How To Write Job Descriptions in a Resume With Examples, Tips, and Guide

Job descriptions on your resume are critical in securing interviews and job offers. They provide an opportunity to communicate your experience, skills, and contributions in a way that resonates with potential employers. This guide will cover why job descriptions matter, the critical elements of an adequate job description, how to write descriptions for different levels of experience, and common mistakes to avoid. You’ll also find examples of various job roles.

Why Job Descriptions Matter on a Resume

• Displaying your experience and skills

Job descriptions on your resume are a powerful way to demonstrate your qualifications for a position. By detailing your roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments, you provide concrete evidence of your experience. Well-crafted descriptions highlight your ability to perform tasks relevant to the job and demonstrate the skills that will benefit your future employer.

• Differentiating yourself from other candidates

In a competitive job market, well-written job descriptions can set you apart. While many candidates may have similar roles, your ability to describe your unique contributions and the value you added can make a difference. Focusing on achievements, such as improving processes or leading a successful project, presents your impact and helps differentiate you from other applicants.

• Aligning with employer needs

Tailoring your job descriptions to the specific position you’re applying for is key to proving you meet the employer’s needs. Each role may emphasize different skills or responsibilities, and aligning your experience with the job posting demonstrates that you understand what the employer seeks. You can effectively position yourself as the ideal candidate using language and examples that reflect the company’s priorities.

Crafting Impactful Job Descriptions for Resumes

• Using action verbs

Strong job descriptions begin with action verbs, which create a sense of initiative and impact. Words like “led,” “designed,” “implemented,” or “increased” immediately convey that you took action and contributed meaningfully. These verbs not only grab attention but also make your responsibilities sound more dynamic, helping potential employers visualize the results of your work.

• Quantifying achievements

Including quantifiable results in your job descriptions is a powerful way to demonstrate the impact of your work. Numbers offer concrete evidence of your contributions, whether it’s increasing sales by 20%, reducing costs by 15%, or managing a team of 10. Metrics help hiring managers understand the scale of their responsibilities and the success of their efforts, providing measurable proof of their abilities.

• Featuring relevant skills and responsibilities

When writing job descriptions, focusing on the skills and responsibilities most relevant to the position you’re applying for is crucial. Review the job posting to identify the key qualifications and ensure your descriptions reflect them. For example, if a job requires leadership, show instances where you managed a team or led a project. Aligning your skills with the job’s requirements increases your chances of making a strong impression.

• Describing key projects and initiatives

Detailing significant projects you’ve worked on is an excellent way to illustrate your leadership or technical expertise. Whether it’s launching a new product, implementing a new process, or overseeing a large budget, describing the project’s scope and your role in its success gives hiring managers a deeper understanding of your capabilities. This can be particularly effective for roles requiring solution-seeking or strategic thinking.

How To Write Job Descriptions for Different Levels of Experience

• Entry-level positions

For candidates with limited professional experience, it’s essential to convey transferable skills and relevant coursework. Job descriptions should focus on internships, volunteer work, or academic projects demonstrating teamwork, communication, and solution-seeking skills. Emphasizing your eagerness to learn and apply knowledge from coursework to real-world scenarios can make your resume stand out.

• Mid-level professionals

At this level, professionals should emphasize their growing responsibilities and achievements. Emphasizing career progression, such as promotions or taking on more significant projects, demonstrates that you’ve developed expertise and can handle increased responsibility. Be sure to include specific examples of how your work has contributed to team or company success, such as improving efficiency or driving revenue.

• Senior-level and executive roles

Job descriptions for these roles should focus on strategic initiatives, leadership, and the impact of your decisions on the business. Detail your role in driving business growth, restructuring teams, or leading high-level negotiations. Demonstrating your ability to make strategic decisions and lead large teams or projects will emphasize your suitability for top-level positions.

Job Description Tips for Resume

• Customizing job descriptions for each application

One of the most important tips for writing job descriptions is customizing them for each job application. Tailor your descriptions to match the specific requirements of the role you’re applying for, using language and keywords from the job posting. This shows that you’ve paid attention to the job ad and helps your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).

• Keeping descriptions concise and focused

Brevity is crucial when writing job descriptions. Hiring managers often skim resumes, so ensure your descriptions are concise and easy to read. Avoid including unnecessary details or listing every responsibility you had in a role. Instead, focus on the most impactful aspects of your job, highlighting achievements and responsibilities directly relevant to your target role.

• Using keywords from the job description

Incorporating relevant keywords from the job posting into your resume can significantly improve your chances of being selected by ATS. Review the job description carefully, picking out industry-specific terms, skills, and qualifications that match your experience. Using these keywords strategically throughout your job descriptions can improve your resume’s compatibility with automated systems and human reviewers.

Resume Job Description Examples

• Example for a sales position

Emphasize targets, achievements, and relationship management. A well-written job description for a sales role could read: “Exceeded quarterly sales targets by 20% by building strong relationships with clients and identifying upselling opportunities. Led a team of five sales representatives, coaching them to increase client retention by 15%.” This example demonstrates both leadership and measurable results.

• Example for a marketing position

Campaign management and analytics are critical areas to accentuate. An example job description might state: “Developed and executed digital marketing campaigns that increased website traffic by 30% and drove a 25% increase in online sales. Analyzed performance metrics to optimize content strategy, resulting in a 10% boost in conversion rates.” This example demonstrates both creativity and data-driven decision-making.

• Example of a project management position

Focus on delivering results within deadlines and managing stakeholders. An example could be: “Managed a cross-functional team of 10 to deliver a $2 million project on time and under budget. Coordinated with stakeholders across departments to meet project milestones, achieving a 95% client satisfaction rating.” This description emphasizes leadership, financial oversight, and collaboration.

• Example of a technical role

Technical roles benefit from conveying technology skills and system expertise. A strong description might read: “Led the development of a cloud-based solution, reducing data processing time by 40%. Implemented new security protocols that improved system uptime by 15% and reduced vulnerabilities. Proficient in Java, Python, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) architecture.” This displays both technical prowess and measurable results.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Writing Job Descriptions

• Being too vague or general

One of the most common mistakes is not being more specific in job descriptions. Phrases like “responsible for” or “involved in” do not provide enough detail. Instead, specify what you did and the results of your work. For example, instead of saying “responsible for sales,” say “achieved a 20% increase in sales through targeted marketing strategies.”

• Overloading with jargon

Using industry-specific language is important; overloading your resume with jargon can make it difficult for hiring managers or recruiters to understand your experience. Strike a balance using clear, concise language that demonstrates your expertise while remaining accessible to non-technical audiences.

• Ignoring the posting key requirements

Another mistake is not tailoring your job descriptions to the key requirements of the job posting. Review each posting carefully and adjust your resume to reflect the skills and experience the employer seeks. Ignoring these details can make it harder for your resume to stand out.

Job Description Tips for Resume

• Proofreading and reviewing for clarity

Before submitting your resume, check that it is free of grammar and spelling errors. A polished resume demonstrates attention to detail, which is essential in any role. Reviewing for clarity helps make your job descriptions easy to understand and impactful.

• Getting feedback

Seek input from trusted peers, mentors, or career advisors on your resume. Fresh eyes can provide valuable insights and help you refine your descriptions for maximum impact.

• Keeping job descriptions updated

Update your resume regularly as you gain new responsibilities or achievements. Keeping job descriptions up-to-date ensures your resume reflects your most current and relevant experience, positioning you for success in future job searches.

Additional Resources

• Links to resume templates with job description examples

  • Entry-level
  • Executive
  • Professional

• Online tools for resume writing and optimization

  • How To List Work Experience on a Resume
  • How To Use Bullet Points on a Resume
  • Using action verbs in resume job descriptions

• Career advice articles and job application tips

  • CIO: Ten resume tips
  • The Cut: Make a resume interviewers want to read
  • Jobillico: Mastering the art of resume writing

Andrew Stoner

Executive Resume Writer and Career Coach

Andrew Stoner is an executive career coach and resume writer with 17 years of experience as a hiring manager and operations leader at two Fortune 500 Financial Services companies, and as the career services director at two major university business schools.