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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.

How to Write a Resume for Today’s Job Market

To get more job interviews, you must create a resume that is optimized for applicant tracking systems (ATS). Learn how in this step-by-step guide.

Customers Interviewed by:

Learning how to write a resume is a crucial skill for job seekers—it’s how you market yourself to potential employers.

A well-crafted resume summarizes your professional experience, skills, and achievements. It should grab the hiring manager’s attention and show them them why:

• You’re the perfect match for the job.
• The skills you have will make the company money.
• You’re qualified to solve the company’s problems.
• You’ll be worth your salary.
• Your accomplishments can be measured and verified.

But in today’s job market, it’s not enough to write an effective resume. You must also tailor each one to the job you’re applying for. Why? Because most companies today use applicant tracking systems, or ATS, to sort and filter the large volume of resumes they receive.

If you’re resume doesn’t contain the specific keywords hiring managers are searching for, it won’t be found—even if you’re qualified for the job!

In this guide, you’ll learn how to write a resume that stands out in today’s job market. We’ll show you how to present yourself as the ideal candidate, highlight the skills that will benefit potential employers, and ensure your resume is compatible with ATS.

How to write a resume that gets interviews

Here’s a quick overview of the basic steps for writing a professional resume. Follow these steps to make your resume clear, concise, and appealing.

Gather all relevant data about your work experience, skills, achievements, and education.

Select a format that’s right for you, whether it’s chronological, functional, or hybrid., clearly list your name, phone number, email, and key social media profiles., create a compelling headline that includes the job title you’re applying for., write a brief statement that summarizes your key achievements and value you offer., list the skills you have that align closely with the job requirements., detail your past job roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments., include your educational degrees, certifications, and relevant training., showcase any relevant honors, awards, and volunteer work., tailor your resume by focusing on the experiences and skills that are most relevant to the job..

Before you start working on your resume, remember that your resume is not your biography. You’re not telling the story of your life. Instead, your resume should be a targeted document meant to showcase the skills and experiences that match the job you want .

This means that if something is not relevant to your targeted job, leave it out . With this in mind, let’s start building your resume!

1. Gather your essential information before you start

Before diving into the actual resume writing, it’s crucial to collect all the necessary information you’ll need. This preparatory step ensures that the resume writing process is smooth and that you don’t miss any important details.

• Significant achievements : List standout accomplishments from previous roles that demonstrate your contributions and successes.
• Skills : Compile a list of your soft, hard, and technical skills that align with those required by the job you’re targeting.
• Employment history : Provide detailed information about past employers, including their names, your dates of employment, locations, job titles, and a clear description of your duties.
• Education : Document your academic qualifications like college degrees, certifications, or licenses that prove your expertise in relevant fields.
• Volunteer work : Include any voluntary engagements where you developed skills pertinent to the job you are seeking.
• Awards and honors : Mention any notable recognitions you’ve received that underscore your exceptional talents and commitment.

When you gather your information, include everything you can think of. You can cut information that’s not relevant to a specific job later.

2. Choose a resume format that’s right for you

A  resume format  is the way you organize, or lay out, your information. There is no one-size fits all resume format. Instead, there are three different types of formats to choose from – chronological, functional, and hybrid. Which format you choose depends on your particular situation.

The chronological resume format

This is the most traditional resume format, especially for job seekers with lots of relevant experience.

The chronological resume format lists your work history in reverse chronological order , with your most recent jobs listed first. Your skills and education should come after your work history in this format.

• Have a strong work history showing steady career growth without significant employment gaps.
• Are staying in the same field and want to highlight your experience and advancements within that field.
• Want to highlight career progression and professional achievements over time.

The functional resume format

This resume format focuses on your skills rather than your work history. It helps you downplay your lack of experience in a particular field.

In this format, your skills and education should be emphasized over your work history.

• Are changing careers and want to emphasize transferable skills over past job titles.
• Have gaps in employment and want to focus on skills rather than work experience.
• Are new to the workforce and want to highlight skills, coursework, and internships.

NOTE : Generally speaking, we don’t recommend the functional resume format . Recruiters want to see some kind of work history. Instead of the functional format, try the next resume format—the hybrid.

The hybrid resume format

A hybrid resume is a combination of the chronological resume and the functional resume. It showcases both your work history and your skills.

In this format, your skills comes before your work history. But your work history is still the heart of your resume, just like in the chronological format.

• Have lots of skills that are relevant to the job you are targeting.
• Are climbing the career ladder within the same field.
• Are changing roles within the same industry and want to highlight your relevant skills.

We like the hybrid resume  because it offers the best of both worlds, combining the strengths of the chronological and the functional resume formats.

3. Put your contact information at the top of your resume

This section might appear simple, but it’s important. If hiring managers can’t contact you, you won’t get an interview.

• Phone number
• Location (City, State, Zip Code)
• Email Address
• LinkedIn profile URL

It’s surprising how often job seekers forget a crucial piece of contact information. Double-check to make sure it’s as easy as possible for recruiters to contact you for a job interview.

Here’s an example:

Contact information do’s and don’ts

• Include your full name, including your middle initial.
• Include a link to your professional website or online portfolio.
• Create a strong LinkedIn profile and be sure to include the URL on your resume.
• Don’t write your full address; only your city, state, and zip code.
• Don’t include a work phone number; only your personal number.
• Don’t add a photo of yourself . This can lead to bias or discrimination.

4. Create a compelling resume headline

Your resume headline comes right after your contact information. At the very least, your headline should clearly identify the title of the job you’re applying for.

Is putting the job title in the headline necessary? Yes! “Think of your resume as a maze,” says resume expert Laura DeCarlo . “It has to have a visible entrance or no one would ever get started.” Without a headline, “the prospective employer won’t know for which position you are applying.”

Your headline can also include years of experience and key qualifications. Here’s an example:

Resume headline do’s and don’ts

• Tailor your headline to each job you apply for.
• Keep your headline under ten words to make sure it packs a punch.
• Position yourself as an expert in your field.
• Don’t use clichés such as “hard worker” or “team player.” Be specific.
• Don’t be too salesy. Focus on giving a snapshot of your skills and experience.
• Don’t make your headline too long. Cut to the chase.

5. Write your resume summary

A resume summary is a brief paragraph that provides an overview of your qualifications for the role you’re applying for. Most expert resume writers today highly recommend using a summary.

“One of the most common mistakes I see in resumes is the absence of a targeted introductory paragraph at the beginning of the resume,” says career coach Suzanne Berger . “Keep in mind that recruiters or hiring managers only spend 10 to 20 seconds reviewing your resume, so it is important to make an impact from the start.”

As you can see from the following example, your summary goes right under your resume headline:

Your resume summary should include a concise overview of your key qualifications, professional achievements, and skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

Here’s a formula you can use to write your summary, followed by an example:

[Your Professional Title] with [Years of Experience] years of experience. Proven track record in [Top Achievement 1] and [Top Achievement 2] . Skilled in [Skill 1] , [Skill 2] , and [Skill 3] . Known for [Unique Value or Strength] .

Marketing Manager with 8 years of experience . Proven track record in increasing online engagement by 40% and boosting lead generation by 30% . Skilled in content creation, data analysis, and strategic planning . Known for exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage and inspire teams to exceed corporate objectives .

Resume summary do’s and don’ts

• Use numbers to show that you are able to produce tangible outcomes.
• Incorporate keywords from the job description whenever possible.
• Write your resume summary last because you’ll then have a fuller picture of your experiences and skills.
• Don’t just list your job duties; instead focus on your accomplishments.
• Don’t use personal pronouns (I, me, or my).
• Don’t make your summary too long; keep it to no more than 3-4 sentences.

6. Create your skills section

When we talk about keywords, we are mostly talking about skills .

There are two main types of skills— hard and soft . Hard skills are specific abilities you learn through education or training, like using certain software or speaking a foreign language. Soft skills are more about how you work and interact with others, such as teamwork, communication , and flexibility.

You should place your skills section under your resume summary. List your skill set using bullet points, either in columns or in a bullet-point format. Try to include 10 to 20 key skills in this section.

IMPORTANT! The way the same skill is worded in a job description can vary from company to company. This is why it’s crucial to tailor each resume to the job you’re applying to.

For example, here are three different ways of listing essentially the same skill:

• Customer Service
• Client Relations
• Customer Support

If the job description lists “customer support” and you have “customer service” on your resume, the hiring manager might not find your resume when searching through the ATS database — even though you do have that skill.

To make sure you’re using the right keyword skills, run your resume through Jobscan’s resume scanner . It compares your resume to the job description and tells you which skills to use.

You’ll also receive a resume score which tells you how closely your resume matches the job description. The higher your score the more likely you are to get an interview. Here’s an example of the report you’ll receive from the resume scanner:

The skills in red are missing from the resume. Add them to increase the resume score. You can read more about Jobscan’s resume scanner and how to try it for free here .

7. Create a compelling work history section

Now it’s time to get to the heart of your resume – the  work experience  section. This is the section employers will spend the most time looking at when they consider your resume.

Why is this section so critical? Because it’s where you provide the proof to support what you said about yourself in your resume headline, summary, and skills section.

Each job should include the following information and be listed in reverse-chronological order (latest job first).

• Company name and location – Include the full name of the company you worked for followed by the city and state of its location.
• Job title – Be as specific as possible to ensure that employers know exactly what your role was within the company.
• Start and end dates – Include the month and year for each position. If you only list the year, it may appear as though you are omitting information.
• Achievements and responsibilities – These can be listed using bullet points. Include hard numbers and metrics wherever possible.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when writing a resume is only listing their job responsibilities. These are tasks that you’re expected to perform as part of your job.

Listing your job responsibilities gives a potential employer an idea of what you did day-to-day. But it doesn’t reveal  how well you did it.

This is why it’s important to highlight your specific accomplishments. For example, if you increased sales, reduced costs, or implemented new processes or technologies, be sure to mention these accomplishments.

Here’s an example of a work experience section with measurable achievements :

To write strong bullet points for your work experience section, use Jobscan’s AI-powered bullet point generator. It creates bullet points based on the skills in the job description, highlighting your relevant qualifications. Try it for free here .

Work experience do’s and don’ts

• Use numbers to quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Use action verbs to describe how you did something.
• Use the mm/yyyy format for resume dates .
• Don’t list more than 10 years of work experience unless it’s highly relevant.
• Don’t use the passive phrase “responsible for.” Instead, use active voice.
• Don’t list every single task you worked on; include only the most relevant.

8. Create your education and certification section

Your education section should appear after your work experience. If you’re applying to a job that requires extensive education (like medicine, law, or academia), you’ll need to be more detailed. But most job seekers can get away with providing only the following information on their resume:

• Name of the degree/certification: Write the full name of the degree or certification. Use commonly accepted abbreviations (e.g., B.A. in English, MBA, PMP).
• Institution name: Include the name of the university or institution that awarded the degree or certification.
• Location (optional): List the city and state if the location is relevant to the job or if the institution is well-known.
• Graduation date: Mention the month and year of graduation. For certifications, you can also include an expiration date if applicable.

Here’s an example of an education section on a resume:

Education section do’s and don’ts

• Bold your degree so that it stands out.
• List your education in reverse-chronological order.
• Include any relevant coursework, skills training, licenses, and certifications .
• Don’t mention your high school if you have a college degree.
• Don’t disclose your GPA unless you graduated recently and had a very impressive academic career (3.5 GPA plus).
• Don’t list an advanced degree if the job doesn’t require it.

9. Showcase honors, awards, and volunteer work

The key to this section is to only include honors and awards that are relevant to the job you’re applying to.

This can get a little tricky because if you do have honors or awards that are highly relevant, consider including them in your summary section. Otherwise, hiring managers might miss them if you only list them at the bottom of your resume.

If you have any  volunteer experience , it’s generally a good idea to add it to your resume.

According to a LinkedIn survey , 20% of employers say they have hired a candidate because of their volunteer experience. The survey also showed that job seekers who volunteer are 27% more likely to be hired than non-volunteers!

• The name of the organization.
• The dates of your service.
• A brief description of your duties and responsibilities.

Here’s an example of what this section of your resume can look like:

10. How can you tailor your resume to a specific job position?

Tailoring your resume to each specific job is not just recommended; it’s imperative . This is because most companies today use ATS computer software to manage and filter the enormous amount of resumes they receive.

When you submit your resume, it goes into an ATS database . Hiring managers search the ATS database for suitable resumes by typing keywords, or skills, into the ATS search bar. If your resume contains these keywords it will be found. If it doesn’t contain the right keywords, your resume will remain in the ATS database, unseen.

To tailor your resume, you must first read the job description. This is where you’ll find the keywords to add to your resume. Make sure you add those keywords exactly as they are written in the job description .

Unfortunately, tailoring each resume to the job description takes time and effort. The best way to speed up this process is to use an online tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner .

Just paste in your resume and the job description and click scan. You’ll receive a match report telling you how closely your resume matches the job ad. The report also tells you exactly which keywords to add to your resume to optimize it for the ATS. Try the scanner for free below:

Effective resume formatting tips

Properly formatting your resume makes it easy for hiring managers to find what they’re looking for. At the same time, good formatting helps the ATS understand your resume.

Remember, if the ATS can’t read your resume you won’t get the job!

Choose a professional, easy-to-read font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in size 10 to 12 for text and 14 to 16 for headings.

Clearly distinguish section headings with a larger font size, bold text, or underlining to guide the reader’s eye effectively through your resume., set your margins to at least 0.7 inches all around, ensuring that your resume looks balanced and does not appear overcrowded., avoid complex graphics, tables, headers, and footers, which can confuse ats software., break up blocks of text. a paragraph should never be longer than 5 lines., use standard headings like “work experience,” “education,” and “skills.” these are immediately recognizable to both hiring managers and ats., use the same style of bullets, text alignment, and line spacing throughout your document., align your text to the left. right-aligned or justified text can create irregular spacing between words, making your resume harder to read., save your resume file as a pdf to preserve your formatting across different platforms., proofread carefully one grammatical error can ruin your chances of getting a job., how to write a resume for students with no experience.

Creating a good resume without any work experience might seem tough, but you can still make a strong impression on employers by highlighting your skills and activities. Here’s how:

• Focus on your education : Put your education section at the top. Include details like your degree, major, relevant coursework, academic honors, and GPA if it’s above average.
• Include extracurricular activities : List any activities outside of class, like clubs, sports, or student government. Mention any leadership roles or responsibilities you’ve had.
• Add volunteer work and internships : Don’t forget to include volunteer positions, internships, or community service. These experiences show your willingness to work and learn.
• Highlight projects and academic achievements : Talk about any major projects or research you’ve done, especially if they relate to the job you want. Describe what you did and what you achieved.
• Skills section : Make a list of your skills, including technical skills (like computer software) and soft skills (like teamwork and communication).
• Professional summary : Start with a short summary that explains your career goals and your best qualities. Make it clear why you’d be a great fit for the job.

Here’s a sample of a resume for students with no experience:

How to match your cover letter to your resume

Matching your cover letter with your resume helps create a polished and cohesive application. Here’s how:

• Consistent formatting : Use the same font, header, and layout from your resume for your cover letter. This helps create a professional and unified appearance.
• Use similar language : Pick out key skills and phrases from your resume and include them in your cover letter. This reinforces your qualifications and aligns your application with the job requirements.
• Expand on key points : Choose one or two major achievements listed on your resume and elaborate on them in your cover letter. Explain how these experiences have equipped you for the job.
• Keep the tone the same : If your resume is formal, your cover letter should be too. If it’s more casual, your cover letter can be less formal as well.
• Address the job’s needs : Demonstrate how your experiences make you a good fit for the job. Show that you understand what the job involves and explain why you’re the right candidate.
• End with a call to action : Conclude by expressing your enthusiasm for the role and suggesting they look at your resume for more details. Ask them to contact you for an interview.

When you’re done writing your cover letter, run it through Jobscan’s  cover letter checker . This tool will tell you how to improve your cover letter. 

Hate writing cover letters? Use Jobscan’s  cover letter builder . This tool uses AI technology to generate an ATS-friendly cover letter with just one click.

10 standout resume examples to inspire you

These samples showcase a variety of styles and formats suited for different industries and career stages, giving you ideas on how to write a resume.

1. Sales manager resume example

2. Accountant resume example

3. Recruiter resume example

4. Bookkeeper resume sample

5. Digital marketing resume example

6. Teacher resume example

7. Customer service resume example

8. Office assistant resume example

9. Operations manager resume example

10. Technical writer resume example

Key takeaways

• Optimize for ATS : Today’s resumes must be tailored to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) by including specific keywords related to the job you’re applying for. This ensures your resume is seen by hiring managers.
• Tailored Resumes : Each resume should be customized to the job description, emphasizing relevant experiences and skills. This enhances your chances of standing out in a competitive job market.
• Resume Formats : Choose between chronological, functional, or hybrid formats based on your career history and the job requirements. Chronological is suitable for those with a strong, relevant job history; functional is best for career changers or those with gaps in employment; hybrid combines the strengths of both.
• Essential Elements : A resume should include a clear headline, a compelling summary, a detailed work history, relevant skills, and educational credentials. Each section should be crafted to showcase your qualifications and fit for the role.
• Skills and Keywords : Highlight both hard and soft skills that are directly relevant to the job. Using precise keywords from the job description in your resume ensures compatibility with ATS and increases the likelihood of your resume being selected.
• Quantifiable Achievements : Where possible, use metrics to quantify your accomplishments. This provides concrete evidence of your capabilities and impact in previous roles.
• Additional Sections : Including volunteer work, awards, and certifications can differentiate your resume. Ensure these are relevant to the job to keep the resume focused and impactful.
• Resume Building Tools : Utilize tools like resume builders and scanners (e.g., Jobscan) to construct a resume that matches job descriptions and optimizes for ATS, saving time and improving effectiveness.
• Format and Proofread : Proper formatting and thorough proofreading are essential to maintain professionalism. Ensure the resume is easy to read and free from errors, which can detract from your credibility.

Beginners can use the chronological format if they have some work experience, even if it’s part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer work. However, if a beginner has little to no work experience, a functional format might be better. Include essential resume sections like contact information, a summary, education, and any relevant work experience or skills. Tailor your resume to the job by incorporating keywords from the job description. If you lack work experience, emphasize volunteer work, internships, and extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Always proofread for errors before submitting your resume.

To make your resume stand out to recruiters, start by tailoring it specifically for each job application, incorporating keywords from the job description to align closely with the requirements. Highlight your achievements by quantifying them with specific numbers and outcomes, such as “increased sales by 20%” or “reduced processing time by 30%,” to demonstrate measurable success. Begin with a compelling professional summary that succinctly outlines your key qualifications and what you bring to the role, clearly establishing why you are the ideal candidate. Ensure your resume has a clean and professional layout, with logical sections and easy-to-read fonts, to facilitate quick review and make a strong first impression.

1) Gather information 2) Choose a format 3) Write contact information 4) Craft a headline and summary 5) Detail your experience and education 6) Highlight skills 7) Add additional sections 8) Tailor for the job 9) Proofread and edit 10) Finalize and save

To create a resume with no work experience , start with a functional format that emphasizes your skills and education. Begin with a strong summary statement that highlights your career goals and key skills. Place your education section prominently, including any relevant coursework or projects. List both hard and soft skills applicable to the job, and include any internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your abilities and work ethic. Mention any significant projects or achievements, especially those relevant to your desired job. Also, include any professional affiliations that show your interest in the industry. Ensure the resume is well-organized and clearly formatted to highlight your qualifications effectively.

Use Jobscan’s resume builder , which is specifically designed to help you craft an AI resume that is both appealing to hiring managers and optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). This tool provides templates and real-time content suggestions, helping you tailor your resume effectively for each job application. You can also use ChatGPT to write a resume for free . Just be sure to edit and personalize the results you get.

1) Log into your Google account, go to Google Docs, and either start a new document or use the template gallery. Jobscan also offers free Google Docs resume templates . 2) Select a resume template that fits the job you’re applying for from the template gallery. 3) Replace the template’s placeholder text with your personal information, including contact details, educational background, work experience, and skills. 4) Tailor the content to the job by adding relevant keywords from the job description and adjusting the format—like fonts and spacing—for clarity and appeal. 5) Double-check your resume for any errors and consider having someone else review it too. 6) Once satisfied, download your resume as a PDF or DOCX file , or share it directly via email or a shareable link.

1) Start the program and select “New” from the file menu to access templates. 2) Type “resume” in the template search bar to see available resume designs. 3) Choose a template that suits your needs, then replace the placeholder text with your personal details, including work experience, education, and skills. 4) Adjust the content to match the job description, using relevant keywords and highlighting your qualifications. 5) Modify font size, style, and colors to ensure the resume is clean and professional. 6) Check for any errors, and consider having someone else review it. 7) Save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting and make sharing easy. 8) Print for physical submissions or save digitally for online applications.

In 2024, resumes should be designed for clarity and ATS compatibility . Start with a professional layout that includes plenty of white space and a logical structure. The top should have your contact information—just your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL , omitting a full address for privacy. Follow this with a concise professional summary, then list your work experience, skills, and education. The format should ensure easy readability for both human recruiters and Applicant Tracking Systems, emphasizing a clean design without complex graphics or tables that could confuse the ATS software.

Choosing the right resume format depends on your career background: Chronological: Lists your work history in reverse chronological order, ideal for those with a solid work history. Functional: Focuses on skills rather than work history, suitable for career changers or those with gaps in employment. Combination: Mixes elements of both chronological and functional formats, highlighting skills followed by work history in reverse order. Good for those with significant skills and experiences.

The number of jobs you should include on your resume depends on your experience level and relevance to the role. Typically, if you’re early in your career with less than 10 years of experience, aim for 2-3 recent and relevant positions. For mid-career professionals, around 3-4 positions spanning the last 10-15 years is common. Experienced professionals may include the most pertinent roles from their extensive history, focusing on the past 10-15 years. Ensure each listed job directly relates to the position you’re applying for, prioritizing relevancy over quantity to present a focused and impactful resume.

A resume should typically be one to two pages long, with rare exceptions for highly experienced individuals or those in certain industries. Aim to keep it concise and focused on highlighting your most relevant qualifications and experiences for the position you’re applying for.

AI and machine learning have revolutionized resume screening by automating the process. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) use these technologies to quickly analyze resumes, searching for relevant keywords and qualifications. This saves recruiters time and ensures a more efficient screening process, helping them identify top candidates more effectively.

When writing a resume summary with no experience, focus on your education, relevant skills, and career goals. Highlight any coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate skills applicable to the job. Emphasize your enthusiasm, work ethic, and eagerness to learn. Keep it concise and impactful, showcasing how your background aligns with the position and company’s needs.

Crafting a simple resume involves starting with your contact information, followed by a brief summary statement. List your work experience, education, and relevant skills, ensuring consistency in formatting. Consider including optional sections like volunteer experience or honors/awards. Proofread carefully and tailor your resume to each job application.

Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

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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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How to Write Your First Job Resume [For 2024]

So there you are, sitting in front of a screen, staring at a blank Word page for hours, with one task at hand: writing your first job resume.

Where do you even start?

And most importantly: How do you fill those 1-2 pages when you have no work experience?

We feel your struggle and we’re here to help!

In this article, we’re going to guide you through the entire process of creating a first job resume from start to finish.

Let’s dive right in, shall we?

How to Write Your First Job Resume

• Pick the right resume template
• Write down your contact information (correctly)
• Include a resume objective
• List your education (in detail)
• Instead of work experience, focus on…
• Highlight your skills
• Mention optional sections
• Stick to the one-page limit
• Get inspired by a first-job resume example

Don’t worry, we’re going to cover all of the above in detail!

Starting with the first step:

#1. Pick the Right First Job Resume Format and Template

There are 3 main resume formats you can pick from. Each of them highlights a different part of your resume.

• Reverse-Chronological Resume - In this format, your work experiences and education are listed in reverse-chronological order. 
• Functional Resume - Instead of work experience, this format focuses on your skills and achievements.
• Combination (or Hybrid) Resume - This format focuses on both your skills and work experience.

For 99% of job-seekers, we recommend sticking with the reverse-chronological format.

While a functional resume can sometimes help for career changers or recent graduates, it’s still nowhere near as common as the reverse chronological one.

Plus, recruiters world-wide are familiar with the reverse-chronological format, making it a safer bet.

A reverse-chronological resume looks as follows:

Once you’ve picked the format, the next step is to perfect your layout, font, and the like. Here’s what we recommend for that:

• Use a Two-Column Layout. A two-column resume layout allows you to fit a lot more content into your resume.
• Pick a Common Font. We recommend Ubuntu, Overpass, or Roboto.
• Use Bullets to Describe Your Experiences.
• Don’t Go Over One Page. Unless you’re a professional with a decade of work experience, we recommend sticking to the one-page resume limit.

Want to avoid all the hassle of formatting your resume layout? We don’t blame you - if you wanted to build a good-looking resume from scratch, it would take you hours before you could even start filling it in.

Thankfully, there’s an easier way out: using a resume builder.

With Novoresume, all you have to do is pick a template, and fill in the contents. It’s that simple.

And on top of that, Novorésumé resumes are ATS-friendly . Meaning, your resume won’t be swallowed up by an applicant tracking system just because it can’t read it.

Want to get started with Novorésumé? Browse our resume templates .

#2. Write Down Your Contact Information (Correctly)

It’s important for the recruiter to have at least two ways of reaching back to you.

Meaning, you should always provide your contact information in your resume . That includes: 

• First and last name
• Phone number

Apart from these must-haves, you can also provide:

• LinkedIn URL - This is a good way to complement your resume. It also makes the recruiter’s life easier since they usually check your LinkedIn profile anyway. Make sure all information is updated and consistent with your resume, though.
• Relevant social media (like Quora or StackOverflow) - Any social media that is related to the job position and puts you in good light should be included in your resume. In most cases. If you’re a developer, it could be projects on GitHub. Writer? Personal blog.
• Website or blog - Again, this should be something related to the job. It shows your interest and dedication to the industry and how you spend some of your free time.

When it comes to your contact information, the key is to write everything correctly . Double-check you’ve spelled your name and email right, make sure the phone number you’ve listed can be reached, and that the accounts you have linked to are up to date . 

Something else you should know regarding location is how much detail you should be providing. 

The reason recruiters want to know your location is so that they have an idea of whether you’re in the vicinity of the company or not (and if you’ll need to relocate for work). 

That means, providing the city and country where you live will be enough. No need for your full home address. 

#3. Include a Resume Objective

Recruiters spend on average 7 seconds scanning each resume before deciding if it’s worth more consideration or not. 

That means your resume has about 7 seconds to leave a great first impression and convince the recruiter you’re the person they’re looking for.

A good resume objective does that for you. 

A resume objective is a 2-3 sentence snapshot of your skills, achievements, and career goals . Its purpose is to communicate your motivation for getting into the field and your interest in this particular position. 

This makes it ideal for the first job resume of a recent graduate or somebody who’s changing careers. Basically, any resume with no work experience . 

Your resume objective should be tailored to the position you are applying for and highlight skills that will help the company achieve its goal. Use as many facts and numbers as you can to back up any statements or achievements. 

• Creative and motivated recent graduate with a B.A. in Marketing from the University of Michigan. Seeking permanent employment in the field of marketing after completing successful internships in 2 major media companies. Looking to further develop my market analysis skills and contribute to future marketing strategy developments at XY Company.
• I am looking to put my marketing skills into action by initially working for the marketing department of a well-known company until I can finally get to an executive position.

#4. List Your Education (In Detail)

For starters, you should know how to list your education entries correctly in the following format:

• Program Name e.g.: B.A. in Information Systems
• University Name e.g.: University of Chicago
• Years Attended e.g.: 07/2013 - 05/2017
• GPA (only if really high)
• Honors (If applicable) e.g. Cum Laude

Exchange Program (If applicable) e.g. Exchange program in Berlin, Germany

Apart from your skills, your education is the biggest selling point in your first job resume. This is not the place to be humble and play down your achievements!

Write down your GPA (if it’s something impressive), emphasize your honors, and most importantly, highlight your academic achievements by describing them in detail.  

What you can also do is list specific courses that you have taken that are relevant to the position you are applying for. 

Here’s an example of what an entry on the education section should look like:

B.A. in English Literature (Cum Laude)

Boston University

07/2014 - 05/2018

• Courses: Advanced Topics in Literature: Shakespeare’s Work 
• Clubs: Boston University Drama Club
• Exchange program in London, UK

#5. Instead of Work Experience, Focus On This

As a recent graduate, the recruiter knows you don’t have any work experience - and that’s OK. As long as you’re applying for a junior or entry-level position, the experience isn’t something expected from you.

Instead, the recruiter will be looking for other experiences that enrich your profile, like:

• Internships
• Extracurricular Activities

When talking about these experiences, format them just like you’d format your work experience. 

Business Analyst Internship

AAA Company

Milan, Italy

05/2019 - 12/2019

• Ran weekly and monthly analysis on diverse areas of the business
• Created insightful reports of the analysis to present to managers and teams
• Defined strategic KPIs, in order to monitor the efficiency of commercial operations

When possible, try to focus on listing your achievements and not your responsibilities. This will help you stand out from the rest of the applicants.

Haven’t done any internships? Include extracurricular activities.

More often than not, an applicant with extracurricular activities and an average GPA will impress the recruiter much more than a 4.0 GPA student with nothing else to show. When listing your extracurricular activities, each entry should have the following format:

Moot Court Club Member

2017 - 2019

• Participated for two years in a row at the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, making it to the finals in 2019
• Researched and prepared written pleadings, called memorials addressing timely issues of public international law
• Helped train the new club members in topics of international law

Finally, you can also list independent projects, if you have any. Think, something you did on the side just for yourself. This can be a personal project, small business or startup, side-gig, blog, etc.

Amy’s Book Club Blog

2018 - Present

• Created my own book club website for reviewing and discussing the latest books.
• Curated a monthly book calendar for my followers to follow, combining trending, relevant, and classic books.
• Created over 40 book review articles.
• On average, received 2000 visitors per month to the blog.

#6. Highlight Your Skills

The two types of skills you can mention on your resume are soft skills and hard skills.

Soft skills are attributes that help you adapt to work environments, work in a team, and apply your hard skills effectively. They are related to your personality, social skills, communication, attitude, etc.

Hard skills refer to technical knowledge and specific tools. They are skills that one learns and applies directly to the job. Some examples of hard skills include:

• Financial accounting
• Adobe Illustrator

Although soft skills are becoming more and more in demand by employers , for your first job resume, we recommend sticking to hard skills. 

Sure, attributes like “teamwork” or “critical thinking” are much appreciated by just about any employer. 

The thing is, though, the recruiter can’t really tell if you actually have critical thinking skills, or just listed it on your resume to fill space.

Hard skills, on the other hand, are very easy to test.

Tailor Skills to the Job Ad

Not sure which skills to mention in your first job resume?

The simplest way to find the essential ones is to check the job ad.

The recruiter themselves mentioned the skills they’re looking for - the only thing you need to do is mention them in your resume (as long as you have them, anyway).

Let’s say you’re applying for a graphic designer position that wants the following qualifications and skills:

• Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, particularly InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and Acrobat; XD, Animate and/or After Effects are a plus
• Working knowledge of presentation software (Canva, PowerPoint and/or Keynote)
• Ability to work under pressure, manage work on multiple projects daily, manage a large workload and meet deadlines.
• Detail-oriented, highly organized

Based on that, your skills section should include the following:

• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Acrobat
• After Effects and Cinema4D
• Canva and Keynote
• Time management
• Detail-oriented

If the job ad isn’t too descriptive, you can also check out these 101+ most in-demand skills for 2024 . 

#7. Mention Optional Sections

Still have some space on your resume?

That’s not a bad thing! You can use this space to your advantage and add some other useful sections.

Here are some ideas:

• Volunteering - If you have some volunteering experience, make sure to include it in your first job resume. Such a section shows commitment, dedication, and a sense of purpose, something most recruiters will appreciate.
• Languages - With companies becoming more and more international, additional languages are always appreciated.
• Hobbies - You can show your genuine interest in the industry or field by listing some relevant hobbies/interests.
• Awards & Certifications - Whether it’s an award from an essay competition in college or a certificate from an online course, anything that flatters your profile should be added.

#8. Stick to the One-Page Limit

“ How long should a resume be? ” seems like an eternal dilemma at this point. 

Generally, the answer is: it depends. 

Since you’re making a first job resume, the answer is: definitely one page . 

Unless you have an extensive employment history that can’t fit into one page, there’s no need to go over that limit. 

It’s unlikely that the recruiter will want to look at two pages of extracurriculars and hobbies. 

#9. Get Inspired by This First-Job Resume

Need some inspiration for your resume? Check out the resume examples below.

First Job Resume FAQ 

Still have some questions on how to write a convincing first job resume?

We’ll answer them here.

1. What do I put on my no-experience resume?

There’s plenty of other things you can include in your resume instead of work experience. For starters, you should:

• Focus on your education, making sure the entries are formatted correctly.
• Pick the right skills that match what the employer is looking for.
• Talk about internships, personal projects, or extracurricular activities. Describe your achievements in detail.

If you still have some space left, you could use it to your advantage and add extra sections like volunteer work, languages, awards & certificates, or hobbies.

2. Is a resume necessary for a first job?

Depending on the region, a resume or CV is always necessary for a job application, be it the first or the 20th. 

Before deciding if they should call you for an interview, the recruiters need to have some insight into you and your skills.

3. Do I need work experience to land my first job?

Short answer: You don’t! 

If you’re a recent graduate, it’s a given that you won’t have any work experience. Most employers don’t actually expect years of work experience for an entry-level or junior position. 

Instead, they’ll be looking at your other types of experiences (internships, extracurricular activities, etc.) to decide on whether you’re a good fit for the job or not.

4. How do you write a resume for your first job?

The process is quite similar to the one for writing a regular resume, but with a few tweaks.

The exact steps for creating a first job resume are:

• Instead of work experience, focus on extracurricular activities, internships, projects, etc.

Key Takeaways

Writing your first job resume doesn’t have to be stressful!

Remember the following tips and you’ll do just fine:

• Pick the right format and template to avoid the hassle of formatting your resume. Make sure to pick an ATS-friendly resume template.
• Write a concise and attention-grabbing resume objective. Show the recruiter that you’re relevant for the role and that they should read the rest of your resume.
• Instead of work experience, include information on your internships, projects, and extracurricular activities.

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How to Perfect your Résumé

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Are you a student looking to find a career and make a BILLION DOLLARS? The first step is to have a standout and phenomenal résumé. However, when most résumés are only reviewed by employers for under 30 seconds, creating a résumé can feel like a daunting task.  You are in luck, however; here at the Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills, we have a plethora of resources to ensure your résumé displays the best of you as succinctly as possible 

If you do not already have a résumé, that is okay! On our website (career.uconn.edu), on the “ write a résumé ” tab, you can find templates to use to start your résumé, as well as articles and videos that offer extra tips and tricks on getting started.  

Now that you have your base résumé, the next step is getting it on your employer’s desk. One way that employers filter qualified candidates from a pool of applicants is through Applicant Tracking Systems. The Center has recently established a partnership with Quinncia , which is a platform that uses AI to review and critique your résumé in relation to how successful it will be moving through these systems. All you must do is upload your current résumé, and Quinncia will score it and offer improvements all within 2 minutes. Thanks to our partnership, current UConn students have free access to the service – make sure to take advantage! 

Once you have finished with your Quinncia critique, if you are looking to specialize your résumé for a specific job opportunity, feel free to schedule a career coaching appointment! Our career coaches can help target your skillsets in your résumé to match what it is your dream employer is searching for. 

Office Hours: 8AM – 5PM Career Coaching Hours: 8AM – 5PM * Evening appointments vary by semester. * If you require an accommodation to utilize any resource or to participate in any event, please contact our office.

(860) 486-3013 career@uconn.edu

Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills Wilbur Cross Building, Rm 202 233 Glenbrook Road U-4051 Storrs, CT 06269

Effective ways to start a resume: a step-by-step guide

When a hiring manager reads your resume, the first thing they’ll see is your introduction. Clearly, it’s important that you write a good one, as this is what will catch the hiring manager’s attention and convince them that the rest of the document is worth reading. Learn how to start a resume with a concise yet exciting introduction that spotlights your relevant skills, experience, and career goals.

Types of resume introductions

When it comes to resume introductions, the good news is you have a few choices. There are four main types of resume introductions, each with its own unique characteristics. Additionally, each one serves a different purpose and is suitable for a specific type of candidate. 

The first type of introduction is a resume objective. Though many resume articles will tell you that you shouldn’t use these, they are quite helpful for entry-level candidates without much experience. (1) In one short statement, you’ll tell the hiring manager what you want to accomplish and what you have to offer that makes you a good fit for the role.

Once you have at least five years of experience under your belt and are moving into your mid-career years, you should consider using a resume profile as your introduction. You can format it with bullet points or as a paragraph. Either way, it should highlight how much experience you have, one or two things you’re best at, and what you’ve achieved in your career.

If you’re a career changer, it’s a good idea to use a summary of qualifications for your introduction. Instead of telling the hiring manager about what you need, you’ll highlight your transferable skills to show them how your past experience in a different industry has prepared you for a job in a new field. This introduction usually comes in the form of a short bulleted list of your relevant skills, personal traits, and accomplishments.

If you’re highly experienced in one industry, the resume summary is likely the best choice for an introduction. Your resume will contain a lot of information, and a hiring manager will appreciate having the highlights at the very beginning. You can include the number of years of experience you have, followed by a summary of your best accomplishments and any industry-specific certifications you hold.

Crafting a compelling resume introduction

Resume introductions allow you just a few lines of text to fully — and quickly — communicate your value as a candidate. Consider the following suggestions to ensure your introduction is succinct and highly relevant to the role you’re applying for. 

Tailor it to the job description

A resume that is tailored to the job description paints a clear picture of your potential value to the company.

One of the best ways to customize your introduction for the position is to comb the job description for keywords related to skills and responsibilities and incorporate them into your resume introduction. This also helps you get your document through applicant tracking systems that may filter resumes based on certain phrases and keywords.

Highlight relevant skills

Though your resume format most likely allows for a dedicated skills section, you should also highlight your soft and technical skills — as well as your certifications — in your introduction. These should be aligned with the job description and relevant to the industry you want to work in. 

This will help you keep your introduction succinct and highlight why you should be hired for this specific role. Provide examples of your accomplishments and use impactful action verbs to make an impression.

Expert Tip:

You don’t have to save concrete examples of your accomplishments for your work history section. Quantify your achievements in the introduction using numbers and percentages (e.g., improved customer retention by 46%) to show how your skills contribute to positive business outcomes.

Writing your resume introduction

Your introduction has the power to make or break your job-hunting experience. It can help you land the interview or it can cause you to miss a chance at your dream job. 

Here’s how to start a resume in a way that highlights your strengths, experience, and passion (in no more than one to three sentences) to show a hiring manager why you’re the perfect person for the role. 

Resume introduction examples

Reading resume examples of different types of introductions can help you craft one that grabs the hiring manager’s attention and makes them want to know more. Here are several models that you can use as a starting point for your own application materials.

Resume objective example

Marketing assistant with 2+ years of experience working in an agency setting, including market research, campaign monitoring, content creation, and administrative support. Familiar with major CRMs, marketing automation tools, and project management platforms. Aiming to use my proven skills in a new role to contribute to productivity goals and ensure high-quality deliverables.

Resume profile example

Meticulous marketing manager with 8+ years of experience in both large and independent agency settings. Highly skilled in market research using varied resources for comprehensive data collection and in-depth analysis; trained a team of 25+ associates on the effective construction of customer surveys. Consistently achieve double-digit increases in client retention rates.

Summary of qualifications example

• Led client retention initiative to pivot from one-size-fits-all packages to customized a-la-carte style service offerings, resulting in a 43% increase in repeat business
• Detail-oriented personality that helps drive high productivity and accurate data analysis while remaining friendly and flexible at all times
• Fluent in three languages to serve customers from different parts of the city

Resume summary example

OMCP-certified director of marketing with 17+ years of experience leading large-scale corporate projects. Provides leadership to 200+ marketing associates and 10 marketing coordinators, managing a high six-figure budget and overseeing annual plans and marketing strategy. Consistently achieves a 10% conversion rate or better across marketing campaigns; obtained a Kellogg School of Management digital marketing certificate.

Tips when writing your introduction

Figuring out how to start a resume isn’t easy and requires a bit of thought. The following tips can help you streamline the process:

• Talk about your personal traits in addition to your technical skills
• Discuss any special skills or certifications that enhance your performance
• Use numbers to showcase the positive business impact of your work
• Highlight skills that hiring managers want to see, such as leadership, initiative, safety, teamwork, and cost savings
• Use resume and cover letter templates to get a sense of what an attention-grabbing introduction sounds like

Your introduction is a powerful tool, so keep these suggestions in mind to help you write a compelling one.

"Your introduction has the power to make or break your job-hunting experience. It can help you land the interview or it can cause you to miss a chance at your dream job."

Best practices for resume introductions

Your resume introduction is the first chance you get to make an impression on a recruiter or hiring manager. Here are a few best practices to help you make the most of this opportunity:

• Choose the right introduction type for your experience level
• Ensure your introduction is succinct by keeping it to one to three sentences
• Use a standard format so your resume looks and feels professional
• Avoid saving important accomplishments for the cover letter — include them in your resume introduction
• Get feedback from others in your industry to ensure your introduction is compelling
• Use keywords from the job description to keep your resume relevant and help it pass through applicant tracking systems

Putting these best practices to use in learning how to start a cover letter or resume will make your application polished and professional.

The right introduction can be the key that unlocks your dream job

A great resume introduction is crucial to ensuring the hiring manager sees you as a valuable candidate. Learning how to start a resume off the right way is all about choosing the best introduction format for your career stage. In one to three sentences, highlight your relevant personal traits and showcase quantifiable results and business impact.

As you think about what you want to include in your introduction, consider using a few resume and cover letter examples as your starting point. You can use this sample material as a baseline to help you craft a professional resume introduction that hiring managers can’t ignore.

(1) Inc. Magazine: Your Resume Is Probably Embarrassing You. Here’s What to Fix Right Now

Get ahead of the competition

Make your job applications stand-out from other candidates.

Hard Skills: Definition & Examples for Resumes

How To Handle Employment Gaps On Your Resume

Best Transferable Skills for Resumes

How to Make a Resume in Microsoft Word: A Step-by-Step Guide Finding Your Dream Job

Creating a resume can feel overwhelming, but with Microsoft Word, you have a powerful tool at your fingertips to craft a professional-looking document that highlights your skills and experiences. Whether you're just starting your career or updating an existing resume, Word provides various templates and formatting tools that make the process easier. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create a standout resume using Microsoft Word.

Creating a Resume in MS Word

 step 1: open microsoft word.

If you haven't already, open Microsoft Word on your computer. This guide is based on Word 2016 and later, but the steps are generally similar across different versions.

Note: If you don't have Microsoft Word installed, you can access it through an Office 365 subscription or use the online version at [office.com](https://www.office.com).

Step 2: Choose a Resume Template

One of the easiest ways to get started is by using a resume template. Microsoft Word offers a variety of pre-designed templates that are both professional and visually appealing.

How to Find a Template

1. Open Word: Start Word and select "New" from the menu.

2. Search for Resume Templates: In the search bar at the top of the window, type "resume" and press Enter. Word will display a list of available resume templates.

3. Choose a Template: Browse through the templates and select one that best fits your style and the type of job you’re applying for. Double-click the template to open it.

 Tips for Choosing a Template

- Consider the Industry: For creative fields, a more modern or visually interesting template might be appropriate. For more traditional industries, stick with classic, clean designs.

- Keep it Simple: Ensure that your resume is easy to read. Avoid overly complex layouts and excessive colors.

Step 3: Customize Your Resume

Once you've selected a template, it's time to customize it with your personal information. This is where you add the details that make you stand out as a candidate.

 Editing the Text

1. Replace Placeholder Text: Click on the text fields and replace the placeholder content with your own information. This includes your name, contact information, education, work experience, and skills.

2. Format Your Text: Use Word's formatting tools to adjust fonts, sizes, and styles to ensure consistency and readability. Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri.

3. Adjust Sections: Depending on your experience and the job you're applying for, you might want to add or remove sections. For example, if you have extensive experience, you might emphasize that section more than education.

 Organize Your Information

- Contact Information: Place this at the top of the resume, including your full name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile or portfolio if applicable.

- Professional Summary or Objective: A brief statement at the beginning of your resume that outlines your career goals or summarizes your professional background.

- Work Experience: List your most recent job first, followed by previous positions. Include the job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements.

- Education: List your highest degree first, including the institution name, degree type, and graduation date.

- Skills: Highlight skills relevant to the job. These can be hard skills like programming or soft skills like communication.

- Additional Sections: Consider adding sections for certifications, languages, volunteer work, or hobbies if they are relevant to the job.

Step 4: Fine-Tune the Design

With the content in place, you can now focus on making your resume visually appealing while maintaining a professional look.

 Formatting Tips

1. Margins and Spacing: Ensure that your margins are even and the spacing between sections is consistent. Use the “Layout” tab to adjust margins and spacing.

2. Use Bullet Points: Bullet points help break up text and make your resume easier to skim. Use them to list duties and accomplishments under each job entry.

3. Consistency: Keep font sizes and styles consistent throughout. Headings should be slightly larger than the body text to make sections easy to identify.

4. Color: Use color sparingly. Stick to neutral colors like black, gray, or navy for the text. If you use color, ensure it complements the overall design and does not distract from the content.

 Step 5: Save and Export Your Resume

Once you're satisfied with your resume, it's important to save it properly.

1. Save as a Word Document: Go to "File" > "Save As" and choose where you want to save the file on your computer. Name your file appropriately (e.g., “John_Doe_Resume”) and choose the ".docx" format.

2. Export as a PDF: It's often recommended to send resumes as PDFs to ensure that the formatting remains consistent across different devices. To do this, go to "File" > "Save As" and select "PDF" from the drop-down menu.

Step 6: Review and Edit

Before sending out your resume, review it carefully to catch any errors.

 Proofreading Tips:

1. Check for Spelling and Grammar Errors: Use Word's built-in spell check, but also manually review the text for any mistakes the software might miss.

2. Get a Second Opinion: Have a friend or family member review your resume to provide feedback and catch errors you might have overlooked.

3. Read Aloud: Sometimes reading your resume out loud can help you catch awkward phrasing or missing information.

Tips for Constructing a Winning Resume

Constructing a resume is a crucial step in landing a job, and employing effective strategies can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create a compelling resume that showcases your skills and experience in the best possible light.

 1. Understand the Job Requirements

- Analyze the Job Description: Carefully read the job listing to identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Highlight the keywords and requirements mentioned in the job description.

- Customize Your Resume: Adjust your resume to align with these requirements. Ensure that your most relevant experiences and skills are prominent.

 2. Choose the Right Resume Format

Popular formats.

- Chronological: Lists your work experience in reverse chronological order. Ideal for those with a strong work history in the field.

- Functional: Focuses on skills and experiences rather than job titles. Best for career changers or those with gaps in employment.

- Combination: Merges elements of both chronological and functional formats. Useful for those with relevant skills and a solid work history.

Select the Format That Best Suits Your Experience

- Chronological: Best if you have a steady career progression.

- Functional: Ideal if you want to emphasize specific skills or if you’re entering a new industry.

- Combination: Suitable if you have a strong skill set and relevant experience.

 3. Craft a Compelling Professional Summary

Create an attention-grabbing summary.

- Professional Summary: Start with a brief, compelling statement about your career goals and what you bring to the table. Focus on your achievements and skills.

- Objective Statement (Optional): An alternative to the summary, this can outline your career goals and what you hope to achieve in the role.

Tips for Writing a Summary

- Be Concise: Keep it to 2-4 sentences.

- Focus on Achievements: Highlight your most notable accomplishments and skills.

 4. Showcase Relevant Work Experience

Detail your work history.

- Job Entries: Include your job title, company name, location, and dates of employment.

- Responsibilities and Achievements: Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and highlight achievements with quantifiable results (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”).

Use Action Verbs

- Start Bullet Points with Action Verbs: Words like “managed,” “developed,” “led,” and “implemented” convey your role effectively.

Quantify Achievements

- Add Numbers: Whenever possible, use figures to illustrate your impact (e.g., “Reduced customer complaints by 30%”).

 5. Highlight Your Skills

Create a skills section.

- Relevant Skills: List skills that are directly related to the job you're applying for. This can include technical skills, software proficiency, and soft skills.

- Use Keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Soft Skills vs. Hard Skills

- Hard Skills: Specific, teachable abilities (e.g., programming languages, certifications).

- Soft Skills: Personal attributes (e.g., communication, leadership) that are important for job performance.

 6. Include Education and Certifications

Detail your academic background.

- Education Section: List your degrees, including the institution name, degree type, and graduation date. Mention any relevant coursework if it pertains to the job.

Certifications and Training

- Relevant Certifications: Include certifications or training that are relevant to the position. List the certification name, issuing organization, and date received.

 7. Incorporate Additional Sections

- Volunteer Work: If relevant to the job or industry, include volunteer experiences.

- Awards and Honors: Mention any relevant awards or recognitions.

- Professional Affiliations: List memberships in professional organizations.

- Languages: Include languages spoken and proficiency levels.

 8. Use Effective Formatting

Maintain a professional appearance.

- Font Choice: Use a clean, professional font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

- Font Size: Keep it readable, typically between 10-12 points for body text.

- Margins and Spacing: Use standard margins (1 inch) and ensure there is enough white space to make the resume easy to read.

Design Considerations

- Consistency: Ensure consistent formatting throughout (e.g., bullet points, headings).

- Avoid Overly Creative Designs: Keep the layout simple and professional, unless applying for a design-related position.

 9. Proofread and Edit

Ensure accuracy.

- Check for Errors: Proofread for spelling and grammatical errors. Mistakes can detract from your professionalism.

- Consistency: Ensure that dates, job titles, and formatting are consistent.

Get Feedback

- Ask for a Review: Have a friend, family member, or mentor review your resume for feedback and to catch errors you might have missed.

 10. Keep it Updated

- Review Periodically: Update your resume regularly to reflect new experiences, skills, and accomplishments.

- Tailor for Each Application: Customize your resume for each job application to align with specific job requirements and highlight relevant experiences.

By following these strategies, you can craft a resume that effectively showcases your skills and experiences while aligning with the job you're applying for. A well-constructed resume not only increases your chances of landing an interview but also sets a positive tone for your job application process. Good luck!

Conclusion: Final Thoughts

Creating a resume in Microsoft Word is a straightforward process when you know where to start. By using templates and customizing them with your unique information, you can create a professional resume that stands out to potential employers. Remember to tailor your resume to each job application, emphasizing the experiences and skills that are most relevant to the position. Good luck with your job search!

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How to Write a Resume Job Description (Examples Included!)

Hiring managers receive anywhere from dozens to even thousands of resumes and job applications daily. That's why a well-crafted resume is crucial to helping you stand out from the competition. And your experience section in particular—where your resume job descriptions live—really needs to shine.

This section highlights your previous experiences—whether in a formal job, internship , volunteer work , or other roles—demonstrating your achievements and capabilities.

To make an impact, you need to strategically tailor your experiences and skills to align with the job you’re applying for, showing recruiters that you’re a perfect fit for the role.

Below, you'll find key tips on how to write job descriptions for resumes and examples to guide you through it.

Get that resume out there! Browse open jobs on The Muse and find your dream job »

Job descriptions for resumes: Why does it matter?

When you apply for jobs , you'll see a description of the role and what the company is looking for. To really stand out, your resume should match those requirements as closely as possible. That’s where the job description section comes in handy. It’s your chance to highlight past experiences and make sure they align with the job you’re aiming for.

Your resume job description should include:

• Company name
• Date of employment
• Responsibilities and achievements

Of course, this section alone won't land you a job—your whole resume should be written to impress the recruiters. However, when you're an experienced professional, even if you're not a senior in your position yet, well-written job descriptions can at least guarantee you some interviews .

How to write a resume job description in 4 steps

The following tips will give you some insights into what this section of your resume should look like—and what hiring managers are looking for in candidates' resumes.

1. Start with a clear heading

If you're not new to resume building, you probably know that each section of the file should have a heading . It should be clear and concise, telling the recruiter exactly what they're going to read next.

Here are some examples:

Work Experience

• Professional Experience

2. Lay out basic info about your role

Next step is filling out the experience section —or whatever you decide to name it—with your professional background. You'll always start with basic information from each job (or internship, volunteer work, and such), like your title, the company name, location, and date of employment.

For example:

Sales associate

Orlando, FL

July 2022-August 2024

You can change the order as you see fit—for instance, putting the company name first and your title second. However, it's important to keep the same formatting throughout the resume, so be sure your choice works well for every experience.

There's no set amount of experiences you should include in your resume. But keep in mind that, ideally, it should only have relevant and recent experience, listed in reverse chronological order (from the most recent to the least recent). Additionally, most recruiters prefer a one- to two-page resume , max.

3. List achievements instead of tasks

Now, it's time to write the actual job descriptions. It's typically ideal to use bullet points and one to two sentences for each. As a standard, most resume templates have three to four bullet points for each experience, but you can use more (or less) as long as the information is relevant and you're not simply trying to fill out the page.

In describing your role, avoid falling into the trap of only listing job responsibilities. Muse career coach Andrea Gerson says that candidates should expand task-focused language into action-driven, accomplishment-oriented information.

For example, instead of writing “Performed X, Y, and Z,” try “Performed X, Y, and Z, which led to [achievements].” “This information showcases your capabilities—which is exactly what employers want to see,” Gerson says.

A commonly used formula to describe accomplishments within your roles is the context-scope-outcome strategy. You start with action verbs , show how you fulfilled each responsibility, and finish with an achievement that resulted from those actions. If possible, present your achievement with a quantifier , meaning metrics or numerical data that illustrates the impact of your work.

If you have a hard time identifying your impactful actions and accomplishments within your job responsibilities, Gerson suggests asking yourself these contextual questions:

• What was the setting I was working in?
• Was it a fast-paced pizzeria? If so, how many customers were served on a daily/weekly basis?
• If it's a smaller company that's not very well-known, what products or services did they provide?
• What was their scope of operations? Local, regional, global?
• Who was their target customer base?

4. Describe the company in the first bullet point

Your resume job description could also benefit from including some relevant context about the companies you previously worked for, such industry, size, or differentiating factors. You can add this info within the first bullet of a position—which is called an introductory bullet.

“These introductory bullets should highlight your most impressive or transferable responsibilities in the context of the company that you were working for,” Gerson says. The following job responsibilities templates show examples of introductory bullets you can adjust for your resume:

• “Contributed to [ achievement, outcome ] on behalf of [ company ]”
• “Managed key aspects of [ project responsibilities ] for [ company ]”
• “Assisted in [ a project ] on for [ company ]”

Here are examples of how these templates would look like filled out:

• “Billed 50 clients on behalf of the company's national and international enterprise clients ”
• “Managed key aspects of product development and management on for the national launching a hair care brand ”
• “Assisted in the development of the rebranding and repositioning of a dating app with 5+ million users for a international tech company ”

Bonus tip: Use keywords from the open job description

These days, most hiring managers use application tracking systems (ATSs) to segment and quickly scan resumes to select the best based on their similarity to the open job description. This similarity is determined by keywords .

Keywords are specific phrases or terms within a job description precisely used to describe or explain responsibilities, skills, abilities, and knowledge the employer is looking for. These terms usually repeat throughout the job listing, signaling their importance for that specific role.

For this reason, you should do your best to incorporate keywords from the open job description on your resume, wherever it accurately reflects your prior work experience. “It not only makes your resume stronger but encourages you to think deeply about what the position is asking for and how your skills match,” says Muse career coach Lauren Wethers .

Review the job description you want to apply for and segment phrases that explain the specific duties or skills required for the role, which could be technical skills or transferable skills. For example:

If the company's job description for an account manager says:

The employee responsibilities are:

• Creating a market specific sales plan that meets set sales goals
• Educate the community on the company's values
• Meeting regularly with sales market's customers to understand their needs
• Identifying local marketing needs to enhance presence and grow sales

You could write your job description like this:

• Created a market specific sales plan to meet company's set sales goals for a skincare brand
• Educated the community on the company's value by meeting regularly with customers to understand their needs
• Enhanced presence and sales by 20% by identifying local marketing needs and implementing a new sales strategy

Be sure to use the exact same language as is used in the open job description, because the ATS machine might not understand synonyms. “The computer doesn't know the difference between ‘coached’ and ‘advised’ on your resume—it's looking for one over the other,” Wethers says.

Resume job description: Examples

Here are some examples of job descriptions for resumes for different roles you can adapt for yourself:

Example #1: Cashier job description for resume

Head Cashier

Star Market

Oct 2021 - Jan 2024

• Streamlined checkout and return transactions on behalf of a multinational chain with 10+ locations in Florida working simultaneously
• Supervised and trained front-end cashiers for two consecutive years, enhancing 15% crew performance in PoS transactions and reducing shrink
• Provided excellent customer service and assistance to customers, processing 155+ transactions per shift while identifying selling opportunities for cross and up-sells
• Balanced cash drawers with a 98% monthly accuracy, handling $119,000 of annual revenue

Example #2: Server job description for resume

Restaurant Server & Crew Member

Blu Trattoria

Jan 2022 - February 2023

• Performed table management on behalf of a family-owned, award-winning Italian restaurant from downtown Denver
• Picked up and delivered patrons' orders from the bar and kitchen, satisfying +75 patrons per shift
• Collaborated with Head Chef to streamline order communication processes, inventory shortages, and event assistance, reducing 25% of overall waiting time
• Provided excellent customer service with a 96% NPS while calculating multiple patron’s accounts & payments through cash, PoS, and e-wallets

Example #3: Customer service job description for resume

Customer service representative

May 2017 - July 2022

• Responded to thousands of calls each month on behalf of one of the fastest-growing CMS companies worldwide, generating 15% in revenue or serving 5.000 customers each year
• Worked closely with the IT division to address and resolve a high volume of customer issues pertaining to software functionality and technical issues, achieving a 97% NPS score
• Contributed to the development and implementation of upselling and cross-selling strategies which led to over $35,000 in new annual revenue
• Leveraged CRM tools to improve response times by nearly 25%, impacting nearly 1.000 customers/accounts

Example #4: Sales associate job description for resume

Sales Associate

Blake Auto Co.

Portland, OR

Jun 2018 - April 2024

• Managed sales initiatives on behalf of Fortune 500 manufacturing companies generating over $12M in annual revenue, specializing in car sales
• Achieved 35% increase in lead conversion rates, working to qualify over 500 customers each month
• Negotiated contracts valued at up to $1 million, interfacing with 35+ major accounts

Example #5: Caregiver job description for resume

Senior Caregiver

Rainfall Care Nursing Center

Oct 2015 - March 2019

• Worked with over 50 adults on behalf of a specialized health center, focusing on cardiac patients
• Worked closely with patients and family members to ensure high quality of life, providing weekly reports on the patient's health status
• Contributed to 45% reduction in emergency room visits during tenure, closely monitoring patient conditions throughout short-term and long-term stays

Example #6: Housekeeping job description for resume

Apartment Housekeeper

Fresh Clean Agency

Raleigh, NC

Feb 2013 - Sep 2016

• Provided monthly housekeeping services on behalf of a specialized cleaning agency for apartments and small houses
• Cleaned over 150 apartments and houses resulting in a satisfaction rate of 97%
• Achieved a 95% rate of returning clients by performing cleaning and maintenance tasks, along with preferred requests solicited by clients
• Assured high-standard quality cleaning process on each property, decreasing by 15% the agency’s average apartment turnaround time

Bottom line

Writing resume job descriptions can seem difficult at first, but the key is going beyond responsibilities to list accomplishments , starting with a strong action verb (e.g. “implemented,” “created,” “managed”) and following up with quantifiable results. Remember to only include experiences that are relevant for the position you're applying for, use keywords from the job listing, and use a simple and clean formatting to make your resume ATS-friendly. That’s all there is to it—now go out there and get that dream job !

How to create an impressive high school resume

Essential components of a high school resume.

Ready to help your teen start writing their resume? Be sure to include these key elements to create a well-rounded and compelling resume.

Personal details

Start with the basics. Include your teen’s full name, contact information, and a professional email address. Ensure these details are clear and easy to find at the top of the resume.

Education and academic achievements

List the school name, expected graduation date, and any academic honors. You might also want to include their relevant coursework or any projects they’ve worked on that have equipped them with specific skills or knowledge.

Extracurricular activities

Encourage your teen to include activities that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and initiative. This section can cover everything from sports and clubs to volunteer work and community service.

Work experience

Even if they haven't held a formal job, part-time work , babysitting, or tutoring can show responsibility and work ethic. Describe their role and any skills gained.

Skills and interests

List skills that are relevant to the positions or programs they are applying for. These could range from technical skills, like proficiency in a certain platform, to soft skills, like communication or problem-solving abilities.

Tips for creating a standout high school resume

Follow these strategies to make your high school resume shine and leave a lasting impression.

Keep it concise

An ideal high school resume should be one page long. Use bullet points to present information clearly and concisely.

Use action verbs

Start bullet points with strong action verbs to make achievements sound more dynamic and impactful. Words like "led," "organized," and "created" can add punch to their descriptions.

Tailor the resume

Customize the resume for each opportunity. Highlight the experiences and skills most relevant to the specific role or program.

Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A polished resume reflects attention to detail and professionalism.

Common mistakes to avoid

When crafting a resume, it's important to present the best version of yourself while avoiding common pitfalls that can diminish its impact.

Overloading with information

Too much information can overwhelm the reader. Focus on quality over quantity, listing experiences that truly showcase your teen's strengths.

Neglecting non-academic interests

Colleges and employers value well-rounded individuals. Include hobbies and interests that show personality and potential.

Using an unprofessional email address

Make sure the email address is appropriate and easy to associate with your teen's name.

Why a high school resume matters

A high school resume is more than just a list of accomplishments. It’s a snapshot of your teen's educational journey, showcasing their unique strengths and interests. This document serves as a tool to communicate their potential and readiness for new challenges. Developing a resume early on helps them reflect on their experiences, set goals, and gain confidence in their abilities.

Putting together a high school resume doesn't have to be daunting. With a clear structure and thoughtful content, your teen can present themselves in the best light possible. This process not only helps them prepare for future opportunities but also builds their confidence as they step into the next chapter of their lives.

Want more tips and tricks to make parenting a breeze? Check out Greenlight's Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.

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How to Write a Good Summary for a CV: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Career Advice

• Posted On: 2024-09-12
• Posted By: Shacara

1. Understand the Purpose of a CV Summary

• Capture the hiring manager’s interest immediately.
• Offer a clear overview of your qualifications.
• Highlight your most relevant experience and achievements.
• Create a first impression that encourages the reader to explore your CV further.

2. Know When to Include a CV Summary

• Are an experienced professional with many years of relevant experience.
• Are changing careers and need to highlight transferable skills.
• Want to emphasize specific accomplishments or leadership roles.

3. Keep It Short and Concise

4. tailor it to the job you’re applying for.

• If the role requires project management experience, mention your track record in managing projects.
• If they’re seeking a skilled communicator, emphasize your strong communication abilities.

5. Include Keywords

6. highlight your unique selling points.

• Industry-specific expertise.
• Notable achievements or awards.
• Specific skills that are in high demand.
• Key attributes that make you an exceptional candidate (e.g., leadership, problem-solving, innovation).

7. Showcase Your Top Achievements

• "Led a team of 10 in the successful execution of a $1M project, completed 2 months ahead of schedule."
• "Increased sales by 30% within the first year by developing and implementing a new marketing strategy."

8. Use Strong Action Words

9. focus on relevance, 10. proofread for clarity and accuracy, 11. examples of strong cv summaries, 12. final thoughts, get ahead of the competition.

Make your job applications stand-out from other candidates.

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