How to Write Résumé Bullet Points

Your résumé is your first impression with an employer and here’s the truth: they’re not judging you on fancy fonts or creative layouts. We know that VIS taught you how to create out a great layout. However, employers are making their decision based on one thing: what you’ve done. Content is king when it comes to your résumé, and that content lives in your bullet points. So. Create your layout around content and not force your content into a layout.

How do you transform a list of duties into proof that you’re the right person for the job? Let’s break it down.

Ditch the Passive Language

Eliminate phrases like “responsible for” or “responsibilities included” from your résumé. These passive phrases take up valuable space without telling the employer anything meaningful. Instead of saying what you were supposed to do, show them what you actually did.

Instead of: “Responsible for social media accounts”

Try: “Managed social media accounts for campus organization”

See the difference? Action words immediately convey the skills you used and make you sound like someone who gets things done.

Be Specific and Use Metrics

Vague bullet points leave employers guessing. Details and numbers, on the other hand, paint a clear picture of your impact. Whenever possible, include frequency, percentages or other concrete metrics that demonstrate results.

Think about it: Would you rather hire someone who “helped with fundraising” or someone who “raised $5,000 through coordinating campus-wide donation drive.”

The Five-Element Formula

The strongest résumé bullet points answer multiple questions at once. Try to address as many of these elements as possible:

What you did (the task): Start with a strong action verb. “Increased social media followers”

How you did it (your method): Add context about your approach. “Increased social media followers by posting engaging content”

Why you did it (your purpose): Show you understand the bigger picture. “Posted engaging content to increase followership across campus”

What resulted (your impact): Demonstrate that you made a difference. “Increased social media followers by 10% by posting engaging content”

Measurable details (numbers and frequency): This is where you really shine. “Increased social media followers by 10% across three platforms by posting engaging content three times per week”

Notice how that final bullet point tells a complete story? It shows what you did, how consistently you did it, and exactly what impact you made. That’s the gold standard.

Your Action Plan

As you review your résumé, ask yourself: Are my bullet points showing or just telling? Am I using specific numbers and metrics? Does each point start with a strong action verb?

Remember, employers are scanning hundreds of résumés. Your bullet points need to quickly prove that you have relevant experience and can deliver results. By qualifying and quantifying your experiences, you transform your résumé from a list of duties into a compelling case for why you’re the best candidate for the job.

Need help? Make an appointment or stop by drop ins on Wednesday and Friday from 11:30-1:00 pm in 313 N3. We’re here to help you put your best foot forward!