Which is Better on Your Resume - Tasks or Accomplishments?

Your resume is the most crucial element of your job search. In fact, an effective resume is what prompts hiring managers to seek out more information about you as a potential employee. Highlighting your skills, experience, tasks and accomplishments is vital, but which one is more important? Although your duties help show employers your experience, your accomplishments speak louder and are likely to capture attention when hiring managers are considering candidates.

Accomplishments Offer Proof of Success

Although listing your duties on a resume informs hiring managers of your abilities, listing your accomplishments show employers proof of your success. For example, a finance specialist is expected to have experience balancing budgets, forecasting revenue and evaluating expenses. However, a candidate is much more impressive if he can show proof that he was able to move a company from the red to the black during a quarter or fiscal year. Outline this information when compiling an effective resume so potential employers can see that your actions have produced positive results.

Accomplishments Show Strengths

There is a clear difference between knowing how to complete a task and succeeding at a task. Future employers want to see how you utilize your strengths and skills. An effective resume doesn't just highlight a list of skills. Instead, it outlines how you put your skills into action. For instance, if you were recognized for providing excellent customer service or were named 'employee of the month,' make this information prominent on your resume. Detail sales goals you met and exceeded on a regular basis versus just listing that you have sales experience. Make your strengths primary on your application materials by highlighting accomplishments versus just tasks completed.

Accomplishments Provide Concrete Examples

An effective resume does not leave the employer guessing about what you can accomplish. Your resume should spell out any and all details that confirm you are the best fit for the position. Spend time during your job search brainstorming examples of your success that you can highlight on your application materials. Concrete examples, such as goals met, customer testimonials and even interoffice awards you have won are much more impressive than a boring list of duties and tasks. Although it is necessary to show your competencies, pair each one with an accomplishment to produce an effective resume. When listing computer skills, explain how you went above and beyond to troubleshoot customer problems utilizing these skills. When detailing organizational skills, outline how you originated processes within the office that enhanced productivity. Concrete evidence helps future employers see how you can make an impact.

An effective resume relies heavily on your accomplishments in previous positions. Show that you have made a positive impact at each of your previous jobs by focusing on successes versus just duties to capture the attention of future employers.

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