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How to Write a Resume Personal Statement

What is a resume personal statement?

A resume personal statement expresses who you are, where you’ve been, and sometimes where you plan to go next right at the top of your resume.

Everyone has different circumstances, so the personal statement helps to orient a potential future boss in terms of what they are about to read in the resume. Think about what you would like to share that matters to you. This space is particularly useful if you are changing industries , coming back in to the employment market or looking for a promotion. Your shop window starts here. The personal statement may be the only thing than an employer reads.

The resume personal statement hooks in a reader, influencing them to read more. So, how do you write a resume personal statement that is both natural and grabs an employer’s attention? Offer them a brief insight into who you are and why you would be a fantastic hire. So what do you write in a personal statement for a job?

This guide will cover:

• The basic formatting of a personal statement: How to tailor your personal statement to give you a competitive advantage
• Personal statement examples you should (and shouldn’t) use
• Practical steps for getting started on your resume personal statement

The personal statement format

The personal statement is a short paragraph that sits right below your contact information at the top of a resume . It sums up your experience, goals and skills with confidence. Think of your resume’s personal statement like an extended tagline for your career. A resume personal statement should include:

• Between 50 and 200 words in 3 - 4 sentences
• Your title or function, for example “Junior developer” or “Passionate hospitality manager”
• An opening hook
• Soft skills and hard skills
• Impressive facts and stats
• Your short and/or long-term goals
• Job-specific slant for the position you’re applying to

This may seem like a lot to cram into 200 words but perfecting your elevator pitch shows that you have a firm grasp of why your experience, goals, and skills make you the perfect fit for the job. Go all out to make this as fitting for each role as possible. Too often candidates come up with what they see as the perfect introduction to them and forget about how a hiring manager for each specific role might read it. Be flexible with the personal statement. It might not present the very best version of you - it should present the best version of you for this particular role.

This brief introduction is only a short piece of text, it is not disruptive and in many cases even serves as a welcome addition to what is otherwise a dry and impersonal document. It should be clear to you by now how we feel about the personal statement: Include it, especially because it allows you that bit of creativity that may make all the difference. Adopt a conversational tone and consider using the first person for these few lines. Third person (past tense) is standard for resumes, but if you want to go personal, this is where to do it.

How do I start my personal statement? How do you not start a personal statement? Even with a personal statement of 3-4 lines, sometimes the first sentence is the hardest. Even the first few words can have a disproportionate effect on how your personal statement is viewed. Your starting "hook" should make your fit with the role clear and specific. Use an example that is as unique to you as possible - you have to make your future employer sit up and pay attention. The first word of your personal statement should never be "I" - a great resume explores the potential of a common partnership and should not be a uni-directional monologue.

Align your resume’s personal statement with the job description

The hiring manager delicately chose every word in their job description. Gather clues from its tone, which skills they highlight, and any hints that point toward their dream employee. One of the top resume tips from HR managers is to include relevant keywords specific to the job posting itself as well as the actual wording of the job title .

What would this job description look like in 3 - 4 sentences? What keywords, skills, and tone would the job description have?

While still sticking to the facts about who you are and your experiences, your resume personal statement should highlight as many similarities with the job description as possible. When the hiring manager reads the first few sentences in your resume, they feel like you are exactly the person they were describing when they wrote the job description.

Position of the personal statement

Recruiters still prefer to see a candidate's personal details at the top (or running along a column on either side) of the resumes that cross their desk. This allows them to quickly search through the resumes that Applicant Tracking Systems have sorted into their virtual “yes” pile. You do not want your (relatively modern) personal statement to get in the way of this tradition. 

The best place to put your statement is after your personal details (if they are at the top) and before your employment history section. Remember that the length of your resume is important. If you have already been very selective and cannot possibly leave out any more information and if adding your personal statement means your resume spills over onto a third page, you may consider not including your statement for the position in question. This ensures you comply with the unwritten rule that a resume should not be longer than two pages.

What is a good personal statement length? 200 words is the maximum suggested length, but if you go with one powerful sentence that you want the hiring manager to remember for the rest of the interview process, then why not? Less is more, but you have to be confident in your application to go with this option.

Plan to write your resume personal statement last

Instead of getting stuck at the beginning trying to write the perfect statement, skip this section and jump right into your employment history first. Once you’ve added your relevant work experiences , take a look at your keywords, phrases and skills from your past positions.

Your complete work history and the job description for the job you want are the foundations for your personal statement. By writing your resume personal statement last, it should be easier to get started once you have the right inspiration.

It might be the case that you leave a certain number of lines for the personal statement on your resume and write an individual statement for each role. You will often have a public version of your resume that is accessible on job boards (etc), so there should still be an "ideal" personal statement version.

How do I write a resume from scratch? While it is good advice to write the resume personal statement after your have written the resume itself (giving your brain a chance to ponder your true highlights), starting writing a resume is a mammoth task in itself. There are many useful pieces of advice when sitting down to write a resume, but for me, the key is to think about the reflecting the combination of what you are good at, what you enjoy and how those things will contribute to the direction of your career. For sure, be honest about your experience, but there has to be a creative flavour of ensuring that your past adequately reflects where you want to go.

Check out resume personal statement examples

Before you dive into writing, get a sense for different rhythms and layouts by checking these resume personal statement examples. How do you write a good personal statement?

Let's start with the basics. Since every person is unique, all personal statements should be unique too. You should, therefore, resist the urge to (largely) copy someone else's existing statement. This is the only spot on your resume to let your voice be heard, so try to write something that would prompt a friend to exclaim, “That sounds like something you’d say!” while, of course, keeping it professional.

Example. Innovative Executive Assistant with 10+ years of experience with global financial firm assisting a team of three C-Level directors. Expertly coordinate travel, manage large-scale expense reports, and streamline communication and calendars across departments..Seeking an Executive Assistant role with the Resume.io team to expand my office management career and thrive in an environment that requires independent problem-solving skills and focus under short deadlines.

The example above does the following things:

• States their title in the first sentence
• Includes specifics such as team size and duties
• Succinctly sums up major responsibilities and skills
• Highlights hard skills —experience arranging travel and expense reports—as well as soft skills —grace under pressure, attention to detail and communication.
• Specifically tailors the final statement with the company and/or job description

Here are a few more resume personal statement examples:

Experienced Digital Marketing Manager with five years of expertise in heading up a global firm. Increased inbound leads by 500% and raised online sales from 100,000 annually to over 2 million in a three-year period. Looking to grow career by applying skills to the Resume.io marketing team.

Straight to the point and accomplishment focused, without the use of “I”. Now let’s look at a less effective example:

I have worked as a Digital Marketing Manager for five years. During this time I have been an important and hard-working member of the team and showed my ability to work under pressure to deliver on company targets. I am looking to bring my skills to a new role in digital marketing.

Generic and ignores accomplishments. Also, too many uses of “I” in a passive voice.

Next is an example of a personal statement that focuses more on career objectives . A career objective can be used as a way to get across your skills and experience, without the personal bit. It’s a good option if you’re an entry-level candidate or college graduate without a lot of experience in the industry you’re applying for. The idea is, because you don’t have the relevant experience to talk about, you pull skills and experience from other areas of your resume so you can show you have what it takes.

Keep your career objective brief — 2-3 sentences max — following the same rules as the personal statement.

Content writer with three years' experience in a large e-commerce company. Delivered content that grew brand social presence to over 700,000 across three channels and improved email open rates by 48%. Looking to further career by joining the Resume.io as an SEO Executive.

See how it uses transferable skills? Combining these with numbers makes them all the more impressive.

And a less effective resume personal statement example:

I am a content writer looking to secure a role as an SEO Executive. While I have no experience in this field and am a dedicated individual and a keen learner. My enjoyment of how search engines work will help me excel in your company.

There’s not enough here to capture attention and it doesn’t sell transferable skills. Whichever type of opening statement you go for, if you have numbers to show, make them count.

Writing your personal profile resume

Always write the first draft of a personal profile resume without editing. Don’t worry about length or word choice in the first pass. Brag about yourself, be proud of your accomplishments , and add in all of your most impressive stats.

Some of the best writing happens without editing too soon, so don’t worry about sounding over the top or egotistical, that’s what editing your personal profile resume is for. If the goal is to get 3 - 4 perfect sentences, it’s likely your first draft will be closer to 6 - 8, maybe even longer. Then consider which parts are closest to helping you get the job and cull the rest. It might seem brutal, but brevity is critical at the top of your personal profile.

Polish your personal statement and experiment

Once you’ve narrowed your focus, use the following questions to help you review your work and edit your statement:

Is my first sentence clear and concise? The opening line should state your position and use strong, enthusiastic language to hook in the reader. It often includes years of experience as well.

Is it direct opposed to passive? A strong sense of self comes through in a personal statement. Instead of sentences that begin with “I believe I am…” or “I enjoy…” be bold. Get right to the point and take ownership of your skills .

Does it include objective information? For this one, try to get inside the hiring manager’s mind. If you were filling this role, what boxes would you need to check off? The second and third sentence often include specific skills, facts or figures to support this need.

Does it read naturally? Even with all these specifics, the statement should still be easy to understand and have a natural rhythm when read aloud. Cut out any jargon that acts as filler or that changes your tone. Formality may vary from company to company, but personal statements should always reflect the type of employee or person you are.

What are three tips for writing a personal statement?

• Make sure that your personality comes across in the writing.
• Quantify any accomplishments and include financials where possible.
• If you are at a moment of career change, don't fail to mention your goals.

Common mistakes in personal statements

When writing your personal statement, beware of platitudes. These are clichéd expressions that have become meaningless from overuse. They induce recruiters to roll their eyes and move on to the next candidate. Think of such terms as “an administrative jack-of-all-trades” or “a cog in the wheel’ and being ready for a “new challenge.”  Definitely avoid this list of human resources’ most hated resume phrases. 

Try to be original in your choice of words and ask a friend or family member to take a critical look at your personal statement when you are done. By the way, you should always have someone proofread your entire resume when you think you are ready to send it.

Some people call their personal statements " resume objectives ." This is something else entirely. A resume objective is required when a candidate needs to project their hopes for their next role that differe from their previous experience a little. This objective can then be used to outline the motivations behind a career change and is also common with early-career professionals. 

Does a personal statement need a title? Some resume templates might call the opening statement a summary and others may exclude a description entirely. Either option is fine as employers are conditioned to expect a few lines at the to of a resume to serve as a headline for your job application.

What do employers expect from your resume opening statement?

Sometimes it is useful to consider job seeking activity from the point of view of the end hiring managers. External recruiters are important people to impress, but it is the employers that will be making the ultimate hiring decision. They will be reading lots of resumes, so what would they want to read in your resume opening statement?

• They will want the resume opening statement to be written for them. When you are on the hunt for a new member of your professional family, an intensely personal connection is vital from the first lines.
• They will expect a quantifiable context to your resume opening statement. Impressive words come easily when you really need a job, but backing them up with numbers to demonstrate their scale is less simple.
• They will expect to be impressed. If you cannot impress a specific employer for a specific role with the first lines of your resume, then the role is almost certainly not for you. Nothing to shout about? Move on.

Key takeaways

Think of your CV personal statement as the first 2 minutes of an interview—whether on the phone or in person. The HR manager asks you to “tell me a little about yourself,” and you have a quick minute to set the tone for the rest of the conversation. Similarly, the CV personal statement should include:

• A natural, yet professional CV tone that reflects your personality
• The top reasons your experience makes you a unique fit for this position
• Why this role aligns with your career plans
• Facts and data on your CV that back up your earlier points

Crafting a personal statement for each role will cause some serious thought. What is your essential fit for the role that will make a hiring manager sit up and think "wow, I need to have them on my team?" What would you want to read if you were in their shoes. You will definitely have lots to say, but keep it simple and powerful.

One more good CV statement example:

Expert SEO copywriter with a decade of B2C and B2B experience across three industries. Versatile in writing social, website and long-form copy to convey each brand’s unique tone and message. I cultivated 15 new clients in two years and grew readership by over 200%. I am now seeking to expand my editing and content creation expertise in a Marketing Manager position.

Once you’ve mastered writing your CV personal statement, this clear sense of who you are and what you want will prepare you to pitch yourself during interviews.

How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples]

Creating an effective CV takes time and close attention to detail. You've already included your jobs and experience , and now you want to allow the recruiter or hiring manager to understand the strategic value you can add.

This is when you need to utilize a personal statement at the top of your CV.

How to Write a CV Personal Statement [+4 Real-life Examples] 

What is a Personal Statement? 

A personal statement is a few brief and direct sentences at the top of your CV. The personal statement is also referred to as a career summary or personal mission statement.

This is used to grab the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager and summarizes essential experiences or training that you can bring to this position.

Why do I Need a Personal Statement?

A recruiter or hiring manager is tasked with sorting through an enormous amount of resumes every single day. A personal statement is a way to separate yourself from the other applicants.

This statement summarizes your experience and highlights your unique talents . The CV personal statement is meant to demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the job. 

Even med students need a medical school personal statement , as it is what differentiates them from all the other students applying. Plus, it allows them to share their personal stories and objectives.

Where do I Start? 

Always begin by reading the job description carefully and thoroughly.

Your personal statement should be tailored to each job description, so it explicitly states the value you’ll bring to the position you are applying. A generic personal statement cannot do that. 

Once you have a solid handle on the job description, you can begin writing. It’s important to keep your personal statement brief, about 50-200 words will do.

Don’t forget that you have your whole cover letter to show some personality and include engaging content.

The personal statement should be a quick summary that highlights why you are the best person for the job. 

You’ll need to decide whether you are writing your personal statement in first- or third-person. This should follow how you've written the rest of your CV.

For example, if you've already written, “I grew and developed a team of 50 salespeople,” in your CV then you will want to keep your personal statement in first-person to match the prevailing style.

No matter what you choose, make sure that you keep it consistent throughout. Do not switch between first- and third-person as that will get confusing to the hiring manager.

Writing a personal statement for your CV in first-person does not mean you need to start every sentence with “I.”

There are ways to craft your personal statement to sound snappy, concise and personal, and here are a few examples to help inspire your personal statement. 

CV Personal Statement Examples

It doesn’t matter what chose as your desired career or how much experienc e you have, use these examples to drive the creation of your own personal statement.

You can take snippets from each or write something completely different. Always remember that your personal statement is a reflection of yourself and should align with your own personal goals and experience.

If these examples don’t fit your exact career, feel free to take some pointers and write yours from scratch. 

#1: Personal Statement Example for Recent Graduate CV

“As a recent graduate from university, with an honors degree in communications, I held several internships within leading organizations, including Bertelsmann. These internships enabled me to gain experience in the field and learn how to serve up valuable contributions in a fast-paced, professional environment.”

Explanation: This example should be customized to include the university you’ve graduated from and any relevant internships. A compelling personal statement always highlights relevant skills and experiences.

In this case, a recent graduate does not have extensive experience in the workforce, so soft skills like experiencing success in a fast-paced work environment and becoming a trusted team member become even more critical.

#2: Personal Statement Example for Returning to the Workforce CV

“A highly motivated and experienced office administrator, I am currently looking to resume my professional career after an extended hiatus to raise my family. Proficient in all Microsoft Office programs, I can lead meetings and work with clients to keep your office running smoothly and efficiently. After spending several years volunteering as an administrative worker for a local charity, I am committed to resuming my professional career on a full-time basis.”

Explanation: After time off from a career, it can be hard to break back into the market. This personal statement outlines the reason for the break, the relevant qualifications and what the applicant has been doing in between jobs.

Any volunteer experience becomes highly relevant when there is no concrete professional experience to draw upon, to demonstrate the use of those skills. 

#3: Personal Statement Example for a Career Change CV

“With over 15 years as a sales manager, I have extensive experience building high-functioning sales teams that consistently achieve budget numbers. In fact, my ability to grow talent led to a 20% increase in annual renewals across the board. Now, after 15 years, I am seeking new challenges to flex my marketing muscles in a fast-paced environment.” 

Explanation: When changing careers , it's essential to highlight skills that are transferable between industries.

In this case, leadership and team-building experience can apply to any industry. Homing in on concrete numbers and percentages increases credibility when applying for a position.

The applicant ends with the reason behind the desired career change. This part is not necessary but may be appealing to some hiring managers who are wondering what the impetus for the career change.

#4: Personal Statement Example for a Experienced Professional CV

“As a friendly, professional and highly trained educator, I am passionate about teaching and have an innate ability to understand student’s needs. Creating a safe and productive environment for optimal learning is my top priority. I’ve worked as a teacher for nearly 10 years in a variety of subjects and my experience and skill set make me the perfect fit for your team.”

Explanation: With more experience comes more skills and a better idea of strengths and weaknesses. Showcasing your passion for the industry is a great way to begin a personal statement, as it shows the hiring manager your dedication to the craft. 

A personal statement can be written in many different ways, but it is ultimately up to you to determine what skills you want to highlight for your chosen position.

You can follow these examples or take learnings from each to contribute towards your personal statement. 

If you understand the job you are applying for and know the unique skill set that you bring to the table, you will have a stellar personal statement for your CV that will get you across the table from the hiring manager in no time.  

Suggested Reading:

• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 43+ Resume Tips and Tricks to Land Your Next Job
• 150+ Must-Have Skills for Any Resume  [With Tips + Tricks]
• How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself”

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CV Personal Statement Examples and Tips

Your personal statement is the first thing a recruiter or hiring manager will read when flicking through what will usually be a huge pile of CVs. With so much competition, you need a personal statement that grabs their attention for all the right reasons. But how do you write one? Here’s our guide along with a couple of personal statement examples for inspiration.

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a concise paragraph that sits at the top of your CV just below your name and contact details and tells the reader why you would be a fantastic asset for their company. It should include a summary of your most relevant skills and experience and give the recruiter an insight into your ambitions and character.

Your personal statement should explain:

• Who you are
• Your suitability for the role and the value you can add
• Your career goals

Conveying all that information in just a few sentences is certainly not easy, but with research suggesting that recruiters spend an average of just six seconds reviewing each CV before deciding whether the applicant is a good fit, you must get it right.

How to write a winning personal statement for your CV

No one has your specific skills and experience, so your personal statement must be unique. However, there are some universal tips you can follow.

• Length, formatting and tone of voice

Probably the biggest challenge you’ll face when writing a personal statement for your CV is keeping it between 50 and 150 words, or around four or five lines of text. It should be clean and concise, formatted consistently and written in the same font and point size as the rest of your CV.

Personal statements can be written in the first (“I am a marine biologist”) or third-person (“Marine biologist looking for”), but whatever voice you choose, keep it consistent throughout your CV.

Recruiters read so much hyperbole and waffle that being honest and understated will help you stand out. This is not The Apprentice, so buzzwords, empty promises and meaningless metaphors should be avoided at all costs.

• Back up your claims

Cliches like ‘hard worker’ or ‘experienced’ are just empty words that recruiters see hundreds of times a day. Instead, establish your credentials with relevant vocational qualifications or professional memberships you have and quantify the level of experience you have. For example, “I am a RICS qualified surveyor with eight years’ experience working for a property development company”.

• Include statistics from your career

Including specific data or statistics in your personal statement will immediately make it stand out from the hundreds of others recruiters read every day. Metrics of success are far more memorable than simply listing your achievements. For example, “I introduced a new lead qualification tool that increased sales by 15 percent”.

• Remove pronouns in the third person

The personal statement on your CV is the one place where it’s okay to talk about yourself in the third person. However, using pronouns, for example, “he is a conscientious worker with 12 years of experience...” is a step too far. Instead, drop the pronouns, so that would become “A conscientious worker with 12 years of experience…”

Personal statement examples

Here are a few examples of personal statements to keep you on the right track and hopefully provide a little inspiration.

Written in the first person by a graduate looking for their first professional role.

I am a recent graduate with a first-class degree in economics, specialising in econometrics and international trade. I have commercial experience in the finance sector courtesy of an internship with a UK corporation, where I developed the technical data engineering skills you are looking for. I have a proven ability to meet deadlines and produce consistently high-quality work, as evidenced by my degree, and would relish the chance to develop my skills within your organisation.

Written in the third person by an experienced purchasing manager looking to climb the ladder.

Purchasing manager with 12 years of experience who wants to progress to a more senior role within the aviation industry. Has developed strong and lasting relationships during previous managerial positions in the sector and wants to put this strong network to good use to add value to your business.

Time to get hired

Writing a winning personal statement that you’re happy with and that summarises your skills and experience effectively in just a few lines will take time. However, using these tips and examples as a guide and editing your personal statement for every role is an important piece of the puzzle.

To hear Guardian Jobs reader Elia’s story and how her Personal Career Management programme helped land her ideal job watch the video .

Personal Career Management can offer you a  free review to assess your needs and to see which programme is right for you.

To book call Personal Career Management on 01753 888 995 or fill in the contact form .

Personal Career Management are Career Management Partners for the Guardian and are a specialist career coaching and outplacement company.

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Best CV Personal Profile Examples

What is a CV personal profile?

A personal profile, also known as a CV summary, is the opening statement of your CV. It is a short introduction which outlines your personal characteristics, telling the prospective employer what kind of a person you are, the attributes and qualities that you possess and the work experience that you have.

How to write a CV profile statement from scratch

When writing your personal profile, ensure it is:

• Short (no more than 6 lines);
• Relevant to the job you are applying for, and;
• Contains some real-world examples .

Be bold, be confident and talk about yourself in a positive way.

Your personal profile is not the place to be humble; it is your chance to be noticed and tell the potential employer exactly who you ‘really’ are and what you can do for them.

Warning: Do not go ‘over the top’ and give the impression that you are either very arrogant or simply too good to be true! Keep it balanced and realistic, bearing in mind the needs of the employer.

Click here if you want to see a bad example of a personal profile.

What information to include on a personal profile

The purpose of your personal profile is to concisely present your skills, qualities, work experience, and your career goals and ambitions. Consequently, you can mention anything from the following categories when constructing your personal profile:

Personal Qualities

• Self-motivated
• Having an eye for detail
• Management skills
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Design skills
• 5 years experience in …
• Excellent track record of …
• Extensive background in …
• Previous work experience in …

An ideal statement should have at least one example for each of these three categories.

How long should my profile statement be?

There are no set rules about the length of a personal profile, however, it is highly recommended to keep it ideally within the 50/80-words boundary (no longer than six lines). The reason for this is because employers, in the first instance, tend to scan CVs rather than extensively read it. Keeping it short and to the point increases the chances that they will actually read it.

Furthermore, as the total length of a CV is only 2 A4 pages long, having a short statement frees us valuable space for other key sections of your CV such as the work experience, education and skills sections .

Winning personal profile CV examples from all job sectors

Business management cv profile.

• The candidate mentions their key personal skills and qualities that are relevant and important when managing a business.
• The candidate mentions their relevant work experience in the field, indicating that they are able to work within multiple job sectors.

IT CV profile

• The candidate correctly highlights their areas of expertise, such as designing websites, networking and managing databases. It is clear from these examples that the individual has a broad understanding of IT and would be able to work on a wide range of IT projects.
• The candidate reassures the prospective employer that although they are working in a very technical field, they have the ability to work with a wide range of people. Interpersonal and communication skills are key to any job.

Student CV profile

• The above personal statement is clear and informative, making it clear that the applicant is a student, currently completing their university degree, and are looking to work part-time in the industry.
• It is always a good idea, as the candidate has done in this example, to clearly mention your availability for work and also the reasons for why you are seeking work. “Making money” is not a good enough reason for an employer to give you a job. The candidate has mentioned that they wish to put into practice what they have learned and make a positive contribution to the employer.

HR CV profile

• The candidate highlights that they have previous work experience in Human Resources (HR), making them familiar with the payroll systems and employment law. Additionally, they indicate some personal qualities (such as interpersonal skills and being sensitive to people’s privacies) which would be highly beneficial for the role that they are applying for.

Manager CV profile

• The candidate not only states that they have three years’ of experience in management but they also mention the positive contribution that they made to that organisation. In this case, it was a significant improvement in the performance of the team that they were managing.

Sales/retail CV profile

• Just by looking at the profile statement of this individual, we can conclude that this person has thorough experience of sales and is able to handle the various aspects of the selling process. Additionally, their promotion indicates that they are a high achiever.

Teaching CV profile

• In just a few lines, the candidate demonstrates a great deal of compassion, empathy and care for young people and their futures. This level of care and concern, along with an enduring passion for teaching, are the key ingredients of being successful in any teaching careers.
• The candidate indicating that they are able to work with young children from all backgrounds and walks of life. This is important, especially when living in today’s multicultural and diverse societies.

Engineering CV profile

• The candidate correctly highlights their previous work experience and areas of expertise. This makes them look like a very competent and accomplished chemical engineer, increasing the chances of being invited for an interview.

Designer CV profile

• This is an effective statement because the candidate highlights their valuable 1st class degree in Graphic Design and previous work experience in the design industry. Additionally, the candidate makes mention of their personal qualities, such as having the ability to think outside the box, to further indicate their suitability for the job.

Hospitality CV profile

• The above is an excellent example of how profile statement should be constructed; it contains references to their previous work experience in the same industry, personal qualities that are relevant to the job (e.g. having a passion for food and socialising with people) and their job achievements (e.g. winning an award). Any employer reading this statement will have to think twice before they put it in the rejection pile!

Admin CV profile

• The candidate mentions their previous work experience project management and providing administrative support to businesses.
• This admin personal statement clearly demonstrates that the individual is aware of all the challenges that administrators face; working in a busy working environment, handling multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising tasks and achieving the highest standard of work.

Customer service CV profile

• The candidate indicates that they are able to resolve customer enquiries and complaints face-to-face, over the phone or via email. This ability enables them to work in a variety of different job settings, i.e. a call centre, on the shop floor or at a desk.
• Their statement contains a tangible example of accomplishment (i.e. successfully resolving 150 customer enquiries or complaints).

Media CV profile

• The candidate has included many examples of their previous work experience and competencies in the field. Any employer interested in hiring an experienced camera operator will most certainly be impressed and continue reading the remainder of their CV.

Healthcare CV profile

• The candidate highlights that they are able to work with a variety of different people, something which is essential as physiotherapists will be working with people from all backgrounds and ages.
• The statement includes personal qualities that are important to have as a physiotherapist, such as being caring and friendly. Although some careers advisors do not recommend generic words such as ‘caring’ and ‘friendly’, it is nevertheless recommended to include them if they truly reflect your personality and if the rest of the personal statement contains specific information which is not generic in nature.

Writer CV profile

• This profile is short and punchy, increasing the chances that it will be read in full by the prospective employers
• The candidate highlights their career achievements by stating that their works have been accepted and published by leading newspapers and magazines – a testimony to the high quality of their work.

Science CV profile

• This statement is short and to the point; highlighting all the important information such as the candidates work experience, expertise and some personal qualities and characteristics.

Do I need to include a personal statement on my CV? No, it is entirely optional to include a personal profile on your CV. However, it is generally recommended to include one, particularly as it serves as a little “About me” section at the top of your CV. Every written document has an introduction, why shouldn’t a CV?

Can I use the first person tense in my statement? Yes, the first and third person tenses are both fine to use – but not both. Decide on the one tense and stick to it.

Where should I include the profile statement on my CV There is no fixed place in which you should put your personal profile. Some candidates place it at the bottom of their CVs. Ideally, you should position it at the top of your CV.

What is the most important thing to include on a personal profile? Real-world examples and tangible performance indicators, for example; increased sales by x percent, managed x number of people, won such-and-such awards, improved productivity by x percent, etc. These types of information are highly valuable, as opposed to saying that you are the “best salesperson in the country” and not backing it up with any evidence!

Need help with other sections of your CV?

While you’re still here – don’t forget to check out our amazing How to write a CV guide for more practical tips on writing your perfect CV or this useful resource.

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CV Personal Statement:  Examples and Actionable Tips

Fact: recruiters spend only 6 seconds reviewing each CV. So poorly organized CVs inevitably get discarded. 

Having an effective CV layout is the first step to attracting their attention. And the second step is topping that CV with a compelling personal statement (also known as a personal profile, personal summary, or executive summary).

What is a Personal Statement in a CV? 

A personal statement for a CV is a short and compelling paragraph that summarizes why you’re the most qualified person for the offered role. It tells the reader who you are and what valuable qualifications you will be bringing to their company.

NB : Opening statement, personal profile, personal summary, or executive summary are the other common names for a personal statement. 

Many believe that the work experience section is the most important element of a CV. Yet, it is your personal statement that can end up making or breaking the success of your job application. 

Because it provides the reader with a quick answer to one question they have on their mind: Are you qualified for the job or not? 

Remember: You’ll be directly competing with numerous other applicants with similar skills and work experiences. A compelling CV statement sets you apart by giving the reader a condensed snapshot of who you are as a person. 

Do I Need To Include a Personal Statement On My CV?

The short answer is YES! A personal statement entices the reader to read your entire CV by giving them a preview of your most valuable skills. It also helps you differentiate from other candidates by explaining your background, motivation, and personal character traits concisely. 

In essence, a personal statement helps you express why you are the right choice for the job in one condensed paragraph.

Where Should a Personal Statement Go in a CV?

A personal statement goes into the header area of your CV. Include it right under your name and contact details as a separate, highlighted area. A good personal statement is about 3-4 sentences long and occupies not more than 1/4th of the page. 

Alternatively, you can design a two-column CV and allocate the upper sidebar area for your personal statement. As a recent survey found, 77% of recruiters prefer two-column CVs to single-column ones.

Sample personal statement placement on a CV template

What Do You Write in a CV Personal Statement?

A compelling personal statement summarizes your professional and educational background; highlights the main skills and accomplishments. It can also express your career objectives and/or interest in the particular industry or subject if you’re a current student or recent graduate.  

Personal Statement Examples for CV 

To give you an idea of how to write your statement, let’s look at some examples.

Remember: You need to write a unique personal statement for your CV. Simply copying and using these examples may not be the best move because the sample CV statements won’t reflect your unique experiences and personality. 

Good CV Personal Statement Examples

Employers want to see experts. Therefore, your personal statement must speak directly to your most marketable skills. 

You should never come off sounding desperate or diminish your worth (even if you have been recently laid off ). Use a confident tone with first-person implied and strong verbs to describe your core competencies and other benefits you can bring to the workplace. 

General Jobseeker Personal Statement Example

Highly motivated, fully trained engineer with 15 years of experience in the telecoms industry. Worked with XYZ Telecoms Ltd, Cool Mobile Carrier, and Acme Telco as a field engineer and project team leader. Successfully managed large commercial telecom infrastructure installations. Currently unemployed due to the relocation of the company. Open to new opportunities in NOC. 

Personal Statement CV Example For an Administration Position 

Adaptable and resourceful facilities manager with experience in supporting enterprise-sized organizations in real estate, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing industries. Strong organizational skillset: Six Sigma, standardized method of procedure (MOP) policies implementation. Was responsible for facilities operations on 2.4 million square feet in a 20-building chemical manufacturing campus, serviced by a 20+ people team of building engineers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and cleaners.

Accountant Personal Statement CV Examples

Below are two samples for a senior and a junior accountant. 

Chartered Accountant 

ACCA-certified accountant for mid-market and enterprise-sized companies. Conducted due diligence and tax audits for FTSE 500 companies. Commenced for a 100% accuracy track record in financial reporting, as well as fast turnaround on complex analytical reviews. Provide on-demand advisory on trust setup, company incorporation, and tax deferrals. 

Account Assistant 

Detail-oriented, certified accounting assistant with experience in payroll administration. Familiar with Gusto, Xero, and Intuit software. Effectively process payroll, benefits, taxes, and social contributions for over 1500 employees per month. Possess a strong foundation in employee classification,  tax reporting, and financial management. 

CV Personal Statement Examples for Students

Whether you’re applying for an internship or looking for a part-time job , a compelling personal is a must-have for a student CV. 

Since your work experience history may be a bit “thin”, you need to persuade the employer via other means — your transferable skills, academic interests, and personal traits. A personal CV allows you to spotlight all of these. 

Remember that you are bringing your energy, dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn to the table. As you will not have any employment history, you need to make sure to get your personality and your soft skills over in your statement.

CV Statement for a Student Looking for a Full-Time Summer Job 

Junior copywriter, enrolled in a BA Writing Program at the University of Manchester (graduation date: fall 2025). Alumni of the 2022 Copywriting Bootcamp program from Matters Agency. Well-versed in target audience analysis, brand positioning, and editorial campaign planning. Writing clips for eCommerce and SaaS brands are available in my portfolio.  

CV Statement for an Internship 

Second-year mechanical engineering student at the University of Leeds, seeking to apply theoretical knowledge in safety system design. Proficient in AutoCAD and completed a series of blueprints for fire and water safety systems as part of my coursework. Fast learner, self-starter, and team player, I’m excited to contribute my technical expertise to a dynamic engineering team.

CV Statement for a Student Looking for a Part-Time Job 

Junior front-end developer (React, Angular JS), seeking a part-time programming position in the Great London area. Current availability is 10-15 hours per week, preferably with hybrid work arrangements. Solid understanding of design systems and UX/UI best practices. Past work experience in finance and eCommerce sectors. 

CV Personal Statement Examples for 16-Year-Olds

Joining the workforce straight after high school makes sense if you want to take a gap year or pursue trade education later on. The wrinkle, however, is that most employers may be wary of your age and lack of experience.

The goal of a personal statement is to dispel those doubts by showing that you’re a serious, mature, and hard-working candidate, eager to learn and hone your craft. 

Personal Statement for a Barista Position 

Genuine coffee lover and frequent guest at Maddie’s Cafe, I would love to join the barista team. As a former head of the prom planning committee, I understand the importance of good teamwork, efficient planning, and following instructions. My main objectives are to learn more about beverage prep and deliver exceptional experiences to customers. 

CV Personal Statement Examples For A Graduate

Your personal statement should focus on your main educational attainments and experiences. If you are applying before you have had your degree results, it is fine to give a projected grade. You can also mention any specific modules you have studied that are relevant to the job on offer and how much you enjoyed working on them.

Remember: Your goal is to explain why you’re interested in this role and what you could bring to the table. 

Graduate Personal Statement Example

Business administration graduate with a 1:1 honors degree from XYZ University. Interested in an entry-level merchandising position within your Commercial Sales Department to expand my knowledge in retail merchandising, procurement, and inventory management. Looking to apply my analytical and data modeling skills for merchandising strategy optimization. 

Personal Statement for High School Graduate 

Energetic and enthusiastic high school graduate (June 2023) with top A-levels grades in English, Maths, and French. Seeking an entry-level role in sales, where I can make use of and develop my language skills. My long-term career goal is to further my language qualifications and position myself as a European sales manager living and working overseas for a global company.

Personal Statement Examples for CV With No Experience

Lack of experience in a particular role or industry should never discourage you from applying. Although you may not tick all the criteria boxes, you still have transferable skills and unique work experiences to showcase.

Moreover, ongoing talent shortages are prompting employees to reconsider their hiring criteria, plus invest more in new hire training and upskilling. Four in five companies now struggle to fill in open vacancies, which is the highest number in the past 17 years. 

So take your chances and apply even if you don’t have sufficient work experience. 

Personal Statement Example with No Relevant Work Experience 

Former front-desk hotel employee, looking for an opportunity to leverage strong service orientation and organizational skills in new roles (Customer Success or Customer Support). Familiarity with appointment booking software, digital chat apps, and CRM software. With my strong commitment to personal growth and my adaptable nature, I believe I could be a valuable asset to customer-centric teams.  

Personal Statement Example with No Industry Experience 

Self-starter with a BA degree in Communication and experience in corporate event management seeking a transition to music festival management. Experienced in organizing off-site events for 100+ people (including location scouting and travel coordination). I thrive in fast-paced environments and am eager to build a strong network of new partners. 

Discover even more personal statements from our collection of CV examples . 

CV Personal Statement For A Career Change

Career change is a big decision, but it can lead to a more fulfilling professional life. Besides, you’re not completely starting anew. Many of the hard and soft skills are quite universal. There is any number of different jobs that need the same set of skills that you have developed, so always try to lead with these and use real-life examples of your experience.

Career Change Personal Statement Example:

Working for the past 10 years as a regional sales manager has allowed me to develop keen skills in building strong working relationships and lucrative networks. Communication skills I developed during my time at my current employer enabled me to win vital contract wins that increased sales revenue by 20% over three years. I am now ready to take on a new challenge and want to work in the charity sector so that I can use my skills to give something back for the direct benefit of others.

How To Write A Strong Personal Statement for a CV 

An effective personal statement summarizes your skills and experience in a relevant way i.e., it indicates how you can be of help to the employer. 

In short, a compelling CV personal statement: 

• Lists your most marketable skills and qualifications 
• Highlights your industry knowledge and work experiences 
• Mirrors some of the key phrases, used in the job description 

And here’s how to write a personal statement that makes a mark.

1. Review the Job Description Once Again 

As you go through the role description, pay attention to the words, used by the employer, to describe the candidate’s requirements, duties, and personality. Keep those in the back of your head. 

These are the keywords you’d want to use all around your CV — in the personal statement, work experience, education, and skills areas. 

2. Do a Mental Tally of Your Skills 

Try to remember the times in your previous work roles when you accomplished notable objectives, went above and beyond expectations , or otherwise did better than your peers.  

Note down everything that springs to mind including your years of experience in a similar role, challenges you took on and the positive results achieved, new projects you kick-started – anything that has close relevance to this new position.

3. Make a Draft Personal Statement 

Write down a sample personal statement. Don’t worry about the length – just put as many details as you’d like on paper. Once you’re done, revisit the job description. See how your personal statement compares to the description. Does it paint a picture of someone who would fit the role? 

4. Edit for Clarity and Briefity 

A good CV personal statement shouldn’t be longer than 3-4 sentences. Take a critical look at your draft version and condense it to the bare essentials: 2-3 main skills, a major accomplishment, and a note on your motivation and/or personal traits. 

Other things that don’t belong in your personal statement are:

• Explanation of employment gaps or present unemployment status 
• Information about hobbies or personal interest 
• Any mention of references or recommendations 
• Irrelevant skills or work experiences 

Want to stand out even more? Add a persuasive opening statement that highlights your strengths as a candidate. 

A compelling personal statement can be the key between your CV making the ‘yes’ pile or the reject bin. Take some time to get your statement right and always write a new one for each job you apply for by mirroring the employer’s language. 

Finally, to give your CV a polishing touch, try out one of our fancy, but free CV templates , coming in multiple styles: professional, modern, simple, and creative!

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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Writing a personal statement for your CV

CV personal statements are like the sales pitch of your CV, but not everyone thinks they're useful. Discover if they're really necessary, how to write a CV personal profile and templates for inspiration

What is a CV personal statement?

A CV personal statement is a concise paragraph or summary, which details what you can bring to a job or company. It's also known as an opening statement, personal profile, personal summary or executive summary.

Sitting at the top of your CV, it's your opportunity to sell yourself to employers and to highlight the relevant skills and experience you possess.

While effectively and succinctly convincing recruiters that you're a good fit for the role, a personal statement gives you the chance to show off your strengths and share your career goals.

'The focus of your CV statement should be to target your offer to employers - why should they hire you and how are you different to other graduates? Therefore, making your personal statement as unique as possible is crucial to ensure you stand out from the crowd,' explains Alex Proctor, careers consultant at the University of Bradford.

Do I need a personal summary on my CV?

Traditionally, almost all CV types include a personal statement but there is some debate about whether you actually need to include one.

Some recruiters and careers advisers believe that personal profiles are one of the most important parts of a CV, as they provide an easily accessible overview of a candidate's ability, while others feel that personal statements are a waste of valuable space and time.

The latter belief is often the case with graduate CVs, as some employers feel that those just stepping onto the career ladder don't necessarily have enough knowledge or experience to warrant a personal statement. Because of this, a graduate's personal profile runs the risk of being bland and generic and stating things that should be a given, such as, 'I'm hardworking and organised,' which is why some recruiters believe that they are best suited to more senior CVs.

So while your CV doesn't need a personal statement, employers spend only seconds looking at application documents. With this in mind, a CV personal statement gives you an invaluable opportunity to make your application stand out as quickly as possible.

Alex believes 'that a CV personal statement is a good idea, because employers often have so many CVs to read through and the personal statement, if clear and concise, can elevate your chances of getting through to the next stage of the recruitment process.'

If you'd like to include a personal statement on your CV it might be best, as a graduate, to focus on your educational background and the career path you'd like to embrace. If you have relevant experiences use these to make your personal statement unique. 'If you haven’t got much work experience, focus on what experience you can extract from your degree,' advises Alex. 'If you have taken part in various projects demonstrate what your role was. Alternatively, if you have written a dissertation, showcase your topic and what skills you have developed from this experience. Employers will value your individuality even if you haven't had masses of practical work experience.'

If you're struggling to give it context and get it right, make an appointment with your university's careers or employability service and ask an adviser to help you hone your writing. 

What should I include in my CV personal profile?

In terms of length, a CV personal profile should be no longer than 150 words. 'It should be short, impactful and aligned effectively with the CV content,' explains David Ainscough, careers consultant team lead and deputy director at the University of Cambridge.

'A personal CV profile should include details of your educational background, evidence of work experience, as well as your career aspirations. You ideally need to ensure you are telling the reader what you can offer skill-wise and don't be afraid to also share any accomplishments,' adds Alex.  

If you're struggling with what to write, break your personal statement down into three parts. Focus on:

• who you are
• what you can offer
• your career aims.

Start by introducing yourself. For example, 'A recent graduate with a 2:1 in English literature from the Hillview University' or a 'Highly-skilled physiotherapist with five years’ experience…'

Next, detail what you can offer the company. Ask yourself why you're suited to the role and cover any relevant skills or experience. If you lack practical work experience instead draw attention to your academic achievements, such as contributing to university publications, which developed written communication, attention to detail and teamworking skills. Or how you applied skills learned on your physical therapy degree during your time as a physio assistant for university sport teams.

Conclude your personal statement by highlighting your career goals. For example, 'I am looking to start my career in the exciting world of publishing and to develop the skills learned through my university studies and internships.'

It's up to you how you present this information; there is no hard and fast rule. However, personal statements are generally displayed as a single paragraph, without a title or subheading. You'll need to keep it consistent with the rest of your CV formatting, meaning that the font size and type will need to be the same throughout your document.

Also, consider the voice and tense you'd like to use. Personal statements can be written in either the first or third person, but you'll need to maintain this voice throughout - don't switch between the two.

Take a look at  how to write a CV .

How can I make it stand out to employers?

• 'Remember that first impressions count so make sure you're giving the recruiter a comfortable reading experience. Layout and clarity are crucial,' says David.
• Tailor your CV personal statement (and CV in general) to each application.
• Be honest. Untruths are easy to uncover and lying on your CV is a criminal offence.
• Provide evidence of skills and experience but remember to keep it brief. For example, 'experienced event manager, who led a team to organise a charity ball for 150 people, raising £5,000 - a 20% increase on previous years.'
• Use the job description to help form your CV personal profile.
• Stick to the word limit.
• Check for spelling and grammar mistakes. The personal summary sits at the top of your CV so any errors will be immediately apparent.
• 'Keep it fresh. It needs to be reviewed in each application you make so consider something new to say each time,' adds David.
• Read it aloud once you've finished writing to make sure it flows.
• Copy and paste from your  cover letter or from online CV personal statement examples. Your personal summary needs to be unique and personal to you.
• Include unnecessary personal information such as your age, marital status etc.
• Use clichés, slang or jargon.
• Use bland, empty statements like 'I work well independently and as part of a team'. This tells employers absolutely nothing about what you’re capable of.
• Overuse buzzwords.
• Include quotes from previous employers.
• Ramble. Recruiters don't have time to read through waffle, so get to the point.

Think about the connotations of the words you use - 'currently studying' implies things might change, 'trying' implies failure, 'might' or 'maybe' sounds like you're not sure. The words you use have power so choose them carefully. You want to sound confident, positive and enthusiastic.

Find out more about the  top 7 CV mistakes .

CV personal statement examples

To help you get started take a look at the following CV personal profile examples.

As a recent graduate from the University of Townville, with a 2:1 honours degree in marketing, I have undertaken internships at industry-leading agencies such as Beyond Imagination and Noah Freemans. These placements have allowed me to develop sector knowledge and gain hands on experience, as well as expand transferable skills such as commercial awareness, communication and negotiation and analytical skills. My career aim is to gain a role which allows me to further my expertise and take on increased responsibility at a market-leading digital marketing agency.

I am a highly motivated 2:1 forensic science graduate from Groveshire University, looking to secure a graduate position that enables me to use and develop my analytical, attention to detail and communication skills. I have gained relevant experience in both scientific and hospital laboratories, which allowed me to build on my problem solving, concentration and team working skills. My career goal is to assume a role that enables me to analyse and interpret forensic data and to eventually move into crime scene investigation.

Remember; avoid copying and pasting ready-made examples. Instead use them as a guide to craft your own, tailored CV personal statement. Take a look at our  example CVs .

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Personal Statements: Examples, Do's and Don'ts

As the name suggests, a personal statement is unique to everyone, but that does not mean there are not specific personal statement rules and guidelines to follow. Being able to quickly showcase your skills, personality and job fit can be challenging, so we are here to shed some light on structuring a personal statement that’ll make you stand out from the crowd. 

In this guide, we will be looking at how to write a personal statement and the do’s and don’ts. By the end, you should have a better idea of how to structure a personal statement and impress your potential new employers.

💡 Note: We will be covering professional personal statements and not personal statements for University admissions in this article.

What is a personal statement?

Often confused with a cover letter or supporting statement, a personal statement is a small section on various forms of CVs. A personal statement is often no more than a few sentences where you can quickly summarise your skills, experience and job fit into a bitesize paragraph. 

A personal statement gives you the opportunity to briefly sell yourself to your potential employer and showcase why you are the best candidate for the role. It is important to note that not all employers will require a personal statement, but if done correctly they can help set you apart from other applicants. 

What makes a good personal statement? 

As a personal statement is essentially a summary of the rest of your CV and you as a person, you want to ensure you list all the most important things from your CV that are the most relevant to the job you are applying for. You should never use the same personal statement, when applying for multiple jobs you can use a similar statement for each, but it should be tailored to each individual role if possible. 

How to start a personal statement 

Start your personal statement by introducing yourself and set the tone for the rest of your personal statement.

You want to capture the employer’s interest and summarise exactly why you are a perfect fit for the role. Most personal statement examples start with saying the role you are currently in, how much industry experience you have and key achievements or relevant skills and statistics. 

How to finish a personal statement 

A good way to finish your personal statement is to summarise your overall goal or aim when moving forwards towards this job and your career.  This means you have spoken about the past, present and future, in just a few lines and gives the employer a good idea of you and your potential. 

How to finish a personal statement can vary from role to role, but this is a good rule of thumb and will stand you in good stead, as with any application, tailor it to the job, some may call for this, some may not.

Personal statement do’s

• Tailor your personal statement - utilise the job description to help you highlight exactly what the employer is looking for, highlight the skills and experience it calls for. The job description is the blueprint to your personal statement for that role, so try and signpost your abilities from the exact things the employer is looking for.
• Be concise - ensure that you keep your personal statement short and relevant, aim for the maximum of a few lines or around 200 words at most. Find the most important and relevant things that you can say within that word count.
• Highlight you - candidates have a habit of being too generic and not showcasing themselves, it is called a personal statement, so keep it personal to you. Personal does not mean talking about your dog though, but how you personally can succeed at this job.
• Include tangibles - always try to give additional details that add value to your application, for instance, quantifying something always makes it sound better. ‘Increased sales by 35%’ sounds better than just saying ‘increased sales’.
• Hit key points - a good personal statement will be able to give the employer a quick summary of you and entice them to read more or move you forward to the interview stage.
• Get a second opinion - having someone else read over your personal statement can be a real help, they may spot something you haven’t or not understand something the way you had intended. This will help improve your finished personal statement.  

Personal statement don’ts

• Use the same wording - you can actually hurt your own chances if you use an overly generic personal statement. You want to show that you have put effort into your application and impress the employer.
• Make it too long - candidates will often confuse their personal statement with a cover letter, this is a short rundown of you, focus on skills, successes, and statistics, things that can be quickly digested. Grab their attention with your personal statement, but do not bore them with an essay.
• Go too personal - this may sound strange, but remember you are writing a professional application, and not setting up a dating profile. Focus on what you can bring to the company, and how your skills would be perfect for the role.
• Send off your first draft - always read over your personal statement a few times to make sure it flows right and rolls off the tongue. Having a spelling or grammar mistake can ruin your chances of getting the job.
• Be too broad - showing that you understood the job description and are a good candidate for the role can be evident if you have a good personal statement, but being too broad will make you look like you copy and pasted the same response to 20 applications.

What next? 

Now you have a better understanding on how to structure your personal statement to increase your chances of getting your new role, you want to start your job search . Currently at Michael Page, we have over 10,000 live jobs on the site so submit your CV today to become discoverable for new roles added in your industry. 

For more CV and cover letter advice , read through our collective library of articles that’ll help you create a winning CV. 

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25+ Best CV Personal Profile Examples with Writing Guide

Home » Resume Help » 25+ Best CV Personal Profile Examples with Writing Guide

A personal profile is your chance to stand out from the crowd. It’s your opportunity to tell a story about yourself and why you would be an excellent choice for a new job. The good news is that it can be easy with just a little bit of planning and creative thinking.

If you can learn how to write a CV Personal Profile , you’ll never be left wanting in terms of getting a job.

What is a CV personal profile?

A profile is the first page of your CV. It’s an introduction to your personal skills and achievements. It’s incredibly important because it sets the scene for everything that follows, including your experience and education. Although it’s a brief opening remark, you still need to ensure that you’re noted as being someone who is strong-willed, has a positive attitude, and knows how to interact with others. Think of your personal profile as a small monologue. It’s your chance to say who you are and what you want. You’re going to be judged on the content of this page so pay close attention to what you write, even if it only takes a few minutes.

What do I need to share in my personal profile?

First, think about who is this CV for? Is it for an employer or a potential employer? If it’s for an employer, make sure that the information is tailored to them. If it’s for a potential employer, make sure that they know what your skills are and what you want to achieve.

Second, think about the job you’re applying to. Think about cover letters and job advertisements (and the way that they’re used). Make sure that your personal profile is consistent with this.

Third, think about yourself as a person. Once you’ve done this, consider what makes you different from other applicants? What sets you apart? This might be framed in terms of skills or personality or both. If you can answer these questions, it’ll be easier to craft something that is concise and powerful.

How should I lay out my CV Personal Profile?

Try to keep it simple. Focus on the key skills and attributes that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. You can even tell a story about why you’re suitable for the position. This is easy if you have a chronological format (it’s basically a brief version of your CV).

If you have a functional format, it’s still possible to tell a meaningful story. You might start by explaining what you achieved in your previous job or for your degree. Then, describe why you were able to achieve this (your skills and experience). Finally, think about how this relates to the role you’re applying for now.

If you’re starting to get lost, keep it simple, and don’t try to over-think it. What you write will help show that you are friendly, hard-working, and responsible. It will show that you are ambitious and eager to learn.

Here are some tips for writing the CV Personal Profile:

• Narrow down your skills and experiences to key points. These can all be in a list or bullets towards the end of your personal profile. But keep it simple and don’t bore the reader with too much detail.
• Speak to your current and former employers/colleagues. Ask them what impressed them most about you, what you did that worked well for them and what they’d like to see more of from you next time around. This helps draw on real-life examples of your skills and experiences.
• It’s best to be honest about the things that have gone wrong in your past but try not to dwell on the negative ones too much as those won’t help you stand out from the crowd. However, it’s important to be realistic about the kind and the quality of work you achieve.
• Give a brief summary of why you’re looking for a new job, what skills and experiences you have that make you a good fit for the role, what motivates you to succeed and what your objectives are. Then give links where they can be found.
• Give details about any other voluntary or paid positions that show a mix of skills and experience. If you have used your skills and expertise to help those less fortunate than yourself then include these as well.
• Be sure to include some personal details about yourself too, such as your hobbies, interests and any languages you speak fluently. If you have any special training or accreditations then make a note of those too.
• Check out our examples of good CV template for your reference. Also use our free CV builder .
• Finally, make sure that includes a little bit of luck and destiny on your side. Tell the reader what made you perfect for the job you’re applying for and why they should hire you.

There are a few things to remember when writing your personal profile:

• Don’t be afraid to be creative in telling your story. It might just work to give the reader a little more information about you than they thought possible. If not, then it could just make you stand out from the crowd.
• Be honest. Be truthful about your abilities and your past work. Don’t try to cover up the things that haven’t gone well or that you might not want to flaunt. If you’re willing to take risks then this could just make you stand out from the crowd.
• Be confident. Think about what makes you a great person and why others would want to be around you when they read your personal profile. Tell your story with conviction.

How long should my profile statement be?

If you’re using a functional format, then it should be 1-2 pages (although it might be shorter if you’re applying to a role that doesn’t require much detail). If you’re using a chronological format, then it should be the same length as your CV.

What is a CV Profile Statement?

A CV profile statement is a short statement that explains why you are applying for the role. The main purpose of a CV profile statement is to show the employer why you’re especially qualified or skilled for the position. While your CV provides information about your work experience, education and training, and skills, your profile statement emphasizes the most important aspects of who you are as a person.

What should I avoid when I write a CV Personal Profile?

Don’t ramble on in your personal profile about the job or the company or anything else unrelated to them. This will make you look confused and irrelevant. It will also make you seem arrogant or even disinterested.

It’s also important not to try too hard to be something that you’re not. If you’re applying for a highly skilled position then put yourself forward as being highly skilled. Don’t make it about things that are unimportant (like your nationality or your religious beliefs). Generally speaking, try to stick to the facts and avoid too much embellishment or exaggeration. Be honest and realistic above all else.

What else should I know?

One final thing to remember is that you can’t change your personal profile once it’s published. Make sure you are completely happy with what you write. That way, you can avoid a lot of stress and anxiety further down the line. This will ensure that you can then focus on the more important things (like actually getting the job).

If your CV template is well-written and your personal profile is well-crafted, then getting a job should be a relatively smooth process. It’ll be a positive experience overall because you have proven to yourself and your new employer that you can do a great job. Good luck with the job hunt!

Check our absolutely free CV examples for your reference.

25+ Best CV Profile Examples:

Here is the list of best job-winning personal CV profile examples for your reference.

1. Student CV profile

Enthusiastic and hardworking freshly graduated accounting student with proven organizational and communication skills, who is able to take on any required task and adapt to changing conditions with a resourceful and hard-working mindset. My professionalism and accuracy are proven in numerous assignments and group projects throughout undergraduate courses and activities.

2. Customer service representative CV profile

Hello, good day! my name is Intan Ryan and I’m 26 years old. I’m about to finish my bachelor’s degree journey in November 2019 and am about to seek a new job to gain experience. I am visionary, intuitive, emphatic, and creative. I have experience in retail sales and teaching experience during my internship. I hope my personality and experience fulfill the company criteria and love to see them during the interview. Thank you very much for spending time reading my humble introduction.

3. Customer success manager CV profile

Highly motivated Telco professional with excellent client oversight, issue resolution, and relationship-building skills. Seeking a career that is challenging & interesting and lets me work on the leading areas of technology, a job that gives me opportunities to learn, innovate and enhance my skills and strength in conjunction with company goals & objectives.

4. Human resource CV profile

I am highly motivated and goal-driven, competitive, flexible, resilient, focused on customer needs, team player with a proactive attitude. I’m looking for a next challenge in the field of Human Resources with scope for professional development.

5. IT CV profile

I’m a high-potential and high-achiever. I’m a fast learner and a motivated worker. I enjoy working autonomously and always produce the best possible work. I take on challenges head-on, challenge them first and then implement the solution. I am always able to make quick decisions in emergency situations.

6. Manager CV profile

I’m a hardworking leader who looks for opportunities to create more and better results, with creativity and teamwork. I’m passionate about my role as a leader and committed to providing high-quality support to my team. I’ve worked in many different roles across multiple sectors covering the full range of HR functions including recruiting, people, training and development, etc.

7. Sales CV profile

As a marketer, I’m able to create an authentic connection with my customers. I’m able to make them feel confident in my product and up-sell it in ways they didn’t expect. As a sales professional, I am trained in the art of sales, negotiations, and problem-solving. I am also very determined; when there is a customer that requires help or assistance, I will find the best possible way to do it.

8. Accountant CV profile

I am a practicing accountant who has been working for many years in finance and taxation. I specialize in general accounting, taxation, payroll, and corporate accounting. I am a hardworking individual who is motivated to succeed. I have comprehensive knowledge and expertise in tax computation, accounting, bookkeeping, and reporting.

9. Marketing CV profile

I am an experienced and well-trained marketing professional. I am able to perform a variety of tasks in the marketing department including SEO, social media, advertising, copywriting, emailing, and so on. I have a wide range of skills from my experience and I’m looking to use them in a new role.

10. Doctor CV profile

I am a medical professional with vast experience in nursing, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy. I have over 3 years of working experience and have gained valuable expertise. I have worked in various regions including London, Manchester, Lancaster, and Durham.

11. Nurse CV profile

I am a committed and hardworking Registered Nurse with over 5 years of professional experience. I possess extensive knowledge of general nursing, clinical procedure, medical terminology, medical conditions, etc. I have numerous transferable skills from my work experiences and a variety of responsibilities.

12. Accounts Payroll CV profile

I’m a qualified accountant with over 15 years of practical experience in personal, company, and corporation accounts. I work with financial institutions and private clients as the main accountancy officer. I have multiple transferable skills such as creating balance sheets, profit-loss statements, tax calculations, etc.

13. Finance CV profile

I’m a trained professional in financial planning and financial investing. I’ve spent many years working in the finance field, gaining experience and being trusted by clients with my financial knowledge. I’m passionate about my job and look forward to doing more work.

14. Sales Executive CV profile

I am a committed and hardworking professional who has acquired practical experience in multiple roles such as retail, selling, B2B, and so on. I have a strong sense of communication skills and have the ability to present myself as open, friendly, and sincere; in other words, I can demonstrate my expertise in sales

15. Scrum Master CV profile

I am experienced in the field of scrum development and I have completed a task. I possess excellent judgment and analytical skills. I understand the role of a scrum master well and can demonstrate my knowledge through my work.

16. Digital Marketing CV profile

I am an experienced professional in digital marketing. I have a wide knowledge of SEO, SMM, PPC, and email marketing. I’m an expert at running affiliate campaigns and can handle a variety of tasks with ease.

17. School teacher CV profile

I am a top-notch graduate. I am passionate about teaching and believe that education is very important. I always try my best to deliver the highest quality of learning to my students.

18. Software engineer CV profile

I am an experienced developer with years of experience in web development; from front end to back end. My technical skills are strong; I’m able to create amazing and cutting-edge websites with ease

19. Web Developer CV Profile

I’m a Web Developer and I have the ability to create a variety of websites for all types of clients. I am an expert in front-end development, back-end development, user experience, design, and marketing.

20. Programmer CV Profile

I am a senior programmer with over 20 years of experience in the programming field. I’ve worked with many different languages including C/C++, Java, and JavaScript. I’m also experienced in MySQL, HTML5, and CSS3.

21. Data analyst CV profile

I am a professional data analyst. I have gained extensive experience in data mining, predictive modeling, and statistical reporting. I have a background in applied mathematics and statistics.

22. Server administrator CV profile

I am an experienced server administrator with over 15 years of experience. I have the ability to install and configure servers, networks, and other IT equipment such as switches, routers, and firewalls. I’m able to follow procedures, set up security policies, and maintain network settings.

23. System architect CV Profile

I’m an experienced program manager with a vast understanding of IT architecture. I’ve worked in multiple projects which required me to manage and administer complex systems”; from security policies, user authentication, data definition and archive, configuration management, configuration synchronization, and many others.

24. IT manager CV Profile

I am an experienced IT manager with over 15 years of experience. I have worked in various countries and have gained valuable knowledge; from the IT sector, business management sector, and the human resource sector. I have multiple transferable skills such as leadership, communication skills, and teamwork

25. Business analyst CV Profile

I am a highly targeted and dedicated professional. I work hard to fulfill all my duties with ease. I take pride in my work, I understand the importance of my position and I maintain a positive attitude all the time

Frequently Asked Questions

The first step is to brainstorm ideas and think about the most important qualities you have to offer as a candidate. Try to focus on strengths that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Once you have a good understanding of what you have to offer, you can start to craft your personal profile. When writing your personal profile, be sure to include: 1. An overview of your professional experience 2. Your skills and qualifications 3. Your achievements 4. Your goals and aspirations 5. Your personal interests

When writing your personal profile, be sure to include: An overview of your professional experience 1. Your skills and qualifications 2. Your achievements 3. Your goals and aspirations 4. Your personal interests

There are a few things you can do to make your personal profile stand out, including: Use strong language to describe your skills and experience Highlight your unique qualifications Mention any awards or recognition you have received Share your professional goals

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when writing your personal profile, including: 1. Don’t use clichés or overused phrases 2. Avoid listing your entire work history 3. Don’t include personal information that is not relevant to the job 4. Don’t make up information or exaggerate your qualifications

Here are a few tips for writing a successful CV personal profile: Use strong language to describe your skills and experience Highlight your unique qualifications Mention any awards or recognition you have received Share your professional goals Keep it brief – your personal profile should be no more than 4-5 sentences

Your CV personal profile should be no more than 4-5 sentences.

If you don’t have much experience to include in your personal profile, you can focus on your qualifications and skills. You can also mention any relevant awards or recognition you have received.

In addition to your professional experience, skills, and qualifications, you can also include your goals and aspirations, as well as your personal interests.

Yes, you can use bullet points in your personal profile.

Here are a few examples of good CV personal profiles: 1. Experienced marketing professional with a proven track record of success in designing and executing creative marketing campaigns. Skilled in copywriting, email marketing, and social media marketing. 2. Highly motivated and driven individual with a strong work ethic and determination to succeed. Proven ability to work independently and take initiative. 3. Organized and detail-oriented professional with excellent time management skills. Able to juggle multiple tasks and priorities. 4. Creative and innovative thinker with a passion for problem-solving. Proven ability to generate new ideas and think outside the box.

Key Takeaways:

• Write a polished professional profile
• Review your accomplishments and experience
• Add keywords to demonstrate your skills, expertise, and areas of expertise
• Use formatting features for an eye catching resume
• Make sure to include the name, address, and phone number
• Make sure to provide a cover letter with your resume
• Tweak or edit the resume throughout the review process – you only have one chance!

Published by Sarah Samson

Sarah Samson is a professional career advisor and resume expert. She specializes in helping recent college graduates and mid-career professionals improve their resumes and format them for the modern job market. In addition, she has also been a contributor to several online publications.

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CV profile examples

If you want to land job interviews, you need an impressive CV profile.

Sitting at the top of your CV, it’s the first thing  recruiters will see – so it needs to pack a punch.

A weak CV profile will be ignored and result in your CV being skipped over – but a strong CV profile will ensure that employers notice your CV ; meaning more interviews for you.

So, I’ve put 25 winning CV profile examples below, plus templates you can copy and paste into your own CV.

CV profile example

CV templates 

Accounts & finance CV profile

Commercially astute CPA certified Accountant , with over 15 years’ experience of providing comprehensive high quality commercial finance and accounting support services to businesses across SE Asia, the Middle East and Australia within Global Travel Retail, Management Consultancy, Commodities, Mining, Energy, Financial Services and Telecommunications.

Utilising my expertise in finance and operational management, I have been pivotal to ensuring businesses under my control are equipped with the tools necessary to meet aggressive sales and growth plans. I am expert at financial analysis, forecasting, excel modelling, pricing strategies, identifying new market opportunities, and implementing internal controls to ensure adherence to compliance whilst minimising business risk.

• Commercial Finance
• Business Strategies
• Operational Excellence
• Transformation Programs
• Scenario Analysis
• Forecasting
• Risk Management
• Business Development
• Contract Negotiation
• Senior Stakeholder Management

Quick tip:  To get a head start on creating your own interview-winning CV, use one of our professional  CV templates .

Administrator CV profile

Confident and highly organised administrative professional with experience in busy office and reception environments, rapidly assimilating and learning processes applicable to in-house operations, consistently impressing employers which has resulted in fast-track advancement to more senior positions.

Meticulous in my approach to data collation and presentation. Experienced in setting up and maintaining records, incorporating critical information, and running high quality reports and analyses in the requisite style and format.

• Office Protocols & Procedures
• Report Writing
• Report Editing
• Account Creation
• Account Updates
• Information Management Systems
• Customer Relations
• Time Management
• Team Leadership
• Microsoft Office

Build your CV now 

Customer service CV profile

Diligent and enthusiastic client service specialist with 15+ years’ experience in customer-facing support roles within retail , telecommunications, and motor industries.

Exhibits a warm and welcoming demeanour, capable of understanding client needs to recommend suitable products and solutions. Shares a genuine enthusiasm for technology, making it easy to highlight the advantages of innovative products to customers and guide them in using them, resulting in high sales figures.

• Comprehensive Audio Knowledge
• Complaints Handling
• Conflict Resolution
• End User Training
• Ticketing Systems
• CRM Systems
• Quality Assurance
• Fluent in German & English

Check out our customer service CV example  , waiter/waitress CV example , best CV templates , CV UK format examples ,  care assistant CV  or Support worker CV

    Top tips for writing a CV profile

• Your CV profile is the first thing a recruiter or hiring manager will see when opening your CV, so it’s worth investing a lot of time and effort into it
• Give reader’s a high level overview of your skills and experience, and encourage them to read the rest of your CV
• Keep it short (5-8 lines) to ensure you get your message across quickly to time-strapped employers
• Avoid clichés such as “ Works well in a team ” or “ always goes the extra mile ” and focus on tangible industry specific content
• Give readers a reason to be interested in hiring you by describing the benefits you can bring to their company e.g. Will you boost their sales? Cut their spending? Take care of their customers?

Digital marketing CV personal profile

Accomplished E-commerce & Digital Marketing specialist with a proven track record in delivering consistent profit growth for business websites through high quality traffic and sales conversion.

With a focus on maximising client profitability through broad ranging digital marketing strategies and on-site optimisation, I have proven expertise in boosting commerce sales through a broad range of on-page and-off page methods. With extensive digital industry knowledge, I can engage diverse teams of specialists to deliver projects from across the e-commerce spectrum from running SO and content campaigns, through to PPC management and conversion optimisation.

• Content Marketing
• SEO Optimisation
• PPC Campaign Management
• Conversion Rate Optimisation
• Web Development
• Social Media Marketing
• Metrics & Analytics

Events manager CV profile

An accomplished, highly experienced, and Prince2 qualified Events Manager with a proven record of success in the administration, logistical planning, and smooth delivery of diverse events.

Adept in assessing and understanding the unique needs of each event and ensuring that the requirements of all stakeholders are effectively aligned and fulfilled. A calm and pragmatic negotiator capable of adapting to last minute change and who excels in leading projects from initial concept to completion, including creating the background operational processes which are critical to the success of large-scale high-profile events.

• Event Planning & Execution
• Adhering Budget Restrictions
• Live Televised Events
• Optimising ROI
• Operational Process Optimisation
• Media Management & Accreditation
• Resource & Logistical Planning
• Talent Management
• Corporate Partnering
• Collaboration & Negotiation

Check out my video guide on how to write a CV profile:

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Executive assistant CV profile

An exceptionally professional and accomplished executive assistant , with an impressive range of secretarial and office management skills applied across diverse sectors, including medical/health, legal and educational establishments.

Possessing the necessary secretarial, EA and clerical skills to not only hit the ground running, but initiate improvements to streamline operations within the office. Acting as first point of contact in person, by email and on the telephone, I employ my naturally friendly and helpful persona, engendering trust and going the extra mile to assist all colleagues and customers whom I support.

• Expert Secretarial Skills
• Digital Audio Typing
• Copy Typing
• Reception/ Meet & Greet
• Diary Management
• Switch Board Operation
• Transcribing Notes
• Confidentiality & Discretion
• Creating Records

Graduate CV profile (no experience)

A diligent and highly intelligent bi-lingual student currently enrolled on an LLB English and German Law Degree, already attaining high grades and embracing extra-curricular university activities and societies in support of course subject areas and personal interests.

Eager to absorb as much knowledge and insight as possible in the pursuance of my goals, I am seeking a reputable commercial law firm that offers open days, where I may shadow experienced legal experts to learn about the day-to-day operations and protocols within a professional practice.

• Complaints Resolution
• Negotiation Skills
• Debating Skills
• Diplomacy, Tact & Discretion
• Fluent in English & German
• Conversational French
• Shadowing Legal Cases

HR CV Profile

Bi-lingual triple masters qualified HR professional with over 2 years’ experience of providing exemplary HR operational support to businesses across FMCG, IT and retail for some of the world’s most recognised brands.

Utilising my in-depth knowledge of HR, Management, Health & Safety and Employment Law , I have been an exceptionally strong performer within HR Operational support. I have proven my ability to provide expert employee life cycle services across multiple departments, detailed guidance to managers and employees, to introduce administrative process improvements that have increased the accuracy and speed of reporting and industry research crucial to HR change initiatives and talent development.

• HR Administration
• Employment Law
• Employment Contracts
• Recruitment & Interviewing
• Payment Processing
• MI Reporting
• Compensation & Benefits
• Disciplinary Procedures

IT manager CV profile

Experienced IT Manager with 13 years of experience of managing the IT infrastructure within an educational establishment including server, desktop and network support.

Significant expertise in managing Windows Servers (MCSE-certified), Exchange, Dell Ranger. Hyper-V and VMware, as well as experience with managing technical projects through the full project life-cycle. Possesses a proven track-record of successfully implementing strategic solutions to meet changing business needs. Has the ability to build key relationships and communicate well with stakeholders.

• Windows Server Administration
• Network and Firewall Management
• Desktop Support
• Google Education
• Project Management
• Requirements Analysis
• Incident Management
• Change Management
• Troubleshooting

Managing director CV profile

Entrepreneurial director proven in his ability to enhance the operational efficiency, customer experience and ultimately profitability of businesses spanning the last 22 years. Has enjoyed supreme success during employment, for his start-up prestige car dealership and latterly for a cycle business which he sold having increased margin and doubled turnover during the last 7 years.

I am experienced in all aspects of the sales life cycle through the development of engaging integrated marketing campaigns, creating events, increasing e-Commerce sales, enhancing the value proposition with new services/products, and driving teams in the pursuit of customer excellence. I am currently completing my CMI Level 7 in Professional consulting to bolster my already proven ability as a successful business improvement specialist and I am positive I can procure transformational results for any business, irrelevant of industry.

• Operations Management
• Sales Forecasting
• Value Propositions
• Staff Development
• Customer Experience
• Event Management
• Financial Control

Marketing CV profile

Entrepreneurial marketing expert with a proven track record in running multimillion pound marketing campaigns and increasing market share for leading companies.

With over 25 years’ experience devising and delivering complex marketing strategies for large national brands as well as my own privately-owned business ventures; I have the knowledge and skills to grow customers bases rapidly and deliver significant growth results. My expertise spans all channels of marketing including online, print, social media and more which gives me a holistic approach and ensures I explore all avenues in the pursuit of attracting target market to any organisation.

• National B2C Marketing Strategies
• SEO On & Off Page
• Social Media Campaigns
• CIM Qualified
• Budget Management
• Print Campaigns
• Campaign Management

Nurse CV profile

A qualified and highly accomplished Registered Nurse with 30+ years’ experience within community nursing, residential homes, and hospital environments, providing a comprehensive range of medical functions and palliative/ acute case attendance, solely responsible for correct administration of drugs and treatments.

With a passion for not only planning and providing treatment programmes but for taking a holistic view of patient wellbeing, I astutely observe and assess needs, contacting the best organisations to address identified issues from my network of professional contacts.

• Community, Residential & Hospitals
• Knowledge of Diverse Illnesses
• IV/Cannula Insertion
• Pressure Ulcers & Applying Dressing
• Chemotherapy
• End of Life Care Specialist
• Creating Treatment Plans
• Healthcare Legislations
• Observing, Assessing & Recording
• Liaison with Professional Network

Procurement CV profile

Hugely experienced purchasing, stock control, and logistics specialist with an exemplary career spanning the last 20 years for a national tile supplier and latterly an international lighting and design company.

Utilising my end-to-end experience of the supply chain , I have been pivotal to operational enhancements in stock control and purchase that have maximised ROI. I have implemented procedures to reduce variance, upskilled staff on handling to minimise loss, and liaised cross-functionally to maintain sufficient levels of goods to meet consumer demands while balancing business needs to minimise warehouse holding costs. The hallmark of my work is developing and sustaining relationships with suppliers, distributors, and internal staff to ensure the day-to-day operations of any business under my supervision operate at maximum capability.

• Purchasing & Procurement
• Inventory Management
• Variance Analysis
• Supply Chain Management
• Sales/ Operational Planning
• Quality Control
• Warehouse Management
• Stock Takes/Auditing

Project manager CV profile

A results-driven project manager with 3 years of experience in successfully leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget. Exceptional in strategic planning, risk management, and problem-solving, I thrive in dynamic environments. Proficient in project management tools and methodologies, I ensure streamlined workflows and clear communication. My dedication to quality, combined with strong leadership and adaptability, enables me to drive project success while fostering collaborative, high-performing teams.

• Project Planning and Scheduling
• Budgeting and Cost Control
• Scope Definition and Management
• Resource Allocation
• Stakeholder Communication
• Quality Assurance and Control
• Agile/Scrum Methodologies
• Data Analysis and Reporting

Sales CV profile

A dynamic and results-oriented sales professional with a proven track record of exceeding targets. With 2 years in the sales industry, I specialise in building strong client relationships and identifying opportunities for revenue growth. Proficient in consultative selling, I understand customer needs and offer tailored solutions. Skilled in negotiation, objection handling, and closing deals, I consistently deliver outstanding sales performance. My passion for achieving targets and my dedication to providing exceptional customer experiences define my approach to sales.

• Prospecting and Lead Generation
• Objection Handling
• Consultative Selling
• Competitive Analysis
• Sales Process Management
• Sales Analytics
• Market Research
• Contract Negotiation and Management
• B2B or B2C Sales Strategies

Supply chain CV profile

A results-driven supply chain professional with 8 years of experience in optimising logistics, procurement, and inventory management processes. Proficient in streamlining supply chain operations, reducing costs, and improving efficiency. Skilled in demand forecasting, vendor relations, and strategic sourcing to ensure uninterrupted product flow. Adept at implementing lean principles and utilising data analytics for informed decision-making. My commitment to continuous improvement, combined with strong problem-solving abilities, enables me to drive supply chain excellence and meet organisational objectives.

• Lean Six Sigma
• Analytics Tools: Excel, Tableau
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Regulatory Compliance
• International Trade and Customs
• Kaizen, TQM
• Procurement and Purchasing
• Demand Forecasting
• Supplier Relationship Management

Teacher CV profile

A dedicated and passionate teacher with 3 years of experience at Secondary School level. Committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment, I inspire and empower students to achieve their full potential. Proficient in curriculum development, lesson planning, and classroom management, I tailor educational strategies to individual needs. Skilled in utilising technology for interactive and engaging lessons. With a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration, I aim to instil a lifelong love of learning in my students while maintaining high academic standards.

• Curriculum Development
• Lesson Planning
• Classroom Management
• Differentiated Instruction
• SEND Strategies
• Behaviour Management
• Individualised Education Plans
• Data Analysis for Student Progress
• Assessment for Learning
• Classroom Adaptation

Teaching assistant CV profile

A dedicated and compassionate teaching assistant with 5 years of experience providing invaluable support in diverse classroom settings. Committed to promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment, I work collaboratively with educators to meet the unique needs of each student. Proficient in implementing instructional plans, managing classroom logistics, and offering one-on-one assistance to students. Skilled in adapting to various learning styles and needs, I foster academic and personal growth while maintaining a safe and nurturing atmosphere. My passion for education and unwavering dedication to student success drives my work as a teaching assistant.

• Behaviour Intervention Strategies
• Literacy and Numeracy Support
• Inclusive Teaching Practices
• Sensory Integration Techniques
• Team Collaboration with Teachers
• Small Group Instruction
• Special Education Support
• Lesson Support
• Assisting with Curriculum
• Adaptation for Diverse Learners

Chef CV profile

A seasoned and innovative chef with a passion for creating exquisite culinary experiences. With 4 years of expertise in diverse cuisines, I excel in crafting and executing menus that delight palates. Proficient in kitchen management, food preparation, and presentation, I prioritise quality ingredients and culinary artistry. Skilled in leading kitchen teams to maintain high standards of food production. Committed to innovation, I continually explore new flavours and techniques to elevate the dining experience. My dedication to quality, consistency, and creativity defines my culinary journey.

• Food Safety and Sanitation
• Menu Planning
• Ingredient Selection and Sourcing
• Recipe Development
• Flavour Profiling
• Plating and Presentation
• Food Cost Management
• Kitchen Management
• Culinary Creativity and Innovation

Business analyst CV profile

A results-oriented business analyst with experience in leveraging data-driven insights to drive strategic business decisions. Proficient in analysing complex data sets, identifying trends, and developing actionable recommendations. Skilled in requirement gathering , process improvement, and stakeholder communication to enhance operational efficiency. Adept at translating business needs into technical solutions and collaborating across cross-functional teams. My commitment to delivering data-driven solutions and fostering innovation aligns seamlessly with organisational goals, making me a valuable asset in driving business growth and efficiency.

• SWOT Analysis
• SQL and Database Querying
• Business Process Modelling
• Data Analysis and Interpretation
• Statistical Analysis & Data Mining
• Cost-Benefit Analysis
• Data Visualisation
• Business Intelligence Tools
• UML and Flowcharting

Support worker CV profile

Dedicated and compassionate support worker with 7+ years’ expertise in nurturing teenagers and the elderly. Proficient in delivering top-tier care, fostering individual growth, and tailoring healthcare plans to unique needs. Adept at cultivating strong client bonds through collaborative efforts and liaising with community and local authority teams. Committed to upholding integrity, adhering to policies, and prioritising clients’ well-being for effective support delivery.

• Assessment and Care Planning
• Household Management
• Client Advocacy
• Safeguarding
• Health Monitoring
• Mobility Assistance
• Crisis Intervention
• Record Keeping and Documentation

Estate agent CV profile

A seasoned estate agent with experience in the real estate market. Dedicated to helping clients navigate the property buying and selling process with ease. Proficient in market analysis, property valuation, and contract negotiation, I offer expert guidance to secure optimal deals. Skilled in property marketing and showcasing, I leverage technology and creative strategies to attract buyers and sellers. Committed to providing exceptional customer service, I build trust-based relationships while ensuring a seamless and satisfying real estate experience for my clients.

• Real Estate Market Knowledge
• Property Valuation
• Market Analysis
• Property Marketing
• Client Acquisition
• MLS Proficiency
• CRM Software
• Negotiation and Persuasion
• Property Inspection

Graphic designer CV profile

A creative and detail-orientated graphic designer with a passion for visual storytelling. With 5 years of experience in translating ideas into captivating designs, I excel in bringing brands to life through innovative concepts. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and skilled in creating logos, branding materials, print and digital collateral. Adept at collaborating with clients to understand their vision and deliver compelling visual solutions. I thrive on challenges, adhere to deadlines, and continuously seek to elevate the aesthetic appeal of every project.

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Branding and Logo Design
• Web and Digital Design
• Colour Theory
• RGC AND CMYK
• Digital Technology (HTML, CSS, JS
• Typography and Font Management
• Website Graphics
• 2D & 3D Modelling

Student CV profile

Motivated young professional with an exemplary academic record and passion to progress within the financial industry.

Having achieved excellent grades at GCSE level maths, English and science, along with an active involvement in several clubs and societies, I am keen to pursue a career in the finance industry. I have a proven aptitude for mathematics and have several notable achievements in both my studies and extra-curricular activities which would make me an excellent asset to any finance team or department. My part time roles and volunteer work have also provided me with a range of workplace skills such as relationship building, communication and team work.

• 8 A-C GCSE Grades
• Charity Events Volunteer
• Mathematical Aptitude
• Maths Club Lead Tutor
• Customer Facing Experience
• Best Science Student Award 2015

Architect CV profile

An innovative and detail-oriented architect with years of experience shaping visionary designs into reality. Specialising in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, I bring passion and expertise to every project. Proficient in architectural software and CAD, I excel in drafting, rendering, and project management. Adept at collaborating with clients, contractors, and interdisciplinary teams, I ensure the seamless execution of projects. My commitment to sustainable design principles and a deep appreciation for both form and function consistently result in outstanding architectural solutions that exceed expectations.

• 3D Modelling and Rendering
• Structural Analysis
• Drafting and Blueprint Creation
• Building Codes and Regulations
• Architectural Design
• Site and Landscape Design
• CAD Standards and Management
• Conceptual Design Development
• Project Scheduling and Planning

How to write a CV profile

Crafting an engaging CV profile (sometimes called a personal statement ) is the key to catching the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.

Here’s how you can create a captivating CV profile that showcases your strengths and stands out from the crowd.

Tailor to Your Target Jobs

One of the most effective ways to grab a recruiter’s attention is by tailoring your CV profile to the specific job you are applying for.

This means doing a bit of homework on the company and understanding what they are looking for in a candidate.

Look at the job description and highlight the key skills and experiences they value, then ensure these elements are prominently featured in your profile.

For instance, if the job requires project management skills , make sure to mention your relevant experience and achievements in that area. This tailored approach will show recruiters that that you are a good fit for their needs.

Provide a brief overview only

Your CV profile should give a succinct yet comprehensive overview of your skills and experience, but it needs to be short and sharp ; think of it as your professional elevator pitch.

Summarise your core competencies and significant achievements that align with the job requirements in a few sentences that can be quickly read by busy recruiters, and save the detail for the rest of your CV.

Providing a clear snapshot of your abilities helps recruiters quickly understand what you bring to the table, making it easier for them to see your potential as a candidate.

Sell Yourself

Your CV profile is your chance to sell yourself to potential employers. It’s important to convey not just what you’ve done, but how well you’ve done it.

Use strong, confident language to describe your accomplishments and make sure to quantify your successes where possible.

For example, instead of saying “ experienced in sales, ” say “ an accomplished salesman who increased sales by 20% within six months. ”

This not only shows your capability but also demonstrates your value in concrete terms. Don’t be shy about highlighting your achievements – this is your opportunity to shine.

Show the Impact You Make for Employers

Employers are interested in candidates who can make a real impact. Use your CV profile to showcase the positive outcomes of your work.

Did you streamline a process that saved your company time and money? Did you lead a team to achieve record-breaking results?

Including specific examples of how you’ve made a difference in your previous roles can make a strong impression. Highlighting your impact shows that you’re not just doing your job, but excelling at it and bringing added value to your employers.

Avoid Generic Cliches

While it’s important to highlight your strengths, steer clear of generic cliches that don’t add value to your CV profile. Phrases like “ hardworking,” “team player ,” and “ results-oriented ” are overused, meaningless and can make your profile blend in with countless others.

Instead, focus on specific achievements and unique skills that set you apart. If you have a knack for solving complex problems, mention a particular challenge you overcame. If you have a unique skill set, such as bilingual communication or advanced technical expertise, make sure it’s prominently featured. By avoiding cliches and providing concrete examples, you can create a more compelling and memorable CV profile.

In summary, a well-crafted CV profile that is tailored to your target job, provides a clear overview of your skills and experience, confidently sells your abilities, showcases your impact, and avoids generic cliches can significantly enhance your chances of catching a recruiter’s eye and landing your desired job.

See also: Resume summary examples Australia

Dos and don'ts of resume personal statements

A good personal statement can make your resume catch a recruiter's eye. We'll show you how to write a solid personal statement highlighting your unique skills, experiences, and professional goals. Whatever career stage you're in, we've got you covered. Read on to find information on the topic, resume personal statement examples, and helpful tips to help you stand out in the job market.

• What is a personal statement?
• Key elements to include in a personal statement
• Personal statement examples
• Tips on writing a personal statement for your resume
• Formatting and structuring your statement
• Common mistakes when writing a personal statement
• Bottom line

What is a personal statement?  

Think of a personal statement as a quick snapshot of yourself on your resume. It's a brief section that tells employers what kind of employee you are. Sometimes, it's also called resume objectives or CV personal statement.

The personal statement shows your goals and what makes you unique. It can be used to show how your skills, experiences, and job goals make you stand out from other applicants. This can significantly affect how the employer sees you as a potential employee.

It's your chance to add personality, passion, and purpose to your resume. You can make an impression that will make you shine during your job search.

Key elements to include in a personal statement  

To make a great resume summary, remember these important points that help a hiring manager understand who you are professionally:

• Who you are: Start by briefly saying who you are. Give a short but clear summary of your work background.
• Summary of your experiences : Give a brief outline of your career. Focus on crucial turning points, accomplishments, and related experiences. This part overviews your career path and shows how broad or deep your knowledge is.
• Your value as an employee: Explain what makes you special. Talk about the skills, qualities, and experiences that make you different from others applying for the job. Show how your experience matches the company's needs and how you can help them succeed.
• Your career objectives : At the end of your resume objective statement, list your career goals and ambitions. Make your short and long-term career goals clear. This shows that you're committed to professional growth and development.

Personal statement examples  

A good personal statement can be an important part of shaping your career, whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced professional. Here are some examples of personal statements from different career stages. They show off relevant skills, experiences, and goals of job seekers.

Personal statement examples for students looking for internships

"I am a driven undergraduate student majoring in marketing, seeking internship opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. I have a proven ability to develop client relationships and execute marketing strategies. I am ready to share new thoughts and learn from people with more experience."

"Dedicated undergraduate student studying mechanical engineering, looking for an internship opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects. Skilled with CAD tools and has experience making prototypes. Possesses strong critical thinking skills and takes the necessary steps to solve problems. Excellent collaborator who is always looking to learn and improve."

Personal statement example for fresh graduates

"I am a recent finance bachelor's degree holder with a solid grasp of financial principles and robust analytic abilities. I have operated effectively in dynamic settings and provided precise financial analysis. I am seeking an entry-level role in financial analysis to utilise my academic knowledge and contribute to organisational success."

"Highly motivated human resource management graduate who is deeply committed to cultivating positive work environments. Proficient in employee relations, performance management, and recruitment. Seeking an HR position to implement academic knowledge and acquire practical experience."

Personal statement examples for working professionals

"I am an experienced sales manager with more than five years of experience in B2B sales. I am currently looking to resume my professional career. I have a proven history of exceeding sales goals, building strong relationships with clients, and establishing vital client leads. I am looking for a challenging sales manager position where I can use my leadership skills to coach a team of top performers and make the company more profitable."

"I am an accomplished project manager with a background in information technology. I am skilled at coordinating the efforts of diverse teams to complete challenging assignments on schedule and within budget. I have consistently reduced risk and guaranteed project success. I am seeking new opportunities to apply my project management expertise in a dynamic environment."

Personal statement example for workers making mid-career transitions

"Experienced marketer ready to move into digital advertising. Skilled in both digital and conventional marketing tactics, with a particular focus on expanding brands' reach and interaction via online media. Seeks a position to use marketing talents to create modern digital advertising strategies."

"I am a project manager with extensive experience, with a career goal to work in sustainable development. I am passionate about positively affecting society and comfortable in a fast-paced environment. I have expertise at working with stakeholders and planning strategically."

Tips on writing a personal statement for your resume  

Before you start writing your statement, think about the following tips.

Selecting the most impactful experiences to share

Carefully choose which experiences to highlight in your CV personal statement. Consider the following aspects to guarantee that you demonstrate the most effective ones:

• Relevance to job scope: Select experiences and relevant qualifications that directly relate to the needs of your desired role.
• Significance of results: Highlight experiences in which you achieved substantial results. Focus on your efforts and accomplishments.
• Business impact: Show how your work has increased the company's profits. Give numbers to support your results and explain how your work has helped the group succeed or grow.

Demonstrating problem-solving and leadership through past scenarios

In your resume personal statement, use examples from your past to show how you've solved problems and led others .

Try to give an example of your problem and how you solved it. Highlight situations when you were proactive, made tough choices, and helped others succeed.

Demonstrating that you can deal with problems and lead confidently shows you're ready for new tasks in your next job.

Keeping your personal statement concise

Write a short, clear, objective statement to help you hold the reader's attention. Here are some suggestions to help you keep your resume personal statement short:

• Editing: Carefully read over your resume and personal statement. Remove unnecessary details or repeated information, and ensure you only include the most useful and important facts.
• Clarity: Write clearly to make sure your message is easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or academic terms that the reader might not know.
• Length: Personal statements should be short but full of helpful information. There is no rigid word limit but keep your statement to a few brief lines that get to the point of who you are as a professional and what you want to achieve.

Formatting and structuring your statement  

Here are some guidelines for making your objective statement more straightforward and organised.

Formatting tips for maximum readability

The layout of your resume personal statement affects how hiring managers read and interact with your content. To make sure your writing is easy to comprehend, consider the following:

• For a professional appearance, pick a classy font that's simple to read, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
• Keep the font size the same throughout the document. The best range is between 10pt and 12pt.
• When choosing the point of view, think about the tone and setting of your resume personal statement.
• First-person POV allows you to connect with the reader more directly, and third-person POV can present an air of professionalism and objectivity.

Pros and cons of each POV style

Both the first-person and the third-person POVs have pros and cons. A first-person POV makes it feel like the text is directed at the reader, but it can sometimes be too casual. On the other hand, a third-person POV seems objective and professional. This is common in formal settings but can feel impersonal or distant.

The POV you choose affects the way your personal statement reads. First-person POV creates a more personal and conversational tone. The third-person perspective conveys a feeling of formality and objectivity, setting a tone appropriate for formal papers.

Alignment with your overall resume style

Pick a POV for your personal statement that complements your resume's general tone and style. The document should flow from one section to the next. To make a good impression on recruiters, change the POV to fit the role, the company culture, and the business. If you’re applying for a creative role, you can make your resume stand out by matching the creative writing style of your prospective employer.

Resume personal statement in first-person POV

“With a strong background in content marketing, I excel in writing, editing, content planning, and SEO. In my previous roles, I was committed to ensuring my team met deadlines and KPIs. I'm eager to leverage my skills and enthusiasm as Content Manager for the Singapore Creative Ad Agency.”

Resume personal statement in third-person POV

“Has a strong background in content marketing. Excels in writing, editing, content planning, and SEO. In previous roles, demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the team met deadlines and KPIs. Eager to leverage skills and enthusiasm as Content Manager for the Singapore Creative Ad Agency.”

Common mistakes when writing a personal statement  

Avoid common clichés and overused phrases.

Don't include phrases such as "hardworking," "team player," and "results-oriented." They don't say much about you and won't help you stand out from other applicants.

What to leave out of your personal statements

Remove any old or useless information that doesn't fit with your story or add value to your application. For example, if your achievements as a high school student aren’t relevant to your application, don’t include them. Read the job description carefully before adding any information.

Bad personal statement examples

"Motivated individual seeking challenging opportunities to utilise analytical skills and grow within a dynamic organisation."

"Passionate team player with excellent communication skills and a strong work ethic."

"Detail-oriented professional with a proven track record of success in various roles."

These examples are too short and vague. They don’t say anything about you as a person or employee. Make sure your personal statements showcase your unique traits and career path. Show your positive impact in your previous roles, and highlight what benefit your prospective employer can get from hiring you.

Bottom line  

Personal statements can make or break a job application. Using the ideas, examples, and advice in this guide, you can write the best statement that catches the hiring managers interest and connects with them on a deeper level. Remember that your personal statement is more than just a summary of your work history. It's your chance to show potential employers what you can do and how passionate you are about the job.

• What should I write in my statement for a resume? Your statement should briefly summarise your professional attributes. It should cover relevant skills, experiences, and career goals that match the role you're pursuing. ⁠
• Can you provide summary statements and examples for a job application? Yes! Here's an example: "As a seasoned marketing professional with a passion for innovation, I'm excited to leverage my expertise in digital marketing to enhance and energise your dynamic team at XYZ Company. Committed to driving tangible outcomes, I aim to contribute my skills in crafting impactful campaigns and utilising analytics to fuel your organisation's success." ⁠
• How long should a personal statement be on a resume? A few sentences should be enough for a short but powerful statement. They should focus on the most relevant information that fits the job description. ⁠
• What are some dos and don'ts for writing a resume personal statement? Dos: Personalise your statement for the position and company. Highlight your job-related abilities, experiences, and accomplishments. Don'ts: Avoid using clichés or generic phrases. Don't make it too long. ⁠
• How can I make my statement stand out to employers? Make your personal statements special to each role you apply for. Think about your personal profile and the job description. Highlight your unique skills, accomplishments, and goals that match the role's needs. This will help you connect strongly with managers. ⁠
• Are there any online tools to help me craft a personal statement? Yes, tools like Perfect Essay Writer, Paper Help, and BBQ Papers can help you improve and modify your personal statements by giving you language tips and reading-level feedback.

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46 Must-Know Resume Phrases That Earn Interviews

3 key takeaways

• Resume phrases highlight your skills, knowledge, and experience on your resume.
• There are three different types of resume phrases: action phrases, power phrases, and descriptive phrases.
• Teal’s AI Resume Builder can help you put these phrases to work and create your most impressive resume.

An impressive resume isn’t just about what you say— how you say it matters too. You can have a strong work history, relevant responsibilities, impressive accomplishments, and undeniable expertise under your belt. But none of those matter if you can’t summarize them in a way that captures the attention of potential employers.

That’s why it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with some of the best resume phrases and action words. While your resume content will be as unique as you are, these reliable phrases can give you some new ideas, help you write about your qualifications and abilities, and impress recruiters.

Ready to beat the blank page and put some sentences down on paper? This detailed guide (and long list of resume power phrases) will get you started. You’ll learn:

• What resume phrases are and why they’re important
• 46 different phrases you can use
• Resume phrase examples for different role types
• Tips for using resume phrases effectively

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free .

Understanding resume writing phrases: What they are and why they matter

Resume phrases are specific words or combinations of words used to highlight your skills, abilities, knowledge, and achievements on your resume.

Understanding the job market can help you choose the right phrases that align with industry expectations and employer needs.

It’s tempting to think the language you use on your resume doesn’t carry much weight, but choosing the right phrases and verbs can make or break your resume in the eyes of a potential employer. For example, take a look at this comparison:

• Handled customer questions and complaints
• Resolved customer inquiries and complaints with a 95% satisfaction rate, resulting in a 20% increase in customer retention

It’s not hard to see that the second option is far more impressive. And though there are other creative strategies and resume best practices at play in that example (such as quantifying accomplishments), the resume writing itself also makes a world of difference. The second bullet includes several powerful phrases and action words:

• Resulting in an increase
• Satisfaction rate

What are the different types of resume phrases?

There’s no shortage of ways you can categorize these phrases, but this guide covers three common types of resume phrases:

• Action phrases: Describe specific actions you took
• “Implemented a new inventory system…”
• Power phrases: Describe results you achieved or an impact you made
• “Reduced costs by…”
• Descriptive phrases: Describe your role and responsibilities
• “Managed a team of 10 customer service representatives”

There’s a lot of overlap between those categories—especially between action phrases and descriptive phrases. The main difference is that action phrases highlight what you actually did while descriptive phrases focus on your responsibilities.

Especially if you opt for using the STAR method on your resume , many of your bullet points will incorporate all three types of phrases at once.

Good resume phrase example

“Led a cross-functional team of 10 to develop and launch a new customer relationship management (CRM) system, resulting in a 30% increase in customer satisfaction and a 20% boost in sales within six months.”

• Action words or phrases: Led, develop, launch
• Power phrase: Resulting in a 30% increase in customer satisfaction and a 20% boost in sales
• Descriptive phrases: Cross-functional team of 10, new customer relationship management (CRM) system, within six months

That example illustrates the importance of the right phrases for your resume, but choosing them involves more than opening up a thesaurus while you’re writing. The best resume phrases are:

• Concise: Your document shouldn’t be stuffed with resume buzzwords and cliches . Get to the point and cut out fluff or unnecessary words.
• Specific: It’s tempting to over exaggerate your responsibilities, but big words aren’t always better. Phrases should clearly describe your role and achievements and increase understanding.
• Action-oriented: Particularly in your work experience section, each of your bullet points should start with a strong resume action verb to demonstrate how you achieved results.
• Relevant: Your resume isn’t intended to be a rundown of all of your tasks and positions throughout your career stages. Relevance is key. The job description will provide helpful clues and valuable insights to guide your resume writing.
• Quantified: Resume phrases are intended to kick start your writing process and not be copied and pasted exactly as they are. Customize them to your experience and supplement them with metrics and real-world examples to add extra impact. 

Where should you use resume phrases?

Wondering where to use these short snippets on your document? Most resume phrases are incorporated in two different sections of your resume:

• Your resume summary (sometimes called your resume personal statement )
• Your work experience section

These phrases can also be effectively used in your LinkedIn profile.

In your summary, these phrases can call attention to your overall career highlights, relevant skills, and the success you’ve achieved. In your job history bullet points, they’ll better describe your contributions and achievements in previous roles.

46 resume phrases you need to know

Now that you have the lay of the land, it’s time to look at some resume power words and phrases you can lean on during your resume writing process to effectively convey the skills, value, and solutions you can bring to a job. 

The best resume phrases start with action verbs—words that describe an action while emphasizing your contributions and achievements. Need help coming up with some? Check out this comprehensive guide to resume action verbs before you get started.

Action phrases for resumes

Use resume action verbs and phrases to describe the specific actions you took and contributions you made in a previous position.

• Assisted clients
• Created reports
• Designed and executed
• Developed a process
• Developed content
• Drafted documents
• Facilitated meetings
• Generated ideas
• Identified opportunities
• Implemented a new system
• Monitored progress
• Organized events
• Prepared resources
• Resolved issues
• Spearheaded an initiative
• Streamlined operations
• Trained staff

Power phrases for resumes

Use strong power words and phrases in your resume to describe the impact you made and the results you achieved (including specific metrics).

• Achieved top performance
• Boosted customer satisfaction
• Drove significant growth
• Elevated team performance
• Enhanced product quality
• Exceeded targets
• Expanded service offerings
• Improved accuracy
• Improved efficiency
• Improved retention rates
• Increased market share
• Increased revenue
• Maximized resources
• Minimized downtime
• Optimized processes
• Reduced costs
• Reduced turnaround time
• Strengthened client relationships

Descriptive phrases for resumes

Use these to describe what you were responsible for in a previous position.

• Collaborated cross-functionally
• Conducted research
• Coordinated efforts
• Coordinated team activities
• Ensured compliance
• Handled customer inquiries
• Maintained relationships
• Managed projects
• Oversaw operations
• Provided support

Resume phrase examples by job

The phrases above are flexible enough to be used in a variety of career paths. But it’s helpful to get a little more specific and look at phrases that apply to a certain job. Here are five different types of roles and examples of key phrases to use for each. 

1. Project manager resume phrases

• Achieved organizational goals
• Determined cost-saving initiatives
• Developed project plans
• Ensured smooth project execution
• Identified and mitigated project risks
• Implemented streamlined processes
• Led cross-functional teams
• Monitored project budget and timeline
• Reduced project costs
• Successfully managed multiple projects

2. Administrative assistant resume phrases

• Assisted in preparation of reports
• Coordinated office operations
• Handled correspondence and communications
• Managed schedules and appointments
• Maintained confidential files and records
• Prepared and organized meetings
• Provided administrative support
• Responded to client inquiries and requests

3. Data scientist resume phrases

• Analyzed datasets
• Automated data collection processes
• Cleaned and processed data
• Communicated data findings
• Created data visualizations
• Developed predictive models
• Extracted insights and trends
• Identified opportunities for improvement
• Implemented algorithms

4. Sales representative resume phrases

• Attended industry events
• Cultivated relationships
• Developed and implemented sales strategies
• Exceeded monthly targets
• Managed a pipeline
• Negotiated contracts and sales
• Prospected and generated leads
• Provided tailored solutions

5. Marketing professional resume phrases

• Analyzed market trends
• Conducted market research
• Created compelling content
• Drove brand awareness
• Executed marketing strategies
• Increased customer acquisition
• Monitored campaign performance
• Planned and executed events
• Reduced customer acquisition cost

Ready to write your own? Check out this guide to resume bullet points to make your snippets short and strong.

5 Essential tips for crafting effective resume phrases

The above phrases will get your creative juices flowing as you start writing your resume. But as you continue getting your skills and accomplishments down on paper, here are a few best practices to keep in mind when using common phrases.

1. Refer to the job description

Think your next best step is to pick out a few of the above phrases that sound the best to you? Not quite. Your goal is to use phrases that are the most relevant to the role you’re applying for to demonstrate how your qualifications and expertise match the position’s requirements. Understanding the job market can help you select the most relevant phrases.

Return to the job description and stay focused on finding key skills and words. Then, select words and phrases that are the best fit. For example, if the job posting mentions leadership several times, then you’ll choose phrases that use words like “led,” “managed,” “supervised,” “owned,” and “spearheaded.”

Struggling to figure out which words get a lot of importance in the job posting? Attach a job description in Teal’s AI Resume Builder to see your match score and determine how well your resume aligns with the language and skills from the job description.

2. Quantify your achievements

If you only rely on common phrases, your resume likely won’t stand out from the crowd—after all, everybody will describe themselves as a “go getter” or a “team player” on paper.

Employers want to see proof not only of the work you’ve done, but why it mattered. Adding metrics to your accomplishments and bullet points shows recruiters the results you’ve achieved in your past jobs.

This is another area where Teal can help with its resume bullet point generator . In your resume, click “add an achievement” and then the “write with AI” button. Teal will automatically come up with three options for metric-driven bullet points you can customize and use on your resume.

3. Use time-based statements

Reducing costs? That’s impressive. But reducing costs in only three months? That’s sure to get a hiring manager’s attention.

That’s why it’s helpful to use time-based statements that describe a certain period of time (for example, “in five weeks or within six months”). These also count as descriptive phrases on your resume.

In Teal’s AI Resume Builder, use the Analysis Score to see a detailed breakdown of issues on your resume—including where you’re missing time-based statements.

4. Check your verb tense

Most of the best phrases start with strong verbs, but don’t get so caught up in the language that you forget about using the right verb tense. On your resume, use:

• Present verb tense (e.g. “manage”) for jobs you currently work
• Past verb tense (e.g. “managed”) for jobs you worked previously

It’s a small change that can make your resume clearer and more polished.

5. Rely on tools to help you

Even with the best phrases to guide you, developing your resume can still feel daunting. Fortunately, you don’t have to start from scratch.

Use Teal’s AI Resume Builder to get over your fear of a blank page and create your strongest resume yet. It can help you:

• Automatically generate metric-rich achievements and contributions
• Compare your resume to the job description and identify keywords
• Provide suggestions to make strategic improvements to your content

Additionally, these tools can also help improve your LinkedIn profile, which complements your resume.

Something as simple as a prompt or an example bullet point can spark your creativity and ease the burden of writing your own resume. With Teal in your corner, you’ll feel more confident throughout the writing process so you can craft a resume that does your experience justice and makes a positive impression on an employer.

Ready to put these phrases and best practices to work on your own resume? Get started with Teal for free today .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are good lines for a resume.

Good lines for a resume effectively highlight your skills, achievements, and contributions. Examples include "Implemented a new inventory system, reducing operational costs by 15%" and "Led a cross-functional team to launch a new product, resulting in a 20% increase in sales."

What are key phrases in a resume?

Key phrases in a resume are specific words or combinations of words that highlight your skills, abilities, knowledge, and achievements. They fall into three categories:  strong verbs and phrases (e.g., "Implemented a new system"), power phrases (e.g., "Increased revenue by 20%"), and descriptive phrases (e.g., "Managed a team of 10").

What are some good words to use in a resume?

Good resume words are strong verbs that demonstrate your contributions and achievements. Action verbs include "Led," "Developed," "Implemented," "Achieved," "Optimized," and "Streamlined." These words help to clearly and concisely communicate your impact in previous roles.

Kat Boogaard

Related articles.

6 Best Resume Review Services According to a Resume Writer

How To Write Resume Sentences (Formula + Examples)

How To Use the PAR Method in Your Resume (+ Examples)

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Global IT outage: Computer havoc caused by CrowdStrike outage could take days to fix — as it happened

A massive IT outage caused by issues with CrowdStrike software has caused havoc with computer systems around the world.

Airport check-in systems across the globe have been disrupted, while banks, supermarkets and media companies are among the other businesses reporting the "blue screen of death" and network outages.

Download the ABC News app  and  subscribe to our range of news alerts  for further updates.

Here's how Friday's news unfolded:

• 12:38 PM 12:38 PM Fri 19 Jul 2024 at 12:38pm CrowdStrike CEO admits it could take 'some time' for some customers' systems to 'recover'
• 12:23 PM 12:23 PM Fri 19 Jul 2024 at 12:23pm CrowdStrike CEO apologises 'to anyone affected' by outage
• 11:50 AM 11:50 AM Fri 19 Jul 2024 at 11:50am Microsoft acknowledges continuing impacts on apps and services despite CrowdStrike 'fix'

Live updates

Here's what we know.

By Joseph Dunstan

• Reports of the outage in Australia began flooding in about 3pm AEST
• Outages hit banks and payment systems, forcing some supermarkets and petrol stations to close
• Airport check-in systems have been disrupted and businesses have reported the "blue screen of death" and IT outages
• The Australian government says the outages are not the result of a cybersecurity incident but has been caused by a CrowdStrike update  
• CrowdStrike's CEO says a defect in a recent update for Windows hosts has been identified and a fix has been deployed but some systems could be down for 'some time'  
• Microsoft says apps and services are still experiencing residual impacts
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• Outages continue to impact health services and air travel around the world

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By Daniel Nancarrow

That is all for our blog on the major outage that has impacted systems worldwide today.

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Thousands of flights cancelled and delayed across the US as outages continue

By Brad Ryan

In the US, airlines are working to restore systems and resume flights.

More than 1,000 flights had been cancelled and 2,000 delayed by 8:30am Friday morning (US eastern time), according to the FlightAware tracking website.

Still plenty of blue screens at Chicago's O'Hare Airport.

CrowdStrike CEO admits it could take 'some time' for some customers' systems to 'recover'

Kurtz told Today that the impact of the outage could be felt for 'some time' due to the systems of some of the company's customers still experiencing issues.

"Many of the customers are rebooting the system, and its coming up and it'll be operational because we fixed it on our end," Mr Kurtz said.   "And some of the systems that aren't recovering we're working with them.   So it could be some time for some systems that just automatically won’t recover."

CrowdStrike boss says the issue was related to a 'bug' in the company's update

Kurtz told Today a "bug" in the CrowdStrike update caused the issue with the Microsoft operating system.

"This system was sent an update and that update had a software bug in it and it caused an issue with the Microsoft operating system," he said. "We identified this very quickly and remediated the issue, and as systems come back online, as they're rebooted, they're coming up and they're working and now we are working with each and every customer to make sure we can bring them back online. "But that was the extent of the issue in terms of a bug that was related to our update."

CrowdStrike CEO apologises 'to anyone affected' by outage

CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz has appeared on US television network NBC, telling viewers the company was sorry for the impact of the defect on people around the world.

"I want to start with saying we're deeply sorry for the impact that we've caused to customers, to travellers, to anyone affected by this including our company," he told NBC's Today show.

Outage impacts doctor services in the UK

The UK's National Health Service (NHS) says the outage is causing problems at most doctors' offices across England.

NHS England said in a statement that the glitch was hitting the appointment and patient record system used across the health service.

The NHS said the issue was affecting the majority of family doctors' practices, but was not hitting the 999 number used to call for emergency ambulances.

The regulatory service at the London Stock Exchange has also stopped working but the outage has not affected trading.

Paris Olympics 2024 IT systems hit by global cyber outage

By Nelli Saarinen

The Paris Olympics' organising committee says its IT operations have been impacted by the global cyber outage, just a week before the Games are set to begin.

"We have activated contingency plans in order to continue operations," the organising committee said in a statement.

The organisers said the outages had impacted the arrival of some delegations. But they said impact was limited and the outages had not affected ticketing or the torch relay.

Reporting with Reuters and AP

Microsoft acknowledges continuing impacts on apps and services despite CrowdStrike 'fix'

Microsoft says while the underlying cause for the outages has been fixed, a "residual impact" is continuing to affect some Microsoft 365 apps and services.

"We're conducting additional mitigations to provide relief", the company Tweeted.

Air travel impacted worldwide by outages

We've been bringing you images of the long lines at Australian airports following the computing outage today.

Similar images have been seen all around the world as travel ground to a virtual halt in many countries.

The US's Federal Aviation Administration says United, American, Delta and Allegiant airlines have all been grounded by the outage.

As we mentioned earlier, airlines and railways have been affected in the UK and Germany, as well as other parts of Europe.

In India, Hong Kong and Thailand, many airlines were forced to manually check in passengers, while an airline in Kenya was also reporting disruptions.

ABC local radio presenter Andre Leslie was in Kuala Lumpur today, and took images of long lines at the airport with AirAsia's self-service kiosks shut down.

CrowdStrike shares fall nearly 12 per cent in premarket trading

Reuters is reporting that CrowdStrike's   Nasdaq-traded shares were down 11.8 per cent in premarket trading early Friday, US time.

Delays of up to 120 minutes expected on Victoria's regional train network

V/Line , the operator of regional rail and coach services in Victoria, has released a statement indicating customers can expect delays of up to 120 minutes as the company works to restore services.

Trains on the V/Line network were stopped at approximately 4.35pm due to a radio system fault linked to a widespread computing outage. Trains resumed about an hour later but significant delays are expected on all lines for a number of hours.

Coaches are in place at major train stations on the network.

For more information visit the V/Line website or call 1800 800 007.

Calls for inquiry into national outage as well as penalties for CrowdStrike's 'bad governance'

Here is associate professor at RMIT's School of Engineering Dr Mark A Gregory speaking on ABC News about the CrowdStrike outage and the need for the government to call an inquiry.

Dr Gregory says questions needed to be answered about compensation for the national outage as well as what penalties the company should face.

He said Australia was quite lax when it came to regulating foreign multinational companies like CrowdStrike.

"We don't appear to have the legislation and regulation to hold them to account to ensure that they follow good engineering practice, and that definitely has not happened in this case, as an inquiry should find," Dr Gregory said.

He attributed the outage to "bad governance" at CrowdStrike.

"There should have been no roll-out to an entire country or to the entire world without testing within CrowdStrike, and also testing on, for example, a company that has agreed to be a test site for that software," he told News Channel. "The idea that this update has been rolled out globally and has caused this sort of problem is unthinkable."

He said after a number of cybersecurity incidents in recent years, such as the 2023 Optus outage, Australia needed to consider stronger legislation and regulation "to ensure this type of event does not happen again".

"In every circumstance to date, Australia and our legislation and regulations have been found wanting," he said.

with Alicia Perera

Expert expects situation to be 'pretty well back to normal' by midday tomorrow

By Greig Johnston

Dr Mark Gregory , a network engineering expert at RMIT University, says he expects the problems to be largely resolved by tomorrow morning .

"Software like CrowdStrike's Falcon platform are typically rolled out from a central part of an organisation," Dr Gregory said. "They have IT support teams … they should be able to quite quickly apply the patch. "As we've heard, a problem exists if a computer has been turned off after the blue screen occurred, the computer will need to be turned back on so the patch can be applied. "But generally, I would expect this type of problem should be resolved by tomorrow morning. "IT teams are going to be working late tonight because they'll need to apply the patch, then there'll be a lot of testing. "I would expect by about midday tomorrow things should be pretty well back to normal."

Full statement from CrowdStrike regarding 'defect' causing worldwide outages

Earlier we posted the Tweet from CrowdStrike 's CEO regarding the cause of the worldwide computing outages . Here is the statement from the company again in full:

"CrowdStrike is actively working with customers impacted by a defect found in a single content update for Windows hosts. Mac and Linux hosts are not impacted. "This is not a security incident or cyberattack. The issue has been identified, isolated and a fix has been deployed. "We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website. "We further recommend organizations ensure they're communicating with CrowdStrike representatives through official channels. "Our team is fully mobilized to ensure the security and stability of CrowdStrike customers."

Small businesses frustrated by eftpos down

By Liana Walker

Business owner Danielle Hempseed said Fridays are always a busy day in her Rockhampton florist and gift shop, making the outage "frustrating".

"Having point of sales down, eftpos down, and emails down, it makes it really hard for us to operate," she said.

Ms Hempseed said the business has been experiencing dodgy reception recently, so they already had alternative payment options in place for when disaster struck, such as offering direct bank account transfers or processing the payment at a later time.

"We just have to trust [our customers] a little bit more," she said.

"We have always taken cash, that has never been an issue for us."

She said this is a reminder of how dependent her business is on technology.

Reporting by Scout Wallen

Victorians urged to call 000 in case of fire due to outages impacting automatic alarm calling

Victorian fire services are aware that some residential and business buildings that have monitored fire alarms may not automatically call the fire brigade due to current computing outages.

Victorians have been asked to call 000 if their building fire alarm is activated, or if they see flames or smoke, while the issue is being investigated by alarm companies.

Hospitals, airports and ports being impacted internationally

By Alicia Perera

Michelle Rimmer from the ABC's London bureau says the outage is having widespread impacts globally on industries ranging from transport to infrastructure and even healthcare.

"Across Europe, at airports in Spain, in Germany, there have been incidents that have been reported at almost all of the airports. They've had to revert to manual operations just to try and keep things running at this stage," she told News Channel. "The German government has said that critical infrastructure and operators have been impacted. "The Paris Olympic Committee have released a statement saying that they've been affected as well, however, they have contingencies in place to make sure that they can continue with their planning and preparations ahead of the opening ceremony in just one week's time. "Poland has said that its main shipping container terminal is struggling to keep up with any incoming ship loads — it's asked to not have any more containers dropped off. "So we're really seeing broad impacts across a range of industries across Europe."

She says the outage is even leading to healthcare delays in the UK, where hospitals and GP surgeries are currently "only able to treat some of the most urgent cases".

"That's because they can't access medical records," she says. "So they're reverting back to pen and paper to make sure that the most urgent emergency cases are still being seen, but others have been delayed."

Memories of 'Y2K'

Quite a few people in our comments have mentioned the outage has shades of "Y2K".

For those of our readers too young to remember, that was when — in the year 1999 — there were widespread fears of a technological catastrophe because old computers formatted the date with just the final two digits of the year, rather than the full four-digit year.

There were worries this glitch would turn into a full-scale meltdown as the clock ticked over into the year 2000.

Companies rushed to make sure their systems were "Y2K compliant".

Thankfully the problems reported on January 1, 2000 were pretty minor.

But this was in a time when cash was still in widespread use, before "tapping" was the preferred currency.

Consumers feel ripple effect due to CrowdStrike being 'heavily entrenched' in global IT supply chains

David Cullen from CISO Lens , the body that represents cybersecurity professionals in Australia and New Zealand, says CrowdStrike's software is "heavily entrenched" in global IT supply chains, so the issue doesn't just affect its customers, but its customers' customers and so on.

"This is a classic case of what happens when one supplier catches a cold, and the rest of us end up with the flu," he says. "Resolving this issue will take some time. It won't be as simple as turn it off and turn it on again." "When the dust settles, I hope that governments take the opportunity to partner with industry to capture lessons learned from this incident, to understand how we can better prepare ourselves for future major incidents and IT outages. "While this wasn't a cyber attack, the impacts are the same."