The Data Point #8: 5 Ways to Take Your Data Resume to the Next Level

Resumes are tough to put together for any job. But data resumes require a few key elements that can make them a little trickier to put together.

Technical resumes operate a bit differently than standard resumes. Many people aren't used to including a technical element. This is especially true for those with a non-tech background.

In a technical resume, you have to emphasize proficiency with tools as well as demonstrate ability.

Let’s go over a few best practices for putting together a solid data resume.

1 | Include a skills section

When it comes to technical roles, the tech stack you have matters. If you’re applying for a role that requires the use of SQL and Power BI then this must be obvious on your resume.

I recommend having a brief yet clear skills section near the top of your resume. It operates as a quick checklist for hiring managers to see that you have the skills they’re looking for.

Stack them in columns or a single horizontal row. Consider listing a few key functions along with them. For example: Excel (XLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, logical expressions).

Of course, only mention skills that you’re actually familiar with. Be honest.

2 | Talk about projects

This is perhaps THE most crucial step for an entry-level data analyst especially. But even for those with experience, this can be a powerful section to utilize. If you follow my content on LinkedIn, you know that I emphasize portfolios often.

If you don’t have professional data experience, then put this section first. If you do, then you can put it after your “Work Experience” section.

Add bullet points for these and treat them almost like you would job experience.

For those seeking entry-level roles, you’ll want to talk about personal projects. Talk about the tools you used along with some specific functions. It’s important to discuss your process here while highlighting key skills.

If you have professional data experience then talk about work projects. Talk about skills used but also the specific impact these projects had on the company.

Put 2-3 projects in this section. It’s okay to mix and match too. If you have 2 work projects you’re proud of and 1 personal project you love, that’s fine too.

Lastly, include hyperlinks to your portfolio for each project.

3 | Keep experience relevant

If you’re applying for a data analyst job, then it probably doesn’t matter that you worked at Chipotle 10 years ago.

The point is you don’t have to be exhaustive about your experience. Include only jobs that are relevant to the one you’re applying to now. Make sure the bullet points you list funnel through an analytical view.

Even if you don’t have any “relevant” experience, you can usually frame your job duties for the job you’re applying for. If you’re making the leap from a non-tech role, then you should be trying to use technical skills in your current job. That will help in situations like this.

Remember that your resume is your highlight reel. It’s not meant to include everything, only what matters.

4 | Quantify impact

Detailing impact takes an average resume and levels it up.

It’s not enough to say “what” you did. You have to explain “why” and “how” it mattered.

Google’s X-Y-Z resume formula is a helpful guide for writing your bullet points. Look it up and do some research. It takes practice at first, but after a while, it becomes second nature.

Use numbers. They stand out and they detail specific metrics. It will be harder to include numbers for some roles as compared to others but do your best to include them.

5 | Keep it concise

One of my favorite quotes on this subject comes from Mark Twain.

There’s power in brevity.

Editing takes time but it’s a sign of good work. Don’t ramble. Don’t be exhaustive.

The main reason you want to keep it brief is to hold recruiter attention. If you say too much, they’ll quickly lose interest. With 100’s of applications to sift through, they’re not going to spend 15 minutes reading your essay. Keep it short and powerful.

Hemingway App is great for this. It’s an online tool that helps you write better. Check it out.

That’s it for this week friends.

See you next time ✌️

Whenever you’re ready, there are 2 ways I can help you:

1. If you’re looking to create a data portfolio but aren’t sure where to start, I’d recommend this ebook:

   1. The Data Portfolio Guidebook: Learn how to think like an analyst, develop a portfolio and LinkedIn profile, and tackle the job hunt. Join 400+ learners here.

2. For help navigating the data job hunt, consider booking a 1:1 career call with me.

   1. Schedule a time here.