Writing a resume is a delicate art. With recruiters spending only an average of six seconds reviewing a resume, the pressure to stand out is immense. One of the most effective yet often overlooked strategies to make your resume shine is the use of active voice. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of active voice in resume writing, provide evidence through case studies, and share resources to hone your writing skills.
What is Active Voice?
In the active voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action. It is direct, clear, and powerful. For example:
- Active: “I managed a team of five.”
- Passive: “A team of five was managed by me.”
The active voice is not only clearer but also more concise, an essential quality in a resume where brevity is key.
Why is Active Voice Crucial for Resumes?
- Clarity and Conciseness: Active voice gets straight to the point, making it easier for hiring managers to understand your accomplishments.
- Demonstrates Confidence: Using active voice shows you’re confident in your abilities and achievements.
- Engages the Reader: Active sentences are compelling and hold the reader’s attention.
Case Studies: The Impact of Active Voice
Tech Innovators Inc.
After switching to a resume format that emphasized active voice:
- The HR department reported a 35% decrease in time spent reviewing each resume.
- There was a 20% increase in the quality of candidates invited for interviews.
HealthCare Heroes
Post a resume workshop focusing on active voice:
- Candidates reported a 50% increase in callbacks.
- Hiring managers felt that resumes were more compelling, effectively showcasing candidates’ skills.
The Psychological Perspective
According to a study published in the Journal of Professional Communication in 2021, resumes written in active voice have a higher success rate in securing interviews. The research suggests that the psychological impact of active voice on readers is profound. Active voice positions the writer as a proactive, results-driven individual, exactly the kind of candidate most employers are seeking.
Resources to Improve Your Resume Writing with Active Voice:
- Grammarly: This tool not only highlights passive voice but also suggests ways to make it active. It’s a great way to proofread your resume and ensure active voice usage.
- Purdue OWL Writing Lab: An invaluable resource that offers guidelines on using active voice in professional writing.
- Active Voice Workbook: A self-help guide full of exercises to help you master active voice in all your professional documents.
Conclusion
Your resume is often the first impression potential employers have of you. By harnessing the power of active voice, you can present yourself as a confident, proactive professional. Take the time to review your resume, replace passive structures with active ones, and witness the transformative power of language.
Sources:
- “The Ladders Study.” The Ladders, 2012.
- “Active vs. Passive Voice.” Grammarly Blog.
- Smith, J. “The Power of Voice: How Linguistic Choices Shape Professional Perception.” Harvard University Press, 2019.
- “Resume Writing Tips: Active Voice vs. Passive Voice.” Purdue OWL.
(Note: Some of the case studies, resources, and sources are fictional and are used for illustrative purposes only.)