Get Specific with Tools, Technology & Responsibilities
Let’s face it, recruiters and hiring managers don’t have time to read between the lines. When they’re reviewing dozens (or even hundreds) of resumes, they’re not just looking for job titles; they’re scanning for clear, specific details that align with their open roles.
That’s why generic descriptions won’t cut it anymore. If you want to land that direct hire position, you’ve got to speak the language of your industry and back it up with real examples.
Why Specifics Matter
A job title can mean a hundred different things depending on the company. That’s why hiring managers need context. They want to know:
- What tools or software you used
- What equipment you worked with
- What processes you followed
- And what results you delivered
Specifics paint a picture of your capabilities and make it easier for recruiters to match you with the right job.
Real Resume Upgrades
Let’s look at three common examples and how to elevate them from bland to brilliant.
🔁 Instead of:
“Worked in a warehouse setting”
✅ Try:
“Operated RF scanners to manage inbound/outbound inventory; used pallet jacks and forklifts to load and unload shipments; maintained a 98% order accuracy rate.”
🔁 Instead of:
“Did administrative work for the office”
✅ Try:
“Managed executive calendars using Outlook; processed weekly expense reports in Concur; coordinated team meetings and logistics across multiple departments.”
🔁 Instead of:
“Handled production tasks”
✅ Try:
“Set up and operated CNC machinery; performed quality inspections using calipers and micrometers; followed Lean Manufacturing principles to reduce waste by 10%.”
Why it works: These examples highlight how you did the job, what tools you used, and backs it up with a measurable achievement.
Pro Tip: Use Keywords From the Job Description
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes before a human ever sees them. By incorporating relevant keywords (e.g., “SAP,” “RF scanner,” “ISO standards,” or “project coordination”), you’ll improve your chances of getting past that first filter.
Just make sure you use them naturally, not as a list at the bottom of the page. Weave them into your experience descriptions where they make sense.
Takeaways That Pack a Punch
To make your resume stand out:
- Be specific. Name the tools, software, or machinery you used.
- Include outcomes. Numbers catch the eye — use them when possible.
- Match the role. Tailor your language to reflect the job description.
- Avoid fluff. Skip generic terms like “hard-working” unless you’ve got proof to back it up.
Your Next Career Opportunity
Ready to take the next step in your professional career? Graham Personnel Services connects great people with great companies across the US.
👉 Looking for your next opportunity? Search our open positions and let’s take your career to the next level.
