How to Write a Stellar Resume Using Quotes and Charts

In today's challenging job market, candidates need to make sure they have an eye-catching
resume in order to attract the attention of busy and sometimes overwhelmed hiring managers.

And while you can fill your resume with a lot of industry jargon and irrelevant information, it won't be enough to show potential employers why you are a viable contender in the job search arena. You must make sure that whatever you do to punch up your resume, it represents the value that you offer for each targeted job.

-Add quotes

Career Directors International (CDI) said that while there are a number of things job seekers can do to tweak their
resumes , a trade secret of professional resume writers includes the use of quotes from past employers.

You can take a look at letters of recommendations, thank you letters from clients or employers and awards to find a quote that best describes your strengths.

CDI said that instead of simply writing "Recognized for consistently driving triple digit revenue growth in new territories for five consecutive years,"try getting the same point across with a quote - "Tom is a simply amazing sales manager; under his leadership we’ve seen his division’s sales demonstrate triple digit growth for each year he has been in charge."

-Use Charts

Many job seekers are using a variety of techniques to add appeal to their resumes. You may want to include a chart or graph to draw the reader's eye and provide a quick visual of your top accomplishments. However, CDI said that you should not add a chart or graph on your resume unless it makes sense to the specific job you are applying for and can show how you best met your goals.

You can use a
resume template for the body of your resume then create a chart in MS Word by using the help menu for "insert chart."

-Leave out overused words

Remember, what you leave out of your resume is often times as important as what you put in.

According to money writer Kerry K. Taylor, some resumes contain so many "buzzwords' that they come irrelevant. She said that resume writers should avoid generic words such as "responsible for," "experienced" and "detail oriented" and instead replace them with facts and quantitative figures that back up an applicant's skills and achievements.