How to Write a Competency Statement for a Resume

Does your resume include a competency statement? If not, you could very well be at a disadvantage when applying for that dream job position. A competency statement on your resume sets you apart from other job applicants because it tells the potential employer exactly why you are a perfect fit for the job opening. Read on for simple steps to creating a stunning competency statement section to include within your resume.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• computer
• computer word processing program
• job ad for the position you wish to apply to

1. START WITH A HEADING
   
   Your competency statement needs a heading—just like any other section in your resume. A typical heading is “Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.” If this particular heading does not catch your fancy, tailor it by adding, deleting, or choosing synonym words to make it mesh better with your resume style.

2. STUDY THE JOB AD
   
   The job posting is an important tool for writing your resume’s competency statement because it tells you what the employer is looking for in an employee. Be on the lookout for qualities the job position requires, such as “good communicator,” “team player,” and “detail-oriented.” Circle or highlight these key phrases.

3. WRITE THE PERFECT COMPETENCY STATEMENT
   
   You will now want to transfer the qualities desired by the employer onto your competency statement to maximize your chances of landing a job interview. For example, if the job position requires someone who is a good communicator, then by all means include this quality is on your list of skills. And make sure to prove your skills as a good communicator; a bulleted sub-list of incidences where your communication skills helped out in a situation will give the employer the reassurance and confidence necessary to schedule you for that job interview.

4. PROOFREAD YOUR COMPETENCY STATEMENT
   
   After you have written all of the desired competency statements for your resume, it’s time to proofread this section. Check for the usual errors, such as spelling mistakes and formatting problems. Also be sure to double-check that your competency statements ring true and fit the job position you are applying for.
   
   I wish you the best with your job hunt! If you are interested in reading more of my career-related articles, please see the Resources Area at the end of this article.

Resources

• How to Write a Job Application Letter
• How to Figure Out a Career using SWOT Analysis
• How to Get Started as a Freelance Writer
• How to Establish Effective Communication Skills

[jpwriter]

on 5/31/2009 This is such an important part of the resume that people tend to overlook. You covered it well.

[Gardengates]

on 5/29/2009 I never wrote a competency statement. I hope that doesn't mean I never qualified for one! :-) Anyway, thanks for the information. It makes good sense!

[magnadea]

on 5/28/2009 Good pointers for writing a competency statement in this time when it is so tough to set yourself apart from all the other applicants. Thanks! 5* and rec