How to Write a Resume Summary Statement

Alison Doyle
May 22, 2015
Newsletter Article

A resume summary statement is a brief list of the highlights of your qualifications. It gives the hiring manager, at a glance, a synopsis of your professional qualifications. If you opt to use a resume summary statement what should you include and what's the best way to write it?
Here are tips on how to write a summary statement plus resume statement examples from Dana Leavy, founder of Aspyre Solutions career coaching in New York.

How to Write a Resume Summary Statement
A Summary Statement to introduce your resume can quickly and effectively brand yourself to a prospective employer. This is often the first item read, so get to the point - Why should they hire you, essentially? Often a Resume Objective statement tends to focus more your own interests as the job seeker, while a "Summary" statement communicates what you can bring to the table in the targeted role. Highlight your most relevant strengths, skills & core competencies that are unique to you as a candidate, versus a trait or skill that's an industry or professional standard (i.e. "multi-tasker" or "team-player").

What to Include in a Resume Summary Statement
The Summary statement should be approximately 4-6 lines and speak to your professional background only. Do not address any outstanding circumstances (employment gaps, change of career, personal experiences, etc.). A cover letter is an expanded version of the statement that will allow for personality to shine through.

Resume Summary Statement Samples

ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONAL
Multi-faceted, efficient & reliable administrative professional with 10+ years of experience supporting executives, sales and managers to improve internal operations for small businesses. Proficient in all of the standard office desktop software, CRM applications and design programs. Diversified skill sets covering administrative support, client relations, writing, human resources & recruiting, account management and project management. Excellent inter-personal, phone and digital communication skills. .

PROJECT MANAGER
Seasoned project manager with 5+ years of print project management experience and knowledge of web production obtained from positions in educational publishing, consumer packaging, and financial services. Professional, flexible, creative, and service-oriented. Offering a unique combination of creativity and analytical skill with the ability to assess both vantage points to create cost-effective solutions for internal and external clients.

CEO
Hands-on executive officer known for strategic and focused approach, with extensive accolades for limiting risk, creating lean teams, and establishing creative strategies for optimizing internal operations, financial returns and external customer service and output.

What to Include in a Resume Summary Statement
Notice that in all three examples the candidates touched upon a couple key elements: