Some experts are of opinion that modesty is the best policy in resume writing and that less is more. However, if you want to be different from the rest and get noticed, keep this saying at bay. That does not mean you boast around describing your achievements, but make sure they receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve. This is important as the accomplishment section of the resume helps in getting higher salary for the applicant.
Concrete Proof of Work Done
The accomplishments section is a proof of the abilities of the applicant. On the other hand, the key skills and responsibilities section appear as promises of giving performance. Here the advantage is that the accomplishments section works as concrete proof for the employer to evaluate the potential talents of the applicant. It helps profusely in getting higher salaries as the applicant can stress on his efficiency and capability to contribute in the growth of the organization.
Way of Writing Accomplishments
Effort-Result-Target Format
The accomplishment statement should include 3 aspects - target, effort and result. It should bring out the target that was set for you, the effort applied by you and the result it bought forth. This gives a clear idea to the recruiter about the whole task handled by you. It also displays your perseverance and contributions in attaining that goal. Hence, this style of writing makes the section self-explanatory and makes the interviewer consider your efforts highly while deciding salary for you, even before the interview round.
Quantifying Accomplishments
Instead of just including a statement of your achievements, quantify them for better understanding and impression. One can include time limits, percentages, statistics, money etc within the achievements to explain the achievements.
Some Examples:
Performance Appraisals
Ideally, performance appraisals are not included in the resume. However, make sure you discuss that during the interview round. Within the experience section, include a reference of your promotion or appraisal such that it gets noticed and discussed during the interview. Do this to prove your abilities of performing and excelling in the given task within the set work environment. The employer looks forward in the resume to this major accomplishment. This can be a basis for the applicant to negotiate salary.
Prove What you Deserve
The accomplishments should reflect your ability to deliver quality performance and excel well with minimum inputs. Make your accomplishments talk loud and clear about your potentials. They should compel the recruiter to give you the amount you deserve without much deliberation. Impressive achievements will help you during salary negotiations as well, as they provide a basis to prove your worth.
The accomplishments help to convince the employer of the value addition made by the applicant to the organization. Employers seek that important factor in their prospective employees and so are willing to pay higher salaries to ensure the employee's recruitment in their organization. Hence, the key to earn the right salary would be to enhance the accomplishments section.