Throughout this series, we have repeated a simple mantra – get anything and everything (class visits, coursework, GMAT exams, etc.) done now so that you can focus on your applications come July. Your resume can be constructed now, and the final update to your most recent position can be added in October during the latest stages of the process. Aside from the obvious timing benefits in completing your resume now, you will also benefit from reflecting on your accomplishments, a process that will help you brainstorm essay ideas and enable you to remind your recommenders of your major achievements.
As you strive to write a standout resume, you should think to yourself, “What are my accomplishments?” not “What were my responsibilities?” By rehashing your responsibilities, you will essentially be offering only the most basic information about your position. Many candidates choose to write something like: “Responsible for managing $10M media campaign, supervising staff of five junior brand managers, monitoring daily sales volumes and ensuring consistent supply of product from five production facilities in three countries.” The problem with simply stating responsibilities is that the reader has no understanding of whether this individual was effective in his/her position. Was the media campaign successful? Did the staff of five progress? Did sales volumes increase? Did the supply of products reach its destination?
By breaking each of these bullet points down, elaborating on each task and then showing the clear consequences of these actions, the reader learns of decisive maneuvers and, more importantly, results.
Instead of “responsible for managing $10M media campaign,” offer more details on the task:
• Initiated $10M television/internet “Island Vacation” promotion to introduce new Shine brand detergent…
Then, offer clear results of your efforts_
• …surpassing first-year sales targets in three months.
By following an action/results formula, you will offer the reader a consistent record of success and show that you have excelled in your work, which is, of course, your goal for your resume.
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