Writing Effective Bullets

Effective bullets paint a compelling picture for potential employers of what the applicant can do for their company or organization. To start, decide what take home message (THM) you want the reader to draw from you r bullet (as shown below). Then use relevant details (i.e., examples, results, methods, numbers, etc.) to backup the message.

Skill + Context + Result

Example/Context for Clarity

Analyzed team statistics to determine weekly training meeting topics and teaching methods, which assisted in achieving group improvement goals Result/Accomplishment of helping to
THM: Analytical Thinking, Goal Oriented, Leadership reach goals showed that they made good decisions from analyzing numbers.

Skill + Timeline for Context

Used numbers and timelines to backup/prove quick learning skills.

Adapted successfully to entirely different responsibilities, as training increased four times within three months
THM: Quick Learner The skill is not stated in the bullet. Instead it is implied through the THM.

Result + Method

Context is briefly mentioned to show diversity.

Gained an appreciation for people of all cultures, nationalities, and circumstances through consistent daily service
THM: Understanding of others, Caring, Compassionate Method; how s/he gained that appreciation for others. Numbers and examples help show the employer that the applicant really does have these qualities.

Skill + Numbers and Example

Demonstrated dependability and hard work ethic while working 10-hour daily construction shifts with 100% The bullet may be awkward or confusing if attendance dependability was implied in the THM. In
THM: Hard Working and Dependable some rare cases it could be appropriate to specify the skill in the bullet.

October 2009 Draft I

Enhancing Your Bullets

Note:
The applicant is applying for a lead administrative assistant position with a competitive real estate appraisal company. This company is drawn to rsums where applicants use bullets in a way that proves their past success in previous positions.

Before
The applicants bullets in the BEFORE state are ambiguous and focus more on duties, rather than skills & accomplishments. The applicant has vaguely told the reader, but has not specifically shown the reader, what she can do for the potential employer. Administrative Assistant Jan 2005 Aug 2008 Jensen Appraisal Company Germantown, PA Conducted research on properties Assisted in appraisal report compilation, editing, and generating Corresponded with current and potential clients; ran accounts payable/receivable system Completed misc. office paperwork/errands

Improvement Process
The applicant brainstormed the skills she demonstrated and the accomplishments she achieved in this position. She then substantiated her past successes and current capacities by incorporating these vital words and phrases into her bullets. What did I accomplish for company, co-workers, and/or clients? Maintained organization amid constantly chaotic circumstances which literally kept this small business going and enhanced quality of product provided to customers Saved company LOTS of money by avoiding IRS audit fees and tracking down payments for delinquent accounts Maintained effective working relationships with clients What skills did this require? (Note: symbols denote ex. of skill in next) People skills* Problem-solving/research Adaptability/flexibility Business judgment Work well under pressure Organization/attention to detail Appraisal software competence

After
The applicants bullets now paint a powerful picture for the potential employer of what the applicant can do to meet their companys needs. Administrative Assistant Jan 2005 Aug 2008 Jensen Appraisal Company Germantown, PA Increased company capacity to serve more clients by being conscientious, highly adaptable, and thriving under pressure throughout all aspects of the appraisal report production process Utilized *exceptional communication and problem resolution capacities to maintain effective relationships with existing and new clients Acquired proficiency in real estate research processes and appraisal software such as Alamode, ACI, Apex, and RMLS, which increased product quality, and decreased turnaround time for clients Maximized *persuasion capacities and business savvy to collect funds from delinquent accounts, which recovered thousands of company dollars annually