4 Steps to Creating a Memorable Executive Resume

As an executive job seeker, you want to put your best foot forward each time you apply for a job.  But even when you’re able to give it your all, it’s easy to feel that there are many other executive candidates doing the exact same thing.

There’s no doubt that everyone is working hard to be recognized as the next best candidate.  But you can still give yourself an edge by having a secret weapon under your belt.  What’s that weapon?  Creating a truly memorable executive resume that will force a hiring manager to call you in for an interview.

Here are four steps to help you get it done …

1. Clearly Format Your Resume

It may not seem that a clearly formatted resume is important, but it’s actually one of the most critical elements included in resume crafting.  If top decision makers—who are also very busy, by the way—cannot clearly and quickly decipher what’s been placed in your resume, they’re not going to read it.  Period.

The best way to ensure that your resume is readable is to incorporate bullet points and subheadings.  By creating plenty of white space, you ensure that your reader won’t get lost in the copy.

2. Create a Branding Statement

Another way to write a truly memorable resume is to come up with a fantastic branding statement.  The great thing about these statements is that they allow you to be creative in describing who you see yourself to be as a top executive candidate.

So as you write your statement, think—in great detail—about what you’ve contributed to other companies.  How do you think you can make a difference with a new employer?  And how do you want the world to view you as an executive?

3. Share Your Best From All Former Positions

You may be tempted to detail each and every former position you’ve ever held and describe your roles and responsibilities, but instead consider taking a more action-oriented approach.

Rather than state, “As the executive, I was responsible for …” you can share a brief summary of your main contributions, then dive into bullet points that list your top accomplishments with each employer.  This always helps managers visualize how effective you will be if you take on the role they hope to fill.

4. Make Your Resume Tight

One pet peeve hiring managers have is that executive candidates are often long-winded in every aspect of the application process—from the interview to the resume.  So, knowing that you have a long history to share, a hiring manager will actually be pleased if you’re able to submit a resume that gets right to the point, stays within 2-3 pages, and shares only impressive information.

The best way to ensure you stand out from the crowd is to create a resume that identifies you as a top candidate.  If it’s memorable enough, you’ll increase your chances of being called in for an interview—where you can then charm your way into the job of your dreams.