Why your résumé should be a marketing pitch, not a history book

To capture a hiring manager’s attention, Perrotta suggests a structure that prioritizes relevance over tenure. Start with a concise objective statement followed by a section highlighting key expertise tailored to the specific job description. This should transition into a three-to-five-sentence professional summary—written in the third person—that functions as an elevator pitch. Crucially, keep the most vital information at the top, relegating education and certifications to the bottom, unless you hold advanced credentials that warrant placement directly next to your name.

When detailing your professional history, focus strictly on the last decade. Anything beyond that window rarely captures a recruiter's interest, so condense older roles into brief highlights. For your primary experience, move beyond simple task lists. Use bullet points to quantify your impact: report on revenue generated, resources saved, and measurable achievements like promotions or leadership initiatives. Perrotta also recommends providing context about your past team structures, such as the size of the organization and your specific reporting hierarchy. While generative AI can assist with drafting and overcoming writer's block, the final product must remain grounded in authentic, personalized achievements to stand out in a competitive field.