How Do I Say "I'm the Best" on My Resume?
Kent R.
You’re viewing an archived post. This post was originally published by The Change Laboratory, which is now part of No Vacation Required — our platform for Everyday Fulfillment. While this content is archived, it’s still full of solid advice and timeless insights.
Q. I want readers to know that I am the best. I want to tell them I'm awesome and that they would be crazy not to hire me. How do I do that?
A. Short answer: Don't tell, influence.
Long answer: Your question makes it clear that you already understand that you can't simply say "I'm awesome." Readers' eyes would roll so far back in their heads that they'd have to go out on benefits.
Your only real option is to influence readers to come to their own conclusion that you are awesome. And that is achieved by speaking to clear, specific achievements. Tell readers about the awesome things that you have accomplished and the awesome ways in which you made a positive impact on your past employers, and they will decide for themselves that you are awesome.
This may seem like an over-the-top question, but it's not. Desperation brings people to say a lot of ineffective things on their resumes. Resist the urge to blurt out superlative statements.