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Home » Career Advice » Resume Tips » 10 Ways to Authentically Demonstrate Diversity and Inclusion in Your Resume

10 Ways to Authentically Demonstrate Diversity and Inclusion in Your Resume

Demonstrating your leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusion on your resume without sounding fake or forced can be challenging. In this post, we’ll examine 10 ways to authentically show your own diversity, your ability to work collaboratively, your experience creating inclusive environments and how you’ve helped people feel like they belong at work.

How Are You Unique?

In writing resume, the main goals are to effectively express your professional skills and abilities, summarize your previous experience and accomplishments and to creatively articulate to an employer why they should hire you over other candidates. Before you start listing technical skills or awards, consider what makes YOU unique- how are YOU different from anyone else in the applicant pool.

If you’re applying to an entry level role, nearly everyone in the applicant pool will likely have the same level of education, similar level of experience etc. so the challenge now becomes separating yourself from the crowd.

Questions to ask yourself to help clarify your own diversity:

• How do I think differently than other people?
• What am I good at?
• What do people know me for?
• What are my hobbies?
• What’s the most obscure or weirdest thing about me?

Reflecting on your own diversity, ask yourself how do you want to incorporate that into your resume? For example, if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community, where in your resume does it make sense to express that? You might add it under education if you were in a LGBTQ+ student group. You could also add it under your volunteer or leadership section if you volunteered with an LGBTQ+ organization. Lastly, perhaps you did an LGBTQ+ training at work and earned a certificate. You could add that certificate under your skills and certifications sections.

Remember, people hire people. HR recruiters and hiring managers are looking for human traits and ways to connect with you, even as early as the resume stage. Take this opportunity to express your uniqueness and talents . So even if you are applying to jobs where 99% of the applicant pool has the exact same qualifications you do, you will always stand out because you prioritized your own diversity in your resume first over learned skill or ability.

Inclusively Working Collaboratively

No matter your job, at some level, you will work with other people. Internally, externally, on your team or across working groups, the ability to work collaboratively, respectfully, and inclusively is a highly sought-after attribute employers are looking for in applicants starting as early as your resume.

Demonstrating your leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusion through your experience working in teams is a very authentic and natural way to write this into your resume. Reflect on a few different times in your life you’ve been part of a team. From being a student in academic group projects to a volunteer project in your community or the core tasks in your current job, there is a high likelihood you’ve worked as part of a team.

Questions to ask yourself to help clarify your inclusion on teams:

• What was the makeup of the team and what was my role?
• How did I respect my teammates?
• How did I communicate with my teammates?
• What ways did I invite opposing ideas or opinions?
• What ways did I create an inclusive space where all teammates felt seen and heard?

In professional roles and environments, critical debate is good! Through tension, we make ideas, processes, and products better. If you worked in a team where everyone thought the same or came from the same background, you’d be missing huge opportunities for creativity and innovation.

Your ability to lead and create opportunities for your team to work inclusively and collaboratively is a huge bonus to your resume. Be sure to add these skills throughout different areas of your resume. Even if you were a follower or a secondary group member, you can still demonstrate leadership qualities!

Moving From Diversity to Inclusion to Belonging

Basic diversity is having employees that are different from each other. In the HR world, applicants are segmented into pools by demographics based on categories such as education level, years of experience or identity groups (i.e., race, ethnicity, disability status, veteran status etc.). Inclusion is making sure everyone is invited into the conversation or has a seat at the table.

Creating and cultivating employee belongingness at an organization is arguably one of the hardest things to do in modern organizations. Employees are craving a sense of purpose around what they do at work and a sense of belonging with the folks they are doing their work with. Creating environments, processes, and procedures where folks feel an authentic sense of belonging is a critical skill employers are seeking out of future employees. So how do you demonstrate that on you resume?

Reflect on a time where you didn’t belong or were different from others around. What made you feel comfortable in that experience? Now think of a time where you were in the majority and got the opportunity to help someone on your team feel welcomed and included. Perhaps you were a mentor or trainer for a new employee, or you had to quickly bring a colleague up to speed on a project?

Ask yourself what skills helped you be successful in helping people feel they belong.

Skills and abilities to get you started thinking about belonging:

• Listening empathetically
• Asking the person what they need to feel they belong
• Connecting them to others in your organization (networking!)
• Asking them to lunch or work social events or trainings
• Genuinely show interest in their uniqueness and share your own diversity to create a real connection

It’s likely you’ve been a resource to helping someone feel they belong, show that on your resume! The soft skills you list on your resume help give employers a better sense of truly who you are, not just what technical skills you can do. So don’t sideline your soft skills, get them into the game and when coupled with technical skill and accomplishment, they can be a very powerful communicator of what working with you is like.

A Quick 10 Point Resume Checklist For Showing Diversity and Inclusion In Your Resume

Consider the following elements you can add to your resume to show commitment and leadership to diversity and inclusion including:

• Pronouns to your header
• Student clubs you were in during high school or college
• Diversity, equity and inclusion trainings or certifications
• Volunteer roles with diverse organizations
• Leadership roles showing inclusion and belonging skills
• Diversity accomplishments/awards you or your team has earned you are proud of
• Specific inclusion projects your progressed that made a difference to all members of your organization
• Employee Resource Groups you belong to or lead
• Ways you positively contributed to your organization’s culture
• Match inclusive language on your resume from what is listed on the job description

If you find yourself a little thin in opportunities to express your commitment and leadership to diversity and inclusion- that’s ok! Start creating a plan and being intentional with future volunteer opportunities, work projects or hobbies you pick up as you move forward in your career so you can eventually start adding these skills and abilities into your resume.

Hi! My name is Nadia Ibrahim-Taney and I help people design happy and fulfilling careers through authentic career coaching. My expertise includes career exploration guidance, resume writing, interview prep and LinkedIn profile optimization. My pronouns are She/ Her/ Hers and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I focus on how diverse identities impact and influence folks holistically and professionally. Please connect with me on  LinkedIn through my website .

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Dealing with a diverse work history on your CV

How can you create clarity on your CV when you have worked in a variety of sectors and roles?

• Looking for a job? Explore the range of vacancies on Guardian Jobs and find the perfect role for you

When hiring managers spend increasingly less time reading CVs , you need to join up the dots for them and quickly demonstrate that you're a strong candidate. This isn't too difficult if you're applying for a similar role or in the same sector, but it's more challenging if you've had a number of different jobs, if you're changing career, or if you're going back to a role or sector you previously worked in.

Here are some ways you can make sense of diverse experience:

Tailor your CV to the role

Your CV should not be a list of everything you've done. It's purpose is to position you for the role, so decide what's most important and delete unimportant details.

You might need to refocus your history to make it more appropriate. For example, if your previous job was in administration, with additional sales responsibilities, and you now want to move into sales, you can write in your experience section "administrative assistant with special responsibility for sales" and highlight your sales work and related achievements over the administration duties.

Focus on the wider themes of your career history

Go beyond the job titles and think about what you have consistently done well throughout your career. Have you always excelled at leading teams, helping people, increasing customer satisfaction, promoting a product or cause, for example? You can use this information to help build your brand and to strengthen your skills section.

By looking back over your career, you can probably find patterns of achievements or types of roles where you've made the strongest impact. These patterns help you clarify your brand — the qualities and career strengths that differentiate you and bring value to an organisation. Focus on these strengths when you write your CV and include career achievements that illustrate them.

A one-sentence branding statement under your CV heading (the job title that you're applying for) and a three to five-sentence career summary or professional profile also help to communicate your brand and immediately appeal to an employer.

Some skills (such as communication, organisation and leadership skills) are useful in all roles. Highlight these, especially if you need to compensate for a sketchy experience section.

This example is a reply to a question on the forums where the poster was asking how someone with a varied career can identify a specialism:

"Separate your skills into different categories; financial and budgetary, marketing and customer service, project management, technical and so on. For each skill area, think of one example to illustrate. What programs are you an expert at in web design? What sort of marketing have you been able to do on a restricted budget? And so on. The job description will give you a good indication of what skills and abilities they most want to see."

Reorganise your work history

Rather than sticking to a strict reverse chronological sequence listing every job from the most recent to the last, group your experience under different headings. You can divide your career history by functions (marketing or sales, for example), or by industry (publishing or advertising, for example) depending on what's most important from the job description, or what your strongest selling points are.

If you've had a series of short-term jobs — like this person in the forum — you can also group by time-frame.

Here's a snippet of the advice:

"It's a good idea to group together related short-term work experience. You can do it by time-frame (grouping together your nine months' experience) or you could do it by theme. For example, all your copywriting/editing/journalism experience in one section (the first section in your work history, if you're now applying for communications roles) and all your TV production experience in a different, second section. "How you slice and dice your work experience is going to depend on what the job you apply for requires, so you can be flexible in how you present this information. Have a look at the job advert and work out what's most important, then make sure this is prominent on your CV. "Given that the length of time you spent in these most recent roles has been short, try and focus on what you achieved. Do you have any samples of your work you can point to — such as links to articles and content online? Can you beef up your CV with a couple of testimonials?"

Employers generally want to see reverse chronology, but if you're returning to a sector you worked in previously, select a couple of achievements from this period and put them in a key achievements or career highlights section before your experience section — without including the dates. It doesn't hide the fact that your most recent experience isn't the most relevant, but it does show a successful track record in your targeted industry.

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How to Format a Resume That Goes on to a Second Page

How to write a competency-based resume, what things do people put in the skills section of their resumes.

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If you've held jobs in several industries or professions, your resume may portray you as someone who lacks focus. Employers might perceive this as a sign of having no ambition, or may think you won't stay at the company long if they hire you.

However, by structuring your resume around the experience relevant to the job you're applying for, you can make your work history seem less varied and more directed toward a particular goal or direction. Reviewing how to create a sample resume with diverse work experience will help you develop the best final version for your needs.

Focus on Relevant Skills

You might start your resume with a skills list, instead of a paragraph-form professional summary for diverse work experience. You might also choose a functional or skills-based resume instead of the traditional chronological format. With a functional resume, you identify three or four skills required for the job you're applying for.

List each on your resume, providing examples of how you used these skills at previous jobs or awards and honors you've won within each category. This type of resume helps you create a type of resume that consolidates skills and responsibilities and not job titles.

Briefly mention your work history underneath the skills section, listing only job titles, dates of employment and company names. This creates focus by demonstrating how you've consistently used these skills at your previous jobs, instead of emphasizing the variations in your work history.

Group Similar Jobs Together

List your previous jobs by industry or category instead of by date. For example, if you've held customer service jobs and clerical jobs, create a section for each. Under customer service, list your experience as a cashier and as a customer service representative, doing the same for each additional section.

Illustrating what your previous jobs had in common instead of how different they were portrays you as someone with more focus than if you list several seemingly unrelated positions.

Show Career Progression

Create continuity by demonstrating how you've worked your way up the corporate ladder, recommends jobs website Indeed.com . For example, at the top of your resume, add a section titled "Management Experience," and then list every management job you've held.

Include lower-ranking jobs underneath this section and label them "Additional Experience." You can also list jobs by title to illustrate your career path. If you're a journalist, create sections titled "Editorial Assistant," "Reporter" and "Editor," listing your highest-ranking positions at the top of the page.

Create Multiple Resumes

You should always tailor your resume to the job you're applying for, and this is especially true if you have varied work experience that doesn't relate the jobs you're seeking. Instead of listing every job and every qualification on your resume, create several resumes, each one highlighting a specific skill or talent.

Emphasize the skills that are most relevant to the job for which you're applying, and spend less time covering skills you won't use for this job. For example, if you're applying for different jobs in graphic design and photography, write a resume for each one. For the graphic design resume, omit your photography experience or mention it only briefly. Instead, describe your training and experience in graphic design.

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Work Experience on a Resume - How to List It Right

Imagine you’re a hiring manager who goes through countless resumes on the daily.

What’s the first thing you look at?

If your guess was work experience, then you’re right.

And if you spot a few relevant keywords in their work experience section, then you’re more likely to continue reading about their background, contact information, and so on.

The most important thing hiring managers want to know is whether you can do the job you’re applying for, and that’s where the work experience section of your resume comes in.

So how do you make your work experience do the heavy lifting?

Don’t worry! Our article is here to help.

We’re going to cover:

• What Information Your Work Experience Section Needs

How to Format Work Experience on Your Resume

• 11 Real-Life Examples of Work Experience on a Resume

Let’s get started.

What to Include in Your Work Experience Section

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

This is the section that gives hiring managers a look at your professional journey so far, including your skills and achievements, and it’s the section they base their hiring decisions on the most.

Your work history can show how likely you are to excel at the job, how committed you are to career growth , and what industry know-how you ought to have.

This section is going to look different depending on your career level, how recent your work experience is, and what the job you're applying for is.

Let’s look at what information employers expect from your work experience section:

• Job Title/Position . Add this at the top of each work experience entry. You want the hiring manager to know at a glance that you have relevant work experience for the job, so use the actual job title instead of any buzzwords.
• Company Name. Include the name of the employer. Sometimes, if the employer isn’t well-known, you might want to describe the company in a sentence or two to give the hiring manager context.
• Location. The general location, such as the city and state/country where you worked, is more than enough information.
• Employment Dates. Write down the approximate timeframe of your employment. There’s no need to give exact dates since the standard format for this is mm/yyyy.
• Responsibilities and Achievements. The core of each work experience entry is what you achieved while you were there. List your responsibilities and achievements in bullet points instead of paragraphs to make them easier to read. Use 5-6 bullet points for newer job entries and 2-3 for older ones.

Here’s an example of a work experience section that includes all of the above:

Want to know more about other resume sections? Learn how to write a resume with our detailed guide!

You know what to include in your work experience section, so let’s talk about how to include it.

First things first - your work experience section should always follow a reverse chronological order . Add your latest work experience at the very top, and work your way backward.

Hiring managers aren’t interested in what you did ten years ago. Instead, they’d rather know what you’ve been up to right before applying for this specific job.

That being said, if you have a lot of experience, you shouldn’t include every single job you’ve ever had.

Your resume is supposed to be one page long , so feel free to omit any summer gigs or part-time jobs to free up space. It’s also extremely important that your work experience is easy to find and that the information is well-structured and readable.

Here’s an example of how to format your work experience section:

Making Your Work Experience Stand Out

Now that you know how to list your work experience, you need to describe it in a way that makes you stand out from other candidates.

We’ve divided this process into several steps, starting with:

#1. List Achievements Instead of Responsibilities

Too many resumes focus on the day-to-day tasks in the work experience section.

The thing is, hiring managers already know what those responsibilities are. They’re the ones who write the job ads, so you won’t impress them by telling them you did just what they would expect you to do.

For example, if you’re a QA engineer, your responsibilities could include:

• Identifying software bugs.
• Ensuring test coverage for all features.
• Making detailed reports on product quality.

These same responsibilities show up in 99% of QA engineer resumes out there.

So, if you want to stand out from the crowd, you want to focus on your most impressive achievements instead. Show the hiring manager how you helped your previous employer and the difference you made while you were there.

Let’s compare how the same work experience entry looks like when we use achievements and when we use responsibilities:

• Increased test coverage by 25% by implementing new automated test suites.
• Reported and triaged over 100 high-priority defects ahead of major releases.
• Executed manual test cases across web and mobile applications.
• Logged defects into bug-tracking systems as they were encountered.

But there are some fields where there aren’t that many achievements you can mention in your resume. For example, if you’re a server , serving 120+ patrons a night, or earning a lot of tips aren’t achievements that look good on your resume.

Your daily tasks probably include:

• Taking orders, serving food and beverages, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Preparing tables for meals, including setting up items such as linens, silverware, and glassware.
• Assisting in opening and closing the restaurant, including cleaning duties and setting up for the next service.

In this case, it’s okay to focus on responsibilities instead. You can still distinguish yourself by following the rest of our tips on how to make your work experience shine.

#2. Tailor Your Work Experience to the Job

If you want your resume to go from “okay” to "outstanding," what you need to do is tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for. 

The hiring manager doesn’t need to know details about every job you’ve had or about the skills you gained in a different field. 

So, your work experience should reflect what the job requirements are. This way, you’re more likely to really catch the hiring manager’s attention and land a job interview .

Here’s an example of a well-tailored job ad:

As you can see from the picture, it’s easy to figure out what the most important requirements for the role are. 

So, to tailor your resume to this ad, you need to show how you meet every one of these job requirements.

Let’s look at an example of how the same work experience would be tailored differently according to different job ads.

Say, you were an advertising intern.

Here’s what your work experience would look like when you’re applying for a position as a social media assistant:

INTERNSHIPS

Marketing Intern

Full Picture Company

New York, NY

09/2023 - 12/2023

• Analyzed various social media platforms for trending content.
• Managed company social media accounts.
• Posted interesting content on the company's Facebook page, increasing engagement by 25%.

Pretty easy, right? Now, let’s look at what the same work experience entry would look like for a job as a content writer .

• Assisted the Marketing Manager in writing press releases and new blog posts, which increased web traffic by 25%.
• Created engaging content for email marketing campaigns and boosted newsletter subscriptions.
• Revitalized old blog posts with updated information and SEO optimization, improving organic search rankings by 30%.

The internship is still the same but this way, the experience you’re focusing on is tailored to the job you’re applying for. The hiring manager can immediately see your most important skills for the job and the value you could bring to their team.

#3. Add the Right Amount of Work Experience

If you’ve had a lot of jobs so far, you might be wondering if they all belong on your resume.

The answer is usually no. Your full, detailed work history belongs on your CV instead of your resume .

The hiring manager only wants the most recent and relevant information, not your full life story.

So, the amount of work information your resume should include depends entirely on your level of experience.

Let’s break it down:

• No Experience. If you’re currently looking for your very first job , you simply won’t have any jobs to fill in your work experience section. In that case, we recommend skipping this section and instead focusing on any experience gained in clubs, extracurricular activities , volunteering, and other projects.
• Entry-Level. When you’re applying for an entry-level job, you can list most of your work experience so far. Likely, some of it won’t be relevant, but it still shows the hiring manager that you have some work experience, and that’s better than none.
• Mid-Level. At this level, you should only mention relevant work experience. Don’t waste precious space listing old internships or jobs you had as a teenager .
• Senior-Level. You only need to list up to 15 years of relevant work experience. You might even need a two-page resume to apply for an executive position at this stage, but only if you have too much relevant work experience to fit onto a single page.

#4. Optimize for the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

Before the hiring manager reads your resume, it has to make it to them.

The fact is that 70% of resumes get discarded before the hiring manager even reads them.

That’s because most companies use specialized Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) to go through hundreds of resumes and automatically filter out ones that don’t have what the hiring manager is looking for.

Unfortunately, this means that if a resume is missing a specific skill or isn’t formatted in a way that the ATS can process , it gets rejected immediately.

So, how can your work experience make the cut?

Here are a few tips:

• Don’t go over one page. The ATS can have a limit on how long a resume is allowed to be, so we recommend always sticking to a single-page resume.
• Format everything carefully. Don’t give your resume sections quirky names. Your work experience section should be titled “Work Experience,” not “The Journey So Far.” If you try being too creative, the ATS might not recognize what that section is and reject you.
• Tailor carefully to the job ad. If you want to beat the ATS, you need your resume to be as tailored to the job ad as possible. Include as many relevant keywords as you can in your work experience section. Just make sure they’re all used in a logical context since the hiring manager is supposed to read them, too.
• Keep everything in an active voice. Describe your previous jobs with clear and specific language. (E.g.: Instead of “A team of ten people was managed by me,” say “Managed a team of ten people” ).
• Use power words and action verbs. Hiring managers don’t want to hear how you “were responsible” for this or “helped with” that. Make your work experience pop by using impactful language like “spearheaded,” “designed,” “conceptualized,” and more.

Choose one of our ATS-friendly resume templates to make sure your resume passes the test.

Where to Place Work Experience on Your Resume

The work experience section should always be one of the first sections on your resume, along with the skills section.

Typically, it comes just after your resume header , so that the hiring manager can read it immediately after your resume headline .

If you are using the reverse-chronological resume format, work experience should go at the top of your resume. This way, hiring managers can quickly evaluate your qualifications based on your most recent roles.

However, if you’re using a different resume format, such as functional or combination resume formats, you can make an exception. These resume formats emphasize skills over work history, so you could move your work experience further down, towards the middle of your resume.

Recent graduates are another exception to this rule

Suppose you’re a student with minimal professional experience. In that case, you can put your education section on top instead of your work experience section to emphasize your academic achievements and show that you’re ready to put your knowledge to good use.

Want to learn about the other popular resume formats ? Check out this article to see which one is right for you.

Complimentary Resume Sections

While your work experience might be the single most important section of your resume, at the end of the day, it works in sync with the rest of it.

Other resume sections , like your resume summary or certifications, can show the hiring manager how experienced you are and how much industry know-how you bring to the table.

So, here are a few other resume sections that come into play if you want to back up your work experience and increase your chances of getting an interview:

#1. Resume Summary

A resume summary is a short section at the top of your resume that highlights your most relevant skills and achievements related to the job.

In 2-3 simple sentences, a good resume summary tells the hiring manager:

• Your years of experience in that type of role.
• Your top qualifications or impressive accomplishments.
• What kind of responsibilities you’re familiar with.
• What your motivation for the position is.

By summarizing the core of your work experience upfront, your resume summary lets the hiring manager know what they can expect from the rest of your resume. So, when done well, an eye-catching resume summary can make you stand out from the crowd.

Here’s an example of a resume summary:

Another important section is devoted to your most important skills.

The skills section lets you list abilities that supplement your work experience, and it should be divided into two categories:

• Hard Skills. These include technical skills, tools, and specific knowledge that’s directly applicable to the role.
• Soft Skills. These can be personality traits or interpersonal skills that demonstrate how you work with others and how well you’d fit into the company’s team.

Along with your work history, the skills section helps employers quickly evaluate your credentials and relevant expertise for the position. While your work experience highlights skills in context, the skills section provides an easy-to-reference summary.

Make sure the skills you list on your resume align with what the employer is looking for. Use the job description as a reference to pinpoint the keywords you should add to your resume .

Here’s an example of a skills section on a resume:

#3. Certificates

Professional certificates and coursework can show your commitment to continuous learning and honing your skills.

Listing certificates on your resume allows you to showcase specialized knowledge and skills that might not be evident from your work experience.

For example, say you’re applying for a position as an SEO content marketer.

If you’re experienced in digital marketing but don’t have formal work experience with SEO, that could be a problem. However, listing a certificate from an SEO course can tell the hiring manager that you have the necessary knowledge to take on the role.

Relevant certificates can provide evidence of your advanced skills, industry expertise, or any other necessary qualifications for the role. They can back up your skills and distinguish you from other candidates with similar work experience.

Depending on the context, any certificates you have can either be listed in the education section or a dedicated resume section.

If the certificates are more recent and different from your formal education, we recommend listing them separately. Here’s an example:

#4. Personal Projects

One of the best ways to show your passion and dedication is through your projects.

Hiring managers love candidates who do cool stuff in their spare time.

If any personal passion project you’ve been working on is relevant to the role you’re applying for, make sure to add it to your resume. It can back up the skills and experience on your resume, and help you stand out from other applicants.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as an animator , any published flash animation videos on YouTube are a great addition to your resume.

However, personal projects should only be listed if they’re relevant. If you’re looking for a job as an architect , your incredible cosplay sewing abilities just won’t cut it.

Here’s an example of a personal projects section:

11 Real-Life Examples

Not sure how to list work experience for your field?

Check out the practical work experience in these resume examples for different professions:

#1. Marketing Executive Resume Example

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

#2. Teacher Resume Example

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

#3. Cashier Resume Example

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

#4. Software Engineer Resume Example

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

#5. Career Change Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a career change resume here.

#6. Illustrator Resume Example

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

#7. Esthetician Resume Example

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

#8. Stay-at-Home Parent Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a stay-at-home parent resume here.

#9. University Graduate Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a university graduate resume here.

#10. University Student Resume Example

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

#11. High School Graduate Resume Example

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

Work Experience Section FAQs

Are you still wondering about something related to your resume’s work experience? Check out the answers to these popular questions about listing work experience on a resume:

#1. What If I Don’t Have Any Work Experience?

If you don’t have any work experience, there are two things you should consider: first, hiring managers don’t expect candidates for entry-level roles to have a ton of experience, so you don’t have to worry too much.

And second - there are plenty of ways to make an impressive resume even without any professional experience .

For example, if you're a recent graduate, you can focus on highlighting your education, relevant coursework or extracurricular activities.

Include any internships, volunteer roles, or student organizations that show you have the skills necessary for the job.

You can also highlight universal skills like communication , teamwork, problem-solving, and computer skills . If you use a strategic approach, your lack of work experience won’t hold you back from writing a great resume.

#2. Can I List an Internship Instead of Work Experience?

Yes, you can list internship experience on your resume instead of work experience.

Internships provide valuable on-the-job training and give you exposure to a professional work environment, so they’re always a great thing to add to your resume.

Like work experience, internships allow you to gain important skills, learn about a particular industry or role, and build accomplishments you can use to show potential future employers. 

Internships can be a vital resume section for candidates with less experience, such as students, career changers, or stay-at-home parents re-entering the workforce, since they show hiring managers you have enough relevant hands-on experience to succeed at the job.

#3. How Can I Explain an Employment Gap on My Resume?

The key to managing a gap in your work experience section is to address it briefly and positively on your resume or cover letter .

In a line or two, explain what happened and move on without dwelling on it, since employment gaps are relatively common and can happen for different reasons.

For example, if you had to take a year off to recover from a medical issue, just say so in your resume without going into details. The important thing is that you’re now better, ready to resume work, and the hiring manager knows it won’t be a problem.

If you have a short employment gap, you can probably skip the explanations. Simply list the start and end dates for each role without explaining the time in between. A couple of months between jobs is perfectly normal, and hiring managers aren’t likely to ask about it.

#4. What If My Work Experience Isn’t Relevant?

If you're applying for a job and none of your work experience is relevant, it’s a bit more complicated.

As a general rule, any work experience is better than no work experience. Most soft skills are applicable across industries, so you can focus on them in your resume.

If you’re an entry-level candidate, you might want to leverage other areas to show the hiring manager that you’re a good fit for the role.

For example, if you want to be a graphic designer but only have experience in customer service , emphasize your art education, portfolio work, and personal projects instead. If you’ve taken any more recent courses related to the field, you can list them before your work experience.

However, if you’re an experienced professional looking to change careers , things are a little different.

For a career change, you need to articulate your transferable skills and show how your previous experience can help you in this new role.

Let's say you're a sales professional interested in marketing. You could highlight skills like communication, market analysis, client relationship-building, and goal-oriented achievements that show your valuable marketing skills.

Key Takeaways

You’ve made it to the end!

Now, you’re all set to write a flawless work experience section.

But before you go, let’s recap what we talked about:

• Always list your work experience reverse-chronologically so the hiring manager can see what your most recent achievements and experiences are.
• If possible, focus on work achievements over day-to-day tasks. This way, you can immediately show the hiring manager what you’ve done for your previous team and what the value of hiring you would be.
• Carefully format your work experience so it passes the ATS and so that the hiring manager can easily read it.
• Instead of paragraphs, use bullet points to describe your previous jobs. For newer experiences, 5-6 bullets are good, but for older ones, 2-3 bullet points are enough.
• If you don’t have work experience, use this section to list your internship, volunteer experience, personal projects, or extracurricular activities. Treat them the same way you would treat work experience, and list your responsibilities and achievements in bullet points.
• Make sure the other sections in your resume complement your work experience for a flawless job application.

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Home › DEI › How to Write a Diversity and Inclusion Resume

How to Write a Diversity and Inclusion Resume

TABLE OF CONTENTS

There’s no doubt that having a diverse workforce is beneficial for companies. However, there are challenges involved in creating a successful diversity and inclusion resume.

Writing a resume is a daunting task it requires some strategic planning. There are hundreds of different resumes out there, each designed to highlight a different skill set. If you want to get hired, you need to stand out from the crowd.

This blog post will show you how to create a resume that highlights your skills, global diversity and experience while making sure it’s diverse enough to appeal to multiple employers.

Diversity and Inclusion: What Is It?

First things first, what exactly does diversity mean when it comes to employment and odes inclusion strategy work?

According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, “diversity” means “the recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, training, retention, or other terms or conditions of employment of people who identify with one or more groups historically discriminated against.”

The EEOC also defines “diversity inclusion” as “the practice of recruiting, hiring, promoting, compensating, training, retaining, and treating employees without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information.”

So, if you’re looking to be hired by a human resources manager who values diversity, then you should make sure your resume reflects that.

How Does a D&I Resume Look?

A typical resume looks something like this:

• Phone number

• Email address

• Date of birth

• Education

• Skills/Experience

• References

So, how do you write a professional diversity and inclusion resume?

1. Make Sure Your Skills Are Accurate

When writing a resume, it’s straightforward to overstate your abilities. You may have been working on a project for several years, but a potential employer who may be a diversity manager won’t know about it if you don’t mention it on your resume.

It’s also possible that you’ve had a job title change since you last worked. For example, if you were a manager before, you might now say that you’re a team leader. It’s best to keep your skills up-to-date. This way, you can showcase your current work history and demonstrate that you’re still relevant. also, include any other useful employee engagement activities and strong project management skills you possess.

2. Include Experience That Reflects Your Goals

If you want to hire an employer that supports diversity and inclusion, you need to include some experience showing that they value these qualities.

For instance, you could list volunteering at a local LGBT center. Or maybe you helped organize a conference for women in tech. Whatever you choose, make sure it demonstrates that you want to work with people from various backgrounds.

3. Don’t Forget About References

You wouldn’t go to school without references, so why would you apply for jobs without them? When applying for a position, always ask for three references. It will ensure that you have plenty of options available to you. And even though most companies prefer to see two or three, you never know where a reference might lead you.

4. Keep It Short & Sweet

Your resume shouldn’t take longer than one page. If you’re having trouble keeping it short, try breaking down your experience into bullet points instead of paragraphs. Also, avoid using too many fonts and colors. Employers tend to favor simple designs that are easy to read.

5. Be Professional

Even though you’re not going to be meeting anyone face-to-face when you send out resumes, you still need to put a little effort into making yours look good. Don’t use fancy fonts or graphics. Instead, stick to plain text.

And don’t forget to proofread your resume. A typo here or there can throw off an entire application process.

6. Add Keywords

As we mentioned earlier, keywords help recruiters find you more easily. So, make sure to add the right ones to your resume.

Some examples include:

• Diversity & Inclusion

• Women in Tech

• Black History Month

7. Use Appropriate Formatting

There’s no reason to use Comic Sans or Times New Roman font. Stick to standard formats such as Arial or Calibri.

8. Proofread Before Sending Out Applications

Once you’ve written your resume, it’s time to start sending it out. But before doing this, make sure to double-check everything.

Look through your resume for spelling mistakes, grammar errors, and typos. Then, fix any problems you find.

9. Follow Up With Emails

After you submit your applications, it’s essential to follow up with each company individually. Make sure to thank them for their consideration and let them know how much you appreciate their interest.

10. Stay Positive

While you may feel discouraged after receiving rejections, remember that everyone has different experiences. So, don’t think about what happened and focus on what you learned from the interview process.

Showing Diversity and Inclusion on Your Resume

When writing your resume, you should show employers that you support diversity initiatives and inclusion. It is especially true if you want to get hired at a place that values those qualities.

To do this, you first need to understand what these terms mean. After all, they aren’t exactly common knowledge.

What Is Diversity?

Diversity refers to differences between individuals. These could include race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability status, veteran status, etc.

So, how can you demonstrate diversity initiatives and inclusion in your resume? Well, you can start by highlighting the following:

1. Working with diverse teams

You can highlight that you worked with different employee resource groups using different inclusion strategies. For example, you could mention that you worked with someone older than you or someone who had a disability. Still, you can mention that you have participated in talent management or inclusion initiatives activities.

It is a great way to show that you have empathy for others and that you value diversity. Also, it shows that you will not be affected by different diversity strategies used in workplaces. Once you include this information in your resume, you’ll stand out among other candidates.

2. Volunteering in an organization that supports diversity

You can show that you care about others and value differences by volunteering in organizations that promote diversity. And since companies like to see evidence of community involvement, this is a great way to stand out.

For example, you might say something like, “I volunteered at my local food bank where I taught ESL classes.”

3. Participating in activities that encourage diversity

When applying for jobs, you can list activities that you participated in that promoted diversity. For instance, you might have volunteered at a local LGBTQ+ center or attended a conference where speakers discussed diversity issues.

At the same time, if you work for a company that promotes diversity, you can mention this in your cover letter.

You can also highlight the fact that you are part of a team that helps other groups succeed.

4. Having mentors who represent diverse backgrounds

Mentors play a significant role in helping employees grow professionally. So, when you write your resume, you can mention that you have mentors who come from diverse backgrounds.

Having such mentors is a great way to learn more about diversity and inclusion. However, ensure that you only name one mentor per position. If you have multiple mentors, make sure that each person represents a different background.

5. Supporting diversity initiatives

Companies and diversity managers often offer training programs to help employees better understand diversity and inclusion. If you’re interested in learning more about these programs, you can mention them on your resume. Informal training assists partners to cope and working together. So if you have received any informal training, mention it.

You can also mention using social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter are great ways to reach out to potential employers.

If you use these sites, you can post images and videos that promote diversity and inclusion.

6. Demonstrating cultural competency

Cultural competency is another way to show that you support diversity. It means being able to communicate effectively across cultures. When writing your resume, you can use inclusive language such as “people of color” instead of “black” or “white.”

While at it, ensure to use inclusive language, it applauds the firm’s diversity recruiting efforts. You can use inclusive language when speaking with others. For example, you could say “folks” instead of ‘man’ or ‘woman.’

7. Being aware of unconscious bias

Unconscious bias happens when we don’t realize that our thoughts affect our actions. It can lead us to stereotype certain groups of people.

When you apply for a job, you can be mindful of your own biases and avoid stereotyping. Remember that not all stereotypes are negative. For example, some may think that Asian-Americans are hardworking and intelligent.

8. Showing respect

Respect is important because it shows how you treat others whether they are your colleagues or business partners. When writing your resume or cover letter, you can mention showing respect by using inclusive language.

9. Showing leadership skills

Leadership skills are vital because they allow you to influence others. Therefore, when you’re looking for a new job, you should highlight your leadership experience.

For instance, if you’ve been an active member of a community organization, you can include this information on your resume.

10. Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and build relationships. However, before volunteering, you need to consider whether you want to volunteer for a nonprofit or a business. It is a method companies use in talent acquisition.

A nonprofit will likely ask you to do things like fundraising or serve food. On the other hand, a business will likely ask you to work on projects related to their company including taking part in their training programs.

11. Using technology to improve diversity

Technology has made life easier. But, it’s also created challenges. For example, it’s become harder to find jobs.

So, if you’re looking for a job, you should take advantage of the technology available to you. You can use online resources to search for employment and even look up companies and a diversity manager you will be happy to work with.

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How to deal with varied experience on your resume.

Job specialization has its benefits as you increase your skills in a particular area, but a horizontal work history can also work to your advantage. If you have done different kinds of work in one or more professions, make your varied experience work for you instead of against you by emphasizing your ability to adapt.

Lead With Your Cover Letter

You might not be able to adequately address your varied work history on your resume, even if you list all of your jobs and accomplishments. Refer to the benefits of your different experiences in your cover letter as they apply to the prospective job. This helps a potential employer see how your work history makes you a good candidate for the jobs he’s offering. For example, you might write, “my experience working for a call center, as a retail clerk and as a salesperson have helped me develop significant people skills that will help me work well with your employees in the role of human resources coordinator.”

Create a Skill-Set List

At the top of your resume, rather than leading with an objective -- which tells employers what you want, rather than what you can do for them -- lead with a box that lists three to six skills you have that are relevant to the job. This allows you to demonstrate that your varied experience is an asset rather than a liability. As an alternative to a skill-set list, consider a one-sentence qualifications profile, such as, “Experienced professional with extensive people skills including customer service, sales and survey administration.”

Create a Chronological Resume

Create a standard resume that lists your work history, starting each heading with your title, company and years worked there. Under each position, emphasize accomplishments rather than duties. For example, most people know that a call center worker takes or makes phone calls. If you increased sales, helped rewrite scripts or trained new hires, list that information. Avoiding sending up any red flags that could make you look defensive, such as listing why you left your job.

Link Different Jobs

If possible, link your work at one company to another when the jobs are different. For example, if you went from being a call center employee to work as retail store clerk, add a note under your retail job such as, “Used my experience as a telephone customer support specialist to help store customers with questions, complaints and product information.” Another example might be, “Used my contacts in the call center industry to help my sales manager find a new telephony system that automated inbound sales calls more efficiently.”

Create a Functional Summary

A functional, or skills-based, resume groups your experience, regardless of the time or place. This helps you better emphasize your skill set for a potential employer. Instead of creating a second full resume, create a half-page summation of your skills an employer can read quickly and include it, along with your cover letter and resume, as part of your application.

Related Articles

How to write a summary of qualifications for a resume →.

How to Write a Perfect Resume →

How to Format a Resume With Lots of Experience →

How to describe self-management skills on a resume →.

Examples of a Career Summary →

How to List Hourly Salary History →

• Forbes: Is a Skills-Based Resume Right for You?
• Harvard Business Review: Your Career Needs to Be Horizontal
• FINS Sales and Marketing: The 10 Risks and Rewards of a Lateral Career Move

Sam Ashe-Edmunds has been writing and lecturing for decades. He has worked in the corporate and nonprofit arenas as a C-Suite executive, serving on several nonprofit boards. He is an internationally traveled sport science writer and lecturer. He has been published in print publications such as Entrepreneur, Tennis, SI for Kids, Chicago Tribune, Sacramento Bee, and on websites such Smart-Healthy-Living.net, SmartyCents and Youthletic. Edmunds has a bachelor's degree in journalism.

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How to Craft a Winning Resume: Step-By-Step Guide

A standout resume showcases your fit for the role and reflects your professional narrative and brand, emphasizing your qualifications, experience and the unique value you bring to the position.

Quality Verified

Updated: April 5, 2024

On This Page:

• Why Your Resume Matters
• Step 1: Job Description
• Step 2: Format
• Step 3: Objective
• Step 4: Work Experience
• Step 5: Skills
• Step 6: Education & Credentials
• Step 7: Optional Sections
• Step 8: Proofread

Additional Resources

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

An effective resume is much more than a simple list of skills and career history. Your resume often makes the first impression on potential employers and is vital to securing an interview during a job search . When crafted correctly, it's a tool that reflects your qualifications, experiences and compatibility with the position you're applying for.

Importance of a Well-Crafted Resume

A well-crafted resume does more than state your work history — it's a strategic way to present your professional narrative in the most compelling light. Here's why a resume is vital in your job application process:

Step 1: Carefully Read the Job Description

The first step in crafting a compelling resume is a thorough understanding of the job description. It sets the direction for how you'll customize your resume to meet the specific needs and requirements of the role. Here's how to approach it:

Read Attentively

Begin by reading the job description carefully. Pay attention to the language used and the listed responsibilities and requirements. This will give you a clear idea of what the employer values most.

Highlight Key Skills and Qualifications

As you read, underline or highlight the essential skills and qualifications mentioned. These are usually listed under sections titled "Requirements," "Qualifications," or "Skills."

Match Your Skills

Compare your experiences and skills to those in the job description. Identify where your background aligns with the job requirements. This step is crucial for tailoring your resume to show you're an ideal fit.

Incorporate Keywords

Integrate keywords and phrases found in the job description throughout your resume. Use them in your summary, work experience and skills sections. This shows that your qualifications match the role and helps your resume get past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which screen resumes based on specific keywords.

Step 2: Choose the Best Resume Format

Choosing the right resume format ensures that your application captures the attention of hiring managers by presenting your background in the most effective and relevant way. Below are the three most commonly used resume formats, along with guidance on who should use each and why:

Chronological Resume

This format arranges your work experience in reverse chronological order, beginning with your most recent job at the top. It's ideal for individuals with a solid and steady work history. The chronological resume highlights career progression and is particularly effective for those looking to advance in the same field.

Best for: Seasoned professionals with consistent employment in their field.

Example: A marketing manager with 10 years of experience seeking to become a marketing director.

Functional Resume

This format emphasizes your skills and abilities rather than the chronological chronology of your professional experience. It's beneficial for those with career gaps in their employment, newcomers to the workforce or career changers, as it allows them to highlight how their skills transfer to the position they're applying for.

Best for: Career changers, individuals with employment gaps or those with diverse skill sets not tied to specific roles.

Example: A professional transitioning from a teaching career to a corporate training position, emphasizing skills in curriculum development, presentation and educational technology.

Combination Resume

A hybrid of the chronological and functional formats, this style allows you to showcase your relevant skills and work history. It's perfect for those with a solid employment record who also want to highlight specific skills that are particularly relevant to the job they're applying for.

Best for: Professionals with a robust work history and specific, transferable skills directly applicable to the job opening.

Example: A software developer with extensive experience in project management looking to focus on agile project management roles.

Step 3: Write a Compelling Resume Summary or Objective

Your summary or objective should introduce your resume and encapsulate your professional identity and value proposition, making a compelling case for why you're the ideal candidate for the position. Here's how to differentiate between the two and write them effectively:

Resume Summary

Ideal for experienced professionals, a summary provides a concise overview of your career achievements and key strengths. It highlights your experience, major accomplishments and the value you bring to a potential employer.

Example: "Customer Service Manager with over seven years of experience specializing in improving customer satisfaction and team performance. Achieved a 30% increase in customer satisfaction at XYZ Co., demonstrating proficiency in CRM software and effective team leadership."

Resume Objective

Best suited for those at the entry level, career changers or applicants with gaps in employment, an objective focuses on your career goals and how they align with the company's needs, emphasizing your enthusiasm and potential contributions.

Example: "Recent Computer Science graduate passionate about software development and problem-solving. Aiming to apply academic knowledge and innovative thinking in a Junior Developer role. Awarded university prize for excellence in project development, showcasing strong technical skills and creative solutions."

• Be Concise: Keep your summary or objective brief, targeting three to five lines.
• Showcase Your Value: Mention specific skills and experiences that align with the job description, indicating how you can solve problems or add value to the team.
• Use Active Language: Start sentences with action verbs and use the active voice to convey dynamism and proactivity.

Step 4: Detail Your Work Experience

The work experience section of your resume is where you showcase your professional journey and demonstrate your value to potential employers. Here's how you can effectively list your work experience:

Chronological Order

Begin with your most recent position and proceed backward in time. This format allows employers to quickly understand your current level of responsibility and track your career progression.

Dynamic Action Verbs

Initiate each bullet point with a strong action verb (e.g., led, developed, increased, optimized) to capture attention and actively convey your role in each achievement.

Quantify Achievements

Wherever possible, use numbers, percentages and specific outcomes to quantify your achievements. This approach provides tangible evidence of your contributions and impact on your roles.

Beyond Duties

Focus on your achievements in each position rather than simply listing job duties. Describe how you added value, solved problems or improved processes. This distinction helps employers gauge your potential impact on their organization.

Tailor to the Job

Select experiences and accomplishments most relevant to the position you're applying for. Tailoring this section to the job description ensures you highlight the skills and experiences that align closely with what the employer is seeking.

Step 5: Highlight Your Skills

The skills section can be an opportunity to respond directly to the job description's call for specific competencies. Follow these steps to make your skills section stand out:

Inventory Your Skills

Compile a comprehensive list of your skills, including technical skills and interpersonal skills. No skill is too small to consider.

Prioritize Relevant Skills

From your inventory, select the skills that most closely match the job description. These are the ones you should highlight in your resume.

Balancing Hard and Soft Skills

A well-rounded candidate possesses hard and soft skills . Hard skills demonstrate your specific qualifications for the job, while soft skills illustrate how you interact with others and approach your work.

Presenting Your Skills

When listing your skills, consider using bullet points for clarity and ease of reading. Provide brief examples of how you've applied each skill in a professional setting, either within the skills section itself or elsewhere in your resume.

Integrating Soft Skills Throughout

While it's important to list soft skills, you can also integrate them into your work experience and achievements.

Step 6: Include Your Education and Credentials

This section should highlight your academic achievements and underscore your commitment to professional development. Consider the following tips to showcase your education and credentials effectively:

List Your Highest Education First

Begin with the most advanced degree you've earned, followed by others in reverse chronological order. For each, include the degree type, your major, the name of the institution and your graduation year (or expected graduation year if you're currently enrolled).

Certifications and Licenses

List any professional certifications or licenses you hold, especially those directly relevant to the job. Include the name of the certification, the issuing organization and the date of attainment or expiration, if applicable.

Relevant Coursework, Honors and Awards

Mention any courses, honors or awards directly relevant to the job or that showcase exceptional achievement. Place these details under the appropriate educational entry, keeping the descriptions brief yet descriptive.

Formatting for Clarity

Use bullet points for each element to ensure the section is easily scannable. This helps potential employers quickly grasp your academic and professional learning achievements.

Prioritizing Information

Your educational background will be particularly important if you're starting your career or a recent graduate. In this case, consider placing your education section above your work experience. For those more advanced in their careers, education can follow the work experience section, focusing more on degrees and certifications than on coursework or honors.

• Master of Science in Data Analytics – XYZ University, 2023
• Specialization: Big Data Processing and Visualization Technique
• Honors: Received the Dean's Award for Outstanding Graduate Research

Certifications

• Certified Data Analyst – Data Science Institute, 2022

Step 7: Consider Optional Resume Sections

In addition to the essential components of your resume — such as your career summary, skills, work experience and education — consider including optional sections to further develop your brand, showcase a comprehensive skill set and stand out from other candidates. Select optional sections that add value and are relevant to the position you're applying for. Here are some possibilities:

Volunteer Work

Highlight significant volunteer roles and community service activities. These experiences can illustrate your commitment to social causes, leadership abilities and application of professional skills in a volunteer setting.

Detailing relevant certifications underscores your dedication to professional development and expertise in your field.

Share hobbies that reflect positively on your personality and offer insights into your soft skills, such as teamwork, creativity or leadership. Choose hobbies that are relevant or could contribute uniquely to the job.

Awards and Honors

Include professional or academic recognitions to emphasize your commitment to excellence and achievement in your career or field of study.

Listing language proficiencies can demonstrate your ability to communicate in diverse environments, an essential skill in many global or multicultural roles.

Professional Affiliations

Show your engagement with the professional community through memberships in associations, which can indicate a broader network and up-to-date industry knowledge

Step 8: Proofread and Format Your Resume

Errors, typos and inconsistencies in formatting can significantly detract from your professionalism and attention to detail. Here are some strategies to ensure your resume is polished and professional:

Be Consistent

Use a consistent format for headings, bullet points and fonts throughout your resume. This uniformity helps maintain a clean, professional look.

Choose a Professional Font

Use a professional, easy-to-read font such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman. Maintain a font size of 10 to 12 points for body text and slightly larger for headings.

Bullet Points

Use bullet points to list achievements and responsibilities, improving the document's readability and making it easier for employers to scan.

Margins and Spacing

Set your margins to 1" on all sides to create a balanced, uncluttered layout. Adequate spacing between sections further enhances readability.

Multiple Rounds of Proofreading

Go beyond a cursory spell check. Read your resume several times, each focusing on different elements — first for typos and grammar, then for consistency in formatting and finally for overall flow and persuasiveness.

Get a Second Opinion

Having someone else review your resume can provide valuable insights and catch errors you might have missed.

Use Digital Tools

Leverage grammar and spell-check tools like Grammarly or Microsoft Word's Review features for an additional layer of error checking.

Here's a list of valuable resources for crafting a standout resume that effectively navigates modern job application processes. Each offers unique insights and guidance tailored to different aspects of resume writing and job search strategies:

• GCFLearnFree.org : Features a wide range of guides, including formatting resumes for Applicant Tracking Systems and tailoring resumes to specific job applications​​.
• U.S. Department of Labor : Shares tips for writing a federal resume, including tailoring your resume to the job's requirements and selecting the right format​​.
• Workshops for Warriors : Provides targeted advice for veterans transitioning to civilian work, focusing on showcasing military training, certifications and soft skills​​.

About Nathan Paulus

Nathan Paulus is the Head of Content Marketing at MoneyGeek, with nearly 10 years of experience researching and creating content related to personal finance and financial literacy.

Paulus has a bachelor's degree in English from the University of St. Thomas, Houston. He enjoys helping people from all walks of life build stronger financial foundations.

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

Diversity and inclusion resume summary examples.

Approved by hiring managers, here are proven resume summary examples you can use on your Diversity and Inclusion resume. Learn what real hiring managers want to see on your resume, and when to use which.

• Diversity and Inclusion
• Director of Diversity and Inclusion
• Diversity and Inclusion Consultant
• Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator
• Diversity and Inclusion Program Manager
• Entry-Level Diversity and Inclusion Analyst
• Senior Diversity and Inclusion Manager
• Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion
• Diversity and Inclusion resume templates
• Similar summary examples

Diversity and Inclusion Resume Summary Example

Seasoned professional.

When you have significant experience, especially a decade or more, it's crucial to state it upfront. In a field like Diversity and Inclusion, that experience demonstrates a deep understanding of the complexities involved in driving organizational change.

Quantified Achievements

Quantifying your achievements gives hiring managers tangible evidence of your success. The 20% increase in diversity metrics isn't just a number - it's a clear indication of the impact you've made in your work.

Policy Creation

Your ability to construct inclusive policies showcases your proactive approach to diversity and inclusion. It's a sign that you don't just manage diversity and inclusion - you shape it.

Director of Diversity and Inclusion Resume Summary Example

Gender diversity accomplishments.

Achieving a 35% increase in gender diversity in technical roles is a major achievement and an essential highlight. This shows your commitment and effectiveness in promoting gender diversity in an industry that often struggles with it.

AI in Diversity and Inclusion

By leveraging AI tools to eliminate hiring and promotion bias, you're showcasing your forward-thinking approach. This demonstrates that you're not just keeping up with the latest developments in your field, but actually using them to drive progress.

A great resume can open doors to new opportunities. But a subpar one can keep you stuck in your job search. Our tool helps you create a resume that showcases your skills and experience in the best possible light. Get started now and see the difference for yourself.

Diversity and Inclusion Consultant Resume Summary Example

Diversity hiring strategy.

Implementing a diversity hiring strategy shows that you're proactive and strategic. It's evidence of your ability to bring about measurable change in an organization.

Diversity Audits

Your expertise in conducting diversity audits and recommending solutions illustrates a comprehensive approach to inclusion. You're not only identifying issues but also providing actionable steps to address them.

Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator Resume Summary Example

Retention improvements.

Retention is key in any organization, and improving it speaks volumes about your HR skills. It indicates that you create an environment where employees feel valued and want to stay.

Data Analysis Skills

Being adept with data analysis tools is a clear advantage. It shows that you're not just implementing initiatives, but tracking their impact and adjusting as necessary. This data-driven approach is increasingly vital in today's workplaces.

Diversity and Inclusion Program Manager Resume Summary Example

Showcase program management skills.

Highlight experience in developing and managing programs, especially in sectors where such skills are highly valued. This not only shows that you have the necessary skills to handle the responsibilities of the role, but also that you have a history of applying these skills effectively.

Quantify your impact

By indicating a concrete percentage increase in employee satisfaction, you're providing a clear measure of your past achievements. This makes your accomplishments more tangible and immediately understandable to recruiters.

Entry-Level Diversity and Inclusion Analyst Resume Summary Example

Bias research.

Conducting research on bias in hiring practices shows an academic understanding of the issues at hand. It indicates that you can leverage scholarly insights into practical outcomes, which is key for an entry-level role.

Proficiency in Data Analysis Tools

Proficiency in using SPSS for data analysis shows a strong technical skill set. This can set you apart from other candidates who may not have the same level of technical expertise.

Senior Diversity and Inclusion Manager Resume Summary Example

Management of global teams.

Managing a global team implies that you've navigated various cultures and regulatory environments. This is a mark of advanced leadership skills, demonstrating that you can drive diversity and inclusion across borders.

Minority Representation

Achieving a significant increase in minority representation in leadership roles is a noteworthy accomplishment. It proves that you can effect meaningful change where it's often hardest - at the top.

Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion Resume Summary Example

Demonstrate effectiveness with hard metrics.

Reducing discrimination complaints by any margin is a significant achievement, but providing a specific figure like 30% provides a clear and compelling picture of your effectiveness. It also shows your ability to contribute to a positive work environment.

Highlight career progression

Being promoted consistently in each company you've worked for is a strong testament to your skills, dedication, and the value you bring. Mentioning this shows you're not only capable, but you're also recognized and rewarded by your employers for your work.

Diversity and Inclusion Resume Templates

Social Worker

Other Resume Summary Examples

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• > Operations Manager Summary Examples

Other Resume Objective Examples

• > Executive Assistant Objective Examples
• > Operations Manager Objective Examples

Other Resume Guides

• > Executive Assistant Resume Guides
• > Operations Manager Resume Guides

Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

Job hoppers: How to present diverse work experience on your CV

By: Express KCS

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10 tips to write an impressive resume

I n the highly competitive job market, a captivating resume serves as your golden ticket to leave a lasting impact on potential employers. With the evolution of more sophisticated hiring processes, it's imperative to transcend the fundamentals and compose a resume that distinguishes you from the masses. Here are 10 expert suggestions to guide you in creating an impressive resume that effectively showcases your skills and experiences:

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Customize your resume for each job

Tailoring your resume is paramount. Scrutinize the job description and align your resume with the specific prerequisites of each position you pursue. Spotlight the skills and experiences most pertinent to the job, underscoring your suitability for the role.

Commence with a robust summary or objective

Initiate your resume with a succinct and impactful summary or objective statement. This segment should offer a snapshot of your professional background, accentuating your key strengths and career objectives.

READ ALSO: What is career rut and how to deal with it

Opt for a clean and professional format

Ensure your resume is visually appealing and easily digestible. Adopt a clean and professional format featuring consistent fonts and bullet points. Contemplate utilizing a contemporary template to impart a polished appearance to your resume.

Highlight achievements, not just responsibilities

Rather than merely cataloguing job duties, concentrate on quantifiable achievements. Illuminate specific accomplishments, employing metrics when feasible, to demonstrate your impact in prior roles.

Prioritize relevant experience

Position the most pertinent work experience prominently in your resume. Tailor the details of each job entry to underscore how your previous roles have equipped you for the specific position you are seeking.

Spotlight key skills

Devote a dedicated section to list both hard and soft skills relevant to the job. Integrate keywords from the job description to ensure your resume successfully navigates applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Integrate professional development and certifications

Manifest your commitment to continuous improvement by incorporating relevant professional development courses, certifications, or workshops. This signifies your dedication to staying abreast of developments in your field.

Quantify your achievements

Numbers carry weight. Whenever feasible, quantify your achievements to furnish tangible evidence of your impact. Whether it involves increasing sales, reducing costs, or enhancing efficiency, numerical figures bolster credibility.

READ ALSO: Virgo, Horoscope Today, January 18, 2024: your hardworking spirit shines

Showcase volunteer work and extracurricular activities

Infuse pertinent volunteer work and extracurricular activities to underscore your commitment to community involvement and your adeptness at managing diverse responsibilities.

Proofread and edited rigorously

A polished resume reflects your meticulous attention to detail. Scrutinize your document meticulously to catch any grammatical errors or typos. Enlist the input of peers or mentors for additional perspectives on refining your resume.

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