Why focus on achievements and good results in a resume and cover letter?
The reasons are simple.
A person who wants to hire a car mechanic, knows what a car mechanic does. An architectural firm seeking a new architect, knows what an architect does.
So cutting and pasting two pages of duties and responsibilities from job descriptions from current and previous work is a complete waste of time.
In recruitment terms, it’s a strong negative, bordering on insulting.
You want to include measurable results and achievements.
You want to include how you improved the unit, section or department.
What was the good result of training all of those apprentices?
How did the diplomas or degree help you in your current job?
What innovations have you implemented and what projects did you lead? Go further – what was the good results?
Where you did work beyond a job description, include that. That’s good. Things like secondments or extra duties need to be included. Then include the good results.
Most of the resumes I see from so-called local writers – who are based in Perth or Sydney – simply cut and paste standard duties. They should be shut down.
Don’t do it.