How to write an Entry-Level Actuary Resume in 5 Steps
Writing a resume can be a bit intimidating, but when it comes to those in the actuarial field the stakes are even higher. Actuaries analyse risk and help companies make critical decisions, so writing the perfect resume is an absolute must. Whether you are an entry-level candidate or a seasoned professional, tailoring an effective resume for maximum impact is key. Here are five tips you should follow when writing an entry-level actuary resume.
1. Focus on Achievements First
Start your job history section off with a bang. Present yourself as time-saving, professional, and a standout from the crowd by emphasizing your greatest achievements. As an entry-level candidate, these will be relevant interning or educational positions, awards, memberships in professional societies, and projects completed. Tailor each achievement to the position you are applying for and be sure to emphasize successes in essential skills such as decision-making, mathematics, and interpreting data.
Achievement-Based Bullet Points
Paint a compelling story with each bullet point describing an achievement. Use numbers, percentages and other metrics to show your tangible effects. For example: “Successfully created an actuarial pricing model that reduced risk costs by 8 percent.”
Extracurricular Activities
Include any extracurricular activities that have aided in the development of your skills and perhaps a few positive traits related to successful actuarial work, e.g., team sports, competitive puzzles, etc.
2. Use the Perfect Format
The format of your resume is crucial. An actuary will likely peruse your resume in a few seconds, so you need to take the time to make sure it ‘pops’ on the page. Use a crisp, professional layout style that appeals to a range of readers, including those assessing resumes on a computer.
Limit Your Length
Keep your resume to a maximum of two pages. Reasonably prioritize your qualifications, experiences and achievements. Use the CAR approach to demonstrate how you ‘conquered’ a challenge, i.e., why were you given the task and what did you do?
Keep It Readable
Include plenty of white space to separate blocks of text and to draw attention to key points. Use section headings and concise phrases rather than long sentences and paragraphs. Select an easy-to-read font e.g., Arial, Times New Roman, and avoid using more than two font styles. Too much variation makes it hard to read.
3. Showcase Keywords and Skills
Carefully demonstrate your most relevant experience, knowledge, and qualifications. It can be advantageous to include a wide range of skills when creating an actuarial resume. Tailor each item to the specific position you are applying for and aim to use keywords directly related to entry-level skills such as: intermediate understanding of Actuarial Standards of Practice, complex probability calculations and risk assessment experience.
Demonstrate All Your Skills
Be sure you list all of the qualifications you possess that show you are prepared for the role. If have anything from insurance and banking experience to an Excel certification, add it to your resume. Listing other skills in this field gives the reader an insight into your competency and broad knowledge base.
Team Player Qualities
Actuaries are a part of huge teams, so it is important to show that you possess the qualities needed to be part of a team. Showcase any experience that you have had in leading, working with, and coordinating a team.
4. Customize Your Resume to the Job Offer
Every role that you apply to should be treated with a custom resume tailored specifically to that job offer. Don’t use the same resume for different roles. Review the job offer and consider which skills, knowledge, and qualifications align the most.
Don’t Just List Job Responsibilities
Steer clear of simply listing broad job responsibilities. Recruiters or employers see this every day, so look for ways you can stand out from the competition.
Highlight Achievements
Highlight successes—who does not want to employ someone who is a proven success? If a particular success of yours aligns with the job offer, make sure the reader knows about it.
5. Always Check Your Work
Strong proofreading skills are essential for writing an effective actuary resume. Make sure to double or even triple-check phone numbers and dates. As an entry-level candidate, chances are you are applying to a plethora of roles, so you also need to make sure that you have removed the job specifications of a previous role before applying to a different one.
Check Your Grammar
Before submitting your resume, review the grammar and spelling of every sentence. Have someone proofread for a fresh set of eyes and weed out any errors that you may have overlooked.
Make Sure Everything is Accurate
Your employment history needs to be completely accurate, with dates that make sense and employers who you know will verify your work.
People Also Ask
What Skills Should an Entry Level Actuary Have?
An entry-level actuary should be highly proficient in statistics, problem solving, and Excel, as well as have an understanding of risk assessment and financial modeling.
What Should an Entry Level Actuary Put on a Resume?
An entry-level actuary should put an emphasis on achievements, highlighting relevant internships and educational positions while also demonstrating key skills such as decision-making and mathematics.
How Long Should an Entry Level Actuary Resume Be?
An entry-level actuary resume should be kept to a maximum of two pages. Prioritize qualifications, experiences, and successes to give the reader a complete but concise picture of the candidate’s profile.
What Type of Font Should an Actuary Use on a Resume?
An actuary should use an easy-to-read font such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri on their resume.
Final Words
Writing an effective resume to show potential employers that you are the right fit for the job should not be taken lightly. By following these tips, you can ensure that your resume is tailored to actuary positions and catches the eye of recruiters. An entry-level actuary should demonstrate their successes, display their skills, customize their resume, and pay extra attention to proofreading to make sure they are putting their best foot forward.