When applying for jobs, listing your accomplishments on a resume can set you apart from other candidates.
While job responsibilities tell employers what you were tasked to do, accomplishments show how well you did it.
This guide will help you identify, structure, and present your achievements effectively, especially for job seekers in Kenya’s competitive market.
Why Listing Accomplishments Matters
- Demonstrates Value: Shows recruiters the results you’ve delivered in previous roles.
- Quantifies Success: Numbers and metrics make your impact clear and measurable.
- Differentiates You: Highlights what makes you unique compared to other applicants.
- Aligns With Job Requirements: Tailored accomplishments demonstrate your suitability for the role.
How to Identify Accomplishments
To effectively list accomplishments, reflect on your professional history and ask:
- Did I increase revenue, efficiency, or customer satisfaction?
- Did I save time, money, or resources?
- Did I exceed targets or improve processes?
- Did I receive awards or recognition for my work?
Examples of Accomplishments by Role
Sales and Marketing
- Increased regional sales by 30% within six months by implementing targeted strategies.
- Designed a digital marketing campaign that boosted website traffic by 40%, generating Ksh 2 million in revenue.
Finance and Accounting
- Reduced operational expenses by 15% through process optimization.
- Prepared financial reports with 100% accuracy, enabling better decision-making for stakeholders.
Customer Service
- Improved customer satisfaction scores by 20% through staff training and streamlined complaint resolution.
- Handled an average of 50 customer inquiries daily, maintaining a 95% resolution rate.
Human Resources
- Increased employee retention by 25% by introducing a mentorship program.
- Managed recruitment for 50 positions, achieving 95% placement success within deadlines.
IT and Technology
- Developed a software solution that decreased processing time by 30%.
- Implemented a cybersecurity protocol that reduced data breaches by 80%.
Project Management
- Successfully delivered projects worth Ksh 10 million on time and under budget.
- Led a cross-functional team of 15 members, achieving project milestones consistently.
How to Structure Accomplishments
Use the STAR Method to frame your accomplishments clearly and concisely:
- Situation: Describe the context or challenge you faced.
- Task: Explain your responsibility.
- Action: Detail the steps you took.
- Result: Highlight the measurable outcome.
Example:
- “Reduced inventory costs by 15% (Result) by analyzing stock trends (Action) and negotiating better supplier terms (Task) in a high-demand environment (Situation).”
Where to List Accomplishments on Your Resume
Work Experience Section:
Incorporate accomplishments under each role using bullet points.
Example: “Increased client retention by 20% through improved onboarding processes.”
Achievements Section
Create a dedicated section for notable awards, recognitions, or career highlights.
Example: “Employee of the Month Award for achieving highest sales for three consecutive months.”
Professional Summary:
Mention your most impactful accomplishment at the top of your resume.
Example: “Results-oriented IT specialist with a track record of reducing system downtimes by 50%.”
Dos and Don’ts of Listing Accomplishments
Do:
- Use action verbs like “increased,” “achieved,” “streamlined,” or “implemented.”
- Quantify results wherever possible (e.g., percentages, dollar amounts, or time saved).
- Tailor accomplishments to the specific job description.
Don’t:
- List vague achievements without context or measurable results.
- Focus solely on responsibilities instead of outcomes.
- Exaggerate or fabricate accomplishments—honesty is key.
Examples of Accomplishments by Metrics
1. Revenue Growth
“Increased annual sales by Ksh 3 million by introducing customer loyalty programs.”
2. Cost Savings
“Saved Ksh 500,000 annually by renegotiating vendor contracts.”
3. Time Efficiency
“Reduced project delivery time by 20% through process optimization.”
4. Team Impact
“Led a team of 10 employees, achieving 95% customer satisfaction ratings.”
5. Innovation
“Developed an automated system that reduced manual data entry errors by 90%.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Types of Accomplishments Should I Include?
Focus on achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Highlight accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to solve problems, achieve results, and add value.
How Do I Quantify Accomplishments Without Exact Numbers?
Use approximate figures or descriptive terms like “significant improvement” or “increased efficiency.” For example, “Improved workflow processes, saving the team several hours weekly.”
Should I Include Personal Accomplishments?
Only if they relate to the role. For example, completing a marathon might demonstrate discipline and perseverance, qualities that are valuable in certain roles.
Can I Include Team Accomplishments?
Yes, but highlight your specific contribution. For example, “Collaborated with a team to develop a marketing strategy that increased sales by 25%.”
Conclusion
Listing accomplishments on your resume is crucial for standing out in Kenya’s competitive job market. By focusing on measurable results, tailoring your achievements to the role, and structuring them effectively, you can show employers the value you bring to their organization.
