How To Write A Present Tense Resume? Get Hired Faster

The traditional resume has long been a staple of job applications, but in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing job market, it’s time to rethink the way we present our skills and experiences. One approach that’s gaining traction is the present tense resume, which focuses on the skills and actions you’re currently utilizing, rather than just listing past achievements. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of present tense resumes, exploring what they are, how to write one, and why they can be a game-changer in your job search.

What is a Present Tense Resume?

A present tense resume is a type of resume that emphasizes your current skills, experiences, and achievements, written in the present tense. Instead of saying “Managed a team of 10 people,” you would say “Manage a team of 10 people.” This subtle shift in verb tense can make a significant difference in how your resume is perceived by hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS). By focusing on what you’re currently doing, you’re showcasing your relevance, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a rapidly changing work environment.

Benefits of a Present Tense Resume

So, why should you consider writing a present tense resume? Here are just a few benefits:

• Increased relevance: By highlighting your current skills and experiences, you’re demonstrating your ability to contribute to a company’s current needs.
• Improved visibility: Present tense resumes often perform better in ATS, as they’re more likely to match the keywords and phrases used in job postings.
• Enhanced credibility: By emphasizing your current achievements, you’re showing that you’re a proactive, results-driven professional who’s always looking for ways to improve and grow.

How to Write a Present Tense Resume

Writing a present tense resume requires a bit of creativity and strategic thinking. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Start with a strong summary: Begin your resume with a professional summary that highlights your current skills, experience, and achievements. Use present tense verbs like “Develop,” “Manage,” and “Create” to set the tone for the rest of your resume.
2. Use action-oriented language: Throughout your resume, use action-oriented language to describe your current responsibilities and achievements. Instead of saying “Responsible for,” say “Lead,” “Develop,” or “Improve.”
3. Focus on current projects: Instead of just listing your past work experience, focus on the projects you’re currently working on. Describe your role, responsibilities, and achievements in the present tense, using verbs like “Design,” “Build,” and “Implement.”
4. Emphasize soft skills: In addition to highlighting your technical skills, be sure to emphasize your soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Use present tense verbs like “Collaborate,” “Communicate,” and “Analyze” to demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others.

Example of a Present Tense Resume

Here’s an example of what a present tense resume might look like:

Summary Manage a team of 10 people, developing and implementing marketing strategies that drive engagement and conversion. Create and execute social media campaigns, analyzing results and adjusting strategies to optimize performance.

Work Experience

• Marketing Manager, XYZ Corporation (2020-Present)
  • Develop and implement marketing campaigns across multiple channels, resulting in a 25% increase in sales.
  • Manage a team of 10 people, providing coaching and guidance to ensure successful project outcomes.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and launch new products, resulting in a 50% increase in customer acquisition.
• Digital Marketing Specialist, ABC Agency (2018-2020)
  • Create and execute social media campaigns, resulting in a 50% increase in followers and a 25% increase in engagement.
  • Analyze campaign results, adjusting strategies to optimize performance and achieve clients’ goals.

Tips for Making Your Present Tense Resume Stand Out

While writing a present tense resume is a great way to showcase your skills and experiences, it’s not enough to simply change the verb tense. Here are some additional tips for making your resume stand out:

• Use keywords and phrases: Use relevant keywords and phrases from the job posting to describe your skills and experiences.
• Quantify your achievements: Use specific numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work.
• Highlight transferable skills: Emphasize the skills and experiences that are transferable to the job you’re applying for, even if they’re not directly related.
• Use action-oriented language: Use action-oriented language throughout your resume to describe your responsibilities and achievements.

FAQ Section

In conclusion, writing a present tense resume is a great way to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements in a way that’s relevant, engaging, and optimized for ATS. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a resume that stands out from the crowd and helps you get hired faster. Remember to focus on your current skills and experiences, use action-oriented language, and highlight your achievements in a way that’s quantifiable and relevant to the job you’re applying for. With a present tense resume, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job and taking your career to the next level.