resume writing and advice

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

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

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

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

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

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

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

….and more!

So, let’s dive right in.

How to Make a Resume (The Right Way!)

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

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

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

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

#1. Pick the Right Resume Format

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

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

Start by choosing the right resume format.

There are three types of resume formats out there:

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

So, which one should you go for?

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

Fix Your Resume’s Layout

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

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

Here are some of the best practices you should apply:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2. Add Your Contact Information

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

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

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

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

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

Must-Have Information

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

Optional Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is where the resume headline comes in.

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

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

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

Resume Summary

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

Here’s what your resume summary should include:

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

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

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

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

Resume Objective

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Prioritize Your Work Experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s a real-life example:

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

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

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

Focus on Achievements Whenever Possible

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your day-to-day responsibilities probably include:

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

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

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

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

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

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Include the Right Amount of Work Experience

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

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

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

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

Consider Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5. List Your Education

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

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

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

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

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

Resume Education Tips

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

Just follow these expert tips:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are a few essential steps you need to follow:

Always List Hard and Soft Skills Separately

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

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

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

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

Methodologies & Tools

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

Soft Skills

• Team Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Negotiation

Tailor Your Skills to the Job

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

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

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

Qualifications:

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

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

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

List Hard Skills with Experience Levels

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

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

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

Include Transferable Skills

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

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

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

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

#7. Leverage Optional Resume Sections

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

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

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

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

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

• Intermediate

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

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

Hobbies and Interests

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

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

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

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

Volunteering Experience

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

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

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

Certifications

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

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

Certifications can also show employers how much expertise you have.

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

Awards and Recognitions

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

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

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

Publications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extracurricular Activities

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

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

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

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

11+ Expert Resume Tips

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

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

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

FREE Resume Checklist

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

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

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

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

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

9 Resume Templates for Different Industries

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

#1. Traditional Resume Template

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

#2. Modern Resume Template

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

#3. Creative Resume Template

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

#4. Minimalistic Resume Template

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

#5. IT Resume Template

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

#6. Tech Resume Template

Good for the tech industry and everything it encompasses.

#7. College Resume Template

Good for college students and recent graduates alike.

#8. General Resume Template

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

#9. Executive Resume Template

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

17+ Resumes for Different Jobs

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

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

#1. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example

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

#2. Data Scientist Resume Example

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

#3. Business Analyst Resume Example

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

#4. Digital Marketing Resume Example

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

#5. Software Engineer Resume Example

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

#6. Construction Project Manager Resume Example

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

#7. Customer Service Resume Example

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

#8. High School Resume Example

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

#9. Student Resume Example

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

#10. Server Resume Example

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

#11. Actor Resume Example

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

#12. Web Developer Resume Example

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

#13. Engineering Resume Example

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

#14. Computer Science Resume Example

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

#15. Architect Resume Example 

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

#17. Remote Job Resume Example

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

#18. Sales Associate Resume Example

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

#19. Receptionist Resume Example

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

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

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

Next Steps After Your Resume

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

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

#1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter

The companion piece to every resume is the cover letter.

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

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

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

Just follow this structure:

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

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

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

#2. How to Ace Your Next Interview

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQs on How to Make a Resume

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5. What kind of resume do employers prefer?

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

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

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

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

You should only include relevant job positions on your resume.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#9. Is a resume a CV?

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

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

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

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

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

#10. Should I write my own resume?

Yes, you should always write your own resume.

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

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

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

#11. Can a resume be two pages?

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

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

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

#12. Is a simple resume okay?

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

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

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

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

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

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

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

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Take a look at our cover letter guides and examples, to help you write a cover letter that complement your resume and enhace your applications.

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

How to Write a Resume

The ultimate step-by-step resume writing guide

A resume is a summary of your personal  education ,  professional experience , qualifications, and skills listed in one document and then used as part of a job application. Professionals and first-time job-seekers alike often find it difficult to list everything they’ve ever done professionally in a succinct way, but learning how to write a resume is vital for your career progression.

This resume writing guide will help guide you through the process of writing a resume and debunk every myth you’ve ever heard about how to write an effective resume. Follow along step by step to create a resume that will land you more interviews!

Tips for writing a great resume

An effective resume is a marketing document that advertises YOU: your most relevant and significant qualifications, skills, and experience related to the job at hand.

The purpose of a resume is to convince the potential employer to interview you over another candidate and learn more about how you can succeed in the role!

It is vital to remember that nearly every company requires a resume as part of the hiring process, and the only way to ensure you get a callback is to stand out among the other applicants. You can do this easily with a resume that tells the company why you are the best person for the job clearly and concisely.

Components of a good resume

A  good  resume can become a  great  resume by improving its “readability” factor.

A standout resume is one that is easy to read. Resumes that cram too much information in small spaces can be hard for hiring managers to digest. Confusing layouts can force readers to toss your resume in the trash. A good resume has:

• Contact information
• An encompassing list of your current and past employment
• Education history, key skills, and details about your career goals
• A clean, easy-to-read structure
• No grammatical errors or typos

Effective  professional resumes ,  student resumes , graduate, and  entry-level resumes  are descriptive and intriguing in both format and layout. Keep reading to learn how to structure and write a resume that will help you stand out among the hundreds of other applicants.

How to write a resume step-by-step

A top tip for writing a great resume is by focusing your writing on the needs of the employer. The job advertisement is a great resource for identifying the skills and qualifications to highlight in your resume.

The company job posting usually lists the required skills, experience, and qualifications an applicant needs to be successful in the role. For example, if a job lists the need for data entry and customer service skills, be sure to tailor your resume to communicate any experience you have related to those skills.

Under no circumstance should you lie about your skills. According to  research by CareerBuilder , 75% of HR recruiters have caught a lie on a resume, so they’ll likely spot any mistruths you publish.

Instead, you should leverage your unique abilities and achievements to sell your candidacy. This can be done by making use of keywords and phrases from the job description.

The following step-by-step guide for how to make a resume is packed with tips and tricks for listing your professional experience and other details to position yourself as the ideal match for a job.

STEP 1: Choose the right format

There are three different types of resume layouts and formats most common in job searching:  Chronological ,  Functional  and  Combined . Each format has various advantages and disadvantages associated with them, and you should choose the style that best suits your professional needs and experience

• Chronological resume  – Best for jobseekers with steady growth in one sector throughout their career.
• Functional resume  – Ideal for job seekers who have been self-employed or have gaps in their job history.
• Combination resume  – Perfect for job seekers with a specific skill set or those looking to change career paths.

Learn more: For a more in-depth introduction to resume styles, read our  guide on resume formats .

STEP 2: List your contact information and write an introduction

Apply a unique heading with your name and contact information. Usually, this includes your name, phone number, email, and any relevant online links.

Next, you will write an introduction. This may be called a  resume objective ,  summary statement , or  qualifications summary  depending on the resume format you choose. Remember, the best intros are ones that grab the attention of a potential employer.

Forbes magazine  estimates that it is vital to demonstrate your worth in the first 15 – 20 seconds of its reading to get results. This means that the top third of your resume must be the most intriguing.

Catch the reader’s eye by demonstrating why YOU are the perfect fit for the role and the company in 4-6 sentences. If the reader likes what they read, they’ll continue on to the rest of your document.

You won’t need to write an introduction from scratch. ResumeCoach’s  resume builder  and  resume templates  are valuable writing tools and could serve as a basis for your unique resume.

STEP 3: Write your job history in reverse chronological order

Once you’ve got your base, get your resume into shape by filling out the meat of your resume: your employment history.

List each of your past jobs starting with your most recent position and work backward. Include the company name, job title, dates worked, and location.

To optimize what you include in your work history section, research the position offered and the general company rules and environment to better understand the characteristics and attributes that the hiring managers are looking for. Use this information to your advantage by highlighting your skills using strategic keywords taken from the job description or company branding.

Companies may employ Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to review all resumes they receive. This software will sort resumes and identify the ones most relevant to company needs. This software helps businesses save time by eliminating resumes that do not meet predetermined requirements, and therefore, do not need to be reviewed by the hiring team.

Here are a few tips for writing effective resume content:

• Emphasize your industry-specific skills  (especially those listed in the job description), but do not just copy and paste keywords from the job ad.
• Use action verbs throughout your resume.  Words like “reduced”; “increased”; “saved”; “created”; and launched” can help describe your past contributions.
• Use the active voice to describe job roles   and responsibilities for your current position and your introduction.  Past tense should be used for previous employment entries.

STEP 4: Add additional sections relevant to your experience

Resumes are much more than your employment history. It is wise to tailor your resume even more by adding other subheadings that pertain to your background and qualifications.

The following list provides examples of additional sections in your resume:

• Volunteer Work
• Personal Interests
• Honors and Awards
• Internships
• Publications
• Certifications

In each of the sections, include names and dates, as well as a brief description where possible. This information is beneficial for the employer because it allows them to know more about you beyond a list of professional achievements.

Plus, these sections can help add industry-related keywords in your document that will help the Applicant Tracking System score your resume as qualified.

STEP 5: Finetune your document

After you have completed the base of your resume, it is time to review and fine-tune your resume to ensure nothing has been left to chance.

Follow this checklist to ensure your document is error-free and easy on the eyes.

• Create a left-hand margin and align your text.  Note: If you used our resume builder or resume template, then the general page set-up is already done for you.
• Double-check readability factor : incorporate font characteristics such as bold,  italic,  or underline to bring attention to certain facts, define document headings, or differentiate between details.
• Maintain the same structure throughout  and do not use more than two varying fonts.
• PROOFREAD your resume!  Review and edit your resume as necessary. Ask a peer or mentor to read through your docs to catch mistakes you may have missed.

Resume Length: How long should my resume be?

What is the ideal length for a resume? Professional opinions differ, but they all agree on one thing: relevance is key.

When it comes to resume length, it is important to keep them as brief and to the point as possible. A longer document isn’t always better.

Research by  Talentworks  shows that resumes over 600 words long are on average 43% worse at getting interviews than other, shorter documents.

The most widely accepted length for a resume is  one to two A4 page of text  and information as well as one A4 page for a cover letter to accompany the application. Any extra information, certificates, or references can be separately attached.

This does not mean that you cannot write a longer resume, especially as you advance through your career. Some applicants have a long list of relevant projects or have  attended countless seminars or conferences . It is OK — welcome even — to include this in your resume as long as the information is suitable for the application.

Remember: you can attach a professional cover letter to your application, which may include additional space to elaborate on specific projects, skills, or experiences.

Using AI to write my resume

If you’re unsure what qualifications to include, our AI-powered resume builder can help make the process easier . Here’s how you can use suggestions given to you in our builder to quickly write your application:

• Write your intro : You can use our builder to suggest content for your objective or summary.
• Fill in different sections : The AI will provide tailored text proposals for your experience and skills. Review these suggestions and choose the ones that best reflect your professional journey.
• Personalize where you see fit : While the AI offers a strong starting point, adding your personal touch is key. Customize the text to align with your unique experiences and achievements more closely.
• Iterate for perfection : Don’t hesitate to experiment with different AI-generated proposals. This process helps in fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

By following these steps, you can create a resume that highlights your qualifications most effectively in minutes.

What should I remove from my resume?

Remember: Not all information is good information.

The following are some of the dos and don’ts to consider when writing a resume and also the information that should NOT be included on a resume.

• Do not use generic statements or cliché phrases in your resume. Be creative and original to make your resume as personalized as possible.
• Do not include unrelated information or experiences.
• Forgot references  on your resume. Instead, create a separate document and send only when requested.
• Do not choose intricate fonts that are difficult to read or unprofessional.
• Do not include GPA below 3.0.

A resume maker might help you decide what to include on a resume.

Should I use a resume template?

Resume templates are an excellent tool for job seekers to use to create a winning resume without having to start from scratch.

There are different types of resume templates that are best suited for industry sectors, positions, and levels of experience. You can find resume samples for students, resume templates for professionals or even resume examples for entry-level jobs. The most common resume template follows the chronological resume format.

Resume examples allow applicants to customize their resume using the preformatted sections in the document and usually help applicants cut down on the time they spend creating a document from scratch.

Of course, if you need a little more guidance than simply downloading a resume sample from the web, you could try an online resume builder to help take you through the process step by step and provide practical advice on how to write each section of a resume.

How do I write a cover letter?

A cover letter is essential for any serious job application and a great opportunity for candidates to expand on their experience and achievements.

No job application will be considered complete and professional without an effective, well-written cover letter. Therefore, it is vital you spend additional time and effort to compose a cover letter that will compliment your finished resume.

Roughly  10 percent of recruiters  consider missing cover letters a deal-breaking mistake. Don’t ruin your chances of an interview by not creating a personalized cover letter.

A cover letter must be well written with simple, conversational language. No spelling or grammatical errors! The best cover letters are informative and offer a glimpse into your experience listed on your resume.

It’s also a good idea to talk about why you want to work for that company specifically and how you think you can help them achieve greater success. Offer evidence and quantifiable examples of how your knowledge, experience, qualifications, and skill set are beneficial to the company.

Think of the cover letter as an extension to the resume simply by explaining in your own words while always using formal language what has led you to believe that this role would be right for you.

Similarly to a purposeful and concise resume, a cover letter should not exceed one A4 page and should include only details that are relevant to the position on offer. Do not go off-topic!

In summary, resumes must be thoughtfully designed to market you as an irreplaceable benefit to a company. Doing so requires paying specific attention to your qualifications and accomplishments. Using a resume template or enlisting the help of an online resume creator can make writing a resume easier.

ResumeCoach has built detailed guides to help you build your resume. Our online resume maker is equipped with tips from expert career advisors and specific instructions for how to create each resume section.

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32 Resume Tips & Tricks for 2024

Wondering how to write a resume in 2024? We’ve got you covered with 32 of the best resume writing tips and tricks to take advantage of current hiring trends.

3 years ago   •   12 min read

The past couple of years have seen more changes in the job market than ever before. The result has been more opportunities than ever for many job seekers — and, of course, the need to update your resume to take advantage of them. Luckily, that doesn’t mean you need to start from scratch! In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of 32 actionable resume tips for writing a resume in 2024, including information on up-to-date trends and what hiring managers are really looking for.

Browse this guide for tips on formatting and keywords, navigating a career change, targeting your resume, addressing employment gaps, optimizing your online resume and more.

The trend in 2024: Remote work

As companies continue embrace the move towards working from home , highlighting your experience with remote work can be a major asset to your resume in 2024.

Resume tip: Highlight remote work experience

Working from home offers its own challenges, so companies love to see candidates who already understand the skills required for remote work. When describing your experience in a remote position , list specific remote platforms you worked with, such as Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, or Trello, and include these in your hard skills section .

The rise in remote opportunities also means there is a real market for people with remote management experience. If you’re applying for a company that offers remote work, whether your position is in-person or not, make sure to highlight accomplishments related to managing employees or teams remotely.

Here’s a few examples of resume bullet points that highlight remote work accomplishments:

• Managed a remote, 5-member cross-functional team and coordinated with six senior business partners toward the successful launch of an e-commerce platform, using Trello, Slack and Google Workspace
• Identified, assessed and onboarded 12 mid-level remote employees in <6 months
• Led over 12 software sales pilots remotely, generating $500K+ total revenue in license and consulting service fees in 2020-21

The trend in 2024: Applicant Tracking Systems

Applicant Tracking systems (ATS) are here to stay in 2024, with 75% of employers now using ATS to partially automate the hiring process. This means it’s more important than ever to ensure your resume is reader-friendly, whether that reader is a human or a machine.

Resume tip: Make your resume ATS-friendly

To make sure your resume can be easily read by ATS software, don’t use special downloaded fonts or special characters , but stick with traditional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman instead. Use simple formatting in Word or Google Docs . When creating your resume, stick to a one column format, or download a free ATS-ready resume template . For more detailed tips, read our guide on how to beat ATS .

Resume tip: Use relevant keywords

ATS are programmed to scan your resume for important keywords, so make sure they’re in there! Read the job description carefully to pick out key requirements, browse for common skills and keywords by industry and job title, or use our job description keyword finder to generate competitive keywords based on the job posting.

The trend in 2024: Targeted resumes

Gone are the days when you can send the same resume with every application. Now, the expectation is that you tailor your resume to the specific job so a recruiter can easily see why you are the right candidate for the position.

Resume tip: Tailor your resume content

While your experience remains the same no matter what job you’re applying for, your resume shouldn’t. Writing a targeted resume involves including keywords and skills, listing your accomplishments in order of relevance, and removing previous experience if it’s no longer relevant.

The easiest way to tailor your resume to a specific position is to use our Targeted Resume Tool . This tool analyzes the job description, identifies keywords and skills missing from your resume and provides actionable advice on how your resume can be improved.

Resume tip: Include the specific job title

Ensure the title of the job you are applying for appears at least once on your resume. For example, if you are applying for a Data Analyst position, refer to yourself as a Data Analyst in your resume summary, resume header, or work experience section. Including the exact job title won’t just help you get past ATS, it’ll also signal to a hiring manager that you’re the perfect fit for the role.

Resume tip: Start with a resume summary

Begin your resume with a resume summary . This brief section should include your most significant achievements, essential skills, and career aspirations, as well as your targeted job title, as explained above. While resume summaries aren’t always necessary, they’re great if you’re changing careers , can help you catch a recruiter's attention, and are common for high-level executive resumes.

The trend in 2024: Online resumes

The trend of online resumes continues to grow in 2024, especially in tech-focused and creative industries, with sites like LinkedIn fast becoming many recruiters’ first choice for posting positions and finding suitable candidates.

Resume tip: Embrace online resumes and portfolios

Online resumes and portfolios aren't just for creative professionals anymore. Platforms like LinkedIn and Monster allow applicants to showcase their resumes, include links to previous projects, advertise testimonials from employers, and connect directly with recruiters . Many of these platforms are free and easy to use, and you should be utilizing them for a job search in 2024.

Resume tip: Optimize your LinkedIn profile

LinkedIn remains a crucial platform for online resumes. In fact, many employers today will expect to find a comprehensive LinkedIn profile attached to your application.

Make sure to keep your profile up-to-date and optimized for the platform. Use LinkedIn's features to your advantage – include a professional headshot, craft a compelling headline , use the LinkedIn summary section to express your career aspirations, and fill in all the details of your work experiences. Use our LinkedIn Optimization Tool for further tips and feedback on optimizing your LinkedIn profile.

Resume tip: Include your LinkedIn profile on your regular resume

Include the address of your LinkedIn profile on your regular resume under contact information or in your resume header . You can make this address a clickable link on a PDF or Word document, or as part of your email signature when corresponding with recruiters.

The trend in 2024: Bullet points and power phrases

The key to writing a powerful resume is keeping your statements concise, memorable and to the point. The less a recruiter has to read, the better.

Resume tip: Use bullet points

Whenever possible, use bullet points instead of long paragraphs to keep your resume short and easy to scan. Choose accomplishments from your work history that reflect the duties mentioned in the job description, and use a resume bullet point builder to help construct your bullet points. Aim for 3-6 bullet points for more recent jobs, or 1-2 for older positions.

Resume tip: Start with an action verb

The most reliable way to keep your resume focused on accomplishments is to start every bullet point with an action verb. This keeps the spotlight firmly on what you did and helps frame your achievements in a positive, proactive light.

Use our comprehensive action verb database to choose from 200+ action verbs broken down by category. Vary your word choice by using synonyms of the most common resume power verbs , and remember to use the past tense in your action verbs . For example, use Managed instead of Manage or Manages .

Resume tip: Include metrics

Listing what you accomplished at previous jobs is good, but highlighting the end result or benefit to the company is even better. Using numbers and metrics to quantify your accomplishments makes it easier for recruiters to see what skills you’re bringing to the table and visualize how you’re likely to perform in the new role, bringing you one step closer to getting hired.

Resume tip: Use resume power phrases

Combining a strong action verb with a quantifiable result and metric is known as a power phrase , as they add power to your statements and help make your resume memorable to a recruiter. Use this formula throughout your resume, summary, and work experience to create an impactful resume.

Resume tip: Highlights the right skills

When it comes to listing past experience on your resume, focus on highlighting accomplishments and transferable skills that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Find out if your resume includes the right accomplishments and transferable skills by uploading your resume to the tool below . It’ll let you know if you’ve chosen the right skills, used enough numbers or metrics to quantify your accomplishments and also if you’ve chosen strong action verbs.

The trend in 2024: Avoid buzzwords and soft skills

It feels like just yesterday that candidates were encouraged to add buzzwords to their resumes, but in 2024, the verdict is in, and buzzwords are out!

Resume tip: Avoid meaningless buzzwords

Buzzwords are overused, subjective phrases that provide no quantifiable proof of your experience and can actually make a recruiter less likely to read your resume. Examples of buzzwords include hard worker, team player, motivated or goal-orientated. Replace these terms with action verbs and quantified metrics to exemplify your skills and experience in a way that a recruiter can understand.

Resume tip: Emphasize soft skills via your accomplishments

Soft skills are just below buzzwords when it comes to things not to list on your resume. Anyone can claim to be a great leader or have excellent communication skills; the trick is to prove it. The best way to do this is through your work experience bullet points; for example, by detailing the size of the teams you’ve led, or highlighting a conference you presented at or a paper you wrote. To read more, check out our guide on how to include soft skills on your resume .

The trend in 2024: Focus on accomplishments

If you’re still listing duties or responsibilities on your resume in 2024, it’s time to put an end to that. Potential employers want to know what you’re likely to achieve in the job they’re hiring for, and the best way to do that is to look at what you’ve accomplished in similar roles in the past.

Resume tip: List accomplishments over roles and responsibilities

When listing your previous work history, describe achievements, qualifications and accomplishments instead of a list of roles and responsibilities. A potential employer wants to know what you did, not what you were supposed to do.

Resume tip: Focus on hard skills

Focus on the hard skills you gained during your previous employment, and exemplify each skill with a quantifiable accomplishment. This helps show a recruiter the skills you gained in each previous job and how those skills are relevant to their industry and position.

Use the tool below to find out the hard skills and keywords recruiters in your industry look for in a resume.

The trend in 2024: Simple formatting

Recruiters only spend a few minutes scanning your resume, which means that making your resume easy to skim should be one of your top priorities in 2024.

Resume tip: Stick to one page

Try to keep your resume to one to two pages . Any longer, and a reciter will likely stop reading, making any subsequent pages all but useless. To help trim your resume to one page , remember to be concise with your descriptions, cut irrelevant experience, use short power phrases, and focus on recent accomplishments within the last 15 years.

Resume tip: Steer clear of complex formatting

Fancy resume templates may look enticing, but complicated formatting, graphics and images can distort when sent to an employer or saved in a different file format . To be safe, stick to simple layouts and avoid adding graphs, colours or images to your resume. Text-based resumes also look more professional and are easier for ATS software to scan.

Resume tip: Use reverse chronological order

The most common way to list your work experience is in reverse chronological order, with your current or most recent job at the top. This is how modern recruiters will expect your resume to be formatted.

However, if your most recent experience is not your most relevant experience for the job you are applying for, you can separate your work history into a ‘Relevant Experience’ and ‘Other Experience’, but every job should have your job title, company, and dates of employment clearly listed .

Resume tip: List your sections in order of importance

As we have mentioned, many recruiters only scan your resume and stop reading when they lose interest. This means your resume should be formatted in order of importance. Your work experience section should be at the top of your resume, and less important sections (like education, projects, and other information) at the bottom.

There are exceptions to this rule — if you’re a current student or recent graduate, you can list your education section first. If you’re changing careers, you can prioritize relevant experience or more recent qualifications .

Resume tip: Use white space

Ever heard the expression “less is more”? It applies to your resume, too. Instead of filling your resume with as many skills as you can, focus on the quality of the experience you choose to list over quantity, and leave white space (space not filled with words) to give your words room to breathe.

Use standard margins and font sizes, and leave space between the different sections of your resume. This will make your resume easier to skim and help the most important information stand out.

Resume tip: Polish your resume

With so many options for spell-checking your resume, there’s no excuse for typos. Always thoroughly proofread your resume, as even a single mistake could cause a recruiter to move on to another candidate. If you don’t want to leave anything to chance, use a free resume checker to proofread your resume and offer suggestions on areas to improve before you hit Submit.

The trend in 2024: Navigating career changes

Career changes have become more common than ever before due to the global pandemic's effects on various industries. Here's how you can make your resume reflect a successful career pivot and optimize your past experience for applications in new industries.

Resume tip: Highlight transferable skills

The first step when changing careers is to identify which skills from your previous roles are transferable to your new industry. These can include soft skills like leadership and communication or hard skills that can apply across industries, like project management or data analysis.

When you list these skills on your resume, it’s not enough to simply state that you possess them. Instead, include specific examples of when and how you used these skills professionally. Remember, hard skills will be listed in your skills section, while soft skills should be exemplified in your work experience.

Resume tip: Consider gaining new qualifications

In some cases, you might need to go back to school or gain new qualifications to make a career switch. Online learning platforms like Google Career Certificates make this process easy and are a great addition to your resume. Don't be shy about listing relevant courses or certifications on your resume; it demonstrates a commitment to your new field, and you can even include courses you are enrolled in or yet to complete, to show that you are actively improving your skills.

Resume tip: Rebrand your job descriptions

Another strategy for navigating career changes is to revise your past job descriptions and titles . Of course, you should always be truthful on your resume, but you can tweak how you present your past roles to make them more relevant to your new field. Focus on the responsibilities and achievements from your past positions that align with your new career path. This can help prospective employers see how your experience is valuable, even if it’s in a different field.

The trend in 2024: Addressing gaps in your employment history

Having gaps in your employment history is quite common, particularly following the recent pandemic. However, it's important to address these gaps appropriately on your resume.

Resume tip: Be honest but concise

First and foremost, honesty is crucial. Don’t try to hide employment gaps by altering the dates of previous employment. Dishonesty is much more harmful to your application than an employment gap.

That being said, it's not necessary to provide a detailed explanation about the gap in your resume. Your resume should be a concise summary of your professional history, so if you took time off for personal reasons, you can simply note the time period and leave it at that.

Resume tip: Highlight productive activities during the gap

If you took part in education or activities during your employment gap that enhanced your skills or knowledge, mention this on your resume. This can include volunteer work , freelance projects , courses or certifications, or even self-taught learning. For example, if you were unemployed for six months but during that time you completed a project management certification, you can include this in the education or professional development section of your resume.

Resume tip: Employment gaps aren’t that big a deal

You don’t have to go into too much detail about your employment gap on your resume. You can expand on your gap in your cover letter or during an interview, where you can explain the reasons for the gap in a positive light and emphasize how you used the time productively to prepare for your return to the workforce.

Remember, an employment gap does not automatically disqualify you from consideration for a job. Many recruiters understand that life happens, and as long as you can demonstrate that you're ready to jump back into work, they will consider your application seriously.

The trend in 2024: Networking

Okay, so networking isn’t exactly a new trend, but in 2024, it’s more important than ever — here are networking tips for 2024 . Even with hundreds of job boards available at your fingertips , sometimes it’s the personal touch that can really push your application over the edge.

Resume tip: Follow up with the hiring manager

If you haven’t heard back from a job application, it’s time to follow up. Even a quick email can help establish that all-important personal connection and prevent your resume from slipping through the cracks. If you’re unsure exactly how to go about it, check out our guide to following up on a job application , including email templates you can copy and paste.

Related : Banish Boring Subject Lines With These Key Email Tips

The trend in 2024: Modern expectations

Not all resume tips are created equal. Some resume trends haven't been current in years, and some have never aligned with what hiring managers actually want to see.

Resume tip: What trends recruiters don’t want to see

Here's a brief (but non-exhaustive) list of things recruiters don't want to see on your resume:

• A functional resume format: There are better ways to make up for a lack of work history than leaving off dates and job titles. Instead, focus on accomplishments and highlight transferable skills.
• Resume objectives : A resume objective typically focuses on what you're looking for rather than on what you can bring to the role. Switch this section for a targeted resume summary.
• A full street address: Under contact information, list your City, State, and/or Country, instead of a complete street address. Email is a far more common mode of communication, so a street address is no longer needed on a modern resume.
• Career Advice
• Career Changers

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Tips for Making a Great Resume

Your resume is the key piece of your job application. Here's how to get it right.

Table of Contents

If you’re looking for a job, first impressions matter — that’s why having a professional, polished resume is so important. Employers still want to find and hire the best employees for each open position, and resumes are the first step in that search. Use the following strategies to make your resume stand out and demonstrate that you are the best candidate for the job.

Consider using a resume writing tool like LiveCareer or hiring a professional resume writing service like Monster to make sure you’re checking all the right boxes. These services take into account resume writing best practices and the elements hiring managers are looking for. However, if you’d prefer to go it alone, this guide will help you create a great resume that hiring managers will notice.

How to create a great resume

Here are some tips for creating an impressive resume.

1. Assemble your job history and skills.

The first step in creating your resume should include your relevant job history, industry experience and applicable skills. While you might feel tempted to add every place you’ve ever worked at, narrow down your history to only list relevant roles or experiences. This will keep your resume concise and direct hiring managers and recruiters to the right place. However, this also might mean creating multiple resumes and tailoring them to the specific job/company you’re applying to.

From there, format your resume so that it is easy to identify your qualifications. For instance, if you advanced in a company quickly, draw attention to that growth, said Claire Bissot, SPHR and director of Kainos Capital. If you excessively job-hopped, bullet those jobs without providing specifics and detail more applicable positions. This will play to your assets.

When structuring your resume, make sure the information is presented in a logical order, said career coach Veronica Yao. 

“A hiring manager [will] read your resume starting at the top and ending at the bottom. However, if they don’t finish reading the whole thing — and they often don’t — you still want to ensure your strongest points come across.”

2. Use an original resume template.

Employers appreciate originality. While it’s helpful to refer to a professional resume template, don’t follow it rigidly, as this might actually deter potential employers.

“I often pass over resumes that match Microsoft Office templates,” Bissot told Business News Daily. “The templates are meant to be a guide to get started, but it should be expanded on to make it your own.”

Showcase your expertise in an appealing and eye-catching manner so you stand out from other applicants, especially if you’re in a creative industry. Include hyperlinks, aesthetic formatting, colors and shading, testimonials and other unique features. Use your resume to tell your career story. For instance, you can write an interesting “about me” section to personalize and summarize your experiences.

3. Fill out the sections.

Use bullet points or short lines to outline your job responsibilities and accomplishments for each role you’ve listed on your resume. This will help recruiters and hiring managers better understand your experiences and how you’ve helped that company grow. 

Typically, it’s best to use action verbs and data-backed words rather than “fluff.” For example, if you’re outlining social media marketing experience, rather than simply stating “I managed social media platforms for my client,” write “Increased social media lead generation by X percent year-over-year.” This cuts to the point and backs up your credentials with hard data to showcase your success. 

4. Choose the file type.

Most employers prefer resumes as Microsoft Word documents (.doc) or PDF files. Microsoft Word documents are the most traditional and widely accepted file types for resumes, but PDFs ensure the formatting doesn’t become wonky after submission. 

However, when you’re dealing with applicant tracking systems (ATS), Word documents are easier for these systems to read through and pick up on important keywords. This is important if you want to stand out in modern recruiting. If you submit a PDF or other file, you might get automatically rejected if the system cannot read it. A general rule of thumb is to save both versions of your resume and submit a Word document to applications on job sites and a PDF when sending directly to a recruiter or hiring manager. [Read related article: Ways AI Is Changing HR Departments ]

5. Proofread the draft.

Before you submit your resume anywhere, proofread it yourself and ask a trusted friend or professional contact to do the same. One minor mistake or grammatical error could result in countless rejections. Your resume is your first — and often only — chance to impress a potential employer, and you should treat it as such.

Here are a few things to look at:

• Spelling, grammar and punctuation: A hiring manager will likely automatically dismiss your application if they spot a typo or grammatical error. “Make sure it’s error-free and easy to read,” said Diya Obeid, founder and CEO of ATS company JobDiva. “HR reps equate typos and errors with laziness. Use good English — the written word has a huge impact on the employer.”
• Formatting: “Review formatting very closely, including font, alignment and spacing,” Bissot said. “Related issues can often be perceived as a sign of lacking technical skills and/or attention to detail.”
• Headings: Yao said that candidates often submit applications addressed to the wrong employer or outline experience that’s irrelevant to the role. “Receiving a resume that’s crafted and addressed to someone else — or worse, a competitor — can be a huge turnoff and will set a negative tone even if they do choose to continue reading your application.”

Resume writing tips

It can be difficult to succinctly present all of your experiences and qualifications on one page, but there are many ways to spruce up your resume without going overboard. To help you land an interview, we rounded up some of the best resume-writing tips.

1. Keep your resume short and direct.

The No. 1 rule of writing a resume is to keep it short and to the point. The general rule is no more than one page unless you have a good reason for it to be longer, like an extensive career or a lot of highly applicable work experience.

An easy way to keep your resume concise is to include only recent, relevant experience. While that yearlong first job might have taught you a lot about the field, you don’t always need to include every detail from your entire career history.

Most experts recommend including jobs from the previous 10 or 15 years only, although this time frame may be shorter if you are new to the workforce. Including too many unrelated work experiences can make your resume appear too busy and draw attention away from your relevant qualifications. Your resume should be focused, clear and concise.

2. Highlight relevant skills and experiences.

Using the same resume for every job you apply for is not the best approach. Instead, your resume should target the specific job you are applying for. Prioritize the skills, qualifications and experiences that are directly applicable to the job you are trying to land.

Choose three or four former positions or experiences that best highlight the skills required for each position for which you apply. Employers value brevity; this is not the time to list every position you have ever held. For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, you could include your former retail experience and bullet the communication, branding and interpersonal skills you learned in that position.

If you don’t have a work history that directly relates to the job you are applying for, be creative with how you present your other experiences. Draw on the skills you used and how your contributions benefited the organization or project. [Read related article: 22 In-Demand Skills to Help You Get the Job ]

3. Demonstrate results with numbers and metrics.

When you write about your previous work experience, it is always a good idea to quantify your successes with numbers. Metrics can highlight your achievements and give the hiring manager or recruiter a clear sense of how you impacted your previous place of employment. For example, someone who previously worked as a sales representative might say that they “executed more than 50 cold calls daily, with an average 5 percent conversion rate.”

4. Craft a career snapshot.

More recently, career experts have urged job seekers to do away with the old “objective” statement and instead consider including a brief summary, called a “career snapshot,” at the top of their resume.

“With the career snapshot, you present a branding statement that briefly explains your unique value as well as your skills and qualifications,” said Tomer Sade, CEO of Book a Space. “This would then be followed by a few bullet points that highlight your experience and your accomplishments. Whatever you list here should be relevant to the position you’re applying to.”

“The top third of your resume is prime resume real estate,” added Lisa Rangel, an executive resume writer and CEO of Chameleon Resumes. “Create a robust summary to capture the hiring manager’s eye.”

Think of your career snapshot as an answer to the question “How would you describe your work experience in one sentence?” The summary is an opportunity to sum up your most relevant and important skills, experience or assets right off the bat.

5. Optimize your text.

If a company uses an ATS to collect and scan resumes, a human hiring manager may never see any application that doesn’t fit the job criteria they’ve entered. Trish O’Brien, vice president of human capital operations at Lifelong Learner Holdings, emphasized adapting your resume to the position to increase your likelihood of passing the first level.

“Make sure you’ve carefully reviewed the posting and … [used] the appropriate keywords in your resume to get past the screener,” O’Brien said. “Be truthful, but understand that the first pass on your resume is likely via an ATS.”

A helpful tip is to make sure you include keywords from the job post in your resume. Copy and paste the job description into a word-cloud generator to identify the most frequently used terms, and make sure the terms that apply to you are used in your resume. You can also create a “core competencies” or “areas of expertise” section of your resume to list all of your hard and soft skills, and then reiterate those skills when you bullet your experience.

6. Think beyond your job duties.

Hiring managers don’t want to read a list of your job duties. They want concrete examples of your accomplishments in previous positions that show how you can make a difference in this new position.

Rangel said that specific merits are more engaging to read than just your experiences. For example, “I reduced operating expenses by 23 percent in six months” is far more interesting to an employer than “I have 30 years of sales experience.”

When deciding what information to keep or cut out of your resume, focus on striking abstract traits and qualifications in favor of concrete, quantifiable results.

“The best resumes highlight a job candidate’s actions and results,” said Bob Myhal, chief marketing officer at CBC Automotive Marketing. “Employers want employees who get things done and who take great joy and pride in what they do. Rather than a laundry list of your qualifications, your resume should reflect your accomplishments and enthusiasm for your career.”

You shouldn’t ignore your skills section either. Sade reminded job seekers to list any industry-relevant apps or programs they’re familiar with and to find ways to incorporate examples of their emotional intelligence (e.g., self-awareness, empathy) and soft skills (e.g., work ethic, reliability) into their job descriptions.

7. Use the right language to stand out.

Trite, lackluster descriptions of your job duties and accomplishments won’t do you any favors. Make sure you’re using strong action words, such as “achieved,” “designed,” “improved” and “established,” to describe your roles and projects, said Sade. This will make you sound confident while imparting vital information. But be cautious about depending on action verbs — include details about how you improved a process or achieved a goal .

“Words such as ‘professional,’ ‘results-driven’ and ‘detail-oriented’ provide very little helpful information,” Sade said. “It’s better to use actual job titles than these words.”

Obeid said that you should remove words like “go-getter,” “team player” and “go-to person” from your resume. These come off as fluff and take up precious space on your resume.

8. List your social media profiles.

Many hiring managers today screen candidates on social networks . Save them a step by providing your profile links on your resume. Seasoned applicants with a professional social presence would do well to include URLs for their LinkedIn profile, Twitter account and blog, if applicable.

“If, and only if, your social media accounts are filled with professional posts pertaining to your industry, listing them on your resume can be advantageous,” said Richie Frieman, author of REPLY ALL … and Other Ways to Tank Your Career . “They can show you have a strong network and are up to speed with modern-day marketing and communications practices. The hiring manager will see that you like to keep up with what’s happening and that you care about learning more.”

Your social profiles can be a powerful recruitment tool to supplement your experience and position as an expert in your field, but only if they are leveraged correctly.

Importance of a great resume

Your resume is the most important document you’ll submit in your job search. It’s your frontline fighter, so to speak, as it’s your first opportunity to present yourself to a potential employer. A professional resume will help you achieve the following:

• Increase your earning potential. According to the Zippia research, professionally written resumes are not only good for landing an interview, but they can also boost your earning potential by 7 percent to 32 percent. 
• Increase your chances of securing a new role. Zippia also found that 68 percent of job seekers who have worked with a professional resume writer landed a new job in under 90 days. If your resume lacks professionalism or relevance to the positions you’re applying to, you likely won’t receive as many opportunities.
• Quickly impress recruiters and hiring managers . Hiring managers and recruiters look at resumes for an average of only six to seven seconds each, so make every second count. A strong resume can help you stand out from the crowd, but a weak resume can remove you from the running.
• Decrease your number of rejections. According to Zippia, you need to send an average of 50 to 100 resumes before you get hired. However, the more impressive and professional your resume is, the lower this number will be — and the less you will have to wait to start a new job.

Make a great first impression

Your resume is a great way to showcase your experience and make a solid first impression. It doesn’t matter how talented, passionate or experienced you are — if a recruiter or hiring manager is unimpressed by your resume, you won’t get the chance to sell yourself. If you follow the tips above, you’ll increase your chances of moving on to the interview stage of the hiring process and landing the job of your dreams.

Ki ely Kuligowski and Skye Schooley contributed to this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article.

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Top 20 Writing Skills for Resume – Samples & How to Highlight

• Resume Format
• October 25, 2024
• Resume Skills

Writing Skills for Resume : In today’s competitive job market, showcasing your writing skills on your resume can set you apart from other candidates. Employers increasingly seek individuals who possess strong communication abilities, as these skills are essential for collaboration, problem-solving, and conveying ideas effectively. This article delves into the top 20 writing skills that can enhance your resume, providing you with valuable samples and insights on how to highlight them.

From crafting compelling narratives to mastering grammar and style, each skill plays a crucial role in demonstrating your proficiency as a writer. By understanding which skills resonate most with potential employers, you can tailor your resume to reflect your strengths and make a lasting impression.

In addition to listing these essential writing skills, we’ll explore practical tips on how to effectively showcase them in your resume. Prepare to elevate your job application and increase your chances of landing that dream position by mastering the art of writing.

What are Writing Skills

Writing skills encompass the ability to express ideas clearly and effectively through written language. This includes grammar, vocabulary, structure, and style. Strong writing skills enhance communication, allowing individuals to convey messages persuasively and engage readers. Mastery of these skills is essential for academic, professional, and personal success.

Why Writing Skills Important

Writing skills are essential in today’s fast-paced, information-driven world. They enable individuals to communicate effectively, express ideas clearly, and engage with diverse audiences. Strong writing skills can significantly impact personal and professional success. Here are several reasons why writing skills are important:

• Effective Communication : Clear writing helps convey messages accurately, reducing misunderstandings and enhancing collaboration.
• Professional Advancement : Strong writing abilities can set candidates apart in job applications, promotions, and networking opportunities.
• Critical Thinking : Writing encourages the organization of thoughts, fostering analytical skills and the ability to construct logical arguments.
• Persuasion and Influence : Well-crafted writing can persuade readers, whether in marketing materials, proposals, or persuasive essays, driving action and decision-making.
• Creativity and Expression : Writing allows individuals to express their creativity and share unique perspectives, enriching both personal and professional narratives.
• Digital Presence : In the age of social media and online communication, effective writing is crucial for building a strong personal brand and engaging with audiences.
• Academic Success : Strong writing skills are vital for academic achievement , enabling students to articulate ideas, conduct research, and present findings coherently.
• Lifelong Learning : Writing enhances comprehension and retention of information, making it easier to learn new concepts and share knowledge with others.

In summary, honing writing skills is not just about grammar and style; it’s about opening doors to opportunities, fostering connections, and making a lasting impact in various aspects of life.

List of 20 Writing Skills for Resume

• Creative Writing
• Technical Writing
• Copywriting
• Proofreading
• Content Development
• SEO Writing
• Research Skills
• Persuasive Writing
• Social Media Writing
• Grant Writing
• Scriptwriting
• Business Writing
• Academic Writing
• Narrative Writing
• Email Communication
• Report Writing
• Resume Writing
• Speech Writing

Top Required Writing Skills for Resume

• Clarity : The ability to express ideas clearly and concisely is essential. Clarity ensures that the reader understands the message without confusion, making it easier for them to follow the writer’s thoughts and intentions.
• Grammar Proficiency : Mastery of grammar rules enhances credibility and professionalism. Proper grammar prevents miscommunication and reflects attention to detail, which is crucial in any written communication.
• Vocabulary : A rich vocabulary allows for precise expression of ideas. Using varied and appropriate words can make writing more engaging and impactful, helping to convey complex concepts effectively.
• Tone Adaptation : Adjusting tone based on the audience and purpose is vital. Whether formal, informal, persuasive, or informative, the right tone fosters connection and engagement with the reader.
• Research Skills : The ability to gather and synthesize information from credible sources enhances writing quality. Research skills ensure that content is accurate, relevant, and well-informed, adding depth to the writing.
• Editing and Proofreading : Strong editing skills are crucial for refining drafts. This involves checking for errors, improving clarity, and ensuring coherence, ultimately leading to polished and professional final pieces.
• Creativity : Creativity in writing helps to capture and maintain the reader’s interest. Innovative ideas and unique perspectives can differentiate a writer’s work, making it memorable and engaging.
• Persuasiveness : The ability to persuade through writing is essential in marketing and sales. Persuasive writing employs emotional appeals and logical arguments to influence the reader’s decisions and actions.
• Structure and Organization : Well-structured writing guides the reader through the content logically. Effective organization, including clear headings and transitions, enhances readability and comprehension.
• Audience Awareness : Understanding the target audience shapes the writing approach. Tailoring content to meet the audience’s interests and needs increases engagement and effectiveness.
• Conciseness : The skill of being concise involves expressing ideas in as few words as possible without losing meaning. Conciseness respects the reader’s time and enhances the impact of the message.
• Storytelling : Incorporating storytelling techniques can make writing more relatable and engaging. A compelling narrative captures attention and evokes emotions, making the message resonate with readers.
• Analytical Thinking : Strong analytical skills enable writers to evaluate information critically. This skill helps in constructing logical arguments and identifying potential counterarguments, enhancing the overall quality of the writing.
• Adaptability : The ability to adapt writing style and format for different mediums (blogs, reports, social media) is crucial. Flexibility ensures that the message is effectively communicated across various platforms.
• Attention to Detail : A keen eye for detail helps catch errors and inconsistencies. This skill ensures that the writing is polished and professional, reflecting a high standard of quality.
• Time Management : Effective time management skills allow writers to meet deadlines without compromising quality. Prioritizing tasks and managing schedules ensures timely delivery of written content.
• Feedback Incorporation : The ability to accept and integrate feedback is essential for growth. Constructive criticism helps writers refine their skills and improve the quality of their work.
• Cohesion : Creating cohesive writing involves ensuring that all parts of the text connect logically. Cohesion enhances flow and readability, making it easier for readers to follow the writer’s argument.
• Technical Writing : Proficiency in technical writing is valuable for conveying complex information clearly. This skill is essential in fields like engineering, IT, and healthcare, where precision and clarity are paramount.
• Digital Literacy : Familiarity with digital tools and platforms enhances writing capabilities. Understanding how to use various software and online resources effectively can streamline the writing process and improve productivity.

How to Highlight Writing Skills on Resume

Highlighting writing skills on a resume is crucial for making a strong impression on potential employers. Effective writing skills demonstrate clear communication, attention to detail, and the ability to convey ideas persuasively. Here are some tips to showcase your writing skills effectively:

• Tailor Your Resume : Customize your resume for each job application. Use keywords from the job description that align with your writing skills to catch the employer’s attention.
• Create a Skills Section : Dedicate a section to your writing skills. Include specific abilities such as technical writing, creative writing, or copywriting, depending on the role you are applying for.
• Showcase Relevant Experience : In your work experience section, highlight positions where writing skills were essential. Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements related to writing.
• Include Writing Samples : If applicable, provide links to online portfolios or attach writing samples that demonstrate your writing skills. This gives employers tangible evidence of your capabilities.
• Quantify Achievements : Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments. For example, mention how your writing skills contributed to increasing engagement by a certain percentage or led to successful campaigns.
• Mention Certifications or Courses : If you have completed any writing-related courses or certifications, include them. This reinforces your commitment to developing your writing skills.
• Use Action Verbs : When describing your writing experience, use strong action verbs like “crafted,” “developed,” or “edited” to convey your writing skills dynamically.
• Highlight Soft Skills : Writing skills often go hand-in-hand with other soft skills like critical thinking and creativity. Mention these complementary skills to provide a fuller picture of your capabilities.

By strategically emphasizing your writing skills, you can create a resume that stands out and effectively communicates your qualifications to potential employers.

Sample Writing Skills for Resume

Contact information.

Email: [email protected] Phone: (123) 456-7890 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe Location: City, State

Professional Summary

Dynamic and detail-oriented writer with over 5 years of experience in creating compelling content across various platforms. Proven ability to engage audiences and drive conversions through persuasive copywriting and storytelling. Adept at conducting research, editing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality content that meets client objectives.

• Content Creation
• SEO Optimization
• Editing and Proofreading
• Social Media Management
• Research and Analysis
• Brand Storytelling
• Email Marketing

Professional Experience

Content Writer XYZ Marketing Agency, City, State June 2020 – Present

• Developed high-quality blog posts, articles, and web content that increased organic traffic by 40%.
• Collaborated with the SEO team to optimize content for search engines, resulting in improved keyword rankings.
• Created persuasive email marketing campaigns that achieved an average open rate of 25%.

Freelance Copywriter Self-Employed, City, State January 2018 – May 2020

• Crafted engaging copy for various clients, including product descriptions, landing pages, and social media posts.
• Conducted market research to understand target audiences and tailor messaging accordingly.
• Assisted clients in developing brand voice and messaging strategies that enhanced their online presence.

Editorial Assistant ABC Publishing, City, State June 2016 – December 2017

• Supported the editorial team in proofreading and editing manuscripts for publication.
• Researched industry trends and competitor content to inform editorial decisions.
• Assisted in the development of promotional materials and press releases.

Bachelor of Arts in English University of State, City, State Graduated: May 2016

Certifications

• Certified Content Marketer, Content Marketing Institute
• SEO Copywriting Certification, HubSpot Academy

Additional Information

• Volunteer Writer for Local Non-Profit Organization
• Member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA)
• Passionate about travel writing and photography

How to Develop Writing Skills for Resume

Developing writing skills for your resume is essential for making a strong impression on potential employers. A well-crafted resume can set you apart from the competition and showcase your qualifications effectively. Here are some tips to help you develop writing skills for your resume:

• Understand Your Audience : Research the industry and tailor your language to resonate with hiring managers.
• Use Action Verbs : Start bullet points with strong action verbs to convey your achievements and responsibilities clearly.
• Be Concise : Practice summarizing your experiences in a few impactful sentences. This helps develop writing skills that prioritize clarity.
• Focus on Results : Highlight quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your value, which enhances your ability to develop writing skills that impress.
• Seek Feedback : Share your resume with peers or mentors to gain insights and improve your writing.
• Read Examples : Analyze well-written resumes to understand effective formatting and language, helping you develop writing skills further.
• Edit Ruthlessly : Revise your resume multiple times to eliminate unnecessary words and ensure precision in your writing.

By consistently applying these strategies, you can effectively develop writing skills that will elevate your resume and increase your chances of landing interviews.

Also Read : How to Add Skills Section in Resume

FAQs about Writing Skills

What writing skills should i highlight on my resume.

When highlighting writing skills on your resume, focus on specific abilities such as technical writing, creative writing, copywriting, and editing. Tailor these skills to match the job description, emphasizing your proficiency in crafting clear, concise, and engaging content that meets the needs of your target audience.

How Can I Demonstrate My Writing Skills on a Resume?

To demonstrate your writing skills, include examples of your work, such as published articles, reports, or marketing materials. Use quantifiable achievements, like increased engagement or improved clarity, to showcase your impact. Additionally, consider adding a portfolio link to provide potential employers with direct access to your writing samples.

Are Writing Skills Important for All Job Applications?

Yes, writing skills are essential for most job applications, as effective communication is crucial in nearly every profession. Strong writing skills can enhance your ability to convey ideas, collaborate with colleagues, and engage with clients. Highlighting these skills can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your professionalism.

How Can I Improve My Writing Skills for My Resume?

To improve your writing skills for your resume, practice regularly by writing articles, blog posts, or even journaling. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and consider enrolling in writing workshops or online courses. Reading widely can also help you understand different styles and techniques, enhancing your overall writing proficiency.

Should I Tailor My Writing Skills for Different Job Applications?

Absolutely! Tailoring your writing skills for different job applications is crucial. Analyze the job description and identify the specific writing competencies required. Customize your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences, ensuring that you align your writing abilities with the needs of the employer and the role you’re pursuing.

Resume Tips

Choose the right format.

Select a resume format that best showcases your skills and experience. Common formats include chronological, functional, and combination resumes.

Tailor Your Resume

Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experiences that match the job description.

Focus on Key Sections

Include essential sections such as contact information, professional summary or objective, work experience, education, skills, and relevant certifications.

Use Clear and Concise Language

Be concise and use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in each job role.

Quantify Achievements

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with numbers or percentages to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasize transferable skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for, such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Prioritize Readability

Ensure your resume is easy to read by using a clean and professional font, adequate white space, and bullet points for listing information.

Proofread Carefully

Avoid spelling and grammar errors by proofreading your resume multiple times or asking a trusted friend or colleague to review it.

Keep it Updated

Regularly update your resume with new experiences, skills, and accomplishments to reflect your most current qualifications.

Seek Feedback

Consider seeking feedback from career advisors, mentors, or professionals in your industry to improve your resume further.

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Student Resume Templates

Our student resume templates make it easy to create a standout resume for internships, part-time jobs, and college applications. Just choose a design, click to customize, and replace the example text with your own. Simple and quick!

Double Column

A versatile two-column template that’s perfect for students aiming to balance education, skills, and extracurriculars. Great for showcasing multiple achievements without overwhelming the page.

This refined template brings a professional touch, ideal for students applying to internships or academic programs. Highlights academic accomplishments and provides a structured layout for easy reading.

A polished, compact template that makes it easy to highlight your strengths, even if you’re early in your career. Perfect for students looking to keep things straightforward and visually appealing.

A popular choice for students who need a balanced resume layout. Perfect for showcasing academics, skills, and extracurriculars, making it versatile for various applications.

A visually engaging template that lets students show a bit of personality while keeping things professional. Perfect for creative roles, club applications, or any position where you want to stand out.

A clean, refined template ideal for students who want a professional look for internship or scholarship applications. Highlights your achievements in a way that’s organized and easy to read.

In This Guide:

Student resume templates tips, why students need a resume, the best resume format for students.

Writing your resume as a student

Should high-schoolers have a resume?

Many students wonder if they even need a resume , especially if they’re only seeking part-time or seasonal jobs. However, having a resume early on helps you document your skills, activities, and achievements, making it easier to update as your experience grows. Building a resume as a student isn’t just for job applications; it can be useful for applying to internships, scholarships, and even some academic programs.

For students, choosing the right resume format is crucial. Without a lengthy work history, a functional resume —also known as a skills-based resume—often works best. This format highlights skills over job experience, making it ideal for students who may only have limited or informal work to showcase. Alternatively, the combination format offers a hybrid approach, blending both skills and a short work history section . This can be helpful if you’ve held part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer positions and want to balance both skills and experience on your resume.

Writing a resume as a student

When you’re just starting out, building a resume can feel like a challenge, but a clear, structured approach helps. Start with your name, contact information, and, if relevant, a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio. The next section, often called the summary or objective, should be short—one to two sentences that highlight your goals and strongest attributes. For example, “Dedicated high school senior with strong analytical skills, seeking an opportunity to expand my understanding of environmental science through hands-on research.” Your education section should follow, listing your school, expected graduation date, and relevant coursework, especially if it aligns with your career interests.

Be sure to include a skills section , even if it’s concise. This might include technical abilities like Microsoft Office, Google Suite, or Adobe Photoshop if you’re interested in design. Other valuable skills might include problem-solving, teamwork, or communication, especially if they apply to roles you’re seeking. Afterward, list any part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer experiences, focusing on your achievements or responsibilities. Extracurricular activities also matter , especially if they demonstrate leadership or commitment, like leading a debate club or organizing a community event.

Crafting a good objective for a student resume

An objective on a student resume should be concise and clearly state your goals. Avoid vague statements like “Seeking to expand my skills.” Instead, tailor it to the position you’re applying for, such as “Motivated senior with a passion for technology, aiming to apply my coding and analytical skills in an entry-level software development internship.” This approach makes your objective specific and relevant, demonstrating that you’ve put thought into the role.

Adding minor experiences to your resume

Even seemingly small or informal jobs, like babysitting or lawn care, can look good on a resume when described thoughtfully. Highlight the skills you used or developed in these roles, such as time management, responsibility, or communication. For example, instead of just listing “Babysitter,” you could say, “Provided reliable childcare for three families, developing strong communication and time-management skills.”

Should high schoolers have a resume?

A resume is valuable for high schoolers , even if they’re only applying to part-time jobs or volunteer positions. Not only does it show that you’re organized and goal-oriented, but it also helps you track your own growth and achievements over time. A simple resume listing education, skills, and a few volunteer or extracurricular roles can set you apart, showing potential employers or admissions officers that you’re prepared and proactive.

Choosing a format for high school students

The functional resume format is often the best fit for high school students. It allows you to focus on your skills and achievements, even if you haven’t held formal jobs. List any skills you’ve gained through school projects, volunteer work, or extracurriculars. For example, skills like “team collaboration,” which you may have gained in sports or group projects, or “public speaking,” if you’ve been active in the debate club, can make a strong impression.

Making your resume stand out for college applications

To make a resume that stands out for college applications , focus on your most unique experiences. Highlight achievements that showcase your skills, character, and commitment. For example, if you led a community recycling initiative that reduced school waste, describe the project’s impact and your role in making it happen. Include any awards, recognitions, or special projects that demonstrate your dedication to personal growth and learning.

Frequently asked questions about student resume templates

Do i need a resume as a student, should a high schooler have a resume, how does a 17-year-old write a resume with no experience, what shouldn't be on a resume, how long should your resume be at the beginning of your career.

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CEO Resume: How to Highlight Visionary Leadership and Strategic Impact

Published on November 5th, 2024

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), you are the visionary leader of the company. Your resume should demonstrate your strategic thinking, leadership abilities, and proven record of driving business success. The CEO role requires exceptional leadership skills, industry insight, and the ability to steer an organization through change and growth.

Sections to Include in Your CEO Resume

• CEO Resume Example Introduction

Step #1: Start with a Powerful Executive Summary

Step #2: highlight your leadership in work experience, step #3: emphasize your educational background and executive certifications, step #4: showcase key ceo competencies, step #5: include board memberships, awards, and additional leadership roles.

• Step #6: Craft a Tailored CEO Cover Letter
• Key Takeaways

CEO Resume Examples: Step-By-Step Guide to Writing a CEO Resume

A CEO resume should start with an executive summary that highlights your leadership capabilities and vision. Focus on your ability to drive corporate growth, navigate challenges, and lead teams to success.

Example of an Executive Summary: "Visionary CEO with 20+ years of experience leading Fortune 500 companies. Adept at driving corporate strategy, scaling businesses, and fostering innovation. Proven success in increasing revenue by 60% over five years and leading multinational teams through periods of change."

The work experience section should emphasize your strategic impact on the company. Highlight key achievements such as revenue growth, market expansion, and innovative initiatives.

How to Structure Your CEO Work Experience:

• Action-Packed Statements: Use action verbs such as "led," "executed," or "spearheaded."
• Metrics-Driven Results: Quantify your accomplishments with specific metrics (e.g., revenue increases, market expansion, cost reductions).
• Focus on Leadership: Highlight your ability to lead diverse teams and manage stakeholders.

Most CEOs have an MBA or similar qualifications. Highlight your advanced education and any executive certifications or leadership training programs that demonstrate your expertise.

Your resume should feature the competencies that are crucial to a CEO role, such as strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, team development, and global market expansion.

As a CEO, you likely have additional leadership experience outside your role. Include board memberships, awards, or any prestigious recognitions that reinforce your industry leadership and expertise.

Thomas M. A.

A literature-lover by design and qualification, Thomas loves exploring different aspects of software and writing about the same.

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