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How to List an Internship on a Resume (With Examples)

• When to Include Internships

When to Leave Out Internships

Where to put internships, how to include internships.

• Work Experience Section Example
• Internships Section Resume Example

In today’s competitive job market, a relevant internship can set you apart from other job applicants. This is especially true if you are a student or recent graduate with little work experience, or if you are changing careers.

Don’t hide your internship experiences at the bottom of your resume. Instead, highlight your internship experiences, and detail how they have prepared you for the job you want.

Here's how and where to put an internship on a resume, what to list, and examples of resumes that include internships.

When to Include Internships on Your Resume

You should include an internship on your resume when the internship is relevant to the job you are applying for. This is especially the case when you are a student or recent graduate with limited work experience. Internships provide you with critical experience in an industry, so be sure to include them to show your skills and abilities.

You should also include internships when you are making a career change. While you might have many years of work experience, these jobs might not relate to your new career. Highlight any internships that have prepared you for a job in your new industry.

You can begin to remove internships from your resume when you’ve developed enough work experience in your field. After about five or so years (or two or three jobs) in your industry, you can focus primarily on this work history rather than on your past internship experience.

If you held a particularly prestigious internship in your field, you might keep it on your resume for a bit longer.

For example, if you had an internship at Google or Facebook, or another important internship in your industry, keep it on your resume.

Internships can be listed in the employment history section of your resume. Or, you can create a separate section that highlights the internships you've done.

Work Experience Section: Because internships provide important work experience, you can include your internships in the “ Work Experience ” or “Work History” section of your resume, along with other jobs you have held.

Internships Section: If you have held multiple internships, you can include a separate “Internships” section on your resume. Put this section towards the top of your resume. Put your “Internships” section above your “Work History” section if your internships are particularly relevant to the job you are applying for.

Whatever you do, don’t put your internships at the bottom of your resume or in the “ Education ” section. Internships are real-world experiences, and should be given as much weight as a job.

When you include an internship on your resume, include the same information as any other job:

• Include the internship title. If possible, don’t just say “Intern” – ask your supervisor if you have a more detailed title, such as “Marketing Intern” or “Sales Associate Intern.”
• List the details. Also include the company name, location, and the dates of the internship. You can list the dates by month and year, or by the season (such as “Summer 2021” or “Spring 2022”).
• Include your responsibilities. Underneath this information, include 2-4 bullet points that list your responsibilities and achievements during the internship.

Focus on responsibilities that relate to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a writing job, mention how you wrote and published five articles during your internship. You don’t need to include your less relevant tasks, such as answering phones or photocopying.

If you are having trouble deciding what responsibilities and achievements to include, start by making a long list of everything you did at each internship. Then look at the  job listing  for the position you’re applying for. Circle anything from your list that  matches the skills or abilities required for the job . Highlight these particular experiences.

Also ask your intern supervisor for advice on how to include your internship on your resume. He or she can help you highlight the most important skills and experiences for the industry, and can tell you what  key terms  from your industry to include.

Make sure that you format your internships in a way that is consistent with the way you format your other work experience.

Again, internships are just as important to your career as a job, so you don't need to format them differently. This is especially the case if you include internships under “Work History.” For example, if you bold your job titles, do the same for your internship titles.

Example of Internships in a “Work Experience” Section

This is an example of a “Work Experience” section of a resume that includes two internships.

WORK EXPERIENCE

New York History Museum New York, NY Academic Programs Intern Jan. 2021 – May 2021

• Developed and ran activities for museum visitors ages 5-15 for February and April school break programs
• Wrote five articles for monthly newsletter with 5,000 readers
• Conducted research on latest curriculum standards and reported findings in presentation to Education Department

Albany History Society Albany, NY Education Intern Summer 2020

• Developed and implemented activities for museum visitors ages 4-10 related to new museum exhibit on the history of transportation
• Collaborated with Education Department to develop and run an all-day history workshop for elementary students
• Received award for Outstanding Intern of the Summer from the President of the Society

Resume Example With an "Internships" Section

Here is a complete resume that highlights the job candidate’s internship experience in a dedicated “Internships” section. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Microsoft Word), or read the text version below.

Resume Sample With an "Internships" Section (Text Version)

Sarah Jones Dallas, TX 75001 (555) 456-7890 sarah.jones@email.com

QUALIFICATIONS PROFILE Highly creative, trend-savvy emerging professional positioned to excel within fast-paced digital marketing environment. Well-versed in SEO strategy development, keyword research, and website optimization. 

• Superb writing and graphic design talents complemented by ability to easily build rapport within social media venues including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and LinkedIn.
• Practical “hands’ on” internship experience in segmented email campaign development and social media management.
• Technical Proficiencies : Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress, Campaign Builder, Google AdWords, Google Analytics, Facebook Analytics; advanced command of HTML and CSS.

Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing (2021); GPA 3.7 Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX Betta Gamma Sigma Honor Society; Golden Key

INTERNSHIPS

MAJOR MARKETING CORPORATION, Dallas, TX Marketing Intern , April 2021–June 2021 Tasked with creating and launching daily eblasts and calls-to-action for high-velocity email campaigns. Identified target audiences, tracked unsubscribes, and monitored spam complaints.

• Honed expertise in template design, A/B testing deployment, market analytics, and lead management.
• Recognized by senior management for success in landing 89% of lead conversions.

WESTERN GEAR, Dallas, TX Social Media Intern , September 2020–December 2020 As intern for upscale clothing retailer, wrote and scheduled posts on social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Took and edited digital photographs of sales items; generated and analyzed social media performance reports using Google Analytics and Facebook Analytics.

• Increased Facebook audience by more than 2,000 “likes” by actively managing user conversations and encouraging repeat engagement.
• Launched and built company’s first-ever Pinterest and Instagram sites.

DALLAS CLOTHIERS, Dallas, TX Sales Assistant , June 2019–June 2021 Concurrent with education, provided attentive customer service to clients of family-owned clothing boutique. Merchandised products and assisted clients with their selections. Operated POS system.

• Used WordPress to create new digital sales website for store.

NACE. " What Employers Seek on a Resume ," Accessed Feb. 15, 2022.

Vault. " 100 Best Internships for 2020 ," Accessed Feb. 15, 2022.

How to write an internship resume (+ an example)

Your resume is an important part of securing your dream internship. See how to write an amazing internship resume with an example below.

How to write an internship resume (with an example)

Are you ready to bridge the gap between what you’ve learned in school and the real world? Do you want to learn new skills, build connections, and make your mark in your chosen industry? Internships serve as stepping stones during your professional journey and provide opportunities for personal and career growth.

Securing a great internship starts with a killer resume. Your professional resume is your ticket to the interview and your chance to impress potential employers from the get-go. That's why we've put together this helpful intern resume writing guide with six simple steps to help you create an internship resume that stands out.

From organizing your resume's structure to highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we'll even provide an example resume to guide and inspire you along the way.

Whether you're a college student eager to land your first internship or a recent graduate ready to make your mark, an effective internship resume is a game-changer. Let's jump right in and start crafting a resume that opens doors to exciting internship experiences.

How to write an internship resume in 6 steps

When it comes to internships, recruiters know that you might not have years of experience under your belt. But don't worry! The key is to highlight your potential, eagerness to learn, and genuine enthusiasm for the internship. Use each resume section to show how your qualifications and skills make you a valuable asset to the organization.

Step 1: Resume heading

Kick things off with a clear and professional header at the top of your resume, including all the essential contact information (full name, phone number, and email address). Ensure your email address sounds professional — avoid any wacky or unprofessional aliases — and consider adding a link to relevant social media accounts (like your LinkedIn profile).

Step 2: Objective or summary statement (optional)

A resume objective or resume summary statement gives hiring managers a sneak peek into your career goals by highlighting specific skills that make you perfect for the internship. Tailor this section to the internship you're after. Show them how your objectives align with the organization's goals.

Step 3: Education

The education section is your chance to show off your college or university experience. Tell them your major or area of study and consider including your GPA. Don't forget to mention any cool coursework that's relevant to the internship. If you're still in the process of getting your degree, give them a heads up on when you'll be crossing that graduation finish line.

Step 4: Work experience

In the experience section, include any internships, volunteer work (a great resume builder!), or any other relevant work history. Describe the tasks you handled and any achievements you rocked in each role. Focus on those transferable skills that make you a superstar — things like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and organization. Highlight how your previous professional experiences have set you up for success in this internship and contributed to your personal growth.

Step 5: Certifications/special projects/skills

This skills section showcases the professional certifications and specific soft skills (personal skills and abilities that can help in any job) or hard skills (technical or job-specific skills) that make you stand out from the crowd. Include any special projects or extracurricular activities that show your passion for the field, too. This is your chance to spotlight those unique skill sets and experiences that make you a true rockstar candidate.

Step 6: Awards & honors (optional)

If you've been lucky enough to receive any awards, honors, scholarships, or recognition for your academic or professional prowess, this is the perfect spot to showcase them. Highlighting your accomplishments shows your dedication and excellence and lets potential employers know you're a true go-getter.

Resume formatting tips

Let's talk about some other ways to make your internship resume shine. First off, keep it to a single page. Internships usually involve limited experience, so a concise resume works best. Be selective and focus on highlighting the most relevant information that showcases your qualifications.

When it comes to spacing, give your text some room to breathe. Leave enough white space between sections and paragraphs to make it visually appealing and easy to read. Break up the content using bullet points, headings, and subheadings to make it more organized and reader-friendly.

Stick to a legible font throughout your resume so it's easy on the eyes (aim for a font size of 10 or 11 points for the main content). You can make headings and section titles a bit larger (around 12 or 14 points) to create visual emphasis and hierarchy.

Margins matter, too! Ensure you have enough space on all sides of your resume. A margin size of 0.5 to 1 inch is standard and gives your resume a clean, professional look.

Lastly, don't forget to proofread for any grammar or spelling errors. A polished and error-free document shows your attention to detail and professionalism.

Following these tips to craft a well-organized, visually pleasing internship resume will make a memorable impression on potential employers and increase your chances of landing that dream internship.

You can also get help with formatting your resume by downloading our free internship resume template .

Internship resume example

Use this resume sample as a guide to create a resume that will dazzle hiring managers. Customize your resume based on the specific job description you are applying for.

[Your full name]

[City, state, ZIP code]

[Phone number]

[Email address]

[LinkedIn profile link]

Motivated and dedicated individual seeking an internship opportunity to gain practical experience and further develop skills in [specific field]. Committed to contributing to an organization’s success through a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a passion for learning.

Bachelor of [Degree], [Major]

[University Name], [City, State]

[Year of graduation]

Relevant coursework

• [Course 1]: [Course description]
• [Course 2]: [Course description]
• [Course 3]: [Course description]
• Technical skills: [List relevant technical skills (e.g., programming languages, software proficiency)]
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills demonstrated through [specific examples, such as presentations or publications]
• Problem-solving: Ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions
• Teamwork: Collaborative approach to working with diverse teams to achieve common goals
• Adaptability: Quick learner with the ability to thrive in fast-paced and changing environments
• Organization: Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines

Relevant work experience

[Company/Organization name], [Location]

[Position title], [Dates]

• [Responsibility 1]: [Describe your key responsibilities and achievements]
• [Responsibility 2]: [Describe your key responsibilities and achievements]

[Company/Organization Name], [Location]

[Position Title], [Dates]

[Project Name], [University/Company], [Dates]

• [Describe the project, your role, and the skills utilized or developed]
• [Highlight any notable achievements or outcomes]

Leadership and extracurricular activities

• [Describe your responsibilities and contributions]

Certifications

• [Certification 1]: [Certifying authority], [Year]
• [Certification 2]: [Certifying authority], [Year]

What about an internship cover letter?

When it comes to internship applications, a cover letter may not always be required (check the internship description for requirements) but it can make a world of difference. A carefully crafted cover letter has the power to make you shine amidst a sea of candidates and increase your chances of landing that coveted internship.

Read our tips for writing an internship cover letter , where we spill the secrets of how to write a killer cover letter that perfectly complements your resume and sets you up for success.

Which companies are hiring for internships on Handshake?

Land an amazing internship.

As you wrap up crafting your winning internship resume, remember that it's not just about the length or the formatting — it's also about showcasing your potential, passion, and unique qualities that make you a perfect fit for the internship. Tailor each section to align with the internship position and emphasize your relevant skills and experiences. With this resume as your tool, you're ready to make a lasting impression and land that dream internship.

Need help finding the perfect internship? Head over to Handshake , download our app, and create your profile. You’ll have access to the most opportunities of any job platform for students and new college grads, as well as tons of helpful advice and tips for launching your career.

Now go out there and get that internship!

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

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5 Internship Resume Examples to Jumpstart Your Career 

Internship Resume

• Internship Resumes A-N
• Internship Resumes M-Z
• Write Your Internship Resume

You’re a motivated professional who is eager to get into your ideal profession. You’re organized, timely, and know how to exceed exact specifications to wow employers.

Is your resume template capable of getting your career off to an excellent start?

Many internship candidates apply to roles without a ton of experience in their desired field. We’ve done the research to help you stand out with our internship resume examples that’ll help you showcase your skills successfully in today’s job market.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Highlighting interests in reading, blogging, and video production on this resume all work together to create an impression of a budding journalist that’s earned a competitive internship.

Accounting Internship Resume

• As Teddy does, show how you applied lessons learned at the workshop and how that has been a life-changing moment in your personal and career journey. Take a moment to tell the details of these stories when writing a cover letter .

College Internship Resume

• Weaving in examples of laboratory software you’ve used is more likely to land you a research assistant internship than simply listing relevant coursework.

Engineering Internship Resume

• Holding a leadership position in a technology club is a great accomplishment to highlight as an aspiring engineering intern.

Software Engineer Internship Resume

• Your career objective is an opportunity to demonstrate your passion for the field and your admiration for the company you’re applying to. While here, state your mission and how it aligns with the employer’s long-term plans.

Related resume examples

• Engineering
• Grad Student
• College Student

Use the Job Description to Your Advantage for Your Internship Resume

Every internship you apply for will come with a unique set of skills the company is looking for in applicants. Therefore, using a mix of skills you possess from education and previous work experience, like team collaboration and problem-solving, and what is emphasized in the job description will be ideal.

Many internship candidates wonder about what mix of hard and soft skills they can list. Ultimately, it comes down to the position you’re applying to. Jobs in technical roles like finance will want to see as many of your technical abilities as possible, such as budgeting. However, something more customer service-oriented would benefit from soft skills like communication.

Need some ideas?

15 best internship skills

• Customer Service
• Data Analysis
• Microsoft Office
• Workflow Documents
• Inventory Monitoring
• Inbox Sorting
• Problem-Solving
• Team Collaboration
• Efficiency Improvement
• Independent Research
• Office Administration
• Writing & Proofreading
• Task Prioritization

Your internship work experience bullet points

Many internship applicants won’t have a ton of work experience. However, this section is still important since hiring managers will want to know how you’ll apply your top skills to their workplace.

Try to pull as many relevant examples as possible from your previous work experiences or education in this section. For instance, jobs that involve customer service or data entry are usually very applicable. You can also include relevant projects you completed in school to provide more depth and career-specific examples.

Hiring managers will be really impressed if you use metrics within your examples to showcase what you’ve achieved. Let’s take a look at some popular metrics internship hiring staff love to see.

• Efficiency: As an internship candidate, you bring a fresh perspective. Showing how you can perform tasks more efficiently can be a great way to stand out.
• Satisfaction scores: Internships often involve working with customers or improving their experience, so this is always a good metric to include.
• Accuracy: Many internships involve data entry or organization tasks, so emphasizing how you perform accurately is a great idea.
• Sales revenue: Every business revolves around sales, so applying any experiences where you increased sales will make you stand out as an internship candidate.

See what we mean?

• Managed social media for a school publication, creating engaging posts in Canva to increase follower counts by 39%.
• Created learning opportunities for technology-focused workshops within the school as an EngageTech leader, resulting in a 53% increase in STEM class engagement.
• Collaborated with a student team on an innovation challenge to develop a sustainable solution that reduced energy costs for a community center by 21%
• Maintained accurate lab records, including experimental procedures, data logs, and quality control documentation, that adhered to regulatory standards with 98% compliance.
• Facilitated training workshops on database navigation and research strategies that grew attendance by 34%

9 active verbs to start your internship work experience bullet points

3 tips for creating an internship resume without much work experience.

• Any higher education or certificates you’ve completed are meant to prepare you for your field of choice. Therefore, you should use it to your advantage in internship resumes. For instance, what you learned about general ledgers in an accounting class would be great to include in a financial internship resume.
• A resume objective can help you display additional relevant skills you possess that aren’t accurately represented in other experiences. For instance, a few sentences about how you’ve maintained a 3.91 GPA in your marketing classes and have two years of customer service experience would be great for a sales internship.
• Any relevant hobbies & interests can also contribute to your skills and passion for a desired field. For instance, if you’re applying for a culinary internship, your time as a member of your school’s cooking club would be great to list.

3 Internship Resume Tips for Applicants with Some Experience

• Focus on jobs that are the most recent and most relevant to the position. For example, a previous job working at a nursing home would be much more relevant than your prior position as a shoe sales clerk if you’re applying to a nursing internship.
• Experienced internship applicants should list their most recent experiences first. It’ll be the most relevant to using current business technology or having applied skills you’ve gained from your education.
• Even if you have a lot of experience, hiring managers simply want a brief overview of your skills to make an easy decision. For instance, if you’re applying to a supply chain internship, keeping a focus on your key logistics planning skills to narrow the information down is a good idea.

Some internships may list the cover letter as optional. However, you should still include one. Try to use your internship cover letter to show how you connect to the company or how you’ll apply your key skills in the position. For example, a company focused on sustainability will enjoy hearing about how you were the head of your school’s waste management program.

You can make your resume stand out by using measurable examples and relating as much of your prior experience as possible to the position. For instance, using metrics in process improvement and efficiency would be great to include when applying for a project management internship.

A resume objective is a great idea if you don’t have much experience in your desired field. It’ll help you stand out by listing a few sentences about your most relevant experiences right away, like achieving high customer satisfaction scores or maintaining a great GPA in your core classes.

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Resume Examples & Samples

Internship resume - land the job in 5 steps.

Dayana Aleksandrova

Create a Resume in Minutes & Get More Job Interviews

Table of Contents

Introduce yourself the right way, showcase your most relevant courses, tailor your internship resume, how to leverage your hobbies and interests, who to ask for references.

It’s never too early to have a great resume. In fact, the internship resume is a must even in Freshman year. Where do you begin though, if you don’t have years of experience under your belt? Don’t worry. We’ll show you how to perfect your internship resume in 5 steps .

There are a few key things to remember when creating an internship resume. What seasoned professionals have are years of full-time work experience and in some cases, brand names to strengthen their candidacy.

What college students have going for them, on the other hand, is willingness to learn, energy and good theoretical knowledge. It’s key to leverage all of those aspects.

In this guide, we will teach you how to:

• Create an internship resume objective
• Showcase your most relevant courses
• Figure out how to present yourself as a good fit for the company
• How to leverage your hobbies and interests
• Choose the best references possible

VelvetJobs Expert Tip

Need help? Check out our resume builder .

#introduce-yourself-the-right-way

The summary is the intro to your resume. It aims to capture the recruiter's attention and quickly let them know what you do, what your industry is and why you're a great fit for the job.

Need inspiration? Check out these successful resume templates .

In the case of the internship resume, you won't have enough experience to write a summary, so you should go for a resume objective instead. The objective is a sentence or two explaining what skills you can leverage and why you should get the job.

Key information about the resume objective:

• Has to be 2-3 sentences at most.
• Must be clear and concise.
• Must explain clearly what your experience and education is.
• Should contain keywords from the job description.

Remember to keep the internship resume objective short and sweet. Two sentences will be plenty.

For example:

So why does this objective work?

• We know the level of education of the candidate - second-year student
• We know the name of the school - Boston College
• We know they study Economics which is directly relatable to the stock market
• The applicant tells us a bit about themselves - that they are "highly self-motivated" and "deeply analytical"

In these two short sentences, we find out quite a lot about the student. There is no need to go deeper than that in the internship resume objective. Recruiters like straightforward and clear information.

A good resume objective is a must for any internship resume. Learn all there is to know about it with our How to Write a Resume Objective: Guide and 30+ Examples guide!

#showcase-your-most-relevant-courses

The strength of the college internship resume lies in the education section. Since you don't have a decade of work experience behind you, your best bet is to show that you are actively pursuing a degree in a related field.

how do you choose the best courses to show on your resume?

• Talk about your relevant courses
• Include a brief description
• Use keywords from the internship description
• Include your grade if it's higher than a B
• Include your overall GPA if it's higher than 3.3

How do you talk about your relevant courses? First, study the industry and see what's applicable. For example, if you're applying for a Financial Analyst internship, mention that you're taking courses on investing, global politics and risk analysis.

Let's have a look at a sample internship description:

• Must be self-motivated and energetic
• Ability to work in a team and follow instructions
• Must have a target-oriented mentality, fulfill and preferably exceed quota

Responsibilities

• Make 200 cold calls a day
• Assist manager with risk analysis and research
• Perform field sales once a week

Since the responsibilities here include "risks analysis" and "research," go ahead and mention that you're taking a course on Economics & Stock Market Risk Analysis as well as the research that you've done in college.

It would look like this:

Relevant Courses

• Economics & Stock Market Risk Analysis

This course explores the history of the stock market from the 1930's till today, focusing on specific patterns of soaring stocks and significant dips. The course entails a great deal of research, where a 2,000-word analytical essay is submitted on a weekly basis.

The course description is tailored to the company's needs. It tells the recruiter that the student has a good knowledge of stock market patterns throughout history and does extensive research, which is one of the responsibilities.

Feel free to include all the relevant courses which have a connection to the internship. In the case of an internship resume, your education section can easily take up 50% of the page, if not more.

One thing to bear in mind here is that you don't have to include ALL the courses you take. If you're applying for a financial position and are taking an acting class, you should leave that out.

Recruiters are busy and want to be able to quickly skim a resume and know whether someone is a good fit or not. Help them ease the process.

How to write a course description

• Give a brief overview of what the course examines
• 1 or 2 sentences is enough
• Include activities that you do in the course - research, analysis, field work
• Include keywords that appear in the internship description
• Include your grade (if higher than B)

When it comes to grades, it's a good idea to include it if it's higher than a B. For example, if you're taking Econ 101 and have an overall grade of C+ , it really doesn't make you look good. If you're at an A-, on the other hand, definitely mention it.

While grades aren't necessary in your course description, that information can help. It's a good idea to list your GPA as an overview of your work if it's above 3.0.

# tailor-your-internship-resume

Tailoring any resume is crucial for getting the job, regardless of whether it's a full-time position or an internship. In fact, recruiters spend time writing job descriptions and criteria for their ideal candidate because they want to make the process as easy and quick as possible.

Use the recruiter's favorite words. What do we mean by this? Read the job description carefully and insert keywords . Let's look at the internship description again.

• Must be very self-motivated and energetic

The keywords here are:

SKILLS & MENTALITY - self-motivated , energetic, work in a team, target-oriented , fulfill and exceed quota.

ABILITIES - make cold calls, research, field sales.

There are no guessing games here. The recruiter states plain and simple what their intern must have in order to get the job. So what do you do with this knowledge? Insert it intelligently into your internship resume.

for example:

This objective hits most of the qualifications needed. The key here is not to copy word for word the job description. That's too obvious and may come across as fake.

Instead, find a way to rephrase it. For example, instead of saying "I can work in a team," say "team player." Instead of saying "I can assist the manager," show that you have experience assisting tenured professors.

It's important to include as much experience as possible to go with your relevant education. Now, what if you are a first-year student with no experience?

it would look like this:

In this case, the applicant can't rely on experience which is why they will talk about their "passion" and "interest" in the field. Everyone has to start somewhere, right? The recruiters know that well, so in this case, they will be looking for a hard-worker who's personality is a good fit.

Instead of saying "experience," the candidate says that they have "knowledge" of research. That's a great way to include the keyword "research" while telling the truth without exaggeration.

Finally, the student says that they would love to learn while following instructions which demonstrates initiative and includes another key phrase.

It's always essential to tailor your resume to the job, regardless of whether it's an internship resume or a full-time position. One resume won't fit all jobs, remember that.

A tailored internship resume is a good internship resume. Check out How and Why To Tailor Your Resume to the Job (10+ Examples)

# how-to-leverage-your-hobbies-and-interests

As we've already mentioned, college students aren't expected to have as much work experience as regular applicants or even recent graduates. This is why you have to work every angle in order to land the internship.

Make your hobbies and interests work for you. It's important to prove that you'd be a good fit for the company culture. How do you do that?

Research the company. Find out everything you possibly can about it - what events they organize for employees, what values they care about and what news they share.

the power of social media

There are a few social media channels you can use to your advantage in order to create the perfect internship resume.

• Twitter - see what news and updates the company posts. Twitter is quick and easy to use, so you will most likely see frequent updates there. Engage with the company by sharing, commenting and re-Tweeting .
• Instagram - startups especially love Instagram because it's trendy, sleek and fresh. See what photos the company posts and read the content. Post your own content on a similar theme.
• LinkedIn - this is the most professional way to engage with the company on social media. See what news and opinion pieces they post and re-post them. Write intelligent and insightful comments. The recruiter will notice you.
• Facebook - while Facebook is more of a personal social media outlet, you should have yours clean of anything controversial. You can easily use your profile to engage with the public Page of the company. Remember, write intelligent and meaningful comments to stand out.

Social media is your friend. You'll see it in all good resume templates Make sure that it represents you correctly. This is a great way to show your personality and stand out from the competition. Plus, many companies don't allow photos on a resume. Having a good LinkedIn photo will let the recruiter put a face to the resume. You're not just a bland piece of paper anymore!

Now that you know what the company values, it's time to once again TAILOR your internship resume accordingly.

Make a list of all your hobbies and interests. Then go over them and see which are relevant. How do you know which are relevant? The key is not in the hobby itself; it's the personality qualities it demonstrates.

For example, if you need to be a " self-motivated " worker and you like running 10K races, mention it. It takes a lot of physical and mental strength to engage in endurance running, so let your hobby speak about your strengths.

If the internship needs someone " analytical ," mention that your hobbies are to play sudoku or dominate at Monopoly. When it comes to showing that you are a "team player," mention the club sports you do in college.

The most important aspect of talking about hobbies and interests is that they show and not tell the type of person that you are.

That being said, not all hobbies and interests are created equal. There are 4 types of hobbies and interests recruiters love. It's good to have as many of these on your resume as possible.

4 types of hobbies & interests to put on an internship resume

• People-oriented

Let's have a look at what each of these categories entrails. The good news is that unlike full-time professionals who work at least 40 hours a week, college students have more time to pursue hobbies and interests.

CREATIVE HOBBIES

Show your creativity. If an internship position calls for someone who "thinks outside the box," mention one of the following:

• Mock trial team
• Creative writing
• School paper
• Improv acting
• Photography club
• Radio/ TV station

These interests and hobbies speak volumes about your creativity. Some, like chess club overlap creativity and analytical abilities, which is even better.

Athletic hobbies and sports clubs are always great to have on an internship resume. Why? Sports show a high level of motivation, team spirit, and physical strength. It's no secret that good athletes are well-admired .

Here are some examples of athletic hobbies and interests to include on your resume:

• Equestrian team

These can be either at varsity level or club sports. It's the involvement that counts. Playing sports shows stamina, high energy, and motivation. Every single internship position requires all three.

You get bonus points if you've got a leadership position on any of those teams, as it proves that you can be relied on and deal well with people.

PEOPLE-ORIENTED

Most internships will require good people skills, as you will be learning from supervisors, managers, and full-time employees. The key aspects here are to show that you accept advice and instructions well and are diplomatic.

Check out these hobbies and interests that demonstrate people skills:

• Mentor programs
• Debate club
• Student government
• Event planning
• Greek house involvement
• Volunteer projects
• Habitat for humanity
• Team sports

Demonstrating your communications skills through hobbies and interests is a great idea since it's no longer enough to just say "I'm a good communicator." You have to provide the proof.

College students have a great deal of freedom to be social and practice their people skills, as they have to be in class with dozens of others and interact with professors and roommates all day.

This is a great place to include your volunteer work, as it not only demonstrates your people-oriented personality but also your willingness to help others.

Finally, you should include some analytical hobbies and interests on your internship resume. Why do you need to show that you're analytical ? Many internships will require you to be detail-oriented , calculative and perform tasks with a great deal of thinking and concentration.

Let's look at some hobbies and interests with an analytical side:

• Investment club
• Teacher's assistant in math, computer science
• Philosophy club

One interesting thing here is that when it comes to proving that you're analytical , you don't necessarily have to show off hobbies that include numbers. For example, the investment club is a great choice but so is philosophy. Both require deep thought.

Ideally, you will have all 4 categories of hobbies and interests on your internship resume. If you don't though, just make sure to have those that are most relevant to the role.

# who-to-ask-for-references

References are a key part of any resume, be it an internship resume or a seasoned professional's. In the case of the college student, however, references are what can take you that extra mile.

Why is that? Well, while established professionals have their experience speak for them and can demonstrate promotions and awards, college students can't say the same.

So, who should you ask for references? Hint: the answer is not your parents.

While we're sure that you're very capable and your mom knows you better than anyone else, it has to be a person of authority who is relevant to the internship field.

Who to ask for references:

• Your college advisor
• Your professors in a field related to the internship
• Past employers
• Club leaders in whose organization you participate
• The professor liaison to a club you lead
• College officials (Dean's Office, event planning)
• College board of trustees
• Benefactors to the college who are sponsoring your studies

All of these are great references to have on your resume. Your college advisor is the professor closest to you who's helping you follow through with your studies and have a good college experience. Chances are that this person will know you well.

When asking professors for references, choose those who are relevant to the internship. For example, if you're applying for an internship in economics, a reference from your acting professor won't be as good as your Econ professor.

If you have any professional experience from summer jobs and internships, it's a good idea to ask your past employers for a reference. They can speak about your professional performance.

Are you involved in a club? Ask the professor liaison for a reference. Same goes for the coach if you're on a sports team.

If you can't think of any suitable professors or club leaders, you can turn to the college administration. If you help organize events, or lend a hand with administrative tasks, ask the supervisor to say a few words about you.

Finally, you can turn to college trustees or any sponsors whose donations are going towards your scholarship if you have one. If someone chooses to invest money in you, they'll definitely have something positive to say.

How To Ask For A Reference

Now that you've created a list of people to ask for a reference, how do you go about it? Check out this sample e-mail :

how to ask for an internship resume reference:

Dear Prof. Smith, I was hoping that you'd be so kind as to write me a brief internship reference. I am applying for the position of [Investment Intern] and given that I've taken two semesters of Investment Economics with you, I believe that you can give an honest opinion about my work ethic and skills. It would be much appreciated.

Please find a description of the internship position attached.

What we have here is a brief and clear note to the professor. Make it easy for them and say what you have to say in as few words as possible. Professors are busy people.

The student mentions the following:

• What position they are applying for
• What class they've taken with the professor and its duration
• A brief description of the intern position

Why is this important?

First of all, you have to mention what position you're applying for. Otherwise, the professor won't know what you're trying to showcase. In that case, the reference may end up being too general which you don't want.

Secondly, the student includes what class they've taken with the professor. Chances are that professors write at least a couple resumes per week, so don't take it personally if they can't recall their relationship to you.

Finally, the student includes some information about the internship. This makes it easier for the professor to TAILOR the reference .

Yes, references just like resumes get tailored. You want to be as specific and as relevant as possible.

One thing to remember here is to be very brief. Perhaps even include a few bullet points instead of the entire description. Professors don't have time to read internship requirements.

The same principle applies when you ask a past employer or a coach. Specify how they can be of use to your internship application. For example, if you send an e-mail to your rugby coach, you can say: "I'm hoping that you could say a few words about my work ethic and team spirit."

You have to tailor the email asking for help before the person you're asking can tailor your resume recommendation.

Once you've gathered a list of names and some recommendations, you can attach them to your resume file. Be sure to be concise and not add too much or irrelevant information.

Now let's do a quick recap of everything we've learned about preparing a great internship resume.

So, let's do a recap:

• You have to pull in the recruiter with a great introduction. This is your resume objective. Make it clear who you are, what you study, what experience you have and what you're trying to achieve.

This objective has to be tailored to the internship position and specific. Don't make it too general.

• Showcase your most relevant courses. Education is key on an internship resume. While full-time professionals can let their experience speak for them, college students don't have that yet.

Include every relevant course with a very brief description. Mention your grade if it's higher than a B and your overall GPA if it's better than 3.3 .

• Make yourself a good fit for the company by researching them. Go on LinkedIn , Twitter, Instagram and the company website to see what values they hold and what they care about.

Be genuine about your own values. Align them to those of the company but don't lie or exaggerate.

Leverage your hobbies and interests. Again, you have to use everything in your arsenal to make up for the fact that you don't have too much work experience and let your personality shine through.

• Remember to add keywords from the internship description. After all, this is why descriptions exist - so hiring managers can quickly and easily find the perfect candidate.

Refer to the 4 types of hobbies and interests recruiters love: creative , athletic , people-oriented and analytical are all great for an internship resume.

• Ask for references to attach to your resume. You can reach out to professors, your advisor , scholarship sponsors, past employers, team leaders if you participate in a club and sports coaches.

Try to incorporate as many of these essential practices as you can in your resume. It's a good idea to look into who the recruiter is. You can use LinkedIn for that.

It doesn't hurt to reach out via LinkedIn with an invite and a question on the application. This will grab the recruiter's attention and will demonstrate that you really are putting care into your internship resume.

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Job Responsibilities Examples: How to Describe Job Duties On Your Resume (+ 13 Templates)

3 key takeaways

• Job responsibilities serve as a guide for job seekers and a strategic tool for employers.
• Each job responsibility on your resume should include an action verb, task, and metric.
• Teal’s AI Resume Builder is the fastest way to craft effective job responsibilities.

Job responsibilities are the detailed tasks and duties assigned to a specific role within an organization. Which responsibilities you choose to showcase and how you chose to include them on your resume can make the difference in whether you move forward in the hiring process.

Properly communicating job responsibilities is equally important for job seekers as it is for companies. To craft an effective job description, an employer needs to accurately and concisely convey a role’s job requirements. Conversely, job seekers need to tailor their resumes to show how their current job responsibilities align with the current opportunity.

As a result, you should consider the impact of job responsibilities from two perspectives: the employer and the job seeker.

How to list job responsibilities on your resume as a job seeker

A resume should showcase your proven track record and potential. To elevate the descriptions of key responsibilities you’ve held in the past, try this success formula:

Action Verb + Task + Metric + [Strategy Optional] = Outcome  

For example, "Led a marketing team ( action verb + task ) to increase online engagement by 40% ( metric ) through a targeted social media campaign ( strategy ), resulting in a 15% increase in sales ( outcome )."

Here are some tips for writing effective job descriptions for your resume:

Quantify achievements

Wherever possible, use numbers and data to quantify your resume . Including concrete numbers legitimizes your ability to carry out the roles and responsibilities assumed by your title and outlined in the job description in question.

Mirror the job description

Examine the job listing closely and align your resume to it. Use similar language and emphasize related resume work experience most relevant to the new role.

Highlight relevant skills

Demonstrate how your skills directly correlate with the job duties listed. Make it easy for hiring managers to see you as the ideal candidate.

Customize your resume

No two job applications are the same. Tailor your resume for each job you apply to, focusing on how your background fits with each specific role.

For job seekers, a tailored resume that speaks to these key responsibilities can set you apart. For employers, clear and detailed job descriptions are your first step in attracting the right talent. 

Use these strategies to enhance your hiring processes or to refine your approach to applying for new roles.

How to use AI to write job responsibilities

Leveraging AI, Teal's AI achievement generator helps transform work experiences into quantifiable achievements. Teal prompts you to think about your roles in terms of measurable impacts and then suggests better ways to phrase those experiences to resonate with potential employers.

Plus, Teal’s Matching Mode feature allows you to tailor your resume to align perfectly with any job application, underlining the relevance of your skills to the defined role and highlighting your qualifications using the right keywords from the job postings.

Companies use recruiters to find top talent. Teal gives candidates equivalent tools for finding a job. It's your personal assistant in the job search process, saving you time, enhancing your applications, and helping you land interviews faster.

How to create comprehensive job descriptions as an employer

Crafting a detailed and comprehensive job description is crucial to attracting the right candidates and setting clear performance expectations. 

Here are best practices to key points to consider when writing a job description:

Be specific

Clearly define each task and responsibility. 

Avoid vague descriptions to minimize mismatches between job expectations and applicant assumptions.

❌ "Assist with project management tasks."

✅ "Collaborate with team members to develop project timelines, track progress, and ensure timely completion of deliverables."

Update regularly

Job roles evolve with industry standards and organizational changes. Ensure job postings are current and reflect the role accurately.

If the role of a sales representative now includes responsibilities in digital marketing, the job description should be updated to reflect this change. 

❌ Mention traditional sales techniques.

✅ Include digital marketing skills like “social media management” and “lead generation through online channels.”

Remember, this is dependent on the role and how that role is outlined in the job description. 

Incorporate keywords

Use industry-specific keywords and phrases. This not only helps attract the right candidates but also makes the job posting more searchable online.

❌ When hiring for a software engineer, you fail to list languages required.

✅ Include keywords like "Java," "Python," or "agile development" to appeal to candidates with relevant skills and experience. 

This will also help the job posting appear in search results when candidates search for these specific keywords. Teal’s AI Resume Builder helps you with this by analyzing the job description and incorporating the right words throughout your resume.

Include expectations

Beyond specific tasks, outline expected outcomes and performance metrics. This gives potential applicants a clear idea of how success is measured in the role.

❌ Only listing tasks for a customer service representative

✅ Include expectations like "Achieve customer satisfaction ratings of 90% or higher" or "Respond to customer inquiries within 24 hours." 

These metrics give applicants a clear understanding of the performance standards and expectations for the role.

Bad job responsibilities example for job description

Job Title: Sales Manager

• Manage the sales team
• Oversee the sales process
• Work with various teams
• Ensure customer satisfaction
• Meet sales targets

Good job responsibilities example for job description

• Lead and mentor a team of 12 sales representatives to hit quarterly team sales goals through individual coaching sessions and weekly team meetings
• Streamline the sales process by implementing a new CRM system by Q3 2023, with the goal of reducing sales cycle time by 20%
• Collaborate with Marketing, Product Development, and Customer Service teams to ensure alignment, aiming for a 15% year-over-year increase in customer retention
• Actively monitor customer satisfaction metrics using Net Promoter Score (NPS) and implement data-driven strategies to improve scores by at least 10 points within the next fiscal year

In these job responsibilities examples, roles are clarified with specific goals, day-to-day tasks,  metrics for success, and time frames. That level of specificity gives candidates a better idea of what success looks like for the role, helping them qualify themselves in or out to save both parties valuable time.

Job responsibilities examples by role

1. digital marketing manager, example job responsibilities for a digital marketing manager resume.

• Developed and executed comprehensive digital marketing strategies that increased online engagement by 35% within six months, leveraging platforms such as Google Ads, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Designed and optimized multiple digital advertising campaigns, resulting in a 25% reduction in cost per acquisition (CPA) and a 43% increase in conversion rate within one year.
• Monitored and analyzed key website and campaign performance metrics, using conversion data to refine strategies continuously. This approach improved campaign ROI by 51% across all digital channels.

Why it works for job seekers: Here, the applicant showcases their successful track record in increasing online engagement and conversions, demonstrating their ability to contribute significantly to a company's digital marketing objectives.

Example job responsibilities for a digital marketing manager job description

• Develop and execute digital marketing strategies across various channels, including LinkedIn, Instagram, the blog, and YouTube.
• Create and optimize digital advertising campaigns for a 10% increase in engagement
• Conduct market research to identify customer trends and insights
• Monitor and analyze website and campaign performance metrics
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align marketing efforts

Why it works for employers: It helps the hiring manager identify candidates with proven abilities to develop, execute, and optimize marketing strategies across various digital platforms effectively, ensuring maximum online visibility and engagement.

2. Sales Representative

Example job responsibilities for a sales representative resume.

• Proactively identified and pursued new sales opportunities, leading to a 30% increase in sales pipeline growth quarter-over-quarter through effective prospecting and networking strategies.
• Successfully negotiated and closed sales contracts that resulted in a 20% year-over-year increase in sales revenue.
• Delivered outstanding customer service, swiftly resolving any post-sale issues and concerns, leading to a customer satisfaction rating of 98% and generating positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Why it works for job seekers: This allows job seekers to demonstrate their direct contribution to sales growth and client satisfaction, underlining potential candidates as high-performing sales professionals.

Example job responsibilities for a sales representative job description

• Identify and pursue new sales opportunities through prospecting and networking
• Build and maintain relationships with clients and customers
• Conduct product demonstrations and presentations to potential clients
• Negotiate contracts and close sales deals
• Provide excellent customer service and resolve any issues

Why it works for employers: It attracts individuals who have a strong foundation in sales tactics, relationship-building skills, and the perseverance to identify and convert sales opportunities into tangible results.

3. Account Director

Example job responsibilities for an account director resume.

• Managed key client relationships, serving as the primary point of contact for over 15 high-value accounts, increasing client retention rates by 25% through personalized service and strategic account management.
• Implemented comprehensive customer service protocols, which enhanced client satisfaction scores by 30%, ensuring all clients received timely, effective solutions to their inquiries and issues.
• Led cross-functional team collaborations, working closely with marketing, sales, and product development teams to meet or exceed client objectives, facilitating a seamless execution of complex projects and campaigns.

Why it works for job seekers: Candidates can illustrate their competency in managing and growing key accounts, emphasizing their role in enhancing customer satisfaction and contributing to the company's revenue.

Example job responsibilities for an account director job description

• Manage relationships with key accounts and serve as the primary point of contact for clients
• Ensure client satisfaction and retention through excellent customer service
• Analyze account performance and identify opportunities for growth
• Develop and implement account-specific strategies to maximize revenue
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver on client objectives

Why it works for employers: The focus is attracting skilled relationship managers who can ensure customer satisfaction and drive revenue growth through strategic account management.

4. Project Manager

Example job responsibilities for a project manager resume.

• Successfully defined and communicated project scope, goals, and deliverables for over 30 projects, aligning with client and stakeholder expectations and steering projects toward clear objectives.
• Coordinated resources across multiple departments, efficiently managing task assignments to maintain productivity and meet critical project milestones in fast-paced environments.
• Proactively identified, assessed, and mitigated project risks, implementing risk management strategies that reduced project setbacks by 40%, ensuring smoother project execution and delivery.

Why it works for job seekers: Individuals can highlight their expertise in leading projects to successful completion, showcasing their ability to manage resources efficiently and communicate effectively with stakeholders.

Example job responsibilities for a project manager job description

• Define project scope, goals, and deliverables
• Develop and maintain project timelines and budgets
• Coordinate resources and tasks to ensure project completion
• Manage relationships with stakeholders and communicate project progress
• Identify and mitigate project risks

Why it works for employers: It's clear the hiring manager is looking for candidates adept at planning, executing, and finalizing projects according to strict deadlines and within budget, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.

5. Human Resources

Example job responsibilities for an hr resume.

• Spearheaded the implementation and enforcement of HR policies, procedures, and practices, leading to a 40% reduction in policy violations and contributing to a more structured and compliant workplace environment.
• Oversaw end-to-end recruitment and onboarding processes for over 200 new hires, improving employee retention by 30% within the first 90 days due to enhanced onboarding practices and fit assessment techniques.
• Ensured strict compliance with employment laws and regulations through rigorous audit practices and training sessions, significantly reducing the risk of legal issues and maintaining a 100% compliance rate throughout tenure.

Why it works for job seekers: Job seekers targeting an HR role can use these job responsibilities examples as templates to showcase their skills in managing HR operations, implementing effective policies and procedures, and driving success through strategic recruitment techniques. 

Example job responsibilities for an HR  job description

• Implement and enforce HR policies, procedures, and practices
• Oversee recruitment and onboarding processes
• Provide guidance and support to employees on HR-related matters
• Manage employee performance and development programs
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations

Why it works for employers: These responsibilities outline a comprehensive view of an HR role, highlighting the importance of implementing policies, overseeing recruitment, supporting employees, and ensuring legal compliance—all crucial for fostering a healthy and productive workplace.

6. Vice President of Marketing

Example job responsibilities for a vp marketing resume.

• Conceived and executed a holistic marketing strategy that drove a 45% growth rate and a 35% increase in annual revenue, identifying new market segments and crafting tailored campaigns.
• Led and mentored a diverse team of 15 marketing professionals, fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and accountability that resulted in a 50% improvement in departmental KPIs.
• Conducted comprehensive market research using tools like Nielsen data and Google Analytics to identify emerging trends and opportunities, resulting in a 30% increase in market share and a deeper understanding of customer needs.

Why it works for job seekers: Candidates can highlight their strategic leadership and impact on growth, showcasing their ability to drive significant business results through innovative marketing strategies.

Example job responsibilities for a VP Marketing job description

• Develop and execute an overall marketing strategy to drive growth and increase revenue
• Lead and mentor a team of marketing professionals to achieve goals
• Develop and implement digital marketing campaigns using various channels
• Collaborate with business leaders to align marketing efforts with overall business goals and objectives

Why it works for employers: This role targets visionary leaders capable of defining and guiding a company's marketing strategy to drive substantial growth and revenue increases.

7. IT Project Manager

Example job responsibilities for it project manager resume.

• Defined and clarified project scope, goals, and deliverables for multiple high-stakes technology projects, ensuring all team members and stakeholders had a clear understanding of expectations and objectives.
• Developed comprehensive project plans, establishing realistic timelines and budgets, which were adhered to within a ±5% variance, demonstrating strong planning and financial management abilities.
• Effectively coordinated technical resources and task assignments among a diverse team of 25+ IT professionals, meeting 90% of project milestones ahead of schedule and maintaining team productivity and morale.
• Implemented and refined project management best practices and methodologies, such as Agile and Waterfall, tailored to fit organizational needs and project types, leading to a 50% increase in project delivery efficiency.

Why it works for job seekers: Emphasizing these skills shows potential employers that the candidates can manage IT projects successfully, deliver on time, communicate effectively, and significantly improve project efficiency.

Example job responsibilities for an IT job description

• Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets
• Coordinate resources and tasks to meet project milestones
• Communicate project status and risks to stakeholders
• Implement project management best practices and methodologies

Why it works for employers: These responsibilities reflect the hiring manager's preferences for a highly organized individual capable of defining goals, planning projects, coordinating resources, communicating with stakeholders, and applying project management methodologies.

8. Systems Administrator

Example job responsibilities for a systems admin resume.

• Successfully installed, configured, and maintained a diverse range of servers and network equipment, resulting in a 99.9% uptime over the measured period and ensuring optimal system performance.
• Diligently monitored system performance, identified and troubleshooted minor and major issues promptly, decreasing downtime by 30% and enhancing network stability.
• Provided high-level technical support to end-users and IT teams, solving complex software and hardware issues, resulting in an improved support service satisfaction rate of 95%.

Why it works for job seekers: By showcasing their accomplishments in these areas, the job seeker can depict their technical competence, problem-solving skills, ability to ensure cyber security, maintain system documentation, and provide high-level tech support.

Example job responsibilities for a job description

• Install, configure, and maintain servers and network equipment
• Monitor system performance and troubleshoot issues
• Implement security measures to protect systems from cyber threats
• Develop and maintain system documentation
• Provide technical support to end-users and IT teams

Why it works for employers: The duties listed emphasize key skills such as system installation and maintenance, troubleshooting, cyber security, system documentation, and user support, ensuring a well-functioning and secure IT infrastructure.

9. Operations Manager

Example job responsibilities for an operations manager resume.

• Developed and implemented operational policies and procedures that enhanced overall efficiency by 20% by identifying bottlenecks and instituting streamlined processes.
• Managed resources and budgets effectively, consistently meeting or exceeding operational targets within tight fiscal constraints, ensuring a 100% compliance rate with financial guidelines.
• Resolved complex operational issues swiftly, reducing the average resolution time by 30%, and implemented preventative measures to mitigate future disruptions.

Why it works for job seekers: The candidate demonstrates their abilities to streamline operations, improve efficiency and productivity, adhere to budget constraints, resolve complex issues, and collaborate for better results.

Example job responsibilities for an operations manager job description

• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures
• Monitor and optimize operational processes to improve efficiency
• Manage resources and budgets to meet operational targets
• Resolve operational issues and escalate as needed
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline operations

Why it works for employers: The requirements for this role emphasize the need to develop operational policies, monitor processes, manage resources, resolve issues, collaborate, and ensure optimal operations and efficiency.

10) Data Analyst

Example job responsibilities for a data analyst resume.

• Collected and cleaned data from multiple sources, ensuring a 99% accuracy rate, thus laying a solid foundation for credible analysis leading to sound business decisions.
• Developed comprehensive data visualizations and reports, which clarified findings and facilitated strategic decisions among senior stakeholders.
• Partnered effectively with cross-departmental teams to establish a culture of data-driven decision-making, enhancing operational efficiency by 25% through optimized process changes.

Why it works for job seekers: The job seeker showcases their skills in handling data, extracting insights, visualizing data, identifying trends, and collaboration, indicating their ability to influence business strategies and improve operational efficiency with data-driven insights.

Example job responsibilities for a data analyst job description

• Collect and clean data from various sources for analysis
• Perform data modeling and statistical analysis to extract insights
• Develop data visualizations and reports to present findings to stakeholders
• Identify trends and patterns in data to support business objectives
• Collaborate with teams to drive data-driven decision-making

Why it works for employers: The responsibilities cover key aspects of a data analyst's role, such as data collection, statistical analysis, data visualization, trend identification, and collaboration, which are vital to informed, data-driven decision-making.

11) Customer Success Manager

Example job responsibilities for a customer success manager resume.

• Successfully onboarded over 200 new customers within the first year, providing thorough product training and increasing the initial customer satisfaction rate by 15%.
• Engaged proactively with customers to identify their goals and challenges, resulting in tailored service recommendations that improved overall customer success by 20%.
• Gathered and leveraged customer feedback to enhance products and services, directly influencing a 30% improvement in product satisfaction score over two quarters.

Why it works for job seekers: The examples display the candidate's direct impact on customer satisfaction, problem-solving abilities, and strategic improvements in product offerings, making them attractive to employers looking for results-driven and customer-focused professionals

Example job responsibilities for a customer success manager job description

• Onboard new customers and provide training on products or services
• Proactively engage with customers to understand their goals and challenges
• Resolve customer issues and escalate as needed
• Gather customer feedback to improve products or services
• Measure and track customer success metrics to drive retention and growth

Why it works for employers: Showcasing these job duties helps employers demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction, proactive customer engagement, and continuous improvement of products or services based on feedback, all crucial for long-term success and customer retention.

12) Customer Service Representative

Example job responsibilities for a customer service rep resume.

• Responded to an average of 50+ customer inquiries per day via multiple channels, maintaining a 95% satisfaction rate in post-contact surveys.
• Provided detailed and accurate information about products and services, leading to a 20% increase in cross-sales and upsells among engaged customers.
• Skillfully handled complex complaints and devised solutions, resulting in a 30% decrease in escalation to supervisors, showcasing effective problem-resolution skills.

Why it works for job seekers: The achievements highlight the applicant’s ability to handle high volumes of customer interactions, resolve issues efficiently, and contribute to sales and customer retention goals, positioning them as valuable assets to potential employers focused on customer satisfaction.

Example job responsibilities for a customer service rep job description

• Respond to customer inquiries via phone, email, or chat
• Provide accurate information about products and services
• Handle complaints, provide appropriate solutions and alternatives within time limits
• Follow up to ensure resolution and maintain customer satisfaction
• Keep records of customer interactions and process customer accounts

Why it works for employers: Listing these duties emphasizes the need for efficient, empathetic, and effective customer service, essential for maintaining high customer satisfaction levels and loyalty.

13) UX/UI Designer

Example job responsibilities for a ux designer resume.

• Conducted comprehensive user research and gathered feedback through surveys and focus groups, informing design decisions that led to a 40% increase in user satisfaction scores.
• Created wireframes and mockups for over 20 projects, effectively visualizing design concepts that streamlined project approval processes by reducing iterations by 30%.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including developers and product managers, ensuring seamless implementation of designs and maintaining design integrity throughout development stages.

Why it works for job seekers: The outlined achievements demonstrate the candidate’s capabilities in enhancing user experience, collaborating effectively with teams, and contributing to the product development process with data-driven design decisions, showcasing their value to employers seeking innovative and user-focused designers.

Example job responsibilities for a UX designer job description

• Conduct user research and gather feedback to inform design decisions
• Create wireframes and mockups to visualize design concepts
• Design intuitive user interfaces that enhance user experience
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement designs
• Conduct usability testing and iterate on designs based on feedback

Why it works for employers: These responsibilities underline the importance of user-centered design processes, teamwork, and the continuous refinement of products based on user feedback, essential for creating products that meet users' needs and expectations.

How to describe your current job responsibilities effectively

When creating effective job responsibilities on your resume, it's crucial to highlight your skills and accomplishments clearly and effectively.

In a resume

The first step is crafting a robust summary, defining job duties in your current role with clarity.

Job responsibility tips for a resume

• Use action verbs to highlight your accomplishments .
• Emphasize your quantifiable achievements, like meeting project deadlines or boosting productivity.
• Link your detailed responsibilities to the job postings, aligning your skills with the job title.
• Present your responsibilities in concise bullet points, avoiding industry-specific jargon.
• Lastly, detail any unique contributions or initiatives you've spearheaded with quantifiable metrics.

Pro tip : Did you know many recruiters will look at your LinkedIn profile to see if you'd be the right fit? That means your work experience matters outside of your resume. To understand how to showcase your experience on LinkedIn, read our guide on optimizing your LinkedIn experience section .

In a Job Interview

Job interviews allow you to further elaborate on your resume, providing more context, and personal stories that round out your experiences.

Job responsibility tips for an interview

• Elaborate on your responsibilities: Define duties in a narrative form, elaborating on day-to-day tasks and important projects.
• Link job duties to impact: Discuss the direct effect of your work, offering real-world examples. Explain implemented strategies and their impact on performance metrics.
• Showcase teamwork and leadership: Provide examples of your collaboration skills and leadership roles within a team or project. Bring up any instances where you effectively led cross-functional teams to deliver upon project goals.
• Highlight ongoing professional development: Mention ongoing courses, certifications, or training as proof of commitment to personal growth and expertise.
• Discuss challenges and learnings: Share your experiences in handling adversity and turning potential crises into opportunities.

Feeling anxious for your interview? Refer to this resource hub for interview prep .

How to use Teal to describe your job responsibilities

Teal offers a seamless way to organize and manage your job search. But where it truly shines is its ability to help candidates perfectly position themselves on a resume for a particular role.

Here's how Teal helps job seekers draft past role achievements and professional history:

1. Tailored resume suggestions

With Teal's intelligent resume builder, you can quickly tailor your resume for each job application.

The platform uses advanced AI to scan job postings and recommend the right keywords to highlight your qualifications, ensuring your resume passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catches the eye of hiring managers.

2. Automated job search management

Save time by automating parts of your job search.

Teal offers insights and recommendations that guide you through optimizing your resume, ensuring you never miss a detail that could make your professional history shine.

3. Comprehensive job tracking

With Teal's Chrome extension , you can bookmark jobs from over 40 job boards, allowing you to keep track of all your job opportunities in one place. This centralized organization ensures you can easily manage applications and tailor your resume to particular position without losing track of any opportunity.

4. Insightful Recommendations

Beyond just organizing your job search, Teal provides tailored recommendations to improve your resume.

Once you leverage these suggestions, you can ensure your achievements and professional history are presented in the most impactful way possible, increasing your chances of landing more interviews.

Teal is your personal recruiter, but powered by AI. Just as companies have recruiters to find the right candidates, you have Teal to navigate the complex job market efficiently, helping you to land a job faster with a standout resume that truly represents your professional journey. Get started with Teal today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i tailor my job responsibilities on my resume to the job i'm applying for, how detailed should my job responsibility descriptions be on my resume, is it acceptable to use job responsibility templates for my resume, and how can i personalize them.

Nathan Thompson

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Craft Your Resume with AI in Mind

With many popular applicant tracking systems (ATSs) using artificial intelligence to screen job applicants, hiring managers often end up seeing only a fraction of the resumes submitted.

That happens when resumes fall below a certain ATS score. Based on how the resume is worded, it may appear that the candidate doesn’t meet certain criteria to be considered for the job.

“The recruiter doesn’t even get to see it,” said Khaled Hussein of the rejected resume. He is co-founder and CEO of Betterleap, an AI-powered sourcing and outreach platform in San Francisco. And the employer may miss out on finding that “hidden gem” of an employee.  

What’s a Job Seeker to Do?

One thing to keep in mind is including keywords that match the job description, according to a recent Forbes article . For example, the ATS for a job ad calling for someone with experience in “client services” likely will be screening for that wording and not “customer services”—even though they’re synonymous.

However, Hussein warned against incorporating business jargon.

“Using jargon or acronyms can certainly trip up the ATS,” he acknowledged. “While some systems are sophisticated enough to distinguish specific terms, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and use language that is easy for all systems—human or otherwise—to decipher.”

He’s also an advocate of the hybrid resume, which highlights key accomplishments while elaborating on measurable bullet points. For example, it’s not enough to indicate you have strong communication skills; instead, give examples of how you used those skills.

“The resume needs to be a lot richer.  … You have to craft it beyond the bullet points,” Hussein said.

Tips for a Successful Resume

Other tips to keep in mind for crafting a rich, effective resume

• Drop the work or career objective statement. “Objective statements used to be popular, but now we’re seeing a shift toward short summaries or ‘profile’ sections at the beginning [of the resume], which succinctly outline skills, relevant experiences and career goals,” Hussein said.
•   Focus on experience relevant to the role . “We’re also seeing a shift away from including all experience—really, only relevant experience matters. And it’s no longer necessary to note that references are available by request. Everyone assumes they are,” he said.
• Be thoughtful in what education details to include. “The goal is to provide enough detail to showcase your qualifications and experiences while keeping your resume concise and easy to read,” Hussein said. “You should include your educational highlights,” such as degrees earned or colleges attended. “The more minor details like GPA and coursework may be relevant for recent graduates but can probably be left off more expansive resumes.”
• Opt for plain fonts and formatting .  “Applicants should aim to make their resumes as easy as possible to analyze for the ATS systems,” he said. “This means that difficult-to-read fonts and fancy formatting may make it harder for the system to parse out relevant experience and skills. Simple is best.”
• Use AI with care. “AI can help optimize keywords and highlight specific skills, but there is no substitute for a well-written, human-generated resume,” Hussein said. “AI tools can analyze the job description you're applying to and identify the most relevant skills and keywords that employers are looking for, some of which you might not have thought to include. “Also, AI can help articulate candidates’ experiences and skills more effectively. Sometimes, we struggle to see the unique value in our experiences or present them in the most compelling light. AI can suggest more powerful language or different angles for showcasing your achievements,” he added.

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12 Indicators to HR That You’re Lying on Your Resume

Posted: March 5, 2024 | Last updated: March 5, 2024

12 Indicators to HR That You're Lying on Your Resume

In today’s competitive job market, the temptation to embellish one’s resume can be strong. However, Human Resources (HR) professionals are adept at spotting inconsistencies and falsehoods, which can instantly disqualify a candidate.

Here are 12 tell-tale signs that may indicate to HR professionals that you’re lying on your resume.

1. Overlapping or Conflicting Dates

HR professionals are keen on spotting discrepancies in employment dates. Overlapping dates between positions or educational pursuits can raise red flags, suggesting that the timeline presented may not be accurate. Such inconsistencies can prompt HR to conduct a more thorough background check to verify the claims.

2. Vague Descriptions of Responsibilities

Generic or vague descriptions of job responsibilities can be a sign that a candidate is trying to inflate their experience or conceal a lack of direct experience. HR looks for specific examples of achievements and responsibilities that correlate with the level of expertise claimed, and when they’re missing, it’ll usually give them pause.

3. Discrepancies Between Resume and Online Profiles

In the digital age, it’s common practice for HR to cross-reference resumes with LinkedIn profiles and other online resources to see if there’s alignment. Significant differences in job titles, responsibilities, or employment dates between a resume and online profiles can indicate dishonesty, so they may be enough to cost you an opportunity.

4. Skills and Qualifications That Don't Match the Job History

When a resume lists skills or qualifications that don’t logically align with the candidate’s job history or educational background, it raises questions. For example, claiming advanced technical skills without any employment history or education in the field can be a red flag.

5. Excessive Use of Buzzwords or Jargon

While industry-specific terms are expected in most cases, overuse of buzzwords or complex jargon is potentially viewed as an attempt to mask a lack of genuine experience. HR professionals prefer clear and concise descriptions that accurately reflect the candidate’s role and achievements, with any use of jargon limited, if it’s used at all.

6. Unverifiable or Obscure References

References that are difficult to verify or seem obscure can be a sign of a fabricated resume. HR departments often conduct reference checks, and unresponsive or non-existent references can be a clear indicator of falsehoods.

7. Inconsistencies in Language or Formatting

Frequent shifts in language tone, writing style, or formatting throughout the resume can suggest that portions have been copied from other sources or that the document was pieced together from various templates. Consistency is key to a professional resume.

8. Implausible Career Progression

A resume that shows an implausible leap in job titles or responsibilities in a short timeframe can signal embellishment. HR professionals look for realistic career progression that aligns with industry norms, so if the right details aren’t listed that justify the leap – such as a new degree, certification, or similar credential – they’re often suspicious.

9. Claiming Credit for Team Achievements

While teamwork is valued, claiming sole credit for achievements that were clearly the result of a team effort can be misleading. HR prefers candidates who can distinguish between their individual contributions and team projects.

10. Lack of Detail on Educational Achievements

Vagueness about educational achievements, such as omitting graduation dates or specific degrees, can indicate that the candidate is trying to conceal a lack of formal education or qualifications. As a result, HR professionals are usually skeptical if various details aren’t present or are added in a way that makes discerning their meaning difficult.

11. Frequent Job Changes Without Clear Progression

A resume with frequent job changes, especially without evident professional growth or advancement, can suggest instability or a pattern of job-hopping. While some industries may have more fluid career paths, HR typically looks for signs of commitment and progression.

12. Too Good to Be True

In many cases, if a resume appears too good to be true, it is. HR professionals are experienced in assessing candidate qualifications and can usually discern when a resume has been exaggerated or falsified to meet the job requirements.

The Trouble with Lying on Your Resume

Ultimately, honesty and transparency in resume writing are paramount. Misrepresenting skills, experience, or qualifications can lead to immediate disqualification and damage to one’s professional reputation. It’s always best to present one’s background truthfully – focusing on genuine achievements and qualifications – to build trust and credibility with potential employers.

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