Stage Manager Resume

As a stage manager, you’re responsible for making productions run smoothly from inception to completion. So your resume for a stage manager job needs to demonstrate your ability to effectively manage all aspects of productions, including budgeting, scheduling, and stagecraft.

Here are three tips for writing a job-winning stage manager resume:

1. Put hard numbers in the stage manager job descriptions on your resume

Stage manager job descriptions on resumes are generally straightforward. They list stage management duties for each stage of the production process. But there’s one important element that many stage manager applicants overlook: hard numbers.

Let’s say you’re applying for a stage manager job that requires two years of relevant experience. When you write your resume’s work experience section, you could simply list your prior stage managing experience, showing that you meet the minimum requirements. However, if you also include hard numbers describing the scope of your experience, you’re much more likely to get an interview.

For instance, you might mention that you’ve managed stage productions with budgets totaling $50,000 and cast and crew sizes of up to 50 people. These details indicate that you can manage complex productions, which is an important skill for any stage manager.

Here are three resume bullet points with examples of how to add hard numbers to your stage manager resume:

2. Showcase your stage manager skills

Stage managers are responsible for keeping each project on track. When hiring managers read your resume, they’ll look for both hard and soft skills that show you can successfully oversee their productions.

These are some important hard skills to highlight on your stage manager resume:

• Scheduling
• Set building
• Stage safety
• Costumes and props
• Audio and lighting
• Stage directions
• Wireless headsets and earpieces

And here are examples of soft skills that employers look for on resumes for stage manager positions:

• Organizational skills
• Communication skills
• Ability to stay calm under pressure
• Problem-solving skills
• Teamwork
• Delegation
• Attention to detail

3. Pick the right format for your stage manager resume

Wondering how to format your resume for a stage manager job? The answer is based on your experience level:

If you have limited or no stage management experience, choose the functional resume format, which focuses on highlighting your skills and education rather than your work history. Arranging your stage manager resume this way emphasizes your unique strengths and qualifications while downplaying your lack of experience.

If you have several years of experience as a stage manager, use the chronological resume format. The chronological format leads with your work history, listing your most recent experience first to show your career progression.