Stage Manager Resume Example & Writing Guide

Stage managers are responsible for the smooth operation of live performances. They coordinate all aspects of the show, including scheduling rehearsals, booking talent, and organizing the crew. They make sure everything runs on time and without a hitch, so it’s important that stage managers are organized, detail-oriented, and able to handle high-pressure situations with ease.

If you’re looking for a role that offers plenty of variety and opportunity for creativity, stage managing could be the perfect fit for you. Follow these tips and resume example to write a compelling stage manager resume that will land you an interview in no time.

How to Write a Stage Manager Resume

Here’s how to write a stage manager resume of your own.

Write Compelling Bullet Points

When you’re writing your resume, it can be tempting to use vague language and generic bullet points. But the more specific and detailed you can be, the better.

For example, rather than saying you “managed stage crew for live performances,” you could say that you “managed stage crew for six-hour live broadcast of Saturday Night Live, resulting in zero delays or disruptions during live performances.”

The second bullet point is much stronger because it provides specific details about what you did and the results of your work. It also provides a quantifiable result (zero delays or disruptions during live performances).

Related: What Is a Stage Manager? How to Become One

Identify and Include Relevant Keywords

When you submit your resume for a stage manager role, it’s likely that it will go through an applicant tracking system (ATS). This system will scan your resume for certain keywords related to the job opening. If your resume doesn’t have enough of the right keywords, the ATS might disqualify you from the pool of candidates.

The best way to make sure your resume makes it past the ATS is to include keywords that are commonly found in stage manager job postings. Here are some examples:

Showcase Your Technical Skills

Stage managers use a variety of technology in their work, from lighting and sound systems to computer-assisted design (CAD) software. So it’s important for stage managers to list their technical skills on their resumes.

Some of the programs and systems that stage managers are typically expected to be proficient in include: CAD software, lighting control software, sound control software, and stage management software. Additionally, stage managers should be familiar with sound and lighting terminology and how to use it to create a desired effect.

Related: How Much Does a Stage Manager Make?

Remember The Basics

As you draft your resume, there are a few basic rules to keep in mind.

Create Easy-to Scan Sections

There are a few things you can do to make your resume stand out and easier to read, such as using unusual fonts, lots of color, or graphics. However, it is important to remember that the most important thing is that your resume is easy to understand, so try to stick to a simple, standard font. You should also use left-aligned text, limit the use of bolding, italics, and all-caps, and use bullets instead of paragraphs to list your experiences. Finally, make sure you have some white space on the page to help the recruiter scan through your resume quickly.

Be Concise

There is no set length for a resume, but a one-page resume is typically preferable for recent graduates and those early in their careers. If you have more experience, you can make a two-page resume, but be selective about the information you include. It’s important to tailor your resume to the specific role and to focus on the most relevant information. When in doubt, less is more.

Proofread

Proofreading your resume is an important step in ensuring that it looks its best. There are a few key things to watch for: spelling mistakes, punctuation mistakes, and grammatical mistakes. You should also be aware of easily confused words, such as their/there/they’re and to/too/two. Spell checking your resume is a good start, but you should also have someone else proofread it for you to catch any mistakes that you may have missed.

Consider a Summary

A resume summary statement can be a great way to introduce yourself to a potential employer. By highlighting your skills and experience, as well as your future goals, you can show the recruiter that you have the qualifications and ambition they are looking for. In just a few sentences, you can outline what you do, what your best skills are, and what you’re hoping to do next. This can help to give the recruiter a better understanding of who you are and what you have to offer.

Related Resume Examples

• Production Manager
• Technical Director
• Costume Designer
• Lighting Technician
• Sound Technician
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