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Recruiters only spend 7.4 seconds to review a resume.
Within the first few seconds, they need to decide if the resume merits a second review or not.
With so much at stake, it is important that your resume summary, which is the first thing that recruiters read on your resume makes a good first impression and intrigues the recruiter to read more.
Additionally, before your resume reaches the recruiters' eyes, it need to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by recruiters to filter resumes.
Thus, your resume summary must not only be intriguing enough but should also include relevant keywords to help it rank high on the ATS.
Read on to understand the importance of a resume summary and get a clear understanding of how to draft a professional resume summary. We'll cover a range of topics including:
- What is a resume summary?
- Tips to write a powerful resume summary
- How to write a resume summary for experienced candidates?
- Resume summary for a candidate with no experience
- What is the difference between a resume summary and an objective?
- What are some good resume objective examples?
What Is a Good Summary for Resume?
A good resume statement is a brief highlight of your career achievements and your impact on the growth of an organization.
It should be limited to 2-3 sentences, and should include a strong & powerful introduction of your most relevant career experience, skills, and achievements.
The first sentence of the resume summary should always start with your professional selling point that highlights:
- Your years of experience
- Your certification
- A specialized skill
only in the context of the requirements of your target job.
5 Tips to Write a Powerful Resume Summary
- Make sure your resume summary is only focusing on your highest selling points relevant to the target job.
- If you are an experienced candidate, you can start by mentioning your total years of relevant experience.
- Instead of talking about your responsibilities, focus on your achievements in the light of what your next organization needs.
- You can also consider adding ballpark performance figures to gain an edge over your competition.
- Don't randomly list your skills; mention how you can demonstrate those skills in your work stints.
Resume Summary Example:
10+ years experienced Business Development Manager with a prolific track record of spearheading 100-member teams to formulate and execute high-growth strategies across domains spanning pharma, banking, and financial services. Adept at forging strategic alliances and conceptualizing business growth initiatives for boosting profitability and directing expansion across continents.
Also Read: What is a resume personal statement?
How to Write a Resume Summary?
The way you write a resume summary for an experienced candidate differs from a resume summary for a fresher.
We'll show you exactly how to write a professional resume summary for different situations of a candidate:
Professional Summary In Resume for Experienced Candidates
It's comparatively easy to write a resume summary if you have exceptional work experience.
The summary should be 2-3 sentences long. Not more than that.
- First sentence: The first sentence should start with your selling point, which is your years of experience, certifications (if any), or profile title.
- Second & third sentences: The second & third sentences should describe your most relevant skill and achievement.
Also Read: Resume summary generator
Example of Professional Summary in Resume for Experienced Candidates:
14+ years experienced senior operations management professional with a track record of spearheading teams to champion business operations spanning diverse countries and conglomerates in the telecom and IT domains. Highly skilled in conceptualizing and implementing cost-effective strategies to streamline operations by optimizing processes for delivering user-centric solutions. Proficient in directing the execution of end-to-end migration-based projects and deploying domain expertise to bolster the quality of service delivery and resolve escalations.
Also Read: How to write a resume summary when you are making a career change?
Summary for Resume with No Experience
A resume summary for freshers is not as detailed as that of experienced professionals. But even if you don't have enough years of work experience, you still can make a good summary section.
- First sentence: Start the first sentence with a descriptive quality that isn't vague and holds true, along with your GPA (if 3.5+). Also, add any relevant experience obtained from or outside your classroom.
- Second sentence: Add relevant skills in the second sentence of the resume summary that align with the target job role.
- Third sentence: If you have any additional experience, you can add that to the third sentence, provided it's somewhat relevant to your target role.
Also Read: How to write a resume summary for a fresh graduate?
Example Resume Summary for Freshers (Finance Graduate):
Dynamic and result-oriented Finance Graduate proficient in deploying analytical and database tools to analyze financial operations. Adept at employing effective data analysis techniques to facilitate sound decision-making and successfully execute projects. An eager learner with excellent business communication skills and armed with the required skillset to be propelled to higher positions.
Also Read: What is a resume objective section?
40+ Resume Summary Examples
Here are a few powerful resume summary examples for candidates with different levels of work experience and industries:
1. Caregiver Resume Summary Examples
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2. Computer Science Resume Summary Examples
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3. Digital Marketing Resume Summary Examples
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4. Food Service Resume Summary Examples
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5. High School Resume Summary Examples
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6. Nursing Student Resume Summary Examples
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7. Research Assistant Resume Summary Examples
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8. Warehouse Resume Summary Examples
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9. Assistant Accountant Resume Summary Examples
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10. Bartender Resume Summary Examples
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11. Cashier Resume Summary Examples
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12. Certified Nursing Assistant Resume Summary Examples
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13. Customer Service Resume Summary Examples
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14. Dental Assistant Resume Summary Examples
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15. Financial Analyst Resume Summary Examples
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16. Information Technology Resume Summary Examples
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17. Marketing Resume Summary Examples
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18. Medical Assistant Resume Summary Examples
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19. Receptionist Resume Summary Examples
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20. Social Worker Resume Summary Examples
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21. Software Engineer Resume Summary Examples
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22. Pre-School Teacher Resume Summary Examples
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23. Web Developer Resume Summary Examples
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24. Account Manager Resume Summary Examples
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25. HR Generalist Resume Summary Examples
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26. Marketing Manager Resume Summary Examples
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27. Program Manager Resume Summary Examples
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28. Operations Manager Resume Summary Examples
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29. Product Manager Resume Summary Examples
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30. Project Manager Resume Summary Examples
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31. Sales Manager Resume Summary Examples
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32. Warehouse Manager Resume Summary Examples
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33. Registered Nurse Resume Summary Examples
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34. Entry Level Marketing Resume Summary Examples
Dynamic Marketing Management Professional armed with a practical approach for creative problem-solving and possessing a track record of liaising with key stakeholders to formulate and execute marketing strategies. Adept at deploying analytical tools to boost brand positioning and product marketing. Highly skilled in analyzing market trends to bolster customer acquisition and deliver compelling business value to clients.
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35. IT Recruitment Specialist Resume Summary Examples
8 years experienced Senior Recruitment Expert with a track record of spearheading teams to formulate and effectively execute pan-US recruitment strategies in the IT domain. Proficient in employing the latest human capital practices to attract and retain high-potential talent. Forward-thinking change agent, adept at strengthening corporate culture and addressing grievances for ensuring cordial management-employee relations.
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36. General Manager Resume Summary Examples
20 years experienced Senior Management Professional and Port/Shipping Specialist armed with the skills of spearheading teams to champion operations management for inbound and outbound cargo across international trade lines. Adept at conducting audits and directing quality assurance initiatives for achieving business objectives. Highly skilled in conceptualizing cost optimization measures and enhancing the utilization of resources for delivering compelling business value to key stakeholders.
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37. F&B Operations Head Position Summary Examples
13+ years experienced F&B Operations Expert with a track record of championing retail functions to achieve business goals. Proficient in conducting competitive analysis and mapping market trends to formulate strategies and exceed sales and business development targets. Armed with the skills of building and managing a cross-functional team from scratch and implementing innovative marketing techniques to boost store turnover and maximize profitability. Adept at creating a congenial work environment as a change agent to deliver a delightful consumer experience and incubate high-performing teams.
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38. Business Development Head Summary Examples
20 years experienced Sales and Business Development Leader skilled in direct sales, channel sales, business development, marketing, team management, and relationship management in the publishing industry. Highly skilled in sales of different products across multiple channels and direct sales, including selling to both corporate and the government. Armed with the skills of conducting pre-sales research and post-sales analysis.
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39. Senior Database Administrator Profile Summary for Resume
16+ years experienced Senior Database Administrator with a track record of spearheading diverse teams to effectively execute key project deliverables. Adept at providing and supervising end-to-end database solutions. Highly skilled in deploying complex database administration solutions and automation initiatives across database environments in different domains.
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40. Art Director Profile Summary for Resume Examples
Award-winning art director with ~8 years of experience and proficiency in executing global campaigns for leading international brands. Adept at delivering out-of-the-box concepts, dynamic visuals, and innovative strategies for online and print deliveries. Armed with the skills of driving leading market share, record-setting response rates, and customer base expansion.
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41. Investment Banking Operations Specialist Summary Examples
12+ years experienced Investment Banking Operations Expert and Certified Six Sigma Specialist adept at leading cross-functional teams to effectively implement financial controls, processes, and systems. Possesses a proven track record of formulating strategies to direct project management and liaising with key external and internal stakeholders for process optimization and risk management. Highly skilled in leveraging human capital by motivating and mentoring professionals to align departmental objectives with organizational goals.
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42. Investment/Research Advisor & Relationship Manager Summary
~10 years experienced Series-VIII: Equity Derivatives Relationship Manager proficient in preparing projects on over and under-valued equity and managing portfolios of HNI clients in the private and corporate banking sectors. Armed with the skills of rendering technical assistance to clients on stock selection while analyzing financial and investment needs to drive 100% customer satisfaction.
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43. IT Professional & Program Lead Profile Summary Examples
26+ years experienced Program Management Expert and Product Specialist armed with a stellar track record of incubating and managing high-performing teams to formulate strategies for executing multi-million dollar programs spanning geographically dispersed regions across the globe. Adept at translating complex customer requirements into actionable strategies to deliver user-friendly products by deploying expertise across product development, account management, and project delivery. Highly skilled in conceptualizing and implementing data-driven solutions to deliver compelling business value to key stakeholders and clients.
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44. Radiology & Sonology Profile Summary Examples
12+ years experienced Senior Radiologist highly skilled in radiology, sonology, and operating MRI machines and slice machines. Proficient in all the functions concerning radiology including cross sectional imaging–neuroradiology, MSK, Onco Interventions, and body imaging. Demonstrated skills and abilities in taking proper care of the patients and providing the utmost medical attention.
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45. Public Policy Head & Government Relations Expert Summary
15+ years experienced Public Policy Expert and Government Affairs Specialist armed with the skills of collaborating with state and Central governments to revamp public perception and reform growth-inhibiting policies for conglomerates. Possesses a track record of adding USD 200 million+ to top-line growth by aggressively advocating organizational interests to achieve positive clarifications. Adept at managing sensitive issues and employing out-of-the-box thinking to handle crises and manage risks.
Also Read: How to draft a professional public relation resume?
The summary for resume examples provided above covers a wide range of profiles with professionals from different levels. Scan through them and get an insight into what a professional summary for resume looks like.
Difference Between Resume Summary and an Objective
Although both resume summary and objective are two sections that appear at the top of a resume and serve to introduce the candidate to the potential employer, they differ in their approach and purpose.
A resume objective is a brief statement of the candidate's career goals and what they hope to achieve in their next job. On the other hand, a resume summary is a brief overview of the candidate's skills, experience, and achievements that make them a good fit for the job.
A resume objective is suitable for candidates who are just starting out in their careers or have limited work experience. It helps to communicate their career aspirations and what they hope to achieve in the job they are applying for.
For example, a candidate looking for a job as a software developer might write an objective like this:
"To secure an entry-level software developer position at XYZ company, where I can apply my knowledge of programming languages and gain experience in developing software applications."
On the other hand, a resume summary is a better option for candidates with more work experience. It is a concise overview of the candidate's skills, achievements, and experience that make them a good fit for the job. It should highlight the candidate's most relevant experience and achievements in the field.
For example, a software developer with several years of experience might write a summary like this:
"Software developer with 5 years of experience in developing software applications using Java, Python, and C++. Proven track record of developing high-quality software solutions that meet client requirements and exceed expectations. Skilled in agile development methodology and collaboration with cross-functional teams."
Also Read: What are some of the most essential resume sections in 2023?
Resume Objective Examples
Given below are some examples of resume objectives that you can use as a reference to write your own:
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Seeking an entry-level position in the marketing field where I can apply my strong communication and analytical skills to help increase brand awareness and customer engagement.
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Aspiring to obtain a challenging position in the IT industry where I can utilize my problem-solving skills and technical expertise to contribute to the success of the company.
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Seeking a position as a registered nurse where I can apply my clinical skills and compassionate patient care to provide high-quality healthcare services.
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Seeking an internship in the finance industry to gain practical experience and knowledge in financial analysis and investment management.
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Aspiring to obtain a position in the hospitality industry where I can apply my excellent customer service skills and attention to detail to provide an exceptional guest experience.
Also Read: How to write a resume executive summary?
Resume Summary - Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a good resume summary?
A good resume summary is a brief paragraph at the beginning of a resume that highlights your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements, and demonstrates how you can add value to the position you are applying for. It should be concise, compelling, and tailored to the job requirements.
- How to write an excellent resume summary?
To write a good resume summary, start by highlighting the years of experience you have. Keep it brief and to the point, with no more than two to three sentences. Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the position and use active language with strong action verbs to convey your achievements and contributions. Additionally, tailor your summary to the specific job you are applying for, and make sure to showcase your unique value proposition to the employer.
- How to write a resume summary with no experience?
One effective approach to write a resume summary without experience is to focus on your transferable skills, education, certifications, and academic achievements. You can also emphasize your passion for the industry and your willingness to learn and grow. Lastly, make sure to highlight your strengths and potential value to the employer.
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