How do I write a resume that actually sounds like me?
Think of your resume as your professional highlight reel. It's a clear, honest story of the impact you’ve made and what you’re ready to bring next. Your voice matters here. When you connect the dots between the job posting and your real experience in a way that still sounds like you, you show up with more confidence, and you help the hiring manager picture you in the role.
Yes, professionalism matters. But that doesn’t mean your resume has to sound stiff or generic. Let your language reflect your voice and experience. Avoid burying your story in jargon or buzzwords, especially if it means the real impact gets lost.
To get started, map out a rough timeline of your experience (paid, unpaid, or volunteer) from the past 5 to 10 years. You won’t need to include everything on your resume, but the timeline gives you a base to pull from as you shape your highlight reel.
Next, revisit the job description to update your resume. From there:
Summary: Jot down one or two sentences about why you’re a great fit. This becomes the backbone of your professional summary. Use your own tone to reflect alignment with the job and communicate what you bring to the table.
Skills: Choose 4–6 core skills from the job description that you genuinely have, especially those not already listed in your summary. If a skill isn’t named in the posting, challenge yourself to explain its relevance.
Experience: Choose roles that best showcase your fit. Under each, include 2–4 bullet points that clearly communicate your contributions and impact. If the connection isn’t obvious, don’t be afraid to explain it in simple terms.
Education: List out relevant education, certifications, or trainings. Don’t be afraid to list education that is in progress, as long as it is actively in progress.
✍️ The Experience Bullet Builder Worksheet — included in the free Career Clarity Packet — can help you shape your highlight reel with clarity, honesty, and impact.
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Hiring managers are prioritizing finding the right fit candidate over the perfect resume. So don’t let perfection be the enemy of progress. When your resume reflects your story with honesty and clarity, it becomes a tool you can stand behind that helps get your foot in the door.
If you’re stuck or want a second set of eyes, I offer 1:1 resume coaching to help you align your experience and voice with your next opportunity. Let’s bring your story to life, together.
