Referencing oneself directly with first-person pronouns is generally discouraged in resume writing. Resumes are expected to present skills and experiences concisely and objectively, focusing on accomplishments rather than the individual performing them. For example, instead of “I led the project team,” a stronger phrasing would be “Led the project team” or “Project team leadership.” This approach emphasizes the action and result while maintaining a professional tone.
Objective language strengthens a resume by placing the emphasis on quantifiable achievements and demonstrable skills. Historically, resumes served as concise summaries of qualifications, prioritizing brevity and impact. This tradition continues, as recruiters often quickly scan documents, seeking concrete evidence of a candidate’s suitability. Eliminating unnecessary words, such as personal pronouns, contributes to a more impactful presentation of experience and abilities.