Whats the greatest story you’ve written?
It should be your resume!
Crafting the Greatest Story Ever Told (About You!)"
Getting a job in this current climate is tough. A mixture of luck and determination with a pinch of who you know. One of the things you can control is your resume.
It’s become harder than ever to get your resume to stand out and make an impact. I’ve amended my resume more times that I care to mention, but I was told recently to make sure it tells a good story. Seems like quality advice especially for a storyteller.
Quote ‘When facts fail to convince, storytelling may do the trick’.
Think about the last time a story pulled you in - maybe it was a page-turner novel, a binge-worthy series, or a thought altering podcast. Stories captivate us, resonate with us, and, most importantly, they stick. So, it makes sense that the most compelling story you could ever tell is... your resume.
Makes sense right? A well-crafted story can turn your resume into a vibrant and captivating snapshot of your professional journey, offering hiring managers not just a rundown of your past, but a compelling preview of what you’re capable of.
Quote ‘We are all storytellers. We live in a network of stories. There isnt a stronger connection between people than storytelling.’
Why This Story Matters
Your resume is more than a list of jobs and skills; it's a story of who you are, where you've been, and where you're going. It's a chance to reflect on your journey, celebrate your successes, and set the stage for your next big chapter. So, take the time to craft it thoughtfully, with the same care and attention to detail that a writer would give to their best work.
Let's dive into how to make your resume the blockbuster hit of your career.
Introduce the hero: Every epic tale has a hero, and in this story, it’s you! You've battled challenges, made game-changing decisions, and evolved along the way. Your resume is your chance to narrate this adventure, spotlighting the hurdles you've jumped and the victories that make you do a little happy dance.
Crafting the plot: A killer story has a clear plot, and so should your resume. Kick things off with a compelling introduction—think of it as the teaser that hooks the audience. Then, lay out the chapters of your career. Each role, project, or experience is a chapter in your saga, and every bullet point adds flavour to your character development.
Show, Don’t Just Tell: This is gold in storytelling and just as valuable in resume writing. Instead of blandly listing responsibilities, paint a picture of your impact. Did you lead a project that boosted sales by 30%? That’s a plot twist worth shouting about! Using concrete achievements not only spices up your story but also adds credibility.
The Climax: Your Key Achievements: What's a story without a climax? This could be that groundbreaking project, a leadership role where you rocked the boat (in a good way), or a significant achievement that still makes you beam with pride. Highlight these moments - they're the turning points that showcase your growth and value.
The Resolution: What’s Next: Every great story leaves the audience wanting more. Wrap up your resume with a forward-looking statement. Maybe it's a line in your summary or cover letter that hints at the next adventure you're itching to embark on. This not only ties your story together but also sets the stage for exciting chapters ahead.
Your resume is more than just a record of your past; it's a powerful narrative that showcases your growth and hints at the exciting possibilities ahead. Craft it with creativity and precision—because this is your story, and it’s worth telling well.
Quote - ‘There is no greater power on this earth than a story.’
Structuring Your Resume: Crafting Your Story with Impact
To turn your resume into a captivating story, how you present it matters as much as what you include. Here’s how to structure it effectively:
Clear Format - Use a clean layout with organised sections and clear headings for easy navigation.
Bullet Point - Employ bullet points to list key responsibilities and achievements concisely.
Layout Choice - Choose a chronological or functional format that best highlights your strengths and career progression.
Highlight Achievements - Emphasise key accomplishments with bold or italics to make them stand out.
Tailor for Each Role - Customise your resume for each job application to ensure relevance.
Use Keywords - Include keywords from the job description to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catch the hiring manager’s eye.
The End
There you have it! A resume that's not just a document but a dynamic story waiting to be read. Remember, in the story of your career, you're the author. Make it a story that's unforgettable. Who knows that resume could be the that starts it all.
Happy storytelling!
