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Tips for Writing an Executive Summary by Barbara LaBier An employer’s attention span could be limited to 30 seconds at least that’s what recruiting experts tell us. A potential boss may have the perfect candidate in mind. Most likely the keywords for this special job have already been selected and a search has been performed using the latest scanning device. The applicant with the most of these impressive keywords in their Executive Summary will most likely have their resume read or will get a call about their background and possibly an interview. Every executive resume should have a summary that introduces the applicant and provides a quick snapshot of a job candidate’s background. So how do you get and keep a competitive edge in this process? Start by writing an executive summary that presents an overview of your current work and covers what you’ve done in the past. Key words used to describe your experience represent your career. They tell the reader in a few seconds, if you have the background they are looking for. To write a summary about yourself, requires self knowledge plus the ability to create a positive image from past achievements. You may have grown tired of your past and dulled the ability to be positive creating a glowing portrait of your outstanding qualities. Begin your summary with a catchy phrase or description about your career. For example, start with: “Results driven executive with 20 years experience in sales and marketing” or “Seasoned professional with a background in financial services and operations.” To find new ideas, perform a search at M for a job title to bring up job descriptions or go to your local library to read resume books containing resumes collected by expert resume writers. Then begin tailoring your resume to fit the job. If you are applying for an executive position most employers will want to know about your managerial skills, such as the number of people you supervise and how you helped them develop skills, ta