Put simply, a resume summary is a short block of text that appears below your name and contact information. It’s designed to provide a snapshot of your value and abilities and can be particularly handy for busy recruiters who may be speed-reading resumes.
Note that a resume summary differs slightly from a resume objective statement. Objectives are short (generally one-sentence) statements that explain the type of job a candidate is searching for. These were once more commonly used but are now only considered relevant for candidates in specific circumstances, such as those re-entering the job market or changing careers entirely. If these situations do not apply to you, you should use a summary statement instead.
While putting together a professional summary for a resume might seem straightforward, the difference between an adequate one and an outstanding one can be enough to set you apart from other candidates. Here are some tips to help you craft an exceptional summary.
Guidelines vary a bit, but a good rule of thumb is to keep your statement to around four lines or three to four short sentences. Don’t be afraid to make strategic cuts — look at everything with a critical eye, and if you’re running long, consider if statements are truly essential. Always keep in mind that the purpose of the resume summary is not to make a recruiter or manager think, "Wow, this person is the complete package, let's hire them," but rather, "Hmmm, this person looks like they could be a great addition to our team, let's find out more."
Sometimes it can be helpful to have a friend or professional connection in a similar field review your summary. An outsider's perspective can often pinpoint areas for improvement that you might not see.