If You’re Only Stating Your Tasks In Your Resume, You’re Doing It Wrong.

This quick change is what you need to make your resume more convincing.

By Matt Khoo on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM

Updated on 2025-01-24 at 9:11 AM

Simply stating what you’ve done at your previous jobs isn’t enough to grab an employer’s attention. Recruiters see countless resumes every day, and the ones that stand out are those that showcase achievements, not just responsibilities.

Want to make your resume irresistible? Shift the focus from tasks to accomplishments. And if you really want to seal the deal, include specific numbers or measurable results to back up your claims. Here’s how to take your resume to the next level:


If Your Resume Only Lists Tasks, You’re Missing Out

When it comes to resumes, listing tasks isn’t enough to grab an employer’s attention. Think about it: every candidate with a similar role can say they’ve “managed social media accounts” or “handled customer inquiries.” But what sets you apart? It’s your accomplishments.

A great resume shows how you’ve made an impact. Even better? Concrete numbers that back up your claims. Here’s how to elevate your resume and convince employers you’re worth calling in for an interview:


1. Focus on Achievements

Instead of just listing what you’ve done, highlight the results. Employers care about what you’ve achieved, not just your job description.

Don’t just say:

  • “Managed social media accounts.”

Instead, say:

  • “Boosted Instagram engagement by 45% in six months with creative campaigns.”

This simple tweak shifts the focus from what you did to what you accomplished, making a stronger impression.


2. Use Numbers to Prove Your Impact

Numbers are your best friend when it comes to resumes. They provide clear, undeniable proof of your abilities.

Instead of saying:

  • “Handled customer inquiries,”

Say:

  • “Resolved 95% of customer inquiries within 24 hours, raising satisfaction rates by 30%.”

Quantifiable achievements stand out and show employers you’re results-driven.


3. Highlight Problem-Solving Skills

Employers love candidates who can identify and solve challenges. Use your resume to show off how you’ve made things better in previous roles.

“Redesigned the company’s inventory tracking system, reducing errors by 20% and saving RM10,000 annually.”

Not only does this highlight your ability to improve processes, but it also shows that you think critically and act decisively.


4. Tailor Your Resume to Each Role

Your achievements should align with the job you’re applying for. If a job emphasizes customer service, focus on your accomplishments in that area. If the role values leadership, highlight how you’ve led projects or teams.

This makes it easier for employers to see you as the perfect fit for their needs.


5. Keep It Clean and Compelling

Formatting matters too. A cluttered resume is a chore to read. Make your achievements pop by:

  • Placing your most impressive results at the top.
  • Using bullet points for clarity.
  • Starting each point with action words like “led,” “increased,” “improved,” and “achieved.”

This makes it easy for employers to quickly identify your value.


More clever resume tips here:


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By Matt Khoo on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM