Yes, Your Résumé Needs a Summary

1. Tailor your summary to each job application.

2. Highlight your areas of expertise most relevant to that position.

3. How other organizations have improved because of you.

4. types of organizations and industries you’ve worked in.

4.1. include years of experience

5. Avoid generic terms such as results-driven, proven track record, excellent communication skills, team player

6. Focus on specific results

6.1. How have other organizations benefited from your work? And which of your accomplishments distinguish you from other candidates?

7. Note the types of organizations and industries you’ve worked in.

7.1. The marketing executive began her summary with “pharmaceutical”—the one industry she’s worked in throughout her career

8. • “Project manager with 18 years of experience leading cross-functional teams to deliver children’s technology products and family museum experiences to international audiences.

9. • Strategy leader for brands with complex and diverse product lines.

10. • Communicator skilled at exciting audiences at conferences, online, and in products and exhibits.”