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Definition of resume

 (Entry 1 of 2)

transitive verb

intransitive verb

Definition of résumé  (Entry 2 of 2)

• proceed (with)
• encapsulation
• recapitulation
• run-through
• summarization

Examples of resume in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'resume.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French resumer , from Latin resumere , from re- + sumere to take up, take — more at consume

French résumé , from past participle of résumer to resume, summarize, from Middle French resumer

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

1782, in the meaning defined at sense 2

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“Resume.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/resume. Accessed 4 Sep. 2024.

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What is a Resume? Definition, Structure, Purpose, Types & Meaning

In This Guide:

Reverse chronological resume format, functional/skills-based resume format, hybrid resume format.

• Resume Templates

Personal Details and Contact Information

Resume introduction, work experience and achievements, education section, additional sections.

You want to get a job and that’s just great! But as you start thinking about it, hundreds of questions pop up in your head.

“How do I write my resume?”, “What is a resume”, “What is a cover letter” and even more and more hanging there. Don’t worry, we are here to help you and get you good and ready to start your journey.

We are going to cover some basic topics like:

• What is a resume
• Resume format and layout

As well as some more advanced ones like:

• Resume structure
• Design and formatting tips
• Dos and Don'ts
• Cover letter

This article is mainly for the basics, so if you want more advanced tips and tricks, you can also learn how to Make Your Resume Stand Out .

But if you are searching for the basics only, that’s the right place!

So let’s dive in.

What is a resume?

The resume is your absolute must if you are looking for a job.

Your resume defines who you are in the eyes of your potential employer and is the most important document in your job application, followed by the cover letter.

But probably you are asking yourself: what is a resume?

In simple words: A resume is a formal document that a job applicant creates to itemize their qualifications for a position. It usually includes work experience, education, skills and any other relevant information you want to share with your future employer.

We need to note the fact that a resume is different from a curriculum vitae (CV).

The CV shows your complete work experience, education, skill set, and anything else you have done, no matter the length of the document, while the resume’s goal is to present anything relevant in a clear and easy-to-read format.

Unlike a CV, a resume should be modified for each and every job position, so that it would be as relevant as possible, and it should not exceed 1-2 pages.

The goal of your resume is to quickly and effectively show your potential employer why you are uniquely qualified for their job opening, based on your relevant experience and skills.

Preparation before writing a resume

As we said earlier, a resume should be kept short and to the point, it should only include relevant information for the job position.

The easiest way to perfect your resume writing is to get started with some preparation.

What you need to do is get a list of:

• Accomplishments from previous jobs
• Your skill set - soft, hard and technical skills
• Details about your previous jobs
• Details about your education
• Certifications, awards and honors
• Anything else that you might want to include in your resume at one point

Don’t worry about the writing, just focus on the relevance to the job position of everything you write down.

Once you are done, step away. Give it a few hours.

And when you are well rested again, come back to it with fresh eyes and perfect your writing.

Format and Layout

Now you have everything you might want to include in your future resumes, all in one place, and that’s great!

But there is just one more thing to do before we start filling each section with information.

And that’s a pretty important step - choosing the format and sticking to a good layout.

Don’t worry, we got you covered, and we will go through the 3 main resume formats.

A reverse chronological resume format is the most popular one out there.

It has the great advantage of being suitable for pretty much every job position.

This format is mostly career-oriented - it lists your work history in order, as the most recent position would be at the top.

It is the ideal format for people with lots of work experience, relevant to the job position they are applying for.

Check out some of our great examples - Reverse Chronological Resume .

But if you don’t feel confident that your work experience is relevant enough, don’t worry, the next resume format would be perfect for you.

As opposed to the reverse chronological resume, the functional resume format is mainly focused on your skill set.

It is the perfect choice for you if you are looking for your first job or career change, or if you are trying to steer away the employer’s focus from a gap in your employment history.

The great thing about the functional resume format is that it groups your skills in categories and presents them in a great and easy-to-read format.

Check out some examples to form a better idea of what the function resume format is - Functional Resume .

You are not convinced that this is your format either? We have one last format for you and it is guaranteed to work!

As its name shows, this resume format combines all the best features of the reverse chronological and the functional resume.

What it includes is both a reverse chronological work history section, and a highly detailed skill section.

It’s mostly used for job positions that require expertise in a variety of fields, and you want to show that you are the right person for the job.

Get a better understanding of the combination resume format with these examples - Hybrid Resume .

Great, you picked your resume format, now let’s focus on one last thing - the layout .

There are a few important points that you need to follow in order to do this part right.

First, keep it short and to the point. One page is what you need. Don’t go for 2 pages, unless you are absolutely sure that it would add some significant value.

Pick the right font and font size:

• Your font should stand out, but not too much, so you can go for Ubuntu, Roboto and Overpass, but don’t ever try Comic Sans.
• Keep your text between 11 and 12pt, so that it would be easy to read
• Pick a heading type (H1, H2…) and stick with it for all sections. Use between 14 and 16pt so that titles would stand out a little more

To ensure that your resume would look good, make sure you have sufficient white space between sections and appropriate margins (at least 0.7 inches)

And last, but not least - save your resume as PDF . It’s going to keep your formatting as it is, no matter what, as opposed to alternatives like Word.

We know that it might be intimidating to process all that information.

But don’t worry, we got you covered.

There are a few main templates that you can stick to, according to the type of resume you are trying to achieve.

The first, and most multifunctional format, is the Basic . You can use it on any occasion, but it is not specifically concentrated on any section, so if you want to focus on something more, keep reading, we’ve got more for you.

If you just graduated from college and don’t have much experience, you might want to focus more on your education and skills, rather than anything else, so you would want to use the College Resume Example .

We mentioned earlier the functional resume format, we have some examples for you to check out: Function Resume Template .

The other resume templates you can check out, according to your goal are:

• Infographic Resume Template
• Minimalist Resume Template
• Modern Resume Template
• Timeline Resume Template
• Traditional Resume Template
• Two-column Resume Template

Check them all and win the resume game.

Resume Structure

Okay, we are doing great so far!

Let’s dive into all the different sections your resume can have .

Believe it or not, this is the most critical section of your resume.

No matter how well you did everything, how skilled and experienced you are, the HR won’t ever call you in for an interview if you misspelled your phone number.

This section should be on the top of your resume and must include your name, email and phone number. The mailing address is mandatory.

Your name should be highly visible with bolder or larger font than the rest of the document.

As you want to look professional in the eyes of your potential employer, make sure your email address sounds professional. Consider creating a new email account if you currently use an outdated email service.

You can also include a portfolio if you are applying for creative positions, or a LinkedIn profile, but make sure you make it a strong one.

If you feel like more tips on the topic would be of use, check out Contact Information on Resume .

And last, as we stated in the beginning of this section - make sure your contact information is correct. You should double-check it, and even triple-check it and make sure everything is correct and up-to-date.

This is a very small part of your overall resume, but it is an extremely important one.

As it is one of the first things a hiring manager would see when looking at your resume, you need to perfect it.

What it actually is, is a short statement in two or three sentences. It’s a description of who you are as a candidate.

A well-written introduction can grab the hiring manager’s attention and multiply your chances of getting the job you applied for.

It’s not a deal-breaker if you skip this section and decide you don’t need it, but that short statement on top of your resume can really be key for getting called for an interview.

The work experience is the heart of your resume.

The first thing the hiring manager would look for are the job titles and the companies you have worked for. Make sure this information is easy to find.

The basics of this section should include:

• Job position
• Location of the Company
• Dates of employment

But no matter how impressive your work experience, compressed in these 4 points, it might not be good enough for the employer.

Employers don’t want only basic information, they are much more interested in the impact you had on the companies you previously worked for.

Results matter and numbers are important.

No matter what were your previous positions, there is always some metric that can show your potential employer you had a significant impact.

Perfect this section by checking out - Work Experience Section .

Having a clear education section is essential for your resume, especially if your work experience is limited, or you have just graduated.

If you don’t have much work experience, but your track record in school is good, consider making your education section highly-detailed and include all your education-related accomplishments .

On the contrary, if you have a few years of work experience, your education section should shrink down to the basics.

In most cases, listing the school name, the attendance years and your degree would be enough.

If you want to go deeper in this section’s topic, check out - Education Section .

Before starting this section, we need to define the difference between the two main types of skills - soft and hard.

Hard Skills

Using simple words, a hard skill is one that can be learned, taught, or measured and is not dependent on your industry.

Examples of such skills are any language or computer skills, or ability to operate heavy machinery.

Soft Skills

A soft skill is a personality trait that is hard to measure but that makes you great at your job.

Examples of such skills are being a team player, being driven to succeed, or having a great attitude.

Now that we have defined both types of skills, it’s pretty much up to you to decide which ones to include on your resume.

The important thing is to list them clearly, so it would be easy for the hiring manager to see them and note them.

If they see right away the skills that they seek, they are much more likely to take your resume under consideration.

As this section is very important, but somewhat complex, we recommend you look into it a little more - Skills Section .

If you have gone this far, you know all the basics you need for your resume.

There are a few more sections that you can add to your resume, if you think they would contribute in some way, or if you consider your resume still incomplete.

Certifications, Awards, & Honors

This section can potentially be very important, but you really need to show something impressive, if you decide to go for it.

If your potential employer needs to see some specific certifications, make sure you know which ones to include in your resume before you send it, because leaving some out could potentially ruin your application by making you seem unqualified.

In any other case, if you feel like some certification, award or honor would be relevant in your resume, feel free to include it.

If you would like to read a little more on the topic - Certifications on Resume .

And feel free to add any other section that you feel would help your hiring process.

Here are a few sections that you can consider:

• Publications
• Volunteering
• Hobbies & Interests

Tailor Your Information to the Job Ad

So far, so good.

Now we need to remember once again that the resume’s purpose is to be fitted for a specific job position.

So don’t forget to make it so, don’t send out the same resume for a variety of different positions, because it just won’t work.

The most important thing to do here is to adjust the keywords, especially in your skills section.

Show the employer that the skill set you have is perfectly fitted to the company’s needs.

You should also consider modifying your work experience and education sections, depending on the job requirements.

But all in all - focus on the keywords for each and every job position you are applying for.

Cover Letter

Okay, you seem to be all done with your resume.

So you might be asking yourself - I have a great resume, do I need a cover letter?

The answer is always - yes, if you have the option.

Cover letters may be crucial in the hiring process because they let you provide context for your resume.

Furthermore, they let you show off your personality and your enthusiasm for the job you are applying for.

A well-written cover letter can really boost your application and be the game-changer in your hiring project, so don’t hesitate to learn How to Tell a Story in a Cover Letter .

We reached the end of our topic, but don’t relax just yet, because this is an important one.

Typos and grammatical errors are the most common mistakes found in resumes.

And quite often they are a dealbreaker for the employer.

So don’t skip out on proofreading and do it right.

Here are some tips to be sure your resume would be mistake-free:

• Try reading your resume backwards (it can help you identify errors by presenting the words in a new order)
• Ask trusted friends, colleagues, professors and family members if they can review your resume (third-party opinions can help reveal new information you might have overlooked)
• Try reading the resume a few times, but at different times of the day (it would clear up your mind and help you identify mistakes, you didn’t see before)

And, of course, don’t forget the layout recommendations we gave you before - check your font and font sizes.

One final thing - if your resume is more than one page, review it once again and try to shorten it to one page.

Takeaways: What is a resume?

We are all done.

Now you know the difference between a Resume and a CV.

You also learned the basics of writing your Resume and modifying it according to the job position.

You have in your knowledge the most important dos and don'ts for writing a Resume, and you’ve got a great variety of links to deepen your knowledge for every step of the writing process.

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Resume length: how long should a resume be in 2024, how do you respond to a resume received email, how do you write a phone number on a resume, cover letter design: 5+ tips & examples for success, 12 of the most popular dream jobs.

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What Is a Resume?

Understanding a resume, the resume heading, resume trouble spots, changing times for resumes, what you should not put on a resume, the bottom line.

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What Is a Resume? Its Purpose and What Should Not Be on Yours

Katrina Ávila Munichiello is an experienced editor, writer, fact-checker, and proofreader with more than fourteen years of experience working with print and online publications.

Investopedia / Jiaqi Zhou

A resume is a formal document that a job applicant creates to itemize their qualifications for a position. A resume is usually accompanied by a customized cover letter in which the applicant expresses an interest in a specific job or company and draws attention to the most relevant specifics on the resume.

American job coaches insist that a resume should be only one or two pages in length. British job applicants traditionally are expected to produce a somewhat more detailed document called a CV (curriculum vitae).

Key Takeaways

• Nowadays, resumes are typically sent by email or as part of an online application.
• The traditional one- to two-page limit for a resume stands, but nothing prevents you from attaching a brief video introduction or other illustration if it is relevant and enhances your presentation.
• It's smart to rewrite your resume to tailor it to a specific job you're seeking.

A resume is almost always required for applicants to office jobs. They are the first step taken by corporate recruiters and hiring managers to identify candidates who might be invited to interview for a position.

Successful resumes highlight specific accomplishments applicants have achieved in former positions, such as cutting costs, transcending sales goals, increasing profits, and building out teams. 

There are many formats for resumes, with many variations for particular professions such as investment banking and the fashion trade.

Whatever the format, most resumes include a brief summary of skills and experience, followed by a bullet list of previous jobs in reverse chronological order and a list of degrees earned.

A final section might be added to highlight specific skills, such as fluency in a foreign language, knowledge of computer languages, professionally useful hobbies, professional affiliations, and any honors achieved.

Brevity, a clean layout, and succinct language all are prized. People who have to sort through hundreds of resumes have short attention spans.

The heading on the resume should include not only your name, email address, and mobile phone number but also your address on LinkedIn or another professional community and the address of your website or blog if you have one.

Be aware that any hiring manager will, as a matter of course, enter your name in the Google search field. Do a search on your own and see if you can optimize your own results or at least decently bury any youthful faux pas.

Recruiters examine job histories for significant employment gaps or a pattern of job-hopping. Be prepared to explain either, whether in a cover letter or during an interview. An applicant with a history of short-lived jobs might consider omitting a few of the oldest ones, especially if they aren't relevant to the current job opening.

For example, if you spent years working behind a counter in food service, then went back to school to earn physical therapy credentials, forget some of those early jobs in food service. Flesh out the sections that report your skills , training, and experience in the field that's now your specialty. You can mention those other jobs in the interview while explaining what a reliable professional you are.

The past can be particularly dangerous for applicants to new technology companies seeking to assemble cutting-edge teams. Legacy skills may imply obsolescence. The most powerful resumes underline how an applicant can thrive in the job that's open right now.

It goes without saying that resumes these days are delivered as email attachments or uploaded for an online application, not printed out and mailed.

Although the two-page maximum still stands, many applicants use the web to its full potential when it comes to attachments. Video introductions, charts, graphs, and other illustrations can make you stand out, so long as they're relevant and slickly made.

There is so much talk about what should be in your resume, but there are also some things that ought to be kept off the page. First, and most importantly, are your age, marital status, and the number of children you may have. While a potential employer might be able to deduce this information via a web search, it isn't relevant for a job application.

In addition, do not list your current salary, religion, political beliefs, or any personal details (like your hobbies), unless that information is required for the job in question.

What Are Common Resume Mistakes?

Common resume mistakes include typos, vague details without a lack of specifics, either being too long in detail or too short, grammatical errors, poor verb usage, impertinent information, and not including enough information on skills.

Should I Create More Than One Resume?

This depends on whether you are applying for different types of jobs. For example, if you are applying for an office manager job, you should tailor your resume to outline your leadership and organizational skills. But you might also be interested in applying for a retail position, so creating a second resume that instead highlights any retail experience that you have will put you in a better position to get that job.

What If I Do Not Have Any Work Experience?

You can still create a strong resume even if you do not have any professional work experience. Your resume can include any volunteer work you have done and the responsibilities you had during this time. If you are still in school, you can also list any academic organizations you are a part of and any offices and responsibilities you're holding.

Your resume is what gets you the job interview. It's the first step in getting hired. So you want to spend plenty of time making sure it's professional, represents who you are, is void of mistakes, does not contain superfluous information, and highlights why you would be the best candidate for the job.

Your resume should be recent and contain only the most important information; remove anything else. If you've been working for two decades, employers aren't interested in your high school GPA or any internships you had during college. Keep it concise, interesting, and impressive, and you'll be sure to get a response from companies.

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What is a Resume? The Ultimate Guide to Resumes

A resume is a document that summarizes an individual’s education, work experience, achievements, and skills. It is often the first point of contact between a job seeker and a potential employer.

A well-crafted resume is essential for job seekers to stand out from the competition. It is a marketing tool that sells an individual’s skills and abilities to potential employers. A carefully tailored resume that highlights relevant experience and skills can greatly increase a candidate’s chances of securing an interview and landing a job.

Brief history of resumes

Resumes have evolved over time, from handwritten personal summaries to today’s digital, keyword-optimized versions. The use of resumes dates back to the Middle Ages, with Leonardo da Vinci believed to have created the first known resume. In the 20th century, resumes became standard practice as the workforce grew and job applications became more formalized. With the rise of electronic resumes and online job searching, resumes have continued to adapt to new technologies and trends.

Resume Formats

A resume format is the presentation style you choose for your resume. There are three popular resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination.

A. Chronological

Explanation of chronological format:  The chronological resume format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order with the most recent job first. It focuses on job titles, employers, dates of employment, and job responsibilities. It is the most traditional and widely used format.

When to use chronological format:  Use the chronological format if you have a solid work history with no significant gaps in employment, and you want to highlight your career progression and accomplishments. It’s also effective if you’re targeting a job that is similar to your current or previous jobs.

B. Functional

Explanation of functional format:  The functional resume format emphasizes your skills and achievements rather than your work history. It highlights your relevant skills and abilities in a separate section that captures the attention of the reader.

When to use functional format:  Use the functional format if you have gaps in your employment history, are changing careers, or have limited work experience. It’s also effective if you have a lot of relevant experience that is not directly related to your previous job titles.

C. Combination

Explanation of combination format:  The combination resume format blends the features of chronological and functional formats. It presents your work history in reverse chronological order and emphasizes your relevant skills and achievements.

When to use a combination format:  Use the combination format if you have a solid work history with relevant experience and accomplishments that are not necessarily reflected in your job titles or descriptions. It’s also effective if you want to highlight your transferable skills and achievements relevant to the job you’re targeting while providing a detailed work history.

It’s essential to choose the best resume format that suits your career goals, job level, and work experience. Carefully consider each format’s advantages and disadvantages before deciding which resume format to use.

Resume Components

When it comes to crafting a winning resume, there are five core components that you need to include. Here’s everything you need to know about each one:

A. Contact Information

Your contact information is the very first thing that should appear on your resume. Without it, recruiters won’t be able to reach out to you for interviews. Make sure you include your full name, email address, phone number, and mailing address (optional).

B. Professional Summary or Objective Statement

Your professional summary or objective statement is a brief, high-level overview of your experience, skills, and career goals. This section should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for, and should give the reader a clear sense of what makes you uniquely qualified for the role.

C. Work Experience

Your work experience is the heart of your resume. This section should include a list of your previous jobs, along with accompanying details like job titles, company names, dates of employment, and job responsibilities.

1. Explanation of How to List Work Experience

When listing your work experience, start with your most recent job and work backwards. Use bullet points to highlight your most notable accomplishments and responsibilities for each role.

2. Importance of Strong Action Verbs

Using strong, active verbs (like “managed,” “created,” or “led”) can make your work experience section much more impactful. Avoid weak, passive language (like “assisted with” or “was responsible for”).

D. Education

Your education section should include a list of your degrees, along with the school names, dates of attendance, and any academic honors you’ve received. If you have a lot of relevant coursework or certifications, you can include those here as well.

Your skills section is a chance to highlight your core competencies, both technical (hard skills) and interpersonal (soft skills).

1. Explanation of Hard and Soft Skills

Hard skills are specific, measurable abilities that are required for a particular job (like proficiency in a certain programming language). Soft skills are more interpersonal in nature, and include things like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

2. How to Showcase Skills Effectively

When showcasing your skills, be sure to provide concrete examples of how you’ve used them to achieve success in previous roles. Avoid vague or generic statements – the more specific you can be, the better.

Your resume should be a well-crafted representation of your skills, experience, and achievements. By following these guidelines and tailoring your resume to each job you apply for, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job.

Writing a Strong Resume

Crafting a compelling resume is an essential part of any job search. A strong resume showcases your skills, accomplishments, and experience in a way that makes you stand out to potential employers. Here are some tips to help you create a resume that will catch the eye of hiring managers:

A. Tailoring resumes to specific job descriptions

Tailoring your resume to specific job descriptions can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters. When applying for a job, carefully review the job description to identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Then, make sure to highlight those skills and qualifications in your resume.

B. Importance of using metrics and data

Using metrics and data to quantify your accomplishments can make your resume more impactful. For example, if you increased sales revenue or decreased production time, include specific numbers to demonstrate the results of your work. This will show potential employers the impact you can make on their organization.

C. Tips for avoiding common mistakes

To ensure your resume stands out for all the right reasons, avoid common mistakes such as spelling errors or grammatical mistakes. Also, make sure your resume is easy to read and follows a logical format. Keep it concise and highlight your most relevant accomplishments.

D. Examples of strong resumes

One of the best ways to improve your resume is to learn from examples of outstanding resumes. Here are some essential elements of a strong resume:

• A clear objective statement that captures the attention of recruiters
• A concise summary highlighting your most significant achievements and skills
• Relevant work experience and education, presented in a clear and organized way
• Metrics and data to showcase your past accomplishments and demonstrate your potential value to the employer

A strong resume requires time, effort, and attention to detail. By tailoring your resume to specific job descriptions, highlighting your achievements with metrics and data, and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

ATS and Keyword Optimization

A. explanation of ats and the role it plays in the hiring process.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software used by companies to efficiently manage the hiring process. These systems aid in screening, tracking, and managing job applications.

When a job seeker applies through an online portal or email, the resume is first scanned by the ATS, which then filters the applications based on parameters such as education, skills, experience, and keywords.

The hiring managers see only those resumes that have passed the ATS screening, and the system also saves the information of all applicants for future reference. Therefore, optimizing your resume as per the ATS guidelines is essential to ensure that it gets recognized by the system and increases your chances of getting the job.

B. Importance of keyword optimization

ATS scans for keywords that match the job description provided by the employer. To improve your chances of getting through the ATS, it is crucial to include relevant keywords in your resume. Identify the keywords that appear in the job description and tailor your resume accordingly.

Merely copying and pasting the exact same words from the job description, however, is not advisable. It’s important that you integrate the keywords organically and weave them into your resume.

C. How to optimize resumes for ATS and keyword search

Here are some tips on how to optimize your resume for ATS and keyword search.

Use keywords specific to the job: Use keywords that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Identify the keywords in the job description and ensure that you use them in your resume.

Use industry jargon: Industry-specific jargon indicates that you are familiar with industry practices and standards. It will also help you stand out from the rest of the applicants.

Keep formatting simple: Avoid complex formatting like graphics, images, and tables in your resume. Use standard fonts like Times New Roman or Arial and a readable font size of 10-12.

Use bullet points for better readability: Use bullet points to organize your skills and experiences. It ensures that your resume is easy to read, and the information is easily accessible.

Customize your resume: Tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for. Use relevant experience and skills that match the job description.

Optimizing your resume for ATS and keyword search is essential to make it past the initial screening process. It ensures that your accomplishments and experiences are noticed by the hiring manager and increases your chances of getting an interview. Stick to these guidelines, and you’ll be well on your way to crafting a winning resume.

Resume Proofreading and Editing

Once you have completed your resume, it is essential to proofread and edit it thoroughly to avoid any errors and ensure that it presents you in the best possible light. Here are some common mistakes to look out for:

A. Common mistakes to look out for

• Grammatical errors such as misspellings, incorrect verb tenses or articles, and fragmented sentences.
• Inaccurate or inconsistent information, such as incorrect employment dates or job titles.
• Lack of clarity and specificity, making it difficult to understand your qualifications or achievements.
• Formatting issues, such as inconsistent font sizes or styles, poor spacing or alignment, or incorrect headings.

B. Tips for proofreading and editing

Here are some helpful tips for proofreading and editing your resume:

• Take a break after completing your resume to help you approach it with fresh eyes and a clear mind.
• Print out a hard copy and read it aloud, which can help with detecting errors and identifying areas for improvement.
• Use tools like spell-checking and grammar-checking software to catch any mistakes you may have missed.
• Focus on improving the overall readability and flow of your resume. Use clear headings, bullet points, and action verbs to make it easy for the reader to follow.

C. Importance of seeking feedback

Even after you have proofread and edited your resume, seeking feedback from others is critical to ensuring that it presents your best self. Here are some reasons why:

• Another person can provide fresh perspective and catch errors or areas for improvement that you may have missed.
• Feedback can also help you identify any weaknesses in your resume and provide ideas for how to strengthen it.
• Getting feedback from someone who is experienced in the field or industry you are applying to can give you valuable insight into what employers are looking for.

It is essential to put in the time and effort to proofread and edit your resume thoroughly. Taking the extra step of seeking feedback can also help set you apart from other applicants and put you on the path to success in your job search.

Resume Design

When it comes to crafting a winning resume, design is just as important as content. A visually appealing resume can help you stand out from the competition and make a great impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ll explore the importance of a visually appealing resume, best practices for design, and examples of resumes that do it right.

A. Importance of a Visually Appealing Resume

Your resume is often the first impression that potential employers have of you. In fact, many hiring managers spend only a few seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to move on to the next candidate. That’s why it’s crucial to make sure your resume is visually appealing and easy to read.

A visually appealing resume can help you convey your professionalism, attention to detail, and overall skills and experience. By choosing the right fonts, colors, and layout, you can make your resume stand out and grab the reader’s attention.

B. Best Practices for Design

To create a visually appealing resume, there are several best practices to keep in mind:

• Choose an appropriate font size and style that is easy to read.
• Use bullet points and whitespace to make your resume scannable.
• Incorporate your personal brand into your design, such as using your brand colors or logo.
• Avoid using too many different fonts or font styles.
• Keep your resume layout simple and clean.

C. Examples of Visually Appealing Resumes

Here are some examples of visually appealing resumes that showcase the best practices discussed above:

• The Minimalist: This resume features a simple black and white design with plenty of whitespace and bold headings. The font is easy to read and the design is simple yet effective.
• The Creative: This resume uses pops of color to draw attention to key sections and incorporate the candidate’s personal brand. The layout is clean and scannable, making it easy to read.
• The Professional: This resume uses a clean, professional layout with a touch of color to differentiate each section. The font is easy to read and the design is both elegant and functional.

By incorporating these best practices into your resume design and drawing inspiration from these examples, you can create a visually appealing resume that gives you the best chance of landing the job you want.

Cover Letters

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It is essentially a summary of your skills and experience, and explains why you are the perfect candidate for the job.

A strong cover letter is crucial when applying for a job, as it helps you stand out from other candidates. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your skills, experience and enthusiasm for the position.

Here are some tips for writing a strong cover letter:

• Keep it concise and to the point. Stick to one page and avoid rambling.
• Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight how your skills and experience match the requirements of the job.
• Use a professional tone and avoid informal language or slang.
• Show enthusiasm for the position and the company. Explain why you are interested in working for the company specifically.
• Address the person who will be reading your cover letter by name, if possible.
• Proofread your cover letter carefully for any typos or grammatical errors.

Here are some examples of strong cover letters:

• A cover letter for a marketing job that highlights the candidate’s experience in social media marketing and their enthusiasm for the company’s brand.
• A cover letter for a teaching job that showcases the candidate’s passion for education and their ability to connect with students.
• A cover letter for a sales job that demonstrates the candidate’s track record of exceeding sales targets and their ability to build relationships with clients.
• Do customize your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for.
• Do show enthusiasm for the position and the company.
• Do proofread your cover letter carefully for any errors.

Don’ts:

• Don’t use informal language or slang.
• Don’t make your cover letter too long or rambling.
• Don’t use a generic cover letter for multiple job applications.

A strong cover letter is an important component of any job application. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a cover letter that helps you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Resume Submission

Once you have polished and perfected your resume, the next step is to submit it to potential employers. This section covers where to submit your resume, the different submission requirements for different companies, and tips for following up after submitting your resume.

A. Where to Submit Resumes

There are several places where you can submit your resume. The most popular option is through online job boards, such as LinkedIn or Glassdoor. You can also submit your resume directly to a company’s career page or via email to a hiring manager or recruiter. Additionally, you may choose to work with a staffing agency, which can provide further assistance in your job search.

B. Different Submission Requirements for Different Companies

It’s important to keep in mind that each company may have different submission requirements. Some companies may require you to fill out an online application in addition to submitting your resume, while others may only accept resumes via email. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the company to ensure that your application is considered.

C. Tips for Following up After Submitting a Resume

After submitting your resume, you may be wondering what the next steps are. One important tip is to follow up with the company after a week or two to check on your application status. You can reach out via email or phone and reiterate your interest in the position.

It’s also a good idea to personalize your follow-up message and highlight any relevant experience or qualifications that make you a strong candidate. This shows that you are dedicated to the position and are willing to put in effort to stand out.

Submitting your resume is just the first step in the job search process. By knowing where to submit your resume, following specific company submission requirements, and following up appropriately, you can increase your chances of landing the job of your dreams.

Job Search Strategies

When it comes to job searching, there are several strategies you can use to increase your chances of success. In this section, we’ll provide an overview of some of the most effective strategies to consider.

A. Overview of Different Job Search Strategies

Online job boards:  Websites like Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor allow you to search for job openings based on specific criteria such as location, job title, and salary range. You can also create job alerts to be notified when a new job posting matches your search criteria.

Networking:  This involves reaching out to people in your professional and personal network to learn about potential job opportunities. LinkedIn is a popular social networking site for professionals that can be used for networking purposes.

Recruiting agencies:  These are companies that assist both job seekers and companies looking to hire by matching candidates with open positions.

Direct outreach:  This involves finding companies you’re interested in working for and reaching out to them directly to inquire about open positions or express interest in working for them in the future.

B. Importance of Networking

Networking is often considered one of the most effective job search strategies because it allows you to tap into the “hidden job market” – job openings that aren’t publicly advertised. By building relationships with people in your industry, you may learn about job openings before they are posted on job boards or advertised elsewhere.

Networking can also help you learn about potential employers and gain insight into their company culture and hiring practices. This information can be valuable as you prepare for interviews and evaluate job offers.

C. Tips for Maximizing Job Search Success

Tailor your resume and cover letter:  When applying for jobs, make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the specific position and company you’re applying to. This shows that you’ve taken the time to research the role and company and are genuinely interested in the position.

Prepare for interviews:  Research the company and position you’re interviewing for and prepare responses to common interview questions. Dress professionally and arrive early to the interview.

Follow up:  After an interview, send a thank-you email or note to the interviewer to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.

Be persistent:  Job searching can be a long and frustrating process. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back from companies right away. Follow up regularly (but not too frequently) on your applications and continue networking.

By using a combination of job search strategies, networking, and following these tips, you can increase your chances of success and find the job you’ve been searching for. Good luck!

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Resume vs. Résumé: A Brief Account Of Their Differences

We all have those words that we’ve heard over and over but don’t have the chance to write out all that often. Which can lead to a little bit of confusion when you actually need said word—like handing in your job application with “ resume ” in big letters on top instead of résumé. Or worse, talking about your résumé and pronouncing it resume the entire time: “As you can see on my re-zoom …”

While mixing up resume and résumé will surely lead to some funny looks, there’s a reason the two words get confused: a shared origin and differences between formal and informal writing.

If you’re looking to bolster your résumé, review some of the key action verbs we recommend when writing your résumé.

What does resume mean?

Resume is a verb that means to continue or “to take up or go on with again after interruption.” You can resume watching your favorite TV show after dinner, for example, or you could say that the football game resumed after the storm passed.

The noun form of resume is resumption , which is “the act or fact of taking up or going on with again.” The resumption of activities in nicer weather, for instance.

Resume was first recorded in 1375–1425. It comes from the Latin resūmere. The Latin word can be broken down into re- , a prefix meaning “again, back,” and sūmere, which means “to take.”

The definition is pretty straightforward, but it can get a little more complicated very fast. Resume is also a spelling variant of résumé when the accent marks are dropped (more on that later). You can thank how the English language adopts some French words for that curveball.

What is a résumé ?

A résumé (with the accent marks) is “a brief written account of personal, educational, and professional qualifications and experience, as that prepared by an applicant for a job.” It’s pronounced [  rez – oo -mey ] as opposed to how resume is pronounced [ ri- zoom ].

One could submit their résumé when applying for a graduate school program, for example, or do some extra volunteer work to add to their résumé. Our article on how to write a résumé has the tips and tricks you need, just be sure to use our Grammar Coach™ to make sure you don’t mix up resume and résumé before sending it in.

The word résumé was first recorded in 1795–1805 and originally meant a summary . The English résumé comes directly from the past participle of the French verb resumer, which means to “ sum up .” In French, résumé literally translates to something that has been summed up. The English meaning isn’t all that different when you consider a résumé is just a summary of a person’s education and work experience.

Why is résumé spelled that way?

Sometimes when the English language adopts a word from another language, the accent marks stick. Consider the word café , or déjà vu . The accent marks tell French speakers how to pronounce a vowel. That mark over the E in résumé is called an acute accent and signals that it should be pronounced like “ey.” Accent marks also distinguish two different words that are otherwise homographs.

Do you have the savoir-faire to know when to use a French loanword? Learn about savoir-faire and other French words that made their way into English.

That latter reason is one example of why the accent marks remain in English. A reader would have to rely entirely on context if résumé lacked the accent marks, and relying on context can easily lead to a misreading of the situation.

That said, sometimes the markings are left out in common usage, especially for words that were borrowed from French long ago—they had time to settle in, drop the marks, and assimilate. That’s why, in informal writing, résumé may be spelled resume. Think of it like how some places describe themselves as a café while others use cafe.

As with anything else in communication, it’s important to know your audience. Résumés are typically used when applying for a job or school. Both of those tend toward more formal, so using résumé with the acute accents is a safe bet.

What is a résumé vs. curriculum vitae ?

You may also be asked for a curriculum vitae (or CV for short) instead of a résumé. Using curriculum vitae is more common in British English and in other varieties of English across the world, but it’s not entirely uncommon in American English.

Like a résumé, a curriculum vitae is a summary of work experience and other background information that might be relevant to someone reading a job or school application. A CV is more likely to be asked for in academia than at your average, run-of-the-mill job in the United States. It also typically refers to a much more detailed summary—describing published papers and awards under a job or education heading rather than only listing a title and short description of duties, for instance. The fact that a CV is so comprehensive makes sense, as curriculum vitae  means “course of life” in Latin.

Now, if you landed here while working on your résumé or curriculum vitae to double check that you were using the right accent marks, you can resume with confidence now.

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Other forms: resumed; resuming; resumes

If you resume something, you start it again after stopping. You might resume singing an aria after breaking to spit out your gum.

Resume is from Latin resumere "to take up again, take back," from the prefix re- "again" plus sumere "to take up, take." The Latin verb sumere is formed from the prefix sub- "under, up" plus emere "to take." When you pause a movie or game and then you press play again, what you're really doing is resuming play.

• verb take up or begin anew “We resumed the negotiations” synonyms: re-start , restart see more see less type of: bear on , carry on , continue , preserve , uphold keep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last
• verb return to a previous location or condition “The painting resumed its old condition when we restored it” synonyms: take up see more see less type of: change undergo a change; become different in essence; losing one's or its original nature
• verb assume anew “ resume a title” “ resume an office” “ resume one's duties” see more see less type of: adopt , assume , take on , take over take on titles, offices, duties, responsibilities
• noun a summary of your academic and work history synonyms: CV , curriculum vitae see more see less type of: sum-up , summary a brief statement that presents the main points in a concise form
• noun short descriptive summary (of events) synonyms: sketch , survey see more see less type of: sum-up , summary a brief statement that presents the main points in a concise form
• verb give a summary (of) synonyms: sum up , summarise , summarize sum , sum up , summarise , summarize be a summary of see more see less types: show 5 types... hide 5 types... abstract give an abstract (of) precis make a summary (of) docket make a summary or abstract of a legal document and inscribe it in a list recap , recapitulate summarize briefly hash over , rehash , retrograde go back over type of: ingeminate , iterate , reiterate , repeat , restate , retell to say, state, or perform again

Vocabulary lists containing resume

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Definition of resume – Learner’s Dictionary

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(Definition of resume from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

Translations of resume

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put something off

to decide or arrange to delay an event or activity until a later time or date

Like a bull in a china shop: talking about people who are clumsy

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CV vs. Resume—Here Are the Differences

“Um, what is a CV?” is a question job seekers often find themselves asking. Approach 10 professionals, and odds are high only one or two can tell you the real answer. Good news, you’re about to be one of those few people who know not just what the letters stand for, but how the CV compares to a resume, and whether or not you should have one.

Curriculum Vitae, more commonly referred to by its shorthand abbreviation CV (a Latin term meaning course of life), got tossed around a lot when I was in graduate school. I’m pretty sure I pretended to know what it meant the first time I heard it, only to go home to Google and educate myself before it came up in casual conversation again.

SEARCH OPEN JOBS ON THE MUSE! See who’s hiring here , and you can even filter your search by benefits, company size, remote opportunities, and more. Then, sign up for our newsletter and we’ll deliver advice on landing the job right to you.

I quickly learned that dissertation-defending PhDs didn’t have resumes, they had CVs. Unlike the resume, which lists work history and experiences, along with a brief summary of your skills and education, the CV is a far more comprehensive document. It goes above and beyond a mention of education and work experience and often lists—in thoughtful detail—your achievements, awards, honors, and publications, stuff universities care about when they’re hiring teaching staff. Unlike a resume, which is rarely longer than a one-sided single page, the CV can be two, six, or 12 pages—depending on your professional achievements.

Let’s go over some basics of the CV versus resume.

Want to skip ahead? Check out:

What Is a CV?

• Does Anyone Besides Academics Use a CV?

What’s the Difference Between a CV and a Resume?

• How Do I Know When to Use Which?

Should I Have a CV Handy?

As touched upon briefly above, CVs are primarily popular among academics, as graduate students often spend a lot of effort getting their work published during these post-grad years. While higher-education institutions undoubtedly evaluate a potential candidate’s grades and test scores, they’re also eager to see where an applicant’s been published.

“Publish or perish” was a popular sentiment during my two years in graduate school, and it appears not much has changed. I spoke with a couple of my former classmates who went on to obtain doctorate degrees long after I’d left with a master’s degree in hand and an I’ve-had-enough-of-that mindset, and they were quick to reiterate how important getting published is to one’s career, and, of course, the standard academic’s CV.

OK, Anyone Besides Academics?

You’re right, they’re not the only ones who choose the long (sometimes, very long) document over a resume. The website Undercover Recruiter explains that U.S. and Canadian residents need a CV if they’re applying to work abroad, specifically in the U.K., Ireland, and New Zealand. In these countries, “a CV is used in all contexts and resumes aren’t used at all.” Moreover, “The CV prevails in mainland Europe and there is even a European Union CV format available for download,” a super helpful template if you’re confused about how to build one.

Short answer: Length.

Long answer: The CV’s static in that it’s not a document needing to be tailored for different positions in the way that a resume is. Rather, according to UNC Writing Center , the CV’s a “fairly detailed overview of your life’s accomplishments, especially those most relevant to the realm of academia,” hence the variance in length; an early-stage grad student’s CV is going to be a lot shorter than a sixth-year student preparing to write a dissertation.

The document only changes as your accomplishments grow—you publish the findings of a scientific study, or a short story, or you receive an award as a Teaching Assistant—whereas a resume can and should be modified often as you job search and apply to different companies and positions. At The Muse, we highly encourage you to tailor your resume for each and every job you apply to, even if the job descriptions are similar. (It’ll not only help you stand out, but also ensure you get through the ATS .)

But, How Do I Know When to Use Which?

Fortunately, if you’re still confused about where to begin, remember that almost any job you apply to will let you know what you need. It’s not typically a guessing game. When you apply for a job in New York City , or Minneapolis , or Austin , there’ll likely be clear language on what’s required with the application. Begin looking into overseas opportunities, and it’s probable that the application will explicitly state that you need to submit a CV or resume for consideration.

Seriously though, if you’re truly dumbfounded about what’s needed, it’s OK to ask the point of contact directly, “Would you prefer a resume or CV?” (And in America, the answer will almost always be “resume” since we know that recruiters don’t spend more than six seconds looking, anyways.)

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Curriculum Vitae

If you don’t currently have one, I’d recommend creating the doc just in case. You don’t have to stop everything you’re doing right this second, but the next time you go to modify your resume (a familiar and somewhat ongoing practice, I hope), start building it out. If nothing else, it’ll serve a dual-purpose: Not only can you have it handy if you do ever need it, but you’ll also have a running list of everything you’ve ever accomplished, a.k.a., a master resume to pull from as you tailor your own for specific positions.

And there you go, everything you ever wanted to know (plus more!) about the differences between a CV and a resume.

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Definition of resume verb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• resume (something) to resume talks/negotiations
• She resumed her career after an interval of six years.
• The noise resumed, louder than before.
• There is no sign of the peace talks resuming.
• resume doing something He got back in the car and resumed driving.

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• He resumed his seat opposite her.

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