Resume Summary Examples (No Matter How Much Experience You Have)
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What is an entry-level resume summary?
An entry-level resume summary is your introduction to an employer. If you’re a recent graduate, student or teenager, it’s a great way to demonstrate your suitability for the role. If you are applying for an entry-level role, your resume summary will focus on how your skills and experience will benefit an employer. This article will help you to write a strong resume summary that will attract a hiring manager’s attention.
How to write a resume summary
Here are some steps to follow when writing your resume summary:
1. First, write your resume to help you focus on your skills
As the name suggests, your resume summary is a collection of the key things an employer should know about you. It is much easier to write when you have completed the rest of your resume and identified your most relevant skills. When you write your resume summary, focus on how you could add value to the role you are applying for. There are no set rules, but it should be between one and four sentences long.
2. Second, describe your desired role and qualifications
Use strong words to describe yourself, including your most relevant qualities. State the position you are applying for and give details of your most recent qualification or achievement. You want to make the best impression possible, so focus on the key points. You can include more details about your skills elsewhere on your resume.
3. Then, showcase the most relevant parts of your experience
Your summary should reflect the requirements in the job description to identify which qualities the employer is most interested in. Review your skills and experience to see where they match. Draw attention to any specific outcomes you achieved. This will help focus the attention of a recruiter and show them exactly what you could bring to the role and how your skills could benefit the employer.
4. Nest, use the keywords from the job description
The job description lists everything the employer is looking for, so use the words they have used to describe your own skills. Consider your hard and soft skills and show how you have used them to achieve measurable goals. If you have work experience but from a role in a different sector, think about the transferable skills you gained and relate them to the job you are applying for.
5. Lastly, put your summary at the top of your resume
Your resume summary should go directly under your name and contact information. It is the first thing a hiring manager will see. They may decide whether to read more or not based on your summary.
Resume summary examples
Your first sentence should describe you with a positive adjective and state which role you are applying for. You can also list your most recent or relevant qualifications. Your second sentence will cover your top skills, relating them to the job description and ensuring you include both hard and soft skills. The last one or two sentences will cover any awards, achievements or certifications you have. You can also include any charity work or relevant interests in this sentence.
Here are some examples you can use when writing your own resume summary:
Examples of the first sentence of a resume summary:
‘Personable restaurant hostess currently pursuing a bachelor of science degree in biology from EdgeWater University.’
‘Passionate entry-level cashier possessing an associate of arts degree from EdgeWater Community College.’
‘Hardworking entry-level landscaper who recently obtained a GED certification.’
Examples of the second sentence of a resume summary:
‘Strong verbal and written communication skills combined with a hardworking attitude.’
‘Strong computer skills, including experience with MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and Adobe Creative Suite.’
‘Strong time management and organization skills.’
Examples of the last sentence of a resume summary:
‘Previous experience volunteering in local homeless shelters practicing food service and customer service.’
‘Possesses a CPR and first-aid certification.’
‘Passionate about aeronautics, technology and science.’
Examples of an entry-level resume summary:
‘Customer-focused retail worker who recently completed a bachelor of arts in English literature at Winterton University. Excellent communication skills and experience handling cash and using EPOS systems. Passionate about reading and theater and former editor of the college newspaper.’
‘Enthusiastic entry-level child care assistant with a diploma in childcare and a certificate in therapeutic play. Creative play leader with expertise in early education and five years’ experience as a babysitter for several different families. Volunteer with the Big Brothers of America with first aid certification and a clean driving license.’
‘Responsible entry-level veterinarian’s assistant has recently completed the GED at Summerview Community College. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to put pets and their owners at ease. Committed to animal welfare having volunteered at Happy Hearts animal shelter and assisted with their free vaccination program.’
Your resume summary should make your application stand out from the competition. A strong resume summary will increase the chances that a recruiter will read your resume in more depth. When applying for entry-level roles, focus on what you can offer an employer and how your personal qualities make you a good fit for the position. A strong resume summary will help you to make a positive impression and increase your chances of being invited for an interview.