What should I put for experience on my resume?
Navigating the job market can be daunting, especially when it comes to crafting the perfect resume. One of the most critical sections of your resume is the experience section. It’s where potential employers get a glimpse into your professional background and skills. However, deciding what to include can be a challenge. In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for what you should put for experience on your resume.
Highlight Relevant Work Experience
When listing your experience on your resume, it’s crucial to focus on the relevant work you have done. This means including only positions that are directly related to the job you are applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, you should highlight your marketing-related experience, such as roles in advertising, digital marketing, or public relations.
Use Action Words and Quantifiable Achievements
To make your experience section stand out, use action words and quantifiable achievements. Instead of simply listing your job title and responsibilities, describe what you accomplished in each role. For instance, instead of saying “Managed a team of 10,” you could say “Successfully managed a team of 10, increasing team productivity by 20% over six months.”
Incorporate Key Skills and Competencies
In your experience section, make sure to incorporate the key skills and competencies that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. This could include technical skills, soft skills, or industry-specific knowledge. For example, if you’re applying for a project management position, you might mention your proficiency in project management software, your ability to lead cross-functional teams, and your strong communication skills.
Structure Your Experience Section Effectively
To make your experience section easy to read and understand, structure it effectively. Use bullet points to list your responsibilities and achievements, and consider using headings to separate different roles. This will help your employer quickly identify your most relevant experience and accomplishments.
Include Volunteering and Internships
If you have limited work experience or are a recent graduate, don’t hesitate to include volunteering and internship experiences. These can demonstrate your transferable skills and show that you are proactive and committed to personal and professional growth.
Keep It Concise and Tailored
Finally, remember to keep your experience section concise and tailored to each job application. Aim for a maximum of two pages, and tailor your experience to match the job description. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate for the position you’re applying for.
In conclusion, when it comes to what you should put for experience on your resume, focus on highlighting relevant work, using action words and quantifiable achievements, incorporating key skills, structuring your section effectively, including volunteering and internships, and keeping it concise and tailored. By following these best practices, you’ll create a compelling experience section that showcases your strengths and sets you apart from other candidates.
