How to fill up the experiences section in the resume?

Listing relevant work experience is one of the most important parts of your resume. In this section, you’re showing more than just past jobs; you’re demonstrating your impact and the skills you bring. Using bullet points and specific numbers or facts makes your achievements stand out, giving employers clear proof of your success. Here’s a step-by-step guide to presenting your last 10 years of experience in a way that grabs attention.

  1. Identify Relevant Positions from the Last 10 Years
    Start by selecting positions from the past decade that are most relevant to the job. If you’ve had multiple roles, focus on those with responsibilities or accomplishments that align with the job requirements. Avoid listing unrelated roles, as they may clutter your resume and reduce the focus on relevant experience.
  2. Structure Each Role Consistently
    Use a consistent structure for each job to give your resume a polished look. Begin with the job title, followed by the company name, location, and dates. Consistent formatting helps employers quickly find key details and see your career growth.
    Example Format
    Job Title, Company Name, Location
    Month Year – Month Year
  3. Use Bullet Points for Clarity
    Bullet points make your achievements easy to read and understand by breaking up information. Each point should focus on a single responsibility or accomplishment. Aim for 3-5 bullet points per role, focusing on the most impactful achievements.
  4. Focus on Achievements, Not Just Duties
    Rather than just listing job duties, focus on what you achieved in each role. For example, instead of “responsible for managing projects,” say, “managed projects from start to finish, achieving a 95% on-time completion rate.” This approach shows how you contributed value and made a real impact.
  5. Use the Formula: Achieved X, Measured by Y, by Doing Z
    For each bullet point, try to follow this structure to create clear, impactful statements:

    • Achieved X: Describe what you accomplished.
    • Measured by Y: Use numbers, percentages, or facts to show the result.
    • By Doing Z: Explain the actions you took to achieve it.

Example: “Increased monthly sales by 30% by launching targeted email campaigns and optimizing client follow-ups.”

  1. Quantify Your Achievements with Numbers or Percentages
    Numbers and percentages make your achievements more concrete. Quantifiable results allow hiring managers to see the scope of your impact and understand your effectiveness. Examples include:

    • Revenue increases (e.g., “Boosted revenue by 15% annually”)
    • Cost savings (e.g., “Reduced costs by 10%”)
    • Performance metrics (e.g., “Achieved a 98% client satisfaction rate”) 

If you don’t have exact numbers, use estimates or other measurable outcomes, like time saved or improvements in efficiency.

  1. Highlight Relevant Skills and Tools Used
    If you used specific tools or software relevant to the position you’re applying for, mention them. This shows technical expertise and familiarity with industry-standard tools. For example, “Reduced project turnaround time by 20% by using Asana for task management and team collaboration.”
  2. Emphasize Leadership and Initiative
    Employers value candidates who show leadership and initiative. If you’ve led a team, trained others, or started new processes, mention these experiences. Highlighting leadership shows you’re capable of driving positive change.
    Example: “Led a team of 5 to streamline workflows, increasing team productivity by 25% and reducing project times by 15%.”
  3. Tailor Each Role to the Job Description
    Review the job description and identify keywords or responsibilities that match your experience. Select bullet points that closely align with the desired skills and responsibilities. Tailoring your experience in this way shows employers you’re a good fit and understand the role.
  4. Keep Bullet Points Concise and Impactful
    Aim to keep each bullet point one to two lines long. Avoid overly technical terms or jargon that may be hard to understand. Be specific but concise, using action verbs like “achieved,” “implemented,” “led,” “improved,” or “developed” to start each point and convey accomplishment.
  5. Example of a Well-Structured Work Experience Section

Sales Manager, ABC Company
New York, NY
March 2018 – Present

  • Increased monthly sales by 30% within six months by implementing a client-focused sales approach and enhancing lead follow-ups.
  • Achieved a 98% client retention rate by creating a personalized engagement program, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Streamlined sales reporting by integrating CRM software, reducing reporting time by 20% and improving data accuracy.
  • Trained and mentored 10 junior associates, leading to a 15% boost in team productivity and stronger team cohesion.

Project Coordinator, XYZ Enterprises
San Francisco, CA
June 2015 – February 2018

  • Led cross-functional teams to deliver 50+ client projects, achieving a 95% on-time delivery rate with high-quality results.
  • Reduced project costs by 12% by implementing cost-effective strategies and optimizing vendor relationships.
  • Launched new project management software, cutting project tracking time by 25% and increasing team collaboration.
  • Organized weekly project status meetings, boosting project visibility and aligning team goals with client expectations.
  1. Finalizing and Polishing Your Work Experience Section
    Once you’ve organized your work experience, review it carefully. Ensure each bullet point is clear, with a measurable impact. Check for consistent formatting and wording. Proofread for spelling or grammar errors, as even small mistakes can weaken the impression of professionalism. 

Reading your bullet points aloud can help ensure they’re smooth and clear. Each point should be specific, concise, and relevant to the role, showing the value you bring to a potential employer.