Numbers Don't Lie in Resumes

Numbers or metrics paint a clearer picture of value much quicker than words do. The type of numbers that impress hiring managers will vary according to the field you are in, but generally, what hiring managers want to know is how you can impact the growth of the business. Only numbers can back up your claims, so it's best to include them in your resume.

If you're in sales, hiring managers in your field want to see by what percentage you surpassed your quota, how much new revenue you generated for your employer, and where you ranked among your peers, among other data. These statistics are important for hiring managers seeking top sales talent because they want to bring in a proven performer that can deliver immediate impact.

A close partner to the sales function, the marketing department impacts revenue growth by facilitating lead generation, maximizing market visibility, and supporting sales through development of communications and collateral. Therefore, it is appropriate for a marketing professional to reveal the percentage or amount of sales or revenue growth achieved as a result of their marketing strategies and campaigns.

Operations professionals are challenged with meeting bottom-line objectives by balancing resources, business goals, and costs in order to ensure business is continuous and productive. Hiring managers seeking their next Operations Managers want to see the amount of money saved for their employers and profitability gains.

Simply stating something like, "revamped entire department in support of senior management objectives" just won't cut it. That's not an accomplishment, it is a task. An accomplishment would include an actual number and will read something like, "Delivered over $50,000 in cost savings and improved productivity 25% by restructuring the department and modernizing systems for streamlined business processes." Statements like this should be spread out across your resume, with 1 to 2 examples included in your intro summary as well.

The toughest part in demonstrating your qualifications through numbers is gathering the data. It is well worth it, though; as I've met hiring managers who won't even consider a candidate for an opening if metrics aren't included in his or her resume.

Numbers naturally distinguish, and this is your goal, to stand above the crowd during the job search. When you include measurable accomplishments in your resume, you are demonstrating that you are proven performer - because numbers don't lie.