How to Write a Better Resume as a Marketing Director
You have honed your communication and leadership skills as you moved up through a variety of positions in advertising, sales or product management. Along the way, you obtained more education and experience. Now you are ready to apply for the position of marketing director. In order to obtain the position, you will need to develop a resume that's better than the ones of those who you will be competing with for the job opening.
Instructions
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Use a reverse chronological format. This lists your employment and education backward, beginning with the most recent. List the name of your employer, the dates that you worked there, your title and a brief synopsis of duties, using action words as much as possible.
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Lead with a powerful performance profile or career summary. Located directly below the header, this short paragraph contains three to five of your greatest skills and achievements. In her book "30-Minute Resume Makeover," Louise Kursmark gives the following example: "Track record of revenue growth, profit enhancement and successful product-line management during nine years in progressively challenging marketing roles. Strong foundation in market research and technology paired with creativity and the ability to innovate. Talent for leading and inspiring teams to top performance."
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Emphasize your leadership and communication skills. As marketing director, you will oversee a company's marketing strategy. In larger firms, you may be responsible for overall sales and profit performance. In his book "Gallery of Best Resumes," David F. Noble provides the following example: "Appointed as inside Sales Account Manger to handle a major supermarket chain buying $3 million of floral products, resulting in a 23% sales increase in the first year."
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Highlight any postgraduate education. Many marketing directors have a master's degree in business. Including the Certified Marketing Executive (CME) certificate on your resume may give you an edge over those who have not earned one. According to Sales and Marketing Executives International, or SMEI (see the Resources section), this designation indicates that you have successfully demonstrated knowledge and understanding of marketing strategies.
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List relevant awards, honors or experiences that will distinguish you from the other applicants. Mention proficiency in multiple languages, technology skills and any publications that you have written. As marketing director, you may assume a high-profile position. Demonstrate your willingness and ability to be a visible member of the community. If you belong to professional affiliations, describe leadership roles, committees, task forces or special assignments within those associations.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask a colleague or mentor to proofread your resume.
Update your portfolio and bring it to the interview.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit manager image by Dmitri MIkitenko from Fotolia.com