A resume is more than a list of duties. It’s a chance to show how well you performed in each role. But to make a strong impact, you need more than vague statements. You need to add numbers and details that show your real value. This guide will explain why quantifying achievements is essential. It will also show you how to do it in a way that grabs attention.

Why Quantifying Matters

Hiring managers see hundreds of resumes. Most of them contain similar responsibilities and buzzwords. But quantifiable achievements tell a story. They show results. Saying you “managed projects” is good. Saying you “led 5 projects, finishing 10% faster than expected” is powerful. Numbers make your impact clear, specific, and memorable (Indeed).

1. Start by Listing Your Key Achievements

To quantify your achievements, begin by listing what you’re most proud of in each job. Don’t worry about numbers yet. Just think about the tasks or projects that made a difference. For technical writers, this could be creating a new documentation system or reducing errors in a user manual.

• Example: Did you create a new user guide? Or perhaps you improved an existing one? Write down each accomplishment first. Think about why it mattered to the team or the company.

2. Add Numbers to Show Impact

Now, look at each achievement. Ask yourself if there’s a way to measure it. Think about the results you achieved, not just the task itself. Numbers show impact. They tell the hiring manager, “Here’s what I did and here’s the result.”

• Example: Instead of saying, “Improved user guide,” try “Reduced errors in user guide by 20%.” If you helped the team work faster, write, “Cut documentation time by 15%.” These numbers make your resume more impressive (Glassdoor).

3. Use Percentages, Timeframes, and Counts

Quantifying achievements isn’t just about percentages. You can use different types of numbers to show results. For example, if you completed a project ahead of schedule, mention the timeframe. If you managed a team, say how many people were involved. Here are some ideas:

• Percentage: Show improvement rates, such as “reduced project completion time by 20%.”
• Timeframe: Note if you achieved something faster than average, like “completed documentation 2 weeks ahead of schedule.”
• Count: Mention how many projects, manuals, or tasks you managed, such as “published 12 user guides.”

Each of these details highlights your achievements in a way that both ATS and hiring managers will notice (CareerBuilder).

4. Show Results That Match the Job Description

Every job has different priorities. Tailor each quantifiable achievement to fit what the employer needs. If a job emphasizes “efficiency,” then numbers showing time saved will stand out. If it focuses on “accuracy,” highlight any reductions in errors. Tailoring your achievements in this way makes your resume more relevant.

• Example: If the job calls for “attention to detail,” you might write, “Reduced documentation errors by 15%, improving product usability.” This shows the hiring manager that you can meet their needs (LinkedIn).

5. Keep It Real and Relevant

It’s tempting to exaggerate achievements, but honesty is crucial. Hiring managers can spot inflated numbers. Only include accomplishments you can back up if asked. Real achievements build trust and keep your resume genuine.

• Example: Rather than saying, “led a major project with huge results,” specify your role. “Managed a project team of 5, improving documentation quality by 25%.” Clear, honest numbers speak louder than inflated ones (ZipRecruiter).

Conclusion

Quantifying achievements on your resume isn’t just about adding numbers. It’s about showing the value you brought to each role. By using specific numbers, you can make each job experience memorable and impactful. Focus on achievements that matter for the role you’re applying to. Use clear, honest metrics to show your true impact. With these steps, you’ll create a resume that stands out to ATS systems. It will also catch the eye of hiring managers.