Even the most powerful executive needs to have a resume. This is a chance to showcase one’s skills and expertise. Professionals looking for high-level supervisor or management positions need resumes that explain their work experience, specializations and skills. Such executive resumes are a bit more detailed than a normal or traditional piece. After all, such professionals have necessary experience in their fields, which makes the added detail important and relevant. The following are some tips for how to write and refine an executive resume.
Statement Summary
Professionals should provide readers with a two-sentence overview of their experience, background and specialization. In just a moment, a reader understands how long this person has been in the business, what their key strengths are and whether or not they are suited to the corporation, business or open position. This summary should be direct and focused. Using active verbs and thoughtful word choices is important. Applicants need to consider what sets them apart from other people in the field.
Areas of Expertise
High-level managers need to have experience in a variety of areas. When writing this piece of an executive resume, applicants should consider the advertised job and this group’s mission and focus. There is a big difference between an advertising company and a communications or multimedia corporation. Molding the resume to highlight key strengths and areas of expertise is important. This section should highlight important high-management skills like increasing profits, cutting expenses and inspiring staff to create innovative projects. This is also a great place to list key accomplishments and awards.
Work History
People are looking for would-be executives or managers who have experience managing people and increasing revenues. When explaining job titles and company names, it is important to spell out key victories or accomplishments as well as explaining duties and experiences. Corporations and businesses want to invest in employees who have experience with a wide array of responsibilities and have proven success records.
Educational Background
Companies are interested in where applicants attended school as well as their degrees. Additionally, it is important to briefly mention any academic honors or awards granted during this time period.
Professional Memberships
It is important to include professional membership information in an executive resume. These groups should be related to the position one is applying for, should highlight one’s leadership skills and should be impressive in the business world. Additionally, it is important to point out if the applicant holds any offices or has been recognized by such professional organizations.
Easy to Read
Executive resumes are informative and detailed but are also easy-to-read. The layout of this piece should include clear headers, subtle use of bolding and italics and should make it easy to glance through the document to pinpoint key experiences and skills. Active verbs are important. Every word should count. Lastly, it is important that contact information is easy to find and read. Normally, this comes at the top of the resume, in the header section.
