best resume examples 2023

Resume Examples for 2024 & Guides for Any Job [90+ Examples]

In today’s competitive job market, having an impactful resume is more essential than ever. 

However, many job seekers struggle to craft a resume that effectively highlights their skills and experience and, in turn, misses out on potential job opportunities. 

This is where our extensive library of resume examples comes in. 

By looking at examples of resumes for different industries and professions, you can gain great insight into what works and what doesn’t, get inspired to present your own qualifications, and stand out from the competition.

Let’s dive in!

15+ Resume Examples

#1. architect resume example.

Here’s what this architect resume example does right:

• Lists related experience. This resume highlights the relevant professional experience the candidate gained in the field during their internship.
• Mentions achievements and responsibilities. The candidate backs up their claims by going into detail about their achievements and responsibilities. 
• Focus on personal projects. By dedicating a section to their personal projects, this candidate makes up for their lack of work experience and shows off their dedication to the industry. 

#2. Business Resume Example

Here’s what this business-related resume example does right:

• Prioritizes work experience. The work experience section is arguably the most important section in every resume, which is why this candidate has given it a priority by giving it enough resume space and going into detail about their previous positions. 
• Highlights accomplishments. To make their professional experience even more impactful, this candidate has supported all their claims with quantifiable achievements. 
• Lists the right optional sections . The candidate adds more value to their resume by including the organizations, honors, and conferences as optional sections.

#3. Computer Science Resume Example

Here’s what this computer science resume does right: 

• Prioritizes technical skills. Technical skills are essential when it comes to IT-related roles, which is why this candidate has prioritized them over soft skills.
• Keeps the education section concise. With such extensive professional experience in the field, the candidate has opted to keep their education section short.
• Lists relevant social media profiles. Listing websites like GitHub and LinkedIn is a great way to provide recruiters with additional information about your skills.

#4. Data Analyst Resume Example

Here’s what this data analyst resume does right: 

• Includes a strong resume summary . This candidate showcases their key skills and qualifications from the get-go, which is much more likely to get recruiters to read their resumes from start to finish.
• Highlights technical skills. Data analysts work with “big data,” so this candidate prioritizes their quantitative and technical skills over other resume sections.
• Lists relevant professional certifications . The resume lists the candidate’s most noteworthy professional certificates.

#5. College Resume Example

Here’s what this college resume example does right: 

• Lists relevant social media profiles. By including their Medium and LinkedIn accounts, this candidate gives the hiring manager a chance to know them more professionally. 
• Highlights achievements . Although they lack work experience, the candidate has listed everything they’ve achieved during their academic career, thus showing they’re a promising candidate. 
• Mentions the right optional sections. Adding hobbies and interests and foreign languages to a resume is a huge plus for a candidate with no work experience.

#6. Customer Service Resume Example

Here’s what this customer service resume does right: 

• Includes both soft and hard skills . Customer service roles require a mix of soft and hard skills, so this candidate has listed both. 
• Mentions quantifiable achievements. To make their achievements more impressive, the candidate has backed up their work achievements with data and numbers. 
• Lists foreign language skills. Foreign languages are a huge plus when you’re working in customer service and this resume does a good job highlighting the candidate’s foreign language skills. 

#7. Digital Marketing Resume Example

Here’s what this digital marketing resume does right: 

• Follows the reverse chronological format . This format is the most popular one worldwide and is easily the safest choice.
• Grabs attention with a resume summary. In a single glance, the recruiter can tell that the candidate is a digital marketing professional with the right amount of experience.
• Lists relevant skills. The digital marketing specialist resume above lists in-demand marketing skills like Google Ads, SEO, and others.

#8. Graduate Resume Example

Here’s what this graduate resume example does right:

• Starts off with a well-written resume objective . The resume objective does a great job of showing off the candidate’s promise and industry-related experience. 
• Includes work experience. The candidate has gained professional experience while they were a student and they’ve made sure to include that in their resume. 
• Takes advantage of optional sections. Sections like volunteer experience, and personal projects and achievements can help make up for the lack of extensive experience in the industry. 

#9. HR Resume Example

Here’s what this human resources resume example does right: 

• Follows the right format. The reverse chronological format lists the candidate’s latest experience and achievements first, which is exactly what recruiters want to see. 
• Highlights professional experience. With so many years in the industry, this candidate has dedicated the biggest part of their resume to their work history. 
• Includes courses and certificates. To make their achievements even more impressive, the candidate has included all their courses and certifications. 

#10. Medical Assistant Resume Example

Here’s what this medical assistant resume example does right: 

• Starts off with a memorable resume summary. The candidate lists their years of experience, skills, and passion for the industry, making it more likely for the hiring manager to read the rest of their resume. 
• Lists the candidate’s certificates. There are many certifications one can obtain in the medical field, and this candidate proves how professional they are by listing theirs. 
• Highlights the candidate’s extensive work experience. Experience speaks louder than a thousand words, which is why this resume example provides the work experience section its due space. 

#11. Project Manager Resume Example

Here’s what this project manager resume example does right: 

• Uses bullet points. The candidate uses bullet points to organize and present the information which makes this project manager resume example look neat and structured.
• Keeps their education section relevant. The candidate only includes their key education details, such as their Bachelor’s degree and a field-related minor.
• Takes advantage of additional sections. The candidate takes advantage of the extra space on their project manager resume by including relevant additional sections, such as their industry-related certifications and academic achievements

#12. Bar Manager Resume Example

Here’s what this bar manager resume example does right:

• Includes relevant social media profiles. Details such as your LinkedIn profile or Instagram handle make you look more professional (as long as they’re work-related). 
• Mentions industry-related skills. Instead of listing a bunch of unrelated skills, the bar manager resume example above only lists industry-relevant skills.
• Quantifiable achievements. This applicant quantifies their achievements as much as possible, showing the bar owner how they stand out amongst other candidates.

#13. Supervisor Resume Example

Here’s what this supervisor resume example does right: 

• Lists relevant contact details . The supervisor resume example above leaves out redundancies like marital status or age and includes relevant information, like a LinkedIn URL. 
• Features as many accomplishments as possible. To really highlight their candidate’s professional experience, the supervisor example lists achievements over responsibilities. 
• Lists the right kind of skills. This supervisor's resume example doesn’t list every skill under the sun. Instead, they keep the section relevant by only listing skills required from a supervisor. 

#14. Teacher Resume Example

Here’s what this teacher resume example does right:

• Mentions industry-relevant skills. The candidate lists all the soft and hard skills a teacher should have. 
• Includes hobbies and interests . By including hobbies and interests, the hiring manager will see the candidate as more than just a resume. 
• Lists volunteer experience. The candidate reinforces their teaching experience by including their teaching volunteer gigs and experience. 

#15. Writer Resume Example

Here’s just what this writer resume example does right: 

• Impressive resume summary. The resume includes a brief but effective resume summary that highlights the candidate’s skills and top achievements.
• Relevant contact details. This writer resume example contains relevant contact information, including the candidate’s name and surname, email address, phone number, location, professional website URL, and LinkedIn URL. 
• Short education section. A writer’s skills and experience matter more than their education. For this reason, this candidate kept their writer resume’s education section short and sweet. 

#16. Web Developer Resume Example

Here’s what this web developer resume example does right: 

• Focuses on technical skills. Technical skills are essential for web development, which is why this candidate has prioritized theirs.
• Grabs attention with their work experience. Their rich work experience, listed in reverse chronological order, shows the candidate is a promising professional.
• Keeps their education section minimal. With such extensive work experience and training, the candidate has kept their education section concise.

65+ More Resume Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a resume example for your field? Worry not!

Below you can find a number of other resume examples for different fields and industries:

• Accountant Resume
• Administrative Assistant Resume
• AI Engineer Resume
• Animator Resume
• Babysitter Resume
• Banking Resume
• Bank Teller Resume
• Barbie's Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Bookkeeper Resume
• Business Analyst Resume
• Career Change Resume
• Caregiver Resume
• Cashier Resume
• College Application Resume
• College Freshman Resume
• Consultant Resume
• Construction Project Manager
• Creative Resume Examples
• Data Entry Specialist Resume
• Data Scientist Resume
• Dentist Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Digital Marketing Manager Resume
• Editor Resume
• Electrical Engineer Resume
• Elon Musk's One-Page Resume
• Engineering Resume
• Esthetician Resume
• Europass CV
• Event Planner Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Federal Resume
• Financial Analyst Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Game Designer Resume 
• Graphic Designer Resume
• High School Resume
• Illustrator Resume 
• Interior Designer Resume
• Internship Resume
• Java Developer Resume
• Military to Civilian Resume
• Marketing Executive Resume
• Minimalistic Resume Examples
• Nanny Resume Example
• Nurse Resume
• Office Assistant Resume
• Office Manager Resume
• Operations Manager Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Photographer Resume
• Program Manager Resume
• Real Estate Agent Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Research Assistant Resume
• Restaurant Manager Resume
• Retail Manager Resume
• Richard Branson's One-Page Resume
• Sales Resume
• Sales Associate Resume
• Satya Nadella's One-Page Resume
• Server Resume
• Social Worker Resume
• Software Engineer Resume
• Stay-at-home Mom Resume
• Student Resume
• Student Resume Templates
• Taylor Swift Resume
• Video Editor Resume
• Volunteer Resume
• Waiter/Waitress Resume
• Warehouse Worker Resume
• Web Developer Resume
• Welder Resume

5+ Examples of Resume Templates

Your resume template can play an important role in helping you make a great first impression on the hiring manager. 

Specifically, your industry, work experience, or skills all impact how your resume should look, so make sure to choose the right template when making your resume: 

#1. Traditional Resume

A straightforward format that gives equal importance to all resume sections , emphasizing skills and work experience.

#2. Creative Resume

Land your dream job in the creative industry by using this creative resume template. 

#3. Minimalist Resume

A simple and easy-to-follow resume template. Perfect for more conservative industries which prefer less flashy templates.

#4. Basic Resume

This easy-to-personalize basic resume layout can be ready in under ten minutes through our resume builder .

#5. IT Resume

One of the best resume layouts to choose when you wish to showcase your IT expertise.

#6. Modern Resume 

It can be hard to stand out from the crowd, but this modern resume sample will take care of this.

#7. General Resume

5+ Resume Examples by Career Level

#1. no experience resume .

Are you a student with no experience ? Learn how to write a compelling resume with our guide! 

#2. College Freshman Resume

Learn how to ace your college freshman resume with our comprehensive guide! 

#3. Graduate Resume

Fresh out of college? Write an impactful graduate resume to land your first gig after college. 

#4. Career Change Resume

Going through a career change? Perfect your career change resume to make the transition as smooth as possible. 

#5. Manager Resume

#6. Executive Resume

The Perfect Resume Structure 

Not sure how to structure your resume?

Here’s our tried-and-tested resume layout :

• Choose the right resume format or pick a template. If you’re formatting your resume yourself, follow the reverse-chronological format and make sure to follow the right layout rules. Alternatively, you can use one of our premade resume templates and not have to worry about formatting your resume one bit. 
• Add relevant contact details and make sure they’re mistake-free. You shouldn’t be missing information such as your full name and job title, e-mail address, and where you’re based. Optionally, you can also include some relevant social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn.
• Include a resume summary or a resume objective. Done right, a resume summary will show the hiring manager you’re a relevant candidate from the get-go and have them read the rest of your resume.
• List your work experience, placing special focus on your achievements. Your work experience becomes more meaningful if you include your achievements in your past roles and manage to make them quantifiable.
• Mention your top soft and hard skills. List any skills you have that are relevant to the job you’re applying for in a seperate section. 
• Keep your education section short and concise. Unless you’re an entry-level candidate with little-to-no work experience, keep your education section short and to the point. 
• Leverage optional sections like “Languages,” “Certifications,” or “Hobbies and Interests.” Fill up the rest of your resume space with optional sections that can highlight your strengths and qualifications as a candidate (e.g. foreign languages you speak, certifications you’ve obtained over the years, or your hobbies and interests).

3 Examples of Resume Formats 

#1. reverse chronological resume format.

This resume format highlights your experience and key professional achievements by listing your latest position and acquired skills first. It’s the most popular resume format among recruiters and the one we advise job seekers to use in 99% of cases. 

#2. Functional Resume Format

A functional resume , also known as the skill-based resume, is a resume format that focuses on your professional skill test as opposed to work experience. You’re better off using a functional resume if you’re a recent graduate with no work experience, if you’re switching careers, or if you have a long employment gap . 

#3. Hybrid Resume Format

A combination resume combines the two traditional resume formats: the reverse-chronological resume and the functional resume.

As such, this format places emphasis on a candidate’s skills and work experience. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Examples

1. Are resume examples helpful?

Resume examples are helpful for several reasons. For starters, they can inspire you to write an A+ resume that meets the industry’s requirements. 

Also, resume examples can show you the best practices for listing your work experience and achievements, can guide you through your resume formatting and can help you understand exactly what the end result should look like.

2. How were these resume examples created?

All our resume examples and resume templates were created in full collaboration with industry-leading HR professionals.

This means that they meet all job market requirements, are modern and impactful, and meet recruiters’ standards worldwide.

3. What if I can’t find a resume example for my job?

While we’ve tried to list as many resume examples as possible for different jobs across several industries, it might happen that you can’t find the resume example that perfectly matches your needs. 

If that’s the case, you can check out our guide on how to write a resume , and learn to create an effective resume regardless of industry.

4. What is the best resume format in 2024?

The reverse-chronological format is still the best resume format in 2024. It remains the most widely used and preferred format by employers and recruiters alike. In this format, you list your work experience in reverse chronological format, starting with your most recent position and working backward.

This format showcases our most recent and relevant experience, making it easier for employers to see our career progression and accomplishments. 

5. Are these resume examples free? 

Yes, most of these resume examples can be used for free in the Basic account, while there is also a selection of templates included in the Premium account. All of them though can be tested for free in our editor. 

6. Do you also have cover letter examples?

Yes, we have an entire article dedicated to cover letter examples for different fields and jobs. Not just that, but you can also find tips on how to write a great cover letter and an FAQ section to answer any question you may have. 

7. Should my resume and cover letter match?

Yes, having a cover letter that’s consistent with your resume in terms of style, tone, and content can be a plus for your overall job application. In a nutshell, a matching resume and cover letter can increase your chances of getting an interview by demonstrating your professionalism, attention to detail, and suitability for the role. 

Conclusion 

And that’s a wrap!

We hope the examples and guides provided in this article can help you create a powerful and effective resume that highlights your unique qualifications and experiences. 

Whether you're a recent graduate, a mid-career employee, or a seasoned professional, there are tips and templates here to help you create a compelling resume for any job.

For more career advice, make sure to check out our career blog . 

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Get a FREE Executive Resume Template to help you improve your resume.

Resume Writing Tips

What your resume should look like in 2023 (with examples & templates).

Learning what your resume should look like in 2023 isn’t just a matter of aesthetics.

Hiring data shows there’s an average of 200 applicants per job opening. Some researchers say that figure may be closer to 500 candidates , depending on the position.

I share these figures not to scare you, but to highlight your stiff competition.

Your resume is your best chance to make a powerful first impression on hiring teams and recruiters. These decision-makers are inundated with well-qualified applicants as soon as they post a job.

And to make matters worse, eye-tracking studies reveal they only spend 7.4 seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to read it in its entirety or move on to the next one.

That’s not a lot of time to capture and excite readers about your value.

So in this post, I’ll highlight exactly what your resume should look like in 2023 to stand out, engage readers, and boost your chances of landing an interview.

What Your Resume Should Look Like In 2023: 5 Must-Haves + Examples

An attractive, high-performing resume immediately piques a reader’s interest. It subtly draws them down the page to learn why you’re the candidate they’re looking for.

So every resume in 2023 should incorporate these five elements to achieve that goal:

1. An Updated, Modern Design

A traditional resume format (think: chronological order, bullet points, etc.) won’t give you a leg-up on your competition in 2023. Using one may even hold you back.

See, hiring managers tune out when one of those stale resume templates lands on their desks for the umpteenth time. These boring resumes don’t excite or connect with readers. So your resume could be passed over in that brief 7.4-second scan before it’s even read.

That’s why it’s so important to freshen up the look of your resume with an updated, modern resume template like this one:

Want to use this resume template? Click this link purchase it and start customizing this template (or any others in this article) now.

Unlike a traditional resume template, the one above builds a personal connection with readers by introducing and showcasing your value first. A quick scan of the top half provides them with a snapshot of your areas of expertise and core competencies, two very attractive “hooks” to hiring teams.

Readers will then feel compelled to learn where you honed those skills. So the bottom half of this resume template helps organize your career achievements in an engaging, eye-appealing way. 

Rather than reading like a bland job description, each point should back up your skill set while proving your track record of success.

Anyone reading your resume formatted with a modern template like this will know precisely who you are and the value you’ll deliver, which is the ultimate goal.

2. Clear Sections To Highlight Your Best Features

Resumes that look like one giant block of text are intimidating. They tell hiring teams they’ll need to spend time and effort to mine for the intel they’re looking for. And with hundreds of other resumes vying for their attention, they’ll probably just pass on doing so.

That’s why most modern resume templates are divided into sections with clear, distinct headers. This makes your resume easier to scan and read, not to mention far more enjoyable for busy hiring managers.

The resume template above does a fantastic job of breaking up a resume into bite-sized chunks of information. The example below takes this concept a step further:

The highlights and expertise section in this resume template sits in a blue box to draw the reader’s eyes and attention. This is like telling hiring teams, “Hey! Come check this out!”

So think of your resume as a cheat sheet for hiring managers and recruiters rather than a dossier.

Your resume headings and sections will create an organized outline of your qualifications. Then these call-out boxes can be used to show off your best features, as they’re likely one of the first things hiring managers will notice during their initial scan.

3. Strategically-Placed White Space and Tight Copy

Often times, candidates are so focused on adding every little detail to their resume that it becomes too crammed to read. Headings and call-out boxes can help with this problem. But nothing works quite as well as more white space.

White space, or the places in your resume without words or formatting, adds breathing room to your resume . It prevents a resume from appearing jam-packed and hard to read.

A resume with well-defined sections naturally creates more white space, like this resume template :

Aim for short copy to add more white space to your resume . Break up any big chunks of text to make reading less overwhelming and easier for the eyes.

Your resume is like a garden. You don’t want wordy sentences hiding your highlights and achievements like weeds overrunning a beautiful flower bed. 

Prune your copy, and you’ll easily add more white space to your resume and draw attention to your best selling points simultaneously.

4. A Bold Pop of Color

If you really want to stand out and catch someone’s attention, a pop of bold color on your resume is a must. But this doesn’t mean you should haphazardly throw a rainbow of color wherever you want.

When done strategically, as this example does, color can be used to add emphasis, contrast, and personality. It can also help break up the sea of black text on your resume.

Want to use this resume template? Click this link to customize this template or any others in this article now .

Though a pop of color can help your resume stand out and make a memorable first impression, colors that are too bright or off-putting will do so for the wrong reasons. Opt for deeper, saturated shades, so your resume will be legible in person and on-screen.

5. A Clear, Easy-to-Read Font and Formatting

It’s essential to think about the font you choose for your resume .

Anything “cutesy” will likely be regarded as unprofessional. Likewise, a font that’s too light or too bold may also be difficult to read.

The best fonts to use on a resume include Serif and Sans Serif fonts, such as Times New Roman, Georgia, Verdana, and Arial.

As for the font size, stick to 10-14 points (10-12 for regular text and 12-14 for headings and subheadings).

This template offers a great example of resume text formatting:

On a similar note, be sure to emphasize the right areas, not everything . Only use bold or italics to draw attention to your top achievements, companies you’ve worked for, and other notable points according to the role.

Ready To Update Your Resume for 2023?

Now that you know the must-have ingredients for a high-performing resume, it’s time to put these tips to good use.

Incorporating today’s must-have elements will give your resume a fresh upgrade for 2023 and help you connect with hiring teams and recruiters.

Even better news?

If you use one of the resume templates shared in this guide, you’ll ace this task in half the time. Just purchase and download the one that fits your needs best, plug in your information where prompted, and voila! 

You’ll have a modern, professional resume ready to send out in a matter of minutes instead of spending all day reformatting your current one.

Click this link to learn more about the resume templates featured in this article. Psst! You’ll also find a free executive resume template download on our resources page.

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About the author

Jessica hernandez, president, ceo & founder of great resumes fast.

Hi, I’m Jessica. I started this company back in 2008 after more than a decade directing hiring practices at Fortune 500 companies.

What started as a side hustle (before that was even a word!) helping friends of friends with their resumes has now grown into a company that serves hundreds of happy clients a year. But the personal touch? I’ve kept that.

You might have seen me featured as a resume expert in publications like Forbes, Fast Company, and Fortune. And in 2020, I was honored to be named as a LinkedIn Top Voice of the year!

I’m so glad you’re here, and I can’t wait to help you find your next perfect-fit position!

This is very well-detailed content. I highly appreciate your work. Thank you for sharing your ideas!

Hi Jessica,

As I was looking to give my resume a fresh, new style for 2023, I came across your article. I kid you not, I have been styling my resume like this for the last 3 years! I am an independent career coach–would you be interested in hiring a partner?

I’m not kidding.

I found these resume formats to be reader friendly and they target what potential employers want to see quickly. It allows the reader to focus on the accomplishments beyond the day to day duties.

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More From Forbes

The best resume formats for candidates in 2023.

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Man writing resume and in home office with laptop.

You find a job you like. You decide to create or update your resume and hit "apply." Weeks or months pass, and you hear nothing back from the recruiter or employer. Did you use the right resume format to get your message across, that you are the best candidate for the job? What could you have done wrong?

Not all resume formats are created equal, so it's important that you identify early on, which layout you are going to use to present your experience, qualifications, and skills in the best possible light.

We're all familiar with the standard chronological resume format—the kind where you begin with a short paragraph summarizing your key candidate highlights and then proceed to outline your relevant work experience in reverse chronological order. This is the template most commonly advocated for, as it is most widely used and favored by employers.

But what if you face the dilemma of having little to no relevant experience, or have had a long career break or multiple gaps in employment history? How do you prove that you're an exceptional candidate without reverting to your painfully odd chronological resume?

Welcome to the functional resume!

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, how to write a functional resume.

Typing new resume on laptop

With the functional resume layout, the focus is more on your transferable skills and core competencies to meet the requirements of the role, than the conventional work experience.

Before you start writing, you need to first study out the job description and pull out the competencies listed in the "Person Specification" or similar section. Identify your transferable skills from this list, and pinpoint specific examples of experiences where you have demonstrated these qualities.

You also need to ensure that the skills listed in your functional resume are relevant, and are a decent combination of technical skills and soft skills.

As you start creating your resume, begin with your contact information, relevant portfolio links, and a professional summary.

Next, list out core skills relevant to the role—and provide a short summary for each, of where you have implemented these skills, including any success metrics or positive results as well.

Following this, list out your work experiences including employer, job title, and dates worked, without going into detail about your responsibilities. This should be listed in reverse chronological order, just as you would with a standard chronological resume.

Insert a section for your education and professional development certificates, and finally, include volunteer experience or other significant projects that are relevant.

Pros and cons of a functional resume format

Before you start creating a functional resume, here are a few points to consider:

Functional resumes are not compatible with ATS systems. This means that applicant tracking software cannot detect the key information it needs when a recruiter is scanning through your resume, due to the unconventional layout.

Therefore, if you really need to use one, be sure to send it in a way that guarantees that it is read by an actual human, for example, sending via email or a LinkedIn message.

Hiring manager and candidate reviewing resume in an office

Another important factor to consider is that most hiring managers prefer the traditional chronological layout to the functional skills-based resume. This is because it is straight-forward and easier to scan through to obtain key information about places you've worked, experiences and achievements for each, and how long you've worked for each of your employers.

Hence, although it highlights your skills, opting in for a functional resume may sometimes hurt your chances of successfully landing the job.

One way to navigate this issue is to use a combination resume, also known as a hybrid resume layout. This includes your professional summary and detailed core competencies at the top, but just not as detailed to the extent that you would see in a functional format. It then lists out previous work history in the same way a chronological resume would.

This makes for a fantastic option if you are pivoting your career and have work experience that is irrelevant, but do not wish to give the impression that you've never worked at all.

So what is the best resume layout to use?

If you're applying to roles that are directly aligned with your industry and experience, use the traditional resume format.

If you have little to no experience, or have gaps in career history, use the functional resume, but with extreme caution and care.

However, the most preferred option is to use a combination resume, which will reduce red flags for employers, be easy to scan, demonstrate consistency and a solid work background, and at the same time bridge the gap between where you are now and where you desire to be in your career.

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Resume Trends To Follow in 2024

Some resume advice is timeless … but not all of it. Here’s a list of the current resume trends worth following, including our top resume tips for 2024 and beyond.

a year ago   •   7 min read

The job market is changing more rapidly than ever, which means that resume trends seem to be coming (and going) faster than ever. So, which trends are worth following — and which ones are better off ignored?

We’ve analyzed the current resume trends and landed on 12 resume trends for 2024 that aren’t going anywhere. These are all based on data and backed by recruiters, which means you can bypass the fads and skip straight to the resume tips that’ll actually help you land a job.

Wondering what the best resume tips are for 2024? Here’s a quick overview.

Top 12 resume trends in 2024

In 2024, look out for:

• Sticking with a classic resume format
• Keeping it brief
• Having multiple resumes
• Optimizing your resume with keywords
• Integrating soft skills
• Quantifying your impact with numbers
• Embracing of remote work
• Using AI to help your job search
• ... And leaning into AI-specific skillsets
• Highlighting technical skills
• Addressing the market
• Linking to social media

Let’s take a more in-depth look at each of these trends, including what they mean for you and how to stay ahead of the curve.

Top resume trends for 2024

1. use a simple chronological resume format.

In 2024, we’ve seen a lot of resume trends come and go. Infographics, functional resumes, and online resume builders have all come … and gone. What’s here to stay is the classic, easy to read chronological resume.

When writing a resume, there’s no need to get creative with fonts , images, graphs, tables, or fancy layouts. Instead:

Download a simple ATS-ready resume template

• Stick to default formatting in Google Docs or Microsoft Word
• List your experience in order from most recent to least recent
• Always include your dates of employment
• Use bold, underline, and italics if you need text to stand out
• Export your resume as a PDF to keep your formatting intact

2. Keep your resume short and skimmable

Sometimes, less is more — and that includes on your resume. Most resumes only need to be one page long and include:

• Contact details
• Work experience
• A short section for relevant skills and other information

Most of that should be in bullet point format, too, which means recruiters can quickly skim your resume — and important information is more likely to stand out.

Related: How Long Should a Resume Be?

3. Have multiple versions of your resume

Think you can write a single, perfect resume that you can use to apply to any job? Think again!

One of the best ways to land a job is to tailor your resume, which means you’ll end up having at least a few different variations of the same resume. This could be as simple as adding a resume title or as in-depth as curating which jobs you list when applying for roles in different industries. You can also get help from tools like Targeted Resume , which will check your resume against the target job description and identify specific ways to tailor your resume to that position.

Related: How To Tailor Your Resume To a Job

4. Bypass ATS with resume keywords

If you’re currently applying for jobs, you’ve probably heard of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These are automated scanners that companies use to screen resumes before they hit the desk of a hiring manager.

ATS search your resume for a set list of keywords, which means they’re pretty easy to bypass. The key is to not overdo it — after all, you don’t want a resume so stuffed full of keywords that it gets rejected by the first person to read it. Instead, use a tool like our skills and keywords finder to search for relevant keywords and scatter them naturally throughout your resume.

Related: How To Beat Applicant Tracking Systems in a Few Easy Steps

5. Highlight transferable skills

These days, nobody expects to stay in the same job for their whole career — the average tenure of a new job is less than five years , which means that the average person will hold around 12 jobs in their lifetime. With that in mind, it makes sense to build your resume around skills that you can take with you — in other words, transferable (or soft) skills.

According to a recent breakdown of job listing, the top soft skills recruiters are looking for include:

• Communication
• Customer service
• Time management and scheduling
• Project management
• Analytical thinking
• Working independently
• Interpersonal skills and collaboration
• Flexibility
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Multitasking

Related: Here's How To Include Soft Skills on Your Resume

6. Quantify your impact with concrete metrics

The easiest way to show the actual impact you had in a role is to use numbers in your bullet points . This allows hiring managers to get a better feel for how you’re likely to perform in the new role. It’s also a good way to stand out in a sea of applicants, as the vast majority of resumes don’t fully quantify their accomplishments.

Here’s an okay bullet point:

Hired, coached and led sales team.

By adding more details, we can make it better:

Hired, coached and led sales team of five to make sales calls, make client visits and close deals.

And by using metrics to show results, we create an impactful, measurable accomplishment :

Hired, coached and led sales team of five to make sales calls, make client visits and close deals; generated $10M in sales contracts.

Related: How To Quantify Your Resume

7. Get on board with remote work

You don’t have to be looking for remote work to know that it’s everywhere — and you shouldn’t expect this to go away in 2024. Job boards like FlexJobs and Remote OK cater specifically to people looking for remote work, while even the larger job boards have hundreds of thousands of remote jobs listed.

Even if you aren’t working remotely, you’re likely to be dealing with people who are, which means that highlighting experience managing remote workers or your ability to use remote tools like Slack and Zoom is always a plus.

Related: The Complete Guide To Listing Remote Work on a Resume

8. Use AI to your advantage

In 2024, it seems like Artificial Intelligence is everywhere. Employers are obviously using it — but so can job seekers.

AI-powered tools like Score My Resume work in a similar way to ATS, by analyzing your resume and providing actionable steps to improve it . Think of it kind of like a Grammarly for resumes — instead of just fixing your spelling and grammar, it can check for job-specific keywords, resume and bullet point length , inconsistencies, word choice, and any filler or buzzwords you can safely eliminate.

9. Learn to work with AI, too

If you believe the naysayers, AI is about to take over and automate just about every job imaginable. Which may be true ... but in that case, who runs the AI?

The answer is: People do. If AI has started invading your industry, look at expanding your skillset to include AI-specific skills, like AI-assisted coding or ChatGPT prompt writing .

10. Prove that you’re competent with technology

The technology trend doesn't stop with AI. Even in low-tech fields, a little tech savvy goes a long way. Being able to troubleshoot problems and use common technologies can make the difference between hitting the ground running and struggling to keep up.

Looking to make the next move in your career — or to change fields entirely? 2024 is an excellent time to start developing in-demand skills like:

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Software as a Service (SaaS)
• Cybersecurity
• Data analysis
• Cloud computing
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Augmented reality and virtual reality (AR and VR)
• Digital marketing
• User interface and user experience design (UI and UX)
• Programming languages like HTML, CSS, Java, and SQL

11. Write a market-driven resume

This may sound gimmicky, but all it really means is a) keeping up-to-date with trends in hiring in general and your field in particular, and b) tweaking your resume to address these trends.

If that sounds calculated or impersonal, remember this: Your resume isn't about you, it's about the job you want. Instead of trying to include a complete history of who you are and what you've done, create a resume with a purpose — one that addresses specific needs in your industry or company and explains how you can fill those needs.

12. Update and link your LinkedIn

Whether you’re always on social media or not a huge fan, there’s no doubt that it’s become an important part of job searching. LinkedIn alone is home to over 800 million users, including over 58 million registered companies.

Add a link to your LinkedIn profile, GitHub, or portfolio to the top of your resume (next to your contact details).

A trend we're seeing in 2024: Companies are recruiting more and more via LinkedIn so ATS now provide LinkedIn integrations, where experience can be imported via LinkedIn. So, keep your profile up to date and make sure it reflects skills on your resume.

If your LinkedIn needs a little revamp — or a complete overhaul — LinkedIn Review can provide personalized tips on how to optimize your profile and generate up to five times as many leads.

By the way, it's worth mentioning — keep your other social profiles, like Instagram or Facebook, on private when you're recruiting if you have any content you don't want recruiters seeing.

Related: How To Make Your LinkedIn Stand Out

Resume trends to avoid

Not all trends are created equal — so which ones should you avoid? Here's a list of gimmicks to steer clear of:

• Functional resumes. These are often touted as a way to hide a spotty work history or lack of experience, but in reality, they do the opposite — not listing dates on your resume or using a skills-based format just makes recruiters wonder what you're trying to hide.
• Infographics. These had their moment, but arguably were never a great idea in the first place (for a start, ATS can't read images). Skip the fancy graphics and stick to a classic, text-based resume.
• Resume objectives. This one's so old that some people are trying to make it new again. Resume summaries are different and can actually be useful, but an objective adds nothing to your candidacy. Skip it.
• Gimmicky resumes. It might sound fun to have your resume printed on a beer label, a t-shirt, or a QR code , but the people actually making hiring decisions aren't looking for fun — they're looking for a simple document clearly listing your work experience, skills, and education.

Remember that trends aren't everything — the most important thing when it comes to writing a resume is clearly communicating information. Anything that gets in the way of that is an instant "no."

• Career Advice

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• Resume Format
• Resume Examples
• Resume Templates
• How to Write a Resume
• Best Resume Writers in the USA

Resume 2023

A resume is a comprehensive, up-to-date summary of an individual’s background and accomplishments, typically used to demonstrate their qualifications when applying for jobs. This document contains an organized overview of relevant facts related to the job seeker’s education, soft and hard skills, experience, and other qualified attributes.

• All Templates
• Classic Templates
• Creative Templates
• Infographic Templates
• Modern Templates
• Newest Templates
• One Page Templates
• Professional Templates
• Quick Templates
• Simple Templates
• Unique Templates
• All Resume Formats
• Chronological Format
• Reverse-Chronological Formats
• Functional Formats
• Hybrid (Combination) Formats
• All Resume Examples
• Administrator Examples
• Construction Examples
• Customer Service Examples
• Engineering Examples
• Legal Examples
• Nurse Examples
• Sales Examples
• Security Examples
• Teacher Examples

About Resume2023.com

• Resume 2023 FAQ

Free Resume Templates 2023

Provide a standardized format and layout for organizing and presenting the content. They can be created using various software programs and are intended to help create curriculum vitae with minimal effort.

Classic Resume Templates

Traditional or basic formats that are easy to read. They tend to use a clean and minimal design, with headings and sections that are easy to follow.

Creative Resume Templates

Traditional or basic formats that are eye-catching. They tend to use a clean and minimal design, with headings and sections that are easy to follow. A must-have for a CV in the creative industry includes a portfolio.

Infographic Resume Templates

Use visual elements and graphics to present information more visually appealingly. They often highlight specific experiences more interactively and engagingly.

Modern Resume Templates

Newest Resume Templates

Often incorporate the latest trends and may include features such as clean lines, minimalistic design, and a focus on showcasing an essential facts about the candidate.

One Page Resume Templates

Fit all the necessary information onto a single page. They are helpful for those with limited work experience or when they can be summarized on a single page.

Professional Resume Templates

Typically, a more formal and traditional design may include sections for an objective, work history, education, and other appropriate details. They are used by professionals in more conservative industries or individuals with a lot of work experience who want to present themselves polishedly.

Quick Resume Templates

Typically have a simple layout. They often include pre-written content, making it easy to insert information.

Simple Resume Templates

Prioritize content over aesthetics and use a minimalistic approach to layout. They provide a concise overview of a candidate’s abilities, competence, and education without any distractions or elaborate design elements.

Unique Resume Templates

Help to stand out and be memorable to potential employers. They may have unusual or eye-catching layouts. They may incorporate graphics, images, or other visual elements in a method that is not typical in more traditional ones.

Resume Format 2023

There are three current resume formats in 2023 –  reverse- chronological, functional, and combination (hybrid). We recommend using a the first one in almost all cases. This is because job experience is the top hiring factor for 92% of recruiters, according to a recent study by Jobvite. The main benefits of a reverse-chronological format:

• It is the most popular and helpful format among recruiters;
• Applicant tracking systems, familiar to recruiters, easily process it;
• All job seekers can use it.

Also, saving files in .pdf or .docx formats is highly recommended.

Chronological Resume Format

A chronological CV format is considered an excellent decision because it is easy to read, understand, and follow. It presents a clear and concise overview of your work experience, and qualifications. It lists your experiences in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position and working backwards. This format is especially useful if you have a solid and consistent work history in the same field or if you are looking to move up in the same field.

Many recruiters prefer it because it gives them a comprehensive understanding of your career progression and the expertise you’ve acquired throughout your experience.

Overall, the Chronological CV template is a well-organized method to present your qualifications and experience, making it an excellent choice for many job applicants.

Reverse-Chronological Resume Format

The reverse-chronological is a CV format which is widely used format among recruiters.

It’s one of the latest CV format for 2023 because:

• Emphasizes your recent competence.
• Allows recruiters to see your progression and track your career growth quickly.
• It is easy to understand, presenting information logically and chronologically.
• It show any promotions, responsibilities, or achievements you have earned in your recent roles.
• It is commonly used and expected by most companies, meaning it is more likely to be understood and appreciated.

It is crucial to note that, depending on the job or the industry you are applying to, other formats, like Functional, Combination, or Targeted formats, may be more appropriate. It’s always nice to tailor your CV to the job you are applying forI

Functional Resume Format

Functional CVs are organized by abilities and competences rather than by job titles and dates of employment. This format allows the candidate to focus on how to benefit the employer.

The functional curriculum vitae format typically includes several sections, such as:

• A section on expertise can include both technical and soft skills.
• A section on  competences that  can include paid and unpaid work, volunteer experiences, and coursework.

One of the main benefits is that it can hide gaps in employment history. Because the resume is organized by abilities rather than job titles and dates of employment, it can be more difficult to discern when the candidate is unemployed.

It could also be helpful for job seekers transitioning to a career. By focusing on the  competences  appropriate to the new field, rather than titles and duties in a previous field, the candidate can demonstrate how their abilities are transferable to the new position.

Combination Resume Format

There are several reasons why to use a combination CV format:

A combination format is versatile and can be used for different occupations, such as entry-level, mid-career.

A combination format typically includes a section dedicated to showcasing your achievements, which can help you stand out from other candidates.

A combination curriculum vitae is easy to read and navigate, making it more likely that hiring managers will take the time to review your application.

It can be easily tailored to show the most suitable expertise to the title you are applying for, making it more likely that you will be considered.

Resume Examples 2023

Here you could find resume examples demonstrating how to effectively present data to pay the recruiter’s attention. Our mission is to provide inspiration and guidance for creating an effective resume, so applicants will learn on how to edit and structure their documents.

Administrator CV Examples

Highlight candidates’ ability to manage and organize resources, communicate effectively, and lead teams. Perfect for a project manager and executives. Below are some amazing resume examples for administrators:

Here is some statistics from the  Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)  on administrative and office support professions in the United States as of May 2022:

Average Salary : The average hourly wage for administrative and office support was $20.43, which translates to an average annual salary of $42,490.

Number of Vacancies : There were approximately 4 million administrative and office support vacancies in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Administrators : The state with the highest average administrative and office support wage was the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $26.68 per hour, or $55,540 per year. Other states with high average wages for administrative and office support occupations include Massachusetts, California, New Jersey, and Washington.

Construction CV Examples

Specifically tailored to the construction industry. They highlight experience of individuals seeking employment in construction-related fields, such as building and construction, carpentry, and engineering.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) on construction industry in the United States as of May 2022:

Average Salary : The average hourly wage for construction workers was $23.39, which translates to an average annual salary of $48,680.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 7.4 million construction propositions in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Construction Workers : The state with the highest average wage for construction workers was the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $33.24 per hour, or $69,180 per year. Other states with high average wages for construction workers include Alaska, New York, Hawaii, and Massachusetts.

Customer Service CV Examples

Showcase the mastery required to successfully perform tasks such as communicating with customers, resolving issues, and maintaining a positive and demeanor. They may include duties such as answering phone calls, responding to emails and online inquiries, handling customer complaints, and processing orders and returns.

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports on customer service positions that in the United States as of May 2022:

Average Salary : The average hourly wage for customer service representatives was $16.78, which translates to an average annual salary of $34,840.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 2.6 million customer service representative positions in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Customer Service Representatives : The state with the highest average wage for customer service representatives was the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $20.80 per hour, or $43,320 per year. Other states with high average wages for customer service representatives include Alaska, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Washington.

Engineering CV Examples

Showcase the candidate’s technical expertise and competences in electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering. They may include details about the candidate’s enlightenment  and training in engineering.

Engineering is also one of the high-paying industries. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that:

Average Salary : The average annual salary for engineers was $92,830.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 2.7 million engineering vacancies in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Engineers : The state with the highest average wage for engineers was the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $122,820 per year. Other states with high average wages for engineers include California, Alaska, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

Legal CV Examples

Tailored for applicants seeking employment in the legal field. They typically highlight the mastery, and expertise to the legal profession. They may also include the applicant’s membership in niche organizations, any awards or accolades they have received, and coursework or certifications.

BLS report on May 2022 states that for legal professions:

Average Salary : The average annual salary for lawyers was $144,230.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 778,000 lawyer propositions in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Lawyers : The state with the highest average wage for lawyers was the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $189,560 per year. Other states with high average wages for lawyers include California, New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

Nurse CV Examples

Include the nurse’s academic background, licensure, and proficiency in similar positions. They also highlight specific areas of expertise, such as critical care, pediatrics, or surgical nursing.

Fresh statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for nursing professions:

Average Salary : The average annual salary for registered nurses was $75,330.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 3.5 million registered nurse vacancies in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Registered Nurses : The state with the highest average wage for registered nurses was California, with an average wage of $102,700 per year. Other states with high average wages for registered nurses include Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Alaska.

Sales CV Examples

Demonstrate the proficiency of individuals who have worked in sales. They often have achievements such as a meeting or exceeding sales quotas, building and maintaining customer relationships, and using various sales techniques to close deals.

Facts about sales sector provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

Average Salary : The average annual salary for sales workers was $44,180.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 15 million sales worker positions in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Sales Workers : The state with the highest average wage for sales workers was the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $61,810 per year. Other states with high average wages for sales workers include Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Colorado.

Security CV Examples

Show the proficiency of individuals who work in the security field. These resumes typically include the candidate’s background, training, and work history in security-related roles, as well as any  certifications or licenses.

Additional statistics about security employment in the US market:

Average Salary : The average hourly wage for security guards was $15.24, which translates to an average annual salary of $31,620.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 1.2 million security guard propositions in the United States as of May 2020.

State with Highest Salary for Security Guards : The state with the highest average wage for security guards was the District of Columbia, with an average wage of $23.53 per hour, or $49,000 per year. Other states with high average wages for security guards include Alaska, New York, Massachusetts, and Hawaii.

Teacher CV Examples

Demonstrate a teacher’s proficiency and qualifications. These patterns can serve as a guide for individuals who are seeking employment as a teacher. They may include data about the teacher’s background, areas of expertise, and any suitable certifications or licenses.

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shares that in 2022, for teaching jobs:

Average Salary : The average annual salary for preschool and kindergarten teachers was $54,530, while the average salary for elementary, middle, and high school teachers was $61,660.

Number of  Vacancies : There were approximately 4.6 million elementary, middle, and high school teachers in the United States as of May 2020, while there were approximately 220,000 preschool and kindergarten teachers.

State with Highest Salary for Teachers : The state with the highest average wage for elementary, middle, and high school teachers was New York, with an average wage of $79,620 per year. Other states with high average teacher wages include California, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Alaska.

Why a Good Resume 2023 is a Must-Have

CV 2023 is a comprehensive history of individual’s background typically used to demonstrate their qualifications when applying for jobs. This document contains an organized overview of suitable data related to the job seeker’s education, expetrtise, and other qualified attributes.

Most likely, we’re trying to create the best resumes during a transition or when people ask us about a CV. You are not even thinking about it until the hiring manager asks you to send it via e-mail. And after all, you understand how essential is to have updated resume. A professional resume must be written following two main rules. 

First, it should tell about an expertise throughout your career. The second one – should let you to stand out from the crowd. Why is the second rule also important? If you undesrtand how to catch the attention and how to sell your candidacy in the most favorable light, you have a key to the desired job offer in your mailbox.

Resume Trends 2023

Your resume 2023 is often highly underrated, but first impressions count, and humans are very visual. So while content is king, and what you say and the words you use within your CV will always be the most meaningful.

Proper formatting allows you to come across as exceptionally well put together, helps to elevate your brand, and gets decision-makers and recruiters to sit up and pay attention straight away. It’s a taster of the level of excellence that you can include into presenting your work and communicating something.

Also, whether you send it out to your network or apply online, you must be confident about this document. You need to feel amazing when you’re sending in. So if the content’s impressive and looks sharp and sleek, that’s the result you’ll get.

These are the features you need to assess when looking for the proper CV format:

• Layout: What layout helps you create a fabulous resume that delivers all the data you need for a competitive application?
• Presentation: What sort of look and presentation is the best in your case?
• Success rate: Which format of CV would you say is more likely to be successful and give you more confidence?

How Good Resume 2023 Should Look Like

There’s so much fear-mongering about the applicant tracking system, and it’s often used by frustrated job seekers as potentially a reason or a scapegoat for why things aren’t going their way. That might sound harsh, but “career coaches” are giving outdated advice, saying that the applicant tracking systems are the reason your document is not getting through. 

An applicant tracking system, 90% of the time, is just a project management software for recruiters that walk your application through the different stages of the process.

Most people don’t realize that data is essential for the applicant tracking system. Scanning documents and your CV are a part of the game. Still, if you’re saying that you don’t have the right to work or put in your salary expectation, that’s way out of the salary expectation of this role, which automatically rejects you.

Resume Fonts

The ATS doesn’t have a font preference as long as it’s readable. It’s fine as long as it’s not like script font. And it’s not reading and rejecting your resume alone automatically. When job hunting, it’s always crucial to design a resume that a human will read, but remember that the ATS isn’t as big a deal as you think. And if it’s going to read or pass your CV and spit it out, usually it does that.

Resume Length

If it’s a two-page document, but it’s full of fluff and cliches and information that’s nice to know about you, but it’s not targeted or strategic in line with the job post, then there’s a waste of space. If you have a one-page resume, like one of those pretty Etsy templates with just a few headings, main points, and light on the content, or so crammed sample with size eight font because you’ve tried to fit everything onto one page, that’s going to hurt your chances as well. So you don’t want to do that either.

It depends on what you must add to this document to convince recruiters. It’s a teaser trailer, not the feature film, the feature film is you in the interview, but it’s what you need to have in there to convince them to give you an interview.

You want to have a decent amount of information, but every line that recruiters skim should make them think, that’s great for this. Remember, this is a pitch document, and it’s highly tailored. You should keep it relatively concise while still being robust and impactful.

With Photo or Without

In many Anglo-Saxon countries, the UK, the US, and New Zealand, people wouldn’t go with a photo because they go a substantial cultural and institutionally focus on anti-biased, anti-discrimination. It can even be illegal in some states to review a resume with a photo because of anti-discrimination laws. And if you reject the person or if the person gets the position, you can’t win, so sometimes, if they see a photo, and either get removed by software or they don’t consider it. 

So if the norm is not to put a photo. In some countries like France, for example, you must place a shot, whether you’re going for a job, you put a picture because that’s the norm of the country, and it would be very sort of bizarre if you didn’t. 

Photo in Social Media

A recruiter can Google you, and they can find out what you look like on LinkedIn. Ensure yourself that you’ve got an excellent LinkedIn profile photo. But still, no image if the norm in your country is no photo. You could use a photo if it feels more industry appropriate. If you’re going for a creative marketing agency or if you’re going for a digital marketing role in social media for a cool startup, then a photo is acceptable, more appropriate, and could add some possession to your document. 

You should always use a standard chronological CV design layout. You probably have heard about the functional resume and competency-based CVs and stuff like that. But you should keep it easy for the recruiter to get the necessary parts quickly. So what are must-have components?

You definitely must have a profile or a summary section. This is about three sentences or bullet points about you. It’s your brand. It’s who you are, what you do, and how you do it differently, backed up with an accomplishment point wherever possible and your vision for your career, where you are going, and how this role fits into that. This area is one of the most strategic areas on your document, allowing recruiters to connect the dots very quickly.

Trending Resume Design

Here are some critical points about design elements for a 2023 resume:

Color: Use a color scheme, such as black and white or neutral tones, to keep your resume looking clean. Avoid using bright or distracting colors.

Pictures: It’s generally not recommended to include a picture on your resume, as it can detract from the content and may not be suitable to the profession you’re applying for.

Fonts: Choose a font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Avoid using overly decorative or fancy fonts, as they can be difficult to read. Stick to one or two fonts styles to maintain consistency throughout your resume.

Layout: Use white space, bullet points, and headings to make your resume visually appealing and easy to scan. Avoid cluttering the page with too much text or graphics.

Consistency: the design elements you use, such as CV style and size, are consistent throughout your resume.

By keeping these design elements in mind, you can create a well-designed resume that showcases your abilities in the best possible light.

You can put strategic keywords that sum up your zones of genius underneath the profile area. What would your tags be if you were tagged as a person? These are your top skills, and they also help with the ATS, the applicant tracking side of things, and they very quickly let the recruiter understand who you are and what you have to offer. You can also add a compelling tagline underneath your name at the top of your CV. It’s like a signature; your unique selling proposition into a sentence.

The following central area you want to be front and center on your document is your experience section. This is what comes next if you’re doing a one-column layout. You give it the most real estate if you’re doing a two-column. It’s usually all down the right-hand side, while the other details are on the left-hand column. It’s very much front and center. But there are two exceptions to this. 

Firstly, if you’re a fresh graduate with no work experience, just so you’ve only done internships and bits and pieces, you would your academic background first. If you are a working professional, have already graduated, and have already been in the workforce for at least a year, you would have the experience come first. 

Career Changes

The other exception to this rule is career changes. With career changes, you would start with the profile section. Then you would go into an area with your core strengths or your critical skills, the transferable  abilities  that you can bring with you as a person from one industry to the next that is going to enable your success within your next role, your next profession, your next sector, even if you’ve never done it before. 

So that upper third might be longer. You might end up taking almost half the page to explain your profile and just to include some of competencies that you are bringing to the table before you get to your experience section because what’s going to be essential is who you are, not exactly what you’ve done because you’ve never actually done the role that you’re applying for. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you put on a cover letter.

• Your contact information and the date
• The contact information of the employer or hiring manager
• A greeting, such as “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name]”
• An introduction which include your qualifications and the reason for your interest in the position.
• A few bullet points to summarize your relevant abilities.
• A closing statement that thanks the employer for considering your application and includes your contact information again
• A professional closing, such as “Sincerely” followed by your name and signature (if sending a hard copy)

What are the main resume formatting rules?

The main formatting rules:

• Use an easy-to-read font like Arial or Times New Roman.
• Please keep it one or two pages in length.
• Use headings and subheadings to organize your content and make it easy for the reader to find what they need.
• Use bullet points to make your CV easy to read, and avoid long paragraphs of text.
• Use action words and phrases, such as “managed,” “created,” “improved,” and so on, to describe your responsibilities.

Is it worth paying a resume writer?

Whether or not it is worth paying writers depends on your circumstances and needs. They have expertise about what should be included in a CV, but they can’t speed up your job search process. 

Should I save my resume as PDF, Word, or Google Docs?

It is generally recommended to save a PDF (Portable Document Format) file. PDFs are a universal format that can be opened on any computer or device, and they maintain the formatting and layout of the document, regardless of the software or operating system used to view it.

What should a CV look like in 2023?

In 2023, it should have an updated, modern design sigh your best features and strategically-placed white space and tight copy. It should also include a bold pop of color and be formatted with a clear, easy-to-read font.

What is the 30-second rule?

The 30-second rule refers to the idea that a hiring manager or recruiter should be able to quickly scan your resume and determine whether you are a good fit in 30 seconds or less. Your document should be well-organized, clearly written, and visually appealing, with essential data prominently displayed.

Is it OK to have a 2, 3, or 5 pages resume?

It is generally acceptable to have a two, or even five-page, depending on your mastery level and the specific occupation requirements you are applying for. Typically, a two-page is appropriate for most job seekers, especially those with around ten years or more of relevant mastery.

What should you not do on a resume?

•  Using an unprofessional email address: Instead of standard email address, create a professional one specifically for job applications.
• Using an unprofessional font or layout: Choose a clean, professional font and use a clear, organized layout to make it easy to read.
• Including personal information: Your CV should focus on your professional qualifications, so leave out personal information such as your age, marital status, or religion.

What are the 3 F’s of resumes?

The 3 F’s refer to three key elements:

• Function: This refers to the purpose of your CV, which is to showcase your skills and comptences in a way that is relevant to the job you are applying for.
• Form: This refers to the formatting and layout, which should be clean, organized, and easy to read.
• Effectiveness: This refers to the overall point, which should effectively communicate your qualifications and persuade the reader to consider you for the position.

By ensuring that your curriculum vitae adheres to all of these elements, you can create a resume tailored to the specific role you are applying for that effectively showcases your skills and proficiency.

Can you show a gap in your CV?

Gaps in your work history can be a common concern for job seekers, but it is generally acceptable to include them as long as you can explain them effectively. According to a survey by Monster, 49% of U.S. employers said that gaps are becoming less of a red flag due to current market conditions.

What is the best font?

Several fonts are commonly recommended for use.

• Arial: This sans-serif font is often used for branding and website or mobile design, making it a good option for those in the creative field or applying for marketing jobs.
• Georgia: This serif font is easy to read.
• Helvetica: This sans-serif font is popular in branding and design and is considered easy to read on screens.
• Tahoma: This sans-serif font is similar to Verdana and is known for its screen-readability.
• Times New Roman: This classic serif font is still popular for resumes, but it is essential to use it in moderation as it can appear outdated.
• Trebuchet: This sans-serif font is known for its readability and is an excellent alternative to Arial or Helvetica.

How many jobs should you mention?

As a general rule, you should include as many jobs on your CV relevant to the position you are applying for as long as you are within the typical 10-15 year limit for work experience. The exact number of jobs you should include on your resume may vary depending on your experience level, but it is generally recommended to have between 3 and 7 positions.

What are the top 5 mistakes?

Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Grammar and punctuation errors: These errors can make you unprofessional and give the impression that you need to be more detail-oriented.
• Failure to communicate knowledge and skills: Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience clearly and concisely.
• Vague job descriptions: Be specific and include concrete illustrations of your accomplishments.
• Using pronouns and articles: Avoid using personal pronouns (such as “I” or “my”) and articles (such as “a” or “the”) in your resume. Instead, focus on using action verbs to describe your responsibilities and achievements.

What are items that should be avoided?

Some personal details are unnecessary to include and may even send the wrong message to a prospective employer. These include:

• Marital status: Your marital status is not relevant to your qualifications or ability to do the job.
• Sexual orientation: This information is irrelevant and could discriminate against you.
• Religious or political affiliations: These details are irrelevant and could discriminate against you.
• Social security number: This information is unnecessary to include on your resume and could potentially lead to identity theft.

What are the four golden rules of CV writing?

Here are the 5 Golden Rules:

• Think Before You Type: Before you start writing your CV, take some time to carefully consider your career goals and the type of job you are applying for. This will help you tailor your CV to the employer’s specific needs.
• Summarize Your Responsibilities: When describing your previous job roles, focus on summarizing your responsibilities rather than listing every task you were responsible for.
• Make Achievements Your Key Area of Focus: Instead of just listing your responsibilities, highlight your achievements and your impact in previous roles.
• Write For Your Reader: Keep in mind that a recruiter will read your CV.

What is the 6-second rule?

According to studies, the average recruiter will scan a document for six seconds before deciding whether the applicant is a good fit for the role. This means that your resume has a concise window of time to make a strong impression and persuade the reader to consider you for the position.

What are the 4 C’s?

To be attractive, you should possess the 4 C’s: creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. These qualities are essential for success in today’s job market.

How can I spice it up?

To spice up your resume:

• Include experience from the past 10-15 years.
• Remove elements that could make your resume outdated, such as addresses, graduation dates, and obsolete software.
• Please keep it to under two pages.
• Ensure consistency in language.

How many bullets should it have?

On a functional template, use bullet points to highlight skills and accomplishments in the professional experience and education sections. Aim for 3-6 bullets per role, focusing on functions pertinent to the job.

What are the red flags?

Unexplained gaps in employment can raise red flags for. These gaps may make them assume you have struggled to secure jobs, indicating potential performance issues or other shortcomings.

What are some tips for writing an outstanding resume?

• Keep it short and to the point.
• Use an original template to make your resume visually appealing.
• Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the results you achieved in previous roles.
• Optimize your text for clarity.
• Use specific, action-oriented, and results-focused language to stand out from other candidates.

What are the seven necessary parts of a resume?

Here are the eight essential sections to include on your resume:

• Header and contact information
• Work experience
• Certifications and licenses
• Awards and honors
• Outside projects

Is it OK to send a CV multiple times?

Avoid submitting the same document and cover letter multiple times for the same position. Doing so may decrease your chances of getting an interview, as it may give the impression that you are desperate or disorganized.

How to check if my CV is ATS-friendly?

You should ensure that it is formatted straightforwardly and uses standard, industry-standard keywords relevant to the profession you are applying for. Avoid using non-standard formatting or graphics, as these can confuse the Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) and make it difficult for the system to parse correctly.

What are the seven parts of a resume in order?

• Contacts: address, phone number, and email address.
• Education: Your degree(s) or certification(s) and the institution(s) you attended.
• Work History: Your previous employment, including job titles, job descriptions, dates of employment, and mainresponsibilities and achievements.
• Skills: A list of hard and soft skills, such as language proficiency, computer skills, and other transferable skills.
• Certifications, publications, and Awards: You have earned any additional qualifications or recognitions.
• References: The contacts of at least two professional references will help your resume stand out.

What are the most common resume mistakes?

• Typos and grammatical errors can make your CV appear unprofessional and indicate a lack of attention to detail.
• Using a generic template can make it look like everyone else’s and make it harder for hiring managers to see what sets you apart from other candidates.
• Lying or exaggerating: Misrepresenting your qualifications can get you into trouble and will likely be discovered during the hiring process.
• Not including keywords: If it doesn’t include the keywords and action verbs relevant to the job, it may not get past the initial screening process by the ATS.

What should I do before applying?

Here are ten steps to take before submitting:

• Read and follow the application instructions carefully.
• Tailor your resume to the job and company.
• Explain your past roles and companies.
• Include technical skills and experience.
• List relevant certifications or training.
• Use action verbs to describe responsibilities and achievements.
• Use industry-specific language.
• Proofread for errors.

How common are resume lies?

A survey found that 78% of job seekers admitted to or would consider misrepresenting themselves on their applications. Another study by CareerBuilder showed that 75% of employers had caught a lie. It’s important to be honest, and transparent during the applying process.

Should you list hobbies?

Including your hobbies can help demonstrate how you’ll fit in with the company culture. Any extracurricular activities that align with the company’s values and culture should be highlighted, as they can be relevant to the role.

What words should never be used?

• Demonstrated success in…
• Proven results…
• Successful/success
• Results-driven/results-oriented
• Excellent communication skills
• Responsible for…
• Duties included
• Seasoned (experienced)

It’s important to be mindful of using buzzwords too frequently or without context, as they can lose their impact if overused. It’s always best to focus on highlighting your specific skills clearly and concisely.

Can employers check your degree?

Including your hobbies can help show how you’ll fit in with the company culture. Any extracurricular activities that align with the company’s values and culture should be included, as they can be relevant to the role.

What three things does a quality resume have?

• Select the best format for your skills: chronological, functional, or combination.
• Use a clean, easy-to-read design.
• Highlight your accomplishments.
• Include your contacts.
• Carefully proofread for errors.

What makes a resume impressive?

• Include current, relevant facts in all sections.
• Attach a well-written cover letter.
• Proofread carefully.
• Be truthful.

Which skill is most attractive to an employer?

The top 5 skills to include:

• Critical thinking and problem-solving.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Professionalism and strong work ethic.
• Oral and written communications skills.
• Leadership.

What text color should I use?

Use a high-contrast color scheme for easy reading: black and white is a classic choice. You can also use a pale background with darker lettering for a visually appealing and readable design. Follow color theory principles to be more professional and appealing.

Should I put my address?

Including your address  is optional. However, it can be helpful in certain situations. If you’re worried about being rejected by an applicant tracking system (ATS), you can include the city and zip code of the employer in your professional summary. Leaving your address off your resume will not disqualify you from consideration.

Should I put my GPA?

Include your GPA in the education section, close to your degree. It’s important to be accurate and truthful about your GPA, rather than adjusting it to attract more attention. Your resume should be honest and transparent.

How to end a resume?

To close out your resume, you can consider adding a line stating that professional references are available upon request. This gives the impression that you have a list of references ready to provide more information about your skills and experiences, and it can be a subtle way to wrap up your resume.

How do I sell myself?

Highlight your most relevant skills, experience, and achievements. This includes focusing on the specific requirements of the job you’re applying for and tailoring your resume to showcase how you meet those requirements. It’s also important to be honest, and not exaggerate your skills or accomplishments. Finally, keep your resume brief and easy to read, using layout that is clear and visually appealing.

What words should I remove?

Avoid using cliches or overly generic language. Instead, focus on specific achievements and skills that make you stand out as a candidate. Use action verbs and quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. Be honest and avoid exaggerating or embellishing your experience.

What makes a terrible CV?

Include specific, measurable achievements to show your impact on your previous employers. This will help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your value to potential employers.

Can it be too cluttered?

To avoid cluttered and messy resumes, it’s important to only include relevant information and eliminate repetitive or unnecessary details. This ensure that your true worth and value are effectively communicated to the reader.

How do I make it ageless?

Focus on highlighting your accomplishments and skills rather than simply listing your job duties. Use metrics to quantify your successes and action verbs to describe your achievements. Avoid cluttering your CV with unnecessary or repetitive information, and use a clear, easy-to-read layout. Be sure to proofread your resume carefully to avoid errors.

How does a 50-year-old+ craft a resume?

A hybrid CV template combines elements of a chronological and functional resume, focusing on your relevant skills while still including your work history in chronological order. This format is useful for older job seekers who want to highlight their skills without drawing attention to their employment dates.

Why do I keep getting rejected?

Typos and errors can quickly disqualify a job applicant. It’s must-have to double-check your resume before submitting it to ensure it is error-free and professional.

Should I put a job I was fired from?

It’s generally best to omit mention of being fired. Instead, focus on your start and end dates for previous jobs without going into detail about why you left. This helps to keep the focus on your skills and qualifications rather than any negative experiences.

Should I put references?

References are not typically included, but if an employer requests, you should be prepared to provide a professional references. This list should include title, company, and contacts of at least two people who can speak to your skills and experience.

What words stand out?

Useful adjectives to describe yourself:

• Resourceful.
• Innovative.
• Passionate.

What is the best time to submit a resume?

To increase your chances of getting noticed by the recipient, send it as soon as possible after finding a job listing. This will help ensure that your application is reviewed before other candidates. If you come across the listing early in the morning or early in the week, consider sending your resume immediately to get a head start on the competition.

Should I mention a 2-week job on my resume?

Don’t do it if you have only been at your current job for a few months. Short stints at jobs can raise red flags for employers and may make them question your commitment or work ethic. Instead, focus on your work proficiency.

What Are The Best Resume Ideas for 2023?

There are six resume standarts that still work even now:

• Reverse-chronological format: This is the most used format and is suitable for most applicants.
• Functional format: This format will suit individual who have gaps in their work history or are changing careers.
• Infographic resume: This type of resume uses graphics, charts, and other visual elements to present information as an eye-catching and creative.
• Online resume: Consider creating an online resume, either as a standalone website or as a profile on a networking site like LinkedIn.
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How To Write A Resume In 7 Steps (With Examples)

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Resumes are still the most important document in your job search . Generating a professional and interesting resume isn’t easy, but there is a standard set of guidelines that you can follow. As hiring managers usually only spend a short time looking over each resume, you want to make sure that yours has a reason for them to keep reading.

If you’re looking to write a resume, rewrite a resume you already have, or are just curious about resume format, then you’ve come to the right place. This article will go through the steps to writing an excellent resume, as well as offering examples for what sections of the resume should look like.

Key Takeaways:

A resume is a short document that details your professional history in a way that tailors your experience and skill set for the particular job you’re applying for.

Resumes follow a few standard formatting practices, which hiring managers and recruiters expect to see.

Highlighting your work experience, skills, and educational background with relevant keywords can help you get past applicant tracking systems and into more interviews.

How to write a resume

Writing a resume involves using the proper formatting, writing an introduction, and adding your work experience and education. Stuffing your entire professional life into a single page resume can feel overwhelming, but remember that you’re distilling the relevant parts of your professional experience in order to catch the eye of the recruiter .

Formatting your resume. To start, use a word processor such as Microsoft Word or Google docs. Standard resume formatting calls for:

1 inch margins

10-12 point font

A professional, commonly-used font

Additionally, there are three resume formats that are commonly used. Most people should stick with a chronological resume format , but the combination resume format and functional resume format can be effective for more advanced workers or those who have significant gaps in their resume.

Write a resume header . It doesn’t matter if you have the best resume in the world if the hiring manager can’t contact you. Every single resume should include the following contact information:

Your full name. First and last.

Your phone number. Use a personal phone number, and make sure your voicemail is set up properly.

Your email address. Nothing inappropriate — [email protected] is a safe choice.

Location. City, State, Zip Code is fine, but you can include your full mailing address if you think it’s appropriate.

Your social media (optional). LinkedIn is the obvious one you’d want to include, but make sure your profile looks good. If you have an online portfolio , either on a personal blog/website or on a site like Journo Portfolio , feel free to include that here as well.

Your job title. Also optional, but can be useful for applicant tracking systems.

Resume introduction. You have four options for your resume introduction: a resume objective, summary statement, resume profile, or qualifications summary. For most job-seekers, a resume summary statement is the best choice. Regardless of which resume introduction you choose, avoid first-person pronouns (I/me/my).

Resume objective. A resume objective is the goal of your resume. Since the objective of every resume is to land a job, this is not the most original or impressive opener you can have.

On the other hand, it’s a good choice for an entry-level applicant or someone who is changing career paths . This should be a 1-3 sentence summary of why you’re motivated to get the position you’re applying for.

Who should use a resume objective: Entry-level applicants, career-changers, and recent college graduates.

Resume summary. This is the best opener for most job-seekers. As the name suggests, a resume summary highlights the most salient aspects of your resume.

It should include your current position, how many years of experience you have, some of your biggest achievements, and possibly your career goals. This should be a 1-3 sentence spiel and should include some quantifiable experiences.

Who should use a resume summary: Most job seekers; anyone with quantifiable accomplishments to emphasize and a broad range of skills.

Qualifications summary. A bullet point list (4-6 points is the sweet spot) of your qualifications for the position. It’s best used by applicants going for jobs that require a fixed skill set. It’s not a great choice for entry-level applicants who lack quantifiable achievements.

You’ll notice that a qualifications summary takes up more space than a resume objective or summary, but it can actually save the hiring manager time if you provide a bunch of valuable information right off the top.

Who should use a qualifications summary: Those applying to a job with requirements for certain skills and job-seekers who have a lot of experience in their industry and/or field.

Resume profile. A resume profile is similar to a resume summary, but goes into more detail about your accomplishments at your current or former job, while also telling the reader about your career goals. Think of a resume profile as a section that pulls all the best parts of your work experience section into one place.

Who should use a resume profile: Anyone with significant accomplishments under their belt, expertise in a niche field, or applying to a job in the same industry that they have lots of experience in.

Resume headline. Resume headlines aren’t necessary, but you can include one alongside any of the four types of resume introduction listed above. A resume headline comes between your contact information and the resume introduction of your choice.

Headlines can be used by entry-level applicants and experienced job-seekers alike. The important point is that your headline should be short and to the point. Additionally, you should use title case when writing your resume headline (capitalize words as you would for a book title).

Who should use a resume headline: Any job-seeker who wants to showcase their experience or unique value right off the bat.

Work experience. Your work experience section is the place to let hiring managers know that you have relevant experience that would allow you to handle the job you’re applying for.

If you’re using the chronological resume format, your work experience section would come after your resume summary/objective. In a funcitonal reumse, it would follow your skills section. Either way, work experience should be listed in reverse-chronological order (most recent experience at the top).

When listing your work experience, you should include all of the following information:

Job title. Start by stating the position you held at the company. These are easy cue for the hiring manager to look at and determine whether your past positions would help you succeed at their company.

Company Info. Include the name of the employer, the location where you worked, and perhaps a brief description of the company, if it isn’t a well-known name.

Dates Employed: Use the mm/yyyy format if you want to be sure that most applicant tracking systems (ATS) will pick it up. Whatever format you use for dates, be consistent, or your resume will look sloppy.

Job Description. Don’t just list your job’s responsibilities; hiring managers and recruiters already have an idea of your duties based on the job title. Instead, list your most important and impressive responsibilities/achievements at the job with bullet points. Determine which of these are most relevant for your new role based on the job description.

Ideally, each bullet should be no longer than a single line. However, two lines is acceptable, if used sparingly.

Always start with a strong action verb, followed by a quantifiable achievement and a specific duty. For example: “Developed ad campaigns for clients, increasing sales by an average of 27%.” Each job title should include 3-5 bullet points.

The order that you include this information can be changed around, as long as you are consistent throughout your resume. However, the bullet points detailing your job’s achievements should always be the last item for each entry.

It’s important that you tailor your resume’s work experience section to the job you’re applying for. We recommend reading the job description carefully and highlighting the action verbs in one color and the skills, adjectives, and job-specific nouns in a different color.

Educational background. In almost all cases, your education section should come after your professional history. If you’re a recent college graduate with limited work experience, you may choose to put your educational achievements first.

Like the section on your professional history, educational experiences should come in reverse-chronological order, with your highest level of education at the top. If you have a college degree, you don’t need to add any information about your high school experience. If you didn’t finish college, it’s okay to give a list of what credits you did complete.

Each educational experience can be listed in the following format:

Degree/Program Name College/University Name Dates attended

You don’t need to add anything else, especially if your resume is already impressive enough. But if you’re struggling to fill up the page, or you feel that aspects of your educational experience will help make you a standout, you may consider also including:

Minor. If you think it rounds out your not-exactly-relevant-to-the-job major nicely.

GPA. Only if it was 3.5 or higher. Otherwise, it’s not going to do you any favors to include this.

Honors. Dean’s List, Cum Laude, etc.

Achievements. If you wrote a killer thesis/dissertation that showcases intimate knowledge relevant to the job to which you’re applying, you can include its title and a very brief description.

Extracurricular activities. Only include if they’re relevant. For example, if you’re applying for a management position and you were president of your student government.

Certifications/Licenses. If the job you’re applying for requires/likes to see certain certifications or licenses that you have, you may include them in this section as well.

Skills section. Your impressive skills should be scattered logistically throughout your professional history section, but you should also include a section solely dedicated to highlighting your skill set . Skills can be broken down into two categories:

Hard skills are skills you learn through training and indicate expertise with a technical ability or job-specific responsibility.

Soft skills are your personality traits, interpersonal abilities, and intangible qualities that make you more effective at your job.

Your resume should have a healthy mix of hard and soft skills, as both are essential to job performance. However, since soft skills are harder to prove in the context of a resume, we recommend leaning more toward hard skills. Additionally, whenever you list a soft skill, make sure that it has a correlating item in your work experience section.

For example, if you say you are skilled in collaboration, you should mention a time when a team project was a major success somewhere in your work experience section.

Optional sections. If you still have space left or there’s more you want to show off that doesn’t quite fit in any of the above sections, you may consider adding an additional section covering one or more of the below categories:

Language . Being bilingual is always impressive, and can be included on a resume for any company. Highlight this more if your position involves liaising with international distributors and/or clients. Don’t lie about your proficiency level.

It may be best to not mention it if you’re not particularly proficient speaker . Such as if you took courses in school, or haven’t really managed to gain fluency. It can end up looking like an attempt to inflate your credentials, which you want to avoid.

Volunteer experience . Always a good thing to include. It shows you’re a team player who behaves in a way that promotes the greater good, without thought of personal gain. Especially good for entry-level candidates and those applying for jobs at a non-profit. If you have gaps in your work history, you can also consider including volunteer experiences in your work history section instead.

Personal projects. A personal blog, published works, or a portfolio of your past projects are all good things to include. They show you take initiative, enjoy and take pride in your work, and that you can handle the responsibilities of the job, if relevant.

Certifications/licenses. If you didn’t include these in your education section, this is another good place to list relevant certifications or licenses that you have.

Interests . This is largely just a space filler if your resume is light in other areas. However, if your hobbies are directly related to the job that you’re applying for, it’s not a bad idea to include them. And it might draw a recruiter’s attention if you end up sharing some of the same interests as they do.

If you have several seemingly random items that are valuable, but don’t warrant creating a whole separate section for, you can also make a section called “Additional Experience.” Here you can include all of the above categories in one place. Just make sure that each item is clear and easy for readers to understand.

Resume samples

Now that we have a good idea of how to write a resume, let’s take a look at some example resumes:

Jack Pilgrim Washington , DC 14015 – (555) 444-3333 – [email protected] – www.linkedin.com/jpilgrim Resume Summary Graphic designer with 3+ years of experience creating and implementing promotional materials and social media graphics. Worked with sales and marketing teams to increase inbound calls by 23% YoY through compelling digital media. Adept at planning, managing, and prioritizing multiple deadlines at once, and thrives in fast-paced work environment. Work Experience Creative Designs | Washington, DC Lead Graphic Designer | June 2018-Present Worked with sales and marketing teams to create landing pages, sales proposals, and supporting media elements to drive sales by over $250,000 per quarter Trained, managed, and mentored team of 4 junior designers to fulfill 40+ project orders on a weekly basis Conducted UX research through surveys, usability testing, and data analysis to plan content marketing strategy, driving organic search traffic by 12% Presented proposals, results, and status updates to set of 4-7 clients, ensuring customer satisfaction at or above 95% for 3 years straight Happy Place | Alexandria, VA Junior Graphic Designer | July 2016-May 2018 Translated client needs and branding strategies into design and content strategy, increasing client retention by 22% Reduced project turnaround time by 8% by Utilizing web-based ticket system for completing and archiving finalized pieces Posted digital artwork to network IPTV using web interface to produce high-end info-graphics and other materials Happy Place | Alexandria, VA Marketing Intern | September 2015-July 2016 Assisted marketing team with data collection, analysis, and presentation using Google Analytics Drew up storyboards for new marketing campaigns alongside sales team, increasing brand awareness through social media Wrote 500-1000 word articles to pair with graphical elements on page, leading to a 40% boost in engagement on company website Education Savannah College of Art and Design | Savannah, Georgia May 2016 Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Skills Adobe Creative Suite Typography HTML/CSS WordPress Collaboration Organization

Allison Neederly Chicago, Illinois , 60007 | (333) 222-1111 | [email protected] | www.linkedin.com/allison.neederly Resume Summary Dedicated customer service representative with 4+ years experience resolving customers’ needs in-person, online, and over the phone. Top achiever at XYZ Inc. with a 100% customer satisfaction rate for Q1 of 2020. Friendly personable, and knowledgable about company’s products and services. Relevant Skills Customer Service Responded to upwards of 200 customer queries daily with XYZ Inc., reducing the average wait time by 56% and increasing customer satisfaction rates by 13% Ability to resolve conflict and create a positive atmosphere for shopping for both new and existing customers through technical proficiency Expert product knowledge and communication skills, and experience training and mentoring new customer service staff Web Chat and Phone Skilled in 3 web chat platforms for helping online customers resolve their queries quickly and accurately Achieved fastest call resolution rate at XYZ Inc., with an average resolution time of under 5 minutes per customer Performed outbound calls for customer satisfaction surveys, as well as writing web-based surveys for 10,000+ customers Troubleshooting Detailed product knowledge allowed for customer technical issues to be resolved at rate within top 5% of all customer service associates at XYZ Inc. Created manual for step-by-step directions for troubleshooting that was implemented for team of 100+ customer service reps Positive attitude took average tech-related negative response from 1/5 stars to 4/5 stars, increasing trust in brands and services Work Experience XYZ Inc. | Philadelphia, PA Customer Service Associate New Look Global | Burlington, VT Junior Customer Service Representative L.L. Bean | Burlington, VT Sales Associate Education University of Vermont | Burlington, VT May 2012 Bachelor of Arts in Humanities

Priya Laghari New York, NY | (222) 111-0000 | [email protected] | www.priyabizdev.com Resume Profile Strategy Development: Grew John Deere’s international sales by 13% by tapping into undeserved countries in Southeast Asia Management: Oversaw a team of managers representing marketing, sales, and product teams. Streamlined collaborative, cross-functional communications through agile and scrum management system CRM: Developed, customized, and implemented new customer relationship management database for accounts totaling over $10M in value Work Experience Business Development Manager 01/2015-Present Microsoft | Redmond, WA Developed product strategies and roadmap for Google AdWords, increasing inbound traffic by 26% YoY Reduced time training on new software by 50% for new and existing employees by implement e-learning programs Spearheaded digital marketing campaign worth $1M that saw a return of 200% in first year by qualifying leads earlier in the sales funnel Regional Sales Manager 11/2012-01/2015 Big Things Inc. | St. Louis, MO Managed territory encompassing 29 regional locations with an annual revenue of approx. $55M Worked with C-level executives to plan business strategies, resulting in 20% reduction in overhead costs Increased client retention by 12% in first year by implementing a CRM approach based on account profiling and elevating levels of relationship selling Account Manager 02/2009-11/2012 Solutions Corp. | Chicago, IL Implemented and developed CRM strategic plans, increasing retention of long-term clients by 22% Maintained 50+ accounts totaling over $35M in value Generated leads through one-on-one consultation via phone inquiries, online check-ins, and meeting office walk-ins Relevant Skills CRM: Proficient with Salesforce, Zoho, and HubSpot; some experience with Keap. Used various CRM software over a decade to successfully manage customer relations and quick to adapt to new software and tools that aid in quality of customer experience. Salesmanship: Negotiated and closed over several deals worth $1M+ and skilled in upselling and cross-selling. Adept at working closely with marketing and product teams to maximize the efficiency of the sales funnel for both inbound and outbound traffic. Presentation: Represented Microsoft Northwest Region at quarterly board meetings, ensuring all stakeholders were kept abreast of new developments and opportunities. Also deliver monthly presentations to big clients and vendors to maintain positive relationship. Data analytics. Expert at integrating data from various analytics platforms, including Google, Microsoft Power BI, and SAP BusinessObjects Education Colgate University | May 2008 MBA Fordham University | May 2006 Bachelor’s Degree in Business

For more resume examples and templates:

Resume examples by job

Google docs resume template

Resume templates

Resume builder

Resume Headers Samples:

Tip : Never put your contact info in the header of your document; some applicant tracking systems might miss it.

For more on how to write a resume header:

Resume Header

Resume Titles

Resume introduction examples

Entry-Level Resume Objective.

Recent graduate with a bachelor’s in Marketing from the University of Virginia seeking an entry-level role in content marketing. Excellent copywriter with 2+ years experience editing content as a member of the UVa Writing Center.

Career Change Resume Objective.

Eager to apply 7+ years of experience with customer success management to make successful outbound B2B calls, deliver customized business solutions to new and existing customers, and provide expert product knowledge in the role of Account Manager for XYZ Inc.

Example Resume Summary Statement.

Accountant with over 8 years of experience in the medical industry. Adept at advising on management of cash deficits, reconciling departmental accounts, and creating new accounts and codes. Coordinated invoice preparation system for ABC that reduced contractor overhead by 19% YoY.

English teacher with a love of language and 6 years of experience teaching high school students. Developed new curriculum that boosted freshman reading comprehension scores by 12% and created after school book club for AP Lit class, resulting in 100% of participating students achieving a 5 on the AP Lit test.

Example Qualifications Summary.

Executive assistant with 5+ years experience helping maintain efficiency in an office of 25 employees Communicated directly with internal and external stakeholders, helping Senior Vice President manage projects worth $5M+ Proactively managed office schedules, identifying and prioritizing changes to ensure client satisfaction Recognized in a company of 500 for “Outstanding Achiever” in May 2019

Example Resume Profile.

Detail-oriented IT Specialist with 4 years of experience overseeing and improving the infrastructure of IT systems. Adept at building and running troubleshooting systems and testing services. Decreased security risk by 47% through continual optimization, while also improving the speed of client portal by 22%. Excellent communicator both internally and for client-facing discussions. Achieved 98%+ customer satisfaction ratings through weekly and monthly check-ins with accounts valued cumulatively at $500,000.

Entry-Level Resume Headline.

Bilingual College Graduate with 80 WPM Typing Speed and Tutoring Experience

Experienced Resume Headline.

Business Development Specialist with 6+ Years Experience Scaling Start-Up Tech Teams

For more on resume introductions:

Resume objective statement

Resume summary statement

Resume summary statement examples

Qualifications summary

Sample resume work experience sections

Work Experience XYZ Industries | Seattle, WA Marketing Associate | May 2019-Present Delivered weekly presentations to client-base to communicate brand messaging, increasing client retention by 11% Served as liaison between marketing and product teams, resulting in projects finishing 2 weeks early, on average Leveraged Excel skills to create and maintain spreadsheet to track consumer insights, emergent trends, and inform decisions of marketing team through competitive analysis Managed team of 5 contractors to juggle multiple priority projects simultaneously, never missing a deadline Initiated an affiliate referral program that PR team went on to turn into a revenue-generating stream valued at $30,000 annually ABC Corp | Seattle, WA Marketing Intern | September 2018-May 2019 Developed, maintained, and processed 20+ digital consent forms and distributor forms Worked collaboratively with a team of 10 marketing professionals, closely aligning our goals with the PR team Provided data analysis using Google Analytics and performed keyword research to increase blog traffic by 56% over six months Answered up to 50 customer queries by phone and email each week

For more on building the perfect resume work experience section:

Resume work experience section

First resume (no experience)

Examples Of Education Resume Sections

Graduated recently from a 4-year program.

Western Illinois University | Macomb, Illinois May 2020 Bachelor of Arts in Sociology | Minor in Psychology 3.95 GPA magna cum laude Dean’s List all semesters

Two degrees.

Fordham University | Bronx, New York April 2016 Master of Chemical Engineering Stony Brook University | Stony Brook, New York April 2014 Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Anticipated graduation date (not yet graduated).

DePaul Univeristy | Chicago, Illinois Bachelor of Arts in History – Degree anticipated May 2021 Current GPA: 3.8

Older job seeker (graduated 10+ years ago).

University of Chicago | Chicago, Illinois Bachelor of Business Administration

High school graduate (no college degree).

Johnston High School 2016-2020 Head of Computer Club

More on crafting the perfect resume education section:

Education resume section

GPA on resume

Dean’s list

Magna cum laude

Examples Of Skills For Resume

Examples of hard skills include:

Examples of soft skills include:

Here’s more information on how to incorporate skills into your resume:

Resume skills section

Hard skills

Soft skills

Top skills for professionals

Skills-based resume

Resume writing FAQ

What is a resume?

A resume is a one to two-page document that focuses on professional experience, past achievements, education and certifications, and specific skills tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Almost every job application requires a resume, and hiring managers use them as a first impression in determining which applicants get a shot at an interview.

Whether you’re fresh out of college or have 30 years of professional experience, this guide should help craft a resume that stands out from the crowd and get you one step closer to landing your dream job.

What is the format for writing a good resume?

Most people will want to use a chronological or reverse-chronological resume format. This format is compatible with most applicant tracking systems (ATS) and is easy for employers to read. Additionally it helps highlight your experience, which helps prove your qualifications.

How far back should a resume go?

A resume should go back no further than 10 to 15 years. However, it is important that all your information is relevant. Therefore, do not include job experience that is irrelevant to your application, even if it’s fewer than 10 years old. Save that information for later discussions.

Should you personalize your resume for each job?

Yes, you should personalize your resume for each job you apply to. Many recruiters use ATS now, which will search for keywords in a resume and reject those that don’t have them. That means that the skills you choose to highlight as well as your opening, such as your resume summary, should be altered to suit each job you apply to.

You don’t need to rewrite the entire resume for each job, but it does show attention to detail and initiative to make sure that your resume is customized. It also makes it more likely that you’ll get past the first step of the process.

State of New York Department of Labor – Resumes, Cover Letters and Job Applications

Harvard University – Create a Resume/CV or Cover Letter

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Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.

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