Why You Need to Start Using STAR Resume Bullets Right Now
Jun 20, 2023
Your ability to quantify your experiences is your ticket to your next job opportunity. To stand out in a competitive job market, it’s important to quantify your experiences with specific achievements that demonstrate your impact as an educator. The easiest way to accomplish this is to use the STAR method when crafting each resume bullet.
The STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method is a powerful tool when it comes to transforming your skills into an expertly written resume bullet. Start by identifying a specific situation. Essentially, it is the problem you’re solving or the “why” you are doing a specific task in the first place. Then describe the task you were responsible for, the action(s) you took to accomplish that task, and finally the results or outcomes of your efforts.
One example of the STAR method in action is by a teacher highlighting their fundraising experience:
Plug these into my easy resume bullet formula, and voila!
[Compelling verb] [brief explanation of action/task] resulting in [result for x situation, %, $, #, etc. are always helpful!].
*Depending on the bullet, the order can be flexible, as you will see in the examples below.
So, their resume bullet became:
This format helps to provide context and tells a story about your experience as a teacher in a way that resonates with corporate employers. It also shows that you are skilled in problem-solving, decision-making, and executing strategies.
Read on to explore 10 more original resume bullets and the rewritten STAR resume bullets from real teachers.
Teacher 1: Increased Student Achievement
This client wanted to highlight that she improved student test scores, grades, and other measures of success.
Her original bullets:
- Developed and implemented personalized lesson plans
- Taught students using differentiated instruction
Our rewritten STAR bullets:
Teacher 2: Developed Curriculum
This client wanted to mention that she developed new course materials and adapted existing ones to meet changing standards.
Her original bullets:
- Developed curriculum for high school English course
- Created curriculum map and instructional program
Our rewritten STAR bullets:
Teacher 3: Trained Other Educators
This client wanted to showcase the professional development workshops he led to improve instructional practices.
His original bullets:
- Conducted a professional development workshop on assessment strategies
- Delivered summer training on student engagement strategies
Our rewritten STAR bullets:
Teacher 4: Innovated Instructional Techniques
This client wanted to highlight the innovative approaches she developed to engage and motivate students and colleagues.
Her original bullets:
- Designed and implement interactive lab activities
- Trained 10 teachers on technology integration
Our rewritten STAR bullets:
Teacher 5: Created Learning Materials
This client was excited to share the materials she developed, such as lesson plans, study guides, and assessments.
Her original bullets:
- Developed online learning modules for 8th grade mathematics course
- Authored customized vocabulary practice guides for diverse learners
Our rewritten STAR bullets:
Creating an impactful resume takes practice and effort, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor. Now that you understand the basics of quantifying your experiences with the STAR method, you are better equipped to create an impressive resume that will get you noticed in this competitive job market. With the right bullets, stories, and accomplishments showcasing your unique abilities and achievements as an educator, your resume will stand out amongst the crowd.
Ready to create your quantified resume in 5 easy steps? <--Click on this link and let's get started!
