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27 Great Resume Summary Examples to Get Hired

20 min read · Updated on March 27, 2024

Your resume summary is the first impression you make on potential employers, so it's crucial to get it right

When it comes to job applications, your resume is often the first point of contact with prospective employers. It's essential to make a good impression right from the start and that's where your resume summary comes in. Your summary is a brief statement at the top of your resume that highlights your skills , experiences , and achievements , making it a key part of your job application.

In this article, you'll learn how to write the ultimate resume summary that will grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. You'll discover what makes a good summary and what to avoid, as well as how to sell yourself effectively to potential employers.

You may be wondering: what exactly is a resume summary and how do I write one? We'll answer these questions and provide examples of professional summaries for various industries.

By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create a standout resume summary that will help you to land your dream job.

What is a resume summary?

To understand a resume summary, it's important to understand the challenge that good summaries are designed to overcome. Employers who are looking for new hires often need to compare many dozens or even hundreds of resumes to find the best candidates for the job. Few hiring personnel have the time needed to thoroughly examine every single resume that they receive.

Instead, employers typically spend no more than five or six seconds scanning any given resume. If a resume manages to capture their interest in those few seconds, they'll take the time to read it in greater detail. 

However, if your resume doesn't grab their attention, it's likely to be rejected without any further examination. So, the challenge is to find a way to quickly earn the reader's interest and inspire them to read the rest of the document.

That's where your resume summary comes into play. As you'll see from our resume summary examples, a good summary is the resume equivalent of a salesperson's elevator pitch. 

This brief statement should highlight your experience and job title, one or two key skills, and a couple of your most prominent achievements. When your summary is crafted well, it will provide the employer with a quick overview of your potential value as a new hire.

Once you've written your summary, you should place it right after your contact information and resume headline , so that it's the first thing employers see. If you've done your job properly, that summary will be compelling enough to make the reader want to learn more about the type of value you can bring to the job.

How should you start a resume summary?

After your headline, you should include a brief opening statement that summarizes who you are. This statement should be concise and compelling, and it should clearly communicate your unique value proposition. Here are some examples of strong opening statements:

Innovative Marketing Manager with over five years of experience in developing and executing successful campaigns for Fortune 500 companies

Results-driven Sales Executive with a proven track record of exceeding revenue targets and building strong client relationships

Skilled Customer Service Representative with expertise in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and communication

Tips for writing a resume summary

To make sure you get your summary spot on, follow our top tips:

Be specific

When writing a resume summary, it's essential to be specific and quantify your achievements wherever possible. Instead of saying, "Experienced marketing professional," try saying, "Experienced marketing professional with expertise in managing successful social media campaigns, resulting in increases of up to 30% in website traffic."

This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

Reflect on your career

When it comes to writing a strong resume summary, you should engage in some self-reflection. Before putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), take some time to think about your key skills, experiences, and achievements. This will help you to identify the most important information to include in your summary. Review your past roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments, and think about how they relate to the job you're applying for. Ask yourself:

What have I achieved in my career?

What skills have I developed?

What makes me stand out from other applicants?

Identify your key skills

One of the most important things to include in your resume summary is your key skills. These are the abilities that set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your value to potential employers. Begin by making a list of your top skills, then prioritize them based on relevance to the job you're applying for.

Highlight your relevant experiences

Next, think about relevant experiences that you can include in your summary. This includes any previous jobs or internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that have given you valuable experience. Consider what you've learned and achieved in each role and how that relates to the job you're applying for.

You should focus on what is most relevant to your target job. Here are some examples:

Proven ability to increase sales revenue by 20% year on year

Expertise in project management and team leadership

Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365

Confident working with a diverse range of clients and stakeholders

Keep it concise

Remember, your resume summary should be concise and to the point. Stick to the most important information and avoid filler words or irrelevant details. A good rule of thumb is to keep your summary to 3-5 sentences.

Use action verbs

When describing your experiences and achievements, use strong action verbs and adverbs to convey a sense of accomplishment and momentum. For example, instead of saying, "Responsible for managing social media accounts," say, "Successfully manages social media accounts."

Quantify your achievements

Wherever possible, use numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements. This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers. For example, instead of saying, "Helped to increase sales," say, "Helped to increase sales by 20% in the first year."

Tailor it to the job

Make sure your resume summary is tailored to the job you're applying for. This means highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Look at the job description and identify the key requirements, and then make sure your summary addresses these points.

Professional resume summary examples

Since there's nothing quite like seeing an example of a great summary, we've compiled twenty-seven great resume summary examples that you can use as inspirational templates for your own perfect resume . Below, you'll find summary examples for a variety of different job roles, including:

Customer Service Representative

Sales Representative

Marketing Manager

Project Manager

Software Developer

Human Resources Manager

Graphic Designer

Registered Nurse

Financial Analyst

Administrative Assistant

Data Entry Clerk 

Business Analyst

Operations Manager 

Mental Health Counselor

High School Teacher

Event Manager

Digital Marketing Manager

Content Marketer

SEO Specialist

Bank Teller

Software Support Specialist

Data Scientist

Dental Assistant

1.     Customer Service Representative resume summary example

"Highly motivated Customer Service Representative with 5 years of experience in delivering service excellence. Skilled in conflict resolution and problem-solving, resulting in a 95% customer satisfaction rate. Proven ability to multitask in fast-paced environments while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience and skills while also showcasing their relevant achievements in ensuring customer satisfaction. It mentions how much experience they have and calls out a measurable success.

2.     Sales Representative resume summary example

"Dynamic Sales Representative with a track record of exceeding sales quotas by 20%+. Proficient in consultative sales techniques and relationship building. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills with the ability to close deals."

Why it works : This summary provides a quantifiable achievement to show the candidate's success in their previous sales roles while also highlighting their key skills in relationship building and communication.

3.     Marketing Manager resume summary example

"Strategic Marketing Manager with 7+ years of experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns across multiple channels. Skilled in market research and analysis, campaign optimization, and team leadership. Proven track record of driving revenue growth and increasing brand awareness."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's experience and leadership skills while also showcasing their ability to drive results through successful marketing campaigns. The candidate has also demonstrated their ability to grow revenues and raise brand awareness.

4.     Project Manager resume summary example

"Accomplished Project Manager, with confidence in leading cross-functional teams and managing project timelines, budgets, and resources. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's extensive project management experience and emphasizes their ability to successfully deliver projects while working with multiple stakeholders.

5.     Software Developer resume summary example

"Innovative Software Developer with 5+ years of experience in designing, developing, and implementing complex software applications. Skilled in programming languages including Java, Python, and C++. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in Agile environments to deliver high-quality code on time."

Why it works : This job seeker has taken the time to highlight some of the technical skills they possess, while emphasizing their ability to work in Agile environments. They also call attention to the fact that they can take a software development project from design to implementation.

6.     Human Resources Manager resume summary example

"Experienced Human Resources Manager specializing in talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management. Skilled in developing and implementing HR policies and procedures that align with business objectives and values. Proven track record of building and managing high-performing teams."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience in various HR functions and emphasizes their ability to build and manage teams. It also shows that they can perform managerial functions like developing policies and procedures.

7.     Graphic Designer resume summary example

"Creative Graphic Designer with particular expertise in developing and executing visually stunning designs for print and digital media. Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud, with a focus on typography and layout. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously."

Why it works : This summary works well because it showcases their technical skills and experience while also emphasizing creativity and an ability to work collaboratively.

8.     Registered Nurse resume summary example

"Compassionate Registered Nurse with over 10 years' experience in providing high-quality patient care. Skilled at patient assessment, medication administration, and treatment plan development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with patients and their families."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's clinical and patient care experience and highlights their key nursing and interpersonal skills.

9.     Financial Analyst resume summary example

“Detail-oriented Financial Analyst with a strong background in financial modeling, data analysis, and forecasting. Combines advanced Excel skills with the ability to create and manage financial reports. Able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.”

Why it works : This summary showcases the applicant's specific skills and experience in financial analysis and highlights their proficiency in Excel, a crucial tool for the role.

10.  Administrative Assistant resume summary example

“Skilled Administrative Assistant with 8 years of experience in administrative support and office administration. Resilient, detail-oriented, and able to work under extreme pressure in a team environment. Excellent interpersonal, client management, and interdepartmental liaison skills. Committed to successful management of multiple simultaneous projects, strict adherence to deadline requirements, and accurate maintenance of schedules, meeting obligations, and records.”

Why it works : An Administrative Assistant wears many hats and experiences many challenges. This resume summary covers a lot of ground to demonstrate that the candidate understands those obstacles and knows how to overcome them.

11.  Data Entry Clerk resume summary example

“Task-driven and results-oriented professional with more than 10 years of experience in data entry, project coordination, and customer service. Uses interpersonal skills including effective communication to build rapport and positive relations with customers, gather vital information, and ensure rapid and accurate entry of data into designated software programs.”

Why it works : This resume summary is effective because it gets right to the heart of the job: dealing with customers and entering data into databases. The candidate also emphasizes their results-focused mindset, project skills, and key soft skills.

12.  Business Analyst resume summary example

“Results-driven Business Analyst with a proven record in expanding profitability by 55% in the retail industry.  Confident carrying out data-focused analysis that provides key insights and recommendations for growth strategies. Strong interpersonal and team building skills, innovative approach to problem-solving , and resolute commitment to efficiency and productivity.”

Why it works : Business analysis is all about using data and research to deliver key insights that result in improved operations and greater business success. This summary hits all the right notes as it focuses on key skills, a solutions-oriented mindset, and notable achievements that reflect real value for employers.

13.  Operations Manager resume summary example

“Results-oriented Operations Manager with more than 10 years of supervisory experience in high-level operational environments. Adept at coordinating both large and small teams, outside consultants, and mid-level management personnel. Successfully introduced Lean manufacturing principles that reduced costs by 32% via waste elimination and process revitalization.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary emphasizes key skills that the employer wants to see in any managerial candidate, while also showcasing their knowledge of best operational practices and a commitment to cost reduction.

14.  Mental Health Counselor resume summary example

“Compassionate Mental Health Counselor with more than a decade of experience addressing mental health issues and behavioral concerns. Proven success in both individual and group counseling environments, assisting clients in gaining insight and understanding of their unique conditions. Specialized focus on working with young adults and families, with an emphasis on addressing substance abuse root causes and other social factors involved in mental health.”

Why it works : This resume summary is notable for citing important skills like empathy and compassion. It also focuses attention on the candidate's experience in dealing with common mental health concerns and hints at their preferred approach to assisting patients.

15.  High School Teacher resume summary example

“Dynamic high school teacher with 12 years of experience developing approved curricula for more than 500 students in grades 9-12. Proven track record of helping students to achieve a 98% passing rate in both Western Civilization and World History instruction. Actively engaged in every aspect of education, at the district, local, and parent-teacher level.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary highlights their vast experience, while illustrating their success in ensuring that their students learn what they need to know to pass the class. They also demonstrate their commitment to the educational process by highlighting their involvement in every area of education.

16.  Accountant resume summary example

“Diligent and detail-oriented CPA with seven years of experience in accounting, process improvement, and problem-solving. Skilled at identifying inefficiencies and using reporting to offer insights that can guide employers to better practices and greater profitability. At XYZ Corp., identified labor usage inefficiency that motivated management to introduce new scheduling that eliminated $300,000 in labor waste.”

Why it works : In addition to highlighting a wide range of valuable skills, this candidate also focused on a quantifiable achievement that illustrates real value. This type of summary would certainly capture a hiring manager's attention and make them want to read more!

17.  Event Manager resume summary example

“Resilient and creative Event Manager with 6 years of corporate experience. Detail-oriented perfectionist with experience in project management, team leadership, and customer relations. Successfully organized and executed more than 40 major business conferences, hosting thousands of guests. Major clients have included three Fortune 500 firms with multi-million-dollar event budgets.

Why it works : As Event Managers go, this one has certainly made the rounds. That summary of achievements highlights their ability to manage even large-scale events, dealing with every aspect of the project. How could a serious hiring manager not want to learn more about this candidate?

18.  IT Manager resume summary example

“Dedicated IT Manager with significant experience in an innovative and growing tech firm. Skilled leader with experience in systems analysis, database architecture, problem-solving, and troubleshooting. Superior client satisfaction rate of more than 99%. Created and implemented IT troubleshooting process that reduced internal client service time by 30%.”

Why it works : This IT professional focuses attention on their key leadership skills , while also mentioning the hard skills that any hiring manager is likely to be looking for. There's also a nice nod to their history of satisfying clients, as well as a notable and measurable achievement.

19.  Product Designer resume summary example

“Innovative Design Engineer with 5 years of experience in the development of products and packages. Skilled in market research, brand development and alignment, and design elements. Led team of seventeen Designers in the creation of industrial products that yielded $20 million in sales in the first month after launch.”

Why it works : This resume summary uses some important keywords, action verbs, and descriptive language to describe the candidate's key skills and experiences. It also cites an impressive product design achievement, along with real numbers that showcase value.

20.  Content Marketer resume summary example

“Creative marketing professional with 7 years' experience as a Content Marketer. Skilled writer who understands how written communication empowers business growth and expansion. Expertise in development of compelling content that drives activities across multiple media channels. Adaptable , detail-oriented, and focused on a brand-building approach to content strategy that drives real results. Developed a cross-platform content strategy that boosted sales conversion rates by 37%.

Why it works : This Content Marketer focuses on their key skills and keen insights into how content impacts business profitability. They even included a measurable result that demonstrates their focus on adding value to their employer's bottom line.

21.  SEO Specialist resume summary example

“Results-focused SEO expert with 6 years of experience in keyword mastery, the promotion of sustainable content, and growing organic website search engine rankings. Proven track record of SEO success, using content development and link outreach to expand website traffic activity from 10,000 daily visitors to more than 2,000,000 per year.”

Why it works : Many hiring managers may not fully understand SEO, but they will understand the need to get more eyes on their digital content. This candidate speaks to that need by focusing on website rankings, content, and overall web traffic - while including a quantifiable achievement that demonstrates their ability to make things happen.

22.  Copywriter resume summary example

“Website Copywriter with 5 years of experience in developing content that creates real conversions. Cross-channel expertise including website content, advertising, newsletters, press releases, email, and podcast / video scripts. Proven track record of increasing social traffic by 36% and driving a 22% boost in landing page conversions.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary is focused not only on the type of things they write, but how those content pieces directly contribute to the company's online presence and sales conversion rate. This illustrates the writer's understanding of how their work aligns with their employer's business needs and goals.

23.  Bank Teller resume summary example

“Empathetic and personable Bank Teller with more than 4 years of experience in client interactions at First Bank. Detail-oriented customer management approach, focused on superior customer experiences and client retention. Strict adherence to bank policy, including safety deposit guidelines, customer account security, and due diligence. Efficiently and effectively processed more than 200 client account interactions each day.”

Why it works : For a Bank Teller, much of the role's value lies in the employee's ability to serve as the face of the branch. This summary is effective because it showcases the Teller's knowledge of bank procedures, while also highlighting their commitment to creating an excellent customer experience.

24.  Software Support Specialist resume summary example

“Problem-solving Software Support Specialist with 8 years of experience in customer-facing user assistance. Provided key problem resolution services for hundreds of customers, with a focus on maximizing their satisfaction with the company to increase loyalty and retention. Experienced in both customer and B2B interactions, with a specialized talent for explaining technical problems in language that is easily understood by the average layperson.”

Why it works : This resume summary focuses not only on the candidate's specialized skills in solving computer issues, but also highlights their ability to simplify their explanations to customers.

25.  Data Scientist resume summary example

“Committed Data Scientist focused on analytical insights that can drive company growth and development. More than eight years of experience providing data-driven analysis to Fortune 500 executives, based on comprehensive statistical models and detailed historical data patterns. Successfully provided insights and recommendations used to increase company profits by 32% over a two-year period.”

Why it works : Data science may not seem like the most exciting field, but hiring managers are always on the hunt for candidates who understand why data matters. This candidate's focus on providing insights that can translate into real value for the employer is something that is likely to earn a hiring manager's interest.

26.  Dental Assistant resume summary example

“Dental Assistant with 5 years of experience with patient preparation, processing, and administrative support. Keen attention to detail and a commitment to dental health and aesthetics. Skilled in dental impressions, hands-on assistance during procedures, x-rays, and record maintenance. Fully committed to developing rapport with patients that creates a welcoming environment and a joyful experience.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary not only highlights key Dental Assistant requirements, but also conveys their personal approach to teamwork and patient care.

27.  Architect resume summary example

“Creative Architect experienced in high-end architectural design and development oversight. Ten years of proven success in creating sustainable designs that earn rave reviews and commendations from clients. Skilled in adapting to new challenges and working under pressure to achieve every client's vision. Consistently produces designs and project plans that come in on time and under budget, at 10%-30% less cost than industry competitors.”

Why it works : In this summary, the candidate highlights key skills that employers will want to see, while also emphasizing quantifiable results that demonstrate competitive value for the employer. They also showcase their ability to not only design architectural structures but to do so with a conscious awareness of critical factors like budgetary concerns, deadlines, sustainability and market competition.

Bonus: how to write a resume summary if you have no experience

Of course, it's also important to know how to write a resume summary if you have no experience. Here's a quick resume summary example that you can adapt if you are just entering the job market:

“Recent Marketing graduate, seeking an entry-level position to kickstart a career in the field. Demonstrated strong leadership and teamwork skills gained through involvement in various extracurricular activities, including volunteering at local events and leading group projects. Proficient in Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud. Passionate about using marketing strategies to create engaging content and drive brand awareness.”

Why it works: This summary works because it highlights the candidate's relevant hard and soft skills and qualifications, even though they don't have direct career experience. The use of action words such as "demonstrated" and "proficient" shows the candidate's confidence in their abilities, which can be attractive to potential employers, showcasing the candidate's potential for success in an entry-level marketing role.

Key takeaways

A well-written resume summary can make a significant impact on a job application. A good summary should highlight relevant skills and experiences, use clear and concise language, and avoid unnecessary information. Feel free to customize any of the resume summary examples we've provided to help ensure that your resume captures the attention of potential employers.

We know it can be difficult to condense a whole career full of skills and achievements into a paragraph of only a few sentences. If you're unsure about the document you've crafted, why not send it for a free resume review by our team of expert resume writers? 

Recommended reading:

Ask Amanda: How Are a Resume Objective and a Resume Summary Different?

How to Write a Standout Career Summary

Business Acumen: What It Is and How You Can Showcase It On Your Resume

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

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

See how your resume stacks up.

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• Complete Guide To Writing The Perfect Resume Summary

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Copy Editor

I'm a copyeditor, writer and author with an English Literature degree and a meticulous eye for detail. Apart from creating product reviews, my mission at Think Big is to ensure that our facts are 100% correct and our writing exceeds your expectations.

Editor | Business & Investing

I lead a team of writers and editors to build Arielle's Think Big blog. Together, we share an audacious goal: create Australia's #1 publication for high-performance individuals.

Last updated: April 21st, 2024

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You want to impress the hiring manager with your resume introduction, but the window of opportunity is shorter than you think. Some HR professionals argue that a hiring manager takes six seconds to determine if a resume belongs in the “Call” or “No Call” pile.

From the very first word, the clock is ticking. But it’s not just humans you need to impress.

One in three Australian companies are utilising AI tools to fill vacancies, so your resume summary must contain keywords that will help it get past robots’ filters.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to craft an authentic resume introduction that appeals to both hiring managers and applicant tracking systems, and I’ll share with you plenty of examples along the way.

By the way, do you want expert help with writing your resume? Consider using our:

• Recommended free resume builder , if you’re on a budget.
• Premium resume writing service , if you’re a mid-career professional.
• Executive resume writing service , if you’re a senior leader.

What Is A Resume Summary?

Your resume summary is a short introductory statement that features at the top of your resume. It comprises the most notable aspects of your professional persona, such as your experience and accomplishments.

This is not to be confused with a career objective.

• Resume summary – an overview of your professional career.
• Career objective – a description of your future aspirations.

A career or resume objective is forward-looking – and not used in Australia – while a resume summary focuses on your track record.

This can be problematic if you lack experience, but I’ll show you how to solve this problem later.

Your resume summary isn’t a personal statement where you outline your dream job and enter into a flowery spiel about how the world is your oyster.

It’s the written equivalent of an elevator pitch.

Ingredients Of A Great Resume Summary.

Much like making a cup of coffee, there’s a natural order to writing a good resume summary. You need to add the elements in the correct sequence. Here’s a list of ingredients:

• Current job title or educational background.
• Your experience or qualifications summary.
• Most relevant skills.
• Most relevant achievements.

Here’s how that would appear for a resume summary statement for a Chief Sustainability Officer job post:

Skills can be inferred rather than explicitly expressed. The best way to do this is by including metrics of your accomplishments.

In the above example, we can reasonably assume that the candidate has excellent project management skills, given that they implemented such a transformational project.

But what about technical roles?

It’s not necessary to start listing your soft skills – save that for later.

However, if you are applying for a technical role such as a data scientist, you should mention the critical hard skills required for the job, such as your ability to code in Python.

If in doubt, check the job ad for essential hard skills.

Here’s a quick refresher on hard skills versus soft skills :

Rather than explicitly expressing that you have the skill, it’s better to demonstrate how you use that skill.

Which is better?

The latter describes the specific application of the programming tool, whereas the former withholds that information and keeps the hiring manager in the dark about the candidate’s proficiency.

You Must Tailor Your Resume Summary To The Job.

Let’s back up for a minute.

Everything we write must point toward the job description. You need to know what the company is looking for, which includes:

• The skills the candidate requires.
• Experience carrying out similar job duties.
• If the candidate’s personality aligns with the culture.

Take, for example, this job vacancy listed on Indeed for a Management Consultant position at Accenture. Here are some of the duties that are prominently featured:

• Responsible for rigorous data insights , to identify and validate value-creation opportunities.
• Design compelling business strategies and transformation solutions.
• Construct advanced quantitative models and synthesise large amounts of information.

This particular consultancy role is in the banking sector, and there is a considerable emphasis on data and information management.

Now, management consultants come in many flavours: strategic, financial, operations, marketing, and the list goes on. So, which achievement should a marketing consultant focus on when applying for this specific role at Accenture?

• The quantitative market research they conducted that involved over 100,000 respondents.
• The creative media campaign they managed that reached a million viewers.

Both may be equally impressive, but which showcases the skills that the Accenture recruiters are looking for? Your resume opening should echo the role you are seeking.

Study the job description.

A tailored resume summary statement will stand out for all the right reasons.

Brain Dump.

Once you’ve immersed yourself in the job description, you’ll no doubt have an abundance of ideas flowing. At this stage, you should tame your inner perfectionist.

You’re exploring new ideas.

Just start writing and dump your ideas and words on a page and clean them up later. This is a freewriting session where you can download your mind onto a blank page.

The worst thing you can do is lose an idea – a certain phrase or a certain subject you want to include. It’s much easier to create a rough first draft and improve it. By writing down all these ideas, you are providing yourself with choices.

You can then decide which direction you want to go – for instance, which achievements and skills to mention that align with the specific position.

If you skip this process and just start aimlessly writing, who knows where you’ll end up? Remember, Roman philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca said, “If a man knows not which port he sails, no wind is favourable.”

Applicant Tracking Systems & AI.

Almost 80% of Australian recruiters are using applicant tracking systems, which collect relevant information from applications and filter them for the most relevant candidates.

Like it or not, recruiters need more efficient ways of filtering candidates out, and applicant tracking systems are here to stay. So, here are some tips for how you can prepare your resume summary:

• Include important keywords.
• Use a standard font like Arial or Helvetica.
• Minimise the use of graphics, text boxes, and tables.

The most important of these is the inclusion of keywords, but don’t get carried away with that just yet. You will hinder your chances if you don’t follow the guidance below.

Add keywords and avoid stuffing.

Referring back to the Management Consultant position at Accenture, the best place to start is to take a copy of the job description and paste it into a free tool like Duplicate Word Finder .

Once pasted, you will see an exhaustive list of duplicate words in the right-hand pane, some of which will be completely irrelevant, like “work”, “with”, and “more”.

These can be dismissed.

Towards the top of the list, some industry- and job-specific words will stand out alongside the number of mentions:

• Consulting (6).
• Operations (4).

“Consulting” is one of the most prominent keywords.

Think about how you can insert this (or one of its variants: consult, consultant, consultation, consultancy, consulted) in the following statement:

With a subtle rewording, this could read:

If you repeat keywords or stuff them into your resume summary, the applicant tracking software will flag the information as poor quality. A single mention will more than suffice.

The keywords should fit naturally with the syntax of the sentence. A well-structured sentence without keywords is always preferable to an illegible sentence loaded with keywords.

Without further ado, here are some professional resume summary examples to steer you in the right direction.

Resume Summary Example For Entry-Level Job Seekers.

The following entry-level resume summary examples will help those who are fresh out of university or college, or those ready to climb the career ladder.

Don’t let your lack of experience deter you. Instead, focus on your academic achievements and any in-depth knowledge you have acquired through self-study.

Job role: Telephone Customer Service Personnel

Resume Summary Example For Middle Management Jobs.

This resume opening statement is for those who have extensive experience in leading a team and are ready to take a sideways step or step up to the next rung on the professional ladder.

Job role: Social Media Manager

Resume Summary Examples For Technical Roles.

This resume introduction is an example for a technical role, where there is a greater need to emphasise hard skills.

Job role: App Developer

Resume Introduction Example For Operational Roles.

Here’s a resume introduction example for an operational role which, like technical roles, requires an emphasis on hard skills. Examples of operational roles include teachers, tradespersons, and nurses.

Job role: Prison Nurse

Resume Introduction Example For Executive Positions.

Resume opening statements for leaders, visionaries, and corporate entrepreneurs should exude experience. Here’s an example.

Job role: Non-Executive Director of Innovation

Operations Manager Resume Summary.

An operations manager’s resume will showcase one’s ability to lead and inspire a team, overcome complex operational challenges, and achieve output targets.

Job role: Branch Operations Manager

“Tenacious operations manager working for a household beauty brand, overseeing the product management system. I ensure that our operations are efficiently executed, forecast production and stock ordering, and uphold compliant practices. In 2023, I won Colleague of the Year for my outstanding contributions in an end-to-end supply chain project which increased Overall Operational Effectiveness by 13%.”

Data Analyst Resume Summary.

A resume summary for a data analyst should hone in on hard skills and demonstrate proficiency in other administrative tasks.

Job role: Reporting and Insights Analyst

“Financially astute data analyst with 20 years of experience working for insurance brokers. I have advanced knowledge of SQL and integrated a company-wide data warehouse that replaced a legacy system implemented by external consultants (for an insane fee!). I’m also proficient in the use of Power BI, Python, and Alteryx.

Teacher Resume Summary .

A teacher’s resume summary will underscore their proven ability to lead a class, teach a subject-specific curriculum, and implement behaviour management practices.

Job role: Secondary Teacher – English Studies

“Experienced secondary teacher of English Literature and Language Studies for 18 years, holding additional responsibilities as Head of Year and Leader of Extra-Curricular Activites. I’m also a published author of a trilogy of thrillers and have academic work published in the English Australia Journal . In my most recent year, my students had a pass rate of over 72% in their end-of-school English exam.”

Receptionist Resume Summary .

A receptionist’s resume summary should outline their experience in customer service, administrative tasks, and communication skills.

Job role: Dental Receptionist and Administrative Assistant

“Highly organized and friendly receptionist. I have 40 years of experience greeting patients, scheduling appointments, handling phone calls, maintaining records, and providing excellent customer service. I am fluent in all MS Office applications and use other software to carry out my daily duties. In 2023, I achieved my long-service award after working for 25 years at National Dental Care.”

What To Avoid When Writing A Resume Summary.

Now that we’ve covered what you should do, I want to just highlight three salient aspects of resume summary writing that you shouldn’t do.

Below, in the FAQs section, I cover exactly how long a resume intro paragraph should be.

1. Don’t use hyperbolic language.

Almost every other article out there seems to be written by marketing wizards and wordsmiths who tell you that you need a powerful hook – and I’ve deliberately steered away from providing you with this kind of advice.

Writing hooks is a dark art, and candidates all too often veer into exaggeration. Hiring managers aren’t unused to seeing statements like:

• Single-handedly saved the company from financial ruin by smashing my sales targets.
• Manufacturing maestro with the Midas touch who turns raw materials into gold.

Exaggerated statements repel recruiters.

Weed them out.

2. Don’t be vanilla.

After reading the above, you may well conclude that a resume’s opening statement should be void of expression.

That’s not the case.

The other extreme to avoid is being too vanilla. The goal of your resume intro is to demonstrate who you are by sharing the highlights of your professional career. Playing small won’t do you any favours.

These highlights should be things you’re proud of. It’s fine to let your passion shine, providing it doesn’t come across as an egocentric pat on the back.

3. Don’t skip the proofreading.

I won’t labour the point here about bad grammar.

Your first, second, and third drafts will likely contain grammatical errors.

When writing, your eyes become trained to see what they expect to see, and pesky errors escape our detection.

There are no excuses for bad grammar nowadays because:

• Grammarly , the most popular software for copywriters, is free to download on your desktop and as a Chrome extension.
• Text To Speech Reader is another free tool to use online; simply paste your resume summary in here and listen to it play back. Errors that escape your detection from your eyes won’t escape your ears.

Once you’ve completed your proofreading, save a copy as a PDF to prevent any further changes from being made. A stray finger can introduce errors that you may be blissfully unaware of when submitting.

Final Word On Your Resume Introduction.

If you’re on the job hunt, you may be tempted to deviate from this advice. Perhaps you think that being contrary will make you stand out.

But you won’t make a good first impression if you use your resume summary statement as an opportunity to tell anecdotal stories about your personal interests or, as I once read, about the time when you got a selfie with David Beckham and how his words of encouragement inspired you to become the person you are today.

A well-crafted resume summary tailored to the specific job will highlight your professional background and bring your key skills to the hiring manager’s attention.

That’s all they want to know about you at this stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Intros.

Here are some frequently asked questions about writing an effective resume summary that will strengthen your job applications.

What is the ideal length of a resume summary?

Your resume summary should be no more than five sentences long, but two to four sentences is optimal. As a general rule of thumb, keep below 70 words. The clue is in the name: summary.

If you’re tempted to “go the extra mile”, maybe because you believe your experiences are worthy of an extra paragraph or two (or maybe you’re convinced an autobiography would be better), it may come across as self-indulgent.

Highlight what truly matters.

Can I use the same resume summary for a different job application?

You aren’t fooling anyone if you copy and paste your resume summary for different job applications. A different job warrants a different resume summary. Each business operates in a different sector and has its own distinct culture, and each job post has different duties.

Most applicants who claim they’re applying for hundreds of jobs without landing a single job interview are relying on the same formula.

Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results – that’s the definition of insanity.

Quality over quantity matters.

How do I make my resume summary stand out from the competition?

Fellow candidates, that is, your competitors, are using AI to generate their resume summaries. More fool them! Recruiters can smell these a mile off. Here are two contrasting resume summaries for a Chief Sustainability Officer job vacancy:

Which one do you connect with?

The AI-generated piece tells us nothing specific about the candidate. It makes two key assertions but provides no supplementary evidence:

• Proven track record of implementing strategies.
• Leader with experience in driving transformative change.

A potential employer will wonder what relevant experience this candidate has in actually driving transformative change. Whereas the human-written summary statement gives specific examples of how they drove transformative change since they’ve illustrated this point with the example of eliminating single-use plastic.

Besides, applicant tracking systems can now accurately predict the likelihood that content has been written by generative AI.

Just like Willy Wonka’s golden goose egg contraption (the Eggdicator), which discriminates between good and bad eggs, no matter how polished a resume looks, it will automatically land in the “good egg” or “bad egg” pile, depending on its composition.

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Australia CV Tips & Format Requirements

Applying for a job in Australia? This guide has the tips, examples, & format requirements needed to write the perfect Australian CV. Create your VisualCV today!

Australia CV Requirements

As with most countries, Australia has its own specific work culture and set of expectations for CVs. When applying for a job in Australia, it is important to ensure that your CV adheres to Australian CV requirements and is tailored to impress Australian recruiters and employers.

Browse our gallery of resume examples here.

Australia CV Tips and Rules:

Australia CV Length: For experienced professionals, a three or four page resume is expected in Australia. If you are recently graduated or new to the workforce, two pages is sufficient, but as soon as your work history is robust enough for three to four pages, your resume should expand accordingly.

Australia CV Terminology: The terms ‘resume’ and ‘CV’ are used synonymously in Australia - they refer to the same document. The word ‘resume’ is used more commonly, however, so if in doubt, use that one.

Australia CV Language: When writing your resume, be sure to use correct Australian English - don’t forget those extra u’s, as in ‘colour’ and ‘labour’ (as opposed to the American spellings ‘color’ and ‘labor’).

Australia CV Format, Order and Layout:

Australia CV Photo: As a rule of thumb, it is best not to include a photo in your Australian CV. If you intend to host your resume online, or if you are in a creative industry where visuals are highly valued, then an image may be an asset. Be sure to do your research, however - if the company you are applying to isn’t expecting a photo, it can hurt your chances. As Australian HR and recruitment consultant Karalyn Brown says , “When you put your photo on your resume you are inviting a recruiter with their own set of prejudices, to consider how you look along with what you may have achieved.”

Australia CV Personal Information: The only personal information required for an Australian resume is your contact information - your name, address, phone number, mobile number and email address (which should be some variation of your name - keep it professional: [email protected] or something similar). Any other personal information such as age, marital status, and number of children is not relevant to your experience or job performance and should not be included.

Australia CV Objective: It is recommended, though not mandatory, that you include a Career Objective at the top of your resume. This can also be called a Career Profile or Summary . Your objective serves as a short introduction to you and to your resume and should give the hiring manager a reason to continue reading. According to Karalyn Brown , “A resume without a career objective is like a movie without a title, or a trailer.” Your objective should be brief - three to five lines - and should give a very clear description of the experience you are bringing to the position, and what your goals and ambitions are for the role you are applying to.

Australia CV Work Experience: Display your work experience in reverse-chronological order, with your most recent position at the top. Each entry should include the beginning and end date of your tenure, and be sure to account for gaps in your employment. Give details about your work experience , including your responsibilities and achievements in each role. Use quantifiable information wherever possible, and use powerful verbs like ‘delivered’, ‘trained’, and ‘promoted’.

Australian CV Education: List your relevant degrees and diplomas in reverse-chronological order , including dates. Include the name of the institution, your major, minor, and specialization, as well as any significant awards you may have received.

Resume template: Browse through our gallery of Australian resume templates .

3 Australian CV Examples

Hr australia cv example.

Engineer CV Example Australia

Australian CV example

Other sections for your Australian CV:

If you have information that you would like to display that was not covered by the sections above, you can include them in a separate section on your resume. Other sections include:

Skills: It is common to include a simple list of skills kept separate from your work history. This is to provide a quick, at-a-glance look at what you excel at, without delving into your experience too much.

Volunteer Experience: Volunteering experience should be noted on your resume. If you prefer, you can include volunteer experience in your Work History section, but be sure to note when a role is a volunteer position. Languages: If you are fluent in multiple languages, noting them may be an asset.

References: A simple ‘References available on request’ note will do here. It is not necessary to provide references until requested to by an employer or recruiter.

Does Australia Use CV or Resume?

In Australia, CV and Resume are used interchangeably. So you are free to select between either as your word of choice.

How do I Write a Good Australian CV?

Important things to keep in mind while writing your Australian CV is that your CV should be more than 1 page, you should follow Australian English, avoid including a photo and customize your CV for each job that you are applying to.

What is the Right Length for an Australian CV?

Most Australian hiring managers expect a CV to be more than 1 page long. An Australian CV should expand in number of pages as the experience of the job applicant increases.

Should I Put Address on my Australian CV?

While we recommend that you add your current location on your Australian CV, adding the full address isn’t advisable. Avoid listing the street name and simply list the city and the state you live in instead.

Conclusion:

A well written and correctly formatted resume is integral to your job search. When applying for positions in Australia, it is important to tailor your resume to suit Australian CV requirements and expectations. Don’t let a poor resume stand between you and a great career in Australia!

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3 Tips For A Killer Resume Summary Statement

Executives have the unique problem of conveying their entire value as a leader on a single page, which is called the Executive Summary. On your Resume, we call it your Resume Summary Statement.

Your Resume Summary Statement is the first section on your Resume (below your contact details) that highlights your professional skills and experience. Never use a Career Objective Statement! Always ensure that this section of your Resume is optimised so that you are able to sell yourself to the recruiter

If properly written, a Resume Summary Statement can persuade employers of your true value and compel them to hire you for the role.

But getting a Resume Summary Statement right can be difficult. It needs to concisely show how your experience, accomplishments and skill set are relevant to the hiring company.

Here are some tips for how to write a good Summary Statement for your Resume:

Step 1: Map Out Your Value

Page Contents

First, you need to give thought to what you need your Resume Summary Statement to say about yourself and what you offer. Answering the following seven questions will help here.

• What are the top three things about myself I should tell a hiring manager?
• What are my top three career achievements?
• Which subject matter do I have expertise in?
• How do my personal traits add value to an organisation?
• What am I aiming to achieve next?
• What unique knowledge and skills do I bring to an organisation?

Step 2: Identify Your Value Proposition 

Your value proposition in your Resume Summary Statement is the foundation of your sales pitch and will inform every bit of your Resume.

It’s made up of your unique blend of skills, personality traits, experience and expertise. To start your opening Resume Statement, just remember each point needs to answer one question:

“What value does this part of me bring to a company?”

If you don’t understand what your points of value are, then write down your strengths and weaknesses. Then work out the value of your strengths and how your weaknesses can be addressed. 

Step 3: Measure Your Achievements 

In your Resume Summary Statement, you need to quantify your achievements by including tangible results in your achievement summaries.

This will add context to the situation. For example, “Grew marketing revenue by 78% in the first quarter by transitioning to paid syndication.”

Resume Summary Statement example:

Here’s an example of what a Resume Summary Statement could look like:

Tactical and well-established Sales Manager with 10 years’ experience in operational strategy, partnership negotiation, marketing and design. With a long background in brand management, last year saw me partner with several ASX 100 companies and manage over $750 mil in advertising for the Asia–Pacific region. Developed and executed sales strategies for start-up Exotech which generated $280K profit between 2017-2018 through strategic alliances and new online distribution networks. I hold an MBA from Monash University and have established partnerships with more than 50 C-level executives in the tech sector in Australia. 

Find out more about how to write your Resume Summary Statement

Writing a winning Resume Summary Statement will require a lot of work but it will be well worth it.

Remember, this is all about showing your value to the market.

At Career Success Australia, we work closely with you to make sure your personal brand and resume are perfect.

Contact us today – and start preparing for a career in Australia.

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How To Write an Australian Resume

In This Guide:

What is an australian resume format, what sections to include in your australian resume, example australian resume, final thoughts on an australian resume.

Searching for a new job is an ongoing process, but there are ways to decrease the time you spend looking for the ideal position. When you have an outstanding resume, you increase your chances of the hiring managers pulling your document out from the stack of other applicants.

Australia pays a higher minimum wage than the United States, so it’s no surprise that many job seekers want to move to make a better living. Read on to learn how an Australian resume differs from the standard format. You’ll find out what sections you should include to ensure the hiring manager knows you’re the right fit for the job.

An Australian resume looks similar to standard resumes, but there are some key differences you won’t want to miss. For example, skipping details can make the difference between a hiring manager giving you a callback or passing you by for a candidate that paid attention to the specifics.

A resume and a CV are two distinct documents in the United States. However, Australian job postings use the terms interchangeably. Therefore, as long as you have a resume that includes the sections below, you can apply to jobs that ask for a resume or CV with the same document.

Australian resumes are typically three to four pages long, depending on your work experience. New graduates looking for entry-level positions might have a two-page resume. This length differs from the standards in the United States, which ask for a concise one-page document.

When you’re ready to create your Australian resume, include the following sections. You can put them in different orders depending on your strengths. For example, professionals with plenty of work experience use the reverse chronological format to showcase relevant jobs. New graduates list education first, while people changing careers highlight their skills.

You should follow formatting guidelines regardless of the layout you choose for your Australian resume. Use a dark font so it’s easy to read. Write your resume in correct Australian English to show the hiring manager you can adapt to the language and culture.

Your resume always starts with a header that contains your contact information . You don’t need to include information about your demographic, as that can lead to profiling. You also shouldn’t have much personal information since the rest of your resume will show the hiring manager more about you.

The contact information in the header includes items such as:

• Phone number
• Email address

Some applicants may include their website if it’s a professional portfolio of writing samples, photography, or other information relevant to the job posting.

Career Profile

A career profile, also known as an objective or summary , states your career goal. While it’s not a required section, it’s ideal because it shows the hiring manager what you’re looking for in terms of employment. They can read this brief section and know whether you’re a match.

This section can range from one to three sentences long and gives a broad overview of who you are and what you want to do in the position. However, you don’t want to get too detailed because your specific work experience and education come later.

For example, someone fresh out of school can write: “Recent human resources graduate looking for a full-time position in payroll, employee benefits, and performance tracking.”

Someone with years of job history applying for the same position might write: “Human resources professional with over 12 years of experience seeks a role in hiring and onboarding.”

You can see how both objectives give information about the person while showing the hiring manager their intentions. Keep this format in mind as you brainstorm your summary.

Work Experience

Your work experience is an essential part of an Australian resume. This section is your opportunity to show the hiring manager what you’ve accomplished in the past and how you hope to continue in a new position.

The most common way to organize your work experience is in reverse-chronological order . This approach means your most recent job is at the top of the list since it’s where you currently work or the role you just left. From there, you go back through your job history, ending when you hit ten years or reach your first job, whichever comes first.

List your position since the hiring manager needs this information more than anything else. Then include the company name and the dates you worked there. Below this information, list any achievements you accomplished in the role in the form of bullet points.

Use active language in your resume. Instead of bland words like “did” and “tried,” use action verbs, such as :

• Streamlined

These words express more action about your accomplishments and convey your sense of professionalism and productivity to the hiring manager.

Though you have up to four pages to fill, you don’t need to include irrelevant details in this section. For instance, applicants with years of work experience should only go back ten years. If you have relevant experience from jobs over ten years ago, create an additional “Other Professional Experience” section and list the highlights there.

List your education in reverse chronological order, just like your work history. Start with your most recent degree and work backward.

Most professionals only need to include higher education in this section. Include any degree you earned, listing the institution and dates attended. If you accomplished anything outstanding during your education, like Dean’s List or an academic scholarship, mention it.

People seeking entry-level jobs might also include their high school diploma if they have no other education. For example, if you completed Technical and Further Education (TAFE), list it here. Once you attend college, the hiring manager will know you have a high school education, so you don’t need to mention it.

If you’re applying for work and only have a high school diploma, include noteworthy details, like a distinction in a relevant course or membership in a club.

Your skills include strengths and knowledge you might not mention in your work history or education. These can be hard skills, like with graphic design software or another language. They can also include soft skills, like impeccable communication or time management skills.

If you have different ranges in your skill sets, consider separating them for clarity. You could have a section entitled “Areas of Expertise” separate from “Technical Skills,” showing the hiring manager where you exceed and where you have a working knowledge.

You should include skills that are relevant to the job. In fact, including specific terms from the job listing will help your resume stand out from the crowd. Many employers want to hire someone who

Volunteer Experience

Like skills, the volunteer section is a chance to share additional information about your passions and experience that might impact how well you can perform the job. Even if some volunteer experiences don’t align with the position, showing the hiring manager that you prioritize giving your time to volunteer organizations will make a positive impression.

If you have any gaps in your work history but volunteered during that time, be sure to list the experience in this section. Volunteering is a great way to explain what you were doing when you weren’t officially employed.

Hiring managers used to require applicants to list references on their resumes. You could name three professional contacts to verify the information on your resume. However, most hiring managers don’t need references as soon as they read your resume. They make a decision based on the information alone, then call you in for an interview or take you out of the running.

You should have three professional references in your notes, though. You might need to give the information to the hiring manager after your interview if they choose to move you ahead in the process.

Read the job description carefully. Some companies might mention that they want references with the application, so you could add them to your resume. You could also include this section and specify that references are available upon request, though it’s not necessary.

Below is an example of an Australian resume that gives you the basic format. Of course, since a professional with an extensive work history should have at least three pages of content, you’ll want to expand from this general foundation, but it’s a great starting point.

First and Last Name

Home Address

Phone Number

Email Address

Career Summary

Graphic designer with ten years of experience seeking to move from print multimedia to advertising campaigns. Expert use of Adobe Creative Cloud.

Print Production Manager at Global Graphics, 2013 to present

• Conceptualize visuals based on the company’s rough drafts

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, Art University, 2016

Associate of Art in Graphic Design, Graphic Community College, 2013

• Conversational experience with Spanish

Creating an Australian resume isn’t too different from the basic format, so you shouldn’t have trouble spotlighting your experience and education. Make sure you use Australian English and put your best foot forward to stand out from the crowd. Happy job hunting!

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Importance of a good cv.

Your resume must also get past any  initial screening algorithms , or applicant tracking systems (ATS), which identify suitable candidates based on the use of relevant keywords.

Think of your CV as your own living, breathing personal pitch – a pitch that succinctly answers all the questions a recruiter or hiring manager has about you. The degree to which you present the reader with the information they require to make an informed decision can determine whether you are invited to interview.

This includes why you are applying for this job, with this organisation and in this industry, what value you can bring to the organisation and whether you have what is required to be successful in the role.To leave the reader with no doubt about your suitability, you must present a strong CV that clearly conveys this information.

How often should I update my CV? 

Even if you aren’t actively looking for a new role, it’s important to get into the habit of  regularly updating your CV . If you keep your resume up-to-date, when you do come to the point when you want to find a new position, there’s no risk that you’ll forget key points. Regularly updating your resume can also make you more aware of any skills or experience gaps that you need to fill to take the next step in your career.

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Resume advice.

A good CV is vital. Discover tips and advice on how to write a resume with this video. Follow our tips to update your CV or download the free resume template!

Resumes & Cover letters rh menu

Resume & cover letters.

How to write a CV

How to write a cover letter

CV cliches to avoid

Updating your resume

How to optimise your CV

Make your CV stand out

Content Block - Resume | UB

Cv versus resume – what’s the difference  .

Today, a lot of employers and job candidates use the terms ‘CV’ and ‘resume’ interchangeably. Indeed, you may see just as many references to ‘resume templates’ as you do ‘CV templates’.

Traditionally, a CV referred to a comprehensive (up to six pages) account of your entire professional life, while a resume was a summary (up to two pages) of your education, skills and work experience. However, in more modern times, the need for a lengthy overview of your career history has become redundant, with a hiring company instead expecting a two-page summary.

At the same time, people began to use the two terms reciprocally. Now, whether you call your career overview a ‘CV’ or ‘resume’, it has no bearing on your chance of reaching an interview shortlist. 

How to write a resume | 2nd content block | UB

The purpose of a resume.

Your resume serves to introduce the relevancy of your skills, experience, qualifications and achievements to a recruiter and potential employer. A recruiter or employer may not spend longer than a few minutes reviewing your resume, so it should succinctly convey your most relevant achievements. If the reader thinks you are a suitable candidate for the role, your resume will have achieved its purpose – an offer to attend an interview. 

you must be able to demonstrate your skills, experience, and future potential.

If you can do that well in one page, that’s great. However, the average length of a resume is usually around two pages. 

How to write a resume | 3rd content block | UB

How long should my resume be.

Your resume should be approximately two pages long. If it is substantially longer, eliminate information that isn’t relevant to the role or industry.

For instance, look back at the key skills and attributes required for the job in question and then review your resume – are you using valuable space to describe skills, attributes and responsibilities from roles that don’t match up to the job in question?

If so, remove this content or, at the least, simplify your language. On your resume, you must get to the point, so don’t use ten words to say something you could say in five.  

On the other hand, one page may suffice in certain circumstances. The main thing to keep in mind when you’re writing your resume is that you must be able to demonstrate your skills, experience, and future potential.

How to write a resume | 4th content block | UB

What not to include in a resume.

Use your common sense when writing your resume. If you have been employed for many years and your career has evolved over time, knowing how to write a resume well means you will not include every role you’ve ever held, such as the casual retail position you had in high school or the captaincy of your social sporting team. Rather, use the limited space on your resume strategically by ensuring every line shows how you are relevant to the particular job you’re applying for. 

Similarly, if you have an advanced degree, few people are going to be concerned about the exams you took when you were 16 years old. Instead, only include training that is relevant to the position you are applying for.

Unless otherwise stated, you don’t need to attach copies of certificates, qualifications or references. You should instead bring these to a job interview.

We also advise candidates to avoid listing their hobbies or interests. Focus instead on the experience and skills that make you suitable for the job you’re applying for. The exceptions occur when you have limited relevant experience or if the employer specifically asks applicants to list hobbies. In these cases, keep it brief. Avoid anything that could be contentious, such as political affiliations, and instead show how your personality is suited to that of the organisation. For example, consider listing a hobby that requires expertise relevant to the role, such as organisational or communication skills. 

You also do not need to design a creative resume, unless you work in a creative field. Some candidates attempt to produce a more creative resume to stand out, however it really is the relevancy of your skills and experience that will ensure you make a shortlist, not how you present your resume.

Can AI write the perfect resume?

How to write a resume | 5th content block | ub, step by step guide to writing a great resume.

Follow the below standard resume structure when looking to write your resume. Don’t forget to ensure you use clean and clear formatting. 

1. Contact information

Start with the basics such as your name, phone number, email address (make sure the email address you use sounds professional) and  LinkedIn profile . Use the phone number and email address that you use most often. You don’t want to disappoint an employer by failing to respond to their invitation to an interview in a timely fashion.

2. Professional summary 

In 50 to 150 words, describe your applicable experience and skills. This summary should prove your value and help to differentiate you. Avoid describing what you’d like from your next job and instead focus on what you can offer. This is the place for your  USP , or unique selling proposition. Tailor this section to each position that you’re applying to.

Use keywords from the job description so that an ATS can find a match.

3. Skills summary 

The reader of your resume may not have more than a minute to spend scanning each application, particularly if the volume of applications is very high, so including a skills section can capture their attention by making it immediately clear what you can offer. Compile a brief bulleted list of the systems,  skills and competencies  that are most relevant to the job you are applying for. Use keywords from the job description here too.

For instance, if the ad specifies someone who has ‘effective administrative abilities and excellent interpersonal skills’, these should be addressed here with brief evidence as to where you gained those skills. Make sure to tailor your expertise to the individual position you are applying for, always.

4. Achievements

A future employer will be interested in where you went above and beyond the job that you were paid to do and achieved something great. So, next list your key career achievements, supported by facts, statistics or links. For example, if you over-achieved on your sales targets, you need to say by what percentage and over what period.

Keep in mind, this is a summary to grab interest by demonstrating you can successfully add value to an organisation in the type of job you’re applying for, so proof is essential.

5. Work experience 

Your work history should be the most detailed section of your resume, with positions listed in reverse order, beginning with the most recent. Include employer names, positions and primary responsibilities.

If your job title is unconventional, it is perfectly acceptable to replace it with a recognisable equivalent.

It is important to quantify your accomplishments – the reader wants to see facts not fluff. Focus on the value you added in each role, rather than simply listing what your duties were. This section shouldn’t read like a job description. Rather, it should tell the story of your unique strengths and accomplishments. Think of your biggest achievements for each role and provide concrete, quantifiable evidence of each. One way to help you do this is to use action verbs such as “managed” or “oversaw”. Such verbs force you to focus on what you achieved and your results in each role, which proves the value of your experience.

Avoid overused clichés in you CV  that can waste valuable space. Instead, include examples of your work to demonstrate your strengths. Remember that proof is in your results.

We also advise you not to leave gaps in your work history. If you took a year out, carried out an interim assignment, or travelled for six months, say so. Just make sure you illustrate whatever the experience was in a positive way, focusing on the fact that it gave you some great experience and knowledge.

Stating just the years you started or finished a role can also send off alarm bells. Writing "2019 - 2021" could be interpreted as employment from December 2019 to January 2021 unless you say otherwise. 

6. Education & qualifications 

Keep it concise by listing the academic qualification obtained, year of completion, the institution’s name and a one-sentence summary.

7. References 

The details of references are rarely included on resumes. It’s common for candidates to simply write, “References are available upon request” in this section of your resume. Your recruiter will then reach out for the details of your referees at the appropriate point in the recruitment process. 

Remember though, the referees recruiters and employers value the most are those people you reported to directly who can speak about how you used your skills and experience to add value to their organisation. If you are unsure who to provide as a referee, our  guide to references  may help. 

How to write a resume | 6th content block | UB

Final tips to remember when writing your resume.

By the time the recruiter or hiring manager reaches the end of your resume, they will have more than likely made their decision about whether to add your resume to the interview pile or not. Here are three final tips to help your resume reach the shortlist: Firstly, tailor your resume for each application. To make the interview shortlist, your resume must demonstrate that you possess most or all the criteria required in the job. Tailor your application for each position you apply for by expanding on your experience relevant to the job and cutting back the less relevant parts. You should also show that you are genuinely interested in this job. Failing to tailor your CV by submitting a blanket application will not impress. So, weave into your professional summary the reasons that make you a good fit for this particular position and what specifically resonates with you about the organisation or role. Secondly, make sure you add quantifiable results. As mentioned above, providing evidence to support the claims you make on your CV brings it to life and establishes for the reader the value you could bring. However, not every role allows for the sort of measurement by which you can prove your expertise. If you find yourself unsure how to add quantitative evidence this blog provides some tips. Adding links to your LinkedIn profile and online portfolios of work can also help the reader build a better picture of your competencies.

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Australian Resume Format: Land Your Next Job in Australia

Australia is among the countries paying the highest minimum wage in the world, which means a permanent demand for skilled workers. If you are planning to work, study, or settle in Australia, this is a perfect time.

All resume examples in this guide

Australian Resume Example

Casey James Administrative assistant [email protected] +61 2 1356 5828 https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey

Profile summary

A dedicated administrative assistant with over 5 years of experience in legal firms excited to contribute to Telco Pty Ltd's dynamic culture. As administrative assistant for the CEO, I was responsible for the CEO's schedules and travel plans while also managing the general administration functions at M&A Consultants.

Professional Experience

June 2019 to Present Telco Pty Ltd

• Hired over 50 legal associates in 2021 including advertising, shortlisting, and scheduling interviews
• Worked with attorneys and clients on legal requirements
• Planned and managed the executives' annual travel budget
• Carried out training programs for administrative tasks for the new employees
• Implemented an internal communication platform and managed the transition to reduce the lead time of email communications by 30% ‍

Aug 2017 to May 2019 Milton Associates

• Managed a $50,000 annual budget for the procurement of stationery
• Contributed to an increase of 15% in customer satisfaction by handling client inquiries
• Supported the operations of the finance and marketing departments through administrative duties
• Created, edited, and proofread client proposals
• Managed the client database and updated the CRM weekly
• Carried out social media activities on LinkedIn and Instagram

Bachelor’s degree in HR management, 2012-2015 Australian National University

• Recruitment
• HR strategy
• Employer branding

GPA- 3.8/4 Diploma in Information Technology 2018-2019 Institute of Technology, Melbourne

• Advanced computer literacy

The expertise of Calendar management and scheduling tools Database management MS Office (Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint, Sharepoint) Client call handling Strong written and verbal communication Business intelligence Teamwork and delegation when needed

All major brands and businesses, top universities, great weather are some of the many reasons why Aussie has become The Lucky Country for international students and immigrants.

However, just landing in Australia will not guarantee you a job – especially one that pays well. Most well-paid jobs receive thousands of applications and go through a series of shortlisting and interviewing processes.

Reading this article will save you months of your time applying for jobs and the opportunity cost of living in Australia without a proper job. Also, we discuss:

• Resume examples and how each section should be written
• Job applications for international students
• What to include and what to exclude
• Ideal resume length in Australia

And many more.

Consider having a look, if you would like to create a professional resume with one of our ready-to-fill resume templates tailored to the Australian market.

While the elements of your resume will change depending on the position you apply for, the basic structure of an Australian resume will remain the same. Here is an example of a perfect Australian CV for an administrative assistant.

Australian Resume for International Students

Australia provides a variety of opportunities for international students to study, work, and settle in the country. In other words: the Australian economy needs you.

International students will have access to a variety of full-time and part-time job opportunities based on the allowed hours during their studies.

This sample Australian resume is to apply for a part-time job in a restaurant (but it also works for other similar roles):

Curtain Welsh

+61 2 1256 8723

https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtainw

Professional summary

A highly organized, flexible, and experienced student with a strong focus on customer service and impressive time management skills who is keen to work in the restaurant industry looking for a part-time position at Fleet.

Work History

April 2018 to Nov 2019

Mc Donalds- UK

• Handled over the phone inquiries of the customers– over 20 calls a day
• Responded to web inquiries and communicated orders to the appropriate personnel
• Achieved a customer satisfaction of 25% in 2019 as one of the best Mc Donald restaurants in the UK
• Knowledge of menus scored 98%
• Became the main customer-facing officer in 2019
• Developed a welcoming atmosphere with the staff and management

Cambridge High School, 2014-2017

• Excellent at accounting and math
• Student council president for 2016
• Expertise in POS system entries
• Cash handling
• Microsoft excel
• Social media expert
• Time management
• Interpersonal skills
• High energy

English Native

French Fluent

Chinese Basic

How do Australian Resumes Differ from American ones?

An Australian resume is similar to an American one in terms of style and format. A minor variation could, however, make your resume look odd in a pool of Australian resumes. Therefore you must consider the following points while preparing and sending your resume to Australia.

• American and Australian English have differences related to spelling and vocabulary: you should read further , identify those differences, and incorporate the relevant changes in your writing. Using correct Australian English on your resume will give you an edge during screening.
• In Australia, a resume is often called a ‘CV’: in your email body, you can mention that you have attached the CV to give it a more Australian feel.
• Australian resumes are lengthy compared to the American ones: how long they should be and what information makes up the additional pages will be discussed below.

Consider also how resume format, structure, and other information differ in Canadian resumes compared to Australian and American resumes.

How to make an Australian Resume?

An Australian standard CV layout would be a great place to start making your resume. We have highlighted each section with the information you should include and the best practices.

1. Start with The Resume Header

Your CV should start with your name and contact information. This is generally followed in many regions including Australia.

Name is typically the first name and the last name followed by the current job title (if it is relevant to what you’re applying).

Contact information should consist of your email address, a mobile phone number, and a link to your LinkedIn profile or the portfolio (if relevant).

• Do not include your mailing address unless the job advertisement has specified about it
• Update your LinkedIn profile pic, cover photo, and description before putting the link in your CV
• Don't use official emails; use your personal email instead

2. Write a professional summary or an objective summary

This is considered the sales pitch in your CV. In this, your objective should be to communicate to the hiring manager that you’re a potential candidate for the position.

Writing a resume summary is simple if you know the right technique. The professional summary should consist of 2-3 sentences that describe you. Use the first sentence to describe your experience and how your expertise would help the new employer. In the second sentence, write about how that helped your previous employer and the results you achieved.

Just like this:

The objective summary would be the same as the professional summary: you should write your career objective instead of your previous experience. Objective summaries are used in case you do not have much experience for the position or you’re in a career transition.

3. Continue with Your Work Experience

This is the most important part of any resume whether it is in Australia, the USA, Europe, or any part of the world. This section can make or break your Australian job dream.

While writing your employment history, the format you pick matters. There are mainly three standard resume formats : reverse chronological, functional, combination. Though all three formats are accepted in Australia, the most popular one is the reverse-chronological format.

In reverse chronological resume format, you should list your experience starting with the most recent position. This provides the hiring manager the opportunity to access the most up-to-date experience of the candidates with ease.

Here’s a set of guidelines to follow when writing your experience section:

• State the company name, job title, and the period
• Use bullet points to describe your experience
• Use specific details of projects you were assigned to, achievements, and the tools used
• Use numbers wherever possible to add credibility to your statements
• Use keywords that are specific to the industry, the job role, and are mentioned in the job advertisement

An applicant tracking system is in place in many Australian companies which carries out the initial shortlisting of applications – your resume should be keyword-heavy to get through this step.

4. What to Include in The Education Section?

For most job positions, your education would come in handy even if it is not directly relevant. List down your education section giving priority to your highest academic achievements.

If you have completed any academic program in Australia, that would be an advantage.

In writing this section, use a consistent format. Also write to the point as this should be a small section of the resume.

Put the academic qualifications that are relevant to the job you apply for. For instance, if you are applying for a part-time job in a cafe to cover your expenses while you study, you might not want to put your Masters's degree in the resume. Many employers don't hire overqualified candidates because they think they won't last.

5. What Skills to Put in The CV?

The skills section is common on resumes in many regions, though a generic list of skills does not work anymore – also in Australia.

The skills of a candidate could be either soft skills or hard skills. What most hiring managers expect is a combination of these two types.

• Time Management
• Communication skills
• Business intelligence
• Problem-solving
• Organizational skills
• Negotiation
• Creative thinking

Instead of just putting up a list of soft skills in your skills section, identify 3-5 most important skills required to perform your duties on the job.

How do you find these?

Employers often describe the personal traits they expect from the candidate in the job advertisement.

Expertise in ventilation systems and HVAC

Technical report writing, BOQ preparation, and tendering

Electrical and Electro-mechanical systems

Mechanical system designing with Solid Work and Auto Cad

6. Should I Put Additional Sections?

Of course! Additional sections are a great way to showcase some of your most marketable skills. A separate heading on your resume gives the information more visibility.

In an Australian CV, the following additional sections are recommended:

• Volunteer experience
• Computer skills
• Licenses and Certifications

It is not required to include all these additional sections in your resume. Putting more of these sections would make it difficult to achieve the main objective of additional sections which is more visibility.

What Is a good Resume Length for Australia?

Typical Australian resumes are quite lengthy compared to the USA ones. There’s no hard and fast rule as to how long it should be, but definitely more than one page like in the US.

For professionals, three to four pages is a good CV length. For entry-level jobs and recent graduates, try to make the CV two pages.

You should utilize this space to present the most important information about yourself – being relevant to the position you apply for as much as possible. Most applicants from the USA who spent hours compressing their resumes to fit one-page standard struggle in Australia to decompress it to fit the Australian standards.

The important factor to remember here is that you should not expand your resume in a way that the information is not interesting to read or less relevant.

Whether it is in the US or Australia, it will be a human who will read your resume and make a decision. Write your resume as long as it has to be but as succinct as possible .

What should you not include in an Australian-style resume?

If there is some information, formatting, or features missing in your resume, it won't be rejected, but if you include something the Australian job market considers inappropriate, it will.

Including a photo of you in your resume is considered a Capital sin in Australia . This is due to strict anti-discrimination labor laws and regulations. It is believed that the candidate’s photo could influence the employer’s decision of shortlisting for an interview.

The CVs that come with a photo is typically ignored to prevent possible discrimination lawsuits against the employers and recruiters.

There are however ways to bypass these and get the same benefits of putting a picture without breaking the law. Visit our detailed guide on Resume Pictures to learn about the countries where you should not include a picture and everything else about the topic.

Resume, CV, Curriculum Vitae in the Title

This is an old practice of writing resumes. In many countries including Australia, this practice is no longer accepted.

Recruiters already know the document is your resume when they receive it.

More than 15 years old experience

You should use reverse chronological order to write your experience section. This will allow you to showcase your latest experience first. However, some candidates list down experiences that are more than 15 years which are not relevant to the context.

While you're allowed to write 3-4 pages for your CV in Australia, try not to include irrelevant or too old experiences to fill up the space.

Personal information

Do not include personal information such as age, gender, religion, or marital status. These could lead to the rejection of your CV in Australia on the basis of anti-discrimination policies in recruiting.

Interesting Facts about The Australian Job Market

• The job market keeps growing

Simply “there have never been so many jobs available in Australia at one time”, an Australian labor market research study says.

The post-pandemic Australia is going to be full of well-paid opportunities and the government is opening up borders for international skilled workers who are interested to work, studying, and settling in Australia.

• Salaries are among the highest worldwide

As businesses in Australia are experiencing labor shortages, salaries are increasing further. In general, salaries in Australia are among the best salaries in the world. As of 1 July 2021, the National Minimum Wage is $20.33 per hour or $772.60 per week whereas this figure is adjusted every year.

• The healthcare and the engineering industries lead the market

Jobs in healthcare such as doctors, nurses, healthcare workers, hospitality workers will be in high demand. In addition, construction and engineering sectors will have many opportunities including construction laborers, brick workers, and plumbers.

Another sector falling into the high-demand category is accountants and finance professionals – for both government and private-sector jobs.

If your job search is in one of these categories, you’ll experience a higher level of demand – having a great resume together will help you land the best job.

Tips for Making an Australian-style Resume

These pro tips will make your next Aussie CV stand out from the rest of the pack.

• Read the job description or the advertisement to pick the keywords your employer care about – include them naturally in your professional summary, experience, and skills sections.
• Include a link to your LinkedIn professional profile or portfolio website in the header – check whether the link work in PDF and MS Word formats.
• Choose a resume template that represents your personality and tailor it to match the industry you apply to – check out our ready-to-fill resume templates . If you are creating your template, make sure your formatting such as fonts, font sizes, colors, and margins are consistent throughout.
• In Australia, skill certifications and licenses are highly valued by employers – if you do not have one, consider applying for relevant certification.
• Use a tool like Grammarly and check for general grammar mistakes as well as for Australian English variations in your resume.
• Write your resume tailored to the job instead of sending the same CV for every job.
• Write a cover letter that complements your resume – check out our cover letter templates to get an idea

Key Takeaways When Writing an Australian Resume

• Start your resume with the header – include name and the contact information
• The professional summary should consist of two sentences - one describing your expertise and how it would benefit the employer, and one explaining how it helped the previous employer.
• The experience section should not just contain a list of tasks you performed in your job - it should be results-oriented, with numbers to provide credibility
• Follow a consistent format to showcase your education qualifications – add relevant academic qualifications only.
• Write a combination of soft skills and hard skills - you'll likely find the skills employers are seeking in a potential candidate in the job posting.
• Use additional sections to provide a pleasant surprise to the hiring manager – but ignore the irrelevant information.
• One page resume is not the standard followed in Australia – you can expand your resume into multiple pages

Frequently Asked Questions

Do australians say ‘resume’ or ‘cv’.

Australians use the words ‘CV’ and ‘Resume’ interchangeably – both referring to the same thing. However, again, we do not advise using the word ‘CV’ or ‘Resume’ at the top of the resume as a heading.

When you’re sending an email with your resume attached, you can use the word ‘CV’ in your body text to refer to the attachment.

What do Australian employers look for in a resume?

It would be your experience, professional summary, skills, and education sections consecutively. Some Australian recruiters, however, look for a solid professional summary that summarizes the candidate’s profile.

Most shortlisting is done based on the experience section. This also depends on the type of profession. For high-skill jobs, they would give priority to education.

Do I need a cover letter with my Australian resume?

In Australia, some employers expect cover letters while others would not. Also, some industries and professions require the applicants to send a CV with a cover letter.

In the following situations, a cover letter is useful:

• If the job advertisement states the requirement of a cover letter
• If you do not have much experience related to the job, but you would like to express your enthusiasm to work for the company
• Your CV is a general one which includes all your career history – you can use a cover letter to summarize what is relevant to the particular job position

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24 Resume Summary Examples That Get Interviews

By Biron Clark

Published: November 8, 2023

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

A resume summary statement usually comes right after a job seeker’s contact info and before other resume sections such as skills and work experience. It provides employers with a brief overview of a candidate’s career accomplishments and qualifications before they read further. Because of how early it appears on the document, your resume summary statement (or your CV “profile” in the UK) is one of the first places recruiters and employers look. And without the right information, they’ll doubt that you’re qualified and may move to another resume.

So I got in touch with a select group of professional resume writers, coaches and career experts to get their best resume summary examples you can use and adapt to write a resume summary that stands out and gets interviews.

As a former recruiter myself, I’ll also share my best tips to write your resume summary effectively.

Why the Resume/CV Summary is Important

You may have heard that recruiters only spend 8-10 seconds looking at your resume. The truth is: they spend that long deciding whether to read more. They do glance that quickly at first and may move on if your background doesn’t look like a fit. However, if you grab their attention, they’ll read far more. Recruiters aren’t deciding to interview you in 8-10 seconds, but they are ruling people out in 8-10 seconds. And this is why your resume summary is so crucial. It appears high up on your resume (usually right after your header/contact info) and is one of the first sections employers see. So it’s part of what they’ll see in the first 8-10 seconds.

Your resume summary statement is one of your first (and one of very few) chances to get the employer to stop skimming through their pile of resumes and focus on YOU.

Watch: Resume Summary Examples That Get Interviews

10 resume summary examples:.

These career summary examples will help you at any experience level – whether you’re writing a professional summary after a long executive career, or writing your first resume summary without any experience! After you finish this article you’re NEVER going to have to send out a limp, weak resume summary statement again (and you’ll get far more interviews  because of it).

1. Healthcare Sales Executive Resume Summary Example:

Turnaround & Ground Up Leadership – Concept-to-execution strategies for untapped products, markets + solutions that yield 110% revenue growth – Negotiates partnerships with leading distributors + hospitals—Medline to Centara + Novant Health to Mayo Clinic –  Revitalizes underperforming sales organizations via scalable, sustainable infrastructures emulated as best practice –  C-Level networks of clinical + supply chain leadership acquired during tenures with XXX, XXX and XXX

Why this resume summary is good:

This resumes summary example’s strength lies in the detailed, unique information that has been included. By including revenue stats, names of past employers and partners, the reader right away sees that this person will bring to the role a strong networking ability with key players in his industry, and more importantly can build, grow and revitalize a sales organization, market or product.

By:  Virginia Franco, Founder of Virginia Franco Resumes  and Forbes contributor.

2. 15+ Year Business Owner Resume Summary Statement:

Dynamic and motivated marketing professional with a proven record of generating and building relationships, managing projects from concept to completion, designing educational strategies, and coaching individuals to success. Skilled in building cross-functional teams, demonstrating exceptional communication skills, and making critical decisions during challenges. Adaptable and transformational leader with an ability to work independently, creating effective presentations, and developing opportunities that further establish organizational goals.

Why this is a good summary section:

This is a resume summary statement that was for  a candidate returning to work after having her own business for 15+ years. Because of this, we needed to emphasize her soft skills and what she can bring to this potential position. In addition, we highlighted the skills she has honed as a business owner so that she can utilize these qualifications as a sales professional, account manager , and someone knowledgeable about nutrition, medicine, and the overall sales process.

By: Dr. Heather Rothbauer-Wanish. MBA, Ph.D., CPRW, and Founder of Feather Communications

3. Human Resources Generalist Resume Summary Example:

Human Resources Generalist with progressive experience managing employee benefits & compliance, employee hiring & onboarding, performance management processes, licensure tracking and HR records. Dependable and organized team player with the ability to communicate effectively and efficiently. Skilled at building relationships with employees across all levels of an organization. Proficient with HRIS, applicant tracking and benefits management.

Why this is a good resume summary:

The applicant highlights their experience across a wide range of HR functions from the very first sentence, and continues this pattern throughout the rest of the summary. They then use easily digestible langue to showcase their hard skills (in the first & fourth sentences) and soft skills (in the second & third sentences). They also integrate a variety of keywords to get past automated job application systems , without sounding spammy or without overdoing it.

By: Kyle Elliott, MPA/CHES,  Career Coach and Consultant

4. Social Media Marketing CV Profile Example (UK):

Social media expert with successes in the creation and management of social media strategies and campaigns for global retail organisations. Extensive experience in the commercial utilisation of multiple social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube; I build successful social strategies that increase brand awareness, promote customer engagement and ultimately drive web traffic and conversions.

Why this summary is good:

This summary is well-written, short, sharp, and gives recruiters a high-level explanation of the candidate’s core offerings in a persuasive and punchy style. A quick scan of this profile tells you the exact type of social media platforms the candidate is an expert in, as well as the campaigns they have experience running and types of organizations they have worked for. Most importantly, the summary is rounded off by showing the results that this person achieves for their employers, such as increased web traffic and conversions.

Editor’s note: This CV profile summary was written for the UK market… this is a great one to use/copy, but make sure you put it through a spell-checker if you’re applying for jobs in the US (utilisation vs. utilization, etc.)

By: Andrew Fennell, Director at StandOut CV , contributor for The Guardian and Business Insider

5. Marketing Manager Professional Summary Example:

Marketing Manager with over eight years of experience. Proven success in running email marketing campaigns and implementing marketing strategies that have pulled in a 20% increase in qualified leads. Proficient in content, social media and inbound marketing strategies. Skilled, creative and innovative.

This resume summary stands out because it gets straight to the point. By immediately introducing the number of years of experience the candidate has, the HR manager doesn’t need to spend time adding up years. The candidate also jumps right into his or her strongest skill, provides a statistic , then gives additional skills.

By: Sarah Landrum, career expert and contributor at Entrepreneur.com and Forbes

6. Warehouse Supervisor Resume Summary Example:

Warehouse Supervisor with Management, Customer Service, & Forklift Experience –  Dependable manager with 15+ years of experience in warehouse management and employee supervision. –  Skilled at managing inventory control, shipping & receiving, customer relations and safety & compliance. –  Certified Power Equipment Trainer, Forklift Operator and Reach Operator skilled at coaching other staff. –  Promoted to positions of increased responsibility given strong people and project management skills.

The applicant was applying for a warehouse supervisor position that required them to have demonstrated management, customer service and forklift experience. As such, the applicant showcased their experience in these areas with a few keywords in the title, followed by additional details in the accompanying bullet points. Their final bullet shows a record of promotions, while reinforcing the applicant’s customer service and project management skills.

7. IT Project Manager Resume Summary Example:

Experienced Project Manager with vast IT experience. Skills include computer networking, analytical thinking and creative problem solving. Able to apply customer service concepts to IT to improve user experience for clients, employees and administration.

Because this candidate is switching career paths, it’s important he or she take skills used for previous positions and apply those skills to the new job listing. This is a great example because the candidate makes it clear that his or her experience is not in the new field, but that they are still able to bring relevant experience to the table. When writing your resume summary, keep these tips in mind: Use writing that is straight to the point, clear and concise, you’ll have a higher chance of getting noticed by the hiring manager.

8. Career-Changer Resume Summary Example:

Earn trust, uncover key business drivers and find common ground as chief negotiator and identifier of revenue opportunities in sales, leadership and account management roles spanning e-Commerce, air travel and high-tech retail. Navigate cultural challenges while jumping time zones, lead international airline crews and manage corporate accounts to deliver an exceptional customer experience. A self-taught techie sought after as a go-to for complex billing systems and SaaS platforms alike—bridging the divide between technology and plain-speak. – Tenacious Quest for Success + Learning . Earned MBA and BS in just 3 years while working full-time – gaining hands-on experience in research- and data-driven product roadmap development, pricing and positioning. – Results-Driven Leadership. Whether leading Baby Boomers, Gen X or Millennials—figures out what makes teams tick, trains and transforms individuals into top-performers. – Challenger of Conventional Wisdom. Always ask the WHY. Improve the user experience through smart, strategic thinking that anticipates outcomes. Present cases that influence, and lead change that drives efficiency and profitability.

This client was eager for a career change and had moved from role to role and industry to industry. After completing her Master’s degree, she was eager to tie her skills together to land a role – which she did – as a Senior Technology Account Strategist for a global travel company. Although a bit longer than a traditional summary, its strength lies in the details. Without ever getting to the experience section, the reader gets a clear idea of the scope of responsibility, and hard and soft skills the candidate brings to the table.

By: Virginia Franco, Founder of Virginia Franco Resumes  and Forbes contributor.

9. Project Management Executive Professional Summary Example:

15+ years of initiating and delivering sustained results and effective change for Fortune 500 firms across a wide range of industries including enterprise software, digital marketing, advertising technology, e-commerce and government. Major experience lies in strategizing and leading cross-functional teams to bring about fundamental change and improvement in strategy, process, and profitability – both as a leader and expert consultant.

Why this resume summary is good:

“Project Manager” is one of those job titles that’s REALLY broad. You can find project managers earning $50K, and others earning $250K. The client I wrote this for was at the Director level, and had worked for some of the biggest and best tech companies in her city. So this resume profile section shows her level and experience, and the wide array of areas she has responsibility for in her current work. You can borrow or use some of the phrasing here to show that you’ve been responsible for many important areas in your past work.

By: Biron Clark, Founder of  CareerSidekick.com.

10. Startup And Finance Management Consultant Career Summary Example:

Experienced strategist, entrepreneur and startup enthusiast with a passion for building businesses and challenging the status quo. 8+ year track record of defining new business strategies, launching new ventures, and delivering operational impact, both as a co-founder and management consultant. 

Why this resume summary example is good:

This summary was for a highly-talented management consultant looking to break out of finance, and into trendier tech companies like Uber . His track record and educational background were great, so the goal of this summary section was to stand out and show he’s more than just the typical consultant with a finance background. So we emphasized his passion for startups, and his ability to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. That’s something that companies like Uber and other “disruptive” tech companies look for.

14 Resume Summary Examples for Various Industries

Compassionate and effective 5th-grade teacher with experience overseeing the classroom and preparing lessons. Extensive experience encouraging students through positive reinforcement and motivational techniques. Collaborate well with school administration and other members of the teaching team. Ensure all students meet learning requirements, including literacy, social, and arithmetic skills.

2. Teacher’s Assistant

Goal-oriented teacher’s assistant with ten years of experience working with elementary school children. Aid teachers with lesson planning, classroom settings, and group instruction. Model positive behavior and maintain order in the classroom. Willingness to take on additional responsibilities to meet learning objectives.

Tech Industry

3. computer programmer.

Innovative computer programmer with a proven track record of writing high-quality code and supporting team needs with subject matter expertise. Adept in multiple programming languages, including Python, JavaScript, and C++. Ability to troubleshoot complex programming issues with inventive solutions. 

4. Cybersecurity Analyst

Dedicated cybersecurity analyst with ten years of experience in online security research, execution, planning, and maintenance. Proven track record of identifying business risks and proactively resolving them. Experience designing and instituting layered network security for large-scale organizations. Train users and other staff members on IT safety procedures and preventive techniques.

Skilled healthcare professional with ten years of experience in patient care, diagnosis, and providing appropriate treatments and medical services. Manage medical staff and resolve complex medical cases with maximum efficiency. Communicate the patient’s condition and treatment plan in easily understood terminology. Remain current with the latest advancements in medicine and research to ensure patients receive proper care.

6. Registered Nurse

Seasoned registered nurse offering comprehensive patient care in emergency room settings. Experience handling diverse patient populations and caring for various conditions. Proven leadership managing nursing teams and other staff. Focus on enhancing patient care and satisfaction through empathetic communication and excellent customer service. 

7. Digital Marketing Manager

Forward-thinking digital marketing manager experienced in all facets of digital marketing, including social media management, PPC advertising, SEO, and email marketing. Proven experience creating comprehensive marketing plans that improve lead prospecting and enhance brand awareness. Up to date with the newest tools available for digital marketing campaigns.

8. Marketing Analyst

Industrious marketing analyst well-versed in analyzing marketing campaign analytics and making recommendations to improve performance. Collaborate with account managers and use KPI metrics to explain the results of marketing initiatives. Meticulous with a strong work ethic and robust communication skills.

Food and Service Industry

Experienced wait staff member capable of managing orders, processing payments, and upselling menu items. Ensure restaurant guests feel welcome with attentive service catered to their needs. Remain current on updates to the menu and assist guests with selecting orders to meet their dietary requirements. Maintain a positive attitude and focus during busy restaurant periods.

10. Hotel Receptionist

Friendly hotel receptionist with extensive experience handling guest check-ins, check-out, and payments. Facilitate a positive guest experience with polished customer service skills and a readiness to address common inquiries and complaints. Collaborate well with other hotel team members, including executive administration and on-site restaurant staff.

Business/Office Jobs

11. financial analyst.

Highly motivated financial analyst with a proven track record of recommending appropriate financial plans based on financial monitoring, data collection, and business strategizing. Experienced in qualitative and quantitative analysis, forecasting, and financial modeling. Excellent communication skills for building and fostering long-term business relationships across the organization.

12. Tax Accountant

Experienced tax accountant with ten years of experience preparing federal and state tax returns for corporations and partnerships. Monitor changes in laws to ensure the organization properly complies with reporting requirements. Assist with tax audits, ensuring the team receives proper supporting evidence for tax positions. Analyze and resolve complex tax issues. Look for available tax savings opportunities for corporations with an aggregate savings of $500K last year. Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.

Sales and Customer Service

13. sales representative.

Enthusiastic sales representative with expertise in identifying prospects and converting qualified leads to paying customers. Provide quality customer service and contribute to team sales success. Offer exceptional communication skills and seek to understand client needs before making the appropriate product recommendations. Continually meet and exceed sales goals. Leverage extensive knowledge of available products to provide appropriate client solutions and enhance customer loyalty and retention.

14. Customer Service Associate

Knowledgeable customer service professional with extensive experience in the insurance industry. Known as a team player with a friendly demeanor and proven ability to develop positive rapport with clients. Maintain ongoing customer satisfaction that contributes to overall company success. Highly articulate, with a results-oriented approach that addresses client inquiries and issues while maintaining strong partnerships. Collaborate well with the customer service team while also engaging independent decision-making skills.

Now you have 24 professional resume summary statements and some explanations of why they’re effective. Next, I’ll share tips for how to write your own in case you’re still unsure how to begin based on these examples above.

How to Write a Resume Summary: Steps and Hints

We’ve looked at 10 great resume summary examples above. As you begin writing a resume summary for yourself, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Read the employer’s job description. Your career summary shouldn’t be a long list of everything you’ve done; it should be a refined list of skills and experiences that demonstrate you’re a fit for their job.
• Mention your current job title if relevant. One common way to begin your resume summary is to state your current job title.
• Explain how you can help employers achieve their goals or solve their problems.
• Consider using bold text to emphasize one or two key phrases.
• Include any relevant metrics and data like dollar amounts, years of experience, size of teams led, etc. This helps your resume stand out.
• Focus on making the employer want to read more. The goal of your resume summary isn’t to show everything you can do, but to grab their attention and show enough that they continue reading.

Creating a Customized Resume Summary

While general summaries are appropriate when applying for jobs requiring similar skills and experience, a customized resume summary can enhance your chances of moving on to the next step in the hiring process. 

That’s because most companies use automated tracking systems (ATS) to review submitted resumes for content directly related to the job posting. If you use keywords and natural language phrases in your summary that interlink to the job description, you’ll have a much higher chance of passing the ATS review.

Let’s look at an example of a resume summary that is customized for the specific job description below:

“Highly motivated social media specialist with strong project management skills. Creative marketer skilled in crafting innovative social media campaigns that resonate with a target audience. Regularly develop compelling copy and social media content to enhance lead generation and brand awareness. Detail-oriented with extensive project management skills that ensure proper prioritization of tasks and projects. Work with various social media management and analytics tools to examine results and make adjustments as necessary.”

This summary directly addresses the key points in the job description but rewrites them so the customization is natural and flows well. It’s personalized for the open role and uses similar terms with a few strategically placed keywords, such as “social media content” and “project management.”  

How Long Should a Resume Summary Be?

As you read the resume summaries above, you probably noticed there are some short single-paragraph resume summary examples and much longer career summaries that are two to three paragraphs plus bullet points. So how long should YOUR professional summary be? If you have relevant work experience, keep your summary to one or two paragraphs. The piece you really want the hiring manager to read is your most recent work experience (and you should make sure you tailored that info to fit the job description). The resume summary is just a “bridge” to get the hiring manager into your experience.

If I were writing my own career summary right now, I’d likely use one single paragraph packed with skills, accomplishments, and exactly why I’m ready to step into the job I’ve applied for and be successful!

Even for a manager resume summary, I recommend a very short length. However, if you’re changing careers, or you’re looking for jobs without any work experience , the summary section needs to stand on its own, and should be longer. That’s why some examples above are a bit longer.

Formatting Your Resume/CV Career Summary

You may have noticed a variety of different formats in the career summary examples above. There isn’t one “right” way to format this section on your resume or CV. However, I recommend either using one or two brief paragraphs, or combining a short sentence or paragraph with bullets. Avoid writing three or four long paragraphs with no special formatting like bullet points. That’s simply too much text for your summary section and will cause recruiters and hiring managers to skip over it in some cases.

Should You Include a Resume Objective?

You do not need to include an objective on your resume, and doing so can make your resume appear outdated. Use a resume summary instead of an objective. Follow the resume summary examples above and focus on discussing your skills, qualifications, and achievements, rather than stating your objective. Employers know that your objective is to obtain the position you’ve applied for, and the resume objective has no place on a modern resume/CV in today’s job market.

Examples of Bad Resume Summaries

Now that we’ve seen a few exemplary resume summaries, let’s look at some that you should avoid at all cost.

1. Typos and Grammatical Errors

“Experienced cashier who knows how to run the register cash. Responsible with the money and can talk with the customer. Knows when to stoc up the invenory and checks it all the time. Can count change and run credit card tranactions. Get the customer happy by good service. I am always cheerful and organized.”

Why this resume summary is bad:

If you read the summary carefully, you’ll notice several spelling errors. The words “stock,” “inventory,” and “transactions” are all spelled wrong. Grammatical errors make the summary choppy and difficult to follow (“Get the customer happy by good service”).  A summary like this probably won’t fly with a company looking for a detail-oriented cashier responsible for managing in-person sales.

2. Lacks Relevant Keywords

“Talented worker with experience managing a team of staff. Creative and responsible with knowledge of organizational processes. Can keep up with the busiest of environments. Stays focused when at work, ensuring prompt task completion. Dependable and willing to collaborate with a team to get things done.”  

In this example, the chef doesn’t use keywords relevant to cooking, restaurants, or kitchens. The summary is very generic and can apply to nearly any job. A manager who receives the application isn’t likely to understand what value the candidate can bring to the restaurant.  To fix the summary, the applicant must rewrite it to include relevant keywords and phrases. 

3. No Numbers to Quantify Achievements

“An experienced and hardworking manager ready to align procedures for maximum revenue and profits. Proven track record of streamlining and strengthening processes, resulting in higher sales and better customer satisfaction. Collaborate well with sales team members, ensuring they have the resources and knowledge to support customer purchases and inquiries. Develop strong rapport with clients and maintain ongoing relationships.”

This isn’t a terrible summary for a sales manager, but it has room for improvement. For one, the first two sentences essentially duplicate each other, mentioning an aptitude for improving processes with the objective of higher sales. The other issue is a lack of quantifying achievements. 

The applicant mentions they have a proven record of increasing sales, but they could strengthen the summary by quantifying their results. For example, they might say, “Proven track record of streamlining and strengthening processes, resulting in a 25% increase in sales over the past year.” The quantifier provides additional credibility. 

4. Not Targeting the Specific Job

“Looking for work in a role that requires great customer service, project management, and communication skills. Able to collaborate with people from diverse and varying backgrounds. Highly organized and reliable worker with a strong work ethic. Responsible and reliable worker you can count on.”

While the candidate lists various skills they have, including customer service and project management, there’s no indication of prior roles held or what position they’re applying for. The summary could apply to numerous positions in a variety of industries. To improve the resume summary, the applicant must specify the job they’re applying for and indicate their prior experience in a similar role, if they have any.

After You Start Getting Interviews, Make Sure to Take Advantage…

If you follow the advice above, you’ll have a great professional resume summary to make your qualifications stand out to employers. But landing the interview is only half the battle… So make sure you go into every interview ready to convince employers that they should hire you, too! If you write a great resume summary example that gets employers excited to interview you, they’re going to ask you questions like, “tell me about yourself” early in the interview to learn more about your background. So make sure you’re prepared with an answer.

I also recommend you review the top 20 interview questions and answers here.

Your resume caught their interest, so naturally, they’re going to follow up with a variety of questions to learn more about your professional background.

The bottom line is: A strong professional resume summary, followed up by other well-written resume sections will get you the interview, but your interview performance is what determines whether you get the job offer!

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

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I would recommend to customise the skills section of your resume, and ensure that it matches the job posting. The higher the number of phrases within the resume matching the job requirements the more are the chances that the recruiter will pick you for the job.

I just wanted to say, “thank you!”. This was very helpful. Instead of jumping from one website to the next there’s so much useful, relevant information right here.

Hi, I have been having trouble creating a resume as My old one is so long, I’ve worked for a government agency for the past 14 years and held multiple positions doing many different duties for each and now I have to relocate to another area where they do not have an agency like mine in my new area within a 3 hour drive, how can I squeeze all my experience and duties on one page and where do I even start, I’m so nervous, it’s been so long since I’ve attempted the job hunt. So I’m wondering, I do not want to cut anything out that may hurt my chances and I can’t afford to have my resume rewritten by a professional. Can you guide me as to where you think would be a good place to start, I’ve been staring at this laptop for weeks trying to decide on a resume template, there are so many. I thank you for your time and any input will help.

Hi, I am a new graduate and do not have any experience in my field which is Nursing. I want to apply for the jobs but I have no idea about what to mention in my resume.

Hi, this article should help with the resume summary, at least: https://careersidekick.com/summary-for-resume-no-experience/

Other than that, you need to put your academic experience. And internships/part-time jobs if you’ve had any.

Dear Biron,, Thanks for sharing the 10 examples of professional summaries in your article, and especially the reasons why they were considered to be good. However, as a HR professional, I would most likely skip over most of them and would not read much past the first or second sentence. The summaries were mostly too wordy and boring, and did not demonstrate ‘oomph’ at first cursory reading. Simply indicating certain skills or behaviors does not give an idea of the level of expertise, and could simply be wishful thinking on the part of the resume writer.

Just goes to show that there are many ways to see what makes a good summary.

I am a chemical engineer and project management professional with 15+years experience. My experience is between process engineering and project management . How can I marry the two in my profile summary?

It’s not about showing everything you’ve done. It’s about showing employers evidence you’ll succeed in their job. You can show a bit of both but focus heavily on what’s most relevant for the jobs you’re applying for right now. 80/20.

This was absolutely helpful and amazing! Thank you very much!

Hello, I am an active job seeker. I hold a law degree from a foreign country and currently in college for an associate degree. My question is, how do I blend both my foreign job experience with that of the United States in my resume. Thank you.

I’d put your work history in chronological order, starting with the most recent up top. That’s what I’d recommend for 95% of people actually. Then it doesn’t matter where you held each job.

And then in your Education section, I’d include your foreign degree and the current degree you’re pursuing in the US, too (for the US degree, you can say “in progress” or “graduating May 2019” for example).

I am 40 years old & B.A degree holder I have experience in many fields.I would like to join any one fields

I am a fresh graduate, who has five years teaching experience and some months customer service representative experience. Pls kindly assist me to put the resume summary together

I’m an active duty service member and finding in a little difficult creating a good transitional summary from 20 year profession in tactical communications to a drug and alcohol counselor. Do you have any recommendations how I should approach this? Any assistance would be helpful. Thanks

Great piece

How to write the CAREER ABSTRACT in resume for ware super visor retail business?

Just wanted to say thank you.Your advise and information was clear and easy to understand , sometimes there is nothing pertaining to what im looking fot in particular, buy you have sermed to cover everything I n a short quick easy to understand method.It will help tremendously.

Thanks! Glad to hear it helped :)

Very informational

What if you have work experience, but the job your going for(teachingeducation) has nothing to do with warehouse work? How should I build my resume?

In the summary, describe yourself and then say, “…looking to transition into ___” (the type of work you want to be doing now).

This is a bit like a resume “Objective”. I normally don’t recommend an Objective section (and I recommend a Summary section instead), however the one time an Objective does make sense is when you’re trying to change industries or make a big change in the type of role you have.

So that’s why my advice here might seem like I’m telling you to combine an Objective with your resume Summary.

Then “tailor” your previous work to be as relevant as possible. Even if you worked in a different industry you can still show things like leadership, accountability, progress/improvement, hard work, achieving goals, strong teamwork skills, etc. You can do all of that in your resume bullets and work history.

Don’t u have Resume Summary of legal secretary/legal assistant?

No, sorry about that. There are hundreds of different professions/job titles, and we aren’t able to include an example for every scenario out there. These resume summary examples are designed to give you a general idea of how to write yours.

The summaries listed are excellent example and have helped me develop a stand out summary for a new position.

Hello, I been trying to land the job of my dreams. I need help with my resume if i want the recruiters in airlines to notice me. I’ve applied before but haven’t had complete success to making it to a face-to Face Interview. It is a career change – yet i feel i am a great candidate bc i have had many customer service and I even attended an academy for that specific position. Can you please tell me what I am doing wrong on my resume ?

what if i never had a job experience?

Great question. If you don’t have any work experience, take one of the formats/examples above and put your accomplishments and qualifications from your academic studies.

Your headline could say: “Motivated Bio-Sciences Graduate With Expertise in ____”.

And then you might talk about accomplishments in school, group projects you worked on or led, etc.

Basically, when you have no work experience, your school/studies BECOMES your recent work. You should talk about that like it’s a job, because that’s the experience you do have.

really amazing article and too useful , thanks

Hi Mr. Clark, I have been out of the work force for about 18+years and I have been a small business owner for the same number of years. However, I want to go back to the work force. But my problem is that, I don’t know how to prepare my resume or resume summary statement. I had a degree in Communication,Arts and Sciences and a postgraduate degree in Public Administration. I’m a bit confused as to how to incorporate all these experiences into my resume. Please can you help?

Hi Dorothy, I can recommend a professional resume writer if you want. But they’re typically not cheap, so it’s something you’d have to be willing to invest in. If not, there’s a lot of free info online about how to “tailor” your resume for specific jobs. I can’t help one-on-one unfortunately, but I’d recommend thinking about which type of jobs you want, and think of what experience you have that is most relevant. that’s what to put on your resume. Your resume isn’t only about you, it’s about them – what do they want/need? (if you want to get a ton of interviews, that’s how to do it :) ).

Can I have a professional resume writer?

I use a similar format when writing my opening statement for my coverletter. How do you recommend differentiating the two? Or is it ok to use largely the same language?

I think it’s okay to use something similar. I might be more brief in the cover letter… it needs to be about them just as much as it’s about you. Whereas the resume is all about you, at least in the summary section. (The later sections should still be tailored to THEIR needs..)

Struggling to write a Summary Statement for a Secretary/Administrative Assistant position. I have 15 years government experience but have been away from the government since 9/1993 and have spent 15 years as a Substitute Teacher after taking off for 10 years to raise my children.

Hiya! I am a mother of three attempting to return to the workforce. I have been a stay at mom for about 13 years, so I have a (large) gap in my employment history; which doesn’t look great. I have a college education and have obtained a few certifications whilst not employed, plus many volunteer hours. I know that I should probably use a functional resume format. Would love some advice on what I should include in my summary statement.

Hi Juniper,

I rarely like functional resumes, but it might be worth trying. I’d “split-test” it (a marketing term). Create two resume styles, send out 50% one way, 50% the other way, and track results for a week.

I’d treat the resume summary statement just like any other resume. Highlight your skills and past wins/accomplishments.

how do i explain long term gaps in employment? leave them out?

Hi Paulette,

Don’t mention them on a resume summary. But do mention the gaps on a cover letter or lower down on the resume. Here’s an article on how to explain gaps in employment:

https://careersidekick.com/explaining-gaps-in-employment/

I am student in civil engineering field. Have 1.5 yrs of work ex. How should i structure my resume. Thanks.

Hello My name is Shataka and I’m a current job seeker trying to land my dream job as a Counselor. I have Master degree in Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. My experience lies in many different fields. I’m currently a Substance Abuse Counselor, with a teaching background and over 5 years of social service experience. I guess my question is how would I sum up all my experience to help me find a job as a Counselor.

Comments are closed.

700+ HR-Approved Australian Resume Examples: Job Winning Resume Samples

Explore our vast collection of 700+ ATS-optimized Australian resume examples, meticulously designed to impress employers, pass through Applicant Tracking Systems, and adhere to Australian resume format standards. Whether you're an experienced professional, a recent graduate, or navigating a career change, our diverse range of formats will guide you to craft a standout resume that opens doors to your dream job. Bid farewell to missed opportunities and welcome a future filled with job interviews. Your next career achievement is just a click away.

• Administrative
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• Fitness & nutrition
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• Social services

Accounting Resume examples

An accountant’s primary duties include analyzing financial data and budget forecasts, creating balance sheets, profit and loss and taxation reports, and assisting organizations in finance management, tax strategies and effective use of resources. Accountants also work in specialized areas such as tax, cost, investment or management accounting.

• Cost Accountant
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Administrative Resume samples

Review some of these samples of a Resume for administrative work for Resume ideas to feature your organizational and collaboration skills.

• Administrative Assistant
• Office Assistant
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Billing and collections Resume examples

In addition to our featured example Resume for billings and collections, we offer more examples of a Resume for a job to help you shine in this industry. .

• Accounts Payable Clerk
• Debt Collection Manager
• Accounts Payable Manager
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• Payroll Analyst
• Accounts Payable Receivable Manager
• Payroll Manager
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• Collections Team Lead
• Accounts Payable Supervisor
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Business operations Resume samples

Examples of Cv s for jobs in your field can help you write a great Cv . These professional Resume examples for leadership jobs show how to display your interpersonal skills.

• Business Development Associate
• Business Management
• Enterprise Management Trainee
• General Manager
• Iso Management Representative
• Liaison Officer
• Operations Manager
• Pmo Analyst
• Risk Analyst
• Salon Manager

Child care Resume examples

Use these samples of Cv s as guides for displaying your ability to keep the household organized and your interpersonal skills.

• After School Teacher
• Daycare Teacher Assistant
• After School Program Director
• Daycare Worker
• Playground Supervisor
• Child Care Center Administrator
• Day Care Center Administrator

Computer software Resume samples

As detailed in the examples of good Cv s for computer software jobs below, list programs required for the position and any additional certifications or training you have in software.

• Cloud Computing Engineer
• Java Developer
• Software Engineering Manager
• Ecommerce Qa Tester
• Sql Developer
• Remote Software Engineer

Construction Resume examples

Let our construction work Resume examples help you stress special skills like specialties, such as plumbing or electrical systems.

• Flooring Installer
• Certified Crane Operator
• General Laborer
• Chief Estimator
• Construction Manager
• Construction Chief Executive Officer
• Project Manager
• Construction Laborer
• Construction Safety Officer
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• Construction Site Supervisor

Culinary Resume samples

Find a Resume example for a job in the culinary field from these sample Cv s and grab some ideas on showing your expertise with specific cuisines and ability to collaborate with others.

• Bakery Assistant
• Food Service Specialist
• Personal Chef
• Restaurant Assistant Manager
• Restaurant Chain Manager
• Restaurant General Manager
• Restaurant Manager
• Restaurant Shift Leader
• Restaurant Shift Manager
• Restaurant Shift Supervisor
• Junior Sous Chef

Customer service Resume examples

Use an example of a Resume to apply to a job in customer service, emphasizing intangible qualities such as communication, teamwork and flexibility.

• Customer Service Advisor
• Banking Representative
• Call Center Manager
• Call Center Representative
• Call Center Team Leader
• Camp Counselor
• Client Service Specialist
• Customer Experience Manager
• Customer Relationship Officer
• Customer Service Assistant Manager
• Customer Service Representative
• Customer Success Manager
• Customer Service Supervisor
• Director Of Member Services

Data & systems administration Resume samples

Use these great Resume examples for guidance on how to feature your key soft skills such as collaboration and problem-solving.

• Backup Administrator
• Control Systems Engineer
• Cyber Security Specialist
• Data Analytics Manager
• Network Admin
• Entry Level Network Engineer
• Salesforce Administrator
• Salesforce Developer
• Solutions Architect
• Telecommunication Project Manager

Fitness and nutrition Resume examples

Follow our Resume samples to see how to best display your fitness training experience and any knowledge or training you’ve had in diet and nutrition programs.

• Dietary Aide
• Exercise Physiologist
• Fitness And Personal Trainer
• Gym Assistant
• Nutritionist
• Personal Trainer
• Yoga Instructor

Food service Resume samples

Note how these professional Resume examples feature skills such as a strong work ethic, the ability to work well with others, multitasking and flexibility.

• Bar Supervisor
• Cafeteria Worker
• Catering Server
• Cocktail Server
• Crew Member
• Fast Food Server
• Food And Beverage Manager
• Food And Beverage Server
• Restaurant Server

Healthcare Support Resume Examples

These professional healthcare support examples for a Resume cover major health support fields. Use one of these sample Cv s as a guide to writing a great Cv .

• Assisted Living Coordinator
• Assisted Living Executive Director
• Companion Caregiver
• Direct Support Professional
• Healthcare System Administrator
• Healthcare Operations Manager
• Healthcare Program Manager
• Home Health Aide
• Intensive Care Nurse
• Medical Assistant
• Occupational Therapist
• Patient Coordinator
• Personal Care Assistant
• Personal Support Worker
• Phlebotomist

Information technology Resume samples

Take a cue from some of the best Resume examples from My Perfect Resume and show off your problem-solving abilities. Let these examples of a good Resume be your guide.

• Agile Project Manager
• Assistant Project Manager
• Contracts Manager
• Devops Engineer
• Global Project Manager
• Help Desk Support
• Project Management Director
• Technical Project Manager
• Technical Support Engineer

Medical Resume examples

Highlight specialized medical training and certifications using these medical job Resume examples as a guide. Include experience in hospitals and private practice.

• Anesthesia Technician
• Clinical Director
• Dialysis Technician
• Ekg Technician
• Hospital Volunteer
• Intensive Care Physician
• Medical Coding Specialist
• Medical Records Specialist
• Certified Lactation Consultant
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist
• Optometrist
• Pediatrician
• Physician Assistant
• Registered Mri Technologist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Ultrasound Technician

Nursing Resume samples

We have the perfect Resume examples to help you display your interpersonal and communication skills, time management, attention to detail and empathy. Choose a nursing job Resume example below to get started!

• Acute Care Nurse
• Advanced Practice Rn
• Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
• Labor And Delivery Nurse
• Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Assistant
• Oncology Nurse
• Pediatric Nurse
• Registered Nurse
• Public School Nurse
• Trauma Nurse

Production Resume examples

A professional experience Resume example from the following list of Resume examples for jobs in production can show how to display licenses for operating specialized equipment.

• Apparel Production Manager
• Assembly Line Operator
• Chemical Plant Operator
• Forklift Operator
• Machine Operator
• Picker And Packer
• Pipeline Inspector
• Pipeline Welder
• Plant Manager
• Production Manager
• Supply Chain Manager
• Telecommunications Technician
• Logistics Assistant Manager

Retail Resume samples

Use the example Cv s below as guides to showcase your customer service skills and experience managing products and services on your retail employee Cv .

• Retail Assistant Manager
• Sales Associate
• Bookstore Clerk
• Clothing Sales Associate
• Convenience Store Clerk
• District Manager
• Fine Watches Sales Specialist
• Retail Management Professional
• Retail Manager
• Retail Parts Pro
• Store Manager
• Walgreens Service Clerk

Sales Resume Examples

Like the Resume samples below, it’s important to provide details on experiences where you’ve hit sales targets. You’re sure to find a good Resume sample among the professional experience Resume examples below to help you do so.

• Sales Assistant Manager
• Channel Sales Manager
• Direct Sales Representative
• Franchise Owner
• Independent Sales Representative
• Inside Sales Representative
• Sales Account Executive
• Outside Sales Representative
• Sales Representative
• Experienced Telemarketer

Social Services Resume samples

Show you can relate well with others and have a strong problem-solving approach,like the professionals in the social services job Resume examples below.

• Case Manager
• Case Worker
• Child Protection Social Worker
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Community Service Coordinator
• Domestic Violence Counselor
• Human Service Worker
• Humanitarian Aid Worker
• Juvenile Probation Officer
• Social Worker
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• Medical Social Worker

Teaching Resume examples

The following professional Resume examples for teaching job Cv s focus on important intangible skills such as communication, enthusiasm and patience.

• Preschool Teacher
• Adjunct Professor
• Assistant Teacher
• Early Childhood Teacher
• Elementary Teacher
• Esl Teacher
• High School Teacher
• Homeschool Teacher
• Language Professor
• Middle School Teacher
• Nurse Educator
• Piano Teacher
• Summer Teacher

700+ HR-Approved Australian Resume Examples to Elevate Your Career

Discover the pathway to career excellence with our extensive collection of 700+ meticulously crafted Australian resume examples. Designed to captivate employers and seamlessly navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), our samples adhere to Australian resume format standards. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a recent graduate, or embarking on a career transition, our diverse range of formats ensures you can create a compelling resume that stands out. Say goodbye to missed opportunities and embrace a future filled with job interviews. Your next career milestone is just a click away.

Most companies get hundreds or even thousands of applications monthly.

Hiring managers don’t have the time to read each resume in detail, so they usually end up scanning it for five to six seconds.

So, unless your resume manages to grab the hiring manager’s attention in those few seconds, they’ll just toss your application aside and move on to the next one.

That’s why, you want to make sure that the hiring manager can instantly tell that you’re the right candidate for the job before they even read your resume in depth. 

This is where writing an attention-grabbing resume summary comes in!

In this guide, we’re going to cover: 

• What Is a Resume Summary?
• Tips for Writing an Effective Resume Summary 
• 77+ Convincing Resume Summary Examples

Let’s dive in.

This guide is part of our larger resume series. If you want to start from the basics, take a look at our comprehensive guide on how to make a resume .

What Is a Resume Summary? 

A resume summary is a section that summarizes your resume’s contents. It’s placed in your resume’s header, close to your 

contact information , and it’s the first thing hiring managers see when they look at your resume.

When done right, your resume summary serves as a snapshot of your entire career. It shows that you’re a qualified candidate in less than five seconds, and it gets the hiring manager interested in reading the rest of your resume.

So, what makes a resume summary effective?

A good resume summary is two to four sentences long and includes:

• Your years of experience and job title
• Some of your biggest achievements to date
• A couple of your most essential skills that are relevant for the role

Let’s look at an example:

• Detail-oriented Technical Writer with 7+ years of experience in writing end-user documentation, specializing in user help guides. Excellent writing, analytical thinking, research, and time management skills. Rewrote over 80% of user help guides for 30+ products at Company X, resulting in a 42% decrease in product-related customer support calls.

New to resume-making? Give our resume summary video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Use a Resume Summary?

Hiring managers skim through resumes before deciding to read them, so candidates who grab their attention from the start stand a better chance of grabbing their attention. This is why you should always include a brief paragraph in your resume header that summarizes your strengths as a candidate.

Depending on your experience level, you can choose between a resume summary or a resume objective .

Resume objectives focus on professional goals, skills, and motivation for applying for the job, so they’re perfect for students, recent graduates , and other entry-level workers.

A resume summary, on the other hand, is perfect for seasoned professionals, as it focuses more on your past work experience and how it relates to the job you’re applying for. So, if you already have some work experience, we recommend sticking to a resume summary.

If you’re embarking on a career change , on the other hand, you can choose between a resume summary or a resume objective, depending on how your previous skills and work experience relate to the job.

When you’re making your resume, write your resume summary last. Creating a resume summary is much easier once you’ve already finished up your work experience section! 

5 General Resume Summary Examples

There are different aspects of your professional background that you can focus on when writing your resume summary.

Let’s look at some examples and what they do right:

• A hard-working bartender with over five years of experience providing professional service at various bars across Brooklyn. I have received the Hospitality Skill Certification for Bartenders and I know how to make over 200 alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. Seeking the Head Bartender position at Bar X, where my skills and beverage knowledge can be leveraged to offer customers the highest quality of service.

Above all, this resume summary shows how experienced the candidate is. Their main selling point is their vast bartending knowledge, followed by an impressive bartending qualification and customer service skills .

• Communicative financial analyst, specializing in informative and persuasive financial presentations, cost accounting, and team management. Master’s Degree in Finance and two related certifications from the Corporate Finance Institute. Extensive experience with a variety of software programs, including SQL, Equitrak, and Lawson.

What sticks out the most in this resume summary is the candidate’s educational background and certifications. It matches the field they’re applying for, and their knowledge also extends to the most important professional software.

• Human Resources Manager with 7+ years of experience seeks to improve overall efficiency at XYZ Office. Career highlights include handling all employee relations in a 75-employee finance firm, reducing recruitment lead time by 35%, and increasing employee retention by 17%.

In addition to the candidate’s long professional experience, the most impressive part of this resume summary is their achievements . The candidate also made sure to quantify their professional accomplishments, which gives you credibility and shows you know what you're talking about.

• Detail-oriented receptionist with 4+ years of experience in customer service. Efficient in performing the administrative and front-desk tasks of large-scale offices. Fluent in Norwegian, English, Spanish, and Swedish. Proficient in MS Office Suite and ZenDesk.

This resume summary shows off the candidate’s key skills, including language proficiency , extensive customer service experience, and computer skills .

• Hard-working and passionate Secondary Social Studies teacher with 10+ years of experience in creating positive environments in which teenagers can learn and grow. Incorporates interdisciplinary knowledge into the classroom to engage students of all learning orientations. 

This candidate mentions they have more than a decade of work experience , but the main takeaway is what they can do on the job. The hiring manager who reads this resume summary can immediately see what this applicant can bring to the team.

How to Write a Resume Summary

Now, let’s get down to business – how can you write a resume summary that’s guaranteed to catch the hiring manager’s attention?

Let’s start with the basics. Here’s what your resume summary should include:

• Experience. If you have a lot of relevant professional experience, you should summarize it. This may include your job titles and years of experience in the field. (e.g., “Facebook marketer with 5+ years of experience..." )
• Skills. Mention your areas of expertise, specializations, certifications , and/or skills. (e.g., “Experienced in managing Facebook ad accounts and SEO copywriting..." )
• Achievements. Add one or two impressive achievements to show what you can do. (e.g., “Managed over $100,000 in marketing budget over several accounts and reduced annual company costs by 16%.” )

The next step is to take your resume summary from good to great by following these expert tips:

#1. Tailor Your Resume Summary

You could be an excellent candidate with tons of work experience, but if your resume summary isn’t tailored to the job ad, the hiring manager probably won’t be impressed.

If the hiring manager doesn’t see your value in the first seven seconds of reading your resume , you probably won’t get them to give it a second glance.

This is where tailoring your resume summary comes in. Just reference the job description to make sure your work experience, skills, and achievements all match what the employer is looking for in a candidate.

Let’s go over it in detail.

Imagine you’re applying for this specific job:

The ad tells you exactly what the company is looking for in a candidate.

So here’s what a resume summary tailored to this ad might look like:

• Professional marketer manager with 5+ years of experience in digital marketing. Social media marketing experience, including Facebook, Google, and LinkedIn advertising. Experience in managing an account with a monthly budget of $30,000. B.A. in marketing management. Fluent in German. 

By carefully tailoring your resume summary to the ad and mentioning what the company is looking for, the hiring manager will be hooked! They’ll immediately think, “This is the right person for the job!” and read the rest of your resume in detail.

Tailoring your resume summary to the job description can also help you get past Applicant Tracking Systems that companies use to filter through resumes. This is software that scans applications and disqualifies candidates who don’t mention specific skills or add enough keywords from the job description throughout their resume, so the more you tailor your resume to the job, the better your chances!

#2. Quantify Your Achievements

Your resume summary is supposed to be brief, which means you’re not supposed to list all your achievements. So, make sure to mention the ones that are most relevant and impactful for the role you’re applying for to pique the hiring manager’s attention.

The best way to back up your accomplishments is by providing concrete data.

Quantifiable achievements are instantly more credible and more likely to leave a good impression than vague statements. 

Let’s compare:

• Helped customers sign up on our platform.
• Onboarded 100+ customers to our SaaS platform with a retention rate of over 75%.

See the difference? In fact, the first example sounds more like a responsibility than an achievement.

Here’s what this applicant's entire resume summary would look like:

• Customer service representative with 5+ years of experience in telephone customer service, tech support, and customer care. Familiar with Intercom, Drift, and several other customer service software solutions. Handled up to 100 calls daily with a retention rate of over 75%. 

In some fields, there aren’t many achievements that you can mention. For example, saying that you served 50 people a day isn’t an achievement if you're a server. Don’t fret! In such cases, it’s OK to stick with your key responsibilities simply.

#3. Use Power Words and Action Verbs

Saying you’re a “team player” who was “responsible for” this or “managed” that is boring.

To stand out from every other applicant using the same words, you need to use the right action verbs and power words .

These words can make your skills and achievements pop, and the hiring manager will appreciate that you’re going the extra mile to describe your experience.

Let’s compare how the same sentence with and without power words plays out:

• Spearheaded Company X’s content marketing operations.
• Responsible for content marketing at Company X.

While both of these sentences say the same thing, the first one makes you seem more competent and implies initiative and leadership skills. The second just comes off as passive.

To drive the point home, here’s what a resume summary looks like packed with action words:

#4. Follow Our Formula

When you get down to writing your resume summary, you might still not be sure where to start or what to add.

Don’t worry!

We have a tried and tested formula that you can follow to write the perfect resume summary.

77+ Convincing Resume Summary Examples (For Different Fields)

Need inspiration to write your resume summary? No sweat!

We’ve curated a list of 77+ resume summary examples for different professions to help inspire you.

Sales and Customer Service Resume Summary Examples

#1. sales associate resume summary.

“Enthusiastic and knowledgeable sales associate specialized in upselling furniture and dealing with customer objections. Proven 2-year track record of success at Company X, having exceeded department KPIs by 40-50% for 6 months in a row.”

Read the full sales associate resume example here.

#2. Account Manager Resume Summary

“Client-oriented account manager with a successful track record in the oil industry. Managed accounts worth over $500K while working with clients such as BP and Lukoil.”

#3. Software Support Specialist Resume Summary

“Software support specialist with 5+ years of experience in providing support and assistance to clients, managing user accounts, and recruiting and hiring new IT support interns. Built customer relationships and trust with 20+ B2B clients. Skilled at simplifying complex problems, making it easy for non-technical specialists to solve IT issues.”

#4. Customer Service Representative Resume Summary

“Dedicated and trustworthy customer service specialist with four years of experience in online software troubleshooting, tech support, and customer care. Experienced in using Intercom and Drift. Received an average 87% customer satisfaction rating to date, 15% higher than the company average.”

Read the full customer service resume example here.

#5. Cashier Resume Summary

“Reliable and detail-oriented cashier. Skilled at mathematics, thinking on my feet, and solving any potential customer issues that arise without help from management. Experience in training and onboarding 3+ new cashiers at Company X.”

Read the full cashier resume example here.

#6. Retail Manager Resume Summary

“Retail Manager with 5 years of experience managing mid-sized retail stores. Increased store revenue by 15% through effective team management and customer engagement strategies. Proficient in inventory control, merchandising, and staff training. Looking to leverage retail management expertise in a larger, high-volume store setting.”

Read the full retail manager resume example here.

#7. Barista Resume Summary

“Passionate Barista with 2 years of experience in specialty coffee shops. Known for crafting signature beverages and maintaining high standards of customer service. Consistently received positive feedback for friendly demeanor and quick, accurate order fulfillment.”

Read the full barista resume example here.

#8. Server Resume Summary

"Dedicated Server with 3 years of experience in fast-paced dining environments. Skilled in order accuracy, multitasking, and providing exceptional customer service. Recognized for ability to maintain composure and efficiency during peak hours."

Read the full server resume example here.

#9. Waiter Resume Summary

“Positive and friendly waiter with 3 years of experience working at a fast-paced Italian restaurant. People skills with a proven ability to upsell alcohol, desserts, and appetizers to customers. Memorized restaurant’s wine stock and accompanying meals to the T.”

Read the full waiter resume example here.

#10. Front Desk Agent Resume Summary

“Front Desk Agent with 4 years of experience in the hospitality industry, excelling in customer service at busy city-center hotels. Skilled in handling reservations, guest inquiries, and providing travel recommendations. Committed to enhancing guest experiences and maintaining a high standard of service.”

#11. Housekeeper Resume Summary

“Hard-working house-keeper with 5+ years of experience. Past experiences include working as a housekeeper in hotels as well as private residences. Proven time-management skills and deep familiarity with all cleaning materials and tools.”

#12. Line Cook Resume Summary

“Line Cook with 3 years of experience in high-volume kitchens. Efficient in meal preparation and plating, with a focus on maintaining quality and speed. Trained in various cuisines and knowledgeable about food safety standards.”

#13. Restaurant Manager Resume Summary

“Professional restaurant manager with a strong interest in providing the highest standards of customer service and ensuring customer satisfaction. Skilled at reducing staff turnover, conflict resolution, marketing, and upselling techniques. Increased restaurant revenue by 20% through advertising lunch menu and word-of-mouth strategies.”

#14. Bar Manager Resume Summary

“Experienced Bar Manager with 7 years overseeing busy urban bars. Successfully increased annual sales by 20% through innovative marketing and menu redesign. Expert in inventory management, staff training, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. Seeking to bring leadership and efficient operational skills to a high-end establishment.”

Read the full bar manager resume example here.

Administrative and HR Resume Summary Examples

#15. receptionist resume summary.

"Organized Receptionist with 3 years of experience in corporate and medical office settings. Efficient in managing multiple phone lines, scheduling appointments, and providing administrative support. Known for a welcoming demeanor and effectively handling client inquiries."

Read the full receptionist resume example here.

#16. Recruiter Resume Summary

"Communicative professional with 5+ years of experience in recruitment. Worked with every part of the recruitment process, including sourcing, vetting, and onboarding of candidates. Passionate about IT recruitment, having worked as a tech recruiter at Company X. MBA from University X."

Read the full recruiter resume example here.

#17. Human Resources Specialist Resume Summary

“Human Resources Specialist with 6 years of experience focusing on employee retention and satisfaction. Implemented employee engagement programs that increased retention rates by 25%. Skilled in conflict resolution, performance management, and creating positive work environments. Dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and employee development.”

Read the full human resources resume example here.

#18. Office Manager Resume Summary

“Office manager with 5+ years of experience in controlling inventory, ordering and tracking new supplies, developing procedures and training material for staff. Strong communication skills, organized, with a track record of success.”

Read the full office manager resume example here.

#19. Secretary Resume Summary

“Professional Secretary with 4 years of experience in fast-paced legal and corporate environments. Proficient in document preparation, managing executive schedules, and coordinating meetings. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring efficient office operations.”

#20. Executive Assistant Resume Summary

“Accomplished executive assistant with experience in providing support to a high-level CEO and other executives for 4 years. Helped with everything from customer support to data entry and preparing well-researched documents. Skilled at time management, proficient in MS Office and Adobe Photoshop.”

Read the full executive assistant resume example here.

#21. Administrative Assistant Resume Summary

“Experienced administrative assistant seeking to leverage advanced administrative skills for improved efficiency at Media XYZ. 5+ years of industry experience includes decreasing data entry mistakes by 23%, decreasing negative feedback by 11%, and giving insights into creating paperless office environments.”

Read the full administrative assistant resume example here.

#22. Data Entry Resume Summary

“Data entry clerk with 3+ years of experience in verifying complex data, maintaining databases, and producing monthly reports using advanced Excel functions. Known for quick typing skills, eye for detail, and the ability to keep clients and employers happy.”

Read the full data entry resume example here.

Finance Resume Summary Examples

#23. accountant resume summary.

“Licensed Certified Public Accountant with 10+ years of experience in budget analysis, financial audits, and forensic accounting. Created financial reports within a five-person finance team and managed a $500,000 budget. Over the two years working there, helped cut annual company expenses by 15%.”

Read the full accountant resume example here.

#24. Financial Analyst Resume Summary

“Dedicated financial analyst with a track record of successful investments. 5+ years of experience in investment banking, with a focus on the oil industry. Responsible for analyzing potential investments, as well as conducting industry, market, and company-specific research. MBA in Finance.”

Read the full financial analyst resume example here.

#25. Bank Teller Resume Summary

“Bank teller with 2+ years of experience in client-facing roles at Bank X, where I handled customer transactions, cross-selling bank products, and keeping customers happy by providing a professional and efficient service. Followed strict and safe deposit box operations guidelines and processed 100+ customer transactions daily.”

Read the full bank teller resume example here.

#26. Banker Resume Summary

"Experienced Banker with 5 years of expertise in personal and small business banking. Managed a portfolio of high-value accounts, increasing client satisfaction and financial performance. Skilled in financial advising, loan processing, and risk management. Committed to helping clients achieve their financial goals with tailored solutions."

Read the full banker resume example here.

Business Resume Summary Examples

#27. business analyst resume summary.

“Solutions-driven business analyst with over 5 years of experience in consulting businesses and analyzing their operations. Previous experience in working with Consulting Company X and Consulting Company Y. Strong understanding of digital transformation. Improved a client company’s processes by taking them online, which improved manufacturing output by 3%.”

Read the full business analyst resume example here.

#28. Business Development Manager Resume Summary

"Dynamic Business Development Manager with 7 years of experience in identifying and pursuing new market opportunities. Led initiatives that resulted in a 30% increase in annual revenue. Strong background in strategic planning, client relations, and market analysis. Proven ability to drive business growth and forge strong partnerships.”

Read the full business development manager resume example here.

#29. Project Manager Resume Summary

“Project manager with a proven track record of working with agile and waterfall project management methodologies. Managed 5+ teams of software projects over the past 3 years. Basic understanding of several programming languages, including Java, React, and NodeJS.”

Read the full project manager resume example here.

Marketing and Advertising Resume Summary Examples

#30. marketing executive resume summary.

"Accomplished Marketing Executive with 10 years of experience in developing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies in the technology sector. Led campaigns that increased brand awareness by 40% and consistently exceeded sales targets by 15-20%. Expertise in digital marketing, market research, and team leadership. Committed to driving market growth and enhancing brand positioning for leading tech companies."

Read the full marketing executive resume example here.

#31. Marketing Manager Resume Summary

“Marketing manager with 4+ years of experience in a corporate environment. Good eye for design, with experience in creating marketing materials with Canva. Intermediate copywriting skills, having worked on the company website, flyers, and several other content pieces.”

Read the full marketing manager resume example here.

#32. Social Media Marketing Manager Resume Summary

“Creative social media manager with 2+ years of experience and a passion for boosting brand awareness and customer engagement. Skilled in copywriting and basic graphic design tools. Personally started and grew a Facebook page for my consultancy brand from 0-1,000+ in just a month. Looking to help Company X establish an online presence and increase their social presence.”

#33. Content Marketer Resume Summary

“Accomplished professional with 3+ years of experience in marketing, content writing, and outreach. Experience in writing for high-authority publications like Forbes, Business Insider, and more. Looking to help Company X increase their online presence and generate more leads through content.”

#34. SEO Specialist Resume Summary

“Results and data-driven SEO specialist with experience in keyword research, developing and marketing evergreen content, and increasing overall website rankings. Freelancing for over 2 years. Grew Company X from 50,000 daily visits to 100,000 within a year by creating long-form content and conducting backlink outreach.”

Read the full digital marketing resume here.

#35. PPC Specialist Resume Summary

“Data-driven SEM professional with 5+ years of experience with Google Analytics, AdWords, Google Display Ads, and Facebook/LinkedIn Ads. Managed a monthly advertising budget of $50,000 over 4 clients.”

IT and Software Development Resume Summary Examples

#36. it specialist resume summary.

“Competent IT specialist with 5+ years of experience working with Windows Server 2016. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert. Advanced knowledge in SQL, C++, Bash, and Linux.”

Read the full IT resume example here.

#37. Software Engineer Resume Summary

“Results-oriented software engineer with a focus on the design and implementation of relational database systems. 8+ years of experience in developing cutting-edge engineering solutions with a wide range of eCommerce and technology features. Skilled in agile processes, backend and frontend development, and creating eCommerce websites that integrate with Paypal, Stripe, and other payment APIs.”

Read the full software engineer resume example here.

#38. Cyber Security Resume Summary

"Cyber Security Specialist with 6 years of experience in threat analysis and network defense. Implemented security protocols reducing data breaches by 40% at TechSecure Inc. Certified in CISSP and experienced in cybersecurity technologies including firewalls and endpoint security. Eager to bring advanced threat detection and mitigation strategies to XYZ Cyber Solutions."

#39. Web Developer Resume Summary

"Dynamic Web Developer with 3 years of experience in designing and developing user-friendly websites. Proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React. Developed an e-commerce site that increased client sales by 30%. Looking to contribute innovative and efficient web solutions at CreativeWeb Studios."

Read the full web developer resume example here.

#40. Computer Scientist Resume Summary

“Creative and people-oriented computer scientist with up to 2 years of working with tech startups. Advanced knowledge of software design principles and agile development principles. Led and managed a team of five in developing new software from concept to delivery.”

Read the full computer scientist resume example here.

#41. Data Scientist Resume Summary

“Business-minded data scientist with a demonstrated ability to deliver valuable insights via data analytics. 10+ years of professional experience in working with CEOs and VPs of Fortune 500 companies. Deep understanding of statistical models, algorithms, and multivariate analysis.”

Read the full data scientist resume example here.

#42. Data Analyst Resume Summary

“Detail-oriented data analyst passionate about helping businesses grow. Former small business owner. Conducted research using three different focus groups and increased sales by 10% over 4 months. MBA recipient with strong technical skills in data mining and data, survey creation, and quantitative methods.”

Read the full data analyst resume example here.

#43. DevOps Engineer Resume Summary

"DevOps Engineer with 8 years of experience in automating and optimizing mission-critical deployments. Led a team that reduced deployment times by 50% through CI/CD pipeline enhancements. Skilled in cloud technologies and infrastructure as code with certifications in AWS and Terraform. Committed to improving operational efficiency at XYZ Tech."

Read the full DevOps engineer resume example here.

#44. AI Engineer Resume Summary

"AI Engineer with 4 years of experience specializing in machine learning and natural language processing. Developed AI models that improved customer interaction accuracy by 35% for a leading tech firm. M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence. Passionate about deploying cutting-edge AI solutions at AI Innovators Inc."

Read the full AI engineer resume example here.

#45. Java Developer 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."

Read the full Java developer resume example here.

Health and Medicine Resume Summary Examples

#46. nurse resume summary.

“Registered nurse specialized in psychiatric nursing. Developed strong psychiatric evaluation and treatment planning skills after 5 years of working at Hospital X. Experienced in administrative work, management, and training new employees.”

Read the full nurse resume example here.

#47. Medical Assistant Resume Summary

“Certified Medical Assistant with 10 years of experience in working in a fast-paced environment, handling confidential paperwork, administering medication, and providing quality patient care. Proven ability to create positive rapport with patients, family, and staff. Completed and submitted clinical documentation following hospital regulations and experience in supporting diagnostic and technical treatment procedures.”

Read the full medical assistant resume example here.

#48. Dental Assistant Resume Summary

“Licensed dental practitioner with 4+ years in helping dentists prepare, perform, and document procedures. Strong hand-eye coordination, with skills in 4-handed dentistry and working with patients.”

#49. Dentist Resume Summary

"Experienced Dentist with 10 years of practice in general and cosmetic dentistry. Committed to providing exceptional patient care, demonstrated through a consistent record of patient satisfaction and successful dental procedures. Proficient in the latest dental technologies and techniques, including digital radiography and CAD/CAM dentistry, with a strong focus on preventive care and oral health education."

Read the full dentist resume example here.

#50. Pharmacist Resume Summary

"Detail-oriented Pharmacist with over 7 years of experience in retail and hospital settings. Proven ability in medication therapy management and pharmaceutical care, with a track record of efficiently managing prescription processing and patient counseling. Skilled in utilizing digital prescription systems and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of drug interactions and healthcare regulations."

Read the full pharmacist resume example here.

Creative Resume Summary Examples

#51. graphic designer resume summary.

"Senior graphic designer with 6+ years of experience in website design and branding, across a wide range of industries. Extensive experience in multimedia, marketing, and print design. Highly skilled in communications, digital storytelling, and Adobe Creative Suite."

Read the full graphic designer resume example here.

#52. UI/UX Designer Resume Summary

“Proactive UX designer with 5 years of experience in delivering enjoyable web and mobile products for the FinTech industry. Designed UI, UX, and marketing materials for 6 apps and 3 games at Company X, 2 of which were featured in Apple’s App Store. Skilled with Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite.”

#53. Product Designer Resume Summary

“Creative designer with 7 years experience in product design, packaging, and graphic design. Expertise in new product design, brand identity, and market research. Created and launched a new line of award-winning tableware that generated over $1 million in sales the first year.”

#54. Creative Director Resume Summary

“Experienced creative director, with 10+ years of experience in the advertising industry. Over the past 3 years, managed 2 separate creative teams, creating video ads for company clients. Worked with some high-profile clients, including IBM and Phillips.”

#55. Game Designer Resume Summary

"Innovative Game Designer with 5 years of experience in creating engaging and immersive gaming experiences. Led a team that developed 'AdventureQuest,' a game that won 'Best Mobile Game' at the Indie Game Awards and achieved over 500,000 downloads within the first year. Skilled in gameplay mechanics and story development, with proficiency in Unity and Unreal Engine. Dedicated to crafting games that resonate with players, combining artistic vision with user-friendly design."

Read the full game designer resume example here.

#56. Animator Resume Summary

"Creative Animator with over 8 years of experience in 2D and 3D animation, specializing in character and environmental animation. Proficient in using Maya, Adobe After Effects, and Blender, with a strong background in motion graphics and visual effects. Known for delivering high-quality animations under tight deadlines, contributing to successful animated features and advertising campaigns."

Read the full animator resume example here.

#57. Illustrator Resume Summary

"Award-winning Illustrator with a decade of professional experience, recognized for innovative and impactful visual storytelling. Recipient of the 'Illustrator of the Year' award at the Global Art Forum, with a portfolio that includes book illustrations, advertising campaigns, and digital content."

Read the full illustrator resume example here.

#58. Photographer Resume Summary

"Professional Photographer with a Master's in Fine Arts and 6 years of experience in commercial and portrait photography. Known for a unique aesthetic that combines technical skill with artistic creativity, resulting in visually stunning compositions. Holds a certification in digital photography from the Professional Photographers of America, with a portfolio that has been featured in several national photography exhibitions."

Read the full photographer resume example here.

#59. Actor Resume Summary

"Versatile Actor with 3 years of experience in commercials and television, known for a dynamic range that adapts seamlessly to varied roles. Strong background in stage combat and period drama. Proficient in multiple dialects and expressive character portrayal, enhancing authenticity in every performance."

Read the full actor resume example here.

#60. Writer Resume Summary

"Professional Writer and Blogger with 2 years of experience, specializing in lifestyle and travel content. Successfully increased blog readership by 40% over two years and contributed featured articles in 'Traveler's Digest' and 'Modern Living' magazines."

Read the full writer resume here.

#61. Editor Resume Summary

"Dedicated Editor with 10 years of experience in translated literature, focusing on Mandarin and Cantonese works. Expertise in preserving the original tone and cultural nuances, ensuring translations resonate with English-speaking audiences. Collaborated with acclaimed authors from China and Hong Kong, contributing to over 30 translated novels. Committed to bridging the gap between Eastern and Western literary worlds through meticulous and sensitive editing."

Read the full editor resume example here.

Education Resume Summary Examples

#62. professor resume summary.

"Distinguished Professor with 15 years of experience in higher education, specializing in Modern Literature. Published over 20 peer-reviewed articles and 3 books, receiving the Excellence in Research Award twice. Secured $500,000 in research grants and led multiple international academic collaborations. Committed to fostering critical thinking and research skills in students, enhancing the academic prestige of the department."

Read the full academic CV example here.

#63. Teacher Resume Summary

“Dedicated Teacher with 4 years of experience in elementary education, specializing in innovative teaching strategies. Implemented a project-based learning approach that increased student engagement by 30%. Eager to bring creative teaching methodologies and a passion for educational excellence to School ABC, contributing to student development and academic success.” 

Read the full teacher resume example here.

#64. Tutor Resume Summary

“Experienced Tutor with 2 years of expertise in mathematics and science, adept at simplifying complex concepts. Consistently helped students improve their grades by an average of one full letter grade.”

#65. College Student Resume Summary

"Proactive College Student majoring in Business Administration with strong leadership skills, demonstrated through roles in student government and the debate team. Organized multiple campus events, enhancing student engagement and participation. Seeking to apply organizational and communication skills in a professional internship, contributing to company projects while gaining hands-on experience."

Read the full college freshman resume example here.

#66. High School Student Resume Summary

"High School Student with 3+ months of experience as a cashier. Excellent time-management and communication skills. Actively involved in extracurricular activities, demonstrating strong teamwork and responsibility. Looking to join Retail Store X as a part-time sales representative."

Read the full high school resume example here.

Other Resume Summary Examples

#67. architect resume summary.

"Professional and creative architect with 10 years experience in developing construction drawings, 3D models, and doing design rendering. Served as a project architect at company X and won an honorable mention as a staff architect at XYZ Construction Awards 2023."

Read the full architect resume example here.

#68. Electrical Engineer Resume Resume Summary

"Electrical Engineer with 4 years of experience in power systems and automation. Holds a Master's in Electrical Engineering and a certification in PLC programming. Proven expertise in designing and implementing efficient electrical solutions for industrial applications."

Read the full electrical engineer resume example here.

#69. Interior Designer Resume Summary

"Creative Interior Designer with 3 years of experience, recognized for increasing client satisfaction by 30% through innovative design solutions. Portfolio includes residential and commercial projects, with a focus on modern and sustainable designs. Skilled in AutoCAD and 3D visualization, transforming client visions into reality."

Read the full interior designer resume example here.

#70. Construction Project Manager Resume Summary

"Construction Project Manager with a decade of experience in overseeing large-scale commercial and residential projects. Proven track record of completing projects on time and within budget, reducing costs by 20% on average. Skilled in team leadership and effective communication. Committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality."

Read the full construction project manager resume example here.

#71. Operations Manager Resume Summary

"Dynamic Operations Manager with 2 years of experience in streamlining processes for increased efficiency. Expertise in supply chain management and cost reduction strategies."

Read the full operations manager resume example here.

#72. Event Planner Resume Summary

"Seasoned Event Planner with 5 years of experience, successfully organized over 100 corporate and private events. Increased event attendance by 40% through innovative marketing strategies. Excited to bring expertise in event coordination and vendor relations to XYZ Celebrations."

Read the full event planner resume example here.

#73. Warehouse Worker Resume Summary

“Seasonal warehouse worker with experience working for Supermarket X and Supermarket Y. Diligent, organized, and very hard-working. Previous experience working in the service industry for 2+ years.”

Read the full warehouse worker resume example here.

#74. Welder Resume Summary

"Skilled Welder with 7 years of experience in MIG, TIG, and arc welding. Proficient in reading blueprints and maintaining high standards of safety and quality."

Read the full welder resume example here.

#75. Real Estate Agent Resume Summary

"Experienced Real Estate Agent with 6 years in residential and commercial property sales. Achieved a 25% year-on-year increase in sales volume. Known for excellent negotiation skills and a deep understanding of market trends."

Read the full real estate agent resume example here.

#76. Flight Attendant Resume Summary

"Dedicated Flight Attendant with 1 year of experience, fluent in Spanish and French. Excelled in providing top-notch customer service, contributing to a 15% increase in passenger satisfaction. Fluent in English, French, German, and Arabic. Eager to bring customer care expertise to Airline XYZ."

Read the full flight attendant resume example here.

#77. Paralegal Resume Summary

"Paralegal with 3 years of experience in corporate law, proficient in legal research and document drafting. Certified in legal software applications, enhancing case management efficiency."

Read the full paralegal resume example here.

#78. Social Worker Resume Summary

"Compassionate Social Worker with 6 years of experience in child and family services. Successfully managed caseloads of up to 50 people, improving service delivery by 20%. Skilled in crisis intervention and developing tailored support plans for diverse case needs."

Read the full social worker resume example here.

Resume Summary FAQs

Do you still have some questions about resume summaries? Check the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

#1. How Do You Write a Resume Summary with No Experience?

If you have no work experience whatsoever, you should write a resume objective instead of a resume summary.

A resume objective is also a brief paragraph that goes at the top of your resume. However, instead of focusing on your professional experience and accomplishments, it highlights your career goals, aspirations, skills, and academic achievements.

If you have any informal experience that’s relevant to the job, such as volunteer work or relevant coursework , you can still write a resume summary to highlight why you’re a great candidate.

#2. How Do I Start My Resume Summary?

The best way to start your resume summary is by writing down your job title and exact years of experience. You can also add an adjective that describes your strongest character traits or work ethic.

To make this easy, try this formula:

[Adjective/character trait] [job title] [your experience]. Looking to help/support/apply/assist/etc [employer’s name] [describe how you can be of help to the company]. [Your top achievements/qualifications]. 

#3. How Long Should My Resume Summary Be?

The resume summary should be brief and attention-grabbing. Ideally, it should be between two and four sentences long.

Its goal is to provide a snapshot of your career that can captivate the hiring manager into reading more.

If you want to give the employer more details and elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job in your own words, you can also write a cover letter to complement your resume.

#4. Should a Resume Summary Be Written in the First or Third Person?

As a general rule, your resume should avoid using first-person pronouns . This includes your resume summary.

That said, the third person sounds too impersonal – as if somebody else wrote the resume summary instead of you. Luckily, there’s a neat trick you can use to make your text flow better—just get rid of the pronouns altogether.

This way, instead of writing, “She is a marketer with 5+ years of experience in XYZ,” you can write, “Marketer with 5+ years of experience in XYZ,” and get your point across just as effectively.

#5. Should You Always Use the Same Resume Summary?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t use the same resume summary when applying to different jobs.

Your resume summary should be tailored to the specific job ads and reflect how you can meet the company’s unique needs. If your current resume summary can be applied to different job applications, it isn’t as effective and tailored as it should be.

When writing your resume, go through the job ad for the specific position and try to include the skills or qualifications the employer is looking for. Make sure to also mention any relevant experience and your top achievements, and you’ll have the perfect resume summary.

#6. What Are Other Names for a Resume Summary?

Across the internet, you might find different names for what we’re calling a resume summary in our article. Some of these names include:

• Resume profile
• Career summary
• Personal statement
• Qualifications summary
• Summary of experiences
• Summary of qualification

If you’re heading for a career in academia, a “personal statement” means something different. Check out our detailed guide to writing an academic personal statement to learn more!

Key Takeaways

And that’s our full guide to writing a resume summary!

Hopefully, now you feel more confident about adding this finishing touch to your resume.

Before we go, let’s recap everything we covered about writing resume summaries:

• A resume summary is a two to four-sentence long paragraph that tells the hiring manager your key selling points. These can include your years of experience, exact job title, relevant skills, qualifications, and impressive achievements.
• If you don’t have any work experience, you can opt for a resume objective instead. This way, you can focus more on your professional goals and motivation for applying.
• The goal of a resume summary is to catch the hiring manager’s attention. Do this by tailoring your resume summary to the job ad and addressing what the company needs in a candidate.
• Back up your achievements with data whenever possible. Mentioning the exact numbers, dates, and results makes you seem more credible.
• Use power words and action verbs instead of generic descriptions to make your resume summary pop.

Need more career advice? Check out our career blog for more useful articles!

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Resume template

Resume formats and content may vary from industry to industry, so do your research to understand the expectations of employers in your field. 

The information below is an overview of the most common elements of an Australian resume. It is not intended as a one-size-fits-all template. The resume can also be structured in the way that best presents your skills and experience. For example, if you have extensive, relevant industry experience, you might find it preferable to place ‘Employment History’ before ‘Education’.

Resume sections

Personal details.

• Use your name as the heading in large, bold lettering. There is no need to include the words ‘resume’ or ‘curriculum vitae’ anywhere in the heading.
• Include contact phone number/s and your preferred email address. You can also add a residential address, however, this is optional. Employers will be using these details to contact you, so ensure your email address and voicemail greeting reflect your professionalism. 
• International students or permanent residents may benefit from indicating their visa status and work rights.
• There is no need to add extra information such as a date of birth, photo or nationality.

Career objective/Profile/Summary [Optional]

• This section describes the type and level of position you are seeking and the industry or area in which you would like to be employed. A well-targeted career objective makes you look focused and enthusiastic and helps the reader interpret the information that follows in the resume.
• The objective should be brief and realistic with a focus on what you are able to offer, eg, ‘Seeking a research position within Environmental Sciences where my university studies in water management and my work experience in local government environmental management can be utilised.’

Skills summary [Optional]

• This section can be useful for drawing the recruiter’s attention to your key competencies.
• Focus on skills that are relevant to the job by checking the selection criteria or keywords in the job advertisement.
• Skills can be technical (eg, experience with a particular type of software or lab procedure), industry-specific (eg, classroom management for primary school teaching) or transferable (eg, team work, leadership, time management).
• Offer evidence when you claim to have a particular transferable skill, eg, ‘Excellent written communication skills developed through activities ranging from writing complex technical reports during my science degree to press releases in my role as Publicity Officer for the Student Biological Society’.
• Include your tertiary qualifications, and if recent, also your secondary qualifications. State the full name of the institution and the month and year you completed (or expect to complete) the qualification.
• Start with your most recent qualification/studies and work backwards.
• Other information you could include: your majors, your current grade or WAM, academic awards, merit scholarships, international exchanges, your thesis title and brief description (for research students) and any other relevant achievements.
• Note that this is not the best place to list short courses or trade certificates unless they are relevant to the role.

Experience is a broad term that can refer to a range of practical activities. You may wish to list all of your practical experience under this heading or divide it into different categories. If you have a mix of industry relevant experience and less relevant work, you can divide the section into ‘Relevant Experience’ and ‘Other Experience’. This will ensure that the employer sees the most relevant information first. Some other possible headings are below.

• This is one of the more common headings for listing experience.
• Start with your most recent job and work backwards. Include your position title, the name of the organisation and the month and year you commenced and concluded the employment.
• List your responsibilities and any outcomes or achievements. Quantify where possible, eg, ‘supervised 5 junior staff members’, ‘increased monthly sales by 12%’.
• Be clear about the skills you have used or developed, particularly if you have not included a skills summary on your resume.

Practicums/Placements

You can use this heading for any industry-related experience you have gained as part of your degree, eg, clinical placements for Nursing, teaching practicums for Education, field education placements for Social Work.

• List the name of the organisation, duration of the placement, responsibilities, achievements (if any) and learning outcomes.

Volunteering

This section refers to unpaid work undertaken in the not-for-profit sector, community groups, NGOs or charitable organisations. Most employers will be interested in your voluntary work because it offers evidence of initiative and transferable skills.

• Lay out your experience in a similar way to your employment – title, organisation, dates, duties, achievements/outcomes.

Extracurricular activities

Here you can include student clubs and societies, sporting activities, mentoring, student representative roles and more. As with volunteering, most employers value extracurricular activities.

• Again, lay out in the same way as your employment. Give enough detail for the employer to understand your contribution to the organisation/team/program and the skills you have used.

Memberships

Include membership of any professional associations or industry bodies .

• Use the full and correct name of the organisation, the year of your membership, and your level of membership, eg, student, affiliate, professional, etc.

Conferences/Publications/Articles

• Relevant for applicants with research-based qualifications , or those seeking media/communications/writing roles.
• List your papers and conferences in the formatting used by your industry or discipline area.
• If applying for a non-research role, consider summarising and/or quantifying your publications or conferences, eg, published three research articles on the topic of XYZ in high impact journals, demonstrating excellent written communication skills.

Add your own relevant section/s

You can include other relevant sections in your resume if you have a particular set of experiences that you would like to bring to the employer’s attention. Choose a clear heading that describes your experience and ensure that all points in the section are relevant to the heading. It is important that the section is closely related to the job to which you are applying. Some examples include:

• ‘Leadership’ – for students with experience in student leadership such as mentoring, executive roles in clubs/societies, student politics, or other leadership roles.
• ‘Community Involvement’ – for students who are active in charity or not for profit work, volunteering, advocacy or other community development activities.
• ‘Exhibitions’ – for students seeking work in the visual arts.
• This should always be the last entry on your resume. List 2 or 3 referees who can comment on your work-based skills. If you prefer not to list them on your resume, simply write ‘Available on request’. This will allow you to check in and warn your referees before they are called. Always seek a referee’s permission before you list them in your resume and give them information about the job.
• Choose the person who will give you the best reference, ideally, a previous work/volunteer supervisor, manager or an academic.
• Include their name, job title, current organisation, contact details, and their relationship to you, eg, ‘Thesis supervisor’, ‘Current manager’, if the relationship is not clear from their job title.

Final resume review

Is your resume:

• Targeted and relevant to the role and industry/type of employer?
• Demonstrating the transferability of your experience and skills to the role?
• Presenting your information in an accessible format that best promotes what you have to offer?
• Clear & concise?
• Professionally formatted with good grammar and spelling?
• Making the best first impression possible?

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