How to Write a Personal Statement for a Resume
A personal statement is like a calling card for your resume. When you write a personal statement for a resume or application, your goal is to establish some type of connection between you and the person who will be reviewing your resume. For example, maybe you are a member of a sorority or fraternity; if the recruiter or reviewer is also a member that could be the one thing that puts your resume above the others. Focus on the things about you that could help you stand out from the other applicants.
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Instructions
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Directions
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Discuss your background, including where you grew up, a little about your family, what you were passionate about as a child and what type of child you were. Think of a good descriptive word to describe yourself as a young person, such as "rambunctious," "curious," or "inquisitive."
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Tell a funny or inspiration story about your childhood (can be from when you were a pre-teen or a teenager but it should definitely be at a time when you were aware of your surroundings). The story should be short and to the point. Maybe you can tell a great story from school or of an interaction with a teacher or family member.
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List your two or three most important achievements, your school and degree (for an employment resume). Talk about the professional and social organizations of which you are a proud member (no organizations that could be seen as controversial or questionable).
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Mention your current family if you are married with children. If you are single, you can skip this part or just talk about the family and friends who have influenced you the most.
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Finally, briefly discuss your goals for the future. Make sure that these goals somehow tie into the position that you are seeking. For instance, if you are applying for a job that requires a long-term commitment, you don't want to mention how you plan on starting your own business next year in your personal statement.
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If you only want to write a one-line personal "blurb" on your resume, simply write about 10 to 15 words to describe what is most important to you in life. The blurb should have some relevance to the position you will be applying for, such as a club membership, professional affiliation or working style. An example: Member of Toastmasters, San Francisco and the Authors Guild. Without saying so directly, you have just told the person reading your resume that you are a skilled public speaker and an author of some sort. This could lead to a conversation about books you have written at your interview or the decision-maker might be impressed to hear about your recent public speaking engagements.
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Tips & Warnings
Writing a good personal statement for your resume will require some time and reflection. It might help to go somewhere quiet or secluded to think about the things that you value the most in life and how you can associate those values with the positions that you are seeking.
