Crafting a Standout Resume for Business Graduate Students

In a competitive job landscape, a well-crafted resume holds the key to securing your next role in the business world. It serves as your initial introduction to potential employers, so make every word count. Below, find valuable insights to ensure you stand out:

Start with a Strong Summary of Qualifications:

Begin your resume with a compelling summary of qualifications, or professional profile section that highlights your relevant accomplishments, skills, and what makes you a unique candidate. Tailor this section to the job posting so your alignment to the role is recognized right away!

Emphasize Your Quantifiable Achievements and Skills:

Employers value candidates who can demonstrate their impact. Use metrics and numbers to showcase your accomplishments, such as revenue growth, cost savings, or project success rates. Focus your relevant skills, both technical and soft (or durable) skills – including those acquired during your graduate degree program and developed throughout your career.

Tailor Your Resume for Each Application:

Avoid sending out generic resumes. Customize your resume by highlighting the skills and experiences that align with the specific requirements of the role or program.

2 Pages is OK:

Your MBA resume may stretch to two pages if you have extensive experience. Use the space you need to include all or your relevant experiences and accomplishments.

Create an Easy-to-Follow Format:

Ensure it’s well-organized, with a clean and professional format. Use clear headings and bullet points for readability.

Include Relevant Experiences:

Prioritize experiences that are directly related to your goals. Draw from your current role, course projects, or internships to demonstrate you have the skills they need.

Utilize Action Verbs and Strong Language:

Use action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” or “implemented” to describe your responsibilities and achievements. Make your language concise, powerful, and results oriented.

Proofread and Edit:

A single typo can make a negative impression. Proofread your resume thoroughly and ask a friend or mentor to review it as well. Ensure that your formatting is consistent and professional.


Crafting a standout resume requires careful reflection, attention to detail, and a focus on highlighting your unique qualifications and experiences. Spend time ensuring your resume reflects your career goals, highlights your accomplishments, and connects to the specific role you seek!

Check out the Career Management Center’s graduate resume samples for ideas. For additional support, schedule an appointment with a career counselor at the CMC.

By Lorie Humphrey
Lorie Humphrey Career Counselor