Grammar for Resumes and Interviews

Source: https://www.thoughtco.com/interview-basics-1210228

 

It is important to use the correct verb tenses on your resume and in a job interview to describe your past and present work, and what you hope to do in the future. This article has more information about how to use different verb tenses in your job search. 

Tense: Present Simple (Use for current job about activities you do all the time)

• Example: I collect data from all of our branches and analyze the information on a weekly basis.
• Explanation: Use the present simple to describe your daily responsibilities. This is the most common tense to use when speaking about your current position.

Tense: Past Simple (Use for past jobs)

• Example: I developed an in-house database for the personnel department.
• Explanation: Use the past simple to describe your daily responsibilities in a former position. This is the most common tense to use when speaking about past jobs.

Tense: Present Continuous (Use for current job about a special project or activity you are working on right now)

• Example: Currently, we are expanding our sales division to include South America.
• Example: Currently, I am designing a new layout for our local branch. I am usually responsible for staff organization, but they asked me to help out with design this time. 
• Explanation: Use the present continuous to speak about current projects that are happening at that moment in time. These projects are limited in time and should not be confused with daily responsibilities. 

Tense: Present Perfect (Use to summarize things you have done up until now)

• Example: I've researched over 300 cases until now.
• Example: I've developed a number of databases using Microsoft Access. Just last week I finished a database for our warehouse.
• Explanation: Use the present perfect to generally describe projects or accomplishments that you have made up to the present moment in time. Remember not to include specific past time references which should be used with the past simple.

Tense: Future Simple (Use for future plans/goals)

• Example: I will be the manager of a medium sized retail outlet.
• Explanation: Use the future simple to discuss your plans for the future. This tense is only used when the interviewer asks you what you plan to do in the future.

There are many more tenses you can use when you're ready, but these five will be a great way to start!