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What is a Resume? It's Much More Than You Think

6 min read · Updated on December 08, 2023

What is a resume, really? When created thoughtfully, it's a fantastic personal marketing document that gets employers to notice you in a crowd.

According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, a resume is “a short account of one's career and qualifications.” Investopedia calls it “a document that job applicants use to summarize their work experience, educational background, and special skills.”

A resume provides the first (and sometimes only) chance to make a good impression on a prospective employer or hiring manager and prove that you are a well-qualified and hirable candidate. 

And while these definitions are technically correct, a well-crafted resume is so much more. It's actually a personal marketing document that can be targeted to a specific job/career/industry and provide the most relevant information about your ability to succeed in that unique role.

If you're ready for a new perspective, read on for more answers to “What is a resume?”

It's choosing the right formatting

How you format your resume also plays a role in how well you can market yourself to employers. 

There are four generally accepted resume formats: Chronological, Functional, Combination, and Targeted. Your own personal history and the specific job you want will generally determine which resume format you should use.

Here's a breakdown of each format's pros and cons and the situations in which they work best.

Chronological Resume

This format has a professional summary or introduction at the top followed by your work history starting with your most recent job, which is called reverse-chronological order. It then can move on to special skills, professional affiliations, and educational history .

A chronological resume is probably the most-used format because it's appropriate for many scenarios, including people with various experience and skill levels. 

It's also the format that's most familiar to recruiters and hiring managers so they immediately know where to find details on work history, education, and competencies.

You really can't go wrong using this format.

Functional Resume

If you are changing careers or have some gaps in your work history, this format is a good choice because it's designed to focus attention on your skills and applicable experience rather than your chronological work history.

Sometimes called a hybrid resume, a functional resume leads with a more detailed introduction and is followed by a list of specific skills that show your fit for the position. After that comes a brief overview of your work history with just general details because you want your skills to get all the attention.

It's important to note that this type of resume needs to be done well to make a good impression on a hiring manager, so it might be worth using a professional resume writer who knows how to present any work gaps or career changes in the best possible light.

Combination Resume

This format uses the key aspects of both a chronological and functional resume. 

It's best for anyone with a long work history or a set of specialized skills that deserve attention because both skills and work history are equally highlighted to show the strength of your qualifications for a particular position.

Targeted Resume

As the name implies, this is a resume that's specifically targeted to each job you apply for. 

The first step is to review the job description for the skills and experience that a company wants in a candidate. Next, tailor your resume so it clearly shows off your relevant skills, making you well-qualified for the role. You can use the same structure as a functional resume or stick with the chronological format.

You may want to consider a professional resume writer to help with this format, too, since it can be tricky to get it just right.

Remember that there are other resume formats specifically for people in education, the arts, and even certain technical or business areas, so do your research to be sure you choose the format that will get you the attention you deserve.

It's highlighting your “soft skills”

The information presented thus far is about presenting your “hard skills” which are any skills that you've gained through hands-on experience or an educational process. These are generally what people think of when asked “What is a resume?”

However, you also want to present your soft skills to a potential employer--which can be a little tricky at first.

Soft skills are the traits, qualities, thought-processes, and ideologies that help you put your hard skills into practice. Examples of soft skills can include communication style, leadership abilities, motivational skills, and team-building strategies which are shown by listing specific achievements you've met.

For example, you can highlight motivational skills with a statement such as: Consistently kept my team meeting or beating deadlines through daily, weekly, or monthly rewards and open communication policies.

It's using sections wisely

The following sections should be on every resume, regardless of the format, and should be as tailored to the job as possible no matter what layout you choose.

Contact Information - Name, phone number, email address are standard. You can also add your Linked-In profile and website links if they exist.

Introduction - This can be a professional profile, a job or career objective, a summary of your qualifications for the job, or an overall summary of your resume. Keep it concise!

Skills - Be sure to also include soft skills. Just a list here; you'll highlight them through your achievements.

Achievements - These are actual examples of milestones you've met that have helped the company in some way. Another option is to include these as part of your work history.

Work History - Starting with the most recent job, list your job title, time worked, location, and specific duties, making sure to include what's most relevant to the job application.

Education - List the highest degree you've earned, the school name, and majors/minors if appropriate.

If you don't have a ton of work experience, you can also add a section for volunteer experience or professional associations that might highlight your ability to succeed at a particular job.

It's marketing yourself as a solution

A resume isn't just a document for you to toot your own horn. 

It's a vehicle to show potential employers how you can help them and their organizations to succeed because you're the best qualified person for their role.

So, what is a resume? It's a personal marketing document that, when used effectively, will make you stand out from other candidates in a huge way--and get you hired. 

Do you need a resume? You can get one written by one of TopResume's professional resume writers whether you need an update or a resume written from scratch: Professional Resume Writing Service . 

Recommended Reading:

Resume Examples & Samples for Every Career

Your Guide to Writing a Resume

How Long Should a Resume Be?

Related Articles:

High-Paying Careers: No Degree Required - Discover Now!

7 Best Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume + Examples

7 best time management skills on a resume (with examples)

See how your resume stacks up.

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What Is A Resume? (Definition, Types, Sections, Importance)

April 22, 2024

If you’ve recently started embarking on a job search, you might notice that job listings require a resume. If you’re new to the job hunt or have typically been hired from referrals or connections, you might not be familiar with what a resume is. This post will explain the resume definition, explore the types of resumes you can create, and the importance of creating a resume during the job search process.

Organize your job search. Huntr helps you track your job applications and keep your job search organized, all in one place.

What is a resume?

A resume is a document that lists your contact information, your work history, education credentials, skills, and a resume summary . Those looking for a job will often be required to apply to a job listing with a resume. A hiring manager will accept resumes via their career website, a third-party website, or through social media, in particular LinkedIn.

Types of resumes

1. reverse-chronological resume.

This is the most common resume format to use. And it’s the one hiring managers and recruiters prefer the most. A reverse chronological resume just means you list your work history from the most recent to the oldest. So, your last or current job would be included first. Then, you would include the role before that, and so on. The reason why this resume type is so common is because your accomplishments should be improving as you build your experience. So, naturally, your last job will have the most significant accomplishments on your resume.

2. Functional resume

A functional resume puts less emphasis on your work experience and more on your developed skills. This works best for those with career gaps, career changes, or new grads. It lists skills categories to highlight your abilities and achievements in these skills.

3. Combination resume

A combination resume is a mash-up of both reverse-chronological and functional resumes as the name suggests. You’ll include your most relevant work experience while also devoting a section to your skills. Both your work history and skills section will showcase why you’re qualified for a job. These days combination resumes work well to help you pass ATS-filters through relevant keyword matching while still showcasing that you do have the relevant work history to warrant serious consideration for the position you’re applying to.

Importance of creating a resume

1. you can’t get many jobs without one.

In some cases, you can apply for jobs through your connections, particularly in construction or similar industries. However, for office jobs or for jobs that are highly sought after, you’ll need to write a resume to land a position there. Most jobs do require resumes and some even require cover letters too. Jobs often require a resume so they can learn more about you. It’s hard to know who you are without the context of your work experience and educational credentials. And when it comes to hiring people don’t want to hire just anybody, they want to hire the best. So, naturally, they read over resumes to determine whether or not you’re a good fit for a role.

2. It’s an employer’s first impression of you

A resume is an employer’s first impression of you. Provided that you applied online, you’ll likely have your resume scanned quickly by a hiring manager (usually they scan for only a couple of seconds). So, your resume needs to be impactful and scannable to help you better land your next role. You’ll want to use data like KPIs you achieved or tasks you completed, such as the number of projects you developed. Anything you can add to your resume that’ll make a positive first impression on your accomplishments, work ethic, and what you’re capable of doing will be key to helping you land that next role. So, having a good resume will ensure your employer’s first impression of you is favorable.

3. Helps you stand out in the job search

While it’s true that almost everyone will be handing in a resume when looking for a job, you can use your resume to stand out in the job search. After all, these are your list of greatest work accomplishments. What makes you unique? How are you the best hire for this position? Incorporating these answers into your resume through your big achievements will help you stand out. Instead of listing the duties and responsibilities you did, you share what you achieved in your previous roles. And by doing that you’ll be able to better stand out amongst other job seekers. The content of your resume does get read even if only for a short few seconds. So those accomplishments have to be big.

4. It highlights your skills

The importance of a resume is that it helps highlight your skills. Through your achievements, you demonstrate what you’ve learned and mastered over the years through your job. Your skills get added to your skills section, but they’re also showcased in your resume bullet points too. Showing your accomplishments proves that you’ve really honed in and learned the skills deeply to achieve a goal, huge target, or other accomplishment. Recruiters and hiring managers look through your resume to see if you have the skills required to do the job they’re hiring for. So, not only do you want to list the skills but you want to illustrate how you’ve mastered them.

5. Explains what you’ll offer employers

A resume details what you’ll offer employers. So, what are the skills, accomplishments, and work ethic you’ll be delivering when you start the role. A resume gives people a peek into what you’re capable of. If you have really outstanding accomplishments, employers will imagine the possibilities of hiring you on their team. It allows them to envision a brighter future at the company with you on board. A resume showcases how much effort you’ll put into a job by digging deep into what you’ve done in the past.

6. Can help you land an interview

And ultimately, the goal of a resume is to help you land an interview so you can eventually secure a job. If your resume is impressive to a hiring manager, they’ll call you or email you to let you know they’d like to chat further about your professional experience.

Who needs a resume?

A resume is needed by anyone looking for a job. If you’re planning to apply for a position online, you’ll need a resume to complete the application process. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been working for 25 years or are looking for your first job. You’ll likely need to present a resume to a hiring manager to be considered for a role. If you are looking to land a job by going to the business directly, you’ll likely hand in a resume in person. In general, a resume is the document you’ll need to create to be able to be considered for an interview.

Mandatory sections of a resume

The most important part of your resume is the contact section. While it doesn’t share the insights into your career, it does share how to reach you. If you don’t have a valid email address or phone number on your resume, you won’t get any call backs. So, double checking the information for accuracy is key. You’ll want to have a professional email address listed, such as your name with a number or two at the end in case you have a common name.

A resume summary is a one to two sentence summary about yourself and why you’re a great fit for the position. You want to highlight your main value proposition for why you should be considered for the role, although you never explicitly state that. For example, a resume summary might read, “Results-driven sales professional with over 10 years of experience. Proven track record of generating over $30 million in sales. Skilled at relationship building and closing deals through effective product-client fit.”

3. Work experience

Your work experience is the main focus of your resume. This is where you have to best sell yourself as the perfect candidate for a role. You’ll want to include your biggest achievements in all your roles. Focusing on achievements instead of duties will help ensure you showcase why you’re the most qualified candidate for a position. Include between 3-5 bullets per job, and include about three of your most recent and relevant positions. That’ll most likely keep the resume to one page. You don’t want to include your entire work history on your resume. And while one to two pages is standard for a resume, it’s best to keep it to one page.

4. Education

Including your education is crucial to showcase where you first learned the skills. For example, an engineer needs to include proof that they went to school for engineering and are qualified and legally allowed to work as an engineer. A doctor also needs to have graduated from medical school. So, including your education is important. If you’ve been out of school for over 10 years, you can remove your graduation year. Hiring managers do require certain certifications or degrees for certain roles, so having that education can help you land better positions.

While both your education and work experience will show how you developed your skills, it doesn’t hurt to include keywords in your resume. ATS filters resumes for keywords. So, with technology possibly rejecting your resume without anyone looking at it first, it’s crucial to ensure you add the relevant skills or keywords listed in a job listing to better pass the ATS filters so you can inch closer to landing that interview. There are resume tailor tools that highlight the keywords in a job listing to allow you to add them to your resume in only a couple of clicks. Adding keywords of skills you’ve developed is a common practice and crucial so you can ensure your resume better aligns with what the hiring manager is looking for.

Optional sections of a resume

1. certifications or licenses.

Some jobs require specialized certifications or licenses to be able to perform required duties. For example, a nurse may be required to be certified in first aid, CPR, and so on. Mechanics often need ASE certifications. Servers and bartenders need certifications to be able to sell alcohol to others. You also need a specialized license to drive a forklift. So, depending on what job you’re applying for, you might need to list your certifications and licenses (and make sure they’re still valid).

2. Languages

In some roles where being multilingual is necessary, you’ll want to list the languages you speak fluently. For example, in Canada some roles require employees to be bilingual in English and French. Alternatively, in some roles, such as Embassy offices, language schools, or community centers for ethnicities, you might be required to speak two languages fluently.

Have you ever won an award for something in your career? If so, you might add awards or honors on your resume to better stand out as a candidate.

4. Volunteer work

In cases where you’ve done relevant volunteer work, you might choose to list your work on your resume. This is more common for students and new grads with little work experience. It’s not as common to be used in working professionals. However, if you want to share some volunteer work on your resume to showcase your qualifications, you can list the achievements you’ve had in your volunteer experiences.

5. Publications

Have you ever had your work published online? If so, you can share links to the publications that either wrote about you or that you wrote for.

Time to create a resume

Now that you know what a resume is, it’s time to craft your first resume. You can use a resume builder like Huntr to build your resume for the role you’re applying to. Huntr’s AI resume builder helps you craft your resume with step by step guidance and a little help from AI. It also includes a resume checker , which grades your resume to ensure you have all the relevant details needed. If you’re planning to create a resume, sign up for Huntr today !

Nicole Martins Ferreira

Nicole Martins Ferreira, Senior Writer at Huntr, brings a rich background in marketing, tech, and ecommerce to craft insightful content on job search strategies and career advancement. With experience from Super Magic Taste to Shopify, she excels in creating engaging, actionable advice for job seekers. Nicole's expertise in SEO and content marketing, honed across diverse roles, enables her to effectively guide individuals through the complexities of the job market. Her contributions at Huntr are vital, offering readers valuable tips and strategies to navigate their professional journeys successfully, making her work an invaluable resource for job seekers everywhere.

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

In This Guide:

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

• Resume Templates

Personal Details and Contact Information

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

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

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

We are going to cover some basic topics like:

• What is a resume
• Resume format and layout

As well as some more advanced ones like:

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

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

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

So let’s dive in.

What is a resume?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preparation before writing a resume

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

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

What you need to do is get a list of:

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

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

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

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

Format and Layout

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pick the right font and font size:

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

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

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

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

But don’t worry, we got you covered.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check them all and win the resume game.

Resume Structure

Okay, we are doing great so far!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The work experience is the heart of your resume.

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

The basics of this section should include:

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

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

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

Results matter and numbers are important.

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

Perfect this section by checking out - Work Experience Section .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hard Skills

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

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

Soft Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Certifications, Awards, & Honors

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

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

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

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

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

Here are a few sections that you can consider:

• Publications
• Volunteering
• Hobbies & Interests

Tailor Your Information to the Job Ad

So far, so good.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And quite often they are a dealbreaker for the employer.

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

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

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

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

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

Takeaways: What is a resume?

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(2024) What Is a Resume? Explore the Latest Resume Examples & Templates, Standard Formats & Writing Tips

A resume, sometimes also known as a Curriculum Vitae (CV) , is a necessary formal document for job seeking process. A strong resume can help grab the attention of employers and can be the key to landing an interview. But "what is a resume?" you might ask.

In this blog post, we'll share with you all-thing resumes, from its definition and types to writing tips and best practices for creating a compelling one, whether you are a recent graduate or already an experienced professional, or even someone who wants to transition to a new career, this blog will provide you with the essential knowledge and resume builder tools to create a standout resume. 

Table of Contents

What Is a Resume?

How to choose the best resume format.

• 11 Essential Resume Section (+Examples)

Which Resume Templates Should I Use?

• 5 Writing Tips for a Convincing Resume
• Example of a Good Resume
• Key Takeaways

The term resume (or résumé) is a French-derive word that means a summary, and that's essentially what a resume is: a one-page document summarizing applicants' skills, work experience, educational background, and information that are relevant to the job you're applying for.

With that being said, “what is the primary purpose of a resume,” then, you might ask? 

Straightforwardly, a resume is often used to help you get a job, isn't it?

True, but not really . While it won't guarantee employment, a well-crafted resume can help you secure an interview by showcasing your skills and qualifications. This one-page document is your opportunity to make a positive first impression, sell yourself, and convince your potential employers that you're the most suitable candidate for the vacancy, and demonstrate what you can bring to the table. Although it's recommended to tailor your resume to each job you apply for, some core elements should always be present.

Resume vs. CV: What Are the Main Differences?

In some countries, the term "resume" is often used interchangeably with "curriculum vitae" (CV) despite their slight differences: while a resume is a summary of your relevant skills and qualifications for a particular position, a CV is more about your course of life as it contains a detailed academic record that includes all of your professional experiences, certifications, publications, and achievement.

A simpler curriculum vitae's definition is that CVs are commonly used by those pursuing fellowships, grants, postdoctoral positions, teaching or research positions at the post-secondary level, or in high-level research positions in the industry. While graduate school applications may request a CV, they generally prefer a resume that includes details of research projects and publications.

Suppose you plan to apply for both academic and private or public sector industries; you'll need to create both documents. If you're unsure which document to submit for a job application, it's always best to ask for clarification.

There are three main resume formats —chronological, functional, and combination resume. Each format serves different purposes based on work history and the job applied for. Let's break down the definition of each so that you can pick the most suitable format that suits your needs best.

1. Reverse chronological resume

A chronological resume , also known as a reverse chronological resume, is a resume format that lists your work experience from the latest to the oldest. By highlighting the most recent experience, employers can check if you've been working in the same industry or a similar position so that they can save training effort after hire. The more relevant you are, the more competitive edge you gain.

This resume is most suitable for those who have been working in the same industry or the same profession and have years of experience. Fresh grads who have several internship experiences can also leverage this resume format, as it's one of the most common resume types.

• Recruiters are often familiar with this resume format.
• Recruiters can scan through the highlighted professional experience more easily.
• You can showcase your work experience and achievements in the most logical way. 
• The layout and format are commonly used, which makes it hard to stand out, especially in the creative industry.
• There is not much emphasis on one’s relevant skills and capabilities.
• Job-changing histories and employment gaps are accentuated.

2. Functional resume

If you want to highlight your skills , then a functional resume format is what you should consider. Instead of focusing on the work experience, a functional resume helps highlight your skills and how they'll benefit the job you're applying for.

Unlike the chronological resume format, the functional one lists your skills as the main section, with work and experience and other details following afterward. One tip for writing an effective functional resume is that the details of the skills mentioned should also be included as sub-points. If you're a job hopper or someone who's planning to change careers , change industry or has an employment gap that you prefer not to show the employer, a functional resume will be the perfect choice for you.

• Highlight your skills effectively, giving recruiters more information on how you can benefit their companies.
• Hide employment gaps.
• De-emphasize the job hopping scene, which can negatively impact recruiters' decisions.
• Be flexible, as you can make more subtle changes.
• It might draw the employer’s attention to the covered-up work experience.
• It cannot show career growth.
• Recruiters might not be familiar with the format.

3. Combination resume

As the name suggests, a combination resume is a format that combines elements of both chronological and functional resumes, including work experience and relevant skills. It is also commonly referred to as a hybrid resume.

This type of resume format is very flexible as it allows you to adjust to the job vacancy's requirements. It doesn't matter if you have much or negligible working experience; this hybrid resume format can balance out the information to present yourself better.

• Allows you to utilize your information to the needs of a position fully.
• Allows you to avoid including employment gaps.
• Can impress employers with detailed qualifications and skills.
• Career growth is not shown at first sight.
• The design might be overcrowded if the layout is not well-crafted.
• Traditional employers might not accept it.

11 Essential Resume Elements & Sections

A resume serves as your first impression to potential employers before any face-to-face interaction, so understanding what to include is crucial. Here are the key elements that should be on your resume and how to write them:

Resume Header

Resume header is the top section that contains your essential information. Typically, it includes your full name, phone number, professional email address. You can also consider adding your LinkedIn profile and other relevant professional social media handles. Having these details prominently displayed allows employers to contact you for further information quickly or to schedule an interview. 

Make sure that this information is accurate and up-to-date, as it is the primary means employers will communicate with you.

💡 Pro tip :   Professional headshots are optional and depend on industry, job, and company requirements. So, make sure to check those details out before including your headshot in.

Resume Summary

A resume summary or bio often follows a resume header. While the header contains your basic information, the summary or bio section provides a brief overview of your professional background, fundamental skills, and career objectives (sometimes people like to opt out of the resume summary but only keep the career objectives ; again, this is entirely up to you and your goals).

This summary should be concise and tailored to the job you are applying for, offering a snapshot of what makes you a strong candidate.

💡 Pro tip:  Avoid making vague statements; if you don't have anything significant to share about your career objectives, it's better not to mention them.

By placing the summary below the header, you create a logical flow that quickly informs employers about who you are and what you bring to the table. Here are some examples of good resume summary paragraph:

"Experienced IT professional with over 8 years of expertise in systems administration, network management, and cybersecurity. Proficient in managing large-scale IT projects, optimizing system performance, and implementing robust security protocols. Strong problem-solving skills with a proven track record of enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring data integrity in fast-paced environments."

"Creative marketing specialist with 5 years of experience in digital marketing, content creation, and brand management. Skilled in developing and executing marketing campaigns that drive engagement and increase sales. Proficient in SEO, social media strategy, and data analytics. Adept at leveraging market trends to deliver compelling messages and grow brand presence."

"Dedicated early childhood teacher with 6 years of experience nurturing young minds in preschool and kindergarten settings. Passionate about fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports the developmental needs of each child. Skilled in curriculum development, classroom management, and engaging parents in the educational process. Committed to cultivating curiosity and a love of learning in every student."

Educational background

If you are a fresher , your educational background will be fundamental as it helps recruiters to have a general idea of who you are, based on your majors and GPA/grades. When listing education in your resume , make sure to include the school name, the attendance year, degree, and GPA.

💡 Pro tip: Only include your GPA if it is above 3 or 3.5.

Here are some examples of how you should format the educational background section:

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

• Master of Science in Computer Science University of California, Berkeley, CA Graduated: May 2016
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Stanford University, Stanford, CA Graduated: May 2014
• Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing New York University, New York, NY Graduated: May 2019
• Associate Degree in Communications Community College of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA Graduated: May 2017

Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education University of Georgia, Athens, GA Graduated: May 2024

Relevant Coursework:

• Child Psychology and Development
• Classroom Management Strategies
• Early Literacy Instruction
• Curriculum Planning and Assessment
• Inclusive Education Practices
• Educational Technology in Early Childhood

Work Experience

The working experience section is the main part of your resume (most of the time). When employers review the working experience section, they typically focus on four main things: your previous job title, the company you worked for, your primary responsibilities and the duration of your employment. But extra information about your achievement will gain you competitive edge.

For instance, if you assisted your previous employers in acquiring 10,000 potential customers from their most recent conference, you may want to provide a brief overview of the event and outline the actions you took to achieve this result.

Here is an example of how you can include work experience on your resume:

WORK EXPERIENCE

Digital Marketing Manager—  XYZ Agency, New York, NY (September 2019 - Present)

• Develop and execute digital marketing strategies across multiple channels, including social media, email, and PPC advertising.
• Analyze campaign performance metrics and leverage data insights to optimize marketing efforts and drive ROI.
• Lead a team of marketing professionals in the creation of compelling content and engaging campaigns.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their business objectives and tailor marketing strategies to meet their needs.

Marketing Coordinator— ABC Company, Chicago, IL (June 2017 - August 2019)

• Assisted in the development and implementation of marketing campaigns to increase brand awareness and generate leads.
• Managed company social media accounts to build brand loyalty and drive engagement.
• Conducted market research and competitor analysis to identify trends and opportunities for growth.
• Coordinated marketing events and promotions, including trade shows, conferences, and product launches.

📚 Further reading: Haven't gotten any working experience yet? Learn How to Include Projects in Resumes (Samples, Tips, Templates)

One thing you can do to make your resume go from ordinary to exceptional is to include relevant skills. The selected skills need to be pertinent to who you are and the jobs you're applying for.

The skills included should categorize into hard skills and soft skills.

Hard skills are technical knowledge that you can acquire through training and practice. These skills are often measurable; for example, proficiency in specific software applications or programming languages qualifies as hard skills.

Meanwhile, soft skills are personality traits that make you a good fit for the position. These traits are subjective and may be challenging to quantify in terms of proficiency. Examples of soft skills include strong leadership , effective communication , and the ability to collaborate seamlessly within a team .

Certifications & licenses

Certain professions, such as  accountant , teacher , and civil engineer require official certifications or licenses . These credentials are not only regulatory requirements but also serve as powerful indicators of your credibility and qualifications for roles with high-level education prerequisites.

Here are examples of how to can include certifications and licenses on your resume:

Certifications and Licenses

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), State Board of Accountancy, California, 2019
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), CFA Institute, 2024
• Early Childhood Education Credential, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), 2022
• Teaching Certificate, California Department of Education, 2023
• Professional Engineer (PE) License, California State Board of Professional Engineers, 2021
• LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP), U.S. Green Building Council, 2020

Language skills

Being bilingual or multilingual is beneficial because employers want someone who can represent the company overseas or work with foreign partners and clients. Including your  language skills  on your resume can greatly enhance your appeal to employers. 

Don't forget to include your proficiency level: native, bilingual proficiency, professional working proficiency, or elementary level. Be sure to specify your proficiency level—whether native, bilingual proficiency, professional working proficiency, or elementary level—providing valuable insight into your language abilities. This demonstrates your capacity to navigate diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes, underscoring your readiness for cross-border responsibilities.

Awards & honors

Awards and honors from competitions can be an impressive addition to your resume, especially if you’re a fresh graduate looking for a job. If you received any awards or honors for either outstanding academic or non-academic performance, mention them both.

Volunteer work shows your kind-hearted personality and how you apply certain skills to practice. You can list volunteer work experiences on your resume and details of what you've done. Remember that the skills applied in volunteer work should be related to the position you're applying for.

Here's how you can include volunteer experience on your resume:

Animal Shelter Volunteer

• Assisted with daily care tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and exercising animals.
• Provided support during adoption events, interacting with potential adopters and facilitating successful matches.
• Utilized strong communication skills to educate visitors about responsible pet ownership and shelter programs.

Relevant Skills Demonstrated:

• Animal care and handling
• Customer service
• Communication skills
• Teamwork and collaboration

Publications

If you've written a thesis, contributed to a journal or research, or published books, articles, or news, you can provide information about these publications on your resume . This illustrates professional knowledge of a certain topic and can be part of your portfolio .

Including details of projects you've worked on on your resume provides employers with valuable insights into your accomplishments and practical application of skills. This not only showcases your abilities but also offers employers a clearer understanding of your level of experience.

For recent graduates or individuals with limited work experience, elaborating on projects can serve as a substitute for traditional work experience, demonstrating your capability to undertake real-world tasks and contribute meaningfully to projects. By highlighting specific project contributions and outcomes, you effectively convey your potential and readiness to excel in a professional setting.

When applying for a job, having a well-crafted resume can help you stand out among other applicants. The layout and design of a resume can make a significant difference in how potential employers receive it. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a resume template that is both visually appealing and functional. 

Opt for a resume template that:

1) Clear and Easy-to-Read Format: 

• Utilizes clean and modern design elements to enhance readability.
• Consistent formatting and organization for a professional appearance.
• Adequate white space to avoid clutter and improve visual appeal.

2) Sections for Key Information:

• Education: Includes details of academic qualifications, such as degrees, diplomas, and certifications.
• Work Experience: Highlights professional background, with clear details of your job titles, company names, dates of employment, and key responsibilities.
• Skills: Showcases relevant technical and soft skills essential for the targeted job role.
• Accomplishments: Provides space to highlight notable achievements and contributions in previous roles.

3) Emphasis on Skills and Experience:

• Prioritizes showcasing relevant skills and experiences tailored to the job requirements.
• Utilizes action verbs and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate competency and effectiveness.
• Highlights transferable skills and experiences applicable across various roles and industries.

4) Customizable and Versatile:

• Allows for easy customization to tailor the resume to specific job applications.
• Adaptable to showcase diverse skill sets and experiences for different career paths.
• Compatible with applicant tracking systems (ATS) for seamless resume submission and parsing.

CakeResume offers a diverse selection of 50+ free ATS-friendly resume templates and snippets designed to meet your needs. With our intuitive drag-and-drop editor, you can easily customize your resume by rearranging sections to your liking. The best part? You can download your finalized resume in PDF format at no cost or share it online with ease. Ready to elevate your job application? Sign up for CakeResume today!

5 Writing Tips for a Good Resume 

Here are some tips that not only create an outstanding resume but will also help you look good on a resume:

1. Customize your resume to match the job description

While your resume is meant to showcase who you are as a potential employee, employers also have specific requirements they seek in candidates. As such, it's crucial to tailor your resume to include relevant information that aligns with the job description while excluding those that don't.

2. Proofread again and again

Given the high number of resumes that hiring managers receive, they can easily spot even the slightest error. Thus, to avoid such mistakes, always proofread your resume before submitting it.

3. Utilize action words

Action words are constructive in showcasing what you have done in previous jobs. Thus, utilizing them when highlighting your skills and achievements is advisable as they can significantly impact how employers view and understand you.

4. Use relevant keywords

For big companies that receive thousands of resumes,  Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) can help filter out applications by identifying keywords that match the job requirements. Therefore, incorporating relevant keywords is crucial. The best way to identify relevant keywords is by referring to the job description for skill-related keywords and incorporating them accordingly.

5. Maintain a clean and well-organized resume format

A well-organized resume format can enhance readability and help hiring managers locate information quickly. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Maintain 1-inch margins on all sides of the document.
• Use an appropriate font size (11pt or 12pt) and style.
• Group related information under different sections for better viewing.
• Use bullet points to highlight key details.

📚 Further reading:  10 Best Resume Fonts for ATS-friendly Resumes (Correct Font Size, Type, Style)

Resume Example

Now that you know what to include in a resume, all about resume templates and format, it’s time for us to show you what a concise resume should look like! Check this out:

Peter Simson

Developmental Editor

098-1234567 Taoyuan city  [email protected]

RESUME SUMMARY

A 3-year experience English lecturer at National Taiwan University(NTU). Seeking a career change to a developmental editor to extend my skills into different fields. Planning to join the editor field and help authors refine their works while learning more different skills. 

English Lecturer  National Taipei University (NTU) 2016 - 2022

• Taught university students English writing classes.
• Judged and organized English writing competitions.
• Counseled students who needed help.

Freelance Translator 2015 - 2020

• Translated advertisements for multiple companies.
• Proofread translation works from other translators.
• Focused on English - Chinese translations. 

National Taiwan University (NTU)  Foreign Languages and Applied Linguistics 2012 - 2015

GPA 3.9/4.0

Hard Skills:

• Microsoft Office
• Time management skills
• Organizational skills
• Attention to detail

Soft Skills:

• Problem-solving skills
• Emotional intelligence
• Openness to feedback

Language Skills:

• English: Fluent
• Chinese: Native
• French: Intermediate

Key Takeaways

Now that you know the resume definition, here are some key takeaways that you should keep in mind: a resume is a critical document that summarizes your education, work experience, skills, and achievements. It is an essential tool that helps you present yourself to potential employers and showcase your suitability for a specific job position. The information presented in your resume should be tailored to the job description to demonstrate how you can add value to the organization. 

CakeResume is a free online resume builder that is useful for anyone looking to create an online presence, whether you’re a recent graduate, a freelancer, or an established professional looking to showcase your work. With the help of CakeResume’s rich library of resume templates and online resources, crafting an outstanding, ATS-friendly resume has never been easier. Following the tips and guidelines outlined in this blog, you can create a compelling resume highlighting your unique skills and experience, increasing your chances of landing your dream job.

CakeResume is a  resume builder that allows users to create professional online resumes and portfolios, which can also serve as personal web pages. With its simple and intuitive interface, users can effortlessly build their professional online resumes and portfolios and showcase their skills and accomplishments to potential recruiters and employers.

Create Resume

--- Originally written by Ryan Goh ---

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What Is a Resume?

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

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What Is a Resume? Its Purpose and What Should Not Be on Yours

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

Investopedia / Jiaqi Zhou

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

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

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

Whatever the format, most resumes include a brief summary of skills and experience, followed by a bullet list of previous jobs in reverse chronological order and a list of degrees earned.

A final section might be added to highlight specific skills, such as fluency in a foreign language, knowledge of computer languages, professionally useful hobbies, professional affiliations, and any honors achieved.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Are Common Resume Mistakes?

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

Should I Create More Than One Resume?

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

What If I Do Not Have Any Work Experience?

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

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

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

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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 . 

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

• Know the Difference Between Job application and Resume

Knowing the difference between a job application and a resume is of paramount importance. The process of applying for a job include submitting two different types of documents: a resume and a job application. At first glance, it can seem that these are two similar documents with the same information, but you are mistaken. Let’s discover what is the essential distinction between them in order not to screw up your employment process.

What Is a Job Application ?

A standard job application is a legal document required by the Human Resources department. It is a brief paper listing your essential qualification without explanation. For an employer job application serves to compare you fast to other candidates. A job application is a chronological laconic document of 1 or 2 pages. It also includes information that is never included in a resume: birth date, Social Security Number, driver’s license number, verification of military experience and training and even an inquiry about your criminal past. Usually, in a job application, you will be required to include full start/end dates of employment (month, day, year), names of previous manager, company name and location. The employer needs this info to verify your employment. You will also be asked to fill the salary history and current salary requirements. In some cases, employers can ask to add information concerning your GPA, semester hours and grades for certain subjects. You don’t have to include any additional information or special skills for job applications.

General Job Application Dos and Don'ts

Before filling out a job application, check out these dos and don’ts that will help you to create a correct one.

Job Application Dos:

• First of all, read the application form carefully before filling it. You have to follow strictly all the directions.
• Putting Social Security Number on job applications is obligatory.
• Make sure you include correct employment dates.
• Of course, you have to check your application for grammar or spelling errors.
• One of the biggest mistakes of all job seekers is not to contact their references before the application process begins. Call and make sure they know you want them to be your references.

Job Application Don’ts:

• Most importantly, never lie. All the information should be proven because it is a legal document.
• Do not exaggerate your experience, skills, abilities, because an employer will reveal the truth.
• Don’t leave any unfilled gaps.
• Don’t write ‘see resume’ for questions that require some wide explanation.

Your job application is very important. If an employer decides to hire you, a background check based on your application is inevitable, so prepare it thoroughly.

What Is a Resume?

A resume is the most common document required from job applicants. Typically, a resume is a brief summary of all skills, abilities, qualification, work history and educational background of a candidate. There are three resume types: chronological (the most common), functional and combination. Include a job history summary where you will explain why you are the best fit for a position and what are your main career goals. You can mention additional information on resume like training, licenses, language proficiency, but all the data provided should be relevant to a desired position. Writing a perfect resume is daunting, but check out the instruction that will facilitate this process.

Typical Resume Dos and Don'ts

Follow these simple guidelines in order to create an outstanding professional resume.

Common Resume Dos:

• Focus on your strengths. Include only your best characteristics and experience that will prove your professionalism and will convince an HR to hire you.
• It is imperative to tailor your resume to each specific position. Instead of mass mailing the same resume, make some adjustment to show your interest exactly in a certain job opening.
• Before sending a resume, proofread it multiple times. Errors and typos will kill your success on the spot.
• Choose an appropriate resume format that will fit the company’s culture.

Common Resume Don’ts:

• Don’t forget to list everything in reverse chronological order.
• Don’t put any irrelevant information. Even if you are proud of it, but it won’t make any difference to a recruiter - erase it immediately.
• Don’t forget that a resume is a concise document. Its length should be 1 page, in some exceptional cases, it can contain 2 pages.
• Don’t go into detail - 5 bullet points covering your essential duties will be more than enough.

Knowing the difference between a resume and a job application along with basic guidance on how to write perfect documents will lead you to success in your job search!

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100 Good Skills to Put on a Resume [Complete Guide]

Jeff Gillis 0 Comments

By Jeff Gillis

Updated 6/4/2022.

When you’re adding skills to a resume, you don’t just want to focus on what you’re good at. Instead, relevancy has to be part of the equation. After all, every job you’re trying to land requires a very specific skill set, one that you need to show that you have.

Choosing the skills to put on a resume when you’re applying to a role isn’t something you should do haphazardly. Instead, you want to use the job description, company mission, and company values as a guide, creating a sense of alignment.

Additionally, it never hurts to have a handy list of skills by your side, making it easier to explore your options. So, if you’re on the hunt for good skills to put on a resume, here’s what you need to know.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills

There are two basic types of skillsets that a job seeker can have and include on their resume: hard skills or soft skills.

Hard skills are the skills or abilities for a resume that are easily quantifiable…that can be learned through classroom work, apprenticeships, or other forms of learning. These include things like operating tools, computer programming, speaking foreign languages, or different kinds of technical prowess.

Soft skills are more subjective and harder to quantify and are often grouped together by what we know as “people skills.” Some examples of soft skills include communication, relationship building, self-awareness, and patience.

Which Skills Are More Important?

The debate rages on about which of these two types of skills is more important.

According to executive consultant and Forbes contributor Naz Beheshti , “…There is an ongoing debate about the relative importance of soft and hard skills that imply a competition between the two. However, they are both necessary and complementary to one another.”

On the one hand, job seekers with proficiency in a specific hard skill may get hired more quickly. Many employers want to hire people that can deliver value with fewer resources (ex., the need for training, etc.), making hard skills their priority.

However, we are also seeing that many hiring managers are choosing to hire candidates with highly developed soft skills.

In the end, as Indeed puts it, “soft skills are necessary to create a positive and functional work environment.” Plus, hiring managers feel that they can always train the candidate in the hard skill that is required to complete the job, but soft skills are often skills that cannot necessarily be taught.

So, what does this mean for you? Mainly that you can’t simply just pick one or the other and cross your fingers. Instead, the best strategy is to take a balanced approach and make sure that your resume contains both hard and soft skills.

How Do You Choose the Skills to List on a Resume?

Here’s the deal; there’s a good chance you know what you’re good at in a professional sense. Often, you can use your experience, duties, training, and education as a guide, giving you a strong foundation. Then, it’s about diving a bit deeper, looking at traits that could help you stand out, and comparing it all to the job description.

By using a simple process, you can make progress faster. Here’s a quick way to get started.

1. Make a List of the Skills You Know You Have

As mentioned above, the easiest way to get a grip on your current skills is to reflect on your academic and professional experiences. Consider the tasks you’ve taken on, the training you’ve completed, and the courses you had in school. In most cases, that’ll give you some solid ideas about your hard skills.

After that, it’s time for soft skills. Here, you want to think of traits or capabilities that help you engage with others and navigate professional relationships. Often, these are reflections of your personality, so use that as a jumping-off point.

2. “Mine” the Job Descriptions for Must-Have Skills

The next step is to take a look at the job description for the position you are applying for and make a list of the required skills it includes. Then, compare it to your capabilities. Are any of the skills on both of the lists you just created? If so, these are must-haves for your resume.

Now, notice if there are any skills on the job description that you don’t have. If there aren’t any, great!

But if there are…don’t panic. There are things you can do, which we’ll dig into shortly.

If you’re dealing with a vague job description, you aren’t stuck either. Here is a link to a ton of job descriptions that can give you an idea of the skills needed.

3. Tailor Your Skills to the Company/Position

As you may have read in our other blog articles, it is always very important to “tailor” your resume to the company and position you want to land. For an in-depth look into how to make that happen, check out our Tailoring Method article. 

If you want a quick overview, the idea is to focus on capabilities the company wants to find. Every job requires a unique skill set, and you want to show you have it. As a result, it is absolutely essential that skills from the job description make an appearance on your resume.

However, you also want to dig deeper. Spend some more time researching the company, including going through all of their various web properties, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube pages.

Why? Because they will leave clues about the types of people they hire. That gives you more ideas about the best skills to put on a resume to land a job there, particularly when it comes to soft skills you may not find in a job description.

100 Resume Skills Examples

If you’re struggling with coming up with a list of skills based on your past experience, it can be easier if you have existing resume skills lists to work with. You don’t have to think up every possible skill; you can simply review the list and find the matches.

Here is a list of resume skills examples, divided into hard skills and soft skills, that you can use when applying for a job.

Hard Skills for a Resume

• Advanced Bookkeeping
• Appointment Setting
• Automotive Repair
• Cold Calling
• Computer Programming
• Conversion Testing
• Copywriting
• Customer Engagement
• Customer Service
• Data Analysis
• Digital Marketing
• Electrical Engineering
• Environmental Cleanup
• Forklift Operating
• Graphic Design
• Heavy Machinery Operation
• Installation
• Landscaping
• Mathematics
• Medical Coding
• Paid Online Traffic
• Patient Care
• Photo Editing
• Picking and Packing
• Project Management
• Schedule Management
• Search Engine Optimization
• Server Maintenance
• Social Media
• Spanish Fluency
• Statistical Analysis
• Systems Analysis
• Technical Support
• Telecommunications Systems
• Travel Booking
• Video Editing
• Website Design
• Word Processing

Soft Skills for a Resume

• Accountability
• Active Listening
• Adaptability
• Brainstorming
• Business Etiquette
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Conflict Resolution
• Contextualizing
• Critical Thinking
• Decision Making
• Emotional Intelligence
• Flexibility
• Goal-Setting
• Handling Pressure
• Influencing
• Insightfulness
• Interpreting
• Negotiation
• Open-Mindedness
• Organization
• Prioritization
• Problem Solving
• Relationship Building
• Reliability
• Resource Management
• Responsibility
• Self-Confidence
• Strategical Thinking
• Strong Work Ethic
• Time Management

What If I Don’t Have the Required Skill?

Whether you need to possess a specific skill depends on the job and the skill in question. Usually, here’s where you have to be honest with yourself. If the skills required are part of the core competencies of doing the job, you may want to reconsider your application.

For example, if a golf course posts a job posting for a golf pro, you probably shouldn’t apply if you’ve never swung a golf club.

However, you will come across situations where what you bring to the table is close. In this case, moving forward might be okay.

You need to be able to demonstrate, using examples from your past, that you are capable of doing the required skill, even if you haven’t specially done it. So, go over your work history with a fine-tooth comb and try to come up with a few examples of you doing something in the right ballpark.

They are going to ask about it in your interview, so don’t think you can just wing it, and everything will be fine.

Also, many job descriptions have “nice-to-have” skills on the list. If you happen to possess them, great. But if not, don’t assume you shouldn’t apply if you have the must-have skills. In the end, those capabilities aren’t outright requirements, so don’t screen yourself out based on them.

How To List Skills on a Resume

There are a few different schools of thought when it comes to deciding where to put (or how to list) the skills on your resume.

According to our friends over at online resume-builder Zety.com , “…skills are so very, very important that they should show up all over your resume. Not just in the resume skills section.” In other words, it is imperative that there are elements of your skills throughout your resume, including your resume objective/summary and experience sections.

In addition, there isn’t one right answer for where to include your skill section because that depends on the industry, company, and position you’re trying to land. For example, for a job where technical competencies are of the utmost importance, it is often beneficial to list the skills closer to the top of the resume, right underneath the resume objective or resume summary statement.

However, if through your research you determine that the hiring manager will put more weight into your experience, you may want to lead with your experience. Then, put the skills section further down your resume.

At the end of the day, the selection of the skills themselves is the most important thing. After all, most hiring managers will easily find your skill section regardless of where it is on your resume.

What About Skills for My Job Application?

When you’re looking for skills to put on a job application, you do have to treat it a little differently than skills for a resume. Usually, you’re working with a finite amount of space on an application, not just in an overall sense but in each applicable section.

Since that’s the case, you need to lean heavily on the job description. Look for any capabilities that are listed as must-haves or that are repeated through the job ad. Then, make sure those skills are featured prominently in several areas, including in work history descriptions and skills areas.

If you have to answer essay questions, discuss those skills there, too, whenever possible. Use any other relevant capability as a supplement, treating it as supporting information instead of the primary point you’re sharing.

However, if an essay question asks about a skill that’s not in the job description, feel free to dig in a bit. It’s a capability that’s clearly on the hiring manager’s mind, so touch on it occasionally to show you shine in that area.

Putting It All Together

If you were wondering, “What are some good skills to put on a resume?” you should now have a solid answer. The most important thing to remember is to select skills that are relevant to the position you are interviewing for and, more important than that, skills that your company puts a tremendous amount of value in.

Once you get your skills straightened out, you should make sure that the rest of your resume is congruent with the skills you just selected, namely, that your experience shows that you both used those skills in a work environment and developed the skill with on-the-job tasks.

Co-founder and CTO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Jeff is a featured contributor delivering advice on job search, job interviews and career advancement, having published more than 50 pieces of unique content on the site , with his work being featured in top publications such as INC , ZDnet , MSN and more.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Jeff gillis.

Co-founder and CTO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Jeff is a featured contributor delivering advice on job search, job interviews and career advancement, having published more than 50 pieces of unique content on the site , with his work being featured in top publications such as INC , ZDnet , MSN and more. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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The language of the job hunt: resumes and job applications

Sep 07, 2022 - updated Apr 24, 2023

So you’ve decided to apply for a new role—good for you! You spruce up your resume and get ready to send it off, only to learn you need to complete a job application too. Confusion sets in as you find yourself doubling your efforts, wondering why both are necessary. Well, as culture fit becomes more critical in the workplace and competition rises, many employers want to better understand applicants beyond their work life and hard skills. Larger companies may also be seeking ways to sort through high application volumes and simplify or automate processes . Enter: the job application.

But what exactly is the difference between a resume and a job application? Why would a company ask for one over the other–or even both–and how can you ensure you stand out? Let’s find out.

What is a job application?

A job application is a standard form with questions or fields deemed necessary by a company to review candidates. It will often request the same information from every potential hire, such as contact information, past work experience, education, and references . However, not every company will ask you to complete a job application; sometimes just a resume will suffice. So what are some reasons a company would require one?

Marianne Encina, a recruiter at Shopify and co-founder of 3Skills , a community that teaches job seekers how to communicate their value to employers and build careers they are proud of, says, “a company might use a job application to have one clear standard to assess all applicants. This can be beneficial when the goal is solely to compare experience, skills, and education.”

However, the standardization of job applications also brings about concerns regarding DEI initiatives . Encina notes, “[Job applications] can be problematic since applicants will all have different backgrounds that will fall outside this standard and might therefore be automatically and unfairly rejected.”

That said, if a company does ask you to submit a job application, it is essential that you complete it in full. In the United States, candidates are required to list all former employers as requested on a job application and to fill it in honestly—you don’t want to get caught lying should the employer run a background check .

What is a resume?

A resume is a document that outlines your accomplishments, skills, and background, typically as they relate to your career and education . Resumes can also include personal information, such as hobbies, interests, and volunteer time, providing a prospective employer with more information about who you are and how you spend your time outside office hours.

A resume is your opportunity to showcase and highlight your unique talents and personality . While there are certain things that will double up on your resume and job application—such as your duties and responsibilities with previous employers—there’s lots of room for creativity.

One tip Encina suggests is tailoring your resume to the company’s brand by using their colors and fonts or getting inspiration from their products. “If you are interviewing with Google’s Search Team, for example, you could have each role in your resume replicate Google search results,” says Encina.

But it’s not all about aesthetics. “Content will always be more important than any color or font. A tailored resume with metrics that address requirements and responsibilities for the role should be the standard; aesthetics are a bonus.” Encina says. So what’s the bottom line? Make your resume enticing . “Ultimately, the goal is to extend the amount of time the recruiter or hiring manager spends reviewing your resume.”

What should you do if a company asks for both?

If a company asks for both, how do you ensure you don’t waste your or the recruiter’s time? While it can be tempting to keep one standard resume handy for any job that piques your interest, especially when applying to several different roles, it’s good practice to tailor your resume for each opportunity .

If a company asks you to complete a job application and a resume, avoid repeating the same information. “You might consider using that extra space to speak about specific projects that are relevant to that role,” notes Encina.

Should you send a resume if the company only offers a job application?

According to Encina, the answer to this question is: it depends. “If you have a tailored resume ready to be submitted that would only make your application and your candidacy stronger, I would go ahead and submit that too,” she says.

“But really, the question here should be redirected to the company: is every step of your process intentional and candidate-centric? Are the instructions clear on what needs to be submitted? Are they deducting points for anyone who didn’t submit a resume and cover letter , although there were no instructions to do so? As a candidate, your goal is to reflect that you are the most employable out of the candidate pool . A company’s goal should be to provide a clear recruitment process and expectations.”

Key takeaways: what’s the difference between a resume and a job application?

A job application is a form created by a company with fields that a candidate must complete in full . These fields typically include contact information, past work experience, education, and references . The application is the same for every potential candidate, providing a standardized way for a company to assess applicants.

Ensure you complete all sections as required by the job application. You must fully disclose all past employers when requested via a job application . Some companies may even perform a background check to confirm.

A resume outlines your accomplishments, skills, and background. It’s also your opportunity to showcase your unique experience, creativity, and other relevant information that could make you a front-runner for a position.

Clearly read a company’s application instructions; if they are unclear, don’t hesitate to ask for more information.

When in doubt, go the extra mile and submit a resume in addition to a job application , even if it’s not specifically requested. Find the appropriate company contact so you know it gets into the right hands .

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How to Write a Beginner Resume Summary with No Experience [Examples]

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When you’re diving into the job market with limited experience, writing a strong resume is key to landing your dream job. A well-written resume starts with a resume summary —the elevator pitch that shows the reader your greatest accomplishments, skills, and passions. A beginner summary for your resume is the starting point to wow-ing the hiring team and proving you’re the best candidate for the job.

An entry-level or beginner resume isn’t about listing everything you’ve accomplished or can do. Instead, it’s a strategic dance of weaving together your enthusiasm, soft skills, and unique experience. Then, you connect it to the job description and what the hiring manager is looking for.

• What a resume summary is.
• The critical components of a resume summary.
• Step-by-step instructions on how to write an entry-level or beginner summary for resumes.
• Examples and templates of successful resume summaries.

Understanding the resume summary for beginners

Your resume summary is a snapshot of your professional life—only 3 to 5 sentences—curated with each job description in mind. Job seekers include their professional title, years of experience, skills , and measurable achievements to entice the recruiter to read the rest of the resume.

As you navigate the job search, you’ll see how your resume summary is one of the most valuable sections of your resume.

What is an entry-level resume summary?

When you’re an entry-level applicant, the snapshot summary likely isn’t full of accolades, impactful accomplishments, or advanced skills. Rather, an effective resume summary for a beginning job seeker highlights an eagerness to learn, adaptability, and growth potential.

For entry-level applicants, “It’s not just about bullet points and job titles; it’s about weaving together the threads of your journey, painting a picture of resilience, ambition, and growth,” says Harleny Vasquez , a visionary Career Coach and CEO of yourEVOLVEDmind. “It’s a chance to showcase not just what you’ve done, but who you are and where you’re headed. Each section is a story, each accomplishment a milestone on the path you’ve forged with passion and purpose.”

The purpose of an entry-level summary

A professional summary is the attention-grabbing highlight reel. A successful summary keeps the hiring team reading your resume to learn more about you. In a hot job market where standing out is critical, resume summaries can be a positive differentiator.

Resume summaries provide key context to your resume. It helps the hiring manager frame your candidacy in their mind—they learn why you’re applying, how your skill set translates to the job, and key accomplishments that show you off in the best light. Many other applicants are jumping from the resume headline into the work experience, losing out on the opportunity to capture the hiring team right away.

Want to see examples of resume summaries for any stage of your career? Read 86+ Resume Summary Examples to Inspire You

Resume summary vs. objective

Resume summary and resume objective are often used interchangeably, but the two are very different. They serve different purposes and are used to convey different types of information.

Resume objective

A resume objective states your career goals and the type of position you are seeking. It is forward-looking and focuses on what you want to achieve in your career.

Primarily, it includes your career aspirations and what you aim to contribute to the employer.

For example, a resume objective could say something like:

Seeking a position as a Marketing Coordinator to utilize my skills in digital marketing and content creation in a dynamic, growth-oriented company.

Recruiters and career coaches argue against the resume objective because it’s more focused on the applicant, rather than the company you’re applying to.

Kelli Hrivnak , Founder of the boutique recruitment firm, Knack Digital shares, “I never like to see a resume objective on a resume. An employer is seeking an employee who will solve their problem, as opposed to prioritizing the wants and needs of the applicant.”

Jazlyn Unbedacht , Resume Writer and LinkedIn Optimizer argues we should just get rid of resume objectives altogether. “I’m not sure why they ever were a thing to begin with. Harness expertise from other experiences in your life, like education, volunteer work, hobby pursuits, and more and use that to create a short summary of what you can bring to the table as an employee.”

Resume summary

A resume summary provides a brief overview of your professional background, highlighting your key achievements and skills. It is backward-looking, summarizing what you have already accomplished in your career.

The short paragraph includes your key qualifications, experience, and major achievements. A summary is designed to quickly give employers an idea of your expertise and the value you can bring to their organization.

Many entry-level applicants and those writing beginner summaries for their resumes tend to default to objectives. They worry they have nothing impressive to highlight in their summary.

But Kelli Hrivnak urges you to think outside the box. “For job seekers who don’t have relevant work experience, can you include other experience or skills acquired in your project work instead?”

For example, Kelli suggests writing something like:

Google-certified Marketing graduate with 4 months of experience as an Audience Development intern at a nationally recognized publication firm. Grew audience engagement on Facebook by 30% by developing social strategy and initiatives.

Key pieces of a beginner resume summary

Think of your resume summary like a formula. Just like a math equation has values that you need to solve the problem, your resume summary has critical components that make it impactful to the hiring team.

Follow the formula below to write a standout summary:

Versatile [Your Professional Title] with over [X Years] of experience in [Field/Role]. Skilled in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. Proven success in [Measurable Accomplishment 1] and [Measurable Accomplishment 2].

Tailor your resume summary

You can’t write your resume summary once and use it for every application. Your resume—including the summary—should be tailored to each job description.

To tailor your resume summary, you should read the job description closely and pick out keywords and skills to integrate into your resume. This process can take a few hours per job posting, but you can do it quickly with Jobscan’s resume optimization tools.

If you don’t have a resume and are starting from scratch, the Resume Builder tool can help you create a base resume, then you can move directly into Power Edit to tailor your resume to the job description.

Quantify your achievements

Numbers and percentages showing time or money saved, revenue generated, or team members managed can show the hiring team how you help an organization thrive, rather than telling them what you’ve done.

For example, you can write:

Boosted sales by 30% through innovative product displays and promotions, and successfully managed inventory turnover, reducing excess stock by 20%.

Use Power Words and Action Verbs

Boring word choices make it easy for the hiring team to gloss over your resume. Inspire emotion and paint a picture with the words you use. Ditch common resume words and use more powerful words instead.

Discover the best power words and action verbs to integrate into your resume: 500 Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume Today

Step-by-step guide to writing an entry-level resume summary

Even if you know the resume summary formula, how can you ensure you’re making a successful impact on the hiring team? There are a handful of steps you can follow to knock your resume summary out of the park every time.

Step 1: Do a self-assessment

Before you write your resume summary, you first have to have a firm understanding of your strengths, skill set, and achievements. Take time to think about a few dimensions of your professional journey.

Using education in your resume summary

Consider your degrees or certifications and any projects and coursework. If you’re short on hands-on experience, using experience from school or other learning can show off your experience and professional growth.

Draw on untraditional experience for your resume summary

When you’re writing a beginner summary for your resume, your experience is limited. But you can draw on volunteer work, part-time jobs, clubs, or even hobbies to link to skills the hiring manager is looking for.

Highlight your transferable skills in your summary

At the start of your career, highlight your transferable skills —or soft skills . These skills are interpersonal skills or behavioral traits you bring to every workplace. Unlike hard skills —job-specific technical skills—transferable skills are difficult to measure, but they’re still incredibly valuable at work.

Add metrics to your resume summary

Numbers and figures show concrete impact and quantify your contributions to an organization. You can use time-based metrics, efficiency metrics, growth comparisons, and more. If you’re a new grad or entering employment for the first time, draw on your other experiences of clubs, school, or volunteering to make an impact.

Increased readership by 15% during tenure as Editor-in-Chief of university magazine.

For more insights about adding metrics to your resume, read 67 Resume Accomplishments Examples to Show Your Value

Step 2: Conduct your research

To create an effectively optimized resume, you need to conduct research about the role, company, and industry.

• Dive deep into the job description : The job description always has insights into the responsibilities and qualities of the role. Often, there are details about the company’s values.
• Add the right keywords: By integrating keywords in your resume summary tailored to the company’s mission and values, you can make a powerful impression on the hiring team.
• Familiarize yourself with industry keywords, skills, and tools : Stay up to date on evolving trends and tools in your field to position yourself as the strongest candidate.

Power Edit features AI technology that not only scans your resume for keywords and skills, but provides ideas you can use to integrate them into your resume seamlessly.

Step 3: Draft your entry-level resume summary

Writing your beginner resume summary for an entry-level role can feel daunting, but you have more to offer an employer beyond traditional work experience. Think beyond your past roles and draw on other experiences to show off your value as a candidate.

Remember, you can use the following template to guide your writing:

Start with a strong introduction sentence

The first sentence needs to capture attention, so choose strong power verbs and open with the information you need the hiring manager to know.

Some examples of powerful resume summary openers include:

Recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from XYZ University, where I maintained a 3.8 GPA. Proven leadership skills as the President of the Business Club, organizing events attended by over 200 students. Passionate about project management, I completed a capstone project that improved campus event efficiency by 25%. Seeking an entry-level role in business operations.

Enthusiastic computer science graduate with hands-on experience in developing mobile apps as a hobby, resulting in over 10,000 downloads on the Google Play Store. Skilled in Java, Python, and Swift, with a keen interest in UI/UX design. Looking to leverage my self-taught programming skills and creativity in an entry-level software development position.

Dedicated environmental science graduate with a strong background in community service, having volunteered over 300 hours with the Green Earth Initiative. Led a tree-planting campaign that resulted in 1,000 new trees being planted in urban areas. Highly organized and committed to sustainability, seeking to start a career in environmental consulting.

Diligent Marketing graduate with over two years of part-time retail experience at ABC Store, where I consistently exceeded sales targets by 15%. Recognized for excellent customer service and awarded ‘Employee of the Month’ twice. Eager to apply my sales and marketing skills in an entry-level marketing role.

Versatile communications graduate with a strong foundation in public speaking and writing, honed through coursework and as a volunteer tutor at the local literacy center. Part-time experience as a social media coordinator, where I increased engagement by 40% across platforms. Adept at content creation and community engagement, seeking a role in public relations.

Recent graduate with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology, combining academic excellence with leadership as the captain of the university soccer team. Coordinated training schedules and team-building activities, leading to a 30% improvement in team performance. Passionate about health and fitness, aiming to start a career in sports management.

Ambitious psychology graduate with hands-on research experience, having assisted in a faculty-led study on cognitive behavior that was published in a peer-reviewed journal. Strong analytical and statistical skills, with proficiency in SPSS. Seeking an entry-level research assistant role to further develop my expertise in psychological research.

Integrate keywords from the job description

A keyword-rich resume summary boosts your chances of showing up in ATS search results. The ATS , or applicant tracking system, houses every submitted resume for a job listing. When the hiring team looks for candidates to interview, the ATS helps them rank applicants based on keywords and skills from the job description.

“A professional summary is an amazing resource to optimize your resume with keywords and catch an employer’s attention,” claims Professional Resume Writer, Jazlyn Unbedacht .

Jobscan’s Power Edit can find keywords in the job description and help you find places to naturally integrate keywords. Below you can find an example of a keyword-rich resume summary example for inspiration.

Creative marketing graduate with strong skills in social media management and content creation . Successfully managed a university campaign that boosted social media engagement by 30%. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and familiar with SEO strategies . Seeking an entry-level marketing position to leverage creativity and analytical skills to support brand growth.

Avoid keyword stuffing. Adding keywords for the sake of having them can have a negative impact. If your summary isn’t authentic or personal and feels forced, your summary can be difficult to read. Strike a balance by finding other resume sections to integrate keywords.

Highlight your strengths

Your resume summary is the ideal place to humbly brag about your accomplishments . Stay honest and avoid embellishing, but put your best foot forward to make it impossible for the hiring manager not to invite you for an interview.

For example, include projects, assignments, or internships to make your beginner resume summary shine.

Natural leader and recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Management, achieving a 3.8 GPA. Led a student project team to complete a market analysis that was presented to local businesses, resulting in increased partnerships. Proficient in project management and team coordination. Seeking an entry-level management position to apply leadership and strategic planning skills to contribute to organizational success.

Use a resume summary generator

Include a resume summary, even when you have writer’s block. The resume summary generator in premium Power Edit can write the perfect resume summary, using content from your resume and keywords from the job description.

Here’s how it works.

If you don’t have a resume summary, you can go into the Editor and click “Generate Summary.” Using AI, the tool will write a customized resume summary highlighting all your key skills and accomplishments for the job. The AI draws on your education, skills, work experience, and certifications to create a tailored resume summary in seconds.

You can use the generated summary, or rephrase the summary until you find the variation you like best.

By the end, you’ll have an optimized resume to impress the hiring team and boost your chances of getting an interview invite.

Generate your resume summary in seconds with Power Edit and create a perfectly tailored resume for each job application.

Beginner summary for resume: Examples

Resume summary based on education

Recent high school graduate with a 3.8 GPA and a passion for technology. Completed a capstone project in computer science, developing an app that improved classroom attendance tracking by 20%. Seeking to apply technical skills and problem-solving abilities in a software development role.

Resume summaries based on volunteering

Enthusiastic volunteer with over 150 hours dedicated to community service at local food banks and shelters. Organized weekly meal distributions, aiding over 500 families. Passionate about social work and eager to contribute to a supportive team environment.

Multilingual individual fluent in English, Spanish, and French, with experience volunteering as a translator at community events. Assisted over 100 individuals in accessing services. Seeking to leverage language skills in a customer service or administrative role.

Community-focused graduate with a 3.9 GPA and extensive volunteer experience at local non-profits. Organized community clean-up events, improving local park conditions by 15%. Eager to bring organizational and community engagement skills to a professional setting.

Resume summaries based on certifications

Certified in Basic First Aid and CPR, with hands-on experience from part-time babysitting jobs. Known for reliability and excellent communication with parents. Managed schedules and provided educational activities for children, seeking to bring caregiving skills to a full-time position.

Certified in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript through online courses. Developed a personal website showcasing photography projects, increasing online portfolio traffic by 40%. Seeking to apply web development skills in a tech-related role.

Resume summary focused on extracurricular activities

Team-oriented individual with leadership experience as captain of the high school soccer team. Led the team to two state championships and organized weekly training sessions. Seeking to leverage leadership and teamwork skills in a dynamic work environment.

Learn how to incorporate extracurricular activities into your resume and read: Top Extracurricular Activities to Add to Your Resume (Samples)

Resume summary based on a mix of experience

Motivated recent graduate with a 4.0 GPA and a strong foundation in customer service from part-time work at a retail store. Volunteered at local animal shelter, managing 2 adoption events per month, increasing adoption rate by 15%. Eager to apply multitasking abilities and customer service skills to a professional role.

Resume summaries based on creative projects

Creative content creator with experience in managing a personal blog, growing its readership to 1,000 monthly visitors. Developed strong writing and content creation skills. Seeking to bring creativity and attention to detail to a marketing or content creation role.

Artistic graduate with experience in graphic design, having completed online courses in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Designed promotional materials for school events, increasing attendance by 25%. Excited to bring artistic skills to a design or marketing team.

Resume summary based on sports activities

Dedicated and disciplined athlete with experience in competitive swimming. Managed rigorous training schedules while maintaining a 3.8 GPA. Developed time management and resilience, aiming to apply these skills in a professional setting.

Resume summaries based on academics

Recent graduate with honors in Mathematics, achieving top marks in advanced calculus and statistics courses. Participated in math competitions, placing in the top 10 regionally. Seeking to apply analytical and quantitative skills in a data analysis role.

STEM enthusiast with a strong academic background in physics and chemistry. Completed a science fair project on renewable energy, earning first place at the district level. Seeking to apply analytical and research skills in a scientific or engineering role.

Resume summary based on part-time work

Passionate about fitness and health, with part-time experience as a gym assistant. Assisted with client schedules and maintained equipment, enhancing customer satisfaction survey results to a 4.7 star average rating. Looking to bring organizational skills and passion for health to a fitness-related role.

Resume summary based on leadership in clubs

Active member of the debate club with strong public speaking and research skills. Led the team to win regional championships and mentored new members. Looking to utilize leadership and communication skills in a challenging work environment.

A summary statement for a resume is a brief introduction that highlights your key skills, experiences, and what you aim to achieve in your career. For a beginner, this statement should focus on your education, any relevant skills, internships, volunteer work, and a clear career goal. It provides a snapshot of who you are and what you bring to the table, making it easier for hiring managers to quickly see your potential. Example: “Recent Marketing graduate with a strong foundation in social media management, content creation, and data analysis. Proven ability to increase engagement and brand visibility through innovative strategies, increasing social media followers by 30% in six months. Seeking to leverage skills and knowledge to contribute to a dynamic marketing team.”

The beginning of your resume summary should immediately grab the reader’s attention. Start with a strong descriptor followed by your job title, relevant experience, or education. Mention a few key skills or achievements that align with the job you’re applying for. Example: “Highly motivated and results-oriented Computer Science graduate with hands-on experience in software development and database management. Skilled in Java, Python, and SQL, with a passion for developing efficient and scalable solutions. Developed a web application that improved process efficiency by 25%.”

A good resume profile summary is concise, focused, and tailored to the job description. It should clearly state your professional identity, highlight your key strengths and achievements, and convey your career aspirations. Use action words and quantify achievements whenever possible to make a stronger impact. Example: “Certified Project Manager with over 5 years of experience in leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget. Expert in Agile methodologies, risk management, and process optimization. Successfully managed a project portfolio worth $2 million, achieving a 95% on-time delivery rate.”

Introducing yourself in a resume summary involves providing a brief yet comprehensive overview of who you are professionally. Start with your current role or recent educational achievement, followed by your most relevant skills and a statement of your career goals. Example: “Enthusiastic and creative Graphic Designer with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and 2 years of experience in creating visually compelling digital and print media. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, with a keen eye for detail and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work. Designed marketing materials that boosted client sales by 15%. Looking to contribute my design expertise to a forward-thinking company.”

Kelsey is a Content Writer with a background in content creation, bouncing between industries to educate readers everywhere.

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Resume Writing Guide

A resume is typically an employer’s first introduction to you. First impressions are crucial to establish yourself as professional, capable, and motivated. A strong resume demonstrates your transferrable skills, communication abilities, and achievements. A consistent, detailed, and concise resume can help your resume get noticed by recruiters. By formatting your resume professionally, you increase your chances of earning the interview.

Resume Components

Contact information, phone number.

Use a phone number you can answer readily, such as your cell phone. If you have a voice mail set-up, make sure it sounds professional with your name and the best times to contact you.

Your e-mail address should be professional. While you are enrolled at UMass Amherst, your UMass e-mail will work well. After graduation, consider creating a new e-mail address that contains your name. 

Always include phone and email, but consider if listing your address is helpful or harmful. Employers may give preference to people who are closer geographically - if you are applying from far away, they may be unsure whether you are serious about moving.

Additionally, while your city and state are helpful to list, you do not necessarily need to include your street address. Employers will need it to hire you, but it is not required to provide during the job application process.

Objective/Summary

This section is most useful when you hand your paper resume out at a career or networking event - unless you have something specific to highlight, consider leaving it off your resume. A cover letter will do a better job conveying your why, as well as your key abilities. When you submit electronically, many Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) will often skip the summary section and look for those key words to be in the body of your document instead.

For currently enrolled students, you will list your current degree first, and then work backwards in reverse chronological order. During your first few years of college, consider including your high school until you run out of space.

In addition to your college education, you may also highlight   study abroad or domestic exchange programs . When discussing these programs, think about including the following experiences to highlight your transferable skills: 

Class projects

Volunteering/internships/research applicable to your field

Independent travel

Learning to work with a more diverse group of people than you had previously been exposed to

Resolving conflicts based on misunderstandings of cultural differences

Learn new activities, languages, hobbies, or skills

Education Section Example 

University of Massachusetts, Amherst (Fall 2024 - Present)

Bachelor of Arts, Major: English

GPA (if over 3.0 and you feel comfortable sharing)

Relevant Coursework: 3-5 courses max

Awards (when including awards, include the reason for receiving it. Example: "21st Century Leadership Award for high academic achievement in first year")

Senior Project: (optional)

Portfolio of work (optional)

There are many types of experiences: volunteer, paid, unpaid, work study. If the experience is relevant and taught you transferrable skills, find a way to include it.

• For each experience, include name of organization, your title or role, location, and dates
• Action verbs (samples below) to help you write accomplishment statements, which prove you have the skills you say by leaning into outcomes and successes
• Consider using multiple experience headings, such as: research experience, industry experience, or relevant experience. This can be a good way to move more relevant experiences up higher on your resume, even if they happened further in the past.
• Quantifying your work can demonstrate your aptitude. Answering questions such as "How many?",   "How much?", and "How often?" will help recruiters understand the extent of your skills.  
• Avoid “responsibilities included" and writing in a passive voice - using action verbs will make this easier.

Experience Example

Leverage, Incorporated: Boston, MA (September 2025 - Present)

Computer Science Intern

• Developed an algorithm that identified patterns in white collar crime in the financial industries across the United States. Implementation of this program reduced company losses by 17% compared to the previous quarter.
• Collaborated with supply chain division to design new packaging based on reduction of carbon footprint, leading to increased production distribution while reducing energy usage.
• Established a training program to help connect interns with mentors at the organization and was awarded the Innovative Intern of Quarter for these efforts

This section is typically for "hard" skills, which are skills that can easily be measured. Soft skills (such as interpersonal skills) are better described in bullet points of your experience section so they can have the context they require. For a skills section, depending on your targeted field, you may add computer, language, laboratory skills, or performances. For languages, put your level of fluency (e.g., proficient, advanced, fluent, native).

Skills Example

Computer: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), Adobe Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), Data Analysis (R-Studio, SPSS)

Resume Formatting and Layout

The average reading only spends 20 seconds reading a resume. Before that, an applicant tracking system may be utilized to select which resumes get reviewed by a human being.  Make sure your resume is easy to read and stands out. 

No single format works for everyone: the only rule is that you need to be honest, factual, and relevant

One page is ideal (especially for internships) and for students ages 18-25

Keep a longer master resume for future opportunities

List everything in reserve chronological order; start with your most recent experience work backwards

Use a legible sans serif  font size, keep it readable, 11 is a good place to start

1 column is better than 2; when you have two columns the reader may jump around and miss key information

No icons or images as they cannot be read by applicant tracking software

How Many Resume Versions Do I Need?

There is a big difference between customizing your resume for a specific position/industry versus creating different documents for each application.

• If you are applying to jobs in drastically different industries, you will want to customize resumes for each industry. For example, a psychology major applying to jobs in Human Services as well as Human Resources will want to highlight different experiences and skills for each, and potentially format their resumes different as a business setting holds different expectations for job criteria compared to a mental health setting.
• If you're pursuing a few different roles, but they're all related to one discipline or field, then you will not need multiple versions of your resume. However, you will still want to tweak each resume you send out based on the specific job description. 

Specialized Resumes/Sections

While resumes may follow the same general format, depending on your experience and industry, there may be other considerations to help your resume stand out.

Design Resumes

Design resumes can differ from traditional resumes in several tangible ways, reflecting the unique skills and creative nature of design professions.

Your document is an indication of your style aesthetic and may not need to conform to the same rules and standards as other professions.

Visual Layout

Design resumes often incorporate creative layouts that display the designer's skills in typography, layout, and visual communication.

• Infographics: Use of icons, graphs, and other visual elements can represent skills, experience, and achievements.
• Color and Typography: Thoughtful use of color and font choices creates an aesthetically pleasing document that aligns with your personal brand.

Content Presentation and Customization

Direct links to online portfolios or examples of work, are often included as part of the resume. Incorporation of personal logos, custom icons, and other branding elements that reflect a designer's style may be added here.

File Format and Compatibility

Designers create their resumes in online spaces varying from Latec to Adobe to Canva. While many resumes are shared as PDFs, design resumes especially should be shared in this format to preserve visual integrity across different devices.

Unique Layouts

Non-traditional formats such as infographics, timelines, or modular layouts may be acceptable.

Interactivity

For digital resumes, elements of interactivity can be incorporated, such as clickable links, hover effects, and embedded multimedia.

The most important rules still apply to ALL resumes; clean neat formatting, with consistency in where the reader will access key information continues to be your driving force.

Designers should contact their career centers to discuss what resume style might best suit their professional goals.

Digital Resumes

A digital resume is an electronic version of a traditional resume that highlights an individual's professional experience, skills, and achievements using digital formats.

Either shared as a PDF or hosted on a personal website, this format allows for enhanced interactivity and multimedia integration. Digital resumes often feature creative layouts, embedded links to portfolios, and interactive elements such as hover effects or animations.

They enable candidates to visually demonstrate their technical and design skills, making them particularly popular in creative and tech industries. The goal of a digital resume is to highlight qualifications, but also provide a dynamic and engaging avenue for potential employers to assess a candidate’s capabilities.

Student Athletes

As a UMass athlete, you learn incredible transferable skills in areas such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. You also spend more time at your activity than most, so make sure they see all your greatness in action.

“Effectively managed communications between 24 team members, served as liaison connecting team and coaching staff, and effectively resolved intra-group conflicts.”

“Excellent time management skills. Balanced a 30+ hour practice, training, competition, and travel schedule while balancing full academic course load.

30+ Resume Objective Examples (Plus, Tips on How to Write Yours)

Resume objectives are a bit controversial. Some career experts see them as outdated, while others believe job seekers can still use them to their advantage. Although resume objective statements have slowly been replaced by resume summaries, they remain useful in certain situations—and that's why you should know how to write one, just in case.

For instance, if you're changing careers and your previous work experience doesn't quite match the new role you're after, an objective statement could help communicate your professional goals to the hiring manager. Likewise, if you're a recent graduate or looking to relocate, you could use this section of your resume to highlight these intentions.

We've gathered 32 resume objective examples—plus, some tips on how to craft one that grabs the hiring manager's attention.

What is a resume objective

A resume objective is a brief statement outlining your short-term career goals, usually one to two sentences long. It should be tailored to the specific job or industry you're pursuing and is placed at the top of your resume, just below the header.

What is a good objective for a resume, and when are they welcomed? That's what we'll show you in a moment.

When you should use a resume objective

Resume objectives aren't quite the norm these days, so they should be only used when you need to clarify why you're applying for that particular role or company. Here are three situations where using an objective statement is a good idea:

• If you're doing a career pivot: A resume objective can guide recruiters on your career goals and prevent you from being disqualified when transitioning to a new field.
• If you're changing locations: Applying for jobs outside your current state or city can leave recruiters uncertain about your location; a resume objective can clearly express your willingness to relocate.
• If you're a recent graduate: Since you likely have little to no work experience to show, a resume objective can give a glimpse into who you are and what you aim to achieve.
• If you've worked in a variety of roles: When your work history is all over the place, a resume objective statement can be a helpful tool to highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and what you're looking for in your next role .

Resume objective vs. resume summary

A resume objective outlines your career goals and what you aim to achieve in a position, while a resume summary focuses on skills, accomplishments, education, and relevant experiences for the role.

“Think of the resume objective as your career aspiration and the summary as your professional snapshot,” says Angela Tait, People Operations Specialist and Founder of Tait Consulting . “The objective sets your sights forward, while the summary looks at your past and present achievements.”

How to write a resume objective

If you decide to write a resume objective, it'll be the first thing recruiters see on your resume, right after your name and contact information. This means their first impression will be based on how well-written your objective statement is. Here are key tips to do it right:

1. Mention your area of expertise

“Start by mentioning your area of expertise and the role you are applying for,” Tait says. This way, you let the employer know right away about your background and what you want to achieve professionally.

2. Show how you can add value to the company

Your objective statement—and your whole resume, actually—should be tailored to each job opening. “Personalize your resume objective by stating how you can add value to the company you're applying to,” Tait says. “For instance, ‘ Seeking to leverage my expertise in digital marketing to drive brand growth and engagement at XYZ Corp.’”

3. Highlight skills relevant to the role

Once again, to write an effective resume objective, keep in mind the role you're going for. “Focus on how your skills and interests align with that specific job opportunity,” says Conor Hughes, certified in Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) and HR Consultant at SMB Guide .

For example, for a software developer, skills in programming with languages like Java, C++, and Python are pretty important. Meanwhile, a graphic designer should highlight technical skills in creating and editing visual projects using tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Figma.

4. Optimize your statement for ATS machines

These days, most resumes get scanned by an ATS robot before reaching human recruiters. So, it's crucial to optimize your objective statement for these ATS machines. How? “Use keywords from the job description to show you have the relevant abilities they're looking for,” Hughes says.

If a job posting specifies “experience in copywriting” and “SEO optimization” as requirements, you should incorporate these exact keywords in your objective statement—and wherever else they fit on your resume. Using just “SEO” or only “copywriting” might not be enough; precision is key.

Need some help? Here's how to read the job description the right way —so you can stop sending resumes into the void.

5. Make it as concise as possible

Recruiters go through resumes really fast—that's one of the reasons two-page resumes aren't usually recommended. When writing your resume objective, keep it concise. “To one or two sentences max,” Hughes says. Remember, the goal is to give enough information about why you're applying for that role, not to share your whole life history.

32 resume objective examples to guide you

Now that we've covered the basics, here are 32 good examples of objectives for resumes categorized by job title and different professional situations, like career pivoting and entry-level positions. Use these examples as a guide, and don't forget to inject your own personality and core information.

General resume objectives examples

1. career change.

Copywriter with five years of experience, now transitioning into the UX Writing field, looking to leverage my writing and content creation skills to create digital experiences that drive business growth. Strong background in content strategy and data-driven decision making.

Find UX writer jobs on The Muse »

2. Relocation

Experienced customer service representative relocating to New York in July, seeking employment with an established customer support agency. I bring my strong communication skills , conflict resolution and customer retention ability developed in seven years working in the industry.

Find customer service jobs on The Muse »

3. Entry-level

Creative marketing graduate seeking a social media assistant entry-level position at a fast-growing marketing agency. My goal is to apply my strong storytelling and creative writing skills to create impactful content for clients and foster professional development.

Find marketing jobs on The Muse »

Compassionate and enthusiastic elementary school teacher with four years of experience teaching young students. Seeking to leverage my creative ideas, multitasking and organizational skills to create a safe and stimulating environment where children can play and learn.

Find teacher jobs on The Muse »

Registered nurse with three years of experience in patient care , currently specializing in pediatric nursing. Seeking to join the Grey Hospital nursing team and bring my knowledge of patient care and my critical thinking skills to foster a safe and empathic environment for patients.

Find registered nurse jobs on The Muse »

6. Journalist

Seasoned journalist seeking a News Reporter position at the USPN channel. I bring my five years of experience working on live television, interviewing sources, gathering and reporting information in fast-paced environments.

Find journalist jobs on The Muse »

Seeking a litigation paralegal position at The Law Group. I bring my three years of experience in conducting legal research, processing legal documents, and witness preparation for deposition and trial.

Find lawyer jobs on The Muse »

8. Architect

Experienced architect relocating to Houston, Texas in August. In my 10 years of experience in the architecture industry I was able to work both in industrial and residential projects, holding high proficiency in AutoCAD and Photoshop.

Find architect jobs on The Muse »

9. Real estate specialist

Passionate and proactive real estate specialist with solid experience in lease negotiation and facility management. Looking for a similar role to manage a real estate portfolio, implementing strategies to improve profitability and cost effectiveness.

Find real estate jobs on The Muse »

10. Waiter/Waitress

Seeking a waitress position at a local, family-led restaurant where my two years of experience in customer service and hospitality industry would contribute to create an exceptional experience to customers, guests, and clients.

Find waiter/waitress jobs on The Muse »

Resume objective examples for tech professionals

11. software engineer.

Software engineer with 5 years of experience in the banking industry, pivoting to the customer service industry to foster professional growth. Deep knowledge of object oriented programming, experienced with Java, C++, C#, Ruby, Python, and relational database schema design.

Find software engineer jobs on The Muse »

12. Software developer

Computer science graduate seeking an entry-level position as software developer. I bring my experience with Git, Java, and Python, as well as strong documentation abilities and communication skills .

Find software developer jobs on The Muse »

13. Data scientist

Experienced data scientist, seeking a senior position in the e-commerce industry. My goal is to leverage my ability to write complex and efficient SQL queries to extract data and translate business needs into analytical frameworks.

Find data scientist jobs on The Muse »

14. SEO analyst

SEO analyst, passionate about SEO and digital audience growth. 7 years of experience with site migrations, SEO analytics tools (Google Search Console, Chartbeat, Google Analytics, and SEMRush), reporting and sharing data insights, and making data-driven decisions.

Find SEO analyst jobs on The Muse »

15. UI/UX Designer

Mid level UI/UX Designer, seeking employment in a fast-growing tech startup. Solid experience with user-centered design principles, knowledge of responsive design, strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Find UI/UX Designer jobs on The Muse »

Examples of resume objectives for creative jobs

16. content writer.

Results-driven content writer with two years of experience writing for blogs and websites. Skilled in SEO, creative copywriting, and storytelling, looking forward to applying my skills and creative ideas to help XYZ build an engaged audience.

Find content writer jobs on The Muse »

17. Graphic designer

Creative graphic designer seeking an entry level-position in the education industry. Proficient with InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Figma, and After Effects, quick learner with strong time management skills.

Find graphic designer jobs on The Muse »

18. Video editor

Outcome-oriented video editor, proficient with Final Cut, After Effects, Adobe Premiere, and Photoshop. Seeking employment in the entertainment industry where I intend to apply my extensive experience in storytelling and project management to create engaging stories.

Find video editor jobs on The Muse »

19. Social media manager

Experienced social media professional, seeking a manager position at a high-growth company. I bring my in-depth knowledge of social media strategy and five years of agency experience creating content that is engaging and exciting to the community.

Find social media manager jobs on The Muse »

Resume objective examples for administrative roles

20. front desk.

Highly energetic tourism and hospitality graduate, looking for a front desk clerk position. 1.5 years of experience in customer service. Strong time management and organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to learn quick and adapt in fast paced environments.

Find front desk jobs on The Muse »

21. Receptionist

Looking for a receptionist position in the real estate industry. Three years experience in customer-facing roles, communication and leadership skills, ability to work with tight deadlines focusing on all aspects of a task or project.

Find receptionist jobs on The Muse »

22. Administrative assistant

Seeking an administrative assistant role in the healthcare industry. I bring five years of experience in customer service, advanced Excel skills, and ability to multitask to perform my duties in a timely and efficient manner.

Find administrative assistant jobs on The Muse »

23. Human resources

Human resources graduate, looking for an entry level human resources generalist position with ABC company to apply my strong verbal and written communication skills , analytical abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft applications to provide hands-on assistance to the HR team.

Find human resources jobs on The Muse »

24. Logistics

Logistics supervisor seeking a manager position at AABB company. I bring my extensive experience in global logistics operations and project management to enhance supply chain and logistics efficiency and achieve cost-effectiveness.

Find logistics jobs on The Muse »

25. Executive assistant

Seeking an executive assistant role at XYZ company. I'm an experienced professional with strong interpersonal skills, ability to multitask, and attention to detail to provide timely and high quality administrative office support to senior level leaders.

Find executive assistant jobs on The Muse »

26. Office manager

Experienced administrative assistant seeking an office manager position in a fast-paced work environment to apply my written communication skills, time management, prioritization, and planning abilities and provide exceptional service and foster professional growth.

Find office manager jobs on The Muse »

Resume objective examples for sales jobs

27. sales assistant.

Problem solver and team player sales professional, seeking a sales assistant position in a challenging work environment. I bring my experience supporting high acquisition organizations, willingness to learn, and winning team spirit to support sales teams.

Find sales assistant jobs on The Muse »

28. Sales manager

Dynamic sales manager seeking employment in the pharmaceutical industry to develop strategic sales plans and achieve revenue and market share objectives. Two years of experience in pharmaceutical sales plus three years of experience in general sales, excellent communication and leadership skills.

Find sales manager jobs on The Muse »

29. Cashier

Recent high school graduate looking for a cashier position at a company with a culture of recognition and excellence. One year of experience in retail sales, strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills to represent the company in a professional manner.

Find cashier jobs on The Muse »

Examples of resume objectives for finance careers

30. banking.

Seasoned relationship banker looking to secure an investment banking analyst position at Bank of America. 15 years of experience in the banking industry, advanced knowledge of banking transactions, strong interpersonal skills, and ability to develop and expand relationships with stakeholders.

Find banking jobs on The Muse »

31. Accounting

B.S. graduate in accounting seeking an entry-level accounting associate position to use my growth mindset, desire to learn, and organizational skills to ensure financial goals are achieved and foster professional development.

Find accounting jobs on The Muse »

32. Financial analyst

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) looking to secure a senior position in a competitive and results-driven work environment. 10 years of experience in financial analysis in banking and technology industries, advanced Excel and SQL skills, and ability to articulate analysis outcomes and relevant insights.

Find financial analyst jobs on The Muse »

Key takeaways

Resume objectives aren't the favorite of most recruiters, but they still serve a purpose. If you're career pivoting, relocating, applying for your first job, or have a diverse professional background, an objective statement can help the hiring manager understand your career goals and how they align with the job opportunity.

However, in other circumstances, using a resume summary might be more appropriate. (Here are 20 resume summary examples to make writing your own easier .)

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