At Jobscan, we’ve seen resumes evolve. Back in the day, job seekers would put resume objectives at the top of their resume. Objectives focused on what the job seeker was aiming for. But by the 2010s, resume summaries became the norm. These focused on what the job seeker had already done.
There are two reasons why resume summaries became popular:
- The rise of applicant tracking systems (ATS). As ATS technology spread, keywords became more important. Resume summaries were the perfect places to add keywords.
- Shorter attention spans. Hiring managers began scanning resumes more quickly (often in 6-7 seconds). A resume summary section at the top made it easier to convey the candidate’s value.
In this article, I’ll show you how to write a resume summary that’s ATS-compatible. Plus, I’ll provide you with plenty of resume summary examples tailored for any job scenario.
What is a professional resume summary?
A resume summary is a brief statement placed near the top of your resume. It highlights your relevant skills, experience, and achievements. It’s like an elevator pitch—a quick, punchy way to say “Here’s what I can do.”
Why use a resume summary? Because it’s a great way to “optimize your resume with keywords, catch an employer’s attention, and provide career highlights,” says career coach Jazlyn Unbedacht.
Typically, a resume summary is 2-5 sentences long. Your summary should go right under your contact information. If you’re using a resume headline, your summary should follow that.
Here’s an example of what a resume summary looks like and where it should appear:
Never use personal pronouns (e.g., “I,” “me,” “my”) in your resume summary, or anywhere else on your resume. Your resume shows your achievements and skills; it shouldn’t tell your personal story.
When should you use a resume summary?
I recommend using a summary for most situations, but not always. To see if you need a resume summary, follow these guidelines.
- You have relevant experience. Showcase your skills and accomplishments upfront, especially if they align closely with the job.
- You’re changing careers. Highlight transferable skills and explain how your background fits the new role.
- You have special skills or unique qualifications. Spotlight certifications, technical expertise, or other standout qualities right at the top.
- You’re an entry-level candidate. If you don’t have much experience, a resume objective might be better, focusing on your career goals and enthusiasm.
- Your resume already speaks for itself. If your experience and skills are straightforward and clearly aligned with the job, a summary might be redundant.
Simple resume summary examples
These examples show how to highlight your achievements, certifications, and awards. You’ll also see examples of summaries for career changers and recent grads with no experience.
1. Resume summary with measurable accomplishments
I love seeing measurable accomplishments on a resume. I’m not alone. 40% of recruiters say the biggest mistake job seekers make is not measuring their accomplishments.
What’s a measurable accomplishment? It’s an accomplishment that has a number attached to it. For example: “Increased departmental sales by 25% within one year through strategic product placement.”
Measurable accomplishments impress hiring managers because they show how well you did your job. They prove your value and indicate the kind of positive impact you could have in your new role.
Experienced Digital Marketing Specialist with 5+ years in the tech industry, specializing in SEO, SEM, and content marketing. Achieved a 40% increase in organic traffic for a SaaS company in 6 months, significantly boosting subscription sales. Skilled in using analytics to enhance marketing strategies and ROI.
Having trouble coming up with measurable accomplishments? Here are some ideas to consider:
- Sales and revenue: Dollar amount or percentage growth.
- Cost savings: Amount or percentage of costs saved.
- Productivity: Time saved or percentage increase in output.
- Project management: Projects completed ahead of schedule or under budget.
- Customer satisfaction: Improvement in satisfaction ratings or retention rates.
- Marketing metrics: Audience growth, engagement rates, or campaign performance.
- Product development: Number of products launched or users acquired.
- Quality assurance: Percentage decrease in errors or audits passed.
Read more: 80+ Resume Accomplishments Examples to Show Your Value
2. Resume summary with certificates and licenses
If the job you’re applying for requires a license, put it in your resume summary. The same goes for important certifications. You want hiring managers to know immediately that you’re qualified for the role.
You can go into more detail about your licenses and certifications in your education section.
Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with a valid New York State Professional Engineer (PE) license and over 5 years of experience in civil engineering projects. Proven track record in leading cross-functional teams to exceed project delivery expectations on time and within budget.
Read more: 75+ Free Certifications to Help You Land Your Dream Job
3. Resume summary with honors and awards
I’m always impressed with job candidates who have honors or awards. Highlight them front and center in your resume summary. (Just make sure they’re relevant to the role).
You should also create an “Honors and Awards” section on your resume, where you can go into more detail.
Award-winning Graphic Designer with over 7 years of experience in creating compelling visuals for leading brands. Recognized with the 2022 American Design Award for innovative digital advertising campaigns. Expert in Adobe Creative Suite, with a proven ability to deliver designs that engage and convert.
I always tell job seekers to write their resume summary AFTER they’ve completed the rest of their resume. Then they’ll know exactly which skills and accomplishments to include.
4. Resume summary for changing careers
If you’re looking to change careers, a resume summary is the perfect place to explain what your new goals are. Be sure to include the job title of the position you’re applying for. This will help your resume pass through an ATS.
You also want to tell prospective employers how your skills and experience can help you succeed in the new role.
Project Manager transitioning to Digital Marketing Manager. Bringing 8 years of experience in project management with transferable skills in team leadership, strategic planning, and analytics. Proven success in completing projects 20% under budget and improving team efficiency by 35%. Eager to apply strategic insight and problem-solving abilities in digital marketing campaigns.
Read more: How to Change Careers in 5 Steps
5. Resume summary for recent grads with no experience
This one can be a little tricky. If you have zero experience, then you might consider using a resume objective.
Otherwise, consider using a resume summary. Focus on your academic achievements, relevant coursework, internships, or extracurricular activities that align with the job.
Motivated Business Administration graduate with strong organizational and communication skills developed through leadership roles in student government. Completed coursework in marketing, finance, and project management, with a focus on improving team efficiency. Eager to apply analytical and problem-solving abilities in a dynamic corporate environment.
Read more: How to Write a Beginner Resume Summary with No Experience
How to write a resume summary
Generally speaking, all effective resume summaries present the same information. Here are the basic steps:
1. Include the job title from the description
Always start your resume summary with the job title from the listing. It shows employers you’re a perfect fit and helps your resume pass ATS scans. If you’re transitioning careers or don’t have that exact title, use phrases like “transitioning to” or “aspiring” followed by the job title.
“Aspiring Data Analyst with a strong foundation in statistics and data visualization, eager to apply analytical skills to business challenges.”
2. Add years of experience
Next, add your years of experience. This helps employers gauge your level of expertise quickly. If you’re an entry-level candidate or a career changer, focus on transferable experiences or relevant training.
“Bringing 5+ years of experience in leading cross-functional teams.”
3. Include measurable accomplishments
I mentioned the importance of measurable accomplishments earlier (see the first resume example). Employers aren’t impressed by a list of duties. They want to see what you’ve accomplished. Try to include one measurable accomplishment in your summary.
Example: “Boosted online engagement by 30% and drove a 20% increase in sales.”
4. List key skills
This is your chance to showcase the skills that are most relevant to the job. Focus on hard skills because you need to show that you’re qualified. This will also help your resume pass ATS scans.
“Skilled in SEO, content marketing, and data analytics.”
5. Use action verbs
Start your sentences with strong action verbs. Don’t ever say “responsible for.” It’s old-fashioned. Instead use verbs like “developed,” “implemented,” or “optimized.” These verbs pack a punch and immediately show the value you bring.
“Optimized team workflows, resulting in a 15% boost in productivity.”
6. Conclude with your unique value proposition
Your “unique value proposition” is the standout quality that makes you the ideal candidate. Maybe it’s your knack for streamlining processes, your ability to lead high-performing teams, or your talent for turning data into actionable insights. Think of it as the “why you?” moment.
“Delivering projects ahead of schedule and under budget.”
Resume summary formula
Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow formula that incorporates all of the above steps:
[Job Title] with [Years of Experience] years of experience. Proven track record in [Top Achievement 1] and [Top Achievement 2]. Skilled in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. Known for [Unique Value or Strength].
Digital Marketing Specialist with 5+ years of experience. Proven track record in increasing online engagement by 30% and boosting conversion rates by 15%. Skilled in SEO, content marketing, and social media strategy. Known for exceptional analytical skills and creative problem-solving.
Tailor your resume summary to the job
The #1 mistake job seekers make is using the same resume, over and over again. This allows them to apply for tons of jobs quickly, but it’s a waste of time. Here’s why:
When you submit your resume it goes into a computer database called an applicant tracking system, or ATS. Hiring managers search through the database by typing keywords (which are usually skills) into the ATS search bar. If your resume doesn’t include those keywords it won’t be found.
But every job is different. This means you might be highly qualified for a job, but because you didn’t use the exact same keywords hiring managers are looking for, your resume might never be found.
To avoid this, study the description of the job you’re applying to. Identify the important keywords. Then incorporate those keywords into your resume. (Your resume summary is a great place to incorporate keywords).
For example, if you were applying to the following accounting job, you’d probably want to include some of the underlined keywords on your resume:
If you were writing a resume summary for this accounting job, it might look something like this:
You’ll dramatically increase your chances of getting an interview if you tailor each resume. But it takes time and effort. It’s sometimes hard to know which keywords are the most important.
Do not lie on your resume! If you don’t have the skills listed in the job description, don’t add them to your resume. Tailoring your resume isn’t about tricking the hiring manager. It’s about optimizing your resume so it can be found.
As you build your resume in the resume builder tool, you can click on the magic wand to “Generate Summary.” Using information from your work experience, skills, education, and certifications, the tool will write a personalized summary to beat writer’s block.
Try the resume summary generator for free and make your resume writing easier.
Resume summary do’s and don’ts
Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to guide you when you write your resume summary.
- Tailor to the job: Use specific keywords from the job description to optimize for ATS and show relevance.
- Highlight achievements: Include measurable accomplishments that demonstrate your impact.
- Keep it concise: Limit your summary to 2-5 sentences, focusing on the most compelling details.
- Use active language: Start sentences with strong action verbs to make your accomplishments stand out.
- Focus on value: Emphasize how your skills and experience will benefit the employer.
- Use generic phrases: Avoid overused terms like “hard worker” or “team player” without context.
- Be vague: Specificity is key—general statements won’t capture a hiring manager’s attention.
- Include irrelevant details: Only mention skills and experiences that are relevant to the job.
- Use personal pronouns: Skip “I,” “me,” and “my”—your resume should be professional and to the point.
- Make it too long: A lengthy summary risks losing the reader’s interest. Aim for a quick, impactful pitch.
86 resume summaries for every profession
Use the following professional resume summary examples to inspire and guide you as you create your own. No matter what field you’re in, you should be able to find a summary that resonates with your career goals and experiences.
Each example is crafted to showcase key professional skills, achievements, and the unique value you bring to potential employers.
Accounting resume summary examples
Highly analytical and detail-oriented accounting professional with over 5 years of experience in financial reporting, tax preparation, and audit support. Proven ability to improve financial processes, enhance accuracy, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Skilled in leveraging accounting software and analytical tools to provide key financial insights and support business decisions.
See the full accounting resume example here.
Dedicated Accountant with 4 years of experience in managing accurate financial records, budgeting, and tax filing for diverse clients. Demonstrated expertise in streamlining financial processes, reducing errors by 20%, and enhancing operational efficiency. Proficient in GAAP, financial analysis, and software such as QuickBooks and SAP.
See the full accountant resume example here.
Motivated Staff Accountant with 3 years of comprehensive experience in financial statement preparation, general ledger management, and variance analysis. Successfully contributed to financial audits, resulting in a 15% reduction in discrepancies. Adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve financial accuracy and organizational goals.
See the full staff accountant resume example here.
Administrative and office support resume summary examples
Versatile Administrative Professional with over 6 years of experience in supporting daily operational and administrative functions across various industries. Known for improving organizational processes, enhancing workflow efficiency by 25%, and maintaining utmost confidentiality. Expert in managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and implementing office management systems that support business objectives.
See the full administrative resume example here.
Dynamic Executive Assistant with 5 years of experience providing high-level support to C-suite executives. Specializes in managing complex calendars, coordinating international travel, and facilitating effective communication between executive offices and internal departments. Increased office efficiency by 30% through the implementation of new organizational procedures. Exceptional problem-solving skills and dedication to confidentiality.
See the full executive assistant resume example here.
Experienced Office Administrator with a strong track record in managing office operations, financial bookkeeping, and HR duties within fast-paced environments. Implemented an inventory management system that reduced supply costs by 20%. Skilled in streamlining administrative processes, enhancing productivity, and fostering a positive work environment through excellent interpersonal and team management abilities.
See the full office administrator resume example here.
Proactive Office Assistant with 3 years of experience in supporting office administration, enhancing organizational efficiency, and providing exceptional customer service. Played a key role in reorganizing the filing system, leading to a 40% improvement in document retrieval times. Adept at managing multiple priorities with a keen attention to detail and a strong work ethic.
See the full office assistant resume example here.
Experienced Operations Manager with 7 years in streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency, achieving a 20% improvement in productivity. Expert in supply chain management, team leadership, and lean techniques. Proven track record in driving operational excellence and profitability.
See the full operations manager resume example here.
Experienced Office Manager with 8 years of expertise in optimizing operations and reducing costs by 30%. Skilled in team leadership, budget management, and improving office efficiency. Committed to supporting business goals with meticulous organization.
See the full office manager resume example here.
Organized Personal Assistant with 5 years of experience supporting C-level executives. Expert in managing schedules, coordinating travel, and handling confidential tasks. Successfully organized a major international conference, showcasing exceptional event planning skills.
See the full personal assistant resume example here.
Efficient Receptionist known for enhancing customer experiences through prompt service and a positive attitude. Managed a busy front desk with over 50 daily visitors and a 95% satisfaction rate. Excelled in multitasking and problem-solving to support office needs.
See the full receptionist resume example here.
Dedicated Secretary with 4+ years in high-demand environments, improving office workflows and document management. Implemented a new filing system that increased retrieval efficiency by 40%. Adept at scheduling, minute-taking, and providing comprehensive administrative support.
See the full secretary resume example here.
Proactive Administrative Assistant with 3 years of experience in fast-paced offices. Streamlined administrative processes, resulting in a 20% increase in efficiency. Skilled in data management, scheduling, and supporting team logistics with a keen eye for detail.
See the full administrative assistant resume example here.
Business and analysis resume summary examples
Detail-oriented Business Data Analyst with 4 years of experience in translating complex data into actionable business insights. Led a data analysis project that increased revenue by 15% through targeted marketing strategies. Expert in statistical analysis, data visualization, and making data-driven recommendations.
See the full business data analyst resume example here.
Strategic Business Analyst with over 5 years of experience in optimizing business processes and improving profitability. Successfully implemented a new CRM system, increasing customer retention by 20%. Skilled in requirements analysis, project management, and stakeholder communication.
See the full business analyst resume example here.
Analytical Data Analyst with 3 years of experience in interpreting and analyzing data to drive successful business solutions. Developed a dashboard that reduced report generation time by 30%. Proficient in SQL, Python, and data visualization tools.
See the full data analyst resume example here.
Innovative Data Engineer with 4+ years of experience in designing and building scalable data pipelines. Enhanced data processing speed by 40% through the implementation of efficient ETL processes. Skilled in big data technologies, database management, and cloud computing platforms.
See the full data engineer resume example here.
Technology and engineering resume summary examples
Skilled Engineer with 5 years of experience in designing, developing, and implementing innovative solutions across various engineering disciplines. Demonstrated success in project management, leading to a 15% reduction in project timelines and a 10% decrease in costs. Proficient in the latest engineering software, analytical problem-solving, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet project specifications and deadlines.
See the full engineering resume example here.
Innovative Computer Science Engineer with 5 years of experience in developing robust software solutions. Led a team to develop an app that received 100,000+ downloads within the first month. Specializes in algorithm optimization and system security.
See the full computer science and engineering resume example here.
Creative Android Developer with 3 years of experience in building user-centric mobile applications. Increased user engagement by 40% through intuitive app redesigns. Proficient in Kotlin, Java, and Android SDK.
See the full Android developer resume example here.
Detail-oriented Front-End Developer with 4 years of experience in creating responsive and visually appealing websites. Improved website speed by 33% for a major e-commerce platform. Expert in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React.
See the full front-end developer resume example here.
Versatile Full Stack Developer with 5+ years of experience in developing scalable web applications. Led a project that resulted in a 50% increase in website traffic through performance enhancements. Skilled in both front-end and back-end technologies.
See the full stack developer resume example here.
Experienced Java Developer with 6 years of experience in building high-performance applications. Developed a Java-based system that reduced processing time by 25%. Expert in Spring Framework and microservices architecture.
See the full Java developer resume example here.
Dedicated Network Engineer with 4 years of experience in designing and maintaining secure network infrastructures. Achieved a 99.9% network uptime rate by implementing robust monitoring strategies. Skilled in Cisco systems and network security protocols.
See the full network engineer resume example here.
Skilled Programmer with 3 years of experience across multiple programming languages. Automated internal processes, resulting in a 20% increase in operational efficiency. Proficient in C++, Python, and JavaScript.
See the full programmer resume example here.
Dynamic Python Developer with 4 years of experience in web development and data analysis projects. Enhanced data processing speeds by 35% through optimized Python scripts. Expert in Django and Flask frameworks.
See the full Python developer resume example here.
Innovative Software Developer with 5 years of experience in developing scalable software solutions. Contributed to a project that increased company revenue by 18% through software optimization. Proficient in multiple programming languages and agile methodologies.
See the full software developer resume example here.
Detail-oriented SQL Developer with 4 years of experience in database design and optimization. Improved data retrieval times by 40% through advanced query optimizations. Skilled in SQL Server, MySQL, and database administration.
See the full SQL developer resume example here.
Creative Web Developer with 3 years of experience in designing and implementing user-friendly websites. Increased conversion rates by 30% through A/B testing and website redesign. Proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP.
See the full web developer resume example here.
Results-driven Civil Engineer with 5 years of experience in infrastructure project management. Led a bridge construction project completed 3 months ahead of schedule and 10% under budget. Specializes in structural design and project coordination.
See the full civil engineer resume example here.
Innovative Electrical Engineer with 6 years of experience in designing and implementing electrical systems. Increased system efficiency by 20% through the development of a new circuit design. Expert in power systems and electronic hardware development.
See the full electrical engineer resume example here.
Eager Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer with a strong foundation in mechanical design and analysis. Internship project contributed to a 5% increase in the efficiency of a manufacturing process. Proficient in CAD software and thermodynamics.
See the full entry-level mechanical engineering resume example here.
Experienced Mechanical Engineer with 7 years of experience in product design and optimization. Led a team that improved product durability by 30%, significantly reducing warranty claims. Expert in 3D modeling, finite element analysis, and materials science.
See the full mechanical engineering resume example here.
Customer service resume summary examples
Dedicated Customer Service professional with over 4 years of experience in enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Implemented a feedback system that increased customer satisfaction scores by 25%. Known for exceptional communication skills and the ability to resolve issues efficiently.
See the full customer service resume example here.
Results-oriented Customer Service Manager with 6 years of experience leading service teams to exceed customer expectations. Increased team efficiency by 30% through targeted training and development. Expert in strategic planning, team leadership, and customer relationship management.
See the full customer service manager resume example here.
Committed Customer Service Representative with 3 years of experience in fast-paced environments, achieving a 95% customer satisfaction rate. Reduced call handling time by 20% without compromising service quality. Skilled in problem-solving, communication, and providing high-quality customer support.
See the full customer service representative resume example here.
Education resume summary examples
Passionate Educator with over 5 years of comprehensive experience in developing curriculum and teaching strategies that foster student engagement and learning. Successfully raised student literacy rates by 20% through innovative teaching techniques. Committed to creating an inclusive and stimulating learning environment.
See the full education resume example here.
Creative Elementary Teacher with 4 years of experience in fostering a positive and engaging learning environment for diverse classrooms. Implemented a differentiated learning approach that increased student math scores by 15%. Specializes in creating interactive and inclusive lesson plans.
See the full elementary teacher resume example here.
Dedicated High School Teacher with 6 years of experience in delivering high-quality education in science subjects. Led a student science fair project that won 1st place in a state competition. Known for inspiring students through hands-on learning and critical thinking exercises.
See the full high school teacher resume example here.
Compassionate Preschool Teacher with 3 years of experience in early childhood education. Developed a language immersion program that improved children’s language skills by 30%. Specializes in creating a safe and nurturing learning environment for young learners.
See the full preschool teacher resume example here.
Visionary School Principal with 10 years of leadership experience in improving school performance. Increased school graduation rate by 25% through strategic initiatives and community partnerships. Expert in educational leadership, staff development, and curriculum planning.
See the full principal resume example here.
Analytical Research Assistant with 2 years of experience supporting academic research projects. Contributed to a research study that was published in a top-tier academic journal. Skilled in data collection, analysis, and academic writing.
See the full research assistant resume example here.
Experienced Research Associate with 5 years in academic and field research, specializing in environmental studies. Led a research project that contributed to a 10% reduction in local water pollution levels. Proficient in statistical analysis, project management, and grant writing.
See the full research associate resume example here.
Finance resume summary examples
Detail-oriented Finance Professional with 5 years of experience in financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning. Successfully managed a $5M budget, reducing costs by 15% while optimizing resource allocation. Known for strong analytical skills and precision in financial forecasting.
See the full finance resume example here.
Reliable Bank Teller with 3 years of experience in fast-paced financial environments, maintaining a record of 100% accuracy in transaction processing. Implemented a customer service initiative that increased customer satisfaction ratings by 20%. Skilled in cash handling, customer service, and financial software.
See the full bank teller resume example here.
Trustworthy Financial Advisor with over 6 years of experience in helping clients achieve their financial goals, increasing client portfolio returns by an average of 10% annually. Expert in retirement planning, investment strategies, and risk management. Committed to providing personalized financial guidance.
See the full financial advisor resume example here.
Analytical Financial Analyst with 4 years of experience in financial modeling, variance analysis, and forecasting. Played a key role in a team that achieved a 5% reduction in operating costs through strategic financial planning. Proficient in Excel, SQL, and financial reporting tools.
See the full financial analyst resume example here.
Healthcare resume summary examples
Compassionate Healthcare Professional with over 5 years of experience in providing top-notch care in various medical settings. Improved patient satisfaction scores by 30% through dedicated patient advocacy and care coordination. Skilled in patient assessment, treatment planning, and healthcare administration.
See the full healthcare resume example here.
Efficient Medical Assistant with 3 years of experience in fast-paced clinic environments, supporting patient care and administrative duties. Increased clinic efficiency by 20% through the implementation of an improved patient scheduling system. Proficient in clinical procedures, patient education, and electronic health records.
See the full medical assistant resume example here.
Friendly Medical Receptionist with 4 years of experience in managing front-office duties and patient flow for busy healthcare facilities. Enhanced patient check-in process, reducing wait times by 25%. Known for excellent communication skills and a strong ability to manage patient inquiries and appointments.
See the full medical receptionist resume example here.
Detail-oriented Phlebotomist with 2 years of experience in performing venipuncture with a 98% first-attempt success rate. Contributed to a 15% increase in laboratory efficiency by improving sample processing times. Committed to patient comfort and accuracy in specimen collection.
See the full phlebotomist resume example here.
Dedicated Nurse with 6 years of experience in providing comprehensive patient care in hospital settings. Reduced readmission rates by 20% through effective discharge planning and patient education. Specializes in acute care, patient advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
See the full nursing resume example here.
Experienced Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of practice in primary care, delivering patient-centered solutions that improved patient health outcomes by 40%. Expert in diagnosing and managing chronic conditions, health promotion, and disease prevention.
See the full nurse practitioner resume example here.
Compassionate Registered Nurse with 4 years of experience in critical care units, achieving a patient satisfaction score of 95%. Led a quality improvement project that decreased medication administration errors by 50%. Skilled in emergency care, patient education, and team leadership.
See the full registered nurse resume example here.
Human resources resume summary examples
Strategic Human Resources Professional with 6 years of experience in developing and implementing HR strategies that support business objectives. Enhanced employee retention by 25% through targeted development programs and benefits optimization. Expert in talent management, employee relations, and compliance.
See the full human resources resume example here.
Motivated Entry-Level Human Resources Graduate with internships and academic projects demonstrating strong foundations in HR principles and practices. Led a university project that improved student engagement in career services by 30%. Eager to apply knowledge in talent acquisition, employee onboarding, and HR analytics.
See the full entry-level human resources resume example here.
Versatile HR Generalist with 4 years of experience managing a wide range of HR functions, including recruitment, performance management, and employee relations. Improved overall employee satisfaction by 20% through the implementation of a comprehensive wellness program. Skilled in HR policy development and workforce planning.
See the full HR generalist resume example here.
Dynamic Recruiter with 5 years of experience in sourcing and attracting top talent, filling over 100 positions annually in a competitive market. Increased hiring efficiency by 35% through the development of a streamlined recruitment process. Proficient in candidate screening, interview techniques, and employer branding.
See the full recruiter resume example here.
Legal resume summary examples
Skilled Attorney with 7 years of experience in [specialization, e.g., family law], achieving a 90% success rate across 200+ cases. Streamlined case preparation processes, reducing time to trial by 30%. Expert in negotiation, litigation, and client advocacy, committed to delivering exceptional legal outcomes.
See the full attorney resume example here.
Detail-oriented Legal Assistant with 3 years of experience supporting attorneys in high-volume law firms. Enhanced document preparation efficiency by 25% through improved organization and workflow management. Skilled in legal research, document drafting, and case management software.
See the full legal assistant resume example here.
Experienced Legal Secretary with over 5 years of expertise in managing complex legal administrative tasks. Streamlined office operations, reducing paperwork processing time by 20%. Known for exceptional organizational skills, fast typing speed, and maintaining confidentiality in sensitive matters.
See the full legal secretary resume example here.
Dedicated Paralegal with 4 years of experience in litigation and corporate law, contributing to a 15% increase in case efficiency. Specializes in legal research, drafting legal documents, and case preparation. Proven track record of managing multiple cases simultaneously with high attention to detail and accuracy.
See the full paralegal resume example here.
Marketing resume summary examples
Dynamic Marketing Professional with 5 years of experience in developing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies that increased brand awareness by 40%. Expert in market analysis, campaign management, and cross-functional team leadership. Proven ability to drive market growth and enhance brand positioning.
See the full marketing resume example here.
Results-driven Account Manager with 4 years of experience in managing client portfolios and strengthening relationships, resulting in a 25% increase in client retention. Skilled in negotiation, strategic planning, and customer service excellence. Committed to maximizing client satisfaction and revenue growth.
See the full account manager resume example here.
Innovative Digital Marketing Specialist with 3 years of experience in driving online presence and engagement through targeted digital campaigns. Achieved a 50% increase in social media traffic and a 20% conversion rate improvement. Proficient in SEO, PPC, and content marketing strategies.
See the full digital marketing resume example here.
Creative Marketing Specialist with 4 years of experience in developing and implementing effective marketing strategies, leading to a 30% increase in leads. Expertise in market research, brand management, and event planning. Known for exceptional analytical skills and creative solutions.
See the full marketing specialist resume example here.
Strategic Product Manager with 5 years of experience in leading product development cycles and launching products that increased market share by 15%. Specializes in user experience, competitive analysis, and product lifecycle management. Adept at working with cross-functional teams to achieve product goals.
See the full product manager resume example here.
Engaging Social Media Manager with 3 years of experience in growing online communities and enhancing brand presence, resulting in a 40% increase in follower engagement. Expert in content creation, social media analytics, and influencer partnerships. Known for innovative social media strategies and a deep understanding of digital trends.
See the full social media manager resume example here.
Pharmaceutical resume summary examples
Dedicated Pharmaceutical Professional with 6 years of experience in medication management, patient counseling, and clinical research. Led a team in a successful clinical trial that resulted in a 20% improvement in patient outcomes for a new medication. Committed to advancing pharmaceutical care and patient health.
See the full pharmaceutical resume example here.
Experienced Clinical Pharmacist with 5 years of expertise in acute care settings, optimizing medication therapy to improve patient outcomes by 25%. Specializes in therapeutic drug monitoring, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based practice. Recognized for exceptional patient education and advocacy.
See the full clinical pharmacist resume example here.
Detail-oriented Pharmacist with 7 years of experience in retail and hospital pharmacies, increasing prescription volume by 30% through efficient service and patient care. Expert in pharmacology, drug interactions, and regulatory compliance. Dedicated to providing high-quality pharmaceutical care and support.
See the full pharmacist resume example here.
Skilled Pharmacy Technician with 3 years of experience in fast-paced pharmacy settings, supporting pharmacists in medication dispensing and inventory management. Contributed to a 20% reduction in medication errors through meticulous attention to detail and protocol adherence. Proficient in pharmacy software and customer service.
See the full pharmacy technician resume example here.
Project management resume summary examples
Strategic Project Management Professional with over 5 years of experience in leading projects from conception to completion across various industries. Successfully delivered projects 20% under budget and ahead of schedule, enhancing operational efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction. Expert in aligning project objectives with business goals, risk management, and team leadership.
See the full project management resume example here.
Innovative Agile Project Manager with 4 years of experience in facilitating agile practices and improving team performance in fast-paced environments. Achieved a 30% increase in project delivery speed by optimizing agile methodologies and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Skilled in Scrum, Kanban, and cross-functional team leadership.
See the full Agile project management resume example here.
Experienced Construction Project Manager with a track record of completing multi-million dollar projects on time and within budget, resulting in a 15% increase in profitability. Specializes in contract negotiations, resource allocation, and quality control, with a strong focus on safety and compliance.
See the full construction project manager resume example here.
Dedicated IT Project Manager with 6 years of experience in managing complex IT projects, including software development and system implementations. Delivered a company-wide ERP system upgrade, enhancing operational efficiency by 25%. Expert in project lifecycle management, stakeholder communication, and IT infrastructure.
See the full IT project manager resume example here.
Organized Project Coordinator with 3 years of experience supporting project planning and execution in dynamic project environments. Contributed to improving project tracking mechanisms, reducing project delays by 20%. Adept at resource scheduling, documentation, and facilitating effective communication between project teams and stakeholders.
See the full project coordinator resume example here.
Versatile Project Manager with 5 years of experience in delivering projects on time and under budget across various sectors. Led a portfolio of projects that resulted in a 40% improvement in productivity for clients. Expert in developing project scopes, coordinating teams, and managing stakeholder expectations.
See the full project manager resume example here.
Certified Scrum Master with 4 years of experience in guiding teams on Scrum practices and enhancing team agility. Improved team velocity by 35% through effective backlog management and sprint planning. Passionate about fostering a collaborative environment and resolving impediments to team progress.
See the full scrum master resume example here.
Seasoned Senior Project Manager with over 8 years of experience in overseeing large-scale projects from inception to completion. Achieved a 95% project success rate by implementing best practices in project management and leadership. Specializes in strategic planning, risk management, and enhancing team productivity through expert guidance and mentorship.
See the full senior project manager resume example here.
Sales resume summary examples
Dynamic Sales Professional with 4 years of experience in driving revenue growth and exceeding sales targets in competitive markets. Achieved a record 40% year-over-year sales increase through strategic client engagement and innovative sales tactics. Expert in relationship building, market analysis, and negotiation, with a proven track record of closing deals and fostering customer loyalty.
See the full sales resume example here.
Results-oriented Sales Manager with 6 years of leadership experience, overseeing sales teams to achieve a 50% increase in annual sales revenue. Specializes in developing sales strategies, coaching sales professionals, and penetrating new markets. Demonstrated ability to lead by example, motivate teams, and drive significant revenue growth through effective management and innovative sales initiatives.
See the full sales manager resume example here.
Writing and content creation resume summary examples
Creative Writer with 5 years of experience across various genres and mediums, including digital content, fiction, and technical writing. Successfully increased web traffic by 40% for several online platforms through SEO-optimized articles and engaging content. Known for a versatile writing style, meticulous research skills, and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
See the full writer resume example here.
Dynamic Copywriter with 4 years of experience in creating compelling marketing and advertising copy that increased customer engagement by 30%. Specializes in brand storytelling, product descriptions, and targeted email campaigns. Proven track record of boosting brand awareness and conversion rates through creative and persuasive copy.
See the full copywriter resume example here.
Experienced Grant Writer with a strong history of securing funding for nonprofit organizations, achieving a success rate of over 80% on submitted proposals. Specializes in researching grant opportunities, writing persuasive proposals, and managing grant submissions. Contributed to securing over $3 million in funding for various projects and initiatives.
See the full grant writer resume example here.
Detail-oriented Technical Writer with 6 years of experience in creating clear and concise technical documentation, user manuals, and help guides across various industries. Successfully simplified complex technical information, resulting in a 50% reduction in customer support queries. Skilled in collaborating with technical teams to ensure accuracy and usability of documentation, with a strong focus on enhancing user experience and product adoption.
See the full technical writer resume example here.
Resume summary vs. resume objective
Resume summaries and resume objectives are placed just beneath your name, contact information, and resume headline. Both are short snapshots—one to five sentences—but they have a unique purpose.
A resume summary, as you see in the examples above, focuses on what you bring to the table as a professional. It takes an assertive, results-oriented tone to show off your key qualifications and skills.
In contrast, a resume objective uses an aspirational and forward-looking tone that focuses on your goals with enthusiasm. It emphasizes what you want to achieve professionally and doesn’t place as much emphasis on the organization reading the resume.
Some experts emphasize opting for a resume summary over a resume objective. Ultimately, focusing on the needs of the company you’re applying to can help hiring teams visualize your impact and imagine how you can solve their unique problems.
But it doesn’t have to be either/or—you can merge them together.
For instance: “Creative and goal-oriented marketing professional with a strong background in content strategy. Seeking to leverage 3+ years of experience to drive engagement and brand growth in a dynamic role.”
This hybrid approach combines achievements with future aspirations, making it versatile for many professionals.
Key takeaways
- Resume summaries are concise, impactful statements that highlight your top skills, experience, and achievements.
- They’ve replaced outdated objective statements, offering a faster way to capture a hiring manager’s attention.
- ATS optimization is crucial—resume summaries provide an ideal space to incorporate job-specific keywords.
- A well-crafted summary is 2-5 sentences long and positioned near the top of your resume, right below your contact information or headline.
- Tailor your resume summary for every job application to improve your chances of getting noticed.
- Summaries are especially valuable for career changers, experienced professionals, and those with unique skills or certifications.
- If you’re a recent grad or entry-level candidate, consider using a resume objective to focus on your goals and enthusiasm.
- Including measurable accomplishments, awards, and certifications in your summary can significantly boost its impact.
FAQs
The resume summary is a brief paragraph that showcases who you are, how you can help the employer with your skills, work experience, and expertise, and why you are the best person for the job.
A resume summary should be written in the first person, but with the pronouns (e.g., “I,” “me,” “my”) omitted. This style keeps the resume professional and focused on achievements and skills rather than reading like a personal narrative.
For example, instead of saying “I am a skilled project manager,” you would write “Skilled project manager.” This approach maintains a professional tone while making the summary more concise and impactful.
The resume summary comes directly after your name and contact information. If you’re using a resume headline, the summary should come after that.
No. A resume summary should be tailored for each job application. If you want to apply to five different job applications, then you need to prepare five different resumes tailored to a specific job posting.
A resume summary can be two to four sentences long—don’t exceed five sentences. It can be written as a short paragraph or listed in bullet points.
A summary of qualifications is the same as a resume summary. It emphasizes key accomplishments, qualifications, and certifications while presenting you as the best candidate for the job.
A resume summary statement is often referred to by other names, including:
• Career summary
• Career synopsis
• Personal statement
• Professional summary
• Summary of experience
• Summary of qualifications
• Qualifications summary
• Competencies
A good summary for an entry-level resume should focus on educational achievements, relevant coursework, soft transferable skills, and any related internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.
If you’re a new grad, include relevant coursework or academic achievements that highlight your skills. Emphasize that you’re dedicated to learning and growth to show that you’re a teachable candidate.
Starting a resume summary effectively means grabbing attention fast. You can lead with your experience, skills, or top achievements to immediately show you’re the right fit. Use exciting action verbs to introduce your skills and experience.
Use the following formula for the greatest impact:
[Adjective/character trait] [job title] [your experience]. Proven track record in [Top Achievement 1] and [Top Achievement 2]. Skilled in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. Known for [Unique Value or Strength].
When crafting a resume summary with no experience, focus on your educational achievements, relevant coursework, and transferable skills from activities like volunteering. Emphasize your eagerness to learn, dedication, and how your background aligns with the position you’re seeking.
If you’re building your resume from scratch, try Jobscan’s free resume builder. There are no hidden costs and it allows you to build an ATS-compatible AI resume in no time!
