Your Resume Is A Sales Document

Businesses have brochures. People have resumes. You should think of your resume as a sales document. Both brochures and resumes are a summary of experience, skills, credentials, and achievements that differentiate the business or job applicant. Let’s break that last sentence down:

Summary

Brochures and resumes are not life stories. The customers who look at brochures and the recruiters who look at resumes are focused on what they need at that moment. In the case of resumes, the focus is on finding the right employee to fill a specific position.

Experience, Skills, And Credentials

Like customers, recruiters want to know they are getting the best value for their dollar. If you lack the experience, skills, and credentials—the requirements for handling the job—you are unlikely to be called in for an interview.

Achievements That Differentiate

Every dry cleaning establishment is the same, right? But suppose a dry cleaner’s brochure spotlights their experience preserving wedding gowns. Now that dry cleaner has a niche. Your resume should spotlight your niche, whether that is working in teams, bringing in more sales than your fellow salespeople, a willingness to travel, experience working with regulatory agencies in your industry—your achievements in your career set you apart from everyone else. 

The best brochures let customers know this company has what the customer needs. The best resumes let recruiters know you can deliver what they need.