For all resume intents and purposes, there are two types of relevant achievements.
Personal achievements include high grades in school, winning competitions, volunteering, or participating in sport events.
Professional achievements include increasing job performance, saving the company money, facilitating its growth, or exceeding work targets.
Here's how you can include them in your resume:
Consider significance. Only list achievements in a separate section if they’re relevant or impressive enough.
Use other sections instead. Your entire resume should be about your achievements, not only one of its sections. Always try to include achievements together with your work history, education, or even hobbies.
Always quantify. A measured achievement is particularly impressive. Claiming that you “Cut client costs” doesn’t sound as impressive as “Cut client costs by 16 % in 12 months.” Be specific!
Tips:
Keep it short. Avoid writing long paragraphs and use bullet points instead.
Prioritize. If you decide to designate an entire section to your achievements, think about which accomplishments are the most significant. Would you be impressed by it if you were a hiring manager?
Avoid controversy. Some achievements may be too personal or controversial. Avoid listing any political or religious accomplishments.
Don’t exaggerate. Avoid making something up. You might be asked about your accomplishments in your job interview. Or they might contact your references. Lying or exaggerating can cost you a job.
Mention your biggest accomplishments in your resume summary. If you’re a seasoned professional with many notable achievements, they deserve to be placed on the top of your resume. A resume summary is the first thing hiring managers read. Impress them from the get-go.
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