how to make work resume

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Resume (With Examples!)

Your resume is arguably the most valuable piece of paper for your career. But this document can be daunting for many. Maybe you’re not sure how to fit in all your information onto one page. Maybe you’re not sure about the right way to format and write your resume. Maybe you don’t even know what the heck a resume is!

Whatever your concern, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the perfect resume, from scratch.

What Is a Resume?

What are employers looking for in a resume.

• Pick Your Format
• Start With Your Basic Information
• Add in Your Work Experience
• Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience
• Don’t Forget Your Education
• Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests
• Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)
• Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)
• Edit and Refine It

What Are Some Examples of a Good Resume?

A resume is a summary of your career, whether yours is just getting started or has been going on for years. Coming in at around one page in length (two only under specific circumstances), it showcases the jobs you’ve held and currently hold, the responsibilities you’ve taken on, the skills you’ve developed, and the qualities you bring to the table as an employee. Together, those things make it super easy for any hiring manager to see your qualifications and fit for a role.

For all the work you may put into writing one, hiring managers actually spend very little time—mere seconds in many cases—looking at your resume. But despite this sad fact, it’s safe to say that creating a great resume (rather than hastily throwing one together) still matters.

“If you miss the mark, your resume may never be read. Even worse, you might be removed from the applicant pool by a computer before a human even knows you exist,” says Muse career coach Heather Yurovsky , founder of Shatter & Shine. So you want to get it right because, as she explains, isn’t the goal to “spend less time looking for a job and more time in a role you love?”

You might be wondering if you can lean on your LinkedIn profile instead of writing a resume. The answer, sadly, is no. Most hiring managers still expect you to submit a resume, even if they also look at your LinkedIn. Even if you don’t need a resume for a job you’re applying for now, you’re going to need one at some point in your career—they’re not anywhere close to going out of style. So it’s best to always have one at the ready should an opportunity pop up.

And although LinkedIn has plenty of benefits, a resume has one clear advantage: While your LinkedIn is usually a broader picture of your career trajectory, your resume gives you the opportunity to tailor your career story to a specific role or company (more on that later).

Oh, and you’ve probably heard of something called a CV? It’s slightly different from a resume , and usually more common with academics and job seekers outside the U.S.

Hiring managers look for three things on your resume, “What did you do? Why did you do it? And what was the result?” says Muse career coach Martin McGovern , owner of Career Therapy. “If you can answer all three of these questions in...your resume bullet points, you’re going to be on the right track.”

Clear, easy-to-understand language is key. “The truth is that most resumes make no sense. They are stuffed with jargon, they are too technical, and they are filled with redundancies. Try to read a resume that isn’t yours and you will quickly realize that it feels like an alien wrote it,” McGovern adds. Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter who has no idea how your role works—how can you make your resume accessible to them?

The hiring manager also cares about more than just you and you alone—they care about you in relation to them. “Hiring managers want to see if a candidate matches the requirements” of the role they’re hiring for, Yurovsky explains. “Your resume should paint this picture so the hiring manager not only knows what day-to-day responsibilities you can handle, but why you, above other[s], bring value to their organization.”

How Do You Write a Resume?

Whether you’re someone who’s never written a resume in your life, or you need a nice, thorough refresher on the process of creating one, follow these steps to go from a blank page to a complete—and dare I say beautiful—document.

Related: This Free Worksheet Makes It Easy to Create (or Update) Your Resume

1. Pick Your Format

Before you start typing one single thing, you have to decide what you want the overall resume to look like.

Resume builders can be helpful for this step—they’ll take all your basic information and organize it for you, eliminating some of the legwork. You can also use a pre-made outline, such as one of these free Google Docs templates .

But it’s often safest to start with a clean slate all on your own and eventually upgrade to a more advanced layout. (If you'd still like a place to write all the relevant information before you get started, check out our resume outline .) This allows you to course correct, edit and re-edit, and choose a resume format that best fits your particular situation (after all, not everyone has a career trajectory that’s easy to compartmentalize).

In general, you’re most likely to cover and/or include sections on the following:

• Your work experience
• Your non-work experience, including professional organizations, community involvement, or side projects
• Your education and certifications
• Your skills (specifically hard skills) and interests

So how do you format and organize all of that information?

By far the most common (and safest, if you’re not sure which route to take) option is reverse chronological order . This means you organize your experiences from most recent to least recent. So your work experiences would go above your education, and your current role would go above previous roles you’ve held. This of course has its exceptions—maybe you went back to grad school between jobs, or your most recent role is irrelevant to the job you’re applying for. So the whole page may not be exactly in reverse chronological order depending on your situation. It’s just a guideline.

There’s also something called a functional or skills-based resume . This is used pretty rarely, mainly with career changers and those with limited or complicated work histories. It gets its name because it’s primarily about listing your skills rather than experiences, and showcases them above your work history and education.

You can also opt for a combination resume , which is a mix between a reverse chronological resume and skills-based resume. It highlights your skills at the top, but allows just as much room below to cover your job and school experience.

Use caution when choosing these two formats: “Combo and skills-based [resumes] can be hard to follow, because [they force] the reader to hunt for connections between your skills and experience, and [don’t] provide the full context of your work,” says Muse Career Coach Angela Smith , founder of Loft Consulting. “I’ve also heard a lot of recruiters say that they automatically discount skill-based resumes because they feel the candidate is trying to hide something. I don’t necessarily believe that, but I think it’s important for job-seekers to know that perception is out there.”

2. Start With Your Basic Information

Your contact information should always go at the top of your resume. In this header you’ll want to include anything that could be helpful for a recruiter to get in touch with you. Usually, this means adding in:

• Your full name (preferably the name you use across the web)
• Your phone number
• Your personal email address

You might also choose to include other basic information, such as your LinkedIn or personal website URL, your GitHub (for technical roles), your social media profiles (if relevant to the job), or your address. If you’re looking to move for a job, you may choose to leave out your address or write “open to relocating” to better your chances of getting an interview.

The key is to make this part as clear as possible. If a hiring manager can’t reach you, there’s no point in perfecting the rest of your resume.

3. Add in Your Work Experience

This section will most likely be the bulk of your resume. Even if you’re changing careers, employers still want to see where you’ve worked, what you’ve done, and the impact of that work to get a sense of your background and expertise.

Your “Work Experience” might be one entire category, or you might choose to break it up into “Relevant Experience” and “Additional Experience” to highlight the jobs that are most important for hiring managers to focus on. Either way, you’ll almost always want to have your most recent experience at the top and your older experience down below.

Within your work experience, you’ll want to include each official job title, the company (and possibly its location), and the years you worked there. Below that, you’ll add in two to four bullet points explaining what you did in that job, the skills you built and exercised, the tools you used, and the results of what you did. If you accomplished a lot during your time there, focus on the responsibilities that made the most impact or you’re the most proud of, as well as the ones that best align you with the job you’re applying for (more on that in the following sections). It’s key here to list, if relevant, quantitative as well as qualitative accomplishments.

For example, you might write:

Associate Accountant, Finances and Co., Ann Arbor, MI September 2017 – Present

• Manage billing and invoicing for more than 50 clients, ensuring the deadlines and needs of our enterprise partners, including Big Company and Super Star Org, are met
• Collaborate closely with sales, account management, and project management teams on project setup, maintenance, and invoice management
• Assist in the streamlining of invoicing guidelines and procedures through documentation and the implementation of new software, resulting in an average two-week decrease in total time spent per client

Your resume bullets should be in past tense if you’re referring to past jobs and present tense if you’re talking about your current roles. In addition, your bullets should always start with a strong action verb that best describes what you did. And if you have examples of your work, consider hyperlinking them here as well.

If you have a ton of experience and this category is starting to run long (read: over one page), consider kicking out your oldest jobs unless they’re super relevant to the job you’re applying for, or extra impressive for your field.

Not sure where to start? “It’s helpful to do a brain dump and create a document that has everything and anything you consider as experience or an achievement,” says Yurovsky. From there, she explains, you can start to whittle down what is and isn’t important. And you can refer to this document later if you ever decide to update your resume for a specific role.

Need more specific advice on listing your work experience on your resume? Check out these additional resources:

• When you’ve held multiple jobs at the same company: 2 Jobs, 1 Company: How to Show Multiple Positions on Your Resume
• When you’re not sure what your accomplishments are or how to explain them: Resume Revamp: How to Turn Your Duties Into Accomplishments
• When you want to spruce up a boring or insignificant job: How to Make Your Most Boring Jobs Sound More Interesting on Your Resume
• When you’re considering fudging a job title: The Answer to “Can I Change My Job Title on My Resume to Make It More Accurate?”
• When you’ve had a bunch of short-term gigs: How to List Temporary Jobs on Your Resume

4. Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience

Anything you’ve done that’s not work experience—your side gig, volunteer work, special projects—can be hosted under clearly-labeled sections (“Volunteer Experience” or “Activities,” for example). Depending on how robust your work experience is, these things may be worth including, particularly if they’ve helped you level up your skill set or better align you with your dream job. Plus, they make you look that much more well-rounded, passionate, and hardworking.

If you’re a recent grad, you might also build out a section for on-campus activities, such as clubs, organizations, or leadership experience. This can be a great supplement if you’re lacking in the jobs department. You can frame these just as you would professional jobs—including your title, the organization’s name, and bullets describing what your role was and what you accomplished.

Read More: This Is Exactly How to List Volunteer Work on Your Resume

5. Don’t Forget Your Education

If you’re still in school or just graduated, your education can go at the top of your resume, but for pretty much everyone else, this goes near the bottom. Most people include their school, graduation year (for folks less up to about a decade out of school), major, and degree. Brand-new grads might also write in their GPA, honors and awards, study abroad, thesis, or other notable achievements. But keep this section super simple, as you don’t want it to take up too much space over your work experience.

It’s possible you have unique education experience, such as taking an online course or certification. If you did this specifically as a way to boost yourself within your industry, definitely include it. Again, list everything more or less reverse chronologically—so a grad school degree would go above an undergrad degree, and a more recent relevant online course would go above that.

Learn more about the ins and outs of listing your education on your resume:

• How to (and How Not to) List Education on Your Resume
• How to List Online Courses on Your Resume the Right Way (Because Yes, There Is a Wrong Way)

6. Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests

The skills section of a resume gets a bad rap, but it’s just as important as the rest of the stuff you include. It’s a quick list a recruiter can scan to see if your skill set aligns with what they’re hiring for. And it’s super ATS-friendly (ATS stands for “applicant tracking system,” the robot that in some cases reads your resume before a human does) because it allows you to add in keywords the machine is scanning for.

Usually this section goes at the bottom of your resume, but in special cases—such as a skills-based resume or when someone’s switching fields—you may place it further up.

What exactly do you throw in here? You’ll want to list any hard skills and applications you’re familiar with (Photoshop, SEO, JavaScript, to name a few examples), and, if relevant, your level of expertise. Avoid including soft skills here, like time management or public speaking—save those for your bullet points instead.

Be strategic when filling in your skills. Don’t list things you actually couldn’t do at a high competence level (I’m looking at those of you who say you’re “great” at Excel), and maybe nix skills that are completely irrelevant to the job you want. For example, you may not even need to include Excel if you’re applying for say, a design position, unless it’s listed as a job requirement.

Maybe you’re thinking, I’m a really good volleyball player, but that’s not a “skill,” right? No, it’s not, but it is a hobby. Adding in a hobby section at the bottom of your resume is underrated, and frequently a smart choice. It can be a great conversation starter with a hiring manager, and it can show that you’re a good culture fit—or a culture add—for the company. Also, it’s just a nice way to add in some of your personality. So tack on a bullet point listing out some of your interests, such as hiking, rowing, or crafting (no more than five to seven work-appropriate verbs), and you’re all set here.

7. Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)

You may have heard of a resume summary statement . They’re not super common, but they can be useful to include near the top of your resume if you’re looking to add clarity or context to your resume. If you’re a career changer, you might find a summary statement helpful in explaining your leap and tying your experience to your new path. Or if you’re a more experienced professional, you can use a summary statement to highlight a theme that brings your career trajectory together.

Overall, you probably won’t need a summary statement if your career is pretty linear and your bullet points do a great job of emphasizing what you have to offer in terms of skills and experience. But if you think it makes sense to include one, “Take the time to think about what the person reading your summary wants to know before you write it,” says McGovern. “Good summaries explain why you do what you do and how it can help. For instance: Merging a background in ABC, I help companies improve XYZ through 123. Summaries shouldn’t be any more complicated than that.”

So, taking McGovern’s example, you might say:

Merging a background in social media marketing and PR with seven years in the consumer tech space, I help companies improve their internal and external communication and brand awareness through data-driven, quality content and strategies that align with the modern trends of the space.

Yurovsky adds that “you don’t want your summary statement to be a dense paragraph with too much information. You want it to be easy to read, concise, and memorable. Almost like a tagline.”

Read More: 3 Resume Summary Examples That’ll Make Writing Your Own Easier

8. Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)

Once you have your resume written out—you’ve broken down your work experience, tagged on some activities and additional experiences, and listed out your skills—it’s important to go back to the job description (or multiple job descriptions, if you’re applying to several similar jobs) and make sure that what your resume says matches up with the kind of candidate the employers are looking for. In other words, tailor it .

Let’s explain further. You’ll want to begin by tackling the ATS . This means combing the job description to see if individual words and phrases line up. What skills are they asking for, and have you listed them (so long as you actually have them)? What words are they using to describe their ideal hire, and do you use similar language in your resume?

Next, take a bird’s-eye view. If you were the hiring manager for the role, where on your resume would your eyes be drawn to? And what would you be looking for? Whatever you think will be most important for the recruiter, make sure it’s near the top of your resume, or otherwise emphasized.

Finally, dig into the role and responsibilities of the job. Does your resume reflect similar experience? If not, is there a way you can spin it so that it’s clear you’re capable of doing the job (and doing it well)?

These articles can help you if the word “tailoring” makes you start to sweat:

• What It Really Means to “Tailor Your Resume”
• Your Guide to Making Unrelated Experience Look Relevant on Your Resume
• A Cool Trick: How to Spin 1 Resume Bullet 5 Different Ways

9. Edit and Refine It

Please, please don’t just write your resume and shoot it out without giving it a second glance. Hiring managers may not spend hours browsing it, but if there’s one thing that sticks out more than anything else it’s a glaring typo.

The best approach? Write a rough draft, then leave and come back to it later with fresh eyes to give it an edit.

Cover the basics: Is your contact information correct and updated? Are you using the right verb tenses? Does everything look consistent and accurate in terms of spelling and grammar?

Then do some cutting if your resume’s quite long. It’s no longer a hard-and-fast rule that all resumes must be only one page—but consider it a smart guideline for most applicants, especially if you've got less than 10 years work experience. The exception is if you’re very senior or very established in your career; in this scenario, a two-page resume isn’t completely out of the question. Everyone else, read this article for advice on how to cut your resume down.

Formatting-wise, it’s key to consider a couple things. First, what font are you using , and is it legible (for a human and a robot)? When in doubt, go with one of these simple, but sleek, options: Arial, Arial Narrow, Calibri, Cambria, Garamond, or Helvetica.

Second, are you going to save it as a Word document or PDF ? Neither option is wrong, although a PDF helps ensure that your formatting is maintained, no matter what type of computer the hiring manager uses to open the document.

Third, is your resume formatted in a way that it’s skimmable? If it’s feeling crowded or overrun with words, read this: 12 Tiny Changes That Make Your Resume Easy for Recruiters to Skim .

Once you’ve given it a few good looks, it may be worth sending it to a friend or colleague (or even a career coach ) to get a second opinion. Don’t just have them edit it for spelling and grammar—they should dig into your bullets and offer feedback on whether or not your resume is showing you in the best possible light (it’s smart to also send them the job description for something to compare it to).

Here’s the thing: Your resume won’t ever look exactly like someone else’s, nor should it. How you choose to format it, organize your information, and talk about specific experiences depends not just on your career path, but on your field, the job you’re applying for, the company that job is at, and more.

So there isn’t a universal way to do a resume. But there are common themes. To give you some context as to how yours might turn out, here are three examples of different kinds of resumes.

The Most Popular: A Reverse Chronological Resume

As previously mentioned, a reverse chronological resume is preferred by many coaches and HR experts, mainly because it’s super readable. When everything’s in a clear order, it’s easy to skim and even easier to draw lines between experiences.

Who it’s good for: Just about everyone—from students applying to internships all the way up to senior-level executives (with an optional resume summary statement)

Download an Example Chronological Resume for a Software Engineer

The Unorthodox Route: A Functional or Skills-Based Resume

Rather than listing out your experience in reverse chronological order, a functional or skills-based resume has bullet points that reflect how each of your skills is demonstrated by the work you’ve done over the course of your career. At the bottom, you’ll include everything else, such as your education, job history, professional achievements, community involvement, and other technical skills. This is a good option if you have a somewhat all-over-the-place work history and want to tie everything together neatly.

Who it’s good for: Career changers whose work experiences may not appear to be relevant and people with an abundance of temporary jobs or gaps in their work histories.

Download an Example Functional Resume for a Project Manager

The Creative Angle: An Infographic Resume or Resume Website

This resume type is characterized by how it’s formatted visually. You may choose a reverse chronological order or skills-based style to organize your information, but also use graphics, colors, unique fonts, and even multimedia elements to help that information pop. Keep in mind that any creative resume is still likely subject to an ATS—and certain elements may be unreadable by a robot. So consider going this route only if you know a human will be reading your resume (and that said human might enjoy it).

Who it’s good for: People applying to creative roles (designers, editors, writers, marketers, video producers, for example), startups, or fun companies, or to jobs where a creative resume is encouraged, if not required.

Download an Example Infographic Resume for a Designer

Not a designer but want your resume to look just as pretty as this example? Check out these articles:

• 5 Sites to Create an Awesome Infographic Resume (Even if You’re the Least Creative Person Ever)
• How to Build a Resume Website That Will Impress Every Hiring Manager Who Sees It
• 5 Digital Tools That Will Make Your Resume Infinitely More Beautiful

Your resume is a living, breathing document. So while you won’t go through this whole process every time you apply for a job, you should be thinking about all these things as you go to update your resume for your next career step. You might decide later on to switch up the order, or remove or add things, or even get creative and try out a whole new format. If you’re not getting the calls back you expect, you may decide to scrap it and start over —and that’s totally OK.

Regardless of where this piece of paper goes and how it grows, when you give it the care and attention it deserves, you set yourself up for success. And you’ll make it that much more likely that you’ll land an interview and get the chance to prove to the hiring manager—over the phone or in person—what you’ve got to offer.

How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide

For most job-seekers, a good resume is what stands between a dream job and Choice D. Get your resume right, and you’ll be getting replies from every other company you apply to.

If your resume game is weak, though, you’ll end up sitting around for weeks, maybe even months, before you even get a single response.

So you’re probably wondering how you can write a resume that gets you an interview straight up.

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about how to make a resume, including:

• The 8 Essential Steps to Writing a Resume
• 11+ Exclusive Resume Tips to Up Your Resume Game
• 27+ Real-Life Resume Examples for Different Professions

….and more!

So, let’s dive right in.

How to Make a Resume (The Right Way!)

Before we go into detail about how you should make a resume, here’s a summary of the most important steps and tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a resume format carefully. In 99% of cases, we recommend the reverse-chronological format .
• Add the right contact details. Leave your headshot out and make sure to include your job title , a professional email address, and any relevant links. (E.g.: your LinkedIn profile , online portfolio, personal website, etc.).
• Write an impactful resume summary. Unless you’re an entry-level professional, always go for a resume summary. If you do it right, it’s your chance to get the hiring manager to go through the rest of your resume in detail.
• Pay attention to your work experience section. Take your work experience section from OK-ish to exceptional by tailoring it to the job ad, making your achievements quantifiable, and using action verbs and power words.
• Add the right skills for the job. Keep this section relevant by only including the hard and soft skills that are required for the position.
• Keep your education short and to the point. Your most recent and highest degree is more than enough for a strong education section. You only need to add more details here if you’re a recent graduate with barely any work experience.
• Leverage optional resume sections. Optional sections like languages, hobbies, certifications, independent projects, and others can set you apart from other candidates with similar skills and experience.
• Include a cover letter. That’s right, cover letters matter in 2024, and the best way to supplement your resume is by adding an equally well-crafted cover letter to your job application. To make the most of it, check out our detailed guide on how to write a cover letter .

To get the most out of our tips, you can head over to the resume builder and start building your resume on the go as you read this guide.

New to resume-making? Give our ‘7 Resume Tips’ video a watch before diving into the article!

#1. Pick the Right Resume Format

Before you start filling in the contents of your resume, you have to make sure it’s going to look good. 

After all, the first thing hiring managers notice is what your resume looks like, and then they start reading it. So, this is your best chance to make a great first impression.

Start by choosing the right resume format.

There are three types of resume formats out there:

• Reverse-chronological. This is by far the most popular resume format worldwide and, as such, it’s the best format for most job-seekers.
• Functional. This resume format focuses more on skills than work experience. It’s a good choice if you’re just getting started with your career and have little to no experience in the field.
• Combination. The combination resume format is a great choice for experienced job-seekers with a very diverse skill set. It’s useful if you’re applying for a role that requires expertise in several different fields and you want to show all that in your resume.

So, which one should you go for?

In 99% of cases, you want to stick to the reverse-chronological resume format . It’s the most popular format and what hiring managers expect to see. So, in the rest of this guide, we’re going to focus on teaching you how to make a reverse-chronological resume.

Fix Your Resume’s Layout

With formatting out of the way, let’s talk about your resume’s layout , which determines the overall look of your resume. 

Does it look organized or cluttered? Is it too short or too long? Is it boring and easy to ignore, or is it reader-friendly and attention-grabbing?

Here are some of the best practices you should apply:

• Stick to one page. You should only go for a two-page resume if you have decades of experience and you’re sure the extra space will add significant value. Hiring managers in big companies get hundreds of applications per job opening. They’re not going to spend their valuable time reading your life story!
• Add clear section headings. Pick a heading and use it for all the section headers so the hiring manager can easily navigate through your resume.
• Adjust the margins. Without the right amount of white space, your resume will end up looking overcrowded with information. Set your margins to one inch on all sides so your text fits just right on the page.
• Choose a professional font. We’d recommend sticking to a font that’s professional but not overused. For example, Ubuntu, Roboto, or Overpass. Avoid Times New Roman, and never use Comic Sans.
• Set the correct font size. As a rule of thumb, go for 11-12 pt for normal text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
• Use a PDF file. Always save your resume as a PDF file, unless the employer specifically requests otherwise. Word files are popular, but there’s a good chance they’ll mess up your resume’s formatting.

Another thing you need to consider in terms of your resume’s layout is whether you’re going for a traditional-looking resume template or something a bit more modern :

If you’re pursuing a career in a more traditional industry, like law , banking , or finance , you might want to stick to the first.

But if you’re applying to a tech company where imagination and innovation are valued, you can pick a more creative resume template .

Want to Save Time? Use a (Free) Resume Template

Anyone who’s ever tried creating a resume from scratch knows how boring the formatting can be.

Before you can even start filling in the contents, you need to tweak the margins, adjust font sizes, and make sure everything fits into one page while still looking good.

What if you could skip past all that and still create a compelling resume?

Try one of our free resume templates . They’re pre-formatted, so all you have to do is fill in the contents.

They’re also created in collaboration with recruiters from around the globe, ensuring that the templates are visually appealing and ATS-friendly!

See for yourself how one of our templates compares to a resume created in a standard text editor:

#2. Add Your Contact Information

Now that we’ve got all the formatting out of the way, let’s get into what your resume is all about— the information you put on it .

The first thing you want to do when filling out the contents of your resume is to add your contact information .

This section is pretty straightforward but crucial. Your contact details belong at the top of your resume in a designated resume header , so the hiring manager can easily find them.

Even if everything else about your resume is perfect, that all flops if you misspell your email address or have a typo in your phone number. If the hiring manager can’t contact you, it’s a missed opportunity.

So, double-check, and even triple-check your contact information section and make sure everything is factually correct and up-to-date.

Must-Have Information

• Full name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top of your resume.
• Email address. Stick to an address that’s professional and easy to spell, like a combination of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected])
• Phone number. Add a reliable number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country. If you plan to relocate for the job or want a remote position, specify it on your resume.

Optional Information

• Job title. Add your professional title underneath. Write it down word for word, whether it’s “Digital Marketing Specialist” or “Junior Data Scientist.” Just don’t make up job titles like “Marketing Wizzard” or “Data Manipulator.” They’re not quirky; they’re just unprofessional. 
• LinkedIn profile . We recommend that you include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile since over 77% of hiring managers use the platform when evaluating a candidate. 
• Relevant links. Include links to personal websites or any social media profiles that are relevant to your field. For example, a developer could include a Github profile, while a graphic designer could link their Behance or Driblle account, and so on.
• Date of birth. Unless this is specifically required in the job ad, the hiring manager doesn’t need to know how old you are. It’s not important for their decision-making, and at worst, it might lead to age-based discrimination.
• Unprofessional email address. Your quirky, old high school email address doesn’t belong on your resume. Instead of [email protected] , go for a [email protected] type of address.
• Headshot. (USA, UK or Ireland) Depending on the country where you’re applying, it might even be illegal to include a picture of yourself on your resume . While it’s the norm to include a picture in most of Europe and Asia, always check the regulations for each specific country or industry you’re applying to.

All clear? Good! Now, let’s look at what a great example of a resume's contact information section looks like:

#3. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)

It's no secret that recruiters spend an average of less than seven seconds on a resume .

When you receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications daily, it's physically impossible to spend too much time on each.

So, what the hiring managers do to go through resumes more effectively is to skim through each resume and read it in depth only if it piques their interest.

This is where the resume headline comes in.

Placed right next to (or underneath) your contact information, this brief paragraph is the first thing the hiring manager is going to read on your resume.

Now, depending on how far along in your career you are, your resume headline can be either a resume summary or a resume objective.

So, how do you choose between a resume summary and a resume objective? Here’s all you need to know:

Resume Summary

A resume summary, as the name suggests, is a two to three-sentence summary of your career so far. If done right, it shows that you’re a qualified candidate at a glance and gets the hiring manager to give you a chance.

Here’s what your resume summary should include:

• Your job title and years of experience.
• A couple of your greatest professional achievements or core responsibilities.
• Your most relevant skills for the job.

Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary: 

Experienced Java Developer with 5 years of experience in building scalable and efficient applications. Contributed to a major project that enhanced application performance by 25%. Strong background in Spring Framework and microservices. Aiming to apply robust coding skills to develop innovative software solutions at XYZ Tech Solutions.

Unless you’re a recent graduate or amid a career change, we recommend you stick to a resume summary. Otherwise, a resume objective might be a better option for you.

Resume Objective

A resume objective is supposed to express your professional goals and aspirations, academic background, and any relevant skills you may have for the job.

It communicates your motivation for getting into a new field, so it’s the go-to headline for recent graduates and those going through a career change. As with a resume summary, a resume objective should be brief—around two to four sentences long.

So, here’s what it would look like if you’re a student:

Hard-working recent graduate with a B.A. in Graphic Design from New York State University seeking new opportunities. 3+ years of practical experience working with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, creating illustrations and UX/UI design projects. Looking to grow as a designer and perfect my art at XYZ Design Studio.

Or, on the other hand, if you’re going through a career change, it might look more like this:

IT project manager with 5+ years of experience in software development. Managed a team of developers to create products for several industries, such as FinTech and HR tech. Looking to leverage my experience in managing outsourced products as a Product Owner at Company XYZ.

#4. Prioritize Your Work Experience

The most important part of your resume is your work experience.

This is where you get to sell yourself and show off your previous accomplishments and responsibilities.

If you manage to master this section, you’ll know most of what’s there to know about how to make a resume.

There are plenty of good practices for writing your work experience . But before we dive into all the nits and grits, let's start with the basics.

The standard format for each work experience entry is as follows:

• Job title/position. Your job title goes on top of each work experience entry. When the hiring manager looks at your resume, you want them to know, at a glance, that you have relevant work experience for the job.
• Company name/location/description. Mention the name of the employer and the general location, such as the city and state/country where you worked. In some cases, you may also want to briefly describe the company, like when the organization isn’t particularly well-known.
• Dates employed. Add the approximate timeframe of your employment at each company. You don’t need to give exact dates since the standard format for this is mm/yyyy.
• Achievements and responsibilities. This is the core of each work experience entry. Depending on your field, you want to list either your achievements or responsibilities. List them in bullet points instead of paragraphs, so they’ll be easier to read.

Here’s a real-life example:

Your work experience entries should always be listed in reverse chronological order , starting with your most recent job and working your way back into the past.

Now that you know how to list your experience, we’re going to show you how to write about it in a way that makes you stand out from the competition, starting with: 

Are you a student with no work experience? We’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to writing a resume with no experience here.

Focus on Achievements Whenever Possible

One of the most common resume mistakes is only listing responsibilities in your work experience section.

Here’s the thing—in most cases, the hiring manager knows exactly what your job responsibilities are.

For example, if you’re a sales manager, your responsibilities would be:

• Reach out to potential clients over the phone or email.
• Maintain relationships with existing company clients and upsell relevant products.
• Tracking and reporting on leads in CRM.

Coincidentally, this is also the same list of responsibilities for every sales manager out there. So, 90% of all other resumes probably mention the same thing.

To stand out from the competition, you want to focus on writing achievements in your resume instead. These can be how you helped your previous company grow, reach quarterly quotas, and so on.

Let’s compare how responsibilities hold up next to achievements for the same job:

• Exceeded sales team KPIs by 30%+ for 3 months straight.
• Generated over $24,000 in sales in 1 month.
• Generated leads through cold-calling
• Managed existing company clients

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there just aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you’re a warehouse worker .

Your day-to-day responsibilities probably include:

• Loading, unloading, and setting up equipment daily.
• Packaging finished products and getting them ready for shipping.
• Assisting in opening and closing the warehouse.

In fields like this, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself through achievements, so it’s okay to stick to responsibilities instead. You can still make them shine by following the rest of our advice about listing your work experience.

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you work in a warehouse. Your day-to-day responsibilities probably involve:

• Loading, unloading and setting up equipment on a daily basis.
• Package finished product and get it ready for shipping.
• Assist in opening and closing the warehouse.

In such fields, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself, so it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities instead.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Tailoring is what sets an amazing resume apart from an okay one.

Hiring managers don’t need to know about every single job you’ve ever worked at or every single skill that you have.

They only want to know about your jobs, experiences, or skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a job doing Google Ads, you don’t need to talk about your SEO internship from eight years ago.

By focusing your resume on whatever is important for the specific role, you’re a lot more likely to stand out and catch the hiring manager’s attention.

Let’s take a look at an example of a job ad:

As you can see, we’ve highlighted the most important requirements.

To tailor your resume accordingly, you just need to mention how you meet each of these requirements in your resume.

You can highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications in different parts of your resume, such as:

• In your resume summary, where you should recap your years of experience.
• Throughout your work experience section, where you should list achievements and responsibilities that reflect your social media marketing experience.
• In your education section, where you can let the hiring manager know you have the degree that they’re looking for.

Include the Right Amount of Work Experience

If you’ve got over a decade’s worth of work experience, you’re probably wondering whether all of it belongs on your resume. In most cases, you’d end up writing a novel if you listed everything you’ve ever done, and that’s not how long a resume should be .

If you’re new to the job market, on the other hand, you probably don’t have any experience, and you’re wondering what you could even add to this section.

So, here’s how much information your resume should include, depending on your level of experience:

• No experience. If you’re looking for your first job , you won’t have any work experience to fill this section with. So, you can either keep it empty and focus on all the other sections or fill it up with any experience gained in student organizations, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and other projects.
• Entry-level. List all your work experience so far. While some of it won’t be relevant, it can still show the hiring manager that you do have some actual work experience.
• Mid-level. Only mention relevant work experience to the position you’re applying for. There’s no need to waste space on jobs that aren’t related to what you’re after.
• Senior-level. List up to 15 years of relevant work experience, tops. If your most recent experience is as a marketing executive , the hiring manager doesn’t care how you started your career as a junior marketing specialist 23 years ago.

Consider Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

Did you know that over 70% of resumes don’t even make it to the hiring manager ?

Most companies these days use ATS to evaluate hundreds of resumes instantaneously and automatically filter out the ones that don’t meet their criteria.

For example, if a resume doesn’t mention a specific skill or isn’t formatted correctly, the ATS will automatically reject it.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make an ATS-friendly resume .

Here are a couple of tips to help you get past those pesky robots:

• Stick to one page. Sometimes employers set a limit on how long a resume should be. This means that if your resume is longer than one page, it might get automatically disqualified.
• Incorporate keywords. Tailoring your resume to the job helps a ton with beating the ATS. Just carefully read the job description to find hints for what the ATS will be looking for. Then, whenever you find keywords related to your responsibilities and achievements, make sure to include them in your work experience section.
• Use an active voice. Passive voice is too vague and unclear, so make sure to use active voice as much as possible when describing your previous jobs. (E.g.: “Managed a team of ten people,” instead of “ A team of ten people was managed by me.” )
• Leverage powerful action words. Instead of starting each of your sentences with “was responsible for," make your work experience impactful by using words that can grab attention. Saying that you “spearheaded” or “facilitated” something sounds a lot more impressive than “helped.”

Want to make sure your resume formatting passes the ATS test? Choose one of our tried and tested ATS-friendly resume templates , and you’ll be good to go! 

#5. List Your Education

The next section on your resume is dedicated to your academic qualifications. Let’s start with the basics!

Here’s how you should format the education section on your resume :

• Program Name. Your major and degree type should be listed. (E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration” )
• University Name. Add the name of the institution. (E.g.: “New York State University” )
• Dates Attended. Use a mm/yyyy format for the dates you attended. (E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012” )
• Location. If your university is less well-known, you can also add the location. (E.g.: “Stockholm, Sweden” )
• GPA. Use the appropriate grading system for the country you’re applying to work in. (E.g.: In the USA, it would be “3.9 GPA” )
• Honors. Add any honors and distinctions you’ve been given. (E.g.: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude )
• Achievements. You can mention interesting papers you’ve written, projects you’ve done, or relevant coursework you’ve excelled in.
• Minor. “Minor in Psychology”

Pretty simple, right? Now let’s see what an education section looks like in practice:

This example includes all the necessary information, plus an eye-catching award and relevant classes this candidate has taken.

Resume Education Tips

Now that you know how to list your education on your resume, let’s take this section to the next level.

Just follow these expert tips:

• If you’re making a resume as a student and don’t have any work experience yet, you can list your education section at the beginning of the page instead of work experience.
• You can add your expected graduation date if you’re still pursuing your degree.
• If you already have relevant work experience, just keep this section short and sweet. Recent graduates can expand on their education more and add optional information like projects, classes, academic achievements, etc.
• Always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest degree on top. Your highest and most recent degree is usually enough, so if you have a Master’s degree that’s relevant to the job, there’s no need to mention your earlier degrees.
• Don’t add your high school degree to your resume if you already have a university degree. It doesn’t have as much weight, and you can use the space for something else.
• Only mention your GPA if you had an impressive academic career. Anything below a 3.5 GPA doesn’t need to be on your resume.

Are you in the process of applying for college? Check out our guide to writing a college application resume to wow that admissions officer!

#6. Emphasize Your Know-How in the Skills Section

After your work experience, your skills are the first thing the hiring manager is going to look for. In fact, together, work experience and skills make up 90% of the hiring decision .

So, this is the place where you want to mention all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job.

There are two types of skills you can include when writing your resume:

• Hard Skills. These are measurable abilities. What you can list here can be anything from coding in Python to knowing how to cook Thai cuisine.
• Soft Skills. Also known as personal skills, these are a mix of communication skills , personal traits, career attributes, and more. They can include leadership, critical thinking, and time management , just to name a few.

Your resume should always cover both hard skills and soft skills . Here’s an example in action:

Now, let’s discuss how you should list your most important skills on your resume.

There are a few essential steps you need to follow:

Always List Hard and Soft Skills Separately

Your resume should be easy and neat to navigate. The hiring manager shouldn’t have to waste time looking for a specific skill because you didn’t separate it into the appropriate subsection.

So, just create separate categories for your hard and soft skills.

Depending on your field, you could customize the name of your “hard skills” subsection to something like “technical skills," “marketing skills," or something else related to your field.

Let’s look at an example of what skills look like on a project manager’s resume :

Methodologies & Tools

• Agile Methodology
• SCRUM Framework
• Waterfall Project Management
• Microsoft Project
• Critical Path Method (CPM)
• Earned Value Management (EVM)
• Risk Management

Soft Skills

• Team Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Negotiation

Tailor Your Skills to the Job

You might have some awesome skills, but the hiring manager only needs to know about the ones that are relevant to the job.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as an accountant, your gourmet chef skills shouldn’t be on your resume.

Look at the job ad and list at least two to three essential skills you have that are required for the role. Remember—there’s no need to list every skill you have here; just keep it relevant.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Graphic Design or a related field.
• Tech-savvy, with some background in CMS systems such as WordPress.
• Thrives in a stressful environment and juggles multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Self-reliant, with the ability to manage their own work.
• A can-do attitude and an outside-the-box thinker.
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages.
• Basic understanding of Office software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

So, the must-have hard skills here are Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages. Other good computer skills to have are WordPress or similar CMS systems.

While you can also mention Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, it’s pretty much assumed that you know how to use them since they’re required for most office jobs.

List Hard Skills with Experience Levels

For each hard skill you list on your resume, you should also mention your proficiency level. This tells employers what they can expect from you and how much training you might need.

• Beginner. You have some experience with the skill, whether it’s from some entry-level practice or classroom education.
• Intermediate. You’ve used the skill in a work environment with good understanding.
• Advanced. You’re the go-to person for this skill in your office. You can coach other employees, and you understand the skill at a high level.
• Expert. You’ve applied this skill to more than a handful of different projects and organizations. You’re the go-to person for advice about the skill, not just in your office but even amongst some of the best professionals in your field.

Just make sure to never lie about your actual skill level. Even if you get the job, once you need those skills you exaggerated, it will be pretty awkward for both you and your employer.

Include Transferable Skills

These are the types of skills that are useful for almost any job out there.

Transferable skills can be both soft skills (e.g.: teamwork, creativity, problem-solving skills, and others) and hard skills (MS Office Suite, HTML, writing, etc.)

Whatever job you’re applying to, chances are you have transferable skills from your experience that can come in handy one way or another. So, feel free to include them, even if they’re not specifically required for the position.

Not sure which skills to mention on your resume for your specific field? Check out our list of 101+ essential skills for inspiration!

#7. Leverage Optional Resume Sections

The sections we’ve covered so far are must-haves for any resume. They’re the bread-and-butter for any job application, and if you get them right, you’ll land any job you apply to.

But if you have some leftover space, there are a few optional sections you can choose from to give your resume a boost!

Are you bi-lingual? Or even better  – multi-lingual? You should always mention that on your resume!

Even if the position doesn’t require you to know a specific language, it can still come in handy at some point. At the end of the day, it’s always better to know more languages than less.

To list languages in your resume , just write them down and assign them the appropriate level:

• Intermediate

You can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.

As a given, you should never lie about your language skills. You never know—your interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language or even be a native speaker!

Hobbies and Interests

If you want to spice up your resume, hobbies and interests could be just what you need.

While this section isn’t a game-changer, it can help the hiring manager see who you are as an individual.

For example, if you listed “teamwork” as one of your skills, hobbies like team sports can back up your claim.

And who knows? Maybe you and your interviewer have some hobbies or interests in common!

Volunteering Experience

If you’re the type of person who devotes their free time to helping others while expecting nothing in return, chances are that you’re the type of employee who’s in it for more than just the money. 

Seeing volunteer experience on your resume tells hiring managers that you’re a loyal employee who’s after something meaningful.

Several studies show that listing your volunteer experience can boost your chances of getting hired, especially if you have little to no work experience.

Certifications

Hiring managers love candidates who invest in themselves, and that’s exactly what they see when you list certifications on your resume .

If you value continuous learning and strive to expand your skill set, that’s always a plus.

Certifications can also show employers how much expertise you have.

For example, if you’re a Microsoft Cloud Engineer and you specialize in Microsoft Technologies, you should definitely include all essential certifications on your resume, such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert one.

Awards and Recognitions

There’s no harm in showing off a little on your resume. After all, you want to be a candidate that shines above the rest.

So, if you’ve received any awards or recognitions that make you stand out in your field, make sure to add them.

For example, if you’ve been recognized for your contributions to data science or received a hard-to-come-by scholarship , mention it in your resume. Just keep your entries here relevant to the field you’re applying to.

Publications

Whether you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic, publications are always impressive.

If you have any published works (online or in an academic journal), you can add them to your resume. Just make sure to include a link so the hiring manager knows where to check your work!

Are you looking for a career in academia? Check out our guide to writing the perfect academic CV to get started!

Working on side projects can show off your passion for your field. Whether they’re university class projects or part-time entrepreneurial endeavors, they’re relevant.

For example, if you worked on a mock software product as part of a university competition, it shows you went through every step of product creation, from ideation to creating a marketing strategy.

This project also shows off your organizational skills , and if you mention it in your resume, you stand a better chance of landing the job you had your sights set on.

But projects can also be personal, not academic. For example, you might manage an Etsy store where you sell hand-made arts and crafts to customers online. This is a great opportunity to highlight your creativity, management, and customer service skills .

Overall, hiring managers love employees who do cool work in their free time, so projects are always a great section to add to your resume.

Looking to kickstart your career? Check out our guide on how to get an internship for useful tips and real-life examples!

Extracurricular Activities

Every college freshman knows that extracurricular experience can make a difference in their application.

Especially if you don’t have a lot of experience outside of school, extracurricular activities are a great way to show potential employers your skills and give them insight into you as a person. Different clubs and after-school projects can help you gain real-life skills and considerably increase your chances of landing your first job after college.

For example, joining a student government organization can hone your leadership skills and teach you how to work as part of a team.

For example, if you’re part of a student government or public speaking club, these activities can help you hone your leadership and presentation skills.

11+ Expert Resume Tips

You’ve got the gist of how to make a resume. Now, it’s time to make it really stand out from the crowd!

Follow these exclusive resume tips to take your resume game to the next level:

• Match the professional title underneath your name to the job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Mention any promotions from your previous jobs. Use the work experience entries for them to focus on the achievements that helped you earn them.
• Describe your achievements using Laszlo Bock’s formula : accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z . This way, your work experience can go the extra mile and show the hiring manager what you can bring to the table.
• Always list your achievements and responsibilities in concise bullet points. This makes your resume more reader-friendly, and it’s more likely that the hiring manager will see your impressive achievements at a glance.
• Don’t use personal pronouns like “I” or “me,” and don’t refer to yourself by name. Stick to a slightly altered third person, like “managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.” instead of “he managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.”
• Name your resume sections correctly, or it might get rejected by the ATS. Swapping out quirky names like “career history” or “expertise” for “work experience” and "skills" makes it easier for the hiring manager to find what they’re looking for, too.
• Prioritize important keywords instead of adding all of them. Make sure the relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences you add all make sense in context, too. Your goal is to get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.
• Focus on transferable skills if you don’t have a lot of relevant work experience. Any extracurricular activities or personal projects can help you stand out here.
• Add a strategic pop of color to headings, bullet points, or key elements you want to highlight. It can help your resume stand out, but don’t overdo it—you want the information to be more impressive than the color palette.
• Don’t include the line “references available upon request.” Hiring managers already know they can request a list of references from you, so there’s no need to waste valuable space on it.
• Make sure your resume is optimized for mobile viewing. Most hiring managers use their mobile phones as often as desktop computers, so save your resume to a PDF file and make sure your formatting stays intact across any device.
• Rename the resume file you plan to send so it includes your name and the name of the position you’re applying for. It’s a small detail that can turn into a crucial mistake if you forget it.
• Read your resume out loud when you’re done. This is a great way to catch awkward phrases or spelling mistakes you might have missed otherwise.
• Use a tool like DocSend to track your resume. You’ll get a notification any time someone opens your resume, and you can see how long they spend reading it.

FREE Resume Checklist

Are you already done with your resume? Let’s see how it holds up!

Go through our checklist for perfecting your resume and see where you stand!

If you missed some points, just go through your resume one more time and perfect it.

And if you ☑’d everything—congrats! You’ve learned all there is to know about writing a resume, and you’re good to go with your job search.

Need to write a CV instead of a resume? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a CV with dozens of examples!

9 Resume Templates for Different Industries

Looking to create an effective resume without dealing with the formatting hassle? Just choose one of the templates below.

#1. Traditional Resume Template

Good for traditional industries like finance, banking, law, and manufacturing.

#2. Modern Resume Template

Good for both contemporary and forward-looking industries, including entrepreneurship, medical technology, and engineering.

#3. Creative Resume Template

Good for creative industries, including entertainment, design, and architecture. 

#4. Minimalistic Resume Template

Good for experienced professionals in basically any industry who want to let their achievements do the talking. 

#5. IT Resume Template

Good for any IT-related profession like software development, cyber security, and DevOps engineering.

#6. Tech Resume Template

Good for the tech industry and everything it encompasses.

#7. College Resume Template

Good for college students and recent graduates alike.

#8. General Resume Template

Good for multiple industries, including HR, education, and customer service.

#9. Executive Resume Template

Good for senior professionals across different industries, including hospitality, marketing, and logistics.

17+ Resumes for Different Jobs

Knowing how to write a resume is one thing, but making a resume that stands out is something entirely different. Without inspiration, even top career experts might stumble on a roadblock or two.

Check out the following effective resume examples for specific jobs to get a better sense of what a good resume looks like:

#1. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a nurse resume here.

#2. Data Scientist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a data scientist resume here.

#3. Business Analyst Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business analyst resume here.

#4. Digital Marketing Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a digital marketing resume here.

#5. Software Engineer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a software engineer resume here.

#6. Construction Project Manager Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a construction project manager resume here.

#7. Customer Service Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a customer service resume here.

#8. High School Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a high school resume here.

#9. Student Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a student resume here.

#10. Server Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a server resume here.

#11. Actor Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an actor resume here.

#12. Web Developer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a web developer resume here.

#13. Engineering Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineering resume here.

#14. Computer Science Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a computer science resume here.

#15. Architect Resume Example 

Check out our full guide to writing a data analyst resume here.

#17. Remote Job Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a remote job resume here.

#18. Sales Associate Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales associate resume here.

#19. Receptionist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist resume here.

Want to see more examples? Check out our compilation of 80+ resume examples for different fields .

• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Bartender Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Graphic Designer Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Supervisor Resume

Next Steps After Your Resume

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about how to make a resume, it’s time to talk about the rest of your job application.

After all, your resume is only the first step in your job search. To land the job you deserve, you also need to write a captivating cover letter and ace that upcoming interview. Here’s how:

#1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter

The companion piece to every resume is the cover letter.

Most job-seekers flinch when they hear that they have to write a cover letter. What do you even mention in a cover letter, anyway? If you were good at writing cover letters, you’d be applying for a job as a writer !

In reality, though, writing a cover letter is very simple once you know its purpose.

Think of your cover letter as a direct message to the hiring manager. It’s your chance to briefly explain why you’re such an awesome fit for the position. And with a few cover letter tips to point you in the right direction, you’ll write the perfect cover letter for your job application.

Just follow this structure:

• Add the contact details. Include the same contact information as on your resume, plus additional contact details for the hiring manager, including their name, job title, the company’s name, and location.
• Introduce yourself. Start your cover letter by mentioning who you are, what your work experience is, and why you’re interested in the position. Mention a standout achievement or two, relevant skills, and what you’d like to do for the company you’re applying for.
• Explain why you’d excel at the job. Find the requirements in the job ad that you meet, and elaborate on how you fulfill the most important ones. Research the company so you know what you like about it, and mention it in your cover letter. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the job and confidence that you’ll be a great fit for their team.
• Wrap it up politely. Conclude your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and thanking the hiring manager for their time. Then add a call to action, such as “Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application in greater detail.” Then, add a closing line and follow it with your full name.

Sounds easy, right? Here’s a real-life example to drive the point home:

Do you need more help perfecting your cover letter? Learn what the most common cover letter mistakes are and check out cover letter examples for all professions here.

#2. How to Ace Your Next Interview

Once you’ve perfected both your resume and cover letter, there’s only one thing left.

It’s time for the final step—the dreaded job interview.

Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, you probably hate the interviewing process. No matter how experienced you are, it can be nerve-wracking. Sitting there while someone’s prodding into your past experiences and judging you isn’t fun.

But did you know that most interviewers ask the same questions?

That’s right—all you have to do is learn how to answer some of the most common interview questions, and you’ll be an interview away from landing your dream job!

Just check out our complete guide to the 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers and learn how to ace your next interview.

FAQs on How to Make a Resume

Do you still have some questions about making a resume? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!

#1. What does a good resume look like in 2024?

For your resume to look good in 2024, make sure it’s organized and clean and isn’t longer than one page.

Be sure to include information that adds value to your application—leave out the focus on your relevant work experience and skills that you can back up, and list as many achievements as possible. 

If you’re using a resume template, choose one based on your industry. Conservative industries like law, banking, and business require more traditional resume templates. But if you’re going for an industry like design, architecture, or marketing, you can go for a creative resume template . 

Remote work is also big in 2024, so if that’s what you’re after, tailor your resume to match the job you want.

#2. How do you make a resume in Word?

The best way to create a resume in Word is to use a pre-designed Microsoft Word template. To access them, you should: 

• Open MS Word
• Click “file” from the menu bar 
• Select “new”
• Type “resume templates” in the search bar 

That said, Word resume templates are generic, hard to personalize, and overall not very stylish.

Want a resume that looks good and is extremely easy to make? Check out resume templates to get started!

#3. How do I write a resume for my first job?

If you’re writing your first-ever resume for an entry-level position, the hiring manager won’t expect you to have any work experience.

However, you can make up for your lack of experience with your skills and academic achievements.

For example, you can take advantage of extracurricular activities, internships, volunteering experiences, and other non-professional experiences. You can use them to highlight the skills you’ve gained and what you’ve achieved so far.

So, your first job resume should have a resume objective, emphasize your education, and replace your work experience with any internships, volunteering, independent projects, or other experiences.

#4. How to make a resume on Google Docs?

You can make a resume on Google Docs by choosing one of their templates and filling it in on the go.

All you have to do is go to your Google Drive’s template gallery, choose your preferred template, fill in your information, and your Google Docs resume is ready to go! 

That said, Google Docs templates aren’t the most user-friendly choice. You don’t have much flexibility with the layout and formatting isn’t that easy. For example, you tweak a section to the slightest, and the whole resume becomes a mess.

If you want an easier option, check out our resume builder !

#5. What kind of resume do employers prefer?

Typically, employers prefer one-page-long resumes that follow the reverse chronological format. 

Hiring managers receive hundreds of resumes every day, so they don't have the time to read three-page resumes. Try one of our one-page resume templates so you don’t go over the recommended resume length.

Meanwhile, the reverse-chronological format is the most popular because it draws attention to your most recent jobs and professional achievements, which is the #1 most important thing hiring managers look at when evaluating a resume.

#6. How many jobs should you put on your resume? 

You should only include relevant job positions on your resume.

This means that your work experience section should be tailored to the job you are applying for. If you’ve worked five different jobs and they can all add value to your current application, then you should include all five. 

If, on the other hand, you’re applying for, say, a customer service position and some of your past jobs don’t have anything to do with customer service, you should skip them.

#7. Should I put my address on my resume? 

You can put your location (city, state, or country) on your resume, but you don’t need to put your entire physical address.

Putting a physical address on a resume was the norm back when companies would contact you via mail. In today’s world, everyone communicates via email, which is why adding a correct and professional email address to your contact information section is far more important than putting your physical address. 

So, just include your location or-–if you’re a remote worker—specify you prefer to work remotely by writing “working remotely from [location].”

#8. What information should I leave out of my resume?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t include your birthday or your headshot on your resume. This norm varies from country to country but it applies to the USA, Canada, and UK.

If you have plenty of achievements to list under your work experience, then you can leave your basic work responsibilities out of your resume. 

In your education section, you should only include your highest and most recent degree. So, if you hold a Ph.D., you can list that and your Master’s degree and leave your Bachelor’s degree and high school diploma out.

Finally, leave out any skills that aren’t relevant to the job you’re applying for.

#9. Is a resume a CV?

Depending on where you are, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a resume might be completely different things.

In most of the world, though, including Europe and Asia, they are used interchangeably for the same document. Both CVs and resumes are one to two pages long, and list skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Sometimes more detailed resumes that go over one page are referred to as CVs. These are typically only used by senior professionals, executives, CEOs, etc.

In the USA, however, a CV is a completely different document. Typically, CVs are detailed and comprehensive documents that highlight your entire academic and professional history. They’re often used for academic, scientific, or research positions, which is why this type of CV can also be referred to as an academic CV.

You can create your CV using one of our CV templates !

#10. Should I write my own resume?

Yes, you should always write your own resume.

Your resume is your opportunity to show the hiring manager your communication, writing, and presentation skills . Employers also evaluate you based on how effectively you can convey information about yourself, and there’s no one that can represent you better than yourself.

Writing your own resume lets you introduce yourself authentically. You have the best understanding of your skills and experiences, and you can personalize them to make your resume stand out.

And, as a bonus, the experience of writing your resume yourself can be reflective and insightful, so it might help you understand your professional journey and career goals better.

#11. Can a resume be two pages?

Generally, we strongly recommend that your resume stick to one page.

Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, and keeping your resume to one page increases the odds that they’ll see your qualifications faster.

In some cases, like when you have a lot of relevant experience, your resume can go over two pages. But this exception is reserved for senior professionals with over a decade of relevant experience and tons of skills and achievements that simply can’t fit on one page.

#12. Is a simple resume okay?

Absolutely, a simple resume is often more than okay—it's preferable.

Before your resume even gets to the hiring manager, a complicated layout could get it rejected by the applicant tracking system (ATS). A simple resume template can help get your application straight to the hiring manager.

A clean layout can also make sure that your resume is easily readable and looks professional. This can focus the hiring manager's attention on your work experience and skills without excessive clutter or flashy colors to distract them.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

If you’ve followed all of our advice until now, congrats! You’re probably an expert on how to make a resume.

To recap, let’s go through some of the most important lessons we’ve learned so far...

• Use the right resume builder to make the process as smooth as possible. You don’t want to mess around with formatting for hours before even starting to work on your resume!
• Focus on your achievements over responsibilities. This can help you stand out from all the other applicants, especially if you back your claims up with data.
• Include all the must-have sections, like the resume summary, work experience, education, and skills. Then leverage optional sections if you have leftover space.
• Tailor your resume for the job you’re applying for. Everything listed on your resume should be relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, and you should write a new resume for every new job application.
• Take the time to perfect your cover letter. It’s just as important as your resume, so make sure you pay as much attention to it!

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• How to Make a Resume:...

How to Make a Resume: Beginner's Writing Guide with Examples

30 min read · Updated on August 06, 2024

Your dream job is one resume away!

Your resume is arguably the most important financial document you'll ever own. And before you think, “Yeah – right” let's consider for a moment. Without a resume, you don't get the job, so you can't pay bills, support a family, go to the big game, have that weekend trip, or plan for retirement. Your resume is the doorway to your future, so let's make sure it's perfect.

Part of making it perfect is remembering that it's a targeted career marketing document – not a chronicle of your life. So, how do you write a resume? In this beginner's writing guide, we'll show you how to make a resume and provide examples of what each section should look like. 

Grab a cup of coffee and strap in, because you're about to learn everything you need to know about how to make a new resume!

Table of contents:

The purpose of a resume

Avoid rejection by the ATS

What is your career target?

Build your personal brand, what should your resume look like, how to make a resume – the layout.

How long does it take to put together a resume?

A major resume no-no: typos

How to make your resume more professional

Theory in practice – resume examples

The most basic purpose of a resume is to sell your skills , achievements , and qualifications to prospective employers. This one document can financially make or break you. Let's take a quick look at what being unemployed costs you per day (assuming a five-day workweek):

If you make $40,000 per year, you lose about $155 every day that you're out of work

If you make $50,000 per year, you lose about $190 every day that you're out of work

If you make $75,000 per year, you lose about $288 every day that you're out of work

If you make $100,000 per year, you lose about $385 every day that you're out of work

Clearly, finding out how to make a resume for a job is critical so that you can properly sell your skills, qualifications, experiences, and achievements to prospective employers. 

The job market is tough and highly competitive; you have to stand out in a sea of qualified candidates by creating a compelling narrative that tells a story of value, keeping in mind that your resume is supposed to do a few things for you:

Introduce you to a new company

Underscore how your experiences and education are relevant

Showcase how your skills and competencies will benefit the new company's team

Win interviews

Avoid rejection by the ATS 

What do you know about applicant tracking systems? Job seeking can be compared to throwing your resume into a black hole. You can go through 100 listings on any job search website and complete the online application with zero results. 

Ever had that happen? It's okay, it happens to everyone at some point or another! 

The problem is that you're probably not putting the correct keywords into your resume. When you hit “Submit” on an online application, it isn't magically emailed to the hiring manager. 

Oh, no! 

It goes through a computer system that scans your resume for specific keywords that can be found in the job description posted by the company. And, just so you know, approximately 90% of companies use ATS scans , including everything from mom-and-pop shops to Fortune 500 companies. 

The companies use these programs because they just don't have time for a human to go through all the resumes they receive. Depending on the job opening, a company can get between  250 and 500 applicants . Can you imagine being the person who has to sift through all those resumes? 

Here is where the ATS steps in. It's designed to weed through candidates to narrow the applicant pool, so that the human hiring manager has a more reasonable resume load to go through. It ranks the remaining candidates in order based on how much of a match they are for the position that's open. 

Being overlooked by the ATS is one of the number one reasons job seekers get ghosted by companies.

Once your resume makes it through the ATS and gets into the hands of a hiring manager, don't think they're going to sit down and read each one. Who has that kind of time? You should expect that the first round of resume sorting will consist of them flipping through the stack to pick the ones that stand out within about 6 seconds of glancing at them. 

PRO TIP: Put your resume on a table, stand up, and look at it from a little distance. Is it eye-catching? Can you tell the position you're seeking just by glancing at it? Set a timer if you have to, but no more than 10 seconds.

Speaking of eye-catching, don't make the same mistake as a lot of your rival job seekers by being too generic with your resume. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that being non-specific will open doors to more opportunities. The problem is that the hiring manager won't be able to tell exactly where you'll fit within their organization. 

The first step in winning an interview is being sure that your resume actually makes it into the hands of a human being at the company you apply to. Start by defining what you want to do.

So the first, and most important, step in crafting the perfect resume is to narrow down your target career path. The more specific you are with this first step, the more response you'll receive from hiring managers because they'll be able to tell exactly how you fit within their organization. There are four areas to focus on as you begin to chart your career path:

Industry: Do you want to work in private sector, nonprofit, government, or public roles?

Geography: This one is more in-depth than choosing rural vs urban. It also includes whether you want to work in a dynamic or static environment.

Company size: You may not think it, but having an idea about whether you want to work in a small company or one with thousands of employees is important. 

Role: Saving the best for last, you have to know what position you want.

On the surface, it may seem like these things are only important for the job search aspect of landing a new position, but you have to know what voice to write your resume in, too. Part of that is knowing your audience. When you understand your audience, you can build a personal brand that resonates with what they're looking for in a new staff member.

Now that you've gotten your target career path nailed down, the next step is to brand you. Think of yourself as a product and your resume is the packaging. Companies spend a lot of time on their branding and packaging - you have to do the same thing.

The best place to start is with a  career assessment . Taking one of these tests can help you to identify your strengths, what sets you apart from others, and key themes of your professional identity. Just like Nike and Coca-Cola have timeless taglines and catchphrases that succinctly define what they have to offer to consumers, your personal brand has to tell a concise, yet compelling, story. This is where your resume comes in.

Your resume isn't just a piece of paper you give to a hiring manager or upload to a website that says, “I'm interested in this job.” Your resume is a personal marketing tool. You shape that tool with words that describe your experiences and achievements, to impress and grab the attention of the hiring manager. 

Unlike Nike's “Just Do It” phrase, your personal brand isn't something you build and forget. It is fluid and should be revisited and refined as you gain new skills, experiences, and achievements. Weave the elements of your brand into every section of your resume.

There is a common misconception that entry-level resumes look different than executive resumes. The reality is that the only difference is how much content is available to write about. 

Obviously, someone who has little to no experience will have a  short resume  – generally one page. 

When you start to get up to 10 years of experience, then you've earned the second page, so go ahead and use it. 

It's not incremental though

Just because you have 20 years of experience doesn't mean you can have a three-page resume. As you work through how to make a resume, remember that a three-page resume should be avoided, unless you have a lot of career extras like publications, research, patents, publications, or public speaking engagements to talk about. 

Other than the number of pages, your resume should use the same format and layout no matter if you're applying to a job as someone fresh out of college or seeking to be the CEO of a company. 

Chronological resume 

The  reverse-chronological  is the most popular, traditional, and well-known resume format. Its focus is placed on achievements from your career history and is defined by listing your work history starting with your current or most recent job and working backward 10-15 years. 

Employers like this type of resume because it tells them what, when, and where you worked. It's best to use this if your work history is steady and shows growth and development. If you're looking to make a career change, have had frequent job changes, or if you're seeking your first job, this may not be the best format to use.

Pro Tip: You could also get lost in the ATS if your  resume is over-designed . Many resume writers will tell you that you need to stand out in the sea of sameness by adding some personality to your resume through design. While that's true, you need to avoid heavily formatted resumes which are often rejected by computer scanners as being illegible.

Functional resume 

This resume type focuses more on skills and experiences rather than on your work history. It's more of a “what you know and how you apply that knowledge” than a simple list of where you got the knowledge. It plays down gaps in work history and makes frequent job changes less noticeable. If it isn't done properly, though, it can be confusing for the hiring manager to read and understand. There's also a bit of a stigma behind it, because employers know that job seekers use this style to downplay job-hopping. So, the first thing they do when they get a functional resume is check employment dates. If you can avoid using this style, it's best to do so.

Combination resume 

There is another resume format that focuses on skills first and then experience last. It's the combination resume, which is sometimes called a hybrid resume. This is the most complex resume type and the best resume for mid-career professionals who are transitioning into another career or for people who have special skills and a strong track record of accomplishments. These types of resumes do take a long time to read and some hiring managers won't take the time unless they're looking to fill a hard-to-fill position.

Curriculum Vitae

Curriculum Vitae (CV) is Latin and means “course of life.” It's a little different from a resume, but some positions require a CV over a resume. The first thing you would notice is that a CV is significantly longer than a resume.  A resume is a self-branding document meant to portray your experience and achievements in a concise and easy-to-read format. A CV goes much further into the depth of your education and accomplishments (think publications, awards, and honors) and even has a section for you to include "Areas of Interest."

The best way to describe a CV is that it's a career biography. The biggest significant difference is that a CV is arranged chronologically in a way that gives a complete overview of your full working career. It also doesn't change based on the career or position for which you're applying.

Layout 

To make things easier for the hiring manager to digest the content of your resume, it should be laid out in a specific way to ensure that the right information is in the right place. 

Hiring managers don't  READ  resumes. They skim through until they find something that piques their interest and then they stop to read

Contact information

Title 

Professional summary , core competencies, experience , education and credentials , awards, certificates, and volunteer work .

Since the reverse-chronological resume is the one that the majority of people will use to apply for jobs, and because it's the format that hiring managers want to see, we'll focus this article on showing you how to make a resume using that style. 

Current contact information 

Location | Phone | Email | LinkedIn | Portfolio (if applicable)

You can be creative and use bold font in your  contact information  and even put a border under it to separate it from the body of your resume. 

• Name: Be sure to list your name the same across all professional documents (e.g., resume, cover letter, thank you note, LinkedIn profile). Don't get hung up with whether to use your legal name (i.e. the name on your birth certificate or driver's license). Write your name in the manner you want people to address you. Also, if you use any abbreviated credentials after your name (e.g. Jane Smith, MD), remember to include them on all professional documents.  You can also include any shortened versions of your name in quotations (e.g. Christopher "Chris" Smith). Just make sure to list it the same way everywhere you put your name.
• Address: It is no longer customary to include your full address on your resume. There have been instances of discrimination against job seekers based on their address. As far as your address is concerned, all you need is the City, State, and Zip Code. A lot of people leave off the Zip Code; however, hiring managers can query the ATS for all resumes within a radius of a Zip Code. If you exclude the Zip Code or put something like, "Greater New York Metro Area," your resume won't be included in the query.
• Phone and email: Put the telephone number and email address where you can easily be reached. Also, be sure that your email address is professional. Using something like [email protected] just won't cut it. The best idea is to use some form of your name. If you're paranoid about having your name in your email address, then you can use some form of the type of position you seek, like [email protected].
• LinkedIn URL: You don't have to spell out the entire URL on the contact line. You can put the words “LinkedIn URL” and hyperlink those words. Before you include your LinkedIn URL, be sure that your LinkedIn profile is optimized for the career you want - because you can bet if they have access to it, the hiring manager will look at it. 
• Portfolio: If you're applying for a position like Graphic Designer or Software Designer, you may have a portfolio of work that you want to make available to someone reviewing your application for employment. Include a hyperlink to the portfolio in your contact information. 
• Headshot / photo: There is no reason to include a  headshot on your resume . Actually, it's seen as taboo and could be the thing that gets your resume rejected, because the hiring manager might assume you think you can get the job based on your looks. However, there are some exceptions, like if you're applying to be a model or actor. 

Do you want a hiring manager to be able to tell immediately what type of candidate you are? Put a title at the top of your resume. Center the text on the line, put it in bold font, and put a blank space above and below. The white space and the small amount of words will help it to jump off the page and immediately be noticed. It will also be the first step in helping you stand out in the sea of sameness.

Also, be sure the title on your resume mirrors the title on the job description that you're applying to, but add a bit of panache to it so that it's not too boring. For example, instead of writing “Financial Services Associate,” write “Client-Centric Financial Services Associate Dedicated to Customer Engagement and Revenue Growth.” Just remember to keep it on one line. 

The very next thing on the page should always be your Professional Summary. But how do you write a summary for a resume?

It's a three to five-sentence statement about you. Where you've been in your career, where you're going, and how you'll use your experience to get there. 

While the professional summary is sometimes referred to as the resume objective , you must remember that the days of writing a  resume objective are dead . Never, ever include an objective on your resume. They are a waste of space and don't relay any information that markets you as the best candidate for an open position. 

Let's take a look at an example of each:

Sales Representative seeking a challenging position that will use my skills and provide opportunities for growth in a dynamic and rewarding company. 

As you can see, the objective is very inward-facing and only talks about what you want out of your career. It provides no value to the hiring manager and eliminates any possibility for them to be able to tell what you bring to the table for them. 

Professional Summary:

Ambitious sales professional offering 10+ years' experience in customer retention and aggressive revenue growth. Conquers goals and quotas through a keen awareness of the human buying motive that allows for quickly overcoming objections. Used historical data and consumer trends to reach new customers and grow territory by 24%. Innate ability to work independently or as a member of a cross-functional team.

The best use of resume space is to write a summary of your career. The effectiveness of this summary comes from the fusing of three things:

Relevant keywords – customer retention, revenue growth, and quotas 

Hard and soft skills – overcoming objections and working independently

An achievement – 24% territory growth

With this professional summary, the hiring manager will be able to tell in an instant what you have to offer their team. 

Even though the skills section of your resume is small, it packs a powerful punch! The skills you list in this section highlight your key abilities and show potential employers what you bring to the table. 

It should contain approximately 12 ATS-friendly keywords and phrases that align with the keywords in the job description. Meaning, this is a fluid section that will need to be  tailored to every job  that you apply to. Technically speaking, your entire resume should be customized to align with each job description. That's one thing that will help you get past the ATS. 

Be sure to include a good mix of  hard and soft skills  because prospective employers not only want to know that you can perform the tasks related to your job (hard skills), but they also want to gain a clear understanding of how you'll fit within the culture of the company (soft skills). 

Tips for building your Core Competencies section:

Include skills that are relevant to the job that you're applying to

Avoid creating a laundry list of everything you know how to do – be selective so that the section is more impactful

Group similar competencies together using categories – technical skills, soft skills, and languages

Prioritize your top skills based on their relevance to the job you want

Update frequently

Be consistent with the formatting

Here is a sample Core Competencies list that contains both hard and soft skills:

Core Competencies

Project Management | Data Analysis | Cross-Functional Collaboration | Digital Marketing Strategy | Python Programming | Customer Relationship Management (CRM) | Negotiation | Team Leadership | Business Development | Financial Modeling | Articulate Communication

This section is meant to show how your career history lends itself to the skills you have that make you the perfect candidate for a given job. There are some general rules of thumb on how to make a resume with a great professional experience section:

Don't go further back than 10 to 15 years

Use no more than 3 to 5 bullets per work listing

Incorporate at least 5 measurable achievements per 10 years of experience (the more the better)

Use stacking for companies where you held more than one role

10-15 Years

The 10-15 years of experience is the most relevant – you can list more than that, but avoid using bullet points for roles over 10 years old. Begin by listing your most recent position first and work your way backward to your oldest position, within that 10-15-year range. If you have 30 years of experience, you can use achievements or skills you learned during that time as talking points during the interview. Listing those older experiences on your resume will only dilute the content.

As you write out your bullet points, keep two words in mind: “so what?” The hiring manager is going to be thinking it, you might as well be thinking it, too. Every time you write something on your resume, think, “So what? Why am I writing this? What value will it bring to my new employer? Will this be THE THING that lands me an interview?"

Achievements

Remove “Responsible for…” from your resume-writing vocabulary. That's because it's crucial that you talk about what you achieved, instead of just what your responsibilities were. Let's face it, there are a lot of things that people are “responsible for” that never get done. So, be sure to talk about things you actually accomplished, as that will be the proof the hiring manager needs to take the next step and call you for an interview.

1. Use numbers whenever possible

The best way to call attention to your career accomplishments is to use numbers. Numbers add credibility to your claims and provide a clear picture of what you bring to the table. 

Don't write this:

• Conducted cold calls to expand client base

Write this instead:

• Increased sales by 15% by making approximately 20 cold calls per day to expand the client base

The latter makes an unmistakable assertion that you had a positive impact, not only in your role but on the company as a whole. You can take it a step further and talk about things like problem-solving skills and how you addressed challenges to lead to team success. These types of  soft skills are highly valued by employers  and could be the thing that lands you an interview.

PRO TIP: Use the  CAR method  for building achievement statements into your resume.

2. Use action words to convey accomplishment

A lot of people make the mistake of copying bullet points from the job descriptions of the roles they've held. This practice makes you sound detached from achievements and focuses more on responsibilities. Using passive language is too generic and doesn't allow a hiring manager to see what you'll be able to accomplish in the new role. 

It's better to use action language to show that you're an achiever rather than a doer. Here are some examples of action words you can use on your resume: 

Worked with others: Advised, Aided, Assisted, Chaired, Coached, Collaborated with, Consulted with, Helped, Instructed, Interacted with, Mentored, Motivated, Supported

Communicated: Addressed, Advertised, Answered, Briefed, Corresponded with, Debated, Explained, Facilitated, Informed, Interpreted, Interviewed, Persuaded, Responded to

Analyzed data: Assessed, Appraised, Audited, Calculated, Computed, Estimated, Evaluated, Forecast, Inspected, Measured, Researched, Surveyed, Tested

Operated equipment: Installed, Maintained, Programmed, Ran, Serviced, Used

Worked with money or contracts: Administered, Appropriated, Authorized, Balanced, Controlled, Directed, Enforced, Financed, Funded, Governed, Invested, Monitored, Oversaw, Purchased

Organized something: Arranged, Assembled, Catalogued, Compiled, Coordinated, Itemized, Routed, Scheduled, Stocked, Tracked

Created: Composed, Customized, Designed, Directed, Established, Founded, Illustrated, Originated, Shaped

Researched: Analyzed, Collected, Criticized, Detected, Diagnosed, Evaluated, Tested

How to make your professional experience section: The formula

There's a formula for writing your professional experience section in a way that focuses on achievements. You'll start by asking yourself these questions about every job you've had:

What was the name of the company?

What was the title of your role?

What dates were you employed? (*Hint: use the MM/YYYY format for your dates)

What did you do every day? (*Example: Leveraged management skills to direct operations of 5 separate but concurrent projects by delegating tasks to staff based on employee acumen and monitoring / controlling budgets)

What is one thing you did at the company that you're really proud of?

What is another thing you're really proud of?

What is one more thing you did that you're really proud of?

When you put all of that together, it should look like this:

Company Name | MM/YYYY to Present

Position Title

Balanced competing priorities on multiple and concurrent projects and program management initiatives using data-driven strategies in Agile environments. Managed key accounts, onboarded new accounts, and oversaw organizational process adoption for nursing facilities, emergency departments, and pharmacies.

Developed $2M Provider Incentive Program that increased community provider partnerships

Saved $800K by using Six Sigma skills to implement DMAIC approach

Coached and mentored 2 direct reports, creating an open environment of communication that facilitated future-facing decision-making

Many people will create separate sections for education history and certifications. That's not necessary. You can include all of it in one section. You can also include extras like  relevant coursework , projects, and achievements. These extras can be truly beneficial for your application if you have little to no work experience. 

There are some general rules of thumb for the education section: 

Spell out acronyms (BS, MS, PhD) and school abbreviations

It is no longer customary to include graduation dates unless you're still in school or graduated within the last year

Never include high school, unless you're still in high school - listing high school doesn't say “ I finished high school, ” it says, “ I didn't go to college .” 

List your degree first and then your school, unless you've obtained multiple degrees at the same institution. 

Here's what a regular education section looks like:

EDUCATION AND CREDENTIALS

Master of Business Administration (MBA) | ABC University

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) | XYZ University

Six Sigma Black Belt | Council for Six Sigma Certification

If you don't have a lot of experience and need to include some relevant coursework or major projects to inject relevant keywords into your resume, then this is what that would look like:

Relevant coursework:  Marketing, Operations Management, Accounting, Corporate Finance

Capstone project:  Let a team of 4 to execute a market analysis project to expand the Brooms and Handles company into new regions. Used market and consumer analysis data to identify gaps and achieve a 15% projected revenue increase and a 20% increase in customer satisfaction within the pilot program. 

You can include educational information about a degree program even if it's still in progress. Here's what that would look like:

Expected completion:  05/2024

Capstone project:  Let a team of 4 to execute a market analysis project to expand the Brooms and Handles company into new regions. Used market and consumer analysis data to identify gaps and achieve a 15% projected revenue increase and a 20% increase in customer satisfaction within the pilot program.

It is important to list what you do outside of work and school. It helps to demonstrate that you're a well-rounded person. 

Were you the president of a fraternity or sorority? 

Did you get involved with showing new students around campus? 

Have you headed a sales team that produced top awards? 

Were you an employee of the month? 

Do you speak multiple languages?

Did you volunteer for an organization?

Did you perform some major research that ended up being published?

All of these extras allow prospective employers a sneak peek into your life outside of work. They can also go a long way to breaking the ice during an interview, especially if something you do outside work is important or interesting to the hiring manager. 

Keep in mind to list only those volunteer positions, projects, or affiliations that are related to your career goals. 

How long does it take to make a resume?

If you're going to use the resume wizard that MS Word has, you can slap your information together in a day or two. It will get to employers. The bad thing is that it probably won't get a whole lot of attention. 

The "just right resume" can take weeks, because of how much background work goes into it. You'll write it, rewrite it, and write it again, and may even have multiple versions. Ultimately, the exact amount of time that goes into putting your resume together depends on your level of experience, how complex your history is, and the specificity of the job you're applying to. 

Entry-level resumes take the least amount of time, simply because there's less information to include

Mid-level resumes take a few days because of the amount of detail in your work history

Executive resumes, or those for specialized positions, can take weeks - especially if you have to do some digging to come up with accomplishments from your previous positions

Updating an existing resume that's well-maintained can be done in just a few hours

While the time spent can seem like a lot, if you're truly marketing yourself for that “just right” position, do you want your resume to say “This was thrown together in a couple of hours using a template” OR do you want it to say “I know this document is important and a significant amount of time was spent on it to make it perfect?”

The first and foremost thing that will get your resume tossed in the garbage can are typos. The number of resumes with errors that are turned in every day to employers across the globe is so astounding that it bears discussing. 

You must proofread your resume!

The major problem with typos and grammatical boo-boos is that your eyes will read what you intended to type. So, after you've read through your resume a few times and think it's perfect, get a friend to read it. Make sure the friend is one of those brutally honest types. It's better to get it back marked all over with bright red ink so you can fix it before you send it out, than to send it out and then realize there's a mistake in it.

How to make your resume seem more professional

Lazy words: Do you see words like "etc" or “other duties as required” on your resume? Delete them immediately. If you take shortcuts in the language of your resume, hiring managers will wonder if you'll be taking shortcuts at work. 

Cookie cutter resumes: Your resume has to stand out. Because of that, you should avoid throwing something together that you find a sample of online. Make it yours, make it represent you. Many people rely on the resume wizard that comes loaded with MS Word and, while that is a good tool to use to help you remember the sections to include, it shouldn't be the end-all-and-be-all of your resume design. 

Specificity: You've had three jobs in the last 10 years and you've listed every detail of everything you've done during your tenure at those jobs. That makes you a Jack (or Jackie) of all trades, but a master of nothing. You have to be specific to the job for which you're applying. What value do you bring to that employer for that job? What achievements can you highlight?

Tailoring: Considering the rampant use of ATS by companies big and small, you have to take the time to customize your resume so that it gets past those scanners. Remember to use relevant keywords from the job descriptions throughout your resume. 

PRO TIP: You can check to see how to make your resume better! Have it checked against an ATS and get a free, personalized, and  professional resume review . 

Theory in practice – 10 resume examples

It's one thing to have someone tell you how to make a resume, it's another thing to see an example – proof that all of this information can come together in a practical way that makes sense. 

1. Software Engineer resume example

Click here for an example of a Software Engineer resume.

2. Data Scientist resume example

Click here for an example of a Data Scientist resume.

3. Cybersecurity resume example

Click here for an example of a cybersecurity resume.

4. Digital Marketing Manager resume example

Click here for an example of a Digital Marketing Manager resume.

5. Nurse Practitioner resume example

Click here for an example of a Nurse Practitioner resume. 

6. Finance Director resume example

Click here for an example of a Finance Director resume. 

7. Attorney resume example

Click here for an example of a Attorney resume.

8. Administrative Office Assistant resume example

Click here for an example of an Administrative Office Assistant resume. 

9. Information Technology Expert resume example

Click here for an example of an Information Technology Expert resume. 

10. Chief Executive Officer resume example

Click here for an example of a CEO resume. 

Now you know how to make a resume for your next job!

It may seem like it takes a lot of work to make a good resume, but if you've followed along this far there are a few things that should be ingrained in you that will help you write a professional resume:

Know what you want to do – be specific

Make your resume with the right format 

Use a standard layout, whether you are writing your first resume or 50th

Use action words to make your resume stand out

Quantify your achievements to prove that you have what it takes to succeed in a new role

Tailor your new resume to each job

Double and triple-check for errors, typos, and grammar mistakes

If you're still unsure how to make a perfect resume, TopResume has you covered. Our team of  professional resume writers  has the know-how and experience to write a resume for you that will win interviews.

Recommended reading: 

Resume Tricks That Don't Work

What Does Your Resume Really Say About You?

Bad Resume Advice You Should Completely Ignore

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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How to write a resume: Expert guide & examples (2024)

Step #1: Contact information

Step #2: professional summary or objective, step #3: work history, step #4: skills section, step #5: education, step #6: optional sections, what makes a good resume, what is the first thing you do when writing a resume, how to write a resume with no experience, how far back should a resume go.

• What are the 4 C's of resume writing?

How to write a resume quickly?

Should i include a picture in my resume.

Writing a clear, concise resume is a superpower when you’re job searching. While most people walk up the hiring ladder, you put on your crimson cape and soar upwards at supersonic speed.

So, how can you make your resume stand out from the crowd? In this guide, we cover everything you need to know to write a spectacular resume from scratch. Follow our six steps towards success and propel yourself toward success. Let’s get started.

Preparation

First things first, you need to do some preparation. Review the job posting and gather the essentials to ensure that you create a stellar resume. This step will make the rest of the process much easier.

Start out by looking at the job description and taking note of the criteria and expertise the hiring manager has listed. You should then match your qualifications and experience to the job. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the things that you will need: 

• Complete list of your work experience and notable accomplishments
• Information about previous employers (including company names, locations, dates, etc)
• Extensive list of the hard and soft skills you may include
• Educational details for any certificates that you plan to include
• Honors, awards, and any voluntary experience that may be relevant

Choosing the right resume format

When creating your resume, it's essential to choose the right format. There are three main options to consider:

• Chronological Format (Reverse Chronological Resume) - Most popular : This is the most common format, where your work experience and qualifications are listed in reverse chronological order. It’s typically recommended for most job applications.
• Functional Format ( Skills-Based Resume ) : This format emphasizes your talents and skills rather than your work history. It’s ideal for those with less experience or those making a career change .
• Combination Format (Hybrid Resume) : This option combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats, highlighting both your skills and work experience.

Selecting the format that best matches your background will help your resume stand out.

But don’t worry; our resume builder simplifies the process! You can easily drag and drop sections to rearrange them into your preferred resume format .

How to make a resume: step-by-step guide

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to start making your resume. In this guide, we will cover six simple steps to help you along the way, as follows: 

• How to add contact information
• Writing your professional summary or objective
• Detailing your work history and experience
• Including the right skills for the job
• Showcasing your education well
• Optional sections you may want to include.

The first thing that you need to do is add your contact information. Your resume header acts as a business card, allowing you to quickly share these details with the hiring manager. 

Ensure that you format this section clearly. Your number one priority is making sure the hiring manager can read this information. Here are the main elements you should include:

• Full name & title . List your first and last name. Plus the role for which you are applying.
• Professional email address . Make sure you use an email address that is suitable for work. You can use one that has your first and last name, for example.
• Phone number . Use a phone number that you use regularly. You should also make sure that the answer phone message is suitable for a professional environment.
• Location . You don’t need to list your whole address. This is outdated and potentially unsafe. List your city and state . Add ' Willing to Relocate ,’ if applicable.
• LinkedIn . Include a link to your LinkedIn profile if it’s relevant. However, you should make sure that it is up to date and active before you do so.
• Portfolio . Include your GitHub or other portfolio links if they are relevant to the job.

Don’t include:

• Date of birth . You don’t need to include this, as it can lead to age discrimination .
• Personal details . Marital status, social security number (a common job scam ), passport number , etc.
• Photo . Generally not recommended for US resumes due to potential bias. Exceptions include modeling and acting roles . If added, use a professional headshot.

Bonus: If you want to stand out from the crowd, you may include a resume headline . This is a one-line description that covers your main value to the hiring manager. For example, “ Content writer with specialty in B2B client services and 5+ year track record” .

James Clark, Accountant

Philadelphia, PA

(267) 216-2188

[email protected]

6500 Rossey Street

Philadelphia, PA 19119

United States

Below your header, insert either a professional summary or an objective . Summaries are ideal for people who have worked in the same industry for a matter of years. 

However, if you are new to the sector—or the job market as a whole—you should include an objective, instead.   

In summary, a Resume Objective highlights your future goals, a Resume Profile offers a snapshot of your current qualifications, and a Resume Summary showcases your career achievements.  

It is generally recommended that you use a resume summary rather than an objective, as the former provides more value to potential employers. Whichever you select should be placed at the top of your resume.

Whichever you choose, keep it short and snappy. You want to grab the reader’s attention immediately. Include action verbs to give your statement more value. You can use the simple past or present tense . Examples include transformed, excelled, and delivered.  

If you have a case of writer’s block, don’t panic. Let’s take a look at some copyable examples you can use for inspiration: 

Enthusiastic graduate with a foundation in business principles and a passion for sales. Ability to cultivate positive relationships with clients, understand customer needs, and deliver tailored solutions. Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with a track record of achieving sales targets. Seeking a role in a dynamic sales team and the chance to grow within a reputable company.

Sales professional with over 5 years of experience in developing and executing strategic plans driving revenue growth by 17% each year. Proven track record in cultivating strong client relationships, identifying market opportunities, and utilizing CRM software.

Senior Sales Executive with over 10+ years of experience in leading high-performing sales teams. Confident in developing innovative strategies to drive business growth. Proven track record in surpassing sales targets by 20% each quarter, expanding market share, and cultivating long-term client relationships. Recognized for strong leadership skills, strategic planning, and the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve excellence.

Not sure whether to opt for a resume or summary? There’s a right and wrong time to use each of these. Read our complete guide to help you make the decision now.

Add some flair to your summary or objective! 

Pique the hiring manager’s interest by using creative adjectives. While these descriptors should be used sparingly, they can make your personal statement sound more compelling. Take a look at our ultimate list of 80 of the best resume adjectives now.

When you have perfected either your summary or objective, the next step is adding your work history . 

The golden rule is that you should detail up to 10-15 years' worth of experience. If you have been in the sector for longer than that, you don’t need to include older positions. 

You are applying for your first proper job, but how do you ensure that you don’t get rejection after rejection? This article covers how to make a resume for a first job.

Use the reverse-chronological order when listing your positions. Include the basic information for each job: e.g. the company name, location, your position, and your dates of employment.

Below that, include bullet points that offer more detail. List results-based points that highlight the impact that you made in each case. Here are some examples: 

• “Oversaw initiatives that led to a 40% increase in annual revenue within the first year.”
• “Managed 20 sales professionals to achieve a 95% client retention rate overall.”
• “Boosted customer satisfaction scores by 20% through new sales approaches.”

Take a look at our employment history resume sample below:

Sales Manager at Winthrop and Lee, Boulder  November 2014 - Present 

• Helped to achieve a 25% increase in sales revenue over the course of 1 year.
• Established sales goals by forecasting annual sales quotas and projecting expected sales volume for existing and new products.
• Effectively monitored competition and appropriately adjusted costs based on supply and demand.
• Managed sales employees and counseled employees based on their professional growth and productivity.

Sales Manager at Lola & Co, Denver  September 2010 - October 2014 

• Successfully managed a sales team of 10+ people to meet and achieve sales goals.
• Developed and implemented sales plans to expand customer base and increase customer retention.
• Presented sales, revenue, and expense reports to management teams.
• Researched competition and developed strategies to stand out as a company against competitors.
• Monitored the performance of sales team members and worked to increase team morale and motivation.

Sales Associate at The Mighty East, Denver  August 2008 - August 2010 

• Always provided excellent customer service.
• Checked prices and promotional rates for customers.
• Answered customer questions and concerns.
• Helped increase customer retention by striving to create wonderful customer experiences.
• Worked with the mission of the company in mind and served as a dedicated and enthusiastic part of the sales team.

Winning resumes need a mixture of hard and soft skills. Including both of these shows the hiring manager that you are a well-rounded candidate. 

Hard skills — often known as technical skills —relate directly to the industry or role. These may involve training you’ve had on the job or how to use certain systems, software, or tools. 

Soft skills — on the other hand, span industries. You can use these in a wide selection of roles, which is why they are often called transferable skills . Examples include customer service , communication skills , time management , organization , and interpersonal skills . 

While you may be competent in a wide selection of skills, we recommend listing 6-8 skills on your resume . Make sure that the ones you choose align with the demands of the vacancy. 

Top skills for common professions

If you don’t know where to start when listing your key skills, refer back to the job posting. 

You can also take a look at our top skills for common professions here:

Our resume builder offers several pre-written key skills to choose, and you can also add your own. When you have done so, set the proficiency level for each skill , as shown below: 

Showcasing your education on your resume doesn't have to be hard. Most of the time, you should use a reverse-chronological order here. Include the name of the institute, the location, the years you attended (or when you received the qualification ), and your final grade. 

Above all else, make sure that the certificates you include align with the position for which you are applying. If you don’t know where to start, here are examples of what you can include: 

• High school diploma. If you don’t have a college degree, include your high school diploma and grade, typically spanning from 9 to 12.
• Bachelor’s degrees. Include any college degrees you have. You should list your major—and any minor subjects—as well as your final grade or GPA .
• Master’s degrees. If you have a master’s degree, such as an MBA , you should list it in this section. It is likely to put you ahead of the competition. Consider adding your graduation date too.
• Training or courses . If you have undertaken any learning and development courses in your spare time or at work, you should list it in this part of your resume.
• Internships. Within some industries, internships are commonplace. Provide details of the company with which you completed your internship.

Certifications and Licenses

Certifications and licenses can set your resume apart from the crowd. Rack your brain and make sure that you don’t miss any of these. 

You can list these within your resume header, summary, education section, or as a bullet point within your work experience section. 

When listing these on your resume, you need to include the following: 

• Certificate name (and abbreviation)
• Issuing body and/or location
• Date issued
• Expiration date and/or renewal date

The type of certificates or licenses you have will depend on your industry. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable options for popular careers. 

• Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ)
• Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)
• Certified Marketing Professional (CMP)
• Facebook Blueprint Certification
• American Marketing Association (AMA) Professional Certified Marketer (PCM)
• Marketing Management Professional (MMP) from the Digital Marketing Institute
• Certified Social Media Marketer (CSMM)
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Certification

Customer services 

• Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP)
• Customer Service Certification (CSC) by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA)
• Certified Call Center Manager (CCCM)
• Certified Customer Experience Professional (CCEP)
• Certified Customer Service Specialist (CCSS)

Registered nurse

• National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP)
• Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
• Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)
• Certified Gerontological Nurse (CGN)

Accountant 

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)
• American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)
• Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
• Association of Government Accountants (AGA)
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional
• Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE)
• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Cisco Certified Professional Network Professional (CCNP)
• Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
• Oracle Certified MySQL Database Administrator (CMDBA)

Hospitality and catering 

• ManageFirst
• National Registry of Food Safety Professionals
• Learn2Serve
• National Environmental Health Association
• American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute

Construction 

• National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)
• American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certification
• Green Building Certification (LEED)
• Crane Operation Certification
• Construction Management Association of America—Certified Construction Manager (CCM)

Be sure to check out the most valuable licenses and certificates for your career. If you don’t already have them, it may be worth pursuing them to increase your employability. 

If you have taken the time to further your industry knowledge with some free certificate courses, they may provide a useful additional chapter in your resume career story.

If you have completed all of the above steps, you should be on the right track. However, adding extra information to your resume could bolster your application. 

Whether you take this step will depend on your experience and the space you have left on your document.  

• Awards . If you have received any awards that relate to your career, you may want to include them in their own section. List the award, the body, and the date you received it.
• Publications . You may have been featured in industry publications . Creating a separate section allows you to list a few. Include the publication date, name of the publication, and the article title. You may also choose to add a hyperlink to the article, if it’s online.
• Voluntary work . If you have volunteered—and it’s relevant to your career —you can create a separate section for this. You may also want to include this in your work experience section. Should you do so, make it clear it was a voluntary position.
• Hobbies . If you have any hobbies or interests that will further your application, you can create a section for them. However, beware of wasting space with this addition.
• References . While including references is not common these days, there are some industries where it is expected. List the contact details of each referee in a section.
• Languages . Do you speak a second language ? If so, you may choose to create a small section for this on your resume. You can also list it as a skill in your skills section.

Think long and hard about which of these sections you should include. It’s not just about filling the space on the page. Everything you add should have real value to the reader.

Resume optimization

Now that you have the basics down on paper, it’s time to optimize your resume. There are a few ways that you can take your resume to the next level and increase your chances of success. 

Use keywords and phrases throughout 

Most companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to rank incoming applications. The software reviews each resume and scores it based on how well it aligns with the job description.

If you don’t pass the ATS, your resume may never be seen by humans, even if it is eye-catching . To boost your chances of beating the bots, include keywords and phrases. 

Return to the original job advert and review the content. Pick out any words that relate directly to the vacancy. These may include the core competencies, for example. Weave these words throughout your resume in a natural way.

Include action verbs in your resume 

Action verbs highlight your value to the hiring manager. Including them in your resume can change the tone of the document, showing that you have what it takes to succeed. 

Consider which action verbs align with your career history. Editing the content of your resume to feature these words is a quick way to position you as a top candidate for employers. 

Focus on your achievements and results 

Hiring managers want to know one thing—what you can offer them. By focusing your resume on the achievements you have, you can give them a straight answer. Wherever possible, include solid facts. You can use these in your work experience and summary sections. 

Be sure to quantify each of your achievements. You can do this by including statistics and facts throughout. For example, rather than simply saying that you have a “proven track record of success,” use a statistic to show the hiring manager that this is the case. 

Tailor your resume to the job description 

Using the same resume for every vacancy is a mistake. To help you land your next job interview, you need to tailor your resume to the job description. That means taking the time to understand what the hiring manager needs and ensuring that your application meets that demand. 

It’s not simply about using the right keywords (although that is important!). You also need to speak the same language as the hiring manager. Make sure that your resume mirrors the professional tone of the job posting as well as including the essential criteria. 

Formatting your resume 

Looks matter more than you might expect. When it comes to formatting your resume, you need to get it right from the start. That means choosing an effective layout, template, and style. 

Luckily, you can use our resume builder tool to make the process easy. We have five template categories from which to choose: Simple , ATS , Modern , Creative , and Professional . 

The aim of the game is to grab the hiring manager’s attention. Your resume should be easy to read. 

If you put any obstacles in the reader’s way, there’s a good chance they will discard your application. For that reason, you need to learn the basic design rules before you get started.

Simple formatting and design tips 

• Make sure that the margins are spaced correctly throughout
• Choose one or two colors that reflect your professional personality
• Pick an easy to read font and use it consistently on your resume
• Select the right resume paper if you plan to print your document
• Consider a two-column resume if you need to make the most of the space
• Try to cram too much information onto your resume
• Include unnecessary graphs, imagery , or other design elements
• Go for an overly creative design if you have a professional career path
• Forget that the font size should be 10-12 points for body content
• Go overboard with borders, background images, or pictures

Getting the visual elements of your resume right is an absolute must. If in doubt, it’s always smart to use one of our field-tested resume templates .

Resume examples

Looking for some creative inspiration? We have you covered. Let’s take a look at some of our most popular resume examples:

• Teacher resume example
• Technician resume example
• Shop assistant resume example
• Retail manager resume example
• Lawyer resume example
• Plumber resume example
• Call center agent resume example
• Office assistant resume example
• Business manager resume example
• Human resources resume example
• HR director resume example

Want to know what not to do? Take a look at our bad resume examples now. Avoid making simple mistakes that could cost you your next job opportunity.

Finalizing the resume

When you are happy with the content of your resume, you need to finalize it. Start by thoroughly proofreading the document . You can use a tool, such as Grammarly , to help you out here.

You may also want to share your resume with peers. Coworkers, friends, and former managers could help you with this part of the process. Ask for constructive criticism and use it. 

Once you have finished, save your file as a PDF, Google Doc , or Docx. Make sure that you pick an appropriate file name for your resume , such as “Your name_resume”. 

Resume writing tips 

You’re almost done! Before you start working on your resume, take a look at some of the ways that you could boost its potential. Here are some simple resume writing tips. 

• Cut out any jargon . Use simple language that the hiring manager can understand.
• Incorporate keywords . Pepper your resume with keywords and phrases.
• Quantify your results . Always provide evidence for the achievements you’ve made.
• Add creative language . Include some action verbs and creative adjectives.
• Create a matching cover letter . Write a cover letter that suits your resume perfectly.
• Avoid silly mistakes . Always proofread your resume before you submit it.
• Update your resume . Regularly review and update your resume content.
• Consider a resume writer . Get a professional resume writer to review or help write your resume.

Read more about how to perfect this art in our comprehensive resume tips guide .

Resume writing frequently asked questions

To make a good resume, always tailor it to the job description. You can include action verbs, results-based points, and creative adjectives throughout, too. 

The first thing you should do when writing a resume is gather the information you need. This approach will save you time and energy later. 

To write a resume with no experience , focus on your transferable skills. Highlighting these will show the hiring manager that you have the talents you need to succeed.  

Resumes should go back no longer than 10-15 years. 

What are the 4 C's of resume writing?

The four C’s of resume writing are clear, concise, correct, and compelling. Make sure that your resume ticks all of these boxes. 

To write a resume quickly, make sure you plan in advance. Gather the information you need and use it when writing. 

Avoid the temptation to rely solely on ChatGPT to write your resume . While the AI software can provide some support, you need to tailor your resume yourself. 

You can include a profile picture in your resume. However, don’t include unnecessary imagery or pictures that don’t add anything to your application.

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How to Make a Resume

Last Updated: May 9, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Alyson Garrido, PCC and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Alyson Garrido is an International Coach Federation accredited Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Facilitator, and Speaker. Using a strengths-based approach, she supports her clients with job search and career advancement. Alyson provides coaching for career direction, interview preparation, salary negotiation, and performance reviews as well as customized communication and leadership strategies. She is a Founding Partner of the Systemic Coach Academy of New Zealand. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 37 testimonials and 85% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 15,632,072 times.

Whether you're a new graduate or a seasoned professional, a polished resume is essential for a successful job hunt. Your resume is a visual document that hiring managers will typically only glance at for a few seconds. A clean structure and well-organized content can help your resume stand out from the rest. Tailor your resume to each job, highlighting the skills, education, and experience that make you a strong candidate. [1] X Research source

Sample Resumes

Structuring Your Resume

• There are also templates available for download online, many of them free. If you don't want to use one of the basic templates in your word processing app, you may find another online that works for you.
• Template elements can also be customized to suit your needs. Think of it as scaffolding that you can adjust or eliminate as necessary.
• Use a standard, readable font in 10- or 12-point. Your section headings may be a little larger. Times New Roman and Georgia are popular serif fonts. If you want to go with a sans-serif font, try Calibri or Helvetica.

Tip: If you're looking for a job in web layout and design or graphic design, build your own unique design and use your resume to show off your skills.

• For example, you could have all the information centered. You could also have your address on the left side and your phone number and email address on the right, with your name centered in the middle in a slightly larger size.
• If you don't already have a professional email address, get one from a free email service such as Gmail . Ideally, the email address you use on your resume will be some version of your initials and last name. Never list a silly or suggestive personal email address on your resume.

• You don't have a lot of flexibility with a chronological resume, but you can still arrange the sections in a way that puts your strongest information at the top. For example, if you have a lot of education but not a lot of work experience, you might want to list education first.

• A functional resume is also a good choice if you have an extensive amount of experience and want to limit your resume to a page. You can focus on the skills you've developed rather than having to list each individual job with specific details.

• Because this type of resume can get lengthy, consider only listing your last 2 or 3 jobs and your highest educational degree. If you've been at your most recent job for over 10 years, you may want to only list that. You can make clear in the functional part of your resume how long you've been working in the industry.

Making Your Content Shine

• For example, if you're creating a resume for an online writing job, you might include "editing" as one of your skills. One of your bullet points might state the number of articles you've edited on wikiHow and any accolades you were given for that work. Even if it's volunteer work, it's still experience as an editor.
• You can also include relatively soft skills. For example, you might list "team leader" as one of your skills. You could then include bullet points detailing your work in student government, organizing a rally for a nonprofit organization, or working as a camp counselor.

• Generally, you should include the month and year you started and ended the job in a chronological resume. However, if you worked there for several years, just the years are typically fine.
• With a functional resume, you have a little more leeway in how you include your work experience. You don't necessarily have to include the dates you worked for a particular employer, although you should indicate the length of time you worked there. For example, you might say "Managed 20-person sales force for 10 years."
• Use active verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments. Specific numbers and metrics show potential employers exactly what you achieved. For example, if you were a sales manager, you might include a line such as "Implemented changes that increased sales by 27% in 1 quarter."

Charbel Atala

Leverage your achievements strategically on your resume. Be selective in choosing which professional and academic accomplishments to highlight on application materials. Only showcase achievements that prove you possess strengths and capabilities needed for the target role.

• For example, if you've just graduated from law school and are applying for a job as an attorney, you would want to include your law degree on your resume as well as the bar you've been admitted to. If you're admitted to practice in any other courts, you would want to list them as well.

• If you had a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, feel free to include it with your educational information. Otherwise, you should leave it out. If you're listing more than one degree, include your GPA on both of them if possible. Otherwise, don't include it at all.

Tip: If you have a terminal degree that is essential to your line of work, you might include it in your header instead of creating a separate education section. This can free up some precious space.

• It can be tempting to fudge a little in your skills section and exaggerate your skill level to sound more impressive. However, this can get you in trouble. For example, if you only know a handful of words and phrases in Spanish, don't put on your resume that you're conversational or even fluent. If the hiring manager starts talking to you in Spanish, you've eliminated your chances of getting hired.
• If specific skills were listed in the job post and you happen to have those skills, on the other hand, include a skills section and list them along with detail about your proficiency.

Tip: If you don't have a lot of work experience, you may want to include soft skills, such as "diligent" or "self-motivated" as well. Just make sure you back them up with concrete examples that demonstrate that trait.

• Make sure the keywords you use fit in with the rest of your text, and use them sparingly. There's no need to repeat the same word or phrase over and over.

• For example, if you're applying to be a manager at a sporting goods store, the fact that you play several sports would definitely be relevant to that position.

Finalizing Your Resume

• Move sections around if needed so that the most important qualifications listed in the job description are at the top of the page. Rearrange your bullet points as well, putting the most relevant information first.
• Even if you're proud of a particular accomplishment, take it off your resume if it doesn't relate to the job in any way.

Tip: If you're applying for a job that's a departure from your previous career path, it can be helpful to add a summary that explains your interest or why you're applying for that position.

• For example, suppose you worked as a barista at a café. You might include a bullet point that you maintained high sanitation standards. However, you want to make that as quantifiable as possible. You might say "Implemented new sanitation program; increased café health and sanitation score by 11%."
• Make your bullet points personal, rather than just rattling off the job description for the position. For example, if you were a retail sales associate, you might say "Exceeded all personal sales goals for 4 months" rather than "Sold clothing and accessories to customers."

• Be careful with apostrophes and contractions. If you have difficulty with contractions and possessives, read what you've written as though you spelled the full words out rather than using an apostrophe and see if it makes sense. For example, you could easily find the error in the sentence "Trained sales staff and reported they're progress" if you read it as "Trained sales staff and reported they are progress."
• Make sure your formatting and punctuation are consistent. For example, if you use bullet points in one section, you should use them in all sections.
• Free online apps, such as Grammarly , can help you find errors you might not have noticed on your own.

Tip: Start at the last word and read each word in isolation, moving backward through the document. This removes the narrative structure to help errors stand out more.

• A PDF document benefits you as well because it preserves your formatting choices. It also prevents errors from being accidentally introduced if the hiring manager opens your resume or prints it out.

• Take at least 3 copies of your resume to the interview. If you know you are being interviewed by a hiring team, take enough copies so that each member of the team can have one. You also want to make sure you have at least one left over for yourself.

Additional Help

Expert Q&A

• Include a cover letter, even if the employer doesn't specifically require one. It can give your resume context and provide a more personal introduction to you as a candidate. [20] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Using years instead of months and years can help hide gaps in your resume. Just remember to be honest if the interviewer asks you about it. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• You can include a section at the bottom of your resume for references . However, if you're running tight on space, feel free to leave this section out. If the hiring manager wants references, they can ask for them. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Never lie on a resume. At best, you'll find yourself unable to perform the job. At worst, you could get fired or face legal action. Fabricating government work experience could even land you in jail for fraud. [21] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.myfuture.com/career/applying/creating-your-resume
• ↑ https://careers.workopolis.com/advice/choose-right-resume-templates-examples/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/functional-resume-tips-and-examples
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-to-make-a-resume-for-your-first-job
• ↑ Alyson Garrido, PCC. Career Coach. Expert Interview. 24 January 2020.
• ↑ https://novoresume.com/career-blog/resume-keywords-how-to-use-them
• ↑ https://careersidekick.com/how-to-tailor-your-resume-for-each-job-description/
• ↑ https://www.opencolleges.edu.au/blogs/articles/how-to-write-a-resume
• ↑ http://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/jobs-and-careers/applying-for-a-job/what-is-a-resume/how-to-write-a-resume
• ↑ https://www.findlaw.com/legalblogs/law-and-life/can-you-get-arrested-for-lying-on-your-resume/

About This Article

To make a resume, start by choosing a professional font, like Times New Roman or Arial, in size 11 or 12. Then, create a heading at the top of the page that includes your name, address, and contact information. Underneath your heading, include sections on your employment history and education experience. You should also add a skills section that mentions any relevant skills you have. If you don't have a lot of prior job experience, put the skills section at the top of your resume so it stands out. Remember to keep your resume under 1-2 pages so it's easy to read. To learn how and when to make a functional, chronological, or combination resume, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How To Make A Resume (With Free Template)

Published: May 7, 2024, 9:00am

Table of Contents

What is a résumé, how to make a résumé, 7 tips for writing a résumé, free résumé template, bottom line, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Whether you’re a college graduate entering the workforce or a parent returning to work after a long time, you need a compelling résumé to show recruiters you’re the best fit for an open position. We’ve compiled the steps you need to take to create your résumé and included a few tips to guide you when building your résumé. You’ll see what goes into a résumé that hiring managers respond to.

A résumé is a formal document recruiters ask applicants for as part of a recruitment process to assess their suitability for a specific role. A résumé provides an overview of your professional background and history, including your qualifications, work experience, skills and notable achievements. It records your professional development and is a potential employer’s first impression of you.

Here’s what a résumé does for you:

• It allows you to market yourself
• It shows recruiters how your experience can contribute to the organization’s growth
• It helps recruiters determine whether or not to call you for the next recruitment step

While there are different types of résumés with various content arrangements and formatting styles, here is the information required to build your résumé.

Add Your Name and Contact Information

When creating your résumé, the first item on your list should be your first and last name and primary contact information—phone number and email address. Also, adding a link to your website, portfolio or professional social media account gives potential employers multiple contact options and insight into your work, especially as a creative. Including your complete mailing address, city and state is also okay if the job listing calls for local applicants.

Include a Professional Summary or Objective

Your professional summary highlights your qualifications, skills and career goals. So, focus on concisely showing how your experience relates to the role you’re applying for. If you’re just getting started, changing careers or returning to the job industry after a break, opt for a professional objective, a summary of how your skills and qualifications can help you do well at the job. However, highlight something valuable the company can gain from you.

Add Your Work Experience

To determine your value, prospective employers examine how you’ve practicalized your knowledge and skills in your previous roles. So, include your previous job titles, organization names, company locations and employment dates. Then, include three to five accomplishments under each role.

Use action words, numbers and outcomes to explain your accomplishment while carrying out your responsibilities. For example, instead of saying you worked on a software updates team, say something such as “developed over 50 software updates that enhanced consumer productivity by 55%.” First-time job seekers can include internship and volunteer experience, but ensure you indicate that it was unpaid.

Include Your Education

List your education history, leaving the highest level at the top. Here are a few things to keep in mind when drafting this section.

• If you graduated more than 10 years ago, there’s no need to include your graduation year
• If you don’t have any work experience, indicate relevant coursework or internship
• If you’re still pursuing a degree or diploma, include the start date, but leave the completion date blank, unless there’s a graduation date
• Include your high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) only if you don’t have a college degree
• If recent, include awards, honors and scholarships and the year you received them

Highlight Relevant Skills

Dedicate a section of your résumé to highlight your hard and soft skills to show recruiters that you’re well-rounded. Aim for six to eight of such skills as are relevant to the role. Soft skills are people skills such as leadership, interpersonal and communication skills, while hard skills are the technical skills required for a specific job. Adding your aptitude, such as “proficient” or “intermediate” can also enhance your value. If applying without work experience, focus on transferable skills such as critical thinking and communication, which are helpful for any role.

Add Relevant Certifications, Licenses and Training

If your job requires certifications, include a section for that below the Education section. List the following.

• Certification or license title
• Certifying body or agency
• Date of certification
• Expiration date (if applicable)

Leverage Your Achievements

To make your résumé set you apart from other candidates, include a section to outline achievements and awards that further highlight your accomplishments and what you can contribute to an organization. These include honors, projects, publications (online or print), volunteer work and leadership positions. Awards show your commendation by those you’ve worked with, while volunteer experience augments your résumé as an applicant without work experience.

Below are a few tips to follow when preparing your résumé.

1. Ask for Help

Speak with those in your field, including peers and career counselors. Glean from their recommendations and pay attention to shared resources’ general language and formatting style.

2. Use the Appropriate Format

Make your résumé easy to scan. A few formatting tips based on what recruiters prefer are:

• Keep your résumé to one page, unless you have over 10 years of work experience. In that case, a two-page résumé is okay
• Set an inch margin on each side of the document
• Use popular fonts such as Times New Roman, Arial, Georgia or Helvetica, and stick to font sizes of 14 to 16 for headers and 10 to 12 for the body
• Choose 1.0 or 1.5 inch line spacing
• Set margins to 1 inch on all sides
• Save your résumé as a PDF or Docx, using your full name and sometimes the job title as the file name
• Adhere to the specific résumé format instructions that came with the call for application

3. Tailor Your Résumé for Each Role

While it’s common to want to include every experience, include only the experience relevant to the role you’re applying for and adjust your summaries, skills, certifications and other information on your résumé to fit that role.

4. Include Necessary Keywords

Since many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) , which use keyword algorithms to filter résumés, ensure you incorporate keywords in the job description. Such keywords will fit right into your work experience and skills highlight sections.

5. Use a Résumé Builder or Template

Consider using a professional résumé template, which only requires you to fill your information in the blank spaces. Human resources (HR) experts design these templates so you can trust them. Plus, they make it easier to build your résumé.

6. Proofread Your Résumé

Review your résumé for grammatical errors, typographical errors and inconsistencies to show recruiters how well you pay attention to details. You can ask someone to read through your resume before sending it over to a recruiter.

7. Keep to Instructions

If a job listing gives specific instructions on the format or content of your résumé, adhere to them to avoid sifting out at an early recruitment stage.

Using a résumé template makes it easier and faster to make a résumé recruiters expect from job applicants. Several résumé templates are available for download, but consider using only those from reliable résumé builders. Customize any of these résumé templates from Indeed and Canva .

Here’s a minimalist résumé template typed out for you.

Name Location Phone number Email address Summary

Work Experience Position Company name Location Description

Skills Skill Years of experience Skill Years of experience

Education School Degree Field of study Location

Your résumé goes ahead of you to help a recruiter determine whether or not they want to interview you to learn more about how your background and experience can fit into an open role and grow their organization. So, ensure you include the necessary information and build your résumé with the tips we’ve collated from HR professionals. They will help you nail your dream job, even if you’re starting out or resuming your career.

What do you put on a résumé if you lack experience?

Even as a fresh graduate or parent returning to the job market, you can draft a résumé that catches a recruiter’s attention by highlighting your transferable skills and completed projects. For example, a fresh graduate can include certifications, volunteer or community service, apprenticeship or internships and extracurricular activities such as club and sports participation.

A returning parent can include nontraditional experiences such as homeschooling and babysitting to demonstrate their leadership and problem-solving skills, amongst the several skills and experiences that come with parenting.

How do I write a résumé to pass an ATS?

You’ll need to study the job post carefully and customize your work experience and keywords to match the primary keywords in the job description . You can also use a résumé writing service to run a free review of your résumé or build a new one from scratch.

Should your résumé be concise or detailed?

Recruiters often spend less than a minute on a résumé since they usually have to review several applications. So, make sure your résumé is concise—comprehensive but brief. “Remember, the goal of your résumé is to land an interview, not to provide every detail about your experience. Once you’re in the conversation, you can share more information about your qualifications.” —Shannon Burkel

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First Off, What Is a Resume Anyway?

What is a cv vs. a resume, do you need a resume, how to create a resume, what skills should you include when creating a resume, what should you leave off a resume, how to create a targeted resume, are resume keywords important.

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Table of Contents

Whether you’re looking for an internship, your first post-college job, or even a part-time summer position, you need a resume. This indispensable document isn’t just an accounting of your skills and abilities. It also helps a recruiter or hiring manager understand why they should hire you.

If this is your first attempt to create a resume or your current resume isn’t getting the results you want, then this is the guide for you. We’re covering anything and everything you need to know about how to create a resume that gets results.

A resume is your professional autobiography. It’s a summary of your skills, abilities, and achievements and should help a hiring manager or recruiter understand why you’re the best person for the role.

The important word here is “summary.” While your resume doesn’t have to be a single page , it also doesn’t need to include every job, volunteer position, and award you’ve ever won. An extended version of your resume can go on your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio .

A CV is a curriculum vitae, which, ironically, means “a summary of someone’s skills, education, and experience.” However, “CV” means different things depending on where you’re job hunting.

In the U.S., a CV is used primarily in academics. It’s an accounting of your experience, education, research projects, grants you’ve won, classes you’ve taught … you get the idea. It’s still a summary but includes a lot more than a resume.

However, outside the U.S., CV generally means “your resume.” So, if you’re applying for a job with a company that doesn’t have a U.S. presence, don’t be surprised if the job posting asks for your CV.

Yes! Even if your work history consists of babysitting or part-time summer jobs, you need a resume. Why?

First, your resume is a living record that tracks where you’ve worked, the skills you’ve developed, and your professional accomplishments. It can help you identify everything you’re capable of and how far you’ve come professionally. And it’s a great tool to help you set your career goals and define a career plan .

Second, your resume is an excellent interview prep sheet. You know you’ll probably encounter common interview questions like, “ Tell me about yourself ” or “ What is your greatest strength ?” when you’re in an interview. Reviewing your resume before the interview can help you prepare answers with clear and specific examples that answer these questions and demonstrate why you’re perfect for the job.

>>MORE: Discover the tips and tricks for interview success in BCLP’s free Interview Success virtual job simulation.

Finally, luck, as they say, favors the prepared. You never know when the professional opportunity of a lifetime will come your way. As you’ll see, creating a resume takes time, and you don’t want to rush it. Having a resume on stand-by means you can apply for a job pretty much whenever you want.

Now that you know what a resume is and why you need one, how do you create a resume, especially if you’re starting from scratch?

Before we explain how to create your resume, understand this is not a one-and-done deal. We’ll get into it further, but what you’re really doing is creating a resume template. 

You’ll use this resume as a starting point when you apply for jobs. Every time you apply, you want to target your resume (and cover letter if you’re including one) to the specifics of the job description.

>>MORE: Read our detailed guide on how to write a resume . Want to go even deeper? Enroll in the free Forage Resume Writing Masterclass today.

Step 1. Gather Your Information

Start with a brain dump. In a blank document, list every job you’ve ever had, every club or activity you’re involved in, any volunteer work you’ve done, all the internships you’ve completed, and anything else you think might be relevant. If you want to include some of your job duties or what you did in a position you held in a club, go for it!

Step 2. Refine Your Information

After the initial brainstorming, you’ll spend some time refining the information.

For example, look at the jobs you’ve held and think of three to five things you were responsible for. Ideally, you’ll talk about what you accomplished and achieved , but if all you can come up with are duties, that’s totally fine for now!

>>MORE: Learn how to build and maintain your professional brand in Ashurst’s free virtual job simulation.

Do the same things for activities, clubs, internships, volunteering, and so on. Try to identify three to five things you did for each of them. If you can only come up with one or two — or even zero — that’s OK. You’ll have time to come up with a few duties, responsibilities, or accomplishments when you edit this draft.

Now, you’ve got a rough idea of your professional history, and you’ll use it to paint a picture of who you can be as an employee. This will help the hiring manager or recruiter understand what you’ll bring to the role and why they should hire you.

Don’t stress about making this version perfect, though. It’s still a rough draft, so be as messy as you want!

Step 3: Choose a Resume Type

Believe it or not, there are seven kinds of resumes! However, when it comes to applying for a job, you’ll use one of these three main formats:

• Chronological

Each of these resumes has pros and cons, and depending on your circumstances, you may favor one over the other. However, the chronological resume is the most widely used template.

Other less commonly used resume types are:

• Infographic

Step 4. Work From the Top Down

After selecting a template, you’ll create the first draft of your resume. On your first pass, you want to start at the top of the resume and work your way down, filling in the information as you go.

In the below example, we’re using a hybrid or chronological resume.

Contact Information

The very top of your resume is your contact information. This should include:

• Your full name and preferred name if you want
• Your email address
• Your cell phone number
• Your location (city and state is fine)
• A link to your LinkedIn profile
• A link to your digital portfolio (if you have one)

Forage Find

Make sure your voicemail is set up on your cell phone. While most recruiters will email or text you, some still prefer to call, and you don’t want to miss a message!

Summary of Qualifications

Just below your contact information is a summary of qualifications. This is a brief summary (no more than five sentences) of your skills, abilities, and accomplishments. Because this is “above the fold,” meaning it’s something someone reading your resume will likely notice first, it’s a great place for anything you want to call attention to.

This section is completely optional. Not everyone feels they have enough information for a solid qualifications summary, and some hiring managers and recruiters look at them after reviewing the rest of your resume.

The next section is skills , and, as the name implies, it’s a list of your professional skills.

When we say “list,” we don’t mean a laundry list of everything you can do. The skills section should only include skills that are relevant to the role. In most cases, that’s hard skills , but you can also include soft skills . And if you’re worried you don’t have any relevant skills, look to your transferable skills (the skills you master at one job that you can use in any job).

Because this is a list, you don’t necessarily need to explain how you use those skills on the job. You’ll do that in the work experience section. But this is a great place to include relevant skills that don’t fit anywhere else on your resume.

It’s also an optional section. If you don’t have enough room on your resume for everything else you have to include, you can delete this section. However, include some of these skills in the experience section.

>>MORE: Do you know the essential skills for a resume? Take our quiz and find out!

Work Experience

Many hiring managers and recruiters say the first thing they look at on any resume is the experience or job history section. Why? Not only are they interested in what you can do, they’re also interested in where you mastered those skills. This helps give your experience context and meaning.

For example, if you include your conflict-resolution skills , where did you develop them? Conflict resolution in a retail setting is very different from flexing those abilities as an account manager for a global account. The where is just as important as the what .

>>MORE: Identify and explore your professional must-haves in Discover Financial Services free Professional Skills virtual job simulation.

Include the name of the company you worked for, your job title, and the dates you worked there. You can also include that the job was remote . Under that information, include three to five accomplishments or job duties and responsibilities. Here’s an example:

Next up is the education section. If you’ve already graduated, list the name of your school, when you graduated, and what your degree is in. If you’re still in school, list the name of your school, what you’re studying, your expected degree, and when you anticipate graduating.

And if you had to leave school, that’s OK. You can and should still include that information. List where you went to school, the dates you were there, and what you studied:

Should you put education ahead of experience when creating your resume? There’s nothing that says the experience section has to come before education. For example, if you’re applying for an internship that requires a specific major or GPA, putting the education section above the experience section may be the best move.

Internships

The next section is internships, which is formatted the same way as your work history section. It’s crucial that your internship information is a separate section from your work experience section. Even if your internship is paid, employers don’t view them the same way.

And if you haven’t completed an internship, no worries! You can skip this section.

Everything Else

Next, you’ll include everything else you want to use to create your resume.

These additional sections can include volunteering, clubs you were involved in, research you conducted, awards and accolades you’ve received, and so on. You’ll also want to list the Forage virtual job simulations you’ve completed. You can put them under a “project,” “certification,” or “virtual job simulation” section. See our referencing policy for more details.

When you complete a Forage virtual job simulation, you’ll get a resume snippet that highlights your accomplishments that you can customize and include on your resume.

Step 5. Polish Your Resume

Congratulations, you’ve created a rough draft of your resume. Take a break and celebrate your accomplishment!

Now, it’s time to polish your resume.

In this pass, you want to drill down on the details. If you were in a club, were you in a leadership role? If so, what did you do? If you weren’t in a leadership role, did you give presentations or help organize activities?

As you think about what you did, you’re probably thinking about it in terms of duties. For example, as club president, you may have led meetings. But employers want to know not just what you did — they want to know what you accomplished.

How to Turn Duties Into Accomplishments

Generally used to answer behavioral interview questions , the STAR method is also a great framework to turn your job duties into measurable, quantifiable results when creating your resume.

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. In short, you describe a situation you faced, the task you had to complete, the actions you took, and the results. While you may not be as detailed as you would during an interview, you can still use the rest of the framework.

For example, instead of saying you managed your club’s social media presence, talk about how many of your TikToks went viral, how many followers you gained, and so on. Make sure to include metrics whenever possible. For example, instead of:

• Created social media posts for club

you can say,

• Designed and executed successful social media plan for club and increased follower count by 44%

Step 6. Format for Humans

Even when you upload your resume to an applicant tracking system (ATS), ultimately a human will review it. And that’s who you want to create your resume for.

Make it easy for the human reader to find the information they’re looking for on your resume with these tips.

Make Headers Stand Out

Start with the headings. In addition to clearly stating what each section is (Experience, Education, Internships), make each header jump out.

You don’t need to increase the font size, but consider making it bold or underlined (or both!), such as:

This formatting makes it easier for the reader to find whatever they’re looking for.

Use Bullets

Outside of the summary of qualifications, the rest of your resume should use bullet points. Why?

Bullet points create white space around the text, making it easier to read. A wall of text can be difficult to digest, especially when your resume is the 15th one the reader has looked at that day. Consider the following:

Ran multiple experiments to optimize user experience, speed, and conversion rates, then tested, iterated, and retested based on the results and user feedback collected from online surveys.

That’s a lot of information for one long sentence! And while it’s easy to read here, it’s not as easy to read when your resume consists of nothing but large blocks of text.

Now consider this:

• Conducted multiple experiments to optimize user experience and conversion rate
• Iterated and adjusted based on test results
• Improved speed and performance of website
• Collected and analyzed user feedback to improve user experience

See the difference? You’ve said the same thing across four bullet points, but they are much easier to read thanks to the white space and bullet points that break up the text.

Consider Font Type and Size

Another human-centric design element to consider is font type and size.

Stick with sans-serif fonts — those are the ones without the tails on the end.

Because so much of the application process is electronic these days, it’s more than likely that the person or people reviewing your resume do so on a screen, and it’s easier to read sans-serif fonts on a device.

You should also use an 11- or 12-point size font. This is the easiest size font for most people to read (with or without glasses). Anything less than 11, and you risk people being unable to read your resume comfortably — and potentially missing important information or giving up altogether.

Step 7: Proofread

And the absolute final step is proofreading!

You’ve spent a ton of time creating your resume, which means you’ve got blind spots. It happens to everyone (even this writer!). For instance, you may not realize you typed “Manger” instead of “Manager.” 

So, have someone you trust review your resume for typos and other errors. If you’re up for it, also ask them for feedback. Does your resume make sense? Are your bullet points clear?

If you’re not comfortable asking a friend or family member to help, ask a mentor or someone in the college career center. Fresh eyes will see the things you missed.

The best skills to include on your resume are ones relevant to the job.

Look over the job posting and see which skills the employer mentions. Some of them make it obvious, clearly stating which hard skills vs. soft skills they’re looking for. But sometimes, you have to read between the lines.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as an account manager, the job posting may say one of the duties is managing customer relationships. And that’s all you get! But it’s safe to assume you’ll have to use your conflict management and problem-solving skills , so include those on your resume.

And if you’re worried you don’t have the exact skills the employer is looking for, think again! Your transferable skills will likely fit the bill.

Here are some of the top skills you should consider including in your resume if you have them and they are relevant to the role:

• Thinking skills ( creative , logical , analytical )

>>MORE: Dive deep into the 12 best skills to put on a resume

Because space is at a premium on your resume, every inch counts! Here are the things you should absolutely leave off your resume (and why).

• An objective. Everyone knows what your objective is: to get a job. Skip this or include a summary of qualifications instead.
• Your references. You should always have three or four solid professional references ready to go, but leave them off your resume. Not only does that information take up valuable real estate, but, ideally, you shouldn’t have to hand over your references until you have at least a verbal job offer.
• Your marital status, age, gender, etc. Basically, don’t include anything that an employer can’t use to make an employment decision. There’s no rule that says you can’t include that information, but your resume and application may end up in the trash folder if it has any information the employer doesn’t want to see due to legal concerns.
• Your street address. A city and state are all you need these days. Even if you’re not applying for a remote job , including your street address could be risky. That’s personal information you may not want to share.

Common Resume Mistakes

In addition to not proofreading your resume or talking about your duties instead of accomplishments, four common resume mistakes to avoid are:

• Including unprofessional information. Your love of vintage teapots is an interesting factoid, but it doesn’t belong on your resume. The exception is if it’s relevant to the role (like if the job involves appraising vintage teapots).
• Using cliches. Cliches are cliches for a reason. But saying you’re a “people person” doesn’t do much to help the hiring manager understand why they should hire you.
• Including irrelevant or outdated information. While you may have a lot to be proud of, including information like being president of the honor society in high school when you’re applying for a job after college likely doesn’t belong on your resume.
• Having outdated contact information. Make sure your contact information is up to date. For example, if you have a school email address on your resume, once you graduate, you may lose access to it. Triple-check your contact information to ensure the recruiter can get in touch with you.

A targeted resume (or career-specific resume) is tailored to the job posting and the industry you want to work in.

Using your resume as a starting point and the job posting as a guide, tailor some of your bullet points to match the job description using industry-specific terminology. To be clear, you don’t want to copy what’s in the job posting, and you don’t want to lie. You want to tweak your resume to make it clear you’re the right fit for the role.

For example, if you’re applying for a project manager role, you’ll want to mention your project management skills. So, if the job description specifically mentions strong time management abilities, you’ll want to include a specific example of how your time management skills helped get the job done. And if the job posting requests a cover letter, use the same tips to customize it.

Will this take more time than simply uploading your resume as-is to the ATS? Yes, absolutely. But taking a little extra time to ensure your resume demonstrates that you’ve got the skills to succeed on the specific job you apply to will go a long way toward helping you land the role.

First, let’s talk about what resume keywords are.

Resume keywords are the “things” an employer is looking for. They can be hard skills, like knowing a certain kind of software or coding language, or soft skills, like collaboration or creative thinking. They can also be a certain type or length of experience.

When you read through a job posting, you’ll probably see specific things mentioned by name. It may be in the form of a bullet list or part of a sentence talking about the role. But some employers describe what they’re looking for without calling it out. The posting might say, “Must be able to overcome challenges.” Without specifically saying it, the employer is likely looking for someone with problem-solving skills.

So, when you’re tailoring your resume for this role, you want to include these keywords without forcing them in. How do you do that?

>>MORE: Overcome imposter syndrome and identify your strengths in Ashurst’s free virtual job simulation.

Start with the job description and see which skills are referenced the most. For example, if the job description mentions collaboration or working with other teams several times, working cross-functionally is likely a key part of the role.

But saying, “I work collaboratively and cross-functionally,” won’t help you land the job. Instead, you need to tailor your resume to explain how you work cross-functionally and what the outcome of that work was.

That said, you want to make sure you’re using the exact wording from the job posting. Why?

One of the biggest myths about an ATS is that if you don’t include enough of the “right” keywords in your resume, you’ll be instantly rejected. That’s not the case. However, recruiters often search for applicants in their system using specific keywords, and this is why you want to make it as easy as possible for the ATS to “find” those keywords. 

For example, if they’re looking for someone with project management experience, they’ll go into the ATS and search for “project management.” They may also search “project manager” or for certain project manager certifications. Recruiters are likely to use the same terminology in their ATS search as they do in the job descriptions, so making sure to include those keywords in your resume will ensure the ATS brings up yours during a search.

How Do You Create a Resume When You Don’t Have Work Experience?

You may not have paid work experience, but you probably have a ton of relevant, transferable experience!

Look over the job description and identify the skills the employer is looking for. That will help you figure out what to include on your resume. Then think about all the places you could have honed those skills. Being in a club or activity, completing a virtual job simulation , and volunteering are all great places to start.

Then, create resume bullet points that demonstrate how you’ve used your skills in a measurable, quantifiable way. Here’s an example from working on a group project for a class:

• Ensured each classmate had the information and tools they needed to complete their part of the project
• Set due dates and milestones to keep project on track
• Acted as liaison between classmates to find compromise on conflicting objectives

These bullets help put your project management, time management, and conflict resolution skills in perspective and demonstrate your ability to use them to your (and your employer’s) advantage.

>>There’s more to the story. Learn more about how to create a resume with no experience .

Creating a resume for an internship is similar to creating a resume for your job search or even when you have no paid work experience.

Focus on the internship job description, your skills, and where you got them. Tailor your bullets to those skills and include metrics that show what your impact was. You can include volunteering, projects, coursework, and virtual job simulations.

In a word, no, you shouldn’t have any artificial intelligence (AI) create your resume in its entirety.

But you can have AI create a rough draft for you.

Some people find it difficult to explain what they did or to describe their job duties as achievements. This is where AI can help. 

Give the AI some of your job titles and duties, and ask it to suggest metrics to go along with those duties. The AI will probably produce a few solid suggestions, but they are just that, suggestions (and probably include some hallucinations as well). Use them as a starting point to inspire you and help you think about your experiences differently.

>>MORE : What happens when you ask AI to whip up your resume? I asked ChatGPT to write mine and the results were surprising.

And there you have it — everything you need to know about creating a resume that gets results! Here are a few more resources to help you create your resume:

• Resume writing: Find a Nationally Certified Resume Writer to help you create your resume by searching the National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA) database . 
• Resume templates: Start creating your resume with free, customizable resume templates from Canva and Microsoft.
• Career coaching: Learn all about career coaching and how it can help with every aspect of your career and job search in What Is a Career Coach (and Do I Need One)?
• Job search and application: Check out The 85 Best Job Search Sites and Apps for the top job search sites, resume resources, and much more.

If you’d like to write your resume on your own, enroll in Forage’s resume writing masterclass. We’ll go over every essential tip and trick to help you create a resume that stands out from the rest of the pack.

And once you’ve mastered the art of resume writing, learn how to write a cover letter for any job, including an entry-level cover letter .

Maybe. If the job posting specifies you need to include your GPA on your resume , make space for it. But if it doesn’t and your GPA isn’t above 3.5 or you’ve been out of college for over three years, you can safely leave your GPA off your resume.

Ideally, a bullet point is no longer than one line or the page width. If your bullet point spills onto a second line, that’s fine. But you’re wasting space on a few words when you could use that line for a longer and more impactful bullet point. Ideally, you’ll edit the long bullet point down to a single line.

That depends. If you’re still in college or searching for your first job, your resume should go as far back as you want since you likely don’t have a long work history. So you can include the summer jobs you worked in high school, but only if you have enough space and they’re relevant to the job you’re looking for. That said, if you don’t have enough room for all of it, you can safely delete any jobs or activities from high school. And as you progress in your career, you generally don’t need to go back any farther than the last 10 years on your resume.

Believe it or not, there’s no strict rule for how long your resume should be . If yours is one page, that’s fine. And if it’s two pages long, that’s OK, too! As long as your information is relevant and succinct (meaning you aren’t filling it with fluff), you’re good! However, anything longer than two pages likely means you need to edit or use a CV instead.

As a rule, you should update your resume every time you have a significant “win.” So, getting a promotion, winning an award, or changing jobs means it’s time for a resume update. But outside of that, you should update your resume every six months. As mentioned earlier, you never know when an opportunity will present itself, and you want to be ready. Spending some time twice a year updating your resume allows you to reflect on what you’ve accomplished and be prepared for anything.

Spoiler alert: you don’t! There are a lot of myths and information about applicant tracking systems (ATS) , the biggest one being that ATSs screen out your resume if you don’t format it exactly right or don’t use the right keyword enough times. The reality is there’s not a way to beat the ATS because it’s not something to beat. It’s simply a giant filing cabinet that tracks your resume. That’s it!

Using a bright font or bold pattern will make your resume stand out, just not in the way you might want. It’s better to stick with a simple layout, fonts, and colors. After all, a human will read your resume, and you want to make it as easy as possible for them. To make your resume stand out the right way, create a targeted resume that’s tailored to the specifics of the job posting.

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How To Make a Resume With Examples and Guide

Building Your Resume — Get Started

What’s the purpose of a resume, what are the main sections of a resume, what are some red flags for hiring managers, steps for creating your own resume, 1. include your contact information, 2. write a compelling professional summary or objective, 3. detail your work experience, 4. highlight key skills, 5. provide your educational background, 6. explain awards and achievements, 7. organize information in reverse-chronological order, 8. incorporate keywords that align with the job description, 9. select a resume template, 10. include a cover letter, frequently asked questions about how to make a resume, jacob meade.

Navigating a job search requires persistence, an understanding of how hiring managers filter applications, and a well-written resume that showcases your skills and experience. Today’s job market is competitive, with growth slowing a bit from the fast-paced demand for labor during the past several years, although there’s healthy employment growth ahead.

Landing a job requires more than responding to help-wanted ads. Across industries, from hospitality to data science and health care, a strong and compelling resume is critical for gaining attention from hiring managers. Many recruiters and human resources professionals charged with filling empty positions will view hundreds — sometimes even thousands — of resumes. They typically spend six to 10 seconds scanning a single resume before determining whether a candidate is interview-worthy.

Another frustrating reality: In some cases, you’ll only hear back if a hiring manager moves your resume to the next round. Don’t expect a confirmation that your resume was received or even a note that you aren’t a fit for the position. Because of the influx of job seekers and competitive market, hiring managers focus their time on ushering the most viable candidates through their review process.

If you’re looking for a job, want to escalate on an already established career ladder, change industries and occupations, or land the first opportunity, there are some important resume-building strategies to consider so you can put your best foot forward and compete against other qualified candidates.

Ready to prepare a success-driven resume that will impress hiring managers and position yourself to glide through the hiring process? This guide provides 10 practical steps to building a resume that will help you land your next job and grow a rewarding career. Let’s get started.

1. Include your contact information 2. Write an impactful professional summary or objective 3. Detail your work experience 4. Highlight relevant skills 5. Provide your educational background and credentials 6. Explain awards and achievements 7. Organize information in reverse-chronological order 8. Incorporate keywords that align with the job description 9. Select a resume template 10. Include a cover letter

When you finish your resume, don’t forget to write a cover letter. Download one of our free cover letter templates and get started with our cover letter builder .

Much like sending a LinkedIn request to connect with a business professional you’d like to follow or add to your network, your resume is the “ping” — a notification of your interest in an available job. Submitting your resume does not guarantee it will earn more than 10 seconds of time with a hiring manager or even a response confirming the resume landed safely in their system.

Because your resume is a crucial first impression maker, selecting the best resume format , the right words and effectively communicating your experience is crucial. Understanding these resume basics and what to put on your resume will prepare you to build a resume that will advance you in the hiring process.

Anyone can express interest in a job opening, but that doesn’t mean they have the appropriate skills or training. A resume lets an employer know you’re qualified for a position, either through your educational history, work experience, or a combination of the two. You can also share volunteer work, internships, and externships that illustrate why you’re a great fit for the position you’re seeking.

For example, if you’re applying for a position as an administrative assistant but lack professional experience, mention roles you’ve played in volunteer organizations, such as serving as the secretary or treasurer of a school club or local nonprofit.

Or, if you seek a position at a day care and want to be a teacher’s aide but haven’t worked in an educational environment, note an American Red Cross CPR class you successfully completed, a summer nanny gig during which you cared for young children, working at a camp, or assisting with an after-school club at an elementary school.

Think outside the box and don’t feel limited by the traditional resume sections if you lack work experience. By including valuable volunteer and internship experiences, you show future employers an eagerness to learn and succeed.

While writing your resume, whether it’s the first one or an update to include the latest experience in a long career, think of it as your social media profile for hiring managers. They will skim the document to determine if they want to connect with you.

Red flags such as typos may prevent you from landing an interview, even if you’re well qualified. Bland statements about your work experience will not earn a second look from the professional reviewing your resume. The same goes for skills that do not align with the job description or a lack of training or credentials to manage the job successfully.

The purpose of a resume is to show why you are the ideal candidate for the job with relevant experience and skills, along with metrics that demonstrate how you bring value to an organization.

Your resume should include six key sections, and we will go into detail about each of these, plus additional steps in this guide:

1. Contact information 2. Professional profile or objective 3. Work experience 4. Education and credentials 5. Key skills 6. Awards and achievements (optional)

While a basic step, your resume should include your name, correct address, phone number, email, and link to a portfolio or LinkedIn profile if relevant. You’d be surprised how often an overlooked typo in a phone number or email results in never hearing back from the employer. How can a hiring manager get in touch if they do not have your accurate contact information?

If you are in the early stages of your career and lack professional experience, your resume will also include a professional summary or objective. With a goal-focused objective, you express your enthusiasm for succeeding in your line of work. A professional summary is like an elevator speech that sums up your expertise and accomplishments in just a few sentences.

Back up your summary by listing key skills, employment history, and educational background. If this is your first job, focus on skills, training, or volunteer work instead. You can also list freelance gigs when relevant. For example, a five-star rating at a contract position delivering groceries shows you have strong customer service skills.

A concise, bulleted key skills list shares relevant expertise that aligns with the job description. If you’re applying for a data scientist position, your skills might include data visualization or structured query language (SQL). Tailor qualifications to the position. Even if you are creating a general resume to use for multiple applications, you can use the document as a base and adapt it to include relevant keywords and skills.

Hiring managers skim your resume quickly in search of obvious red flags. Grammatical errors and typos, as well as slang, can immediately land you on the rejection list. Never include profanity in any business document. Also, avoid statements that indicate a potential for instability, such as mentioning you’ve had 20 jobs in the last five years. Keep personal info, such as that you have kids or are married, off your resume, and don’t include a photo unless you’re applying for a modeling job.

Inaccurate information can also cost you a position. Be honest and completely transparent about your education, credentials, technical skills , soft skills that employers love , and work experience. Don’t pretend you have a degree that doesn’t exist, and be truthful about certifications. Even if no one calls to verify your information, lying on a resume will catch up with you and cause serious reputational damage.

There are a range of resume formats, including functional , combination , and targeted styles such as Applicant Tracking System (ATS) friendly resumes and modern resume templates . Your education, employment history, and career goals should influence which type you choose.

For example, if you are a creative director, a modern resume speaks to your industry and allows you to showcase your design expertise. However, if you are an accountant, select a highly professional executive resume template .

Job hunters who want a classic resume should choose a chronological format , while applicants with more education than experience can benefit from a functional template . A combination resume lists skills, as well as chronological work experience, and a targeted resume focuses on qualifications that match a specific job listing.

The steps for creating a resume are generally the same, regardless of which format is appropriate given your education and experience. We’ve broken them down in our step-by-step instructions below. It helps to start with a resume outline before choosing a template so you can organize the information, edit it, and prepare the content to input into a template if you choose to use one.

A recruiter shouldn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt to learn your identity. Include your contact information at the top of your resume, including your name, phone number, email address, physical address, and links to a professional portfolio, website, or LinkedIn portfolio, if applicable. Including your mailing address is important because while communications are primarily digital, some employers will prefer to hire local candidates to expedite filling a position and eliminate moving expenses.

Make your name stand out in bold text, but maintain the same font for a consistent and clean look. Proofread your entire resume carefully, but pay special attention to your contact information. Typos will prevent hiring managers from successfully contacting you.

Your contact information may look something like this:

Skyler Thompson 

Minneapolis, MN 12345 | (123) 456-7890 | [email protected]

Do not include your date of birth or Social Security number on your resume. Also, avoid sending a headshot unless you are a professional model. Be wary of employers who request a photograph. This could indicate gender, age, racial, or cultural bias. (Professional hiring managers working for reputable organizations will not ask for your picture.)

Don’t use a nickname, and make sure your email address is professional. Some hiring managers may reject your application if you use an email address like [email protected] , even if you would have otherwise been contacted for an interview. Potential employers want to know you can present yourself professionally.

In a few succinct sentences, the summary or objective section of your resume should display your expertise and experience, proving why you are the best candidate for the job. Some hiring managers don’t dedicate more than 10 seconds to your resume, let alone spend time reviewing the entire document. The summary is a snapshot that gives anyone evaluating your resume the Cliff’s Notes version of your career and experience.

When writing your professional summary, use strong action verbs and clear language, avoiding complex sentence structure and clunky wording. Remember, this section is basically the handshake of your resume. You have a small space and a minute of the reader’s attention span to sell your capabilities as the ideal fit for the role. Save details and metrics for the professional experience section of your resume.

While it’s good to call out especially attractive key skills in your resume summary, you can go into further detail in a bulleted key skills section. So, be selective. Ask yourself: Does this skill tell a future employer you are a different and better candidate than the rest? Also, when considering which skills to work into your resume profile, be strategic and avoid packing experience or skills into the summary that are not mentioned in the job description.

Some job seekers want to know if they should use an objective in their resume or a professional summary. If you have career experience, a resume summary is more effective because your profile will illustrate the value you can bring to an organization. However, if you have more training than work experience, an objective statement will highlight marketable skills and qualifications, along with stating your career goals. For instance, an objective might display an internship in a research lab or completion of graduate coursework, indicating a dedication to continuing education.

Example of a brief objective statement:

Retailer manager with a track record for five-star customer service reviews and sales performance, seeking a leadership position to leverage experience guiding a team of associates.

A resume summary works best when you have relevant experience to summarize. If you’re a teacher seeking a new position, you can mention you’ve taught for 17 years at an elementary school and hold a certificate in special education training. Include management experience at a local health care clinic if you want a front desk position at a hospital , or share how your skills as a sales manager boosted company revenue by 12% if you’re seeking a new commission-based job.

Compelling resume summary example:

Licensed real estate professional and certified REALTOR specializing in commercial real estate transactions and investment properties with an average listing price of $5 million. Deep knowledge of jumbo loans and quality track record for successful portfolio management. Delivers accurate, insightful real estate market analyses to meet the demands of diverse buyers.

Remember to only choose a statement or objective for your resume. Including both can make your resume look cluttered and unprofessional.

Add a tagline. What’s your brand? Much like slogans and taglines for everyday products, a trend in resume writing is to include a tagline that can consist of a handful of words positioned above your resume summary or objective. Taglines can showcase your impact or approach to business. They can center on your philosophy or approach, include a testimonial quote from an employer, or be an inspirational quote from a thought leader that you consider a cornerstone. The point of a tagline is to illustrate your values — and the value you can bring to an employer.

Work experience lets a hiring manager know you have the skills needed to do the job. There are several different ways you can approach work experience on your resume:

• List all positions in chronological order, beginning with your current or most recent position and working backward.
• Only list relevant jobs, such as positions involving children or education if you’re applying for a day care manager position or sales jobs if you want a marketing position.
• Include volunteer work, internships, and externships in the format usually reserved for employment history if this is your first job.

Professional Experience Example

Data Scientist, Financial Data Consulting Inc., San Antonio, TX April 2016 – Present

• Deliver data science consulting services to enterprise clients within the financial sector valued at $20M-$35M, develop algorithms and analytical models using SAS, R, and Hadoop, and educate technical and non-technical audiences on findings and data trends
• Collaborate cross-functionally with data analytics, finance, and business intelligence departments to analyze complex financial data sets and improve forecasting methodologies for client businesses
• Utilize machine learning techniques to enhance financial reporting and data visualization

Data Scientist, Gamma Finance, Dallas, TX July 2012 – March 2016

• Analyzed datasets and communicated insights to business owners to assist with data-driven decision making
• Developed dashboards and reports that communicate a story and provide visualization of data in a way that can be best utilized by internal customers
• Evaluated business processes and recommend data science solutions to improve efficiency

Adding all of your jobs is common if you use a chronological format for your resume. However, this is not ideal if you’ve had numerous gaps in your employment, even those due to unexpected circumstances such as illness or a spouse’s military relocation. If you have an extensive work history with multiple job changes, focus on including the positions that align with the job description.

For example, if you’ve served as an executive in a financial institution for 30 years, you do not need to include college internships, even if they were prestigious. And there is no need to add the fast-food job you held while paying for school. Again, always consider the job description, key skills required, and your related value when creating a resume.

Also, keep in mind your resume experience section will need to be adapted for each application if the position descriptions are considerably different. Focusing on relevant work experience works well in a targeted resume and will make you look more stable. Plus, it shows you have the marketable skills a future employer is looking for in candidates and that you read and understand the job responsibilities and employers’ expectations.

Back up work experience statements with data, metrics, and other measurables whenever possible. It’s easy to make a generic statement about an accomplishment, such as “Delivered presentations at a national conference.” But how impactful is this information? (Hiring managers will tell you it’s not very.) Instead, quantify your success by writing something like, “Delivered a three-part seminar series at a national conference, earning 5-star ratings from attendees and media exposure in the industry trade magazine.”

When you write statements about your experience, always ask yourself: How much? How many? What was the measurable outcome? How did I drive value? Remember, employers are making a human capital investment when they recruit new team members. Like any “buying decision,” you want to go into the situation with confidence. You can give future employers that level of confidence by including as many numbers and metrics as possible in your resume.

Always avoid first-person statements. Instead, start each experience statement with a strong action verb. First-person language in a resume is very “me” focused, and the document should demonstrate your interest in a future employer’s interests. Starting sentences with strong action verbs is basically a way to power up your resume and separate it from the flood of other applicants who might not have the same strong command over their content.

Remember, you can also emphasize achievements in your resume’s professional experience section, such as an employee of the year award or a certificate for managing the top-earning sales team that beat a company record by 17%.

These examples illustrate quantifying your experience.

“Leveraged predictive analytics to forecast company sales with 96% accuracy.”

“I successfully used predictive analytics for sales predictions.”

Incorporate powerful action verbs into your experience section

Add energy and purpose to your resume by starting each sentence of your professional experience section with a meaningful action verb, avoiding overused words like managed and led and weak verbs like used or completed. These generic verbs lack luster and are easily glossed over, plus they indicate mediocrity because they are typical. Your resume must stand out. Action verbs vary based on your industry and the position you are seeking, but here are some effective power words to start sentences in your work experience section.

A concise, bulleted key skills section formatted as a sidebar or graphic box allows hiring managers to quickly scan your capabilities to see if they align with the job description. This is essentially the short-list companion to your work experience section, but it’s an important part of a resume. A key skills list offers an opportunity to incorporate keywords that will pass through resume ATS so you can advance to the next step in the hiring process.

When writing your key skills list, include hard skills that demonstrate specific capabilities and knowledge. By doing so, you will show potential employers that you have the expertise and training required to fulfill the position. Also include some applicable soft skills, though focus mostly on hard skills because a resume with only the former will not capture the attention of ATS. Consider which soft skills are important for successfully executing the desired role.

For instance, if you are applying for a data science position, even though this is a highly technical job, you still need to collaborate with team members in other divisions and possibly interface with a consumer audience.

Following are some examples of key skills to include in resumes when applying for positions in real estate, data engineer, warehouse worker, and host/hostess. Select a half-dozen of your strongest skills, avoiding a laundry list approach that can look overplayed.

Real Estate Key Skills Example

• Architectural knowledge
• Closing techniques
• Contract law
• Contract negotiation
• Digital marketing
• Federal and local real estate law
• Home valuation
• Lead generation
• Market analysis
• Multiple listing service (MLS) systems
• Portfolio management
• Property appraisal
• Property management
• Real estate investing
• Sales forecasting
• Zoning regulations

Data Engineer Key Skills Example

• Data architecture design
• Data modeling
• Data pipeline maintenance
• Database management
• Exact, transform, and load Exact Transform Load (ETL) processes
• Machine learning (ML)
• Microsoft Azure
• Programming languages (Python, SQL, Java)
• Project management
• Query optimization
• Real-time data processing
• System administration
• Task and process automation

Warehouse Worker Key Skills Example

• Assembly lines
• Computer literacy
• Equipment maintenance
• Filling orders
• Forklift operation
• Freight handling
• Heavy machinery operation
• Inventory software
• Label creation
• Loading/unloading
• Order picking and processing
• Packaging and labeling
• Pallet jack operation
• Product packing
• Quality control
• Safety management
• Shipping and receiving

Host/Hostess Key Skills Example

• Cash till reconciliation
• Conflict and complaint resolution
• Customer relations and satisfaction
• Customer relationship management (CRM) databases
• Facilitating guest turnover
• Point-of-sale (POS) systems
• Rapid solution-finding
• Reservations management
• Restaurant operations support
• Task prioritization
• Team collaboration
• Time management
• Wait time estimates
• Wait-list management
• Waitstaff support

Many employers prefer candidates with some type of formal training, even if you don’t have a college degree. List all of your relevant education on your resume, from the bachelor’s degree you received 10 years ago to the special certifications earned throughout your career or education. Also include internships and externships, especially if you haven’t had much work experience in your field.

Always list your highest degree first, such as a doctorate or master’s degree, followed by other degrees, credentials, and certifications . If you are currently enrolled in a program you have not yet completed, include this on your resume. You will include start and graduate dates, so potential employers will recognize you are still finishing the program.

Here is an example of an education and certifications resume section that is organized and will give hiring managers the information they want and need.

Master of Science (M.S.), Analytics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA August 2010 – May 2012

Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Computer Science, Boston College, Boston, MA August 2010 – May 2012

Can you prove your abilities have been tested and you succeed in challenging environments? Awards and achievements show potential employers how you bring value to an organization and your stand-out capabilities. If you have earned an award for customer service, this recognition will not only demonstrate your ability to retain clients but also that you resolve issues and mediate conflict. If you were recognized as the top sales agent of the year, the award will exhibit how you strive for excellence and contribute to a company’s bottom line in a tangible way.

How to list academic awards on your resume

• Dean’s list, Columbia University, Awarded 2017-2021
• Summa Cum Laude, Columbia University, Awarded 2021
• University English Award, Columbia University, Awarded 2020

How to list industry awards on your resume

• Innovative Design Award, San Francisco Robotics Conference, Awarded 2020
• Technology Innovation Award, Excelsior Technologies, Awarded 2019
• Robotics Research Grant, University of San Francisco, Awarded 2018

Stand-alone awards section or include with professional experience?

You can incorporate awards and achievements in the professional experience section of your resume, which is especially helpful for quantifying statements such as “Surpassed sales goals” or “Delivered impeccable customer service.” If achievements are numerous and especially prestigious, a stand-alone awards and achievements section will call attention to the distinguished recognition. A separate awards section is also appropriate for someone with less work experience who would benefit from displaying their educational background, credentials, and awards.

Reverse chronological format is ideal for most resumes. This approach ensures that your most recent and relevant experience is featured at the top of your document. Even at the entry level, a reverse chronological order resume will give hiring managers a more organized view of your experience, education, key skills, and additional credentials or awards.

On the other hand, chronological-order resumes illuminate your career progression and give hiring managers a picture of how you have grown, accomplished milestones, and gained increased levels of responsibility and leadership over the years.

In most cases, your current job will be the most attractive to potential employers and demonstrate your rise as a professional. For this reason, we generally recommend a reverse-chronological resume format. Doctors and academics, however, usually prepare a curriculum vitae (CV) in addition to a resume, and CVs are formatted in chronological order, listing published studies, appointments, and presentations in the order in which they were accomplished.

Since we’re focused on resumes, go in with the idea that you’ll build a document that positions your most recent experiences first.

Most organizations rely on some form of ATS to identify qualified candidates for job openings. To get your resume through the initial screening process and into the hiring manager’s hands, incorporate keywords from the job description directly into your profile, professional experience, and skills sections.

Not all employers use ATS for filtering resumes, but including keywords is still important because it allows those reviewing your resume to quickly scan your capabilities to determine if you fit the position. We offer some helpful guidance on keywords commonly used in a wide range of resumes with these examples as a tool to fuel your resume-building efforts.

Warning: While including keywords is important, lifting entire phrases word for word from a job description will show hiring managers that you are fabricating a resume that probably doesn’t reflect your actual experience and skills. Never copy/paste, and remember that complete transparency is of utmost importance when creating a resume that will land you the job you’re seeking.

Recruit a proofreader

A single typo may result in a rejection letter, so proofread your resume before you submit it. Consider having a second set of eyes look at your resume as well. Sometimes we skim over our mistakes or get too close to the information, and having an outside reader will help you spot content that needs clarification. Also, double-check your contact information, otherwise you could miss out on an interview offer because a hiring manager cannot reach you.

Where to start? If you have researched resume templates and are struggling to figure out which design is the best given your industry, experience, and career goals, you are certainly not alone. What is the best resume template for you? Here are some considerations to factor into your resume template decision as you make a choice.

• Changing industries or occupations
• Education vs. work history
• Sought-after employer brand vibe

When you apply for a job, include a cover letter with your resume. This is an optional step, but an introductory letter may help you land the job you want. In fact, some hiring managers automatically reject resumes unaccompanied by cover letters.

A cover letter builder will guide you as you create an introduction that showcases your personality and explains the experiences and skills listed in your resume. You can highlight achievements, mention how you learned about a position, and discuss why you feel you’re a qualified candidate. This is a good time to name-drop by saying sales manager Jennifer McMann told you about the open position or Professor Raymond, a long-time friend of the company’s owner, referred you because you seemed like a shoo-in for the role.

Now, let’s answer the most common questions about how to make a resume.

How do I create a resume? -

Building a successful resume starts with gathering information about your accomplishments, experience, education, and skills. It’s a good idea to create a file and review your career milestones so you can cherry-pick the most impressive and relevant experiences that align with the job description. A resume has several key components essential for gaining the attention of hiring managers, who usually have just seconds to scan your resume. 

Those key resume sections include contact information, relevant skills, work experience, educational background and credentials, and awards and achievements as an optional separate section if not incorporated into your experience section. Create a successful resume by viewing examples from your industry and selecting an effective template.

What are the seven steps to writing a resume? -

This guide offers 10 steps to successful resume writing because, beyond the resume, we offer guidance on creating a cover letter and the importance of including keywords in your document. However, many people ask what the steps are to writing a resume . We suggest these: choose a template, include contact information, write a profile, provide educational background, share recent professional experience, detail key skills, and optional sections such as awards.

How far back should a resume go? -

The answer depends on your career track and work experience. If we’re counting years, generally, up to 15 years of work experience is appropriate to include on your resume. However, this rule of thumb is loose because you might have held three positions with long tenure, such as 10 years at an organization followed by 15 years somewhere else, and five in your current role.

In this case, you can document your acceleration in your industry by including work experience entries for each organization. Ideally, aim to keep your resume to one page . For experienced job seekers, this will definitely require some paring down of experience and prioritizing the most relevant and recent work experiences that align with the job description and will help you stand out as the perfect candidate for the role.

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Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How to Build a Resume Learn More
• Basic Resume Examples and Templates Learn More
• How Many Jobs Should You List on a Resume? Learn More
• How to Include Personal and Academic Projects on Your Resume Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Land Your Dream Job Learn More
• How to Organize Your Job Search Learn More
• How to Include References in Your Job Search Learn More
• The Best Questions to Ask in a Job Interview Learn More

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Switching Careers? Here’s How to Write a Strong Resume.

• Benjamin Laker,
• Vijay Pereira,
• Abhishek Behl,
• Zaheer Khan

Start with a personal statement.

When you’re switching career paths, there’s one essential thing you need to focus on: updating your resume. Crafting a smart resume is key to showing your potential employer why you wish to make a change. While there’s no one right format to write a resume, here are some tips you can follow:

• Begin the resume with a personal statement. This is a short description about who you are, your reasons for changing your career, your new goals, how your previous experience can be transferred to the new industry, and why you’re perfect for the job.
• Next, instead of highlighting your work experience first, showcase the skills you’ve learned throughout your career. That’s because when changing careers, the hiring managers reviewing your application may not always be familiar with the roles and responsibilities of a different industry.
• Below your skills, you can include a more traditional description of your relevant work history. You don’t need to include every job you’ve ever had, especially if you’ve held a number of positions that don’t highlight any essential skills required for this role.
• Finally, end with a chronological list of your educational qualifications. You can also include details about any certifications or courses that you may be undertaking that may be relevant to the position you’re interested in.

Switching career paths and trying something completely new can open you up to exciting opportunities, help you learn new things, and even earn you more money. But it’s not always easy — especially if you’re looking to move into an entirely different field. Apart from doing your research and unearthing opportunities, there’s one essential thing you need to focus on before you make the leap: updating your resume.

• Benjamin Laker is a professor of leadership at Henley Business School, University of Reading. Follow him on Twitter .
• Vijay Pereira is a professor of strategic and international human capital management at NEOMA Business School.
• AB Abhishek Behl is an assistant professor of information management at the Management Development Institute Gurgaon.
• ZK Zaheer Khan is a professor in strategy and international business at the University of Aberdeen.  

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How to Create the Perfect Resume to Land a Remote Job

Remote jobs are still around. Can your resume help you land one?

For every executive who’s proposing a return to the office in order to get workers to voluntarily leave their bloated tech giant, there’s another startup founder who needs to offer great perks in order to pull in the best talent. Fully remote work is popular with employees, and so it’s here to stay.

But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to land a remote position. It’s a tough job market right now, and you may need to apply for many positions in order to land the perfect one for you. It all starts with your resume: You’ll need to know how to craft a resume that positions you specifically for a remote-first job.

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Highlight Your Remote Work Experience

Let’s start with the obvious. If you have done previous remote work, you’ll want to make sure that’s clear on your resume. Any employer will prefer someone with experience, and this applies to remote experience just as much as experience with a specific software or job responsibility.

Add “remote” in parentheses after the physical location when listing previous jobs, or just replace the entire location with the term.

Don’t have any remote positions in your past? Consider including any major projects that you worked on entirely remotely , whether they were stand-alone gigs or as a part of your in-office nine-to-five.

If you want to highlight your versatility, consider creating a two sections in your resume; One for your in-office and one for your remote work. This might prove the best solution for anyone searching for a hybrid position.

Highlight Your Remote-Friendly Skillset

This is the biggest way you can prove your Wi-Fi-powered chops to your potential employers. Living an entirely remote work life takes a certain type of person with a certain set of skills. You just have to prove that you have those skills.

Your resume can show off these skills within the descriptive section of each of your entries for previous jobs. You’ll also want to highlight them in job interviews when you get there. Here are the skills that remote-friendly workplaces will be looking for.

Independence and self-motivation

The biggest skill needed for remote work is the ability to be a self-starter. You won’t have a team around the office to keep you in the swing of things, so you’ll need to be the sort of person who can sit down and lock in.

Highlight any projects that you took the lead on , or any major projects that you owned from start to finish . Did you come up with any ideas that panned out and helped the entire team? Make sure they’re mentioned.

These examples can be remote, but don’t have to be — any independent projects that you accomplished will prove that you have the mindset for remote work, even if they weren’t remote themselves.

Good communicator

Your independence won’t do much good if you can’t work with a team, however. When you’re working remotely, communication becomes even more important for allowing your team members to know what you’re up to. There’s no water cooler to catch up with your team around, so you’ll have to Slack them constantly to stay in touch.

To show this skill on your resume, make sure to note any projects that required frequent communication. Bonus points if you can find a way to mention a time you were praised for communication specifically.

Problem solver

Working remotely means you can’t always flag someone down to ask a quick question. If time zones are a factor, you may even need to wait until the next day for a response to a simple problem. You can show off your problem-solving ability on your resume by highlighting both the problem and the solution you came up with.

Project manager

In practice, self-motivation results in better project management. Find some examples from your past jobs that will prove you can handle the entire process, from ideation to cost and time estimations to addressing unforeseen challenges as they come up. You might not be able to fit all of that onto your resume, but you can briefly touch on it — you can always follow up during an interview.

Time tracker

Most remote jobs don’t come with timecards, thankfully, so you’ll be managing your own time. This is a key part of project management, and something that remote managers might be suspicious of. Fairly or not, many executives suspect that remote workers aren’t working a full day.

To address this, consider if there’s a simple way to note in your resume that you met all your deadlines or kept all your projects under budget.

Sending Out Your Resume

Actually getting your resume in the hands of the right person is harder than ever, thanks to a flagging job market. The US actually overestimated the number of jobs that were added to the economy between March 2023 and March 2024, missing about 818,000 jobs — so we’ve had a bad job market for a lot longer than you might think.

In short, competition is tough right now. How can your resume stand out?

You’ll have to stay in it for the long haul, according to many jobseekers who are saying they needed to apply to hundreds or even thousands of positions in order to land one job.

The same route that has worked for the last decade is still a good bet: Use job boards and websites, and set up Google alerts for the exact positions that are a fit for your skill and history. You may have better luck if you don’t apply directly through a job board, however, and instead look up the official website of the business that you find on the listing and apply through it.

Creative solutions can give you a foot up as well, although they’re more difficult to come up with. One job-seeker even found success by looking up the physical locations of several hundred different recruitment companies and mailing their resume to them.

Following Up With Interviews and Beyond

Once your resume is ship-shape, you’ll need to keep that momentum going with your job interview. Check out our guide to the top 39 most common job interview questions , and have some questions ready to ask your interviewer, as well.

Once it’s all over, you may want to wait two days and then send a follow-up email just to say thank you. We’ve created a few templates for what that might look like, too.

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