should highlight your career goals, relevant skills, and how you can contribute to the company. For instance, “Recent graduate seeking an entry-level accountant position to apply my strong numerical proficiency and analytical skills.”

As a student, what should I focus on in my resume’s opening statement?

Emphasize your academic achievements, any related coursework, and the skills you’ve honed as a student. Example: “Honors student with exceptional leadership skills seeking an internship to explore a career in the non-profit sector.”

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• How to Introduce Yourself on a Resume (With Examples)

As with any first meeting, the Introduction to your resume is the first impression the hiring manager will have to consider you as a prospective candidate.  If organized and worded in a compelling manner, you will definitely gain the attention of the recruiter. Writing about yourself on a resume can be challenging.  You don’t want to say too much or too little.  Most recruiters spend as few as 6-8 seconds scanning a resume, so choosing impactful language is necessary to ensure that the reader will have a captivating impression of you.  Being brief and effective is the best approach; always keeping it simple. 

For starters, the hiring manager clearly needs to know who you are, where you are from and what you do.  This information is included at the beginning of all resumes, to include not only name, city/state, phone and email information, but also your LinkedIn profile and a website link, when available.  It is important that you list your proper name, one phone number and a professional email address. To ensure that the hiring manager knows what position you are seeking, a resume title or job objective may be added just below, or next to your name.  By adding these details the recruiter will immediately understand the job to which you are applying, and the ATS system will pick it up, as well.  For example a job objective might include language such as:

JOHN DOE, VP-Technology City/State • Phone • Professional Email • LinkedIn profile Solutions-driven software developer, with a B.S. in Computer Science.  5 years experience producing problem-solving results for technological issues in accounting. Seeking management role in a company where my data assessment skills will add immediate value.

Alternatively, a Professional Summary may be placed beneath your personal information,  especially if you have extensive experience.  Adding a Professional Summary will establish the tone for the rest of the resume.  It is important that the introductory information is relevant to the position, matches keywords and demonstrates your viability for the position.  The summary should include your current job title, years of experience, general expertise and one or two accomplishments.  Make sure that the language added in the Professional Summary/Introduction aligns with the position to which you are applying.  Always include Keywords and matching vocabulary to pass through the ATS System.  It will be necessary in most cases to revise or edit your resume for each position to which you are applying so that the respective ATS algorithm and hiring managers will recognize you.

A Professional Summary/Introduction on a resume should include brief sentences or phrases: your identification; what you do; how you do it; and how your efforts have benefited a company.  This is the formula to use throughout the resume.  An example might be:

Detail-oriented Legal Assistant with 12-years-experience, providing administrative support to Managing Partners in top-tier global law firms.  Achieved recognition for organizational skills and implementing new processes that enhanced operational efficiency .  Or… Established Real Estate Broker with over 10-years-experience, and an MBA, specializing in commercial leases in the greater (city) area. Oversight responsibilities for 7  professionals, etc.  Or…. Motivated and results-oriented professional (title) with 5-years in project management. Proven track record delivering projects on time and within budget. Excellent risk management skills. BA in accounting with supplemental certifications in (xyz certificate)

If you are unemployed or just entering the job force, then adding language from your academic background or skills obtained while unemployed, will be appropriate, and provide the recruiter with a snapshot of your capabilities.  Or, you can eliminate a Professional Summary and add a Career Objective and Skills List instead.  In either case, A brief list of Core Competencies or Skills below the Header or Career Summary will complete the snapshot of a candidate’s profile, and will help the hiring manager assess your viability for a job right away.  For candidates just entering the workforce or with no direct experience for a specific job, a Skills List might include accomplishments from your academic, community or volunteer background, which correspond to the job being considered, such as:

• Solutions-oriented
• Problem-solving
• Excellent communication skills - written and oral
• Flexibility
• Time management
• Always include technology and computer competencies: (Excel; Word; Coding, etc.)
• Social Media
• Second Language
• Customer Service
• Academic Achievements

To the extent that some of these skills match the requirements of the job description, they should be transferable and included in a list with supporting examples of how a particular skill impacted the results. In this way your lack of direct experience may be offset by soft skills that are also valued by the employer. 

Veterans Administration-Volunteer:  Demonstrated excellent written and communication skills; wrote and distributed marketing brochures for the community.  Recruited other volunteers with success; Collaborated with team members to streamline processes.

For more seasoned professionals, the Skills List should include demonstrated abilities that  directly relate to the position description, such as:

• Sales results
• Contribution to profitability or bottom line
• Management experience: how many did you supervise?
• Negotiating
• Data analysis
• Critical thinking
• Technical and job-specific skills, (as identified on the position description)

These are just a few examples of skills to consider adding to the resume, beneath or adjacent to the Career/Professional Summary, which will introduce you as a candidate for a specific position.  Again, with each item, a brief description of how that skill impacted the project or organization, with an example, will enhance the content.  However, a skills list should only include a few important bullets - a combination of industry-related skills, along with a few soft skills, such as: leadership, work ethic, communication, etc.

Just as with any content, the introduction on the resume should establish the “thesis” for the remaining content.  Everything that is added below the introduction should tie back to your introduction, and to the job description.  The flow of the resume, regardless of format, should include skills, education, career experience, notable achievements, and outside activities, and all should be relevant to the position.

The introduction on a resume is the recruiter’s first chance to know who you are, and what you may offer for their position.  The language should always be concise, and impactful, tailored to each job application.  If written properly, the hiring manager will want to know more about you, continue reading your resume, and set you up for an interview.  Always proofread your introduction for accuracy, ensuring that the vocabulary and information directly relate to the specific job.  In this way, your Introduction will be sure to have an immediate impact on the recruiter.

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How To Start a Resume in 2024 (+Resume Introduction Examples)

3 Key Takeaways:

• Resume introductions are brief statements that summarize the rest of your resume, highlighting your most relevant skills and qualifications.
• It's important to use a resume intro because it grabs the eye of the hiring manager.
• Best practices for writing a good resume introduction and how to customize it for each job post using the AI Resume Builder

You don't have much time to convince a hiring manager to read your entire resume. That's why a resume introduction is so important. As the first section of your resume, this summary uses a brief 1-3 sentences to explain who you are, what you do, and how you can add value to the company.

In this post, you'll learn the different types of resume introductions and how to write them. Plus, you’ll learn how to customize your resume introduction to make it stand out and get resume introduction examples to use as a guide for creating your own.

Struggling to write your resume introduction? Make one fast with Teal's AI Resume Builder.

Choosing a resume introduction

A resume introduction, not to be confused with a resume headline, is a brief statement that appears at the beginning of your resume, summarizing your professional background and qualifications. You might also hear this section called a professional summary, resume summary statement, career summary, short professional bio, resume objective, or personal statement.

Your resume's opening statement might include information on your educational background, relevant skills, work experience, or anything else that counts toward your strongest selling points. The idea is simply to provide a concise, well-written overview of any relevant information that will grab the employer's attention. ‍

Just like choosing the right resume format, you'll also need to choose the right resume introduction. There are a few different types of resume introductions from which you can choose. Make a good first impression by using the right one for your situation, such as a:

Resume objective

‍ While a career objective was once a staple in resume writing, times have changed. In today's job market, your goals and objectives are secondary to demonstrating your potential value to the organization. Rather than an objective statement, consider a professional summary that packs a persuasive punch.

Professional summary

‍ As a way to summarize your career, a resume summary (similar to a short professional bio ) is ideal for somebody who has diverse workplace experiences under their belt. We encourage most Teal users to stick with a professional summary. 

Qualifications summary

‍ Use a qualifications summary if your skills and experience are highly relevant to the position you're targeting. This can help prove that you're qualified for the job.

Why are resume introductions important?

The idea of a resume introduction is to catch the hiring manager's attention by providing a quick overview of your relevant skills , experience, and career goals.

This section of your resume is something you must pay attention to. Resume introductions are important because they "hook" a hiring manager, convincing your potential employer to keep reading and learning more about you.

An effective resume opening statement entices the reader by highlighting your unique selling points. It sets the tone for the rest of your resume and helps you stand out from other applicants.

How to write a resume introduction

In this section, we'll explore how to introduce yourself in a way that showcases your value and motivates the hiring manager to continue evaluating your application. The tips we'll share can mean the difference between getting an interview and being overlooked in the review process.

A powerful intro that sparks interest and highlights your strengths, experience, and passion for the work can lead to an interview—or mean missing the chance altogether.  

The tips we'll share will equip you to craft an introduction that gets you noticed and motivates the reader to keep turning the page. Make your opening count by showcasing what you can offer that no one else can.  

Want to save time? Try Teal's AI Resume Summary Generator to write a tailored, position-specific summary in a matter of seconds.

Focus on resume introduction length

Start a resume off right by choosing the type of introduction that's best for your current work history and industry skills. The best length for a resume introduction is 1-3 sentences. This gives you enough space to call out the most important information without going overboard (remember, the idea is to write something that people will actually take the time to read).

Match your resume introduction to a job

To more effectively position yourself as a successful employee, remember to customize your resume introduction for each job application. Read the job requirements mentioned in the job description and note any ATS keywords , technical skills, or other specific qualifications. Then make sure to incorporate those words into your resume summary or objective to position yourself as someone who has exactly what the company is looking for.  \

Pro Tip:  Teal's Job Application Tracker & AI Resume Builder help extract the top keywords so you can quickly customize your resume and let a company know exactly why you are applying for a specific position. (Teal's Matching Mode in the free AI Resume Builder can make writing a resume much easier—more on this in a minute.)

Include metrics

If you're able to include numbers in your resume introduction— specific metrics or other quantifiable information—this is a great way to prove your capabilities right off the bat. Metrics contribute to a great resume introduction because they demonstrate the impact you made at your prior organization.

To find metrics, consider how success and performance are measured in your industry or job position. Then see if you can dig up relevant numbers. Incorporate what you find by adding a resume opening sentence that sounds something like: "Accomplished mid-career copywriter who crafted SEO-optimized blog posts that improved click-through rate by 10%."

Use strong action verbs

Another helpful tip for the best resume introduction: Use action verbs. Strong action words help spice up your opening statements by bringing your prior work to life and strengthening your resume summary, as the hiring manager can easily picture the impressive work you did.

You can find countless lists of action verbs for resume online that will help you paint a vivid picture of your key skills in your resume intro.

Write your resume introduction last

And while this may sound counterintuitive, it's actually helpful to write your resume introduction last. It'll be faster and easier to go through your finished resume and pull out the highlights rather than starting from scratch (nobody likes staring at that blinking cursor).

Make it easier to write your opening statement and impress hiring managers by using Teal's AI Resume Builder . Teal's AI pulls from your work experience and any job description to quickly create a resume introduction tailored for every specific application.

Resume introduction examples

Regardless of your resume format, these examples of resume introductions can inspire you to create a compelling resume that will assist you in your job hunt.

Resume introduction example for a student

Even if you’re a student, a strong resume introduction can help you stand out. Here's a beginner resume summary example for a student:

"As a highly motivated student pursuing a bachelor's degree in biology with an interest in sleep research, I'm excited to apply my academic knowledge and gain hands-on experience in the field through an internship. I'm a quick learner and team player with a solid understanding of the principles of neuroscience, physiology, and research methodologies, and I am ready to contribute to ongoing research projects focused on improving our understanding of sleep and sleep disorders."

Example resume introduction for a recent graduate

Here's an example resume introduction for a recent graduate looking to kickstart their career. This sample highlights key skills, education, and relevant experience:

"As a recent graduate with a bachelor's degree in biology and a passion for understanding the science of sleep, I'm eager to apply my knowledge and skills to a career in sleep research. With a strong foundation in neuroscience, physiology, and research methodologies, I'm well-equipped to contribute to studies aimed at improving our understanding of sleep disorders and their treatments."

Resume introduction example for an entry level professional

Here's an example of a resume introduction for an entry-level professional starting their career. This section emphasizes skills and practical experience gained:

"As a skilled HVAC professional, my strong foundation in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems makes me well-equipped to make a positive impact. I have gained practical experience through hands-on projects helping with the installation and maintenance of various HVAC systems. I am confident that I have the skills and motivation to excel in this industry."

How to start a resume introduction for a mid-level professional

Here's resume introduction example for a mid-level professional looking to further their career. Starting a resume like this showcases specific expertise, highlights measurable achievements, and demonstrates a blend of analytical and creative skills to make a strong case for impact.

"As an experienced social media marketing professional, I'm excited to apply my project management skills and expertise to drive growth and engagement for your organization. With a proven track record of success in developing and executing social media strategies, I have a strong track record of delivering results managing social media campaigns across a variety of platforms. I am highly analytical and data-driven, and am also a creative thinker who is always looking for new and innovative ways to engage audiences and drive business results."

Example resume introduction for an experienced professional

Here's an resume introduction example for an experienced professional aiming to highlight their extensive expertise. This introduction focuses on key resume accomplishments , specialized skills, and the value they bring to their field or industry.

"With over a decade of experience as an attorney, I have a proven track record of success in handling complex legal matters, including contract negotiations, civil litigation, and intellectual property disputes. I am highly skilled in legal analysis, negotiation, and advocacy, and I have a reputation for delivering results that exceed expectations. My strong communication skills and attention to detail make me an asset to any legal team."

Write your resume introduction with Teal

If you're looking for a quicker and easier way to craft your resume, Teal can help. Use the AI technology integrated within Teal's AI Resume Builder to generate professional summaries directly within the Teal platform. 

By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive AI outputs of the highest quality:

• If you haven’t signed up already, create a Teal account and download the Chrome extension without any charges or commitments. 
• Next, log into your web browser account and select the AI Resume Builder on the left-side navigation bar.
• Scroll until you reach the “Professional Summary” section, then click the button that says “Generate with AI”. 
• If the response doesn't meet your expectations, you have the option to edit it or choose the "Regenerate with AI'' feature. 
• After selecting the best summary, make sure to save it.

Note: Each Teal member will receive ten AI credits for AI-generated content. Teal+ members can enjoy unlimited access to generative AI include summaries, cover letters, resume bullets and mock interviews. 

Create multiple versions of your professional summary using Teal’s AI integration feature. And while Teal creates your resume introduction based on your experience, you can also a job description to find (and then incorporate!) more relevant keywords. Finally, send your polished resume off to the job ad and impress human resources with your resume introduction and beyond.

Teal’s AI features can also help you generate resume accomplishments and an entire cover letter as well. Sign up for a free Teal account today to see for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key elements to include in a resume introduction in 2024, how can i tailor my resume introduction to different industries or positions, can i use a quote or testimonial in my resume introduction.

Hailey Hudson

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• Career Blog

7 Resume Introduction Examples to Follow in 2024

A strong resume introduction can make all the difference in landing a job interview. It’s the first thing a hiring manager sees, and it sets the tone for the rest of your resume.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of 7 resume introduction examples that you can follow to make a great first impression. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, these tips and strategies will help you craft an introduction that will get noticed.

So, why is the resume introduction so important? Simply put, it’s your chance to make a strong first impression and convince the reader that you’re a candidate worth considering. A well-crafted introduction should highlight your skills, experience, and achievements, and clearly demonstrate why you’re a great fit for the job.

Without a strong introduction, your resume may be overlooked, no matter how impressive your credentials may be. That’s why it’s crucial to spend time crafting a compelling introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and leaves them wanting to learn more.

In the following sections, we’ll dive into 7 examples of effective resume introductions. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what works and what doesn’t when it comes to crafting this all-important portion of your resume.

Traditional Objective Statement

A. explanation of traditional objective statement.

A traditional objective statement is a brief introductory statement typically placed at the top of a resume. It usually consists of a single sentence that concisely summarizes the candidate’s career goals and objectives. This objective should be tailored to the specific job or industry to which the candidate is applying.

B. Pros and cons of using traditional objective statement

• Helps the employer understand the candidate’s career goals
• Can make the resume seem more focused
• Shows that the candidate has put some thought into their career path
• Can be seen as outdated or irrelevant
• May limit the candidate’s job opportunities if the objective is too specific
• Can take up valuable space on the resume that could be used for more important information

C. Example of traditional objective statement

“Result-oriented professional seeking a challenging marketing position that utilizes my skills and experience in digital marketing and social media management to drive business growth and increase revenue.”

Summary Statement

A. explanation of summary statement.

A summary statement is a concise 2 to 3 sentence paragraph that highlights your most relevant experience, skills, and achievements. It is typically placed at the top of the resume and serves as an introduction to the rest of your document. The summary statement should grab the hiring manager’s attention and entice them to continue reading your resume.

B. Pros and cons of using summary statement

• Grabs the employer’s attention
• Highlights your most relevant experience
• Sets the tone for the rest of your resume
• May be too general and can lack specifics
• If not done correctly, can be off-putting or generic

C. Example of summary statement

As an experienced graphic designer with over 5 years of experience in creating visual media for a range of clients, I work well under tight deadlines and stressful environments. My technical skills using Adobe Creative Suite and my ability to create cohesive design concepts make me a valuable asset to any team.

Qualifications Summary

A. explanation of qualifications summary.

A qualifications summary is a short section located at the top of a resume that highlights the most important skills, experiences, and achievements of the applicant. It is a brief, concise overview that presents a clear picture of the candidate’s potential to the employer.

B. Pros and cons of using qualifications summary

• Grabs the employer’s attention immediately
• Showcases the applicant’s most relevant skills and experiences
• Easy to read and understand
• Provides a snapshot of what the employer can expect from the applicant
• May not be appropriate for all industries or positions
• Can be too generic if not tailored to the specific job

C. Example of qualifications summary

As an accomplished marketing professional with over eight years of experience, I am confident in my ability to deliver exceptional results in this role. My strong background in developing data-driven marketing strategies and executing successful integrated campaigns resulted in a proven track record of success.

My qualifications include:

• Expertise in using data analytics tools to identify customer behavior patterns and develop effective marketing strategies that drive engagement and sales
• Comprehensive knowledge of marketing automation platforms such as HubSpot, Marketo, and Pardot
• Proficiency in managing multi-channel campaigns, including email, social media, and display advertising
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage projects from ideation to launch
• Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to present complex data in a clear and concise manner

In my most recent role, I spearheaded a successful integrated campaign that resulted in a 20% increase in website traffic and a 15% lift in sales. I also implemented a lead-nurturing program that resulted in a 35% increase in qualified leads. My ability to execute successful campaigns while remaining attentive to the bottom line resulted in significant improvements to our overall digital marketing strategy.

My combination of strategic thinking, analytical prowess, and hands-on experience make me an ideal candidate for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to your team and drive exceptional results.

Profile Statement

A. explanation of profile statement.

A profile statement, also known as a professional summary or personal statement, is a brief paragraph located at the top of a resume that summarizes the candidate’s skills, experiences, and accomplishments. It provides a quick snapshot of the candidate, highlighting their distinctive qualities and value proposition. The profile statement is often used to grab the attention of recruiters or hiring managers and entice them to keep reading the rest of the resume.

B. Pros and Cons of Using Profile Statement

• Grabs attention: An engaging profile statement can capture the reader’s attention and encourage them to read the rest of the resume.
• Highlights unique skills: A well-crafted profile statement can quickly summarize the most important skills and achievements of the candidate, setting them apart from other applicants.
• Contextualizes experience: A profile statement can provide context for the candidate’s experience, explaining their career goals and objectives, and how they can benefit the company.
• Generic statements: Many candidates use generic, cliché statements in their profile, which can be unimpressive and unmemorable.
• Length: A long-winded profile statement can be off-putting for recruiters, who may have limited time to review a large number of applications.
• Style: A profile statement should match the tone, style, and language used in the rest of the resume.

C. Example of Profile Statement

As an experienced marketing professional with over 8 years of experience in brand management and digital marketing, I excel at developing and implementing comprehensive marketing strategies that drive business growth. My analytical approach to problem-solving, combined with my expertise in market research, social media marketing, and SEO, have enabled me to increase sales revenue by 25% and customer retention by 45% at my previous company. With a proven track record of success and a passion for innovation and creativity, I am confident that I can deliver measurable results for any organization looking to increase their market share and brand visibility.

The profile statement is an essential element of a successful resume. It provides a brief summary of the candidate’s credentials, highlights their unique skills and achievements, and entices the reader to continue reviewing the rest of the application. When well-crafted and tailored to the job requirements, the profile statement can be an effective tool to differentiate the candidate from the competition and position them as the right fit for the role.

Branding Statement

A  branding statement  is a concise statement that communicates your unique value proposition as a professional. It is a brief summary that communicates who you are, your key skills, and what sets you apart from others in your field.

B.  Pros and cons of using branding statement

• Helps you stand out among other candidates
• Helps you to communicate your skills and strengths effectively
• Makes it easy for hiring managers to remember you
• Helps you to focus on your career goals and aspirations
• It can be challenging to come up with an effective branding statement
• It can be difficult to make it unique and memorable
• It can be limiting if not crafted carefully

C.  Example of branding statement

As a marketing professional with over a decade of experience, I have developed a unique approach to building brand strategies that connect with consumers on a deeper level. My expertise lies in creating cohesive brand messaging that resonates with target audiences through compelling copywriting, storytelling, and design.

My passion for developing brand strategies is fueled by my ability to think creatively and strategically, resulting in campaigns that increase engagement, brand loyalty, and ROI. I have a demonstrated history of creating brand messaging that effectively communicates the unique value of brands, resulting in increased revenue and market share.

In my most recent role as a brand strategist for a global advertising agency, I led several campaigns for Fortune 500 companies. My ability to identify consumer pain points, craft compelling brand messaging, and build lasting connections has contributed to my reputation as a sought-after strategist.

My expertise in SEO, digital marketing, and social media marketing allows me to create holistic marketing campaigns that target customers across multiple platforms. Whether it’s crafting a social media campaign or developing a comprehensive content marketing strategy from scratch, I bring a blend of creativity, strategy, and data-driven insights to every project I take on.

My branding statement communicates my unique blend of skills, experience, and passion for creating effective brand strategies. As a dedicated professional with a proven track record of success, I am confident that my expertise and passion for building brands can make a positive impact on any organization.

As a copywriter and subject matter expert, I understand the importance of crafting a strong branding statement that effectively communicates your unique value proposition to potential employers. By focusing on your strengths, passions, and unique skills, you can create a branding statement that sets you apart and positions you as an ideal candidate for your desired role.

Career Objective Statement

A career objective statement is a brief statement, usually 1-2 sentences, that outlines a candidate’s career goals and intentions. It is typically located at the top or beginning of a resume and is used to grab the attention of employers and recruiters.

A. Explanation of Career Objective Statement

The purpose of a career objective statement is to give potential employers an idea of what kind of position a candidate is interested in and what they hope to achieve in their career. It is a concise and focused statement that should highlight a candidate’s relevant skills and experiences.

B. Pros and Cons of Using Career Objective Statement

• Shows the employer that the candidate has a clear career direction
• Helps to tailor the resume for a specific job position
• Can set the tone for the rest of the resume
• May limit the candidate’s opportunities
• Can come across as generic or lackluster
• Some employers may find it unnecessary

C. Example of Career Objective Statement

As a seasoned software engineer with experience in both front-end and back-end development, my objective is to obtain a senior software engineer position where I can contribute my technical expertise and leadership skills to drive innovation and deliver high-quality solutions for clients.

This career objective statement is effective because it clearly states the candidate’s career goals and relevant skills. It also showcases their leadership experience and dedication to innovation. However, it is important to note that the length and content of a career objective statement will vary depending on the candidate’s background and career aspirations.

A career objective statement can be an effective way to differentiate oneself in a competitive job market. However, candidates should weigh the pros and cons and tailor their statement to align with their career goals and the job they are applying for.

Personal Statement

A. explanation of personal statement.

A personal statement is a short paragraph or essay about yourself included in your resume or CV. It typically includes information about your background, professional goals, and relevant experiences.

B. Pros and Cons of Using Personal Statement

• A personal statement can help recruiters and hiring managers get a sense of who you are as a person and what motivates you.
• It can demonstrate your writing skills and ability to craft a concise and compelling message about yourself.
• It can set you apart from other candidates who may have similar qualifications, but lack personality and character.
• A poorly written personal statement can detract from your qualifications and make you appear unprofessional or unprepared.
• Some recruiters and hiring managers may not place much weight on personal statements and may skip over them altogether.
• A personal statement can take up valuable space on your resume that could be used to highlight other accomplishments or skills.

C. Example of Personal Statement

As a highly motivated and results-driven professional with over five years of experience in sales, I am confident in my ability to excel in any role. My passion for client satisfaction and proven track record of exceeding targets set me apart from other candidates in the field. I am dedicated to continuously improving my skills through self-development and collaboration with team members, and I thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

A strong personal statement should be concise, authentic, and relevant to the position you are applying for. It should showcase your unique strengths and value proposition as a candidate.

Elevator Pitch

A. explanation of elevator pitch.

An elevator pitch is a concise and well-crafted statement, typically 30 seconds or less, that sums up your professional background, skills, and goals. It’s called an elevator pitch because it’s short enough to be delivered during an elevator ride or any brief encounter with someone you want to impress or attract professionally. The idea is to make a lasting impression and spark interest in what you have to offer.

B. Pros and cons of using elevator pitch

The main advantage of having an elevator pitch is that it helps you communicate your value proposition quickly and effectively. You can use it in networking events, job interviews, or even social gatherings. It also forces you to crystallize your ideas and identify your unique selling points, which can be of great help in creating a strong resume.

However, some people argue that elevator pitches can sound rehearsed or even robotic, and that they don’t capture the full complexity of a person’s professional story. Moreover, some elevator pitches might come across as superficial or overly generic, which can turn off the listener.

C. Example of elevator pitch

Hi, my name is Jane. I’m a master’s student in data science with a passion for using technology to solve real-world problems. I have a background in applied mathematics and experience in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling. I recently completed an internship at a leading tech company, where I worked on a team that developed a predictive model for personalized marketing campaigns. I’m now looking for a full-time position in a data-driven company that values innovation and teamwork.

This elevator pitch highlights the candidate’s name, academic background, and professional skills, as well as her experience and accomplishments. It also conveys her motivation and values, which can be compelling to employers who seek candidates who are not only skilled but also passionate and driven.

An elevator pitch can be a powerful tool in your job search arsenal, but it shouldn’t replace a thoughtful and well-crafted resume that presents a more comprehensive and nuanced picture of your professional profile. By practicing and refining your elevator pitch, you can improve your networking skills, boost your confidence, and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Combination Approach

A. explanation of combination approach.

A combination approach, as the name suggests, is a strategy that combines different types of resume introductions. This means that one’s resume introduction may feature elements of a chronological, functional, or combination resume format.

The idea behind the combination approach is to highlight one’s strengths and achievements in the most effective way possible, while also addressing any potential weaknesses or gaps in their career history.

B. Pros and Cons of Using Combination Approach

• By using a combination of resume introduction styles, candidates can showcase their best qualities and achievements while addressing any shortcomings.
• This approach can be particularly effective for job seekers with diverse skill sets or those transitioning to a new field.
• The flexibility of the combination approach allows candidates to tailor their resume to specific job postings and employers.
• Creating a successful combination approach can be time-consuming and require careful planning.
• Candidates may find it challenging to strike the right balance between different styles of resume introductions.
• This approach may not be appropriate for job seekers with a straightforward career trajectory or those with limited work experience.

C. Example of Combination Approach

Let’s say that a marketing professional has extensive experience working in both traditional and digital marketing roles. In this case, a combination approach would allow them to highlight their digital marketing skills while still showcasing their traditional marketing experience.

Their resume introduction might start with a summary highlighting their skills and achievements in digital marketing, followed by a reverse-chronological listing of their work experience. By using this approach, the candidate can demonstrate their expertise in the field most relevant to the position they are applying for, while still showcasing their overall experience.

Ultimately, the combination approach is about finding the right balance between highlighting one’s strengths and addressing any potential weaknesses in their career history. By carefully crafting a resume that utilizes elements of different formats, job seekers can increase their chances of standing out from the crowd and landing their dream job.

Tips for Writing a Strong Resume Introduction

When it comes to writing a strong resume introduction, there are certain dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you make a great first impression:

A. Dos and Don’ts

• Do tailor your introduction to the specific job you’re applying for. This shows that you’ve done your research and are serious about the position.
• Do highlight your most relevant skills and experiences that make you a strong fit for the role.
• Do keep it concise and to the point. Hiring managers don’t have a lot of time to read through lengthy introductions.
• Do use keywords and phrases from the job description to show that you’re a good match for the position.
• Do show enthusiasm and passion for the job and the company.

Don’ts

• Don’t include irrelevant information or experiences that don’t relate to the job.
• Don’t use generic, overused phrases like “results-oriented” or “team player”. Instead, use specific examples to showcase your abilities.
• Don’t use cliches or buzzwords that make you sound like every other job candidate.
• Don’t make it all about you. Instead, focus on how you can contribute to the company and solve their problems.

B. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing your resume introduction:

• Making it too long or complicated
• Copying and pasting a generic introduction for every job application
• Focusing too much on your personal goals and not enough on how you can benefit the company
• Being too formal or stiff in your writing style
• Failing to mention the position you’re applying for

Remember, the resume introduction is your chance to make a strong first impression. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you stand out from the crowd.

C. Proven Strategies for Success

To write a strong resume introduction, follow these proven strategies for success:

Start with a clear objective: Begin your introduction with a statement that highlights your career goals and how they align with the company’s mission and values.

Highlight your skills and accomplishments: Use specific examples of your skills and accomplishments to demonstrate how they qualify you for the position.

Emphasize your experience: Showcase your relevant work experience, including any promotions or special projects that demonstrate your contributions to previous employers.

Use an engaging tone: Write your introduction in a friendly and engaging tone that reflects your enthusiasm for the job and the company.

Edit and proofread: Finally, make sure to edit and proofread your introduction carefully to avoid any errors or typos that could detract from your professionalism.

By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to writing a strong resume introduction that catches the attention of hiring managers.

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20 Best Resume Introduction Examples you can Use

This article shows you how to write an outstanding resume introduction, including providing great examples to enable you make one for your resume/CV and increase its chances of being read by the recruiter/employer.

The first section of your resume is the introduction. It is a short summary of your competence, knowledge, skills, and expertise that makes you a qualified candidate for the Job that you are applying for.

But the way you introduce your resume or CV goes a long way in determining whether it will be read or advanced to the next step of the hiring process or not.

So, it is important that you write a very good introductory statement for your resume to get the attention of the recruiter to read the whole of the document.

How to Make a Good Resume Introduction for any Position

To craft an outstanding resume introductory statement, you must present the right kind of information that the recruiter wants in a captivating manner using few lines.

The appropriate content for your resume introduction is published in the job description for the position.

Hence, before writing the introduction, you should study the job description to understand the skills, knowledge, and abilities that are essential for success on the role that you are seeking.

It implies that your resume introduction is position specific and you should write a different one for every position you are applying for.

Highlight the key words and phrases in the job description and proceed to apply them in three to four sentences to form your resume introduction.

When writing the introduction and the body of the resume or CV, it is vital that you highlight the key words as stated because your resume may be reviewed by ATS software, especially for online applications.

Writing your resume introduction following this approach guarantees that you will progress to the next stage of the hiring process, and affords you an opportunity for interview.

To aid your learning of how to make effective introductory statements for your resume, we have provided good examples:

Top 20 Resume Introduction Examples you can apply

• A+ certified effective communicator and team player with 3 years of technical support experience and Associate degree. Seeking a Technical Support Specialist position in M3. Coming with advanced knowledge of Windows OS, thorough documentation, and customer service skills to provide IT software, hardware, and network support for all M3 employees.
• Seasoned Java developer with 10 years of experience working with Agile and designing of software solutions. Offering strong Java skills and working experience with SQL (MySQL or PostgreSQL) and NoSQL (MongoDB or Cassandra), Cloud Infrastructure, JPA and ORM frameworks.
• Team player with strong oral and written communication skills and an analytical and problem solving aptitude. Seeking a Transportation specialist position in ABC to coordinate logistics and ensure proper priority to urgencies. Coming with sound judgment, expertise in transportation and international Logistics, and Bachelor’s degree.
• Highly motivated individual with proven leadership skills and 5 years of retail sales management experience, looking for the position of Apple Manager. Bringing exceptional coaching and interpersonal skills to inspire, and technical and business skills to provide superior customer service.
• Experienced tractor-trailer driver with clean driving record and valid Class A CDL License, seeking the position of a Fedex Truck Driver. Coming with Current DOT Medical Card and willingness to work a flexible schedule.
• Professional Communicator with excellent English writing, speaking, and reading skills, Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, and 10 years of corporate communications experience in the software industry with a global company. Interested in the position of Communications Director at Sage, to set out and oversee the strategy for internal and external communications.

More Resume Introduction Examples [7-13]

• Service-oriented individual with superb customer service and communication skills, interested in a Store Employee position at 7-Seven Inc. Bringing 2 years of retail sales experience, familiarity with cash register, and courteous attitude to drive sales.
• Graduate student with Bachelor’s in Animal Science interested in the vacant Cattle Field Sales Intern position at MFarm Inc., to utilize 3 years of sales experience, excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, to foster sales in the farm.
• Excellent communicator with passion for education, and ability to instruct in a “hands-off” manner. Interested in the US Creative position at Apple Store. Offering excellent coaching and presentation skills and the ability to teach in groups.
• Highly numerate individual with strong financial and analytical skills and Bachelor’s degree in Finance, seeking the position of Associate Finance in Goldman Sachs. Bringing proficient knowledge of financial analysis and modeling, and 3 years of experience to aid sound financial decision-making.
• Problem solver with strong analytical skills and AS degree, seeking the position of Accounting Associate at PwC. Offering broad knowledge of accounting and proficient skills in utilizing tax and accounting software.
• Seeking an Events Manager position in Trace3 to utilize 5 years of experience creating a series of events and trade shows. Coming with a creative mind and highly developed managerial and organizational skills honed from practice to promote brand image of clients.
• Detail-oriented certified digital marketer with content writing skills and solid online marketing background. Seeking a Digital Marketer position with TBC, to leverage marketing knowledge and 4 years of experience in fostering sales for TBC.

More Resume Introduction Examples [14-20]

• Technically inclined individual with good communication, math, and computer skills. Seeking a Freight Operations position in TBC Everything where 3 years of experience will be utilized. Coming with High School Diploma and the ability to operate forklifts.
• Micro Biologist with exceptional communication and presentation skills, seeking a Medical Sales Representative position at Orbit Medicals where 2 years of medical sales experience will be applied. Coming with high energy, knowledge of medical terminology, and Bachelor’s degree.
• Passionate individual looking to make a difference in young children, seeking the position of a Teacher to help develop, execute, and evaluate educational plans for Tuoro Schools. Coming with Bachelor’s degree in Child Development and 3 years of high school teaching experience.
• Energetic driver with valid class A Certified Driver’s License and track record of zero accidents in the last 2 years, seeking a Dump Truck Driver position at ABC, to leverage huge expertise and knowledge of local routes in providing prompt service.
• Seasoned caterer with 5+ years of experience in the food service sector, seeking a Catering Manager position with Rose Restaurant. Bringing solid customer service approach, culinary expertise, and interpersonal skills, and strong entrepreneurial mindset.
• Computer Scientist with proven technical, organizational, and communication skills. Interested in a Network Engineering position in TCB, to utilize 5 years of experience in systems management and configuration.
• Manually inclined individual with 2 years of janitorial experience and good communication skills, seeking a Residential Helper position with Trace3 Inc. to assist with collection of waste and recyclable materials. Coming with High School Diploma and exceptional ability to work in outdoor weather.

You can project your worth to the hiring manager and increase the chances of your resume been read, and secure an interview appointment with the recruiter by having a compelling introductory statement in your resume.

This post provides useful guide and examples to follow in making highly effective resume introductions.

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• Careers & Jobs

Resume Introduction: How to Write a Resume Opening That Impresses!

Having trouble starting a resume the resume introduction (opening paragraph) needs to be on point. here's how to write an intro paragraph on a resume sure to impress the hiring manager and hr reps.

“So tell us about yourself.”

That question may send a chill down your spine.

Where do you even start? Do you talk only about your work experience? Your personal life? Or just freeze up and say nothing?

Thankfully, resumes are usually the first glance that the employer will ever catch of you. 

Wondering how to start a resume?

Whether you apply online, drop it off in person, or post it on every streetlight (which we don’t suggest), you have the opportunity to craft a polished written statement that answers that dreaded question. 

That statement is what we call the  resume introduction statement . Want to learn how to craft your own? Keep reading below!

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Now, let’s get started with resume intros and opening statements:

First Impressions Are Huge

While first impressions aren’t everything, they are incredibly important. Especially when you are one lone resume in a sea of applicants. You need to shine!

Many scientific studies mention the importance of the first impression.  According to one study , a person forms their first impressions about someone within the first 1/10th of a second of seeing them.

While you don’t need to worry about landing your dream job in 1/10th of a second, you need to think about how your first impression with the employer will occur.

If you submit your resume through any online platform, such as a job listing or an email, then the recruiter’s first impression of you will be when they open the document. If science backs up the claim that  we make snap judgments within seconds , then we can assume that your resume introduction paragraph will be the true first impression.

So let’s make it awesome!

Related Read : How to List Education on a Resume: Complete Guide and Examples

What Is the Intention of an Opening Statement for Resume?

To make an awesome opening statement for your resume, we first need to break down what the purpose of the introduction really is. A Resume Introduction Paragraph is a short and clear way of sharing your personal interests and experiences with the employer. It is also a great way of clarifying what qualities you are looking for in a job.

Think about it like a first date for you and the company! (Actually, maybe don’t do that… that’s an HR nightmare waiting to happen.) Let’s use a different example.

A better example is the “Skip Ads” example: you are on YouTube, waiting to watch a new video. An advertisement comes up with a “You May Skip this Ad in 5 Seconds” button on the side.

What can that company say within the first 5 seconds that will get you to watch their advertisement?

Think about your resume’s opening statement as your personal advertisement. You are giving your potential employer a quick snippet of your product (which is you), and hopefully getting them to buy it!

Now that you understand the intention behind the resume introduction, let’s get into specifics. In the next section, we’ll break down the two main types of introduction paragraphs.

The Two Types of Introduction Paragraphs

There are two main types of resume intro paragraphs: The Resume Summary Statement and the Resume Objective Statement. While both set out to accomplish the same result, they are specifically formatted based on the amount of experience you have in the field.

The  Resume Summary Statement  is best for applicants with several years of experience in their field and are planning to progress within that field. The  Resume Objective Statement  is best for those new to the industry or anyone making a career change/coming back from an employment gap.

We’ll go into depth on both of these options in the next two sections.

Related Read : Resume Job History: How to List Work Experience on a Resume Right

The Resume Summary Statement

A Resume Summary Statement is a quick way to organize and focus on many years of work experience and projects in a relevant subject area. Summary statements often include quantifiable stats about your work. Some examples of those include:

• Managed a remote team of over 50 people
• Contributed to boosting positive customer reviews by over 45%
• Prepared 300+ students for standardized testing

Remember: you are more than a number, and so is your work. Don’t exclude something you’re proud of just because it doesn’t look “impressive” enough.

Also remember: numbers alone can’t get you the job. If you can sandwich together your quantifiable stats with specific descriptors of the experiences you can’t put into numbers, you are golden!

Here’s an example of that:

“Seasoned and innovative event planner with over 6 years of experience in the Atlanta entertainment industry. Organized and executed events with an attendance of 500+ people. Maintains a strong relationship with local leaders and community members.”

This summary statement gives the reader both quantifiable and contextual job experiences, which humanizes the applicant and gives the reader a clearer picture of who you really are (and how skilled you are at writing !).

Don’t have any specific examples that fit the job you’re looking for? That’s ok! You might do better with an Objective Statement. Let’s discuss that next.

Related Read : Hobbies and Interests on a Resume: Why and How to Include Them

The Resume Objective Statement

Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time, coming back from a break, or switching career paths, you might feel as though you don’t have relevant enough experiences to list in a Resume Summary Statement.

That’s where objective statements come in!

Objective statements are better for highlighting skills rather than experience. This is a great way to showcase skills you’ve learned in school or from jobs in other industries.

Some examples of this include:

• Dedicated and motivated engineering graduate seeking entry-level assistant quality control manager position with Company X
• Looking to transition my 4 years of experience in client-facing problem solving into a more behind-the-scenes role

When writing an objective statement, the most important thing is to  be specific.  If you don’t have any quantifiable statistics about your job experience, you must be specific about where your current expertise fits in with the company.

Let’s use the “skip ads” example again here: you may have a product that people don’t think they need, but if you can garner even a smidge of that person’s interest within the first 5 seconds of your ad, they might try and find ways to justify purchasing your product.

Have you decided which type of statement is best for your experience level? Great! Now, let’s dive into how to start writing your personal statement.

Related Read : Resume Skills: How to Put Skills on a Resume the Right Way in 2021

How to Start

If you happen to already have an  elevator pitch , that is a great place to start!

Don’t have an elevator pitch? Don’t worry. You can check out our other blog post on “ How to Create an Elevator Pitch in 5 Easy Steps ”.

If that rent payment is quickly approaching and you don’t have time to read another article, that’s ok too. Just follow these EASY instructions:

Examine your work history. What have you previously done that could fit this position? Is there a quantifiable way to state that? If so, do it!

Accomplishments

What are some of your most impressive accomplishments? These can be both in your work life and your personal life if it makes sense to include. (Maybe don’t tell them about that hot dog eating contest you won in Florida, though.)

Proficient in a certain software? Include that. Great at public speaking? Include that. If something you’re good at happens to fit a task you might face at this new job, include it!

Whatever you decide to include, make sure you can actually do it. And make sure you can do it on the spot if asked to.

You are more than your job experience. Recruiters aren’t hiring resumes, they’re hiring people. Make sure your opening statement matches the vibe that you want to give off.

For example, if you are an incredibly creative and outgoing person, you probably want to tell them more about your people skills than your Excel spreadsheet skills. No harm in mentioning both, just start with what you feel represents you best.

Related Read : How to List Your Achievements on Your Resume (the Right Way) in 2021

You Have Everything You Need to Succeed

Now that you have all of the information needed on how to open a resume, it’s time to do just that!

If you get stuck at any point or just need an extra boost of motivation before you start, remember this:  you are enough.

You are not just your job experience, you’re a human being! Career changes, gaps in employment, and first jobs are all a part of life. You are exactly where you need to be to get the job you want.

Need help with the rest of your resume? We’ve got you!

Check out one of our other resume writing blog posts in our career section . And, if you have any questions on writing a great introduction statement or opening paragraph on a resume, just leave a comment below.

Thanks for reading, and good luck on your job hunt!

Related Read : 55 Resume Tips, Hacks & Expert Advice to Help You Score a Job Interview

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How to Write The Perfect Resume Introduction (with examples)

Published on:

• June 23, 2023

The quickest way to grab attention is with a good beginning or introduction. An excellent resume introduction will hook the recruiter from the get-go.

In most cases, people will tell you to start at the beginning of your resume if you are unsure of how to begin it. But that’s not going to help.

You see writing your resume introduction last is actually the best strategy. You will be able to find it much easier to highlight the important things when your entire document is ready.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to craft the perfect resume introduction paragraph that gets recruiters reading all the way to the end of your resume.

Choosing a Resume Introduction

The hiring manager only has six seconds to evaluate your resume. You need to make your resume introduction stand out if you want to get their attention.

Before choosing what you want to write on your resume introduction, however, it is also important to figure out how you will say it.

What is the best way to introduce yourself on a resume? 

What is the message you want to convey, what are your strongest selling points?

These are some of the things you need to include in your profile.

It’s good to know the guidelines for writing an introduction for your resume are the same across industries.

You can choose from these resume profiles or introductions depending on your level of experience and skills: Resume Objective and Resume Summary.

Resume Objective

A resume objective, also known as a career objective, is a paragraph that outlines your relevant skills, experience, or knowledge to demonstrate that you have the potential to become a  successful employee. It also briefly explains the job position you’re seeking in a company.

When to Use a Resume Objective

Resume objectives are the best resume introduction if:

• You’re just starting out your career (entry-level) or have little experience.
• You’re switching industries or careers or if you need to explain an unclear career path.

Examples – No Work Experience or Applying for an Internship

These examples highlight the skills and motivation a candidate needs to demonstrate that they’re worthy of the company’s investment.

“Dedicated nurse assistant seeking an internship at Bright Care Center. Love helping residents feel healthy, cared for, and at home. Detail-oriented mindset and warm personality make me an excellent advocate for residents and their needs.”

Example #3 – Career Change:

“Highly-motivated software engineer with 7+ years experience developing software solutions. Seeking to leverage proven Ruby, Python, Java, and C++ skills to deliver coding excellence to Samuel & Sons, Ltd. Developed 4 website software tools for enterprise marketing. Built 7 mobile apps with improved interactive UX/UI 25+ websites for B2C entrepreneurs.”

Example #4- Switching Industry:

Although the candidate in the example below switches sectors, the emphasis is on the skills and experience that an NGO can use.

“Experienced marketer for McDenver Construction Corp. with over five years’ experience. Seeking to apply my construction background and related skills to help local NGOs raise awareness and sales through low or no budget marketing methods.”

• Although it’s called an “objective,” your resume heading statement shouldn’t focus solely on what your objective is. Everyone knows it’s to get a job, so don’t make it your personal mission statement.
• Don’t write: “I’m looking for a challenging role that will enhance my skills .” HR experts say that writing things like this is so cliche and outdated.

Resume Summary

A resume summary statement sums up your professional background and achievements at the top of the resume. It briefly explains how it can benefit the company you want to work for. By demonstrating your unique value through your skills and accomplishments, it shows why you are perfect for the job. The hiring manager will be more likely to read on if you outline your key skills and quantifiable results from the start.

When to Use a Resume Summary

When you have several years of experience or are continuing your career, a resume summary is the perfect resume introduction.

“Customer Support Agent with more than 3 years of experience. Specialized in telephone customer service, email and technical support, and sales and customer care. Adept in using Intercom, Drift, and other customer care software. Assisted customers with signups and data entry, and handled 100+ phone calls daily. 80 WPM typist”

Summary of Qualifications

It is a type of resume introduction that contains a bulleted list of accomplishments, skills, and relevant experience proving you’re a perfect fit for the company. Include 3 to 4 easy-to-skim bullet points in paragraph form to emphasize your most impressive career highlights and skills.

Having a summary of qualifications at the top of your resume will enable hiring managers to quickly and easily identify your most relevant and impressive qualifications. This will increase your chances of landing an interview or getting hired.

When to Use a Resume Summary 

• You have an extensive record of accomplishments in your industry or field.
• You possess certifications relevant to the position you are seeking.
• You have special skills and expertise to demonstrate on your resume.

Example#1: For Project Manager

• Experienced project manager with 5+ years of experience managing mid-sized teams on high-level projects.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and management and leadership abilities.
• Completed projects with a minimum of $10K under budget and 10% faster than estimated.
• Interested in leveraging project management skills and knowledge as a senior project manager at Built Pro Remodelers.

Example #2: For Executive Assistant

• Executive Assistant with five years experience working for Summers & Sons Company
• Manage an office budget of $50K per month
• Negotiated directly with service providers to reduce travel expenses by $5.5K
• Oversee a team of 8 specialists in administrative support

Resume Headline

It’s a brief, one-line phrase that describes your skills, accomplishments, and services, and communicates what you can provide when you join the company. A resume headline should be relevant and brief, similar to that of a news headline. It should also highlight your related qualifications for the job.

Who should use a resume headline

Your resume headline, also known as your resume title is placed at the top of your document, immediately under your contact information. You can use a resume title no matter what your industry, title, or experience level is.

• If you’re an experienced professional, a resume headline is a great way to highlight your greatest career achievements.
• If you’re applying for an entry-level position or you don’t have much experience, the resume headline gives you a chance to describe your current qualifications and what you hope to accomplish.
• If you’re having trouble fitting all the information on your resume onto a one- or two-page template.

  Examples:

• Top Grossing Sales Manager with 5+ years of experience who generated $500K+ monthly sales.
• Efficient Project Manager delivering projects 10% faster than projected.
• Personable and Bilingual Call Center Agent with 5 Years of Experience.

Start With The Rest of Your Resume

It is important for a resume to begin with an engaging introduction. As employers must look through hundreds of resumes a day, they scan them in seconds. Since they are quick to judge, you need to make a good first impression. As such, it is crucial to grab the employer’s attention with the first sentence of the resume, so they continue reading.

A resume headline is determined by several factors including your qualifications, your experience, and whether or not you’re looking for a job within the same sector.

The thing is…

How can you write a resume introduction that makes a strong first impression?

Start a resume by working on the other sections.

First, list your work experience, skills, education, and any other sections that highlight your achievements.

After you have completed the bulk of the resume body, you can then move to your introduction and highlight those achievements or skills in your summary or objective.

When you write your resume introductions last you will make it relevant to the rest of your resume sections.

Writing a Resume Introduction

Here are some tips to make your resume introduction more compelling and strong:

• Keep it short and concise . One to three powerful sentences is enough to showcase your qualifications.
• Customize your resume introduction to the position you’re applying for. Take note of the attributes they are looking for when examining the job ad.
• Use action words to enliven your introduction to hook the hiring manager’s attention until the end of your resume.
• Use resume keywords to optimize your resume and pass the ATS scans.
• Focus on the value you can give. Instead of focusing on what makes you unique as a person, focus on what makes you valuable to your employer. They are likely to hire you if they believe the value you provide meets their needs.
• Avoid using first-person pronouns such as “I” and “You” . Using them will draw attention to yourself instead of letting them know what you can do for the company.
• Proofread your work once you’ve finished it. You don’t want a couple of typos to ruin your hard work.

Key Takeaway

The following things should be taken into account when writing your resume introduction:

• Choose a resume objective or summary for your resume.
• Highlight your strengths, achievements, and qualifications.
• Use the job posting as a guide to tailor your resume intro.
• Keep it short, use action-oriented words, and focus on your value.

Marissa Letendre, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Marissa Letendre is a senior HR leader and resume expert with over 12 years of experience. She has worked for both startups and Fortune 50 corporations and has helped thousands land jobs at top companies. Marissa has written on a wide range of topics, including employee engagement, career development, resumes, job searching, recruiting, and organizational effectiveness and has been featured on sites such as Slack and The Undercover Recruiter.

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How to Write an Opening Statement for Your Resume + 10 Examples

What a resume opening statement is, when you should include one, and real examples to help you write your own. A guide written by recruiters and hiring managers.

3 years ago   •   10 min read

Recruiters are busy, and they might receive hundreds of applications for one position in a single day. Studies have shown that employers spend an average of 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume before tossing it in the “yes” or “no” pile, and with such a slim margin, it’s important to have a resume that grips the reader from the start. One great way to draw in a recruiter is through an opening statement on your resume.

What is a resume opening statement?

An opening statement is a short paragraph at the beginning of the resume that gives the employer a snapshot of what you can bring to the table, and why you are the best choice for hire. It’s essentially your elevator pitch — the first impression you make in an interview when the recruiter says, “So, tell us about yourself.” Broadly speaking, there are 3 types of resume opening statements:

Resume summary

• Resume objective
• Resume offering statement

Types of opening statements

Here's a breakdown of the different types of resume opening statements, including the pros and cons of each one:

A resume summary statement is a quick overview of your background where you can highlight key skills and experience. This is the most common type of resume opening statement — essentially, it's a type of brand statement , like an abridged cover letter. Here's an example:

Experienced web developer with a background in X, Y, Z programs, winning awards in CSS Design (2019) and Apple Design Awards (2020), and most recently reduced bus for XYZ by 25% .

Pro: Allows you to quickly highlight key skills and experience relevant to the job you're applying for.

Con: Doesn't add anything of value if your resume is otherwise self-explanatory, so make sure your opening statement adds something that's not otherwise

How to write your resume opening statement

Here's an example of an opening statement with specific things you should try to include.

Other types of opening statements (what not to do)

There are two other types of statements that were popular a few decades ago — an objective and an offering statement. We've just included them here for completeness and to show you the formats you should not be using.

• Resume objective : This style of opening statement is generally used to show recruiters your enthusiasm for the role. An example might sound like this: Example: Searching for dynamic marketing position in a fast-paced , modern company where I can utilize my organizational, creative, and project management skills to drive growth in digital markets. Objective-style opening statements typically include statements such as: “Looking for a position where I can grow and gain experience in XYZ” or “Looking for a job where I can use my skills to help a company meet targets and increase revenue.”   Objective opening statements are outdated and unnecessary, so don't include this on your resume.
• Resume offering statement : A resume offering is kind of like a sales pitch, focusing on the value you can bring to an employer. Unlike a standard resume summary, an offering statement focuses on what you will do, not on what you have done. It might look something like this: Example: I will increase engagement on your company's social media channels by developing a strong brand voice and reaching out to key influencers within the [industry] sphere.

How to write a resume opening statement

• Title your opening statement (optional).
• Lead with the job title. If you're applying for Marketing Director roles, that's how you should describe yourself.
• Describe the scope of your experience.
• Mention 2-3 key skills or accomplishments that match the job description.
• Include metrics to quantify your achievements.
• Include any specific highlights from your resume that show why you’d be a great fit for the position.
• Run your resume through a free resume checker to see how well your summary scores.

An opening statement template

Here's a template you can use for your resume opening statement:

[Executive] with experience leading [industry] businesses [describe size of businesses]. [Describe impactful element of role, with specific numbers]. Proven experience [mention 2-3 skills that are relevant to the job]. [Optional: Describe relevant educational certification/accomplishment, or one significant accomplishment in the format of Action Verb + Accomplishment + Metric].

Resume opening statement examples

Here are some more examples of resume opening statements to get you started:

Example 1: Experienced / Senior-Level Job Seeker

Human Resources Manager with 15 years’ experience in human capital management, talent acquisition, and workforce administration, handling diverse employment processes for small to large companies. Saved over 50% of overall recruiting costs by structuring and implementing standardized policies in hiring and recruitment, compensation structures, benefits, and incentives. Proficient in delivering services in line with EEO, IRS, and labor laws.

Example 2: Mid-Level Job seeker

Data Entry Specialist with five years’ experience utilizing manual and digital skills to enter texts and numerical data from source documents into databases, spreadsheets, and word processing programs. Implemented regular quality control checks to analyze data and make corrections in real time-, enhanced data entry accuracy by 77%. Achieved $6,500 cost-savings in company expenditures by identifying consolidation opportunities during company bookkeeping.

Example 3: Senior-Level Job seeker

Marketing Executive with ten years' experience working at Fortune 500 companies. Results include: • Designed, executed , and optimized digital marketing campaign on Google's AdWords for $20B CPG company, yielding 20% ROI improvements • Optimized budget allocation of marketing spend of $10MM for technology startup

An effective resume opening statement needs to highlight your key skills, quantifiable achievements and any other experience/accomplishment that shows recruiters why you’re the best person for the job. A good way to find out if your resume does just that is to upload it to the tool below — it’ll give you a detailed analysis of your opening statement and suggestions for improvements.

When is an opening statement appropriate?

You might be asking yourself, “Does my resume need an opening statement?” and the answer is: Maybe. If you have 6 years of receptionist experience and you’re applying for another run-of-the-mill receptionist role, then your resume will speak for itself, and an opening statement runs the risk of taking up unnecessary space.

However, if you have 6 years of receptionist experience and you’re applying for a hotel manager position, then an opening statement is a great opportunity to sell yourself on this change of direction.

So, who should definitely include an opening statement on their resume? Let’s take a look.

You're changing careers

Like our receptionist-turned-manager above, changing jobs is one of the key moments when having an opening statement would be advantageous. This is the moment to explain how your past experiences—albeit in a different field—have actually given you the necessary skills to succeed in this new position.

Here's an example of a career changer resume summary:

Ex-Head Receptionist for XYZ Firm transitioning into Hotel Manager position. Previous experience in managing a team, organizing and overseeing large company events including planning menus and contacting caterers, handling finances and administrative records, and ensuring health and safety standards remain up-to-date.

Here's how an opening statement might look on your resume - it uses another example:

More information: Resume summary advice for career-changers

The employer is looking for a specific skill

Sometimes a job will require a very technical or unique skill which you possess, but which might not come out otherwise in your resume. This can include something like speaking a foreign language , or having a certain type of driving license, or being proficient in a certain type of machinery or computer program. Here's an example:

Native Turkish speaker with experience working in Marketing for an international company. Available to travel and work remotely. Valid Turkish and USA passport.

By including this skill in the opening statement of your resume, you are ensuring that the recruiter will see it immediately, and know that you are the perfect fit for the position. If there are certain keywords that the job description requires that you haven't included anywhere else in your resume, feel free to include them in your opening statement.

If you’re not sure which keywords and technical skills are relevant to the job you’re applying for, use the skills search tool below to find the right ones.

More information: How to ensure your resume gets past automated resume screeners

You have many, many years of experience

If your resume spans 20 years and seems to go on forever, then this is your opportunity to distill everything into a bite-sized paragraph, to keep the recruiter from missing something important. You want to bring forward your best accomplishments and key experiences, especially in relation to the job description. Don’t assume that something buried in your job description from three years ago is going to jump out at the reader—make it front and center like this:

Stagehand with 15+ years experience, especially familiar with setting up pyro-technics while complying with industry-specific health and safety guidelines. Accomplishments include: -  Set up X that led to Y result … - Earned expedited promotion in less than 2 years

And here's how an opening statement for someone with a lot of experience might look on a resume:

To highlight recent accomplishments in a relevant field

An opening statement is a great moment to draw the recruiter’s attention to how something you personally accomplished has already benefited a previous employer or client. This can include Awards and Certifications, statistics on workflow improvement, recognition inside the workforce, or other impressive accomplishments . Here's an example:

Engaging customer service representative, recently named Top Agent at XYZ for three consecutive months. Led in-house employee training on Customer Engagement leading to a 60% decrease in negative customer reviews.

This is another example of a resume opening statement.

When don't you need an opening statement?

Your career trajectory is self-explanatory.

Most job seekers don't need to include an opening statement on their resume. If your work experience and educational background is in line with the kind of jobs you're now applying for, or if you're already in a similar role, your work history and accomplishments likely speak for themselves.

You're a student or recent graduate

As a student or recent grad, you're unlikely to have enough experience on your resume to warrant summarizing. Instead, make sure your education is listed front and center, along with industry-specific internships or other jobs showing your talents and abilities.

Additional tips for your resume's opening statement

1. use the same words as in the job description.

If you feel a little lost wondering what skills, qualities, or experiences to put in your opening statement, here’s some good news: the recruiter has done this work for you. If the job description says they’re looking for someone with an XYZ certification or experience with specific hard skills,  then don’t hesitate to put those words into your opening statement verbatim.

Online systems filtering resumes will often be scanning for wording which matches the job description, and this will keep your resume from slipping through the cracks. Find out what keywords to include on your resume with the Job Description Keyword Finder .

2. Eliminate buzzwords and vague terminology

Yes, we all know that you are “passionate about e-commerce,” but save that for your cover letter . Mention instead the statistics on how greatly you’ve improved sales for your clients, or draw attention to the way you’ve integrated a client’s social media platforms to their web-shops, to drive in traffic. We know you’re enthusiastic and hard-working, but this isn’t the place for it, and employers will generally skim over these empty and lackluster descriptions.

This is also called quantifying your resume , and if there's one article you should read before you send off your resume, it's that one.

3. Be concise.

Don’t list 10 relevant awards you won going back to a university competition in 2001 — pick one or two which are the most impressive. Make a list of all your relevant experiences and skills and then whittle it down to the very best, and let those shine.

4. Title your resume's opening statement (optional)

In general, if your opening statement is located at the top of your resume, then you don’t necessarily need to spell out what it is we’re looking at—it’s pretty clear. However, you definitely can add a title if you like, something like:

• Profile, Professional Profile, Professional Statement
• Introduction, Summary, About
• Personal Statement, Personal Profile

5. Check your spelling

It goes without saying, but check and check again for any spelling or grammatical errors. Proofread it, proofread it again, get your mom, dad, or grandma to proofread it, read it aloud to your cat, and then run it through a spellchecker or online grammar resource if you’re still worried. This is your first impression to a potential employer, and you want to show them that you’re competent!

6. Get your resume's opening statement checked

Once you’ve added an opening statement to your resume, it’s time to see how well you’ve done. Head over to our free resume scanner , which evaluates your resume against key criteria, and see in real time how likely your resume is to catch an employer’s attention.

Resume opening statements: A crash course in jargon

If you've been looking for advice on how to write a resume opening statement — or summary — chances are you've run into a lot of unfamiliar phrases. Here's a brief explainer:

A resume profile or resume summary statement are different names for a resume summary and are often used interchangeably.

An executive resume summary or career highlights section are usually targeted toward people with an extensive career history or who are applying for high-level positions. These might include slightly more detail about your work experience, for example, standout accomplishments from early in your career that might otherwise not belong on a resume.

A resume objective or career objective is an alternative to a resume summary. Objectives are generally considered outdated compared to resume summaries but can be useful in very limited circumstances (often for people very early in their careers or without any relevant experience).

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What is a good introduction for a resume?

With recruiters only spending about 6 seconds reviewing a single resume, having a resume introduction that grabs the recruiters’ attention right off the bat is extremely important.

It can make or break your chances of landing an interview as it determines the type of first impression you can make on potential employers.

So what makes a great resume introduction or summary?

For starters, your resume introduction must highlight some of your most impressive accomplishments, qualifications, and skills concerning the job description.

It needs to be crisp and concise, yet impactful enough to make the recruiters want to read more of your resume.

This guide will help you understand the dos and don’ts when it comes to writing an impactful resume introduction and provide clarity on FAQs related to the topic.

• What is a resume introduction?
• How to write a resume introduction?
• What are some good resume introduction examples for freshers?
• What are some business analyst resume introduction examples?

What is a Resume Introduction?

A resume introduction, also known as a resume summary or objective, is a brief overview of an applicant’s career trajectory which appears at the beginning of a resume.

The purpose of a resume introduction is to grab the recruiters’ attention and highlight the years of experience the candidate has, any relevant certifications they might hold, and their strengths in terms of the role’s requirements.

A good resume introduction is not more than 2 to 3 sentences and is tailored for a specific job description. It must include critical information such as the applicant’s job title, area of expertise, and notable accomplishments.

Additionally, it must include keywords that can help the resume rank high in Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by 75% of recruiters to filter applicants.

Generally, there are two types of resume introductions used by job seekers depending on their level of experience - resume summary and resume objective.

For instance, if the candidate is a fresher with less than 1 year of experience, he/she must write a resume objective, while seasoned candidates write resume summaries.

Also Read: How to write a resume summary in 2023?

How Do You Write a Good Introduction for a Resume?

A professional resume introduction statement can make a significant difference in the weight and impact of your resume by helping you make a solid first impression on recruiters.

To ensure that your resume introduction achieves just that, here are some tips that you can follow while writing an introduction for resumes:

Choose the Right Resume Introduction

As stated earlier, there are two types of resume introductions used by job seekers based on their level of experience - summary, and objective.

Choose the right resume introduction that suits your case so that you can make it more compelling.

The difference between the two is when you’re writing a resume objective as a fresher, you must highlight your educational background, certifications, skills, and academic accomplishments while expressing your interest in leveraging your potential to benefit the company.

Whereas, when you’re writing a resume summary as a seasoned professional, you need to highlight the years of experience you have, your area of expertise, professional accomplishments, and strengths in terms of the job description.

Tailor Your Resume Introduction to a Specific Job Description

While you might be tempted to use the same resume to apply for multiple job listings, doing so will significantly decrease your chances of getting shortlisted.

This is because a generic resume introduction makes your resume average. Recruiters only have eyes for the best candidates who can stand out from the crowd.

Therefore, you need to tailor your resume introduction to the job description provided in the listing and level up your resume.

Analyze the job description to identify the pressing requirements of the role and corresponding to that, highlight the strengths that showcase you as the ideal candidate who can meet those requirements efficiently.

Use Keywords and Terminologies from the Listing

To help your resume rank high in the ATS and make your resume introduction more compelling, you must use keywords from the job description and similar terminology used in the listing.

For instance, if the job listing calls for a ‘content writer’, consider using the same terminology in your resume introduction rather than opting for synonyms like ‘content creator’ etc.

The same goes for keywords. If the job description uses words like ‘result-driven’ or repetitively refers to a specific skill like ‘time management’ as a key requirement, include the same in your resume introduction.

Focus on Your Unique Value Proposition and Use Numbers

Analyze the job description to identify your strongest skills and strengths that make you stand out from other candidates.

Once you have clarity on the same, highlight the unique value you can bring to the role in your resume introduction.

And don’t forget to use numbers and figures when talking about your accomplishments to provide a clear picture of your potential to the recruiters.

Following these approaches will ensure that your resume introduction is compelling and impressive.

Keep It Concise and Crisp

Another mistake you’d want to avoid when writing your resume introduction is making it too lengthy, vague, and full of cliches or generalizations.

The idea is to keep the introduction of your resume limited to 2 to 3 sentences and write impactful short sentences using action verbs, keywords, and numbers.

Also Read: What are some tips for writing a compelling LinkedIn summary in 2023?

Good Resume Introduction Examples

Given below are some resume introduction samples that you can refer to write your own:

Resume Introduction for Freshers (Objective)

Result-oriented Finance Graduate with 6 months of internship experience in deploying analytical & database tools to scrutinize business operations. Proficient in employing effective data analysis techniques for sound decision-making & successful execution of projects.

Detail-oriented computer science graduate seeking an entry-level position as a software developer. As a skilled aspirant proficient in using programming languages such as Java and Python, I am eager to contribute to a dynamic team and gain hands-on experience in software development.

Creative and dedicated recent graduate with a degree in marketing seeking an entry-level position as a Marketing Coordinator. Armed with strong communication skills and the ability to develop and execute marketing strategies with proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, I’m eager to leverage my knowledge and skills for the growth of the company.

Business Analyst Resume Introduction Examples (Summary)

Dynamic Business Analyst professional adept at deploying analytical and database tools to scrutinize business operations across multiple sectors & deliver client-centric solutions. Highly skilled in identifying and fulfilling client requirements within the framework of organizational work processes and employing effective data analysis techniques to support business decisions.

Also Read: When and how should you write an objective in your resume?

Key Points from the Blog

• A resume introduction, also known as resume summary or objective , is a brief overview of an applicant’s career trajectory that appears at the beginning of a resume.
• If the candidate is a fresher with less than 1 year of experience, he/she must write a resume objective, while seasoned candidates write resume summaries.
• Tailor your resume introduction to the job description and use keywords to grab the recruiters’ attention.
• Use numbers and figures when talking about your accomplishments to provide a clear picture of your potential to the recruiters through your resume introduction.
• Keep your resume introduction clear, concise, and not more than 2 to 3 sentences.
• Highlight your best accomplishments, skills, years of experience, area of expertise, and certifications while writing your resume introduction.

Want to make a brilliant resume with an equally compelling resume introduction? Use Hiration’s ChatGPT-powered resume builder with 24x7 chat support. If you have any queries, you can reach us at support(at)hiration(dot)com.

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How to Start a Resume: Choosing the Right Introduction

The introduction is one of the most  important parts of the resume . Employers generally scan through resumes in a matter of seconds as they have so many to look through. As they are quick to form a judgement, you need to make sure that you give a  positive first impression .

The  first part of a resume  is the most important, it needs to quickly see you to the employer and grab their attention. If it doesn’t, the rest of the resume won’t be looked at.

The  best way to start a resume  depends on a number of factors such as your qualifications, experience, and whether you are looking for a job in the same industry or not.

This means that if you are  applying for jobs  in different industries, you should tailor your resume for different positions and choose different  resume introductions  for each. Doing this from scratch is very time consuming which is why it is better to use  resume templates .

Choosing a resume introduction

As it is the  most important section of the resume , your introduction can make the difference between getting a first interview and you resume being thrown into the wastepaper basket.

There are three ways of  starting the resume : a career objective, a qualifications summary, or a professional profile. It is essential to choose the one which best fits you to the position you’re applying for.

Career objective

A  career objective  (also referred to as a  resume objective ) is ideal for candidates who are writing an  entry-level resume . It is a statement of two to four sentences which targets a specific position, addressing the requirements set by the employer in the job posting. This is  how to start a resume with no job experience

If you are lacking in relevant experience for the position, the career objective is the best way to  start writing a resume . It emphasizes aspects of your personality, character, and work ethic which show would be suited for the job.

Qualifications summary

The  qualifications summary  is perfect for candidates applying for jobs in a different industry. It is laid out in five or six bullet points which demonstrate the  abilities and accomplishments  which meet the requirements stated in the job posting. It can focus on work and academic achievements

This way to  start writing a resume  is well-suited to candidates who are applying for a job in a different industry as it emphasizes an applicant’s  skillset  over their experience. It is longer than a career objective and acts as a  resume summary .

Professional profile

Start off a resume if you are writing a  professional resume  and looking for a job in a similar role or industry. It is a  combination of a career objective and a qualifications summary .

It is a  flexible style  of introduction and can be formatted as a paragraph or as bullet points.  Experienced candidates  can tailor it to focus on their strengths.

Writing the first section of a resume

Once you have decided  what to use to start a resume  you need to craft it. Whichever of the three formats you choose, your introductions have to be clear, concise, and focus on your strong points.

You should change the introduction for each job application aiming to match your skills, abilities, and experience with the job requirements stated in each job posting. Follow the corresponding  tips for starting a resume  depending on which resume introduction style you choose.

Career objective: what to include?

A  career objective  should be a single paragraph consisting of two to four sentences (ideally three). It should include the years of relevant  work experience  (if any), past job responsibilities, most important skills, abilities, and personality traits, and relevant qualifications, certificates and licenses.

Focus on your strengths.  For example, if you are writing a  student resume  and have no relevant experience, don’t highlight this. Instead, place emphasis on your qualifications, abilities, work ethic, and personality strengths.

Qualifications summary: what to include?

Consisting of five or six bullet points, a  qualifications summary  should focus on a candidate’s key accomplishments, highlighting the applicant’s key competencies.

Focusing on transferable skills  such as leadership, creativity, communication, efficiency, and management skills makes this format ideal for those looking for a career change. order the bullet points from top to bottom in terms of importance.

Professional profile tips: what to include?

The  professional profile  is much more flexible and is ideal for  experienced candidates . Whether you choose to format it as a paragraph or a bullet points, you should focus on years of relevant experience, areas of expertise, career achievements, and transferable skills.

Using an online  resume builder  is the ideal way of producing a  professional-looking attractive resume  which highlights a candidate’s strengths. It means you don’t have to  start a new resume  for each job application, but use well-designed templates instead.

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Resume Examples for 2024 & Guides for Any Job [90+ Examples]

In today’s competitive job market, having an impactful resume is more essential than ever. 

However, many job seekers struggle to craft a resume that effectively highlights their skills and experience and, in turn, misses out on potential job opportunities. 

This is where our extensive library of resume examples comes in. 

By looking at examples of resumes for different industries and professions, you can gain great insight into what works and what doesn’t, get inspired to present your own qualifications, and stand out from the competition.

Let’s dive in!

15+ Resume Examples

#1. architect resume example.

Here’s what this architect resume example does right:

• Lists related experience. This resume highlights the relevant professional experience the candidate gained in the field during their internship.
• Mentions achievements and responsibilities. The candidate backs up their claims by going into detail about their achievements and responsibilities. 
• Focus on personal projects. By dedicating a section to their personal projects, this candidate makes up for their lack of work experience and shows off their dedication to the industry. 

#2. Business Resume Example

Here’s what this business-related resume example does right:

• Prioritizes work experience. The work experience section is arguably the most important section in every resume, which is why this candidate has given it a priority by giving it enough resume space and going into detail about their previous positions. 
• Highlights accomplishments. To make their professional experience even more impactful, this candidate has supported all their claims with quantifiable achievements. 
• Lists the right optional sections . The candidate adds more value to their resume by including the organizations, honors, and conferences as optional sections.

#3. Computer Science Resume Example

Here’s what this computer science resume does right: 

• Prioritizes technical skills. Technical skills are essential when it comes to IT-related roles, which is why this candidate has prioritized them over soft skills.
• Keeps the education section concise. With such extensive professional experience in the field, the candidate has opted to keep their education section short.
• Lists relevant social media profiles. Listing websites like GitHub and LinkedIn is a great way to provide recruiters with additional information about your skills.

#4. Data Analyst Resume Example

Here’s what this data analyst resume does right: 

• Includes a strong resume summary . This candidate showcases their key skills and qualifications from the get-go, which is much more likely to get recruiters to read their resumes from start to finish.
• Highlights technical skills. Data analysts work with “big data,” so this candidate prioritizes their quantitative and technical skills over other resume sections.
• Lists relevant professional certifications . The resume lists the candidate’s most noteworthy professional certificates.

#5. College Resume Example

Here’s what this college resume example does right: 

• Lists relevant social media profiles. By including their Medium and LinkedIn accounts, this candidate gives the hiring manager a chance to know them more professionally. 
• Highlights achievements . Although they lack work experience, the candidate has listed everything they’ve achieved during their academic career, thus showing they’re a promising candidate. 
• Mentions the right optional sections. Adding hobbies and interests and foreign languages to a resume is a huge plus for a candidate with no work experience.

#6. Customer Service Resume Example

Here’s what this customer service resume does right: 

• Includes both soft and hard skills . Customer service roles require a mix of soft and hard skills, so this candidate has listed both. 
• Mentions quantifiable achievements. To make their achievements more impressive, the candidate has backed up their work achievements with data and numbers. 
• Lists foreign language skills. Foreign languages are a huge plus when you’re working in customer service and this resume does a good job highlighting the candidate’s foreign language skills. 

#7. Digital Marketing Resume Example

Here’s what this digital marketing resume does right: 

• Follows the reverse chronological format . This format is the most popular one worldwide and is easily the safest choice.
• Grabs attention with a resume summary. In a single glance, the recruiter can tell that the candidate is a digital marketing professional with the right amount of experience.
• Lists relevant skills. The digital marketing specialist resume above lists in-demand marketing skills like Google Ads, SEO, and others.

#8. Graduate Resume Example

Here’s what this graduate resume example does right:

• Starts off with a well-written resume objective . The resume objective does a great job of showing off the candidate’s promise and industry-related experience. 
• Includes work experience. The candidate has gained professional experience while they were a student and they’ve made sure to include that in their resume. 
• Takes advantage of optional sections. Sections like volunteer experience, and personal projects and achievements can help make up for the lack of extensive experience in the industry. 

#9. HR Resume Example

Here’s what this human resources resume example does right: 

• Follows the right format. The reverse chronological format lists the candidate’s latest experience and achievements first, which is exactly what recruiters want to see. 
• Highlights professional experience. With so many years in the industry, this candidate has dedicated the biggest part of their resume to their work history. 
• Includes courses and certificates. To make their achievements even more impressive, the candidate has included all their courses and certifications. 

#10. Medical Assistant Resume Example

Here’s what this medical assistant resume example does right: 

• Starts off with a memorable resume summary. The candidate lists their years of experience, skills, and passion for the industry, making it more likely for the hiring manager to read the rest of their resume. 
• Lists the candidate’s certificates. There are many certifications one can obtain in the medical field, and this candidate proves how professional they are by listing theirs. 
• Highlights the candidate’s extensive work experience. Experience speaks louder than a thousand words, which is why this resume example provides the work experience section its due space. 

#11. Project Manager Resume Example

Here’s what this project manager resume example does right: 

• Uses bullet points. The candidate uses bullet points to organize and present the information which makes this project manager resume example look neat and structured.
• Keeps their education section relevant. The candidate only includes their key education details, such as their Bachelor’s degree and a field-related minor.
• Takes advantage of additional sections. The candidate takes advantage of the extra space on their project manager resume by including relevant additional sections, such as their industry-related certifications and academic achievements

#12. Bar Manager Resume Example

Here’s what this bar manager resume example does right:

• Includes relevant social media profiles. Details such as your LinkedIn profile or Instagram handle make you look more professional (as long as they’re work-related). 
• Mentions industry-related skills. Instead of listing a bunch of unrelated skills, the bar manager resume example above only lists industry-relevant skills.
• Quantifiable achievements. This applicant quantifies their achievements as much as possible, showing the bar owner how they stand out amongst other candidates.

#13. Supervisor Resume Example

Here’s what this supervisor resume example does right: 

• Lists relevant contact details . The supervisor resume example above leaves out redundancies like marital status or age and includes relevant information, like a LinkedIn URL. 
• Features as many accomplishments as possible. To really highlight their candidate’s professional experience, the supervisor example lists achievements over responsibilities. 
• Lists the right kind of skills. This supervisor's resume example doesn’t list every skill under the sun. Instead, they keep the section relevant by only listing skills required from a supervisor. 

#14. Teacher Resume Example

Here’s what this teacher resume example does right:

• Mentions industry-relevant skills. The candidate lists all the soft and hard skills a teacher should have. 
• Includes hobbies and interests . By including hobbies and interests, the hiring manager will see the candidate as more than just a resume. 
• Lists volunteer experience. The candidate reinforces their teaching experience by including their teaching volunteer gigs and experience. 

#15. Writer Resume Example

Here’s just what this writer resume example does right: 

• Impressive resume summary. The resume includes a brief but effective resume summary that highlights the candidate’s skills and top achievements.
• Relevant contact details. This writer resume example contains relevant contact information, including the candidate’s name and surname, email address, phone number, location, professional website URL, and LinkedIn URL. 
• Short education section. A writer’s skills and experience matter more than their education. For this reason, this candidate kept their writer resume’s education section short and sweet. 

#16. Web Developer Resume Example

Here’s what this web developer resume example does right: 

• Focuses on technical skills. Technical skills are essential for web development, which is why this candidate has prioritized theirs.
• Grabs attention with their work experience. Their rich work experience, listed in reverse chronological order, shows the candidate is a promising professional.
• Keeps their education section minimal. With such extensive work experience and training, the candidate has kept their education section concise.

65+ More Resume Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a resume example for your field? Worry not!

Below you can find a number of other resume examples for different fields and industries:

• Accountant Resume
• Administrative Assistant Resume
• AI Engineer Resume
• Animator Resume
• Babysitter Resume
• Banking Resume
• Bank Teller Resume
• Barbie's Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Bookkeeper Resume
• Business Analyst Resume
• Career Change Resume
• Caregiver Resume
• Cashier Resume
• College Application Resume
• College Freshman Resume
• Consultant Resume
• Construction Project Manager
• Creative Resume Examples
• Data Entry Specialist Resume
• Data Scientist Resume
• Dentist Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Digital Marketing Manager Resume
• Editor Resume
• Electrical Engineer Resume
• Elon Musk's One-Page Resume
• Engineering Resume
• Esthetician Resume
• Europass CV
• Event Planner Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Federal Resume
• Financial Analyst Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Fresher Resume
• Game Designer Resume 
• Graphic Designer Resume
• High School Resume
• Illustrator Resume 
• Interior Designer Resume
• Internship Resume
• Java Developer Resume
• Military to Civilian Resume
• Marketing Executive Resume
• Minimalistic Resume Examples
• Nanny Resume Example
• Nurse Resume
• Office Assistant Resume
• Office Manager Resume
• Operations Manager Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Photographer Resume
• Program Manager Resume
• Real Estate Agent Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Restaurant Manager Resume
• Retail Manager Resume
• Richard Branson's One-Page Resume
• Sales Resume
• Sales Associate Resume
• Satya Nadella's One-Page Resume
• Server Resume
• Social Worker Resume
• Software Engineer Resume
• Stay-at-home Mom Resume
• Student Resume
• Student Resume Templates
• Taylor Swift Resume
• Video Editor Resume
• Volunteer Resume
• Waiter/Waitress Resume
• Warehouse Worker Resume
• Web Developer Resume
• Welder Resume

5+ Examples of Resume Templates

Your resume template can play an important role in helping you make a great first impression on the hiring manager. 

Specifically, your industry, work experience, or skills all impact how your resume should look, so make sure to choose the right template when making your resume: 

#1. Traditional Resume

A straightforward format that gives equal importance to all resume sections , emphasizing skills and work experience.

#2. Creative Resume

Land your dream job in the creative industry by using this creative resume template. 

#3. Minimalist Resume

A simple and easy-to-follow resume template. Perfect for more conservative industries which prefer less flashy templates.

#4. Basic Resume

This easy-to-personalize basic resume layout can be ready in under ten minutes through our resume builder .

#5. IT Resume

One of the best resume layouts to choose when you wish to showcase your IT expertise.

#6. Modern Resume 

It can be hard to stand out from the crowd, but this modern resume sample will take care of this.

#7. General Resume

5+ Resume Examples by Career Level

#1. no experience resume .

Are you a student with no experience ? Learn how to write a compelling resume with our guide! 

#2. College Freshman Resume

Learn how to ace your college freshman resume with our comprehensive guide! 

#3. Graduate Resume

Fresh out of college? Write an impactful graduate resume to land your first gig after college. 

#4. Career Change Resume

Going through a career change? Perfect your career change resume to make the transition as smooth as possible. 

#5. Manager Resume

#6. Executive Resume

The Perfect Resume Structure 

Not sure how to structure your resume?

Here’s our tried-and-tested resume layout :

• Choose the right resume format or pick a template. If you’re formatting your resume yourself, follow the reverse-chronological format and make sure to follow the right layout rules. Alternatively, you can use one of our premade resume templates and not have to worry about formatting your resume one bit. 
• Add relevant contact details and make sure they’re mistake-free. You shouldn’t be missing information such as your full name and job title, e-mail address, and where you’re based. Optionally, you can also include some relevant social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn.
• Include a resume summary or a resume objective. Done right, a resume summary will show the hiring manager you’re a relevant candidate from the get-go and have them read the rest of your resume.
• List your work experience, placing special focus on your achievements. Your work experience becomes more meaningful if you include your achievements in your past roles and manage to make them quantifiable.
• Mention your top soft and hard skills. List any skills you have that are relevant to the job you’re applying for in a seperate section. 
• Keep your education section short and concise. Unless you’re an entry-level candidate with little-to-no work experience, keep your education section short and to the point. 
• Leverage optional sections like “Languages,” “Certifications,” or “Hobbies and Interests.” Fill up the rest of your resume space with optional sections that can highlight your strengths and qualifications as a candidate (e.g. foreign languages you speak, certifications you’ve obtained over the years, or your hobbies and interests).

3 Examples of Resume Formats 

#1. reverse chronological resume format.

This resume format highlights your experience and key professional achievements by listing your latest position and acquired skills first. It’s the most popular resume format among recruiters and the one we advise job seekers to use in 99% of cases. 

#2. Functional Resume Format

A functional resume , also known as the skill-based resume, is a resume format that focuses on your professional skill test as opposed to work experience. You’re better off using a functional resume if you’re a recent graduate with no work experience, if you’re switching careers, or if you have a long employment gap . 

#3. Hybrid Resume Format

A combination resume combines the two traditional resume formats: the reverse-chronological resume and the functional resume.

As such, this format places emphasis on a candidate’s skills and work experience. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Examples

1. Are resume examples helpful?

Resume examples are helpful for several reasons. For starters, they can inspire you to write an A+ resume that meets the industry’s requirements. 

Also, resume examples can show you the best practices for listing your work experience and achievements, can guide you through your resume formatting and can help you understand exactly what the end result should look like.

2. How were these resume examples created?

All our resume examples and resume templates were created in full collaboration with industry-leading HR professionals.

This means that they meet all job market requirements, are modern and impactful, and meet recruiters’ standards worldwide.

3. What if I can’t find a resume example for my job?

While we’ve tried to list as many resume examples as possible for different jobs across several industries, it might happen that you can’t find the resume example that perfectly matches your needs. 

If that’s the case, you can check out our guide on how to write a resume , and learn to create an effective resume regardless of industry.

4. What is the best resume format in 2024?

The reverse-chronological format is still the best resume format in 2024. It remains the most widely used and preferred format by employers and recruiters alike. In this format, you list your work experience in reverse chronological format, starting with your most recent position and working backward.

This format showcases our most recent and relevant experience, making it easier for employers to see our career progression and accomplishments. 

5. Are these resume examples free? 

Yes, most of these resume examples can be used for free in the Basic account, while there is also a selection of templates included in the Premium account. All of them though can be tested for free in our editor. 

6. Do you also have cover letter examples?

Yes, we have an entire article dedicated to cover letter examples for different fields and jobs. Not just that, but you can also find tips on how to write a great cover letter and an FAQ section to answer any question you may have. 

7. Should my resume and cover letter match?

Yes, having a cover letter that’s consistent with your resume in terms of style, tone, and content can be a plus for your overall job application. In a nutshell, a matching resume and cover letter can increase your chances of getting an interview by demonstrating your professionalism, attention to detail, and suitability for the role. 

Conclusion 

And that’s a wrap!

We hope the examples and guides provided in this article can help you create a powerful and effective resume that highlights your unique qualifications and experiences. 

Whether you're a recent graduate, a mid-career employee, or a seasoned professional, there are tips and templates here to help you create a compelling resume for any job.

For more career advice, make sure to check out our career blog . 

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• How to Write a Cover Letter...

How to Write a Cover Letter (With Example)

10 min read · Updated on September 26, 2024

Cover letters aren't a thing of the past!

If you dread writing cover letters, know you're not the only one. You've put a lot of work into writing your resume , and now you need to sell yourself in a great cover letter.

The task can feel daunting, but it's an important one, so try to approach it one step at a time. Before you know it, you'll have the perfect cover letter to pair with your perfect resume, and you'll be ready to catch the attention of hiring managers.

Let's start with the basics, and then we'll walk you through each section of the cover letter — and even give you an example.

What's a cover letter, and why are they important?

A good cover letter is a one-page document that emphasizes to future employers what you want to do next and why you think you're the best person for the job. Yes, your resume does that, to a degree, by highlighting your skills and qualifications , but the cover letter goes a step further. 

When you write a future-facing cover letter, employers can learn about any career shifts you've had or are making. You can talk about how you've overcome past challenges and how those have prepared you to succeed in new jobs. 

Basically, your cover letter is a story employers want to read that allows them to connect what you've done in the past with what you want to do in the future. It's a chance for you to shine a spotlight on your enthusiasm, how your values align with the company's mission, and the particular things from your past that will prove beneficial to the new team. 

How to write a cover letter

Your cover letter needs to have a particular format. It should be written as a business letter and contain

A header with your contact information

A salutation, e.g., Dear So and So

3-4 body paragraphs

A call to action

A sign-off/signature

It's a good idea to have the font, margins, and alignment mirror your resume. This will help make your entire application appear more professional. Also, keep your cover letter on one page. 

Since you're trying to make a great impression with your cover letter in an attempt to distinguish yourself from other candidates, try to inject some of your personality into it. Let the hiring manager start to get to know the real you. 

How to write a cover letter: A step-by-step guide

Although cover letters are fairly short, they can be quite daunting. That's why it's important to approach your cover letter by sections:

How to write a cover letter: Header

Your cover letter and resume are a package, so you'll want them to match. Start your proper cover letter with your name (formatted like it is at the top of your resume) along with your contact information.

When you search for generic cover letter templates online, you might find ones where you'll fill in a company's contact information. That was relevant when cover letters were sent via snail mail, but these days, you can just leave it off. A hiring manager doesn't need to see the address of their office building.

How to write a cover letter: Salutation

Below your contact information, add the date you're applying and greet your intended recipient . If the job description doesn't include the name of a hiring manager or team leader, here's how to find this information:

If the job listing has an email address, use it to search for a name on Google or through an online company directory.

If the job listing is on LinkedIn, see if you can track down the original poster.

If the job description mentions who the job reports to, search for that individual or position title in a company directory.

If you still can't find a name to address your cover letter to, avoid phrases like “To whom it may concern,” “Hey,” or “Dear Sir/Madam” – these are overused cover letter cliches that won't serve you well at all. Instead, address it to the department that's hiring (e.g. Dear Editorial Team) or the team manager (e.g. Dear Customer Service Manager).

How to write a cover letter: Introduction paragraph

You should kick off your great cover letter by introducing yourself. This is the perfect opportunity to explain why you're interested in the role and the company and what you can bring to the team. 

This is also your chance to demonstrate you've done your homework, showing you know something about the company or industry. Additionally, if you found the job through a colleague already at the company or through a mutual connection, this is a great place to drop their name.

If you're confident in your writing skills and feel creative, you can swap out the standard introductory paragraph with an anecdote related to your work. This should grab the reader's attention and also illustrate the most important – and relevant – skills you possess for the job at hand. 

If you're curious to learn more about this idea, communications expert Danny Rubin explains “storytelling” cover letters with examples. This is definitely a great way to hook the reader into wanting to read your entire cover letter.

How to write a cover letter: Qualifications paragraph

After you've introduced yourself, use the second paragraph of your professional cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and qualifications . Instead of simply listing these (you already did that on your resume), use this as an opportunity to illustrate how you are qualified to do this job. Spell out how your professional experience, education , and abilities meet the position's core requirements.

This is arguably the most important section, as it clearly explains to the reader why your application is worth a read. 

Certified professional career coach and TopResume's resident career expert Amanda Augustine suggests identifying three or four core must-have requirements from the job description , listing each in its own bullet within the cover letter, and explaining how you meet these requirements.

Don't forget to tie each requirement back to the job itself; you want the hiring manager to understand exactly what you can bring to the company.

How to write a cover letter: Career achievements

As with your resume, the best way to prove you have the right skills and qualifications is to highlight career wins . But you'll do it a bit differently on your cover letter. Of course, the focus will still be on the impact you made and the skills you used to achieve results. The main challenge is converting the statements you used in your resume into a narrative.

Instead of writing something like, “Increased sales by 20% by creating comprehensive marketing campaigns,” you'd want to expand on that and turn it into a story. For example, 

“While I was at ABC Corp, I worked with department heads and senior leaders to identify goals and created a new marketing campaign that increased sales by 20% in 6 months. My passion for collaboration and strategic planning has equipped me to fulfill the tasks of the position you have available and will ensure that I can effectively work with the people on your team.” 

This works because it fuses the past with the future to show prospective employers what you have to bring to their table. 

How to write a cover letter: Close with a call to action

You're almost done! Now, it's time to wrap up your cover with a specific call to action. 

Rather than merely asking for the hiring manager or recruiter to review your resume, let them know when you will follow up with them about your application. This keeps the ball in your court and gives you a legitimate reason to follow up.

Your closer is also the perfect spot to show your enthusiasm and excitement. Don't go overboard, but don't be afraid to let them know you're excited about this opportunity.

How to write a cover letter: Sign off

Once you've thanked a hiring manager for their time and consideration, it's time to sign off.  Think about how the closing salutations you use for your professional emails. Keep it simple with “best regards,” “sincerely,” or “thank you.”

A note on cover letter keywords

As you write your unique cover letter, keep keywords in mind. Just like you added keywords to your resume , you'll want to do the same for your cover letter.

Remember, these aren't just catchy buzzwords. Keywords are the words you see repeated in the job listing. Including these keywords in your cover letter will help ensure it gets seen and prove to the hiring manager you understand the job listing.

Use this cover letter example for guidance

If you're still struggling to get started, check out this free cover letter sample to give you a better idea of how you can structure your cover letter.

Remember: The information should be tailored to the specific role and company, and the format of the cover letter, such as the font, should match the look and feel of your resume. 

How to write a cover letter: Tailoring it for each job

Now that you've got your successful cover letter let's reiterate one final point: It's important you tailor your cover letter for each job application . 

Of course, you'll want to update the company name and the position title, but take it one step further and mention specific facts about the company, the job requirements, and your most relevant skills. Doing this will woo the hiring manager and show you're serious.

You don't have to write a brand new cover letter for each job, however. Instead, create a cover letter template and make copies of it for each job application you submit. Simply leave blanks for the hiring manager's name, the specifics about the company, and your relevant professional skills, then customize them to each job description.

Once you've created a solid template, you've gotten the hardest part out of the way, and it should make applying to jobs a lot easier.

Expert Tip: Did you know that you can use AI to analyze your cover letter against a particular job description? At TopResume, we embrace the use of AI as a tool to help you do your absolute best. In this instance, all you have to do is type out a prompt that asks ChatGPT (or whatever your preferred AI platform is) to analyze your cover letter against a job description. Then, you paste both into the program and let it tell you if you're missing any relevant keywords.

Your career, your story, your future

In every interaction with a future employer, you have to put your best foot forward in a way that actually gets noticed. Too many people enter the job search without the right knowledge to successfully search for, apply for, and land a new job. By following the steps outlined here, you can create a cover letter that stands out to hiring managers and intrigues them to the point where they want to know more about you. That's what leads to interviews. 

Nailed your cover letter but still not feeling so hot about your resume? Let an expert help with a resume rewrite .

This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine . It's been updated by Carson Kohler and Marsha Hebert .

Recommended Reading:

9 Cliches to Cut From Your Cover Letter Right Now

The Right (and Wrong) Ways to Show Personality in Your Cover Letter

How to Tailor Your Cover Letter for Each Job Application

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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