How to Write a STAR Method Resume (with Examples)

The STAR method is a highly effective technique for showcasing accomplishments on your resume.

We’ll show you how to master the STAR method and use it to create a compelling resume.

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What is the STAR method?

The STAR method uses your work history and qualifications to create concrete examples of times when you exceeded expectations.

A STAR method resume contains work experience bullet points that answer the following questions:

• Situation: What situation or challenge did you face?
• Task: What task were you involved in? What were your responsibilities and goals?
• Action: What actions did you specifically take to achieve the task? How did you contribute to your team’s efforts?
• Result: What was the outcome of your actions? How did it benefit your company? Can it be quantified?

STAR statements can be a single bullet point, or multiple bullet points. These bullet points don’t need to be in order.

Let’s take a look at two examples:

In some instances, Situation and Task can be categorized together.

By providing detailed insight into your previous job duties and turning them into practical examples, you give the hiring manager a clear picture of your accomplishments.

In addition to using the STAR method on your resume, you can apply it to interviews, like in the video below.

@resumegenius “Tell me about a time you worked well under pressure.” Behavioral interview question using the STAR method #starmethod #interviewtips #jobinterviewtips #careertips #gettingajob #behavioralinterview ♬ Monkeys Spinning Monkeys – Kevin MacLeod & Kevin The Monkey

Why should I use the STAR method on my resume?

There are many benefits to using the STAR method for your resume. Employers generally look for evidence of these three things when vetting candidates:

• a solid understanding of your own job qualifications and work history
• specific, practical experiences that are relevant to the role you’re applying for
• your ability to communicate your value concisely and confidently

A STAR statement achieves all of these goals and proves that you have the skills and knowledge needed for the position.

Additionally, it gives you an advantage over generic resumes because it shows you put time and effort into personalizing your application.

How do I create a resume using the STAR method?

To create a STAR method resume, write accomplishment-oriented statements that are relevant to your application.

Here’s how to use the STAR method when you write your work experience section:

1. Study the job description carefully for the position you want

Look for resume keywords that describe the qualities, experiences, and skills the employer wants. This will give you a good idea of what kind of challenges you might face at your new job.

Then, create a list of the abilities and experiences that match your own.

2. Write down what you accomplished in your previous jobs

Writing down accomplishments from your career will make it easier to create STAR bullet points once you start writing your resume. Don’t forget to use hard numbers when describing your achievements. Hard numbers command attention and provide specifics about your resume achievements.

Compare these two examples:

The first example is much more impactful than the second because it provides more details about the achievement in question.

3. Write your bullet points

Go through your list of accomplishments and pick out ones that showcase the qualities and experiences you listed in step one.

Once you have three to five achievements for each job role on your resume, start putting them into bullet point format according to the STAR method.

After you’re done, here’s what a job entry on your resume could look like if you were a recent graduate:

Here are our finished STAR bullet points for a recent graduate:

Here’s a second STAR method example showing how an experienced job applicant would write their STAR statements:

When writing your STAR method resume, remember to use the active voice instead of passive voice.

“Successfully hired and onboarded 50+ employees” sounds more impressive and dynamic than “50+ employees were successfully hired and onboarded”.

If you’re still unsure how to use the STAR method, check out industry-specific resume samples to get an idea of how to present your accomplishments properly.

You can also try using our pre-formatted resume templates to save time, or have a look through our resume tips so you can get to work on perfecting your STAR statements and writing a memorable resume.