Blog Post: Words to Woo

First, let’s not call them job descriptions – instead let your résumé list your “accomplishments,” “impact statements” or “contributions”. These words you use will show why you are the person they are looking for. (Remember résumés focus on the employers needs, not your own.)

Why hire you? Address these motivations and highlight how your contributions will positively affect their bottom line.

Motivator #1: Make Money

            Captured a 12% gain, record in company’s 53 year history

             Built sales in start-up from zero to $5.7 million in 4 years.

Motivator #2: Save Money

            Reengineered operations to net over $1 million in savings company-wide

            Initiated cost controls that reduced labor expenses $50,000 (7%)

Motivator #3: Save Time

            Retooled job descriptions to eliminate monthly overtime costs of $6,000

            Performed the work previously requiring two full-time employees

Motivator #4: Make Work Easier

            Consolidated business forms to reduce paperwork and eliminate duplication

            Analyzed warehouse receiving process and implemented systems reducing time-consuming                     stocking steps

Motivator #5: Solve a Specific Problem

            Troubleshoot reoccurring computer crashes for key customer

            Resolved approximately 25% of service call (company average 10%)

Motivator #6: More Competitive

            Recruited top talent to expand division 10%, keeping labor cost 10% below national average

            Initiated company sponsored training and certification for technical team

Motivator # 7 Build Relationships/Image

            Negotiated exclusive referral relationships with key industry resources

            Transformed association from fragmented factions in a cohesive alliance Motivator # 8 Expand                 Business

            Introduced service “bundling”, averaging 18% increase in sales

            Polled customers to identify preferences for additional services, increased sales 7%

Motivator #9 Attract New Customers

            Sourced new customers through electronic research, generating 12% increase

            Directed Chamber of Commerce Membership drive yielding 125 new members in 24 hours

Motivator # 10 Retain Existing Customers

            Increased customer-retention figures from 70 to 96%

            Implemented direct-mail follow-up for new customers with 55% increase in repeat sales

 

Note: Almost every accomplishment includes numbers – quantifiable and verifiable data. Using real numbers adds credibility to your contributions. Also know contributions can happen outside of work too – in civic or leisurely ventures.

 

From Resume Magic by Susan Britton Whitcomb

 

 

Coming Soon: Finding material for writing your accomplishments

 

Good luck Jobing!

 

Margaret

 

 

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