The statement of qualifications and the summary of qualifications (both called SOQ) are two often-confused terms. In general, a company writes a rather lengthy statement of qualifications that might make them the best company for providing services or materials, or to attract investors. Nonprofit corporations may write a SOQ in order to show their charitable abilities, business plan and mission statement.

Additionally, a statement of qualifications may include things like company history. The SOQ might list the company's tax identification number for handy reference and contact information. It may also summarize the organization’s different departments or number of employees.

A SOQ may be provided on a website. In fact one can view numerous SOQs from both profit and nonprofit corporations online. The SOQ is also usually available in print form for prospective investors, purchasers, or those who wish to donate money.

Conversely, a summary of qualifications is written by the resume writer, and usually consists of two to three sentences, which are meant to emphasize the job seeker's best skills for the job to which he or she is applying. In a sense, both types of SOQ serve a similar purpose. They are meant to impress their readers into hiring them for the job or otherwise responding positively.

Another possible definition for SOQ is the lengthy SOQ that might be required by someone bidding on a job, like a contractor. Generally this statement is much longer than a resume SOQ. The goal of “getting the job” remains the same. An SOQ from a contractor might include references to past projects, as well as listing the contractor’s experience. An SOQ may be required in addition to a resume for the contractor.

Adding a summary of qualifications on a resume for a simple job is optional. However, the SOQ of this type can be an excellent way of calling attention to one’s superlative qualities. A well-composed SOQ can elicit good feelings from a potential employer. Whereas, most of the resume is a list of skills and education, a sentence or two summarizes the list and is thus a handy reference tool.