Does your resume include “I” statements?

Resume writing is a different form of writing. There are separate rules, standards, grammar and spelling expectations. One of them is the use of first person pronouns like “I”, “me”, and “my”.

Never use the word ‘I’ in a resume or other first person pronouns. Especially in your objective or career summary.

First of all, even though your resume is about you, it really should not be ALL about you. The employer isn’t interested in what you want, they’re interested in how you can meet their needs and solve their pain points.

As harsh or sad as that may sound it is true. When they look at your resume they are scanning it to see if you have the preliminary skills and abilities they need in their ideal candidate.They’re asking, is this person a fit?

If you pass the initial scan then you will receive a more thorough evaluation. One of the most detrimental things you can do to your resume is write it in the narrative, or say I want a position that is XYZ. Most hiring managers view this as a resume error.

Instead, write all of your documents in implied first person without the use of pronouns. Think of your resume as a brag sheet that someone else is writing about you. Think of all the things you would want someone else to say about you as an employee if they were giving your potential employer a recommendation about you. Then put that information into your resume.

Most people struggle to brag about themselves so be sure to stay away from overinflated language and stick to the facts. Using numbers and quantifiable accomplishments are a great way to do this.

Also, try switching out passive language for active language. You’ll find 178 action verbs and high-impact phrases in this free PDF guide I created. Download it now and make some simple, quick changes for an immediate improvement in your resume.