

Bringing Out The Real You In Your Resume

22 Sep, 2016

Bringing Out The Real You In Your Resume

There’s a widespread frustration held by business executives that their resumes’ cannot adequately describe “the real me.” I’ve challenged this notion with the following comments and suggestions:



So many retorts to this thread involve the difficulty with describing intangibles such as “good heart,” “generous manager,” “versatile collaborator,” etc. In the interview-as any career coach, HR manager, or savvy hiring manager will tell you-the best way to answer a question is by telling a story to illustrate (not describe) your skills and talents.

For example, if someone asks “What is your greatest strength,” the answer should not stop at “I’m a people person.” Rather, you should seek to describe a particular situation in which your people skills were inarguably evident: “I’ve gained a reputation around the office as a sort of ambassador for our company.


This answer accomplishes several objectives:

  1. It shows recognition from colleagues and clients.
  2. It positions you at the top of your organization.


  • Recognized by clients and colleagues for personable nature, modesty, and leadership-as evidenced by a reliable willingness to meet face-to-face with each and every client, large or small.



I break a lot of rules in resume writing, particularly when drafting executives’ resumes. You can read about 11 such tactics in my article “11 Ways Executive Resumes Differ From Other Resumes.”


Stay on the BrightSide.



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