Listing Your Invention on Your Resume: How and Why

Listing an invention on your resume can be a valuable addition, especially if it's relevant to your field of work or demonstrates your innovative skills. Here's how to effectively list your invention on your resume:

1. Create a New Section: You can dedicate a section of your resume specifically to highlight your inventions. You might title this section "Inventions" or "Patents" to make it clear.

2. Include Basic Information: Start by providing basic information about the invention, such as its title, date of invention, and a brief description. This should give the reader a clear understanding of what your invention is.

3. Specify Your Role: Mention your role or contribution to the invention. Were you the sole inventor, part of a team, or a key contributor? Be clear about your involvement.

4. Patent Numbers: If applicable, include the patent number(s) associated with your invention. This adds credibility to your claim.

5. Highlight the Impact: Describe the impact or significance of your invention. Did it solve a specific problem, improve a process, or have practical applications? Explain how your invention made a difference.

6. Use Action Verbs: When describing your role and the impact of your invention, use action verbs to make your achievements stand out. For example, "Designed," "Developed," "Invented," "Implemented," etc.

7. Quantify the Impact: Whenever possible, quantify the impact of your invention. For instance, did it result in cost savings, increased efficiency, or revenue generation? Numbers and metrics can make your achievements more compelling.

8. Tailor to the Job: Customize the description of your invention to align with the job you're applying for. Emphasize aspects of your invention that are relevant to the position.

9. Highlight Relevant Skills: Mention any skills you gained or utilized during the invention process. This might include technical skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, or project management.

10. Be Honest and Verifiable: Only list inventions that are verifiable and accurately represent your contributions. Avoid exaggeration or claiming inventions you didn't play a significant role in developing.

11. Include a URL or Portfolio (Optional): If you have a portfolio or website showcasing your inventions, consider including a link in your resume. This allows potential employers to explore your work in more detail.

Here's an example of how you could list an invention on your resume:

Inventions

• Patent Title: "WidgetX: A Novel Energy-Efficient Device"
• Date of Invention: January 2020
• Role: Lead Inventor
• Description: Designed and developed WidgetX, a patented energy-efficient device that reduced power consumption by 30% in commercial buildings. Implemented advanced control algorithms and collaborated with a cross-functional team to bring the product to market.
• Patent Number: US1234567B

Remember that the decision to include your invention on your resume should be based on its relevance to the job you're applying for. If the invention demonstrates skills or expertise that are valuable to the prospective employer, it can be a powerful addition to your resume. However, if the invention is unrelated to the job or industry you're pursuing, you may choose to include it in a separate portfolio or discuss it during interviews when relevant.