Nothing kicks off a good resume like a strong headline, but all too often, we settle for a mediocre one that sounds like the title of a job description.

✨But this is your chance to give a GREAT first impression, so use words that speak to your EXCEPTIONAL value as a candidate.

For example, what if you’re a Director of HR, but you aspire to a more prestigious leadership role—say, VP of People?

You definitely don’t want to misrepresent your experience by giving yourself the title of “VP of People” if you’ve never held that role.” However, if you think about what makes you unique compared to your competition, you can use that quality to elevate yourself in the eyes of the reader.

Here’s what I mean:

Do you have a record of contributing to the bottom line as an HR Director?

What about something like People Leader Committed to Profitable Growth?

If you’re a Digital Entertainment Director who is asked to speak at international industry events, how about:

Digital Entertainment Industry Leader Recognized for Pioneering Ideas

OR

Global Digital Entertainment Industry Leader & Keynote Speaker

See what I did there? It’s all accurate, but you’re no longer narrowly defined.

Of course, the reader will see your current leadership and achievements in your experience section, but if you capture your role and contributions succinctly yet powerfully in the header of both your resume and LinkedIn profile, you’ll have established your role in the reader’s mind before they even begin to scan the rest of your content.

💪 Exercise:
Think of ways to bulk up your headline using factual modifiers that can easily be backed up in the branding (summary) and experience section.

I’m known to avoid modifiers. But if used in this strategic way, you’ll notice that your resume and LinkedIn profile will stand out from the beginning.