The Art of Writing Resumes and Cover Letters: When to Use 'I'

In the world of professional communication, knowing when and how to use certain pronouns, such as 'I,' can significantly impact the effectiveness of your resume and cover letter. Whether to include the first-person pronoun in your resume or omit it entirely is a nuanced decision that depends on the context and the specific document you are putting together.

Why Resumes Often Avoid 'I'

A resume is a snapshot of your professional life, designed to showcase your skills, experience, and achievements in a clear, concise manner. The primary goal is to communicate your story in a way that highlights your unique value to potential employers. Because a resume is inherently about you, it’s often most effective to avoid explicit mentions of yourself, such as using the first-person pronoun 'I.' Instead, focus on strong action verbs and descriptive language to convey your contributions and accomplishments.

For example, instead of writing:

I led the team that completed the project on time and under budget.

It’s more impactful to write:

Lead the team that completed the project on time and under budget.

When Using 'I' is Justified in Resumes

Despite the common rule of avoiding 'I,' there are certain situations where using it can be beneficial. For instance, when writing a summary or objective statement, first-person pronouns can add power and personal flair:

Objective: To secure a position as Marketing Manager where I can leverage my extensive experience in digital marketing to drive growth and innovation.

Or in a summary section, where you can highlight your skills and experiences more effectively:

Summary: Experienced digital marketer with a proven track record of driving brand awareness and revenue growth through strategic marketing campaigns.

Cover Letters: Where 'I' Applies

A cover letter, on the other hand, is a different beast altogether. It's a personal letter intended to introduce you and your resume to potential employers. As such, using 'I' in your cover letter is not only acceptable but often encouraged. This is because the cover letter is a chance to demonstrate your unique personality, insights, and passion for the role you are applying for. Using first-person pronouns here helps convey your individuality and showcases your personal investment in the position:

For example:

I am excited to apply for the Senior Marketing Manager position at XYZ Corporation because of my passion for digital marketing and my proven ability to drive measurable results for clients.

Personal Pronouns in Professional Communication

Today's professional landscape is more open and inclusive than ever before. The use of personal pronouns in resumes, cover letters, and other professional documents can effectively communicate your strengths and personality. This approach not only engages the reader more but also humanizes your application, making you more relatable and memorable.

Final thoughts: Whether to use 'I' or not depends largely on the context. In a resume, it's more about skillful communication and impact, so stick to third-person unless it's a summary or objective. In a cover letter, embrace the opportunity to showcase your personality and passion through the use of first-person pronouns.