How to write the Personal Statement section of your resume (with examples)

The personal statement should be a brief (1-3 sentence) summary of what you can offer. Highlight key pieces of your experience which match the job's requirements.

This is your elevator pitch - a short, confident summary that tells a potential employer who you are and what you do.

It should sit right at the top of your resume, just below your contact information.

Why the personal statement matters

Recruiters tend to spend less than 10 seconds scanning each resume. A clear personal statement helps them to immediately understand your level of experience and fit for the role.

It’s especially useful if:

• You’re changing industry or job type

• You’re applying speculatively (not for a listed job)

• You want to highlight key skills or achievements quickly

For entry-level candidates, it’s also your chance to explain what you’re aiming for and what you bring beyond your grades.

Personal statement example

If you're applying for an Android Developer job at a bank then you could write:

Software Engineer with 4 years' experience in Android Development at J.P. Morgan. Fluent with Java and the Android SDK and experienced with Kotlin.

This highlights the person's relevant technical skills and shows their banking sector experience.

Avoid buzzwords

Avoid using generic phrases such as dynamic, motivated, or team player. They switch hiring managers off and do not make you stand out.

Speculative Applications

Use this section for speculative applications if you don't want to include a cover letter. You should explain what you feel you can add to the company (or team) which you wish to join.

Changing Career Direction

Use this section to explain why you're changing career direction. Highlight the transferable skills you can bring from your previous experience.