Job hunters can’t afford to be humble on a resume

For years, my general advice on resume writing has remained the same. I always urge job hunters to create strong, attention-grabbing documents that showcase their accomplishments. I suggest using powerful verbs, quantifiable data (dollar amounts, percentages or other tangible information) and a fresh format that stands out for its clarity and professionalism.

This week, I heard from two job seekers who were hesitant to take words at face value. One of them said, "I don't want employers to think I'm boasting." The other agreed, "It seems like all people do these days is blow their own horns."

People who are self-effacing or shy by nature often have a hard time writing job-winning resumes. Some of them don't recognize their own positive qualities. Others recognize their talents; they'll even talk about their recent achievements if you ask. But if you don't broach the subject directly, these modest job hunters won't say a thing about their top-notch contributions. They don't want to brag.

It's true that the world could use a bit more humility. Too many people pat themselves on the back when they should be focused on other things -- like making their companies more productive, efficient places to work. But if you really want to land a new position in a crowded job market, one thing is for certain: You have to show employers what you bring to the table.

How do you highlight your strengths without coming across as smug or conceited? Easy. Tell the truth. Avoid hyperbole. Replace sweeping adjectives (like exceptional and outstanding) with actual data from your work history that will give employers something to sink their teeth into.

Let's say that you're a whiz at sales. Throughout your career, you have initiated relationships, negotiated deals and closed profitable accounts. You're aware of your talent in this area, and you feel certain that you will generate significant sales revenue in your next position. But you're a modest person, so you aren't comfortable crooning about your accomplishments.

This situation calls for a bit of courage. If you're serious about securing a job, you have to showcase your specialized skills. Why? Because if employers can't visualize the dollar-sign value you'll bring to the workplace, they probably won't hire you.

You don't need to be overconfident in your presentation. Honesty is the best policy, as they say. Create a resume that draws attention to your contributions using straightforward language and real numbers from your background.

Here's an example: Rather than writing a bullet that states: "Demonstrated superior sales techniques and a gift for developing new accounts," remove flashy words (in this case, superior and gift), and add factual information to support your claim. Like this: "Built relationships that resulted in 5 new accounts and $100K in additional annual revenue." See the difference? There is a huge distinction between bragging and communicating your key selling points to potential employers.

If you are particularly humble or shy, try to step outside of your comfort zone. Not too far. Remember, you're sticking with the facts. No more; no less. And if you still have a difficult time writing about your attributes and achievements, recruit a colleague or hire a professional to write a resume for you. Don't let shyness keep you from your next job.



Contact Eve at Eve.GetaJob@gmail.com.