Introduction:
Writing a resume for a project management position can be tricky for entry level job seekers. To make sure your resume stands out, developing a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals and aligning your skills to match the job requirements is essential. Boost your chances of success by following the advice in this guide on how to write an entry-level project management resume.
1. Create a Detailed Outline
Project management is an incredibly detailed and meticulous job. To accurately show how dedicated and organized you are to an employer, it’s recommended to build an outline of your resume. Make sure to utilize headers between different sections, such as education, skills, and experience to give the employer a good overview of your abilities.
A. Formatting Options
There are several formats available for resumes and a project manager should use whatever makes their experience stand out the most. Some popular formatting options are reverse chronological, functional, and combination. Make sure to choose whichever one provides the best information and clarity.
B. Adjusting Fonts
You also want to make sure your resume is well formatted by choosing a professional font and size. Using basic fonts such as Calibri and Cambria guarantees easy readability, while larger fonts can be used to emphasize headings. Also, make sure to leave plenty of whitespace to draw attention to the sections.
2. Showcase Relevant Skills
In addition to outlining the sections of education, experience, and achievements, employers expect to see a detailed list of the skills and abilities you possess. You can highlight these skills in a separate section, as part of your experience section, or in a few select bullet points. These skills might include organization, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, risk analysis, etc.
A. Assertive Language
When listing your skills it’s essential to use strong and assertive language. Instead of saying, “I’m proficient in project management,” you could say, “Expert in driving successful projects with knowledge of different methodologies”. This type of language adds to the impact of your resume and shows the employer that you are serious about the position.
B. Relevant Exercises
Another way to highlight your skills is to share any relevant exercises you may have done in the past. For instance, to emphasize the ability to manage and use resources you may want to talk about an example of a successful project and how you delegated your tasks. Providing real-life references of your abilities will give employers a better understanding of your actual abilities.
3. Highlight Your Experience and Education
Your past experience and education should be at the forefront of your project management resume. This is a great opportunity to show the employer your achievements, such as developing successful projects, leadership and collaboration tools, as well as your educational background in project management.
A. Professional and Educational Accomplishments
When detailing your experience and education make sure to list any certifications that are relevant, such as a PMP or Six Sigma, to demonstrate your interest and dedication to the field. Additionally, include any projects that have successfully gone under your management and the final outcome. If applicable, include any awards you may have received and the reasons why you received it.
B. Clear and Concise Content
You don’t need to provide an in-depth analysis of each item on your list of experience or awards. Instead, use clear and concise language that doesn’t take up too much of the employer’s time. Also, make sure the employer can draw a clear link between your experience and the position you are applying for.
People Also Ask
What skills should I list on a project management resume?
When listing your skills, it’s important to include project management specific skills such as organization, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, risk analysis, etc.
What are the different types of project management resumes?
Popular formatting options for project management resumes are reverse chronological, functional, and combination.
What font is best for a resume?
The best font for a resume is a basic font such as Calibri or Cambria. Use a larger font to emphasize headings.
What should I include in a project management resume?
Include sections such as Education, Skills, and Experience, as well as any certifications relevant to the job. Be sure to list any projects that have successfully gone under your management and the final outcome, any awards you may have received, and clear and concise language explaining why you are well suited for the job.
What should the order be for a project management resume?
The order of a project manager resume generally follows the structure of contact information, education, skills, experience, achievements, and interests.
Conclusion
Following the advice in this article will help make sure your entry-level project management resume stands out. It’s important to be detailed yet concise, using clear and assertive language to increase the impact of your application. To ensure success, start by making a detailed outline of your resume, showcase relevant skills, and highlight your experience and education.