Dec. 1, 2024
Read time: 2 minutes and 14 seconds.
tags:You know, it’s funny how job hunting can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack.
But here’s the thing—focusing on achievements rather than just listing skills can make all the difference.
Trust me, I’ve been there. When I was on the hunt for my dream job, I realized that what really set me apart was showcasing my accomplishments more than “strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well with others”.
Think about it. Anyone can say they have “strong communication skills” or are “proficient in Excel.” But what does that even mean? It’s like saying you’re good at breathing. Instead, I started highlighting specific achievements—like the time I led a project that increased sales by 20% or when I organized a charity event that raised over $10,000. These concrete examples painted a vivid picture of what I could bring to the table.
And it’s not just me. I’ve helped a bunch of folks draft resumes for their dream jobs and grad school programs, and the strategy is always the same: focus on achievements.
One of my friends was applying for a competitive internship, and her initial resume was full of generic skills. “Expert Excel User”, “Strong finance background”,….
We revamped it to highlight her outstanding performance in previous roles—like the time she streamlined a process that saved her team hours of work each week by drafting a script. She landed the internship, no sweat.
Another client was aiming for a management position but felt stuck in a sea of applicants. We shifted the focus from his skills to his achievements, like leading a team to complete a major project ahead of schedule and under budget. Suddenly, he wasn’t just another candidate; he was the guy who got things done. And guess what? The dude lands the gig.
It’s a weird sort of fulfilling work, especially as a side hustle. But i’ve always loved helping people shine bright and their best. Not sure what that means for the times I have sort of “settled”. But, no matter the job market, you should always shop around for your best option and choices. Your employer is always doing the same thing.
Make yourself memorable.
When you highlight your achievements, you’re telling a story about your impact.
You’re not just another resume in the pile; you’re the person who made a difference. It’s like the difference between saying you can cook and sharing that you once prepared a five-course meal for a hundred people.
One’s a skill, the other’s an achievement—and guess which one’s more impressive?
It’s strange, but who knew that resume advice and sharing about putting your best foot forward is borderline motivational / career coaching? I didn’t! But in today’s crowded job market, it’s good to make yourself shine as much as possible. And hey, if you’ve got some killer accomplishments, don’t be shy about sharing them. It’s your time!