Page 28 - The Editors of VGM Career Books - Resumes for Computer Careers, Second Edition (2002)

Writing Your Resume 19

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Let’s look at two examples that differ only in their writing style. The
first resume section is ineffective because it does not use action words to
accent the applicant’s work experiences.

WORK EXPERIENCE
Regional Sales Manager
Manager of sales representatives from seven states. Manager of twelve food chain accounts
in the East. In charge of the sales force’s planned selling toward specific goals. Supervisor
and trainer of new sales representatives. Consulting for customers in the areas of inventory
management and quality control.
Special Projects: Coordinator and sponsor of annual Food Industry Seminar.

Accomplishments: Monthly regional volume went up 25 percent during my tenure while, at
the same time, a proper sales/cost ratio was maintained. Customer-company relations were
improved.

In the following paragraph, we have rewritten the same section using
action words. Notice how the tone has changed. It now sounds stronger
and more active. This person accomplished goals and really did things.

WORK EXPERIENCE
Regional Sales Manager

Managed sales representatives from seven states. Oversaw twelve food chain accounts in the
eastern United States. Directed the sales force in planned selling toward specific goals.
Supervised and trained new sales representatives. Counseled customers in the areas of
inventory management and quality control. Coordinated and sponsored the annual Food
Industry Seminar. Increased monthly regional volume by 25 percent and helped to improve
customer-company relations during my tenure.