How to Add BS Numbers to Your Resume (Without Looking Like a Robot)
Adding quantifiable achievements to your resume, often referred to as "BS numbers" (though we'll use the more professional term "quantifiable results"), is crucial for making your resume stand out. Recruiters scan resumes quickly, looking for concrete evidence of your impact. Simply listing your responsibilities isn't enough; you need to show how you excelled in those roles. This guide will show you how to effectively incorporate quantifiable results into your resume without sounding boastful or unnatural.
Understanding the Power of Quantifiable Results
Before diving into how to add numbers, let's understand why. Quantifiable results demonstrate your accomplishments and their impact on your previous employers. They translate your experience into tangible successes, providing concrete proof of your value. Instead of saying "Improved customer satisfaction," say "Improved customer satisfaction scores by 15%," which is far more impactful.
Where to Add Quantifiable Results
The best place to showcase quantifiable results is within the description of your work experience. Avoid simply adding numbers randomly; integrate them naturally within your bullet points. Each bullet point should ideally start with an action verb, followed by a quantifiable achievement, and then a brief explanation of the impact.
Examples of Quantifiable Results:
- Increased Sales: "Increased sales by 20% in Q3 2023 through implementing a new marketing strategy."
- Improved Efficiency: "Streamlined the production process, resulting in a 10% reduction in manufacturing time."
- Cost Savings: "Reduced operational costs by 12% by negotiating better supplier contracts."
- Project Management: "Successfully managed a $500,000 project, completing it on time and under budget."
- Customer Service: "Resolved over 500 customer complaints, achieving a 95% customer satisfaction rating."
- Team Leadership: "Mentored a team of five junior developers, resulting in a 15% increase in team productivity."
How to Craft Effective Bullet Points
Here's a formula to follow when crafting impactful bullet points:
- Action Verb: Begin with a strong action verb (e.g., managed, increased, reduced, improved, implemented).
- Quantifiable Result: Include a specific number, percentage, or dollar amount to showcase your achievement.
- Context: Briefly explain the context of your accomplishment.
- Impact: Clearly state the positive impact your achievement had on the company or team.
Example:
Weak: Managed social media accounts.
Strong: Managed social media accounts, resulting in a 30% increase in engagement and a 15% increase in website traffic within six months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inflated Numbers: Don't exaggerate your accomplishments. Be truthful and back up your claims if necessary.
- Generic Numbers: Avoid vague quantifiers like "significantly" or "substantially." Use concrete numbers instead.
- Unrelated Numbers: Only include numbers relevant to the job description.
- Ignoring the Impact: Always explain the positive outcome of your quantifiable achievements.
Keywords and SEO Optimization
To boost your resume's visibility to applicant tracking systems (ATS), strategically incorporate relevant keywords from the job description. Weave these keywords naturally into your descriptions, including your quantifiable results.
Conclusion
Adding quantifiable results to your resume isn't about boasting; it's about demonstrating your value. By following these tips, you can effectively showcase your achievements and significantly improve your chances of landing your dream job. Remember to tailor your resume to each specific job application, highlighting the most relevant quantifiable results for that particular role. Good luck!
