Blog: Narrating Your Professional Journey: To 'I' or Not to 'I' in Resumes?

In our collective journey as professionals, leaders, and mentors, we often encounter intriguing questions that underscore the intricacies of career advancement. Today, let's address an oft-debated topic in the realm of resume writing: "Can you use first person or 'I' in a resume?"

 

Let's unravel this enigma. The short answer is that traditionally, it has been recommended to avoid the first-person pronoun 'I' in resumes. However, the reasoning behind this isn't set in stone, and as with many aspects of professional branding, this guideline has been subject to shifts in recent years.

 

Your resume is undeniably about you. It serves as a snapshot of your professional journey, showcasing your skills, accomplishments, and aspirations. While it may seem intuitive to narrate this story using 'I', the practical execution of this approach can lead to redundancy and a loss of impact.

 

A common practice is to employ a form of implied first person, dropping the pronoun but maintaining the action verb. For instance, instead of saying, "I led a team of five to complete a project within the deadline," you'd simply say, "Led a team of five to complete a project within the deadline." This style is both succinct and impactful, focusing attention on your achievements.

 

However, the professional landscape is ever-evolving, and so are the norms around resume writing. The rise of personal branding and the desire to project authenticity and personality in one's resume have led to a more flexible approach. In certain contexts and fields, especially those that prioritize creativity and individuality, using 'I' in your resume may be acceptable, even advantageous.

 

That said, moderation is key. Even if you choose to use 'I', your resume should not read like an autobiography. Instead, it should be a crisp, compelling summary of your professional persona, highlighting your value proposition to potential employers.

 

In conclusion, whether or not to use 'I' in your resume is a nuanced decision that depends on your industry, the role you're applying for, and the personal brand you wish to convey. As with all aspects of your resume, it's about balance - striking the right note between showcasing your individuality and adhering to professional conventions.

 

If you found this discussion insightful and want to explore more facets of career progression, professional branding, or leadership development, please connect with me here on LinkedIn. I regularly share thought-provoking content, tips, and open dialogues about navigating our professional journeys.

 

Stay updated with the ever-evolving dynamics of career growth by following me. Let's embark on this professional voyage together, charting courses for success in our respective fields.