Describing accomplishments on a resume typically involves choosing between past and present tenses. For completed actions, such as prior job responsibilities or finished projects, the past tense is generally preferred. For example, “Managed a team of five” or “Developed a new marketing strategy.” However, for ongoing roles or current skills, the present tense can be suitable. An example of this would be “Manage a team of five” or “Develop marketing strategies.” Carefully selecting the appropriate tense ensures clarity and accurately reflects the timeframe of the experience.
Accurate tense usage contributes significantly to a resume’s professionalism and effectiveness. Consistent use of past tense for completed actions demonstrates completion and achievement, while correct application of present tense showcases continuing expertise and current responsibilities. This distinction helps recruiters quickly understand the nature and duration of experience. Historically, the emphasis on past tense stemmed from a focus on completed tasks. However, as the nature of work evolves, acknowledging ongoing skills and projects with present tense has become increasingly relevant.