This is the most important place in your CV to personalise. It is your best opportunity to capture the attention of the hiring manager and convince him or her of your suitability for the role. From your research, you should have gleaned:

• What skills and experience the hiring manager is looking for
• What added value the successful candidate can bring to the company
• What the company values are
• Why you are the best match for the job

For example, if the advertisement is for an Office Manager who has a Business Administration qualification with strong interpersonal skills; can manage the office and lead a team; and uphold the values of the organisation which are leadership and ownership;

Your summary could read:

“I am an Office Manager with ten years’ experience and hold a Business Administration qualification. A charismatic communicator, I understand the importance of stakeholder engagement in achieving outcomes. Passionate about people, I lead high-performing teams and empower them to achieve their goals. I am results-driven, proactive and accountable.”