Resume Writing Tips for Communications Manager

Introduction

The role of a communications manager is multifaceted, requiring a blend of creativity, analytical skills, leadership, and proficiency in various communication tools. A strong resume not only highlights your experience and skills but also showcases your ability to drive measurable impact. Whether you’re managing corporate communications, public relations, social media, or internal messaging, your resume should clearly communicate your value proposition, backed by quantifiable achievements. This guide will walk you through essential tips to help your resume pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and impress human readers alike.

1. Resume Summary

Your resume summary is your elevator pitch—a concise overview of your professional brand, core competencies, and key accomplishments. It should immediately tell recruiters why you’re the best fit for the communications manager position.

Example: Results-driven communications manager with over 7 years of experience leading integrated PR campaigns and internal communications for Fortune 500 companies. Expert in strategic messaging, stakeholder engagement, and digital media management, with a proven record of increasing brand visibility by 40% year-over-year.

2. Key Skills

Highlighting the right skills, both hard and soft, ensures your resume passes ATS filters and appeals to recruiters. Focus on skills most relevant to communications management.

• Strategic Communication Planning
• Media Relations
• Content Development & Copywriting
• Public Relations
• Social Media Management
• Crisis Communication
• Internal Communications
• Brand Management
• Project Management
• Analytical & Data-Driven Insights

3. Achievements vs. Responsibilities

Focus your resume on achievements rather than just listing responsibilities. Specific accomplishments demonstrate your ability to deliver results and add value beyond daily tasks. Achievements should emphasize impact, growth, or improvement supported by metrics.

Example: Instead of "Managed social media accounts," write "Increased social media engagement by 60% in 12 months through targeted content strategy and influencer partnerships."

4. Tailor to Job

Customize your resume for each application by carefully analyzing the job description. Use keywords exact to the role, align your skills and achievements with the company’s priorities, and reflect the language used by the employer. Tailoring increases your chances of passing ATS and resonates better with hiring managers.

5. Tools

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Google Workspace
• HubSpot CRM
• Hootsuite / Sprout Social (Social Media Management)
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)
• Google Analytics
• Mailchimp / Constant Contact (Email Marketing)
• Content Management Systems (e.g., WordPress)
• SEO Tools (e.g., SEMrush, Moz)
• Project Management Platforms (e.g., Trello, Asana)

6. Metrics

• Increased brand engagement by X% over a specific period
• Grew social media followers by X within Y months
• Reduced communication costs by X% through strategic vendor negotiations
• Achieved media placements in X number of national outlets
• Improved employee engagement scores by X through revamped internal communications

7. Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field
• Relevant certifications such as Accredited in Public Relations (APR), HubSpot Content Marketing Certification, or a Digital Marketing Credential

8. Format

• Use clean, professional fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Helvetica
• Keep consistent formatting and bullet styles for readability
• Limit to two pages maximum
• Optimize for ATS by avoiding tables, graphics, and unusual formatting

9. Concise

Your resume should be clear and concise. Use action verbs and avoid jargon. Write bullet points that are brief yet informative, focusing on specific results rather than vague descriptions.

10. Bonus

• Include links to your professional portfolio, LinkedIn profile, or personal website
• Showcase leadership by mentioning teams managed or cross-functional projects led

Examples

• “Led a cross-departmental campaign that boosted product launch media coverage by 75%, resulting in a 30% increase in sales within the first quarter.”
• “Implemented a revamped internal newsletter that increased employee readership from 40% to 85%, strengthening corporate culture and communication flow.”

Conclusion

Crafting an effective communications manager resume requires more than a list of duties—it demands a clear demonstration of your impact, leadership capabilities, and strategic analytical skills. By emphasizing measurable achievements, relevant skills, and tailored messaging, you position yourself as a proactive and results-oriented professional. Remember that your resume is a reflection of your communication expertise, so make every word count and format it for clarity and ATS compatibility. With these tips, you’re poised to land interviews and advance your communications career.