What Is a Cover Page?

A cover page, also often called a cover letter, is one of the first things a hiring manager reads when reviewing your application. To make a positive first impression, your cover page should be easy to read and include information about why an employer should hire you. Read this article to learn the basics of cover pages, what details and information should be included and how to format a cover page.

What is a cover page?

A cover page is a one-page letter you send to employers in addition to your resume and any other application materials they ask for. You can describe your skills, experience, education and achievements that make you a good fit for the role. Be sure to include the reason why you applied for the position. A cover page can serve as a way to explain your interest in the role since a resume has limited space. Consider submitting a personalized cover page with each application you send.

What to include in a cover page

Here are the main items you should include in a cover page: 

At the top of your cover page, add a formal business header.

Example of a business header:

  • Your name, address, phone number and email address
  • The recipient’s name, company and address

If you’re unsure of the name of the person you need to send your cover page to, you can use the company name instead.

After your header, add a salutation that addresses the recipient. A professional salutation will have the recipient’s title and last name. For example, ‘Dear Mr. Wise.’ Reread the job description to see if there’s a specific person you should address, or you can contact the company. Use ‘Dear Hiring Manager,’ or ‘Dear Hiring Committee’ if you don’t know who to address. 

Details about the job and company

In your first paragraph, explain what job you’re applying for and how you found it. Specify which website you found the job advertisement on so hiring managers know which recruitment efforts are working. 

If someone referred you, include their name so the hiring manager can contact that person for more details about you. Including a name can also get the employer’s attention, making it more likely that they’ll invite you in for an interview. 

Skills and experience

Use your second paragraph to describe why you’re the right person for the job. Go into detail about any certain skills you have that the employer may find useful. If possible, relate your skills to some in the job description. Your cover page is a good place to write about how you use your skills in the workplace, so give specific examples. 

If you have any experience that relates to the job, you can also write about that in the second paragraph. Try to incorporate how you used the skills you mentioned to excel in the role. 

Additional items

If education, certifications or licensure are important for the job, list them in the next paragraph. 

Examples of additional information you might want to include:

  • Degree title
  • Year awarded
  • Awarding body
  • License number
  • Expiration date

You can also add any achievements or accomplishments, such as winning an award. 

Interest in the role

In the next paragraph, tell the employer why you’re interested in the role. Look at the company’s website and the job description, then pick one or two things that make you excited about the job or business. This shows the employer that you did your research and truly want to work for the company. 

The final paragraph of your cover page should have a call to action for the hiring manager to follow up with you. State that you’re looking forward to learning about the next steps in the interview process, and that they can contact you if they have any questions about your resume and qualifications. You can also thank them for taking the time to read your cover page and resume. 

After that, include a professional closing, like ‘Sincerely,’ ‘Best’ or ‘Regards.’

Name and signature

Add a space after your closing to add your signature. If you’re sending your cover page by email, you can add an electronic signature or leave the space out. Below your signature, print your name. 

Cover page tips

Here are some tips to consider when writing your cover page:

  • Keep it short.  Cover pages should be less than a page long. This ensures the employer can read it all the way through instead of scanning it. 
  • Only include the necessary details. To keep the hiring manager’s interest, add details that are relevant to the role. Keep it focused so it’s easy to read in a short amount of time. 
  • Use keywords if possible.  Look at the job description for any keywords you might be able to add. Skills, responsibilities and qualifications are all good areas to check for words you can incorporate in your cover page. 

By following these tips, you can create a cover page that hiring managers read from beginning to end.

Cover page template

You can use this template to write your own cover page:

[Your name] [Your address] [Your phone number] [Your email]

[Recipient’s name] [Recipient’s company] [Recipient’s address]

Dear [Recipient’s name],

[In the first paragraph, describe the role and how you found it.]

[Use the second paragraph to describe your skills and experience.]

[The third paragraph should explain your interest in the job.]

[End your letter with a call to action.]

[Closing], [Signature] [Your name]

Cover page example

This is an example of a basic cover page:

Michael Chang 43 2nd Ave. Franklin, PA 555-555-5555 [email protected]

February 4, 2020

Leandra Hussein Pennsylvania Glass, Inc.  673 Jacobs Ln.  Franklin, PA

Dear Ms. Hussein,

Thank you for considering me for your open transportation coordinator position. Morgan Lee, an accounting clerk at your company, informed me of the role on Monday, and I was excited to apply. 

In my three years as a transportation coordinator, I have developed excellent communication, time-management and organization skills. At my current job as a transportation coordinator with Diaz and Associates, I created a new fleet schedule and matrix that increased the number of local deliveries by four per day. I was also awarded Employee of the Month in November 2019.

After researching your company, I believe I would be a perfect fit for the role. I value teamwork and working hard to help others in achieving a common goal.

I would enjoy the opportunity to speak with you more about the job and your company. I have attached my resume for you to review, and I would be happy to answer any questions you have about my qualifications. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Regards, 

Michael Chang

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What Is a Resume Cover Page?

Definition & Examples of a Resume Cover Page

how to write a cover page for a resume

How a Resume Cover Page Works

  • Resume Cover Page Requirements

Examples of a Resume Cover Page

A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. It provides additional information on your skills and qualifications to a prospective employer.

Here's why you need a cover page and how to write one.

A resume cover page provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for. Don't think of the letter as a summary of your resume. Well-written cover letters explain why you're interested in this specific position and organization and why you're the best candidate for the job.

  • Alternate names : Cover letter, covering letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to land an interview. Specificity is essential. If you write a generic letter and use it for every job application, it will show. It sends a signal that you're not that interested in the position and that you're not attentive to detail.

While it might sound overwhelming and time-consuming to personalize each cover page , the groundwork will be quite helpful if you do get an interview. Your research gives you a sense of the organization and how you can contribute it, and you can use that information to inform your interview.

Your cover page is your first impression with a hiring manager. In addition to making a case for your candidacy, take the time to proofread the letter and/or ask a friend or trusted mentor to review it and provide feedback.

The only time you shouldn't send a cover page is if the job posting specifically says not to.

Requirements for a Resume Cover Page

Before you start writing, spend some time  reviewing the job advertisement . A close examination of the ad will reveal what's important to hiring managers. For instance, if the posting mentions the need for organization and time management skills, mention in your cover letter that you're deadline-driven. If the position calls for leadership competencies, mention teams or projects that you've overseen. 

The format of a resume cover page varies slightly depending on whether you're emailing your resume as an attachment or sending it in the body of an email. Here's the standard format for an attachment. 

Standard Cover Letter Format

Your Contact Information

Name Address City, State, ZIP Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer Contact Information  (if you have it) Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation : Dear Mr./Ms. Name: ( begin here if you are sending the cover page in the body of an email)

First Paragraph Provide information on how you found out about the job and why you're applying. Mention the precise job title. 

Middle Paragraphs This section of the cover letter can be one paragraph or several. Use this space to describe your experience, focusing on how it shows that you're a good match for the position and have the necessary qualifications.

Final Paragraph Wrap up your cover page letter here by thanking readers for their consideration, and providing information on how you will follow up. 

Complimentary Close

Respectfully yours,

Typed Signature

Below is a sample resume cover page to help you craft your own.

Sheila Johnson 1234 Dogwood Avenue Knoxville, TN 37914 (123) 456-7890 sheila_johnson@email.com

July 2, 2020

Ms. Alexandra Eliot Hiring Manager ABC Company 3457 Neyland Street Knoxville, TN 37913

Dear Ms. Eliot:

I was very interested to learn that ABC Company is searching for a new Administrative Assistant through your recent posting on Indeed.com. Please accept the attached resume as a sign of my deep interest in this position.

As a recent graduate from Pellissippi State Community College’s Administrative Professional Technology Program, I can offer you advanced Microsoft Office 365 and QuickBooks accounting software skills. I am well-versed in traditional administrative tasks such as database management, data entry (typing 83 WPM), filing, and appointment scheduling.

You specify in your job posting that you're looking for someone with strong web design and social media management experience. Concurrent with my education at Pellissippi State, I also worked part-time as a Social Media Assistant for the Riverside Creative Agency. In that capacity, I helped create and manage new social media accounts on Facebook and LinkedIn for many local businesses. I’m sure that the skills I gained in social media design, SEO, and AdWords will allow me to contribute substantially to the in-house management of your website and social media presence.

My training, practical experience, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence will ensure that I hit the ground running as your next Administrative Assistant. ABC Company is widely respected as one of Knoxville’s best workplaces, and I would love to launch my career with your organization.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.

Sheila Johnson

Type your name at the close of the email followed by your contact information (email and telephone number). Your email  subject line  should include your name and the role you are seeking.

Key Takeaways

  • A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. 
  • It provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for.
  • Tailor each cover page to the position. Don't just summarize your resume; provide context and make a case for your candidacy. 
  • Use an example to help you craft your own cover page. 

Examples

Resume Cover Page

Ai generator.

how to write a cover page for a resume

In the competitive job market, a well-crafted resume cover page can make all the difference. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s your chance to showcase your skills, highlight your career goals, and captivate potential employers from the get-go. But what exactly is a resume cover page, and how can you create one that stands out? In this article, we will delve into the world of resume cover pages, providing you with inspiring examples, expert tips, and a step-by-step guide to help you craft a winning document. So, let’s embark on this journey to elevate your professional profile to new heights!

One Page Resume Cover Letter

One Page Resume Cover Letter

  • Google Docs

Size: 24 KB

Electrician Resume Cover Letter

Electrician Resume Cover Letter

  • Apple Pages

Size: 16 KB

Driver Resume Cover Letter

Driver Resume Cover Letter

Size: 20 KB

Draftsman Resume Cover Letter

Draftsman Resume Cover Letter

Size: 19 KB

Dietitian Resume Cover Letter

Dietitian Resume Cover Letter

Size: 18 KB

Internship Resume Cover Letter Example

Internship Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 151 KB

Math Teacher Resume Cover Letter Example

Math Teacher Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 72 KB

Project Manager Resume Cover Letter Example

Project Manager Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 30 KB

Loan Associate  Resume Cover Letter Example

Loan Associate Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 110 KB

Resume Cover Letter Example

Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 138 KB

Sports Resume Cover Letter Example

Sports Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 83 KB

Account Executive Resume Cover Letter Example

Account Executive Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 104 KB

Airline Resume Cover Letter Example

Airline Resume Cover Letter Example 1

Size: 57 KB

Airline Resume Cover Letter Example 2

Airline Resume Cover Letter Example 2

Size: 226 KB

Financial Analyst Resume Cover Letter Example

Financial Analyst Resume Cover Letter Example

Size: 126 KB

Admin Assistant Cover Letter Example

Admin Assistant Cover Letter Example

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Resume Cover Letter Guide

Resume Cover Letter Guide

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Sample Cover Letters and Resumes

Sample Cover Letters and Resumes

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Basic Resumes Cover Letters

Basic Resumes Cover Letters

Size: 695 KB

Creative Resume Cover Letter Guide

Creative Resume Cover Letter Guide

Size: 530 KB

Modern Resume Cover Page

Modern Resume Cover Page

Size: 639 KB

Standard Resume and Cover Letter Guide

Standard Resume and Cover Letter Guide

Printable Resume and Cover Letters

Printable Resume and Cover Letters

Size: 634 KB

What is a Resume Cover Page

A resume cover page, also known as a cover letter, is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It serves as an introduction to your qualifications, skills, and experiences, allowing you to showcase your unique value proposition to potential employers. Unlike the resume, which provides a concise summary of your work history, a cover page gives you the opportunity to highlight specific achievements, express your enthusiasm for the position, and demonstrate your compatibility with the company’s values and culture. Think of it as your personal marketing tool, designed to make a memorable first impression and entice employers to delve deeper into your application.

How to Create a Resume Cover Page

Before diving into the creation process, it’s essential to understand the purpose and significance of a well-crafted resume cover page. This introductory paragraph will guide you through the key elements and considerations involved in creating an impactful cover page.

Step 1: Understand the Job Requirements

Begin by thoroughly analyzing the job description and understanding the key skills, qualifications, and qualities the employer is seeking. This will help you tailor your cover page to align with their expectations.

Step 2: Research the Company

Conduct research on the company’s values, culture, and mission. This knowledge will allow you to showcase your compatibility and enthusiasm for their organization in your cover page.

Step 3: Personalize Your Introduction

Start your cover page with a strong and engaging introduction. Address the hiring manager by name, if possible, and express your interest in the specific position. Grab their attention and make them eager to read further.

Step 4: Highlight Your Skills

In the body paragraphs, focus on showcasing your skills, both hard and soft, that are relevant to the job. Provide specific examples and quantify your achievements when possible. This will demonstrate your capabilities and differentiate you from other candidates.

Step 5: Connect with Your Career Goals

Clearly state your career goals and explain how the position aligns with your aspirations. Showcase your enthusiasm for the industry and your motivation to contribute to the company’s success.

Step 6: Showcase Your Work Experience

Highlight your relevant work experience and accomplishments. Emphasize how your previous roles have prepared you for the position you are applying for and how your contributions have made a positive impact.

Step 7: Maintain a Professional Tone

Throughout your cover page, maintain a professional and confident tone. Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on providing specific, compelling evidence of your qualifications and abilities.

Step 8: Proofread and Edit

Before submitting your cover page, carefully proofread it for any grammatical or spelling errors. Ensure that the formatting is consistent and the content is concise and easy to read.

Step 9: Tailor for Each Application

Customize your cover page for each job application. Highlight the most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that directly relate to the specific position you’re applying for. This shows the employer that you’ve taken the time to understand their requirements and are genuinely interested in the role.

Step 10: Use an Effective Closing

End your cover page with a strong closing paragraph. Reiterate your interest in the position and express your eagerness for the opportunity to discuss how your qualifications align with the company’s needs in an interview. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

What are hard skills and soft skills, and why are they important on a resume cover page?

Hard skills refer to specific technical or job-related abilities, such as coding, project management, or language proficiency. Soft skills , on the other hand, encompass interpersonal qualities like communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Both types of skills are crucial to showcase on a cover page as they demonstrate your competence and potential to excel in a given role.

How should I format the paragraphs on my resume cover page?

When it comes to paragraph format on a cover page, it’s essential to maintain a clean and organized appearance. Start with an engaging introduction paragraph , followed by two to three body paragraphs highlighting your skills and experiences. Use bullet points, subheadings, or bold text to enhance readability and make important details stand out.

What is the optimal text structure for a resume cover page?

A well-structured cover page typically consists of an introduction that grabs attention, body paragraphs that provide evidence of your qualifications, and a strong conclusion that reiterates your interest in the position and invites further action. Consider using a logical flow that guides the reader’s attention and maintains coherence throughout your cover page.

Crafting an impressive resume cover page is an art that requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By showcasing your skills, aligning your career goals , and highlighting your work experience , you can create a powerful document that sets you apart from the competition. Remember, whether you’re creating an internship resume or a manager resume , the principles remain the same – make it engaging, concise, and tailored to the specific role you’re applying for.

Now armed with examples and a step-by-step guide, go ahead and create your own outstanding resume cover page. This invaluable tool will help you open doors to new opportunities and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Good luck on your journey to professional success!

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Tailor Your Resume And Optimize For Applicant Tracking Systems

Its very easy these days to fire off your resume to dozens of jobs, but if youve tried this method, you may have been disappointed by your success rate. Thats because you didnt take the time to customize your resume for each individual roleand recruiters can tell.

The most impactful thing you can do to improve your chances of getting interviews is tailor your resume to each and every job. Customized resumes that align with job requirements and include keywords from the job description will stand out to recruiters who often receive hundreds of resumes for each role.

When you tailor your resume to the job, youre also optimizing for applicant tracking systems., because many ATS allow recruiters to filter and search by keyword. Want to see if your resume is well-tailored? Use Jobscan to see your match score and discover missing keywords.

Can A Resume Be 2 Pages

A two page resume is OK if you can’t cut it shorter without hurting the message. Professionals with lots of experience in technical professions often need a two page resume.;

Write a 2-page resume if:

  • Youve had the same job title for 7+ years or
  • Youve got so many blistering achievements they wont fit one page and
  • All your great achievements match the job you want.
  • You are going to use it to apply for; grad school , scholarships , or positions in acadamia .

Expert Hint: Can you guarantee that anywhere they look, youll blow their minds? Then write a two-page resume.

Heres how to write a 2-page resume that works:

Craft A Killer Opening Line

No need to lead with your namethe hiring manager can see it already on your resume. Its good to mention the job youre applying for , and yes, you could go with something simple like, I am excited to apply for with . But consider introducing yourself with a snappy first sentence that highlights your excitement about the company youre applying to, your passion for the work you do, or your past accomplishments.

Need inspiration? Check out these examples of how to start your cover letter in an engaging, attention-grabbing way, or these eight examples of awesome cover letters that actually worked.

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How To Write A Cover Letter

Perhaps the most challenging part of the job application process is writing an effective cover letter. And yes, you should send one. Even if only one in two cover letters gets read, thats still a 50% chance that including one could help you. Before you start writing, find out more about the company and the specific job you want. Next, catch the attention of the hiring manager or recruiter with a strong opening line. If you have a personal connection with the company or someone who works there, mention it in the first sentence or two, and try to address your letter to someone directly. Hiring managers are looking for people who can help them solve problems, so show that you know what the company does and some of the challenges it faces. Then explain how your experience has equipped you to meet those needs. If the online application doesnt allow you to submit a cover letter, use the format youre given to demonstrate your ability to do the job and your enthusiasm for the role.

No one likes job hunting. Scouring through online job listings, spiffing up your résumé , prepping for grueling interviews ;;none of it is fun. For many, the most challenging part of the process is writing an effective cover letter. Theres so much conflicting advice out there, its hard to know where to start. Do you even need one, especially if youre applying through an online system?

Writing A Cover Letter

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2021 (12+ Examples)

Many hiring managers view cover letters as the key to gauging an applicant’s potential. Writing an effective cover letter can convey your attributes in an attractive way. In this article, we will discuss how to create a cover letter and provide you with tips and samples that you can use when writing your own.

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How To Create A Cover Letter

Here are the steps you can follow to write your cover letter:

  • Note the date
  • Include your name and address
  • Include the recipient’s name and address
  • Introduce yourself
  • Make your opening paragraph about your interest in the position
  • Include your background
  • End with the things you believe distinguish you from other candidates
  • Sign with an appropriate salutation including your signature

Requirements For A Resume Cover Page

Before you start writing, spend some time;. A close examination of the ad will reveal what’s important to hiring managers. For instance, if the posting mentions the need for organization and time management skills, mention in your cover letter that you’re deadline-driven. If the position calls for leadership competencies, mention teams or projects that you’ve overseen.;

The format of a resume cover page varies slightly depending on whether you’re emailing your resume as an attachment or sending it in the body of an email. Here’s the standard format for an attachment.;

Read Also: What Is Difference Between Resume Cv And Biodata

Top 5 Good Cover Letter Templates

  • Tokyo: With its bold, energetic heading, this template makes for one cool cover letter. Choose this design if youre sure the prospective employer will appreciate your stylish approach and flair for creativity. If you need to make a statement, go for Tokyo.
  • Dublin : If youre looking for a balance of spark and professionalism, check out Dublin. The sleek sidebar can be adjusted to any color youd like depending on the formality of the position. With its classy, minimalist heading, Dublin gets attention without having to ask for it.
  • Milan : This template is guaranteed to keep your cover letter as fashionable as the city its named after. The simple heading makes sure your name stands apart, while the sidebar offers plenty of space for your contact information and social media accounts. You can even add a touch of color to the font bellissimo!
  • Santiago : If its time to get down to business, look no further than Santiago. This template is no fuss and all action with plenty of room for your personal information and expert writing. This template keeps things simple so the focus stays on you.
  • Amsterdam : If trendy is what your after, this template has got it all. The stylish square heading manages to make a statement without distracting from the text. And just like the canals in its namesake city, this templates clean lines break the page into tidy sections.

Focus It On The Future

While your;résumé is meant to be a lookback at your experience and where youve been, the cover letter should focus on the future and what you want to do, says Glickman. It can be helpful to think of it as the bridge between the past and the future that explains what you hope to do next and why. Because of the pandemic there is less of an expectation that youll be applying for a job that youve done before. There are millions of people who are making career changes voluntarily or involuntarily and need to pivot and rethink how their skillset relates to a different role or industry, says Glickman. You can use your cover letter to explain the shift youre making, perhaps from hospitality to marketing, for example. Think of it as an opportunity to sell your transferrable skills .

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Throw In A Few Numbers

Hiring managers love to see statsthey show youve had a measurable impact on an organization or company youve worked for. That doesnt mean you have to have doubled revenue at your last job. Did you bring in more clients than any of your peers? Put together an impressive number of events? Made a process at work 30% more efficient? Those numbers speak volumes about what you could bring to your next position, and make your cover letter stand out .

You dont even have to have worked with numbers at all! Check out a few more tips for adding stats to those resume bullets , even if your previous jobs involved dealing with people, not figures.

How To Write A Cover Letter In 2021

After weeks of heavy job search, youre almost there!

Youve perfected your resume.;

Youve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

Youve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.

Now youre stuck wondering how to write a cover letter …

Dont panic! Weve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think.;

In this guide, were going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We’ll cover:

  • Whats a cover letter & why its important for your job search
  • How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job
  • How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
  • What excellent cover letter examples look like

So, lets get started with the basics!

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Highlight Library Page Skills

Because your main tasks as a library page revolve around performing administrative tasks and collaborating with library staff and patrons, several hard and soft skills are essential to this entry-level role.

Here are some soft skills you should include on your cover letter:

Additionally, heres a list of hard skills and related software for a library page:

  • Administrative assistant skills : Managing files and records and handling clerical procedures, transcription, and terminology
  • and Microsoft Office
  • Data entry: categorizing, verifying, and transcribing written and electronic information
  • Knowledge of library software: cataloging software, ResourceMate Plus , Online Computer Library Center , and automated circulation systems
  • Information retrieval process, query software, and database user interfaces

Link your skills to your past achievements; to give employers a better sense of what you can contribute to their facility. Adding numbers helps them understand how much you achieved.

For instance, you can talk about how you organized 12 information sessions on research methods each year for incoming students.

List Relevant Skills And Keywords

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2021 (12+ Examples)

Resume keywords are important terms of interest that recruiters look for whether skimming a resume or searching within an applicant tracking system . The more role-specific keywordsoften hard skillsyour resume contains, the better optimized your resume is.

99 percent of Fortune 500 companies use applicant tracking systems to sort, filter, and search applicants. Some ATS, like Taleo , can automatically rank your resumes content against the job description, allowing recruiters to focus only on the best applicants. Recruiters often also search their applicant pool for important resume keywords, like customer service, accounts receivable, or Adobe Photoshop.

Where on your resume should you include important skills?

Its crucial to incorporate important skills throughout your entire resume, beginning with your headline which should, when possible, include the most relevant keyword: the job title. You can also list skills in a dedicated skills section of your resume if using the hybrid resume format.

How do you find keywords to include in your resume?

Also Check: What To Include In A Job Resume

Have Someone Gut Check It

Have a friend take a look at your cover letter, and ask him or her two questions: Does this sell me as the best person for the job? and Does it get you excited? If the answer to either is no, or even slight hesitation, go back for another pass.

Finally, read this if youre looking to write a letter of intent instead of a cover letteryes, theres a difference.

What Is A Cover Letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application .;

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background.;On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can spark the HR managers interest and get them to read your resume.;

A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesnt happen, its essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, heres an example:

Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you dont just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.

If youre writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, youre probably not a professional writer.

The thing is, though, you dont need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:

  • Header – Input contact information
  • Opening paragraph – Grab the readers attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
  • Second paragraph – Explain why youre the perfect candidate for the job
  • Third paragraph – Explain why youre a good match for the company
  • Formal closing

Or, heres what this looks like in practice:

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Creative Cover Letter Templates

There are certain positions in which creativity is not just recommended, its expected. For those situations, we’ve developed a line of creative cover letter templates perfect for expressing your passion and eye for good design. These templates offer just the right balance of text and visual elements to make your cover letter stand out from the crowd.

Ideal for applicants in fields like fashion, media, photography, film, art and design, these templates are for those unafraid of bold colors and page elements that make a statement. With our free creative cover letter templates, you can rest assured that your cover letter is just as unique as you are.

Create A Cv And Cover Letter From Our Templates And Save Them

Use our templates to create your CV and cover letter. You’ll need to save them to your computer.

  • Save your CV as both a Word document and a PDF. An employer may need either one of these file formats.
  • Label your CV files with your name, the application date, and the job you’re applying for.
  • If you update your Word document, remember to also create a new PDF.

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Simple Cover Letter Templates

Sometimes, less is more. Our collection of straightforward designs are not only easy-to-use, their sleek and basic appeal can be a real advantage in fields where hard skills are most important. Combine your simple job application letter with our simple cover letter examples, and youve got a job-winning combination.

Include An Education Section

An education section will be especially valuable if you have limited work experience or if you are transferring to a new industry. You can include information such as:

  • Relevant coursework
  • Grade point average
  • Participation in clubs or organizations
  • Leadership positions held
  • Awards, achievements or certifications

When writing your education section, you should include the name of the institution, dates of attendance and your degree or area of study. If you are applying to mid or higher-level positions, you might remove all but the name of your school and dates of attendance to make room for more relevant professional experience on your resume.

If you have certifications or licenses that are relevant to the job description, you can include them in this section as well. To save space, you can leave off any credentials that are not directly related to the requirements of this job.

Related: How to Include Relevant Coursework on a Student Resume

You May Like: What Is A Functional Resume Sample

Be Open To Other Formats

If youre applying to a more traditional company, then the tried-and-true three-to-five-paragraph format probably makes sense. However, if youre gunning for a more creative or startup jobor need to explain to the hiring manager, say, how your career has taken you from teaching to business developmenta different approach could be appropriate.

Here at The Muse, weve seen cover letters use bullet points, tell stories, or showcase videos to get their point across. One woman wrote a cover letter from her dogs perspective . This professional even turned hers into a BuzzFeed-style list !

List Your Professional History With Keywords

How to Write a Cover Letter: 10+ Examples, Tips ...

Write your professional history section in reverse-chronological order. Start with your most recent job and provide a short description including the company name, time period in which you were employed, your job title and a few key achievements during your time at the company. You might also include relevant learnings or growth opportunities you experienced while employed there.

When listing your professional history, you should keep a few best practices in mind:

  • Use numbers to measure your impact, when possible. Including specific numerical achievements can help employers understand your direct potential value to their company.

Example: Developed new process for requesting supplies, reducing fulfillment time by 10%.

  • Use keywords from the job description. Similar to your skills section, you should also include information from the job description in your job history bullets. For example, if the job description mentions the importance of meeting sales quotas, you could include information about how youve met or exceeded quotas in past roles.

Example: Achieved goal of reaching 250% annual sales quota, winning sales MVP two quarters in a row.

Follow the same process for other work experiences. If you do not have extensive professional history, you should also include internships and volunteer opportunities following the same format.

Also Check: How To Review A Resume

When Sending A Resume By Email What Do You Write

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How to Make a Cover Page

Last Updated: January 12, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Amber Rosenberg, PCC . Amber Rosenberg is a Professional Life Coach, Career Coach, and Executive Coach based in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the owner of Pacific Life Coach, she has 20+ years of coaching experience and a background in corporations, tech companies, and nonprofits. Amber trained with the Coaches Training Institute and is a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 146,542 times.

Many professional and academic documents will require a cover page, but the information required for a cover page varies depending on the nature of the document. Some cover pages, like those you would send with a resume, are actually letters. Others, like those used for academic essays, are actually title pages. For all cover letters, using a standard font such as Times New Roman, in at least a 12-point size, is recommended.

Formatting a Cover Page For Your Resume

Step 1 Keep the letter to one page.

  • You should usually use standard 1-inch (2.5-cm) margins, but you can use margins as small as 0.7 inch (1.8 cm) as long as they are the same on all sides.

Step 2 Include your contact information in the upper left corner.

  • If you have a fax number, you should include it below your phone number and above your e-mail address.

Step 3 Write the full date below your contact information.

  • Write out the full name of the month, rather than abbreviating by using a number. For example, rather than write 1/1/2001, you should write January 1, 2001.
  • Leave a blank line above and below the date.

Step 4 State the name and address of the receiver.

  • Note that you do not need to include an e-mail address, phone number, or fax number for the company.
  • If you do not know the name of a specific contact at the company, skip over that information.

Step 5 Address the receiver by name.

  • When you can determine the gender of the receiver, leave out his or her first name and address the receiver as "Mr." or "Ms." For example, "Dear Ms. Smith" or "Dear Mr. Johnson."
  • If you do not know the gender of the receiver, skip the title and use his or her full name. For example, "Dear Pat Roberts."
  • Leave a blank line before and after you address the receiver.

Step 6 Write an introduction.

  • If you are a student, state the university you attend and your major.
  • Indicate what position you are applying for as well as how or where you heard about the position.
  • You can also mention the name of a professional or academic contact you know who has a positive connection to the reader or company.

Step 7 Highlight your skills in one to three body paragraphs.

  • List any special projects, awards, or accomplishments that have a clear connection to the skill set requested by the employer.

Step 8 Briefly conclude your letter.

  • You can include your phone number and e-mail address, as well, but it is not entirely necessary since this information is included in your header.

Step 9 Close the letter formally.

  • Always use black ink to sign formal documents.

Making a Cover Page For a Fax

Step 1 Provide your name and address in the header.

  • Include your phone number and your fax number beneath your name and address.
  • Leave at least two blank lines below this header and the rest of the document.

Step 2 Format the cover sheet in two columns.

  • It's a good idea to save your document as a template for future fax use, since the general format will remain the same.
  • The most important quality to your fax cover sheet is that it be clear and easy to read.

Step 3 List the date, receiver's name, sender's name, and sender's phone number in the left column.

  • Label the date with "DATE," the receiver's name with "TO," your name with "FROM," and your phone number with "PHONE."
  • In the United States, the date will be written in "Month, Day, Year," while in most other countries, it will be written "Day, Month, Year."

Step 4 List the time, both fax numbers, and your e-mail address in the right column.

  • Label the time with "TIME," the receiver's fax number with "FAX," your fax number with "FAX," and your e-mail address with "EMAIL."
  • Note that the receiver's name and fax number should be placed on the same horizontal line. Likewise, your name and fax number should be placed on a shared horizontal line of their own.

Step 5 Indicate the number of pages.

  • Note that this line does not need to be in all capital letters.

Step 6 Include a brief message.

  • If you had previous contact with the receiver concerning this fax, state that information.
  • Introduce your message with the label "MESSAGE:"
  • Below your message, ask the receiver to verify the receipt of the document by calling the phone number provided or using the e-mail address provided.

Step 7 Write a disclaimer, if necessary.

  • Specific privacy guidelines for transmission of protected confidential information may vary. If you work for a health provider, you may need to follow additional guidelines to protect the privacy of your client.

Formatting a Cover Page For Your Manuscript

Step 1 Include your contact information.

  • Use your real name. If you are submitting the manuscript under a pen name, you can follow your real name with your pen name. Introduce a pen name with "A.K.A." or "(Pen name: John Doe)."
  • If you're submitting your work to a context that will be judged anonymously, you'll include your contact information on the cover page, while omitting your name and contact information from the title page.

Step 2 List the word count.

  • You do not need to use an exact word count. For instance, if your manuscript is 63,472 words, round it off to 63,000 or 63,500.
  • Introduce the word count with "Approximately ______ words."

Step 3 Include the title of your manuscript.

  • Typing the title in all capital letters is a fairly common practice, but it is not necessary.
  • It's not necessary to underline, italicize, or bold the title.

Step 4 Finish with the name of the author.

  • You don't have to include any indication of copyright protection, as your work is automatically protected.
  • Never bind or connect the pages of your manuscript in any way. Your cover letter, like the other pages of your manuscript, should be unbound and placed in an envelope or box.

Using APA Style For Your Cover Page

Step 1 Use a standard font and margin.

  • Introduce the running head with the words "Running head." Follow this label with a colon.
  • The running head itself should be in all capital letters.
  • The running head should be no longer than 50 characters, including spaces and punctuation.

Step 3 Include the page number in the upper right corner.

  • The page number and running head should be evenly aligned horizontally.

Step 4 Center the title.

  • Capitalize the first letter of all major words but not for minor words. For example: How to Make a Cover Page
  • Do not italicize, bold, or underline the title.

Step 5 Include your name below the title.

  • For example, if you are submitting the paper for a class taken at the University of North Carolina at Asheville, you should include this in the line beneath the author's name (i.e. your name, and the names of your co-authors.)
  • Check with your professor for any additional guidelines.

Using MLA Style For Your Cover Page

Step 1 Use a standard font and standard margins.

  • Be aware that cover pages are not standard in MLA format, but some professors do request them.

Step 2 Center the title.

  • Do not bold, italicize, or underline either the title or the subtitle.

Step 3 Write your full name.

  • Your name should be written using the same font and size as the other words on your title page.
  • Don't try to use a cute or clever font for any part of your cover page, as professors don't care for this.

Step 4 List the receiver of your paper.

  • Introduce your instructor as "Dr." when appropriate. If you cannot use this title to address your instructor, at least introduce him or her as "Professor." For example, "Dr. John Doe" or "Professor John Doe."
  • Include both the course name and number.

Using Chicago Style For Your Cover Page

  • In Chicago style, cover page and title page refer to the same thing.
  • Your professor may have other requirements. Make sure you use the preferred formatting for your course.

Step 2 List the title first.

  • Capitalize the first letter of each major word in your title, but not those belonging to minor words. For example: How to Make a Cover Page
  • Alternatively, some style guides suggest that the title be presented in ALL CAPS.
  • Do not underline, italicize, or bold the title.
  • If you have a subtitle, place a colon following your title and write the subtitle on the following line.

Step 3 Write your full name.

  • Your name should be typed about three quarters of the way down the page.
  • Use the same font and size that you've used throughout the cover page.

Step 4 Specify the subject, instructor, and date in your final section.

  • Include both the name and course number of the subject.
  • Write your professor's full name and title. Use "Dr." only when appropriate. For example: "Dr. John Doe" or "Professor John Doe."

Expert Q&A

Amber Rosenberg, PCC

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Write an Essay

  • ↑ https://careercenter.georgetown.edu/major-career-guides/resumes-cover-letters/resume-formatting-tips/
  • ↑ Amber Rosenberg, PCC. Pacific Life Coach. Expert Interview. 8 March 2022.
  • ↑ http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/549/01/
  • ↑ http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/create-edit-fax-cover-page#1TC=windows-7
  • ↑ https://winningwriters.com/resources/manuscript-tips
  • ↑ http://academictips.org/mla-format/mla-format-cover-page/
  • ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/717/02/

About This Article

Amber Rosenberg, PCC

To make a cover page using MLA format, start by setting your margins to 1 inch on all sides and keeping the alignment centered. Next, choose 12 point Times New Roman for your font and place your title roughly one-third of the way down, capitalizing the first letter of every major word in your title. Then, skip several lines below the title and write your full name, as well as any other collaborators. Finally, list the name of your instructor, the name of the class, and the date, making sure to separate each element with a double-spaced line. To learn more, like how to make a cover page using APA or Chicago Style, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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This question is about resume builder .

What is a resume cover page?

A resume cover page is a letter that you write in addition to your resume when you apply for a position. A resume cover page or cover letter gives a more detailed informational approach to your overall experience and career skills.

It is meant to highlight how you are the perfect fit for the role you are applying for. It should also contain your knowledge of the specific position, the company, and why you want to work for them.

Some use the term resume cover page in the context of an actual first page of a resume, and this would contain:

Your name in large text at the top

Contact information - email, phone number, state, and/or city or town you live in

Your professional profile - a concise overview of your careers and talents

An opening statement specific to the employer

Expansion of the details of your experience and skills within your resume

Closing with a polite request for an interview

What is a resume cover page?

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ATS Resume Templates

Download an ATS-friendly resume template for free. These templates can be edited in Microsoft Word and can be accurately scanned by an applicant tracking system.

how to write a cover page for a resume

If you’ve made it to this page, then you probably already know more about applicant tracking systems (ATS) than the average job seeker. That gives you an advantage! Why?

Many companies use ATS to manage resumes and applications. In fact, Jobscan research shows that over 97% of Fortune 500 companies use an ATS.

If an ATS can’t read or understand the information on your resume, then your application might not be seen when a recruiter searches for candidates with specific skills or experience – even if you have those skills or the experience!

Your resume needs to be ATS-friendly in order to give you the best chance of getting a job interview. That means that you need an ATS resume template.

We’ve designed 15 ATS resume templates that can be downloaded as Microsoft Word files and easily edited. Download one for free or use our free resume builder to get a customized ATS-friendly resume in minutes.

Free ATS Resume Templates

Executive and Management ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

As a leader, you want your experience and accomplishments to shine. These resume templates give you opportunities to show the measurable results you’ve achieved, as well as your hard and soft skills .

Using correct formatting is critical here. The ATS needs to be able to parse all of that vital information and categorize it correctly. You also need your resume to be searchable by an ATS so that when a recruiter filters candidates by skills, your application stays on the list.

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Entry-Level ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

You might not think you have a lot to show on your resume, but you do! These templates provide sections where you can highlight your education, internships, volunteer experience , personal accomplishments, and more.

An ATS-friendly resume will help you get found by recruiters and hiring managers. This is important because an entry-level position could have hundreds of applicants! Use these templates to make sure the ATS picks up your skills and experience.

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ATS Resume Templates - What You Need to Know

How to make the perfect ats resume.

Remember, an ATS is just a computer filing system. It needs to be able to scan and understand the text on your resume in order to correctly parse the information and sort it properly.

An ATS will never auto-reject a resume, but an ATS optimized resume does make it easier for a recruiter to find you among the sea of applicants.

Even more importantly, an ATS-friendly resume naturally follows expert-recommended resume writing standards as well. That means that when the recruiter personally views your resume, it will include the relevant information they’re looking for and will be formatted in a way that makes it easier to read

Follow these tips for making the perfect ATS resume :

1. Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for

Focus on quality over quantity. Each job you apply for is unique, even if they all have the same title. Every company has different needs for that role. The job description will make it clear which hard skills, soft skills, experience, and education the company is looking for. So tailor your resume to show them that you are the perfect candidate.

Tailoring each and every resume can be time consuming, but it’s worth the effort!

You can speed up this process by using a tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner . Powered by AI-technology , this tool analyzes your resume against the job description and provides you with a resume score that tells you how closely your resume matches the job description. It also tells you exactly what you need to do to increase your score.

2. Match your resume keywords to skills found in the job description

Recruiters might use an ATS’ search function to find applicants with specific skills. How do you know what skills they will search for? By examining the job listing. Use a resume scanner to automatically pick out the hard and soft skills the recruiter might search for, and then include those on your resume.

Even if the recruiter doesn’t search applications for those skills, they’ll definitely be looking for mentions of them on each resume they review.

3. Use long-form and acronym versions of keywords

Some ATS will only return resumes with the exact keywords the recruiters would search for. For example, if you included “Search Engine Optimization” in your resume but the recruiter searched for “SEO,” your profile may not appear in the results. Try to include both the acronym and the unabbreviated form of the term.

Use a tool like Jobscan’s resume fixer to make sure your resume doesn’t contain mistakes that will eliminate you from consideration.

4. Use Chronological or Hybrid resume format to write your resume .

Recruiters do not like the functional resume format . Unless you’re making a career change, a functional resume is going to work against you. (And even then, we recommend you steer clear of the format for a career change resume .)

The best format for the ATS is traditional reverse chronological. You can also use chronological and hybrid resume formats as these are familiar to most recruiters.

5. Use an easy-to-read, traditional font

For readability, use a traditional serif or sans serif font. Untraditional or “fancy” fonts can cause parsing errors, which means the full text of your resume won’t be searchable.

6. Use standard resume section headings

Section headers like “Where I’ve Been” in place of “Work Experience” will confuse applicant tracking systems, causing them to organize information incorrectly.

7. Save your file as a .docx if possible

A docx file is most compatible with ATS.

What is the best resume format for ATS?

There are three standard resume formats to choose from in your job search. They shape your first impression and determine the way recruiters and hiring managers view your fit as an applicant.

Your resume formatting can also determine how well your resume is parsed within an applicant tracking system (ATS) and how likely you are to be noticed as a result.

Regardless of the format you use, the most important thing is to use standard section headings like Experience, Skills, and Education. That will make it easier for the ATS to categorize the text.

How to tailor your ATS-friendly resume to a job

Tailoring your resume proves to recruiters that you’re an experienced professional. Most importantly, it shows them that you’re the perfect fit for this role.

Follow these three steps for tailoring your resume to a job description:

1. Examine the specific job description of the position

Go line by line through the job description and ask yourself these questions:

  • “Does my resume experience section clearly state that I can do what’s required of this role?”
  • “Am I using the same language found in the job description or job posting?”

You might find several different or missing skills and keywords in your generic resume.

2. Match skills and keywords from the job description

Mirroring the language, keywords, and buzzwords found within the job description is the easiest way to demonstrate you’re a better match than the competition.

The best way to show you’re the best fit for the position is to take words from the job posting and strategically put them in your job descriptions and other resume sections. A resume scanner will automatically pull out these keywords in seconds and speed up this process.

3. Write your job title clearly

Recruiters might search for people who have done the job they’re hiring, so list your job titles clearly and match the titles to the one in the job posting when possible. If you haven’t held the job before, list it under your name at the top or as part of your summary section.

What is Applicant Tracking Software (ATS)?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software used to assist with human resources, recruitment, and hiring. While each system offers a different package of features, applicant tracking systems are primarily used to help hiring companies organize and navigate large numbers of applicants.

For example, an ATS stores job candidate information like resumes, cover letters, references, and other recruitment and hiring data that HR teams can easily access and organize. It will also track job candidates and their application status throughout the hiring pipeline.

Ultimately, an ATS automates time-consuming administrative tasks such as manually screening applicants, reading resumes, scheduling interviews, and sending notifications and emails to job candidates and employees.

Can you add graphics to your resume?

When it comes to creating an ATS-friendly resume , the rule is: The simpler, the better. ATS are improving at scanning different formatting features, but not all of them are good at this.

Adding graphics and images could cause ATS parsing errors , which means the text on your resume won’t be fully searchable or accurately categorized by an ATS. We recommend that job seekers err on the side of caution. Avoid graphics, images, and photos.

Are Google Docs or Microsoft resume templates ATS-friendly?

They can be. We talked about some formatting features to avoid on your resume – fancy graphics and non-traditional fonts. Those features can trip up an ATS, even if they’re on a Word document or Google Docs file.

However, as long as you follow the guidelines on this page, or use one of these ATS resume templates, you’ll be fine.

How to get your cover letter past the ATS?

To increase your cover letter’s chances of passing an ATS, focus on using a clean format without complex formatting, incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description, and ensure that your content is easy for the ATS to parse.

Consider using a tool like Jobscan’s cover letter generator to help you create an ATS-friendly cover letter. If you already have a cover letter, run it through our cover letter checker tool to get personalized feedback on how to improve your cover letter and make it more compelling to employers.

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  • Grades 6-12
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100 Last-Day-of-School Activities Your Students Will Love!

Free Teacher Resume Template and Tips, Plus 21 Teacher Resume Examples

Make a great first impression!

Free teacher resume template lying on a desk

Whether you’re searching for your first teaching job or you’re ready for a change, you’ll need a solid resume. There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there on how to write a resume that will land you an interview, so it’s worth taking some time to review teacher resume examples first. We’ve rounded up examples for pretty much any kind of educator and assembled tips for how to write a strong modern teacher resume.

Best of all, we’ve got a free, fully customizable teacher resume template to get you started quickly and easily. Fill out the form on this page to grab your template, then use our tips to start building your resume today.

Teacher Resume Tips

Teacher resume examples.

Resumes have changed a lot in recent years, so do your research to find out what the latest trends are. For instance, while an “objectives” section used to be a resume standard, people often drop this section today in favor of more space to highlight their accomplishments. Start with these general resume tips, then get more advice for completing our free teacher resume template, section by section.

General Tips

  • Keep it to one or two pages. Hiring managers don’t have time to read overly long resumes. Put the most important information up front, and remove anything that doesn’t truly strengthen your application.
  • Be honest. While you want to highlight your strengths and achievements, don’t go overboard. If you exaggerate your experience but are unable to perform certain tasks, you may put your future job at risk before you even get started.
  • Skip the gimmicks. Some people will tell you the way to make your resume stand out is to use fun fonts or a “creative” design. The fact is, people who are hiring want an easy-to-read, clear presentation that highlights your achievements and credentials. That’s what will land you an interview.
  • Tailor your resume. Keep a standard resume document that you can customize for the specific job you’re applying for. That might mean moving sections around, highlighting specific skills or experiences, or deciding which parts of your career deserve to be placed up front. Take a close look at the job description, and tailor your resume accordingly.
  • Don’t try to circumvent the system. Years ago, people would tell you to ignore requests to send your resume and instead show up in person. Our advice: Don’t do it! Application systems are nearly all online these days, and for good reason. This helps hiring committees by organizing information efficiently and ensuring they meet all anti-discrimination laws. So just send your resume and application using the method requested.
  • Don’t forget a cover letter. A great cover letter really can help your resume stand out. Learn how to make your teacher cover letter special here.

Contact Information

On today’s resumes, your mailing address is optional. In fact, if you’re looking for a job outside of your current geographical area, it can sometimes be helpful to leave it off. This way, employers won’t worry about whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

Email addresses are not optional. This is the way most schools will contact you today, so be sure to provide yours. You might want to take a look at your address to make sure it sounds relatively professional too. Ideally, it simply contains a version of your name (e.g., “[email protected]”); don’t forget you can grab a free email address from sites like Gmail if you need to. But other addresses are fine too, as long as there’s nothing questionable. “[email protected]” is fine. “[email protected]” is not.

Professional Objective/Summary

As mentioned earlier, resume objectives are used less and less today. Recent college grads or those transitioning to teaching careers might still decide to include a professional objective statement. Those with more experience have replaced objectives with a summary statement that provides an overview of their career. It’s also OK to delete this section altogether if you’d like more space in the Relevant Work Experience section.

Education and Certifications

Include your undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as any certifications or licensures you hold. Note: It’s up to you whether you include your graduation date. Some people worry it can open them up to age discrimination. You’ll likely be asked for this information if you continue in the hiring process, so they can verify your degrees.

Related Experience

This is the real meat of your teacher resume. You can list jobs chronologically starting with the most recent, or choose to place your most relevant experience first. Either way, include your employer’s name, dates of employment, and the position/s you held. Then, highlight your experience and achievements. Strive to make your statements measurable and quantifiable rather than just a listing of your job duties.

Weak statements:

  • Taught fifth grade science and math
  • Prepared students for standardized math tests
  • Oversaw annual school science fair

Strong statements:

  • Instructed 100+ students each year in fifth grade science fundamentals, including human anatomy, electricity and magnetism, and earth and space science
  • Improved standardized testing math scores by an average of 8% over a period of five years
  • Organized seven annual school science fairs by coordinating 200+ participants, finding qualified judges, and arranging for prizes donated by the community

New college grad? You should definitely include your student teaching or internship experience in this section!

Additional Experience

You can use this section to include jobs you’ve held that aren’t quite as relevant to the one you’re applying for. If you’re new to the working world, it’s OK to include non-teaching jobs here. For those with longer careers, it’s probably not necessary to list every job you’ve ever had. Just highlight any experience that helps support your application or fills any employment gaps.

Professional Honors and Leadership

If you’ve received awards or honors related to teaching, share them here. The same goes for any leadership roles you’ve held in educational professional orgs.

Professional Affiliations

If space allows, you might want to include a short list of respected professional organizations you belong to. You should definitely include them if you play a very active role, have been invited to speak as an education expert at a conference, etc. Otherwise, this section is optional.

Other Teacher Resume Sections

Here are some sections you might consider adding if you have space, and a few to skip altogether.

  • Professional skills: Don’t include this section if your skills are simply those expected of any teacher. But if you’ve built up any unusual and relevant teaching skills through experience or professional development, you could include them here. (Fluency in multiple languages, for example.)
  • Community involvement or volunteer work: If you’ve been heavily involved in community organizations that work with children or education, consider highlighting those achievements on your resume.
  • Publications: Have you published articles in an educational or professional journal, or had your work featured on a trusted, well-known website? Include any relevant articles and links.

Here’s what you don’t need on your resume:

  • Hobbies or “unique” unrelated skills (like “juggling” or “Cordon Bleu chef”).
  • Any information about religious or political affiliations, or your marital status, gender, race, or age. These could lead to potential bias or discrimination in the hiring process.
  • References: Most people leave this section off their resume these days, as job applications or hiring committees will ask you for them separately. Line up your references and gather their contact information, but hang onto them until you’re asked to provide the info. You don’t even need to put “References available upon request,” since hiring managers already assume that.

As you complete your teacher resume template, use these examples for ideas about what to include and how to word it.

1. First-time teacher

This is a great resume for teachers with little to no experience.

2. Another first-time teacher example

Here’s one more example of a great teacher resume for those with limited experience.

3. Experienced elementary teacher

This one allows you to showcase your skills in a compact, visually appealing design.

4. Another experienced elementary teacher

This is one of those teacher resume examples that work best for those with some experience but who are still early in their career. (Note: Click the link above and scroll down to find it.)

5. Summer school teacher

Use this resume to highlight the unique skills of summer school teachers who work with students who are either repeating a course or trying to get ahead for the following school year.

6. Assistant teacher

Applying for an assistant teacher job will be much easier using one of the five fantastic teacher resume examples through this resource.

7. Special education teacher

As a special educator, your responsibilities may change from minute to minute and your skills need to adapt. This template helps you simplify your experience in a one-page resume.

8. School counselor

This resume will help you showcase your excellent mentoring, counseling, and leadership skills.

9. School guidance counselor

As a guidance counselor, your role is to guide students through academic development as well as personal growth. Use this template to show you how to highlight your unique talents.

10. Library media specialist

Showcase your ability to collect and maintain the valuable resources needed to foster a strong learning environment for students.

11. High school English teacher

Use this guide to create a great English teacher resume that will highlight your communication, interpersonal, and planning skills to edge out the competition.

12. Technology teacher

Emphasize your commitment to the ongoing professional development necessary to continue integrating the latest technology into the existing curriculum, and coming up with new lesson plans for today’s classrooms.

13. Music teacher

Share and showcase your love of introducing music to students with this straightforward teacher resume.

14. Drama teacher

This resume example is simple but perfect for drama teachers who want to emphasize their experience as well as their knowledge of acting techniques and production.

15. World language teacher

Establish yourself as the ideal candidate by demonstrating teaching skills, language proficiency, communication, and organizational skills.

16. Sports coach

As a coach, this template will help you demonstrate your ability to manage teams and sports programs as well as encourage academic performance.

17. ESL teacher

This teacher resume example allows you to highlight your classroom management skills, as well as your commitment to empathy, patience, and cultural awareness. (Note: Click the link above and scroll down to find it.)

18. Math teacher

This clean resume template showcases a math teacher’s ability to break down complex math concepts through patient, meaningful engagement with students.

19. Pre-K teacher

It takes a special person to be a great pre-K teacher. Working with young children while creating lesson and activity plans, monitoring progress, and providing quality supervision takes patience and kindness.

20. Business teacher

Put your best foot forward with this business teacher resume that emphasizes teaching methods and a commitment to ongoing professional development.

21. International school teacher

Use this resume to let hiring managers know that you’re not only motivated to help students learn but uniquely qualified. Be sure to highlight any experience living or traveling abroad as well as foreign language skills.

Get Your Free Teacher Resume Template

Just fill out the form on this landing page for instant access to a free Google Doc featuring a fully customizable teacher resume template.

Plus, check out tips for teacher job fairs and the most common teacher interview questions.

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Teacher Cover Letter Examples

25 Teacher Cover Letters Examples To Help You Get Hired

Your guide to a killer cover letter that will get you that interview. Continue Reading

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