To get a job as a grant writer, your resume needs to be clear and persuasive. This article offers proven resume examples and strategic tips to help you showcase your skills. We will cover how to highlight your writing abilities, your understanding of grant applications, and your experience managing projects. With the right approach, you can create a strong resume that will catch the attention of hiring managers.
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Here's what we see in top grant writer resumes.
Show Impact With Numbers: The best resumes show impact by using numbers. Examples include:
Include Relevant Skills: Include skills on your resume that you have and are mentioned on the job description. Some popular ones are
Show Writing Samples: Include snippets of your writing. Examples:
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As a grant writer, where you place your education on your resume sends a message about its current relevance to your capacity. If you are new to the workforce or your latest schooling strongly connects with grant writing, such as a degree in English, Communications, or Nonprofit Management, you should list your education before your experience. This helps hiring managers see your foundational knowledge quickly.
If you have been working as a grant writer or in a related position for some time, your real-world experience takes the spotlight. In such cases, detail your experience first. Any advanced coursework or certifications specific to grant writing or fundraising that enhances your expertise should come next, showcasing your commitment to staying current in the field.
Include successful grant proposals you have written. Highlight their impact and funding amounts. This shows your ability to secure grants.
Describe the organizations you worked with and how you supported their missions. This highlights your commitment and skills in the field.
For grant writing positions, aim for conciseness. If you have less than 10 years of experience, keep your resume to one page. This shows you can prioritize information effectively. Focus on your most relevant grant writing successes, like successful funding achieved or complex proposals managed.
For more seasoned professionals, two pages can be appropriate to cover your wide range of experiences. Remember, the best information should be on the first page to capture attention quickly. Use larger margins and a clear font to ensure good readability, which is more important than squeezing in less critical information.
List software tools you have used for grant writing, like database systems or project management tools. Showing your technical skills can set you apart.
Include any specific formats or guidelines you are familiar with, such as government grant requirements or private foundation criteria. This shows your versatility.
When you apply for a job as a grant writer, your resume may first be read by a computer program called an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). It's important to make your resume ATS-friendly so it reaches a hiring manager. Here are steps you can take:
Make sure your experience stands out by clearly listing your successful grant applications and the funds you helped to secure. Highlight your ability to research and match funding opportunities with a clear, easy-to-read layout.