What is a “Proof Bullet” and how do you create it?

What it is

A proof bullet is a tiny “mini-receipt” that shows you actually did something real.

It’s like showing a report card instead of saying, “Trust me, I’m smart.”

Bad (fluffy) example:

“I’m results-driven and a strong leader.” ❌

Good (proof) example:

“Cut shipping errors by 20% in 3 months by changing the checking process.” ✅

How to create it (easy steps)

Use this simple formula:

Result + Number + Time + What you did

Step-by-step:

1. Pick one win you had at work.
2. Ask: What improved? (speed, money, quality, customer happiness)
3. Add a number (a percent, dollars, time saved, volume)
4. Add time (in 6 weeks, in 3 months, in one quarter)
5. Add what you did (new system, new process, coached team, fixed tool)

Example proof bullets

• “Reduced customer complaints 30% in 8 weeks by updating the support scripts and training the team.”
• “Increased sales meetings booked from 6/week to 12/week in one month by improving outreach targeting.”
• “Saved 10 hours per week for the team by automating weekly reporting.”

If you don’t know your number, you can use a credible proxy:

• “Saved the team several hours a week…” (then later replace with a real number)