resume writing definition and types

What Are the Different Types of Resumes?

Quick Navigation:

What is a resume?

Common details to feature in a resume, types of resumes.

There are various types of resume formats you can follow to create a more effective resume. Having a properly formatted resume can help you gain the attention of employers and secure a job interview. This article explores four main types of resumes and the characteristics of each formatting style. 

A resume is a document created for the purpose of presenting your skills, work history, experience, education and accomplishments. While they are most commonly used to secure employment, resumes may also be used to apply for internships or to enter various educational programs.  

Here are some of the most common details to include in a resume:

• Contact information. Include your phone number and/or email address so you can be reached by employers, hiring managers and recruiters. 
• Professional summary or objective statement. Most resumes begin with a  first-person statement giving details explaining your professional background, what your career goals are, and what qualities and experience you have to offer. 
• Job-related skills. Your resume can include a list of the skills you possess that make you a strong candidate. 
• Educational history.   Include any details about your education, including degrees, certification and any awards you may have obtained during your academic career. 
• Employment history. Employment history is a vital part of your resume. If you are creating a resume to get your first job, an internship or to gain entry into a college or scholastic program, you can include any volunteer work or job-related experience if you don’t have extensive work experience. 
• Keywords. You should incorporate relevant keywords from the job posting to indicate you are a match for the required skills and qualifications. For instance, if you are applying for a job as a lifeguard, you can include keywords that are listed in the job posting such as certified lifeguard, CPR and first aid. 

Ultimately, what you decide to include in your resume will vary based on your personal experience and the job or opportunity you are applying for.

Here are the four most common types of resumes:

Chronological

A chronological resume is the most commonly used format. This type is best for those who have extensive work history in the same industry of the job they’re applying for. A chronological resume starts by listing your work history, with the most recent position listed first. You then continue the resume by listing the remainder of your previous positions in reverse chronological order. This is a safe format for virtually everyone who is seeking a job of any kind. Employers tend to prefer this type of resume because it allows them to easily see your work history. 

Also known as a skills-based resume, a functional resume allows you to focus more on your skills and abilities rather than your work history. This type of resume is typically used when you are just starting your career, for those who have unexplainable gaps in their employment history or when switching from one career to another. Additionally, if you are seeking employment in a more creative field in which your portfolio is more important than your work history, this is also an ideal format. 

Functional resumes begin with a resume summary or objective that details your previous experience or any related skills you would like the employer or the organization to know. The main content of the document should be a list of your skills. These resumes may include a brief work history or they may not include any work history at all. 

Hybrid/combination

A hybrid or combination resume is a cross between a chronological and functional resume. This type of resume focuses on skills but also leaves room for you to include your previous work experience. These resumes are great for those who have extensive work experience but may be looking for a different position or to join a new industry. Additionally, for those who are applying for jobs that require extensive technical skills or other specified skills, this type of resume allows you to list your skills as well as the related work history. 

A hybrid resume begins by listing relevant skills and goes on to list your relevant work history. It can allow for equal space on both sections.

Targeted 

A targeted resume lists only the skills and experience related to the job you are attempting to acquire. These resumes take more work to create than other resume types, as you must review and revise your existing resume to extract only the work experience and skills related to the position you are seeking. However, it is beneficial because it allows employers to see only the skills and experience that they are looking for and may make you appear to be a perfect match for the position you are seeking. This can be a chronological, functional or hybrid format.

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

In This Guide:

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

• Resume Templates

Personal Details and Contact Information

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

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

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

We are going to cover some basic topics like:

• What is a resume
• Resume format and layout

As well as some more advanced ones like:

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

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

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

So let’s dive in.

What is a resume?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preparation before writing a resume

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

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

What you need to do is get a list of:

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

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

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

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

Format and Layout

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pick the right font and font size:

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

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

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

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

But don’t worry, we got you covered.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check them all and win the resume game.

Resume Structure

Okay, we are doing great so far!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The work experience is the heart of your resume.

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

The basics of this section should include:

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

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

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

Results matter and numbers are important.

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

Perfect this section by checking out - Work Experience Section .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hard Skills

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

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

Soft Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Certifications, Awards, & Honors

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

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

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

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

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

Here are a few sections that you can consider:

• Publications
• Volunteering
• Hobbies & Interests

Tailor Your Information to the Job Ad

So far, so good.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And quite often they are a dealbreaker for the employer.

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

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

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

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

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

Takeaways: What is a resume?

We are all done.

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

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

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

• Resume Guides

Resume Order of Jobs – Does it Matter?

Cover letter design: 5+ tips & examples for success, how to network effectively to get hired, resume keywords to land interviews and get hired, sam landed a job at spotify with enhancv, can you count internships as work experience yes, and here's why..

• Create Resume
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Resume Examples
• AI Resume Builder
• Resume Summary Generator
• Resume Formats
• Resume Checker
• Resume Skills
• How to Write a Resume
• Modern Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Formats
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Guides
• Job Interview Guides
• Job Interview Questions
• Career Resources
• Meet our customers
• Career resources
• English (UK)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

© 2024 . All rights reserved.

Made with love by people who care.

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

Different Types of Resumes (With Examples)

Chronological Resume

Functional resume, combination resume, infographic resume, resume with profile/summary, targeted resume, nontraditional resume, mini-resume.

Adrian Mangel / The Balance

There are several basic types of resumes you can use to apply for job openings. You can choose to write a chronological, functional, combination, or a targeted resume. Each resume type is used for different purposes. Therefore, when deciding which type of resume to use, you have to think about your current employment circumstances.

Here's an overview of each type of resume, advice on when to use which one, and examples.

A chronological resume starts by listing your  work history , with the most recent position listed first. Below your most recent job, you list your other jobs in reverse chronological order.

Employers typically prefer this type of resume because it's easy to see what jobs you have held and when you have worked at them. This is the most common resume type.

This type of resume works well for job seekers with a strong, solid work history. If you are starting your career, or if you are changing career fields, you might consider a different resume type.​

Example: Chronological Resume

A functional resume focuses on your skills and experience, rather than on your  chronological work history . Instead of having a “work history” section at the top of your resume, you might have a “professional experience” or “accomplishments” section that lists various skills you have developed over the years.

A functional resume also sometimes includes a resume summary or headline at the top, which details a person’s skills and achievements. A functional resume might not include one’s employment history  at all or might have a concise list of work history at the bottom of the resume.

Functional resumes are used most often by people who are  changing careers  or who have gaps in their employment history. It is also useful for people who are new to the workforce, have limited work experience, or who have a gap in their employment .

By highlighting skills rather than work history, you can emphasize how you are qualified for the job.​

Example: Functional Resume

A combination resume is a mix between a chronological resume and a functional resume. At the top of the resume is a list of one’s skills and qualifications. Below this is one’s chronological work history. However, the work history is not the focus of the resume and typically does not take up much space on the resume.

With this type of resume, you can highlight the skills you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for, as well as provide your chronological work history. After all, most employers want to see your chronological work history, even if that history is not very extensive.

This kind of resume helps you highlight what makes you the best fit for the job, while still giving the employer all the information he or she wants.​

Example: Combination Resume

Infographic resumes include graphic design elements in addition to or instead of text. A traditional resume uses text to list a candidate's work experience, education, and skills, while an infographic resume uses layout, color, design, formatting, icons, and font styling to organize content.​

Example: Infographic Resume

A Robert Half survey reports that 78% of employers prefer traditional resumes to infographics, even for creative roles.

A resume with a profile section  includes a concise summary of an applicant’s skills, experiences, and goals as they relate to a  specific job . This summary (typically no more than a couple of sentences long) helps candidates “sell” themselves to the company to which they are applying.

Adding a profile is helpful for almost any applicant. If you have extensive experience, a profile can concisely explain that experience to the hiring manager right away. If you have limited work experience, a profile can help you highlight the skills that you do have.

Example: Resume With a Profile

You can also add a headline, which is a brief phrase that summarizes why you are an ideal candidate for the job, to your resume.

A targeted resume is a resume that is customized to specifically highlight the experience and skills you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for. It takes more work to write a targeted resume than to click to apply with your existing resume. However, it's well worth the effort, especially when applying for jobs that are a perfect match for your qualifications and experience.

Example: Targeted Resume

Try to write a targeted resume for every job. Employers can easily see when you submit a generic resume, rather than thinking about why you are qualified for that specific job.

A nontraditional resume is a unique version of your resume that may include photos, graphics, images, graphs, and other visuals. It might be an online resume, or a physical resume with infographics, as mentioned above. It could also be a video or a resume on a social networking website.

Nontraditional resumes are ideal for people in creative fields, who want to demonstrate their ability to create visually engaging designs or to create web pages. It can be a good way for a job candidate to stand out from the crowd in professions like design, web design, journalism, and more.

A  mini-resume  contains a  brief summary  of your career highlights and qualifications. It only contains the information that relates to the position you are applying for or the industry you would like to work in.

In most cases, your traditional resume will be appropriate. A mini-resume, however, can be useful at job fairs or career networking events when you're meeting with many people and want to leave them with something more than just a business card. You can also use a mini-resume when you're networking and would like your contact to pass on your information to a hiring manager or recruiter. 

Example: Mini-Resume

Key Takeaways

• Chronological resumes list work history in reverse chronological order, with the most recent job listed first.
• Functional resumes focus on skills and experience rather than on employment history.
• Combination resumes list skills and qualifications first, followed by work history.

CareerOneStop. " Select the Best Format ." Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.

Robert Half. " Best Resume Format ." Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.

CareerOneStop. " Headline and Summary Sample ." Accessed Feb. 9, 2022.

When You Write

What Is Resume Writing? Definition, Purpose & Examples

Have you ever wondered what goes into crafting the perfect resume? Resume writing is a crucial skill that can make or break your chances of landing your dream job. Whether you’re a recent graduate entering the job market for the first time or a seasoned professional looking to switch careers, a well-crafted resume is essential to showcasing your skills and experience.

In this article, we’ll explore the basics of resume writing, including its purpose and examples of effective resumes. We’ll also provide you with tips for creating a winning resume that will impress potential employers and help you stand out from the crowd.

So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your resume, read on to learn more about the art of resume writing.

Key Takeaways

• Crafting a perfect resume is crucial for landing a dream job and advancing one’s career.
• A strong resume should be tailored and updated for each job application, showcasing unique talents and achievements.
• Choosing the right format, including relevant keywords, and maintaining a clean and organized layout is important for creating an impressive resume.
• Tips for creating a winning resume include paying attention to formatting, making it visually appealing, and highlighting achievements through bullet points.

Understanding the Basics of Resume Writing

Ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of writing an impressive resume? Let’s start by understanding the basics!

Resume writing is the process of creating a document that summarizes your education, work experience, and skills. The purpose of a resume is to convince a potential employer that you’re the right candidate for the job.

A well-written resume can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting hired. Choosing the right resume format is crucial to creating an impressive resume. There are several formats to choose from, including chronological, functional, and combination.

When selecting a format, it’s important to consider your work history and the type of job you’re applying for. Another common mistake that applicants make is including irrelevant information. Your resume should be tailored to the job you’re applying for, so only include information that’s relevant to the position.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following the basics of resume writing, you can create a winning resume that showcases your skills and experience.

Defining the Purpose of a Resume

Hold on to your hats, because we’re about to uncover the ultimate reason why job hunters pour their hearts and souls into crafting a killer document that screams, ‘Hire me!’

The importance of a resume lies in its ability to showcase your skills, achievements, and experience to potential employers. It serves as a marketing tool that highlights your strengths and positions you as the ideal candidate for the job you’re applying for.

The target audience for your resume is the hiring manager or recruiter who sifts through hundreds of resumes to find the perfect match for the job. Your resume needs to grab their attention and make them want to learn more about you.

It should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight your relevant skills and experience. In short, your resume is your ticket to the job interview, and its purpose is to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.

Examples of Effective Resumes

You’re going to love seeing how real job seekers have nailed their resumes by showcasing their unique strengths and experiences. Here are some examples of effective resumes that highlight different formatting tricks and tailoring for specific industries:

• A graphic designer’s resume that uses a creative layout and showcases their portfolio.
• An engineer’s resume that uses bullet points to highlight their technical skills and accomplishments.
• A sales representative’s resume that uses numbers to demonstrate their success in meeting quotas.
• A teacher’s resume that includes specific examples of their lesson plans and classroom management strategies.

Each of these resumes demonstrates how important it is to tailor your document to the specific industry you’re applying for. By highlighting your skills and experience in a way that resonates with potential employers, you increase your chances of standing out from the competition.

And by using formatting tricks such as creative layouts or bullet points, you can make your resume visually appealing and easy to read.

Tips for Creating a Winning Resume

Don’t miss out on your dream job – make sure your resume stands out with these winning tips!

First and foremost, pay close attention to the formatting of your resume. A clean and organized layout will make it easier for potential employers to quickly identify your skills and experience. Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and keep the font size consistent throughout the document. Avoid using fancy fonts or colors, as this can make your resume appear unprofessional.

Another important tip is to optimize your resume with relevant keywords. Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes for specific keywords related to the job opening. To increase your chances of getting noticed, research the job description and include relevant skills and industry-specific jargon throughout your resume.

However, be careful not to overdo it – stuffing your resume with too many keywords can make it look forced and unnatural. With these formatting tips and keyword optimization techniques, you can create a winning resume that will help you stand out from the competition and land your dream job.

The Importance of a Strong Resume

When it comes to landing your dream job, it’s crucial to remember that a strong resume is like a key that unlocks the door to new opportunities. Just like a key needs to fit perfectly in a lock to open it, your resume needs to be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for in order to catch the attention of hiring managers and get your foot in the door.

A strong resume is not only important for getting your first job, but also for career advancement. You’ll need to update your resume and tailor it to each job you apply for throughout your entire career.

A well-crafted resume can make all the difference in the job search process. Job search strategies have evolved over time, but a strong resume will always be an essential component. Your resume is a reflection of your skills, experience, and accomplishments, and it’s the first impression you’ll make on a potential employer.

So take the time to craft a strong resume that showcases your unique talents, and you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job.

Your resume is your first impression, so it’s crucial to make it count.

A well-written resume can help you stand out from the competition and land your dream job. However, keep in mind that the job market is highly competitive, and a strong resume alone might not be enough to secure a job. Networking, building your skills, and gaining experience are also essential factors.

So, don’t put all your eggs in one basket, and keep working hard towards your goals. As the saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

Patience, persistence, and hard work will pay off in the end.

Recommended Reading...

Academic writing in resume: how to highlight your academic achievements, active vs passive note-taking: understanding the difference, can you claim resume writing on tax here’s what you need to know, best way to take notes in university: tips for success.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

© 2024 When You Write

• Career Blog

Resume: Definition, Meaning, Purpose, and Tips

A resume is a document that outlines a person’s education, work experience, skills, and achievements. It is used to market oneself to potential employers and is often the first impression a hiring manager has of a job applicant.

Having a strong resume is crucial in today’s competitive job market. It can mean the difference between getting an interview or being overlooked for a position. A well-crafted resume can showcase your qualifications and make you stand out among other candidates.

Your resume serves as a marketing tool that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements to potential employers. It is a reflection of your professionalism and attention to detail. You want to make sure that your resume is not only well-written but also visually appealing and easy to skim through.

Employers typically spend only a few seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to read it in more detail or move on to the next applicant. Therefore, it is important to capture their attention quickly and effectively.

A strong resume can help you land your dream job, advance your career, and increase your earning potential. By highlighting your accomplishments and skills, your resume lets potential employers know what you can bring to the table.

In the following sections, we will discuss the meaning and purpose of a resume, as well as provide tips on how to make your resume stand out from the crowd. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to create a professional and compelling resume that will help you achieve your career goals.

Purpose of a Resume

One of the critical components of a job application process is a resume. A resume serves specific purposes, and job seekers invest considerable time in creating an impressive resume that will help them stand out from other applicants. In this section, we’ll explore why you need a resume and what employers look for in a resume.

Why do you need a resume?

A resume is a crucial document that a job seeker submits to a prospective employer, summarising their skills, experiences, and education. It is a tool for selling oneself to a potential employer and demonstrating suitability for a specific role. A well-prepared resume can help job seekers catch the employer’s attention and increase the chances of getting an interview.

More than that, a resume shows that you are prepared for a job search and care about the job application process. It also shows that you are willing to put in extra time to present yourself professionally to the employer.

What are employers looking for in a resume?

Employers typically receive numerous resumes for a single job opening. A well-prepared resume must capture the employer’s attention without including extra information that may hinder its effectiveness. Here are a few critical elements employers look for when reviewing resumes:

Qualifications and Skills:  Employers want to know whether you have the necessary qualifications and skills needed for the job. It’s crucial to tailor your resume to the job specifications to highlight the required skills and qualifications for the role.

Experience:  Employers look for candidates with experience in the relevant field. Highlighting any relevant work experience, even if it’s not from a job, can be critical.

Achievements:  Employers are interested in understanding what you achieved in your previous roles, such as quantifiable achievements, awards or recognition.

Clarity and Conciseness:  Employers are busy people and do not have time to read through lengthy resumes. A clear, concise, and well-organised resume makes it easier for employers to identify whether you are a good fit for the job.

A resume is critical in job searching, and it’s essential to create an eye-catching resume that accurately showcases your skills, experience, and education. Keep in mind that employers receive numerous resumes for a single job opening, and a well-written resume tailored to the job specifications can help you stand out and increase the chances of getting an interview.

Types of Resumes

As we’ve discussed earlier, resumes are an essential part of the recruitment process. They’re often the first point of contact between job seekers and employers, making it imperative to make a good impression. To best showcase your skills and experience, however, you should know which type of resume to use. Here are three common types of resumes you may choose from:

Chronological Resume

A chronological resume is the most common type that lists your work history in reverse chronological order (meaning from most recent to earliest). This format is best for people who have a strong and consistent employment history as it shows your career progression and highlights your experience. Employers can easily see the industries, roles, and responsibilities you have taken on in the past. It also works well for job seekers seeking career advancement within the same field.

Functional Resume

Functional resumes focus on your skills and abilities, rather than on a chronological work history. This resume format is ideal for job seekers just starting in their career, those who have gaps in their employment history, or those changing careers. With a focus on skills, you can highlight your abilities that are transferable across various job titles and industries.

Combination Resume

A combination résumé is a blend of both functional and chronological resumes, so it presents both your skills and experience. This format is best for job seekers wanting to shift job titles or pursuing a new industry. It allows you to highlight your transferable skills to demonstrate how they align with the job requirements, as well as showcasing your relevant work experience.

Regardless of which resume format you choose, always remember to tailor it according to the job you’re applying for. Ensure that your resume is clear, concise, and error-free to make the right impression on the employer. A well-crafted resume can be the difference between landing your dream job and continuously searching for new opportunities. A strong resume should be concise, clear, and easy for employers to read. Therefore, it is important to understand the key components that make up a winning resume.

• Contact Information

Your contact information should be the first thing on your resume. This should include your full name, email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile. Ensure that this information is up-to-date and accurate. You don’t want to miss out on a job opportunity because you provided the wrong email address or phone number.

• Professional Summary

Your professional summary is an introduction to who you are and what you can bring to the table. This section should be brief and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Use this space to showcase your unique selling points and catch the employer’s attention.

• Work Experience

Your work experience is crucial in demonstrating your qualifications for the job you are applying for. When detailing your work experience, try to focus on achievements rather than just listing daily tasks. Quantify your accomplishments and include concrete examples. Don’t forget to include dates of employment, job titles, and company names.

Your education section should include relevant degrees and certifications in reverse chronological order. If you don’t have much work experience, your education can be a key factor in demonstrating your qualifications for the job.

Your skills section is an opportunity to show what you’re capable of. It’s important to highlight both hard and transferable skills that are relevant to the job. Avoid listing overly generic skills (such as “good communication skills”) and instead focus on skills that differentiate you from other candidates.

• Certifications and Awards

If you have any relevant certifications or awards, this is the section to showcase them. Certifications and awards demonstrate your commitment to professional development and help you stand out from other candidates.

How to Format a Resume

When it comes to creating a resume, formatting is key. Here are a few tips to create a clean and professional-looking resume:

Choosing a Font and Font Size

The font you choose for your resume should be easy to read and professional. A few popular choices include Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri. Keep in mind that some recruiters and hiring managers may prefer a specific font, so make sure to do your research before making a final decision.

In terms of font size, the general rule of thumb is to stick to between 10-12 points to ensure that your resume is legible. You can use a slightly larger font for headings or section headers, but be careful not to go overboard.

Using Bullet Points

Bullet points are a great way to break up your resume and make it easy to read. Use bullet points to highlight your most important accomplishments or responsibilities in your previous roles. Make sure to keep your bullet points concise and impactful.

Creating Clear Section Headers

Clear section headers help to organize your resume and make it easy for hiring managers to find the information they need. Use bold or slightly larger font to make your headers stand out. Some common section headers include “Education,” “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Projects.”

Utilizing White Space

Large blocks of text can overwhelm recruiters and make your resume appear cluttered. Utilizing white space can help to balance your resume and make it more visually appealing. Try to keep your margins uniform and use spacing between sections to create a clean and organized look.

By using these formatting tips, your resume will stand out to potential employers and give them a clear understanding of your skills and qualifications.

Tips for Writing a Strong Resume

A well-written resume is essential in landing your dream job. Here are several tips to make your resume stand out from the rest.

Tailoring your Resume to the Job Description

One of the most important aspects of a strong resume is tailoring it to the job you’re applying for. This means that you need to customize your resume to highlight the skills and experiences relevant to the job description. Use the keywords and phrases included in the job posting, and make sure to showcase how your past experiences align with the position’s requirements.

Quantifying your Achievements

Employers want to see results, so it’s important to quantify your achievements on your resume. Use numbers, percentages, and other metrics to showcase your accomplishments. This creates a clear picture of your abilities and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

Using Action Words and Power Phrases

To keep your resume engaging, use action words and power phrases. These words describe your experiences and build excitement around your achievements. Action words like “achieved,” “improved,” and “generated” help focus on the results of your actions, while power phrases like “unmatched expertise” or “outstanding leadership” can help to convey the value you bring to the table.

Keeping your Resume Concise and Relevant

Your resume should be concise and relevant. This means that you should focus on your most valuable experiences and accomplishments, while omitting irrelevant information. Use white space, bullet points, and clear formatting to make your resume easy to read. Keep your resume to one or two pages and remove any fluff or repetitive information.

By following these tips, you can create a strong resume that showcases your skills, experiences, and achievements effectively. Remember to tailor your resume to the job description, quantify your achievements, use action words and power phrases, and keep your resume concise and relevant. Good luck!

Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid

A resume is a powerful tool for landing a job interview, but if it is not executed properly, it can also be the reason for rejection. In this section, we will discuss the common resume mistakes that you should avoid in order to increase your chances of getting hired.

Typos and Grammatical Errors

One of the most frequent mistakes that job seekers make on their resumes is failing to check for typos and grammatical errors. A single mistake can create a negative impression of you and your attention to detail. Take the time to proofread your resume multiple times, and if possible, ask a friend or family member to review it as well.

Lies and Exaggerations

Exaggerating skills, job titles or previous experiences to impress recruiters is never a good idea. Honesty is key, especially when it comes to job applications. Lies can be easily detected by recruiters, and they will ruin your chances of getting hired. Stick to the truth and portray yourself in the most positive light based on your actual accomplishments.

Including Irrelevant Information

Recruiters tend to scan resumes quickly, looking for specific information that meets the requirements of the job. Including irrelevant information will distract them from the characteristics that are essential for the job you are applying for. Only include professional experiences and skills that are relevant to the position you are applying for.

Not Including Keywords

Most companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to quickly filter large volumes of resumes. These systems are programmed to scan resumes for specific keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job advertisement. If you do not include the relevant keywords, your resume will likely be filtered out before it even reaches a human recruiter. Review the job advertisement and include important terms and phrases in your resume.

Avoiding these common mistakes is the key to creating a winning resume, one that catches the attention of recruiters and increases your chances of landing the interview. Your resume is the first connection between yourself and a potential employer, so make it count. Take the time to craft an effective and accurate document, and keep these tips in mind to increase your chances of success.

Resume Example for Beginners

As a beginner, creating a resume can be a daunting task. You may feel overwhelmed by the variety of information you need to include and uncertain about the layout. However, with the right approach and guidance, you can create a compelling resume that showcases your skills and experience.

Basic Layout for a Resume

To begin, let’s review the basic layout of a resume. A standard resume should include the following elements:

Contact Information:  Your full name, phone number, email address, and physical address.

Objective or Summary Statement:  A brief statement that highlights your career goals and summarizes your qualifications.

Education:  Your education background, including your degree(s) or certificate(s), the name of the institution, and the date of graduation.

Work Experience:  Your work history, including your previous job titles, companies, dates of employment, and key responsibilities and achievements.

Skills:  A list of your relevant skills, including technical and soft skills.

Optional Sections:  Additional sections such as honors and awards, certifications, volunteer experience, or professional affiliations.

Sample Resume Content for a Beginner

Now, let’s take a look at a sample resume content for a beginner. Please note that this example is for illustrative purposes only, and you should customize your resume according to your own experience and qualifications.

As you can see, this sample resume follows the basic layout described above, including key sections such as contact information, objective statement, education, work experience, and skills. It also highlights the applicant’s relevant coursework, intern experience, and skills.

Remember, your resume is your chance to make a strong first impression with potential employers. By following these tips and creating a well-crafted resume, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job.

Resume Example for Experienced Professionals

Crafting a professional and effective resume is crucial for experienced professionals looking to advance their careers. A well-organized and thoughtfully designed resume can help catch the attention of potential employers and increase the likelihood of securing an interview.

Professional Layout for a Resume

To create a professional and visually appealing resume, it’s important to choose a clear and easy-to-read font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and maintain consistent formatting throughout the document. Use bullet points to break up large chunks of text and highlight key accomplishments and relevant experience.

A typical professional resume should include the following sections:

• Contact information, including your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable)
• Professional summary or objective statement, highlighting your experience and career goals
• Work experience, listing your most recent or relevant positions first and detailing your responsibilities and accomplishments
• Education and certifications, including any relevant coursework or training
• Skills, showcasing your relevant technical and soft skills
• References, available upon request

Sample Resume Content for an Experienced Professional

Here’s an example of a professional and effective resume for an experienced individual,:

Contact Information:

• 123 Main Street, Anytown, USA 12345
• 555-123-4567

How to make your Resume Stand Out

In today’s job market, it’s important to make sure your resume stands out from the rest. One way to do this is by showcasing your Unique Selling Points (USPs). These are the qualities, skills, and experiences that make you different from other candidates. To identify your USPs, think about what sets you apart and what you’re particularly good at. Then, highlight these factors in your resume by including them at the top of your document or in a prominent section.

Another way to make your resume stand out is by including your Online Portfolio and Social Media Profiles. An online portfolio is a great way to showcase your work and demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Social media profiles can also be useful, particularly if they showcase your professional accomplishments, expertise, and skills. However, it’s important to ensure that your online presence is consistent with the image you want to present to employers.

Incorporating Outreach and Networking Efforts can also help make your resume stand out. This can include attending events, networking with professionals in your industry, and keeping in touch with former colleagues and employers. These efforts can help you build relationships and make valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities.

There are several ways to make your resume stand out, including showcasing your USPs, including your Online Portfolio and Social Media Profiles, and Incorporating Outreach and Networking Efforts. By highlighting your unique qualities, demonstrating your skills and expertise, and building valuable connections, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Related Articles

• 10 Cosmetology Resume Examples That Will Stand Out in 2023
• 10 Bioinformatics Resume Examples for 2023
• 30 Weekend Jobs to Boost Your Income in 2023
• Marriage and Family Therapist Resume: Keywords and Skills
• Guide to Gigs and Freelance Jobs: How to Succeed in 2023

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

• Search Search Please fill out this field.

What Is a Resume?

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

• Career Advice

Resume Definition: Meaning, Purpose, and What Should Not Be on Yours

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

Investopedia / Jiaqi Zhou

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

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

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

Whatever the format, most resumes include a brief summary of skills and experience, followed by a bullet list of previous jobs in reverse chronological order and a list of degrees earned. A final section might be added to highlight specific skills, such as fluency in a foreign language, knowledge of computer languages, professionally useful hobbies, professional affiliations, and any honors achieved.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Are Common Resume Mistakes?

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

Should I Create More Than One Resume?

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

What If I Do Not Have Any Work Experience?

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

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

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

• Terms of Service
• Editorial Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• Resume and Cover Letter
• Highlighting Writing Skills...

Highlighting Writing Skills on Your Resume

11 min read · Updated on April 22, 2024

Do you know how to prove your writing skills in a resume?

In today's competitive labor market, it can sometimes be difficult to differentiate yourself from other job candidates. To successfully compete, you need to make sure that your resume delivers a powerfully compelling message that makes a positive first impression on hiring managers. One way to enhance your resume narrative is to include your relevant writing skills.

In this post, we will explain the following: 

Why writing skills are important in so many different industries

We'll examine the different types of writing abilities that employers may be looking for

We will also help you learn how to match your skills to your desired job role

We'll show you how to use achievements to highlight writing skills in your resume

We'll provide some examples showing you how to include writing skills in a resume and offer some tips you can use to enhance your writing ability

What are writing skills, and why are they important?

Many job seekers assume that they only need to include writing skills in a resume if they're seeking a job that involves a lot of writing. Obviously, the ability to communicate through the written word is an essential skill for people who create marketing presentations, reports, legal briefs, and similar documents. At the same time, though, those same skills are invaluable assets in many other fields as well.

That's because writing skills enable you to communicate ideas in a convincing way. People who possess these skills are often proficient in a wide array of communication styles, including everything from persuasive writing to the use of descriptive, technical, or creative writing. Effective writers also tend to excel in the use of good writing structure, grammar, punctuation, and messaging tone.

Employers who see writing skills on a resume will recognize you as someone whose communication skills can provide real value to any team. That's true whether you're seeking a job as a copywriter or pursuing a role in marketing, accounting, or management. 

The bottom line is clear: even if you're not seeking a job that regularly requires great writing skills, highlighting them in your resume can help set you apart from rival job seekers.

Types of writing skills for a resume

At this point, you might be wondering just how detailed you should be when describing your writing skills in your resume. The reality is that there are a host of distinct writing skills that can benefit you in various job roles. Let's take a moment and review some of the most common writing skills that employers might want to see:

Fundamental writing skills like grammar, punctuation, etc.

Business writing

Creative writing

Content writing

Technical writing

Email composition

Report writing

Grant writing

Collaborative writing

Media content creation

Social media writing

Presentation writing

Brand management

How to identify the right writing skills for the job

Before you just start listing different writing skills on your resume, it's important to ensure that you're aligning those skills with the employer's needs. The easiest way to do that is to use your research skills to examine the job posting and any role description you can find. 

Which specific writing skills are listed as required qualifications? 

What terms are used to describe those abilities? 

Create a list of all those skill requirements and focus on including them in your resume's skill section.

It can also be helpful to search the Internet for similar job resumes to see which skills are typically listed as core competencies. That can provide useful insight into what employers want to see from candidates in your field.

It's also vital to make sure you're using the same terms the employer used in their job posting since those terms may be keywords needed to satisfy applicant tracking systems, or ATS. 

You'll want to include those keywords throughout your resume to ensure the ATS software finds them during the automated screening process. That can improve your resume's chances of being seen by a hiring manager.

Use achievements to demonstrate your writing skills on a resume

As you create your list of writing skills, always focus on skills that you can demonstrate by referencing specific experiences and accomplishments. Employers understand that anyone can claim to possess certain skills. However, only truly skilled individuals will be able to back up those claims with real-life achievements. By citing those skills in the summary and work experience sections of your resume, you can more effectively demonstrate how your writing skills create real value for employers.

The following tips can help you create powerful achievement statements that demonstrate your writing skills in your resume.

Select writing skills that have achieved real results

Make sure that you include achievements that show how the writing skills in your resume were used to produce real results for employers. Your focus should be on using achievements to prove your skills. For example, if you've used those abilities to create client presentations that helped close deals, create an accomplishment statement that highlights that achievement.

Quantify the value your skills have provided

It is also vital that you quantify your achievements by including real numbers that reflect the value your skills can bring to any organization. Those numbers can demonstrate the amount of revenue that your writing skills helped to generate, increases in online engagement, time savings, cost reductions, or any other measurable achievement that contributed to your employers' profitability, productivity, and operational efficiency.

Create achievement statements

If you really want to make sure that employers understand the value of your writing skills, you can highlight those abilities throughout your resume. Obviously, you'll want to include some of the most prominent writing skills within your core competencies section, and in the bullet point achievements that you include in your professional experience section. For maximum impact, you can also include an achievement statement in your summary that emphasizes those skills.

Below, we'll show you how to highlight your writing skills in each of those key sections.Writing skills in your core competencies section

As you might imagine, your core competencies, or skills section, can be a great place to highlight these writing abilities. You can include some of your core writing skills in this section, along with other key technical abilities and relevant soft skills. Remember to use bullet points for your list and use two or three columns to format the section. 

Some of the key soft skills that complement writing expertise include:

Communication

Search engine optimization

Adaptability

Research techniques

Time management

Social media management

The ability to connect with audiences

Try to include a mix of these hard and soft skills. That will help employers understand that you not only have the technical abilities to perform the job but also possess the interpersonal skills you'll need to work effectively with others.

Related post : Soft Skills Explained - and the Top 7 for Your Resume

Writing skills in your resume summary

Your resume summary is another fantastic place to highlight writing skills in your resume. Obviously, it's one of the first things many employers read, and serves as your introduction to the reader. If writing skills are an important part of your resume narrative, you need to include some mention of them in this vital summary paragraph. 

The best way to do that is to add an achievement statement that demonstrates those talents. For example:

Dynamic Marketing Manager with 9 years of experience in strategic campaign development, team building, and project implementation. Skilled content creator with proficiency in online branding, search engine optimization strategies, and increased website traffic and sales engagement. Created multi-tiered email and social media content that reached 20,000 new customers monthly, increasing customer engagement by 22% and leading to a 17% boost in sales.

In that sample summary statement, the last sentence highlights the candidate's writing skills, providing hard numbers that quantify how their content provided real benefits to the employer. If you can create solid achievement statements that demonstrate this type of value, your accomplishments will help to convince employers that you have the skills you claim to possess.

Related post : Resume Profile Explained (with Examples)

Writing skills in your work experience section

It will come as no surprise that the best place to highlight and prove writing skills on your resume is in your work experience section. Here, you will want to use bullet-point achievement statements that quantify your results. For each job title you've included in this section, add between four and six of these bullet-point accomplishments using real numbers that demonstrate your value proposition.

Related post : 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

How to list writing skills on a resume: examples

Below are some examples of the types of achievements you can include in these bullet point statements.

• Wrote ABC Corp. Sales Training Manual, revising onboarding and training techniques to reduce onboarding time by 17%; improved new salesperson sales results by 22% in their first six months on the job.
• Created presentation content for Alpha Bank proposed merger, helping overcome M&A negotiation barriers and facilitating $100 million acquisition.
• Crafted more than 500 blog posts, website landing pages, and email campaigns in two years, credited with 130% increase in customer online traffic and 12% increase in sales revenue.

You get the point. The key is to focus on your writing contributions, describing the challenge you faced, what you did to overcome that obstacle, and defining the results. 

If you find yourself struggling to condense those narratives into brief achievement statements, check out a related post: How to Create an Effective STAR Method Resume (With Examples) .

Tips to improve your writing skills

You may find it interesting to know that even professional writers actively work to further develop their writing skills. The reality is that everyone can benefit from continuing to develop their written communication skills, and that includes those who only use these skills on an occasional basis. 

So, how can you develop your writing skills to ensure that you have the abilities needed to make a great impression on employers? Below are some tips to guide you in that question.

1.     Return to the basics

Spend some time reacquainting yourself with writing fundamentals like grammar, spelling, and punctuation. You can find free resources online or take a class at a local community college if you need additional help.

2.     Read more

Believe it or not, regular reading is one of the biggest secrets to effective writing. Immerse yourself in the written word and pay attention to how other writers communicate to their audiences.

3.     Learn to use outlines

Another secret to effective writing is to learn how to create outlines. Before you begin to write any complex document, always start with an outline that provides a clear structure for your narrative.

4.     Practice writing

This cannot be emphasized enough: if you want to be a better writer, you have no choice but to write. Write something every day to ensure that your skills are constantly being used. Practice won't make you perfect, but it will make you better.

5.     Get used to creating drafts

Never assume that the first words you write will be your finished product. Instead, take your ideas and get them out of your head and into your document to create a first draft. Once that's done, you can go back and revise that content as much as needed to create the right message.

6.     Always do your homework

Don't underestimate the power of research. By doing your homework before you start writing, you can ensure that you write with conviction and authority. Readers are drawn to authentic content.

7.     Don't be afraid to delete unnecessary content

Never be afraid to delete words, sentences, or entire paragraphs that contribute little to your narrative. The best writers are always willing to abandon content that isn't achieving their goals.

Enhance your job search by including writing skills in your resume

When you want to highlight your writing skills on a resume, it's not enough to just say that you possess those abilities. Instead, you need to demonstrate those skills by providing real examples of measurable achievements. If you can do that, you'll have an easier time proving those writing skills to employers – which can help differentiate you from rival job seekers and improve your odds of landing an interview and job offer!

Want to make sure that the writing skills in your resume effectively convey your writing talent? Get a free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended reading:

Seven Key Resume Sections and How to Organize Them

11 Key Things to Put on Your Resume

17 Resume Tips to Get Seen and Hired Faster

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.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.