resume design tips

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Resume (With Examples!)

Your resume is arguably the most valuable piece of paper for your career. But this document can be daunting for many. Maybe you’re not sure how to fit in all your information onto one page. Maybe you’re not sure about the right way to format and write your resume. Maybe you don’t even know what the heck a resume is!

Whatever your concern, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the perfect resume, from scratch.

What Is a Resume?

What are employers looking for in a resume.

• Pick Your Format
• Start With Your Basic Information
• Add in Your Work Experience
• Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience
• Don’t Forget Your Education
• Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests
• Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)
• Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)
• Edit and Refine It

What Are Some Examples of a Good Resume?

A resume is a summary of your career, whether yours is just getting started or has been going on for years. Coming in at around one page in length (two only under specific circumstances), it showcases the jobs you’ve held and currently hold, the responsibilities you’ve taken on, the skills you’ve developed, and the qualities you bring to the table as an employee. Together, those things make it super easy for any hiring manager to see your qualifications and fit for a role.

For all the work you may put into writing one, hiring managers actually spend very little time—mere seconds in many cases—looking at your resume. But despite this sad fact, it’s safe to say that creating a great resume (rather than hastily throwing one together) still matters.

“If you miss the mark, your resume may never be read. Even worse, you might be removed from the applicant pool by a computer before a human even knows you exist,” says Muse career coach Heather Yurovsky , founder of Shatter & Shine. So you want to get it right because, as she explains, isn’t the goal to “spend less time looking for a job and more time in a role you love?”

You might be wondering if you can lean on your LinkedIn profile instead of writing a resume. The answer, sadly, is no. Most hiring managers still expect you to submit a resume, even if they also look at your LinkedIn. Even if you don’t need a resume for a job you’re applying for now, you’re going to need one at some point in your career—they’re not anywhere close to going out of style. So it’s best to always have one at the ready should an opportunity pop up.

And although LinkedIn has plenty of benefits, a resume has one clear advantage: While your LinkedIn is usually a broader picture of your career trajectory, your resume gives you the opportunity to tailor your career story to a specific role or company (more on that later).

Oh, and you’ve probably heard of something called a CV? It’s slightly different from a resume , and usually more common with academics and job seekers outside the U.S.

Hiring managers look for three things on your resume, “What did you do? Why did you do it? And what was the result?” says Muse career coach Martin McGovern , owner of Career Therapy. “If you can answer all three of these questions in...your resume bullet points, you’re going to be on the right track.”

Clear, easy-to-understand language is key. “The truth is that most resumes make no sense. They are stuffed with jargon, they are too technical, and they are filled with redundancies. Try to read a resume that isn’t yours and you will quickly realize that it feels like an alien wrote it,” McGovern adds. Put yourself in the shoes of a recruiter who has no idea how your role works—how can you make your resume accessible to them?

The hiring manager also cares about more than just you and you alone—they care about you in relation to them. “Hiring managers want to see if a candidate matches the requirements” of the role they’re hiring for, Yurovsky explains. “Your resume should paint this picture so the hiring manager not only knows what day-to-day responsibilities you can handle, but why you, above other[s], bring value to their organization.”

How Do You Write a Resume?

Whether you’re someone who’s never written a resume in your life, or you need a nice, thorough refresher on the process of creating one, follow these steps to go from a blank page to a complete—and dare I say beautiful—document.

Related: This Free Worksheet Makes It Easy to Create (or Update) Your Resume

1. Pick Your Format

Before you start typing one single thing, you have to decide what you want the overall resume to look like.

Resume builders can be helpful for this step—they’ll take all your basic information and organize it for you, eliminating some of the legwork. You can also use a pre-made outline, such as one of these free Google Docs templates .

But it’s often safest to start with a clean slate all on your own and eventually upgrade to a more advanced layout. (If you'd still like a place to write all the relevant information before you get started, check out our resume outline .) This allows you to course correct, edit and re-edit, and choose a resume format that best fits your particular situation (after all, not everyone has a career trajectory that’s easy to compartmentalize).

In general, you’re most likely to cover and/or include sections on the following:

• Your work experience
• Your non-work experience, including professional organizations, community involvement, or side projects
• Your education and certifications
• Your skills (specifically hard skills) and interests

So how do you format and organize all of that information?

By far the most common (and safest, if you’re not sure which route to take) option is reverse chronological order . This means you organize your experiences from most recent to least recent. So your work experiences would go above your education, and your current role would go above previous roles you’ve held. This of course has its exceptions—maybe you went back to grad school between jobs, or your most recent role is irrelevant to the job you’re applying for. So the whole page may not be exactly in reverse chronological order depending on your situation. It’s just a guideline.

There’s also something called a functional or skills-based resume . This is used pretty rarely, mainly with career changers and those with limited or complicated work histories. It gets its name because it’s primarily about listing your skills rather than experiences, and showcases them above your work history and education.

You can also opt for a combination resume , which is a mix between a reverse chronological resume and skills-based resume. It highlights your skills at the top, but allows just as much room below to cover your job and school experience.

Use caution when choosing these two formats: “Combo and skills-based [resumes] can be hard to follow, because [they force] the reader to hunt for connections between your skills and experience, and [don’t] provide the full context of your work,” says Muse Career Coach Angela Smith , founder of Loft Consulting. “I’ve also heard a lot of recruiters say that they automatically discount skill-based resumes because they feel the candidate is trying to hide something. I don’t necessarily believe that, but I think it’s important for job-seekers to know that perception is out there.”

2. Start With Your Basic Information

Your contact information should always go at the top of your resume. In this header you’ll want to include anything that could be helpful for a recruiter to get in touch with you. Usually, this means adding in:

• Your full name (preferably the name you use across the web)
• Your phone number
• Your personal email address

You might also choose to include other basic information, such as your LinkedIn or personal website URL, your GitHub (for technical roles), your social media profiles (if relevant to the job), or your address. If you’re looking to move for a job, you may choose to leave out your address or write “open to relocating” to better your chances of getting an interview.

The key is to make this part as clear as possible. If a hiring manager can’t reach you, there’s no point in perfecting the rest of your resume.

3. Add in Your Work Experience

This section will most likely be the bulk of your resume. Even if you’re changing careers, employers still want to see where you’ve worked, what you’ve done, and the impact of that work to get a sense of your background and expertise.

Your “Work Experience” might be one entire category, or you might choose to break it up into “Relevant Experience” and “Additional Experience” to highlight the jobs that are most important for hiring managers to focus on. Either way, you’ll almost always want to have your most recent experience at the top and your older experience down below.

Within your work experience, you’ll want to include each official job title, the company (and possibly its location), and the years you worked there. Below that, you’ll add in two to four bullet points explaining what you did in that job, the skills you built and exercised, the tools you used, and the results of what you did. If you accomplished a lot during your time there, focus on the responsibilities that made the most impact or you’re the most proud of, as well as the ones that best align you with the job you’re applying for (more on that in the following sections). It’s key here to list, if relevant, quantitative as well as qualitative accomplishments.

For example, you might write:

Associate Accountant, Finances and Co., Ann Arbor, MI September 2017 – Present

• Manage billing and invoicing for more than 50 clients, ensuring the deadlines and needs of our enterprise partners, including Big Company and Super Star Org, are met
• Collaborate closely with sales, account management, and project management teams on project setup, maintenance, and invoice management
• Assist in the streamlining of invoicing guidelines and procedures through documentation and the implementation of new software, resulting in an average two-week decrease in total time spent per client

Your resume bullets should be in past tense if you’re referring to past jobs and present tense if you’re talking about your current roles. In addition, your bullets should always start with a strong action verb that best describes what you did. And if you have examples of your work, consider hyperlinking them here as well.

If you have a ton of experience and this category is starting to run long (read: over one page), consider kicking out your oldest jobs unless they’re super relevant to the job you’re applying for, or extra impressive for your field.

Not sure where to start? “It’s helpful to do a brain dump and create a document that has everything and anything you consider as experience or an achievement,” says Yurovsky. From there, she explains, you can start to whittle down what is and isn’t important. And you can refer to this document later if you ever decide to update your resume for a specific role.

Need more specific advice on listing your work experience on your resume? Check out these additional resources:

• When you’ve held multiple jobs at the same company: 2 Jobs, 1 Company: How to Show Multiple Positions on Your Resume
• When you’re not sure what your accomplishments are or how to explain them: Resume Revamp: How to Turn Your Duties Into Accomplishments
• When you want to spruce up a boring or insignificant job: How to Make Your Most Boring Jobs Sound More Interesting on Your Resume
• When you’re considering fudging a job title: The Answer to “Can I Change My Job Title on My Resume to Make It More Accurate?”
• When you’ve had a bunch of short-term gigs: How to List Temporary Jobs on Your Resume

4. Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience

Anything you’ve done that’s not work experience—your side gig, volunteer work, special projects—can be hosted under clearly-labeled sections (“Volunteer Experience” or “Activities,” for example). Depending on how robust your work experience is, these things may be worth including, particularly if they’ve helped you level up your skill set or better align you with your dream job. Plus, they make you look that much more well-rounded, passionate, and hardworking.

If you’re a recent grad, you might also build out a section for on-campus activities, such as clubs, organizations, or leadership experience. This can be a great supplement if you’re lacking in the jobs department. You can frame these just as you would professional jobs—including your title, the organization’s name, and bullets describing what your role was and what you accomplished.

Read More: This Is Exactly How to List Volunteer Work on Your Resume

5. Don’t Forget Your Education

If you’re still in school or just graduated, your education can go at the top of your resume, but for pretty much everyone else, this goes near the bottom. Most people include their school, graduation year (for folks less up to about a decade out of school), major, and degree. Brand-new grads might also write in their GPA, honors and awards, study abroad, thesis, or other notable achievements. But keep this section super simple, as you don’t want it to take up too much space over your work experience.

It’s possible you have unique education experience, such as taking an online course or certification. If you did this specifically as a way to boost yourself within your industry, definitely include it. Again, list everything more or less reverse chronologically—so a grad school degree would go above an undergrad degree, and a more recent relevant online course would go above that.

Learn more about the ins and outs of listing your education on your resume:

• How to (and How Not to) List Education on Your Resume
• How to List Online Courses on Your Resume the Right Way (Because Yes, There Is a Wrong Way)

6. Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests

The skills section of a resume gets a bad rap, but it’s just as important as the rest of the stuff you include. It’s a quick list a recruiter can scan to see if your skill set aligns with what they’re hiring for. And it’s super ATS-friendly (ATS stands for “applicant tracking system,” the robot that in some cases reads your resume before a human does) because it allows you to add in keywords the machine is scanning for.

Usually this section goes at the bottom of your resume, but in special cases—such as a skills-based resume or when someone’s switching fields—you may place it further up.

What exactly do you throw in here? You’ll want to list any hard skills and applications you’re familiar with (Photoshop, SEO, JavaScript, to name a few examples), and, if relevant, your level of expertise. Avoid including soft skills here, like time management or public speaking—save those for your bullet points instead.

Be strategic when filling in your skills. Don’t list things you actually couldn’t do at a high competence level (I’m looking at those of you who say you’re “great” at Excel), and maybe nix skills that are completely irrelevant to the job you want. For example, you may not even need to include Excel if you’re applying for say, a design position, unless it’s listed as a job requirement.

Maybe you’re thinking, I’m a really good volleyball player, but that’s not a “skill,” right? No, it’s not, but it is a hobby. Adding in a hobby section at the bottom of your resume is underrated, and frequently a smart choice. It can be a great conversation starter with a hiring manager, and it can show that you’re a good culture fit—or a culture add—for the company. Also, it’s just a nice way to add in some of your personality. So tack on a bullet point listing out some of your interests, such as hiking, rowing, or crafting (no more than five to seven work-appropriate verbs), and you’re all set here.

7. Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)

You may have heard of a resume summary statement . They’re not super common, but they can be useful to include near the top of your resume if you’re looking to add clarity or context to your resume. If you’re a career changer, you might find a summary statement helpful in explaining your leap and tying your experience to your new path. Or if you’re a more experienced professional, you can use a summary statement to highlight a theme that brings your career trajectory together.

Overall, you probably won’t need a summary statement if your career is pretty linear and your bullet points do a great job of emphasizing what you have to offer in terms of skills and experience. But if you think it makes sense to include one, “Take the time to think about what the person reading your summary wants to know before you write it,” says McGovern. “Good summaries explain why you do what you do and how it can help. For instance: Merging a background in ABC, I help companies improve XYZ through 123. Summaries shouldn’t be any more complicated than that.”

So, taking McGovern’s example, you might say:

Merging a background in social media marketing and PR with seven years in the consumer tech space, I help companies improve their internal and external communication and brand awareness through data-driven, quality content and strategies that align with the modern trends of the space.

Yurovsky adds that “you don’t want your summary statement to be a dense paragraph with too much information. You want it to be easy to read, concise, and memorable. Almost like a tagline.”

Read More: 3 Resume Summary Examples That’ll Make Writing Your Own Easier

8. Tailor It to the Job (and the ATS)

Once you have your resume written out—you’ve broken down your work experience, tagged on some activities and additional experiences, and listed out your skills—it’s important to go back to the job description (or multiple job descriptions, if you’re applying to several similar jobs) and make sure that what your resume says matches up with the kind of candidate the employers are looking for. In other words, tailor it .

Let’s explain further. You’ll want to begin by tackling the ATS . This means combing the job description to see if individual words and phrases line up. What skills are they asking for, and have you listed them (so long as you actually have them)? What words are they using to describe their ideal hire, and do you use similar language in your resume?

Next, take a bird’s-eye view. If you were the hiring manager for the role, where on your resume would your eyes be drawn to? And what would you be looking for? Whatever you think will be most important for the recruiter, make sure it’s near the top of your resume, or otherwise emphasized.

Finally, dig into the role and responsibilities of the job. Does your resume reflect similar experience? If not, is there a way you can spin it so that it’s clear you’re capable of doing the job (and doing it well)?

These articles can help you if the word “tailoring” makes you start to sweat:

• What It Really Means to “Tailor Your Resume”
• Your Guide to Making Unrelated Experience Look Relevant on Your Resume
• A Cool Trick: How to Spin 1 Resume Bullet 5 Different Ways

9. Edit and Refine It

Please, please don’t just write your resume and shoot it out without giving it a second glance. Hiring managers may not spend hours browsing it, but if there’s one thing that sticks out more than anything else it’s a glaring typo.

The best approach? Write a rough draft, then leave and come back to it later with fresh eyes to give it an edit.

Cover the basics: Is your contact information correct and updated? Are you using the right verb tenses? Does everything look consistent and accurate in terms of spelling and grammar?

Then do some cutting if your resume’s quite long. It’s no longer a hard-and-fast rule that all resumes must be only one page—but consider it a smart guideline for most applicants, especially if you've got less than 10 years work experience. The exception is if you’re very senior or very established in your career; in this scenario, a two-page resume isn’t completely out of the question. Everyone else, read this article for advice on how to cut your resume down.

Formatting-wise, it’s key to consider a couple things. First, what font are you using , and is it legible (for a human and a robot)? When in doubt, go with one of these simple, but sleek, options: Arial, Arial Narrow, Calibri, Cambria, Garamond, or Helvetica.

Second, are you going to save it as a Word document or PDF ? Neither option is wrong, although a PDF helps ensure that your formatting is maintained, no matter what type of computer the hiring manager uses to open the document.

Third, is your resume formatted in a way that it’s skimmable? If it’s feeling crowded or overrun with words, read this: 12 Tiny Changes That Make Your Resume Easy for Recruiters to Skim .

Once you’ve given it a few good looks, it may be worth sending it to a friend or colleague (or even a career coach ) to get a second opinion. Don’t just have them edit it for spelling and grammar—they should dig into your bullets and offer feedback on whether or not your resume is showing you in the best possible light (it’s smart to also send them the job description for something to compare it to).

Here’s the thing: Your resume won’t ever look exactly like someone else’s, nor should it. How you choose to format it, organize your information, and talk about specific experiences depends not just on your career path, but on your field, the job you’re applying for, the company that job is at, and more.

So there isn’t a universal way to do a resume. But there are common themes. To give you some context as to how yours might turn out, here are three examples of different kinds of resumes.

The Most Popular: A Reverse Chronological Resume

As previously mentioned, a reverse chronological resume is preferred by many coaches and HR experts, mainly because it’s super readable. When everything’s in a clear order, it’s easy to skim and even easier to draw lines between experiences.

Who it’s good for: Just about everyone—from students applying to internships all the way up to senior-level executives (with an optional resume summary statement)

Download an Example Chronological Resume for a Software Engineer

The Unorthodox Route: A Functional or Skills-Based Resume

Rather than listing out your experience in reverse chronological order, a functional or skills-based resume has bullet points that reflect how each of your skills is demonstrated by the work you’ve done over the course of your career. At the bottom, you’ll include everything else, such as your education, job history, professional achievements, community involvement, and other technical skills. This is a good option if you have a somewhat all-over-the-place work history and want to tie everything together neatly.

Who it’s good for: Career changers whose work experiences may not appear to be relevant and people with an abundance of temporary jobs or gaps in their work histories.

Download an Example Functional Resume for a Project Manager

The Creative Angle: An Infographic Resume or Resume Website

This resume type is characterized by how it’s formatted visually. You may choose a reverse chronological order or skills-based style to organize your information, but also use graphics, colors, unique fonts, and even multimedia elements to help that information pop. Keep in mind that any creative resume is still likely subject to an ATS—and certain elements may be unreadable by a robot. So consider going this route only if you know a human will be reading your resume (and that said human might enjoy it).

Who it’s good for: People applying to creative roles (designers, editors, writers, marketers, video producers, for example), startups, or fun companies, or to jobs where a creative resume is encouraged, if not required.

Download an Example Infographic Resume for a Designer

Not a designer but want your resume to look just as pretty as this example? Check out these articles:

• 5 Sites to Create an Awesome Infographic Resume (Even if You’re the Least Creative Person Ever)
• How to Build a Resume Website That Will Impress Every Hiring Manager Who Sees It
• 5 Digital Tools That Will Make Your Resume Infinitely More Beautiful

Your resume is a living, breathing document. So while you won’t go through this whole process every time you apply for a job, you should be thinking about all these things as you go to update your resume for your next career step. You might decide later on to switch up the order, or remove or add things, or even get creative and try out a whole new format. If you’re not getting the calls back you expect, you may decide to scrap it and start over —and that’s totally OK.

Regardless of where this piece of paper goes and how it grows, when you give it the care and attention it deserves, you set yourself up for success. And you’ll make it that much more likely that you’ll land an interview and get the chance to prove to the hiring manager—over the phone or in person—what you’ve got to offer.

👀 Turn any prompt into captivating visuals in seconds with our AI-powered design generator ✨ Try Piktochart AI!

15 Winning Resume Design Tips Plus Customizable Templates

Job hunting.

It’s a full-time job, and standing out in a sea of identical-looking resumes requires a bit of effort.

You might have a lot of relevant experience, but if your resume is not eye-catching – you run the risk of getting passed up. You need to find a way to stand out.

And if you’re applying for that dream job without fulfilling all the required qualifications, there might be a different way to leverage what you’ve got .

How? A well-designed resume.

This guide to resume design highlights expert tips from hiring managers, recruiters, and HR professionals.

Whether you’re applying for your first job or planning a career change, keep reading for resume design ideas and professional resume templates that you can edit and download in minutes. 

To follow along and get access to free resume templates,  create a free Piktochart account  to make your first (or second!) creative infographic resume .

Table of contents

Why you need to be thoughtful about your resume design

• Tip #1: Make your job skills as modern as you are
• Tip #2: Make sure your CV is mobile-friendly
• Tip #3: Consider your target industry when choosing color schemes
• Tip #4: Use your resume to tell a story
• Tip #5: Give a (design) nod to your line of work
• Tip #6: Use your resume as a personal branding document
• Tip #7: Use design that’s right on top of the trends
• Tip #8: Choose the right font for your resume
• Tip #9: Emphasize your contact information section visually
• Tip #10: Make your content as skimmable as possible
• Tip #11: Make your resume printable
• Tip #12: Use fun design elements in moderation
• Tip #13: Consider your layout
• Tip #14: Think about hierarchy
• Tip #15: Mind your structure
• 10 professional resume templates you can download

You’re probably wondering why the fuss about the look of your resume.

Why care about resume layout and content when you’re highly qualified for the job?

The truth is that recruiters and hiring managers won’t know about your extensive work experience, impressive portfolio, or educational background unless you find a way to stand out from the rest of jobseekers.

You need a visually interesting resume that will get the recruiting team’s attention and prompt them to review it.

Not convinced?

C heck out the recruitment yield pyramid from Workable below. It visualizes the standard recruitment process that most companies have.

Out of 240 applications, only 15 candidates were selected for a first interview, so that’s around 6 percent. An infographic resume can help increase your chance to be a part of the 6 percent!

The good news is you don’t have to be a professional designer to make your resume pop and get noticed by potential employers.

Let’s get started with the expert tips for resume design below. Each tip is also loaded with resume design ideas and examples to inspire you.

1. Make your job skills as modern as you are

Beyond the usual marketing, design, and coding skills, your employer also wants to know if you’ll be a cultural fit and a team player – and these depend a lot on your soft skills.

We might even call these 21st century job skills , a combination of social and process skills, and it is important to include them alongside your technical abilities. Here are a handful that might be a good fit:

2. Make sure your CV is mobile-friendly

While it’s worth pointing out that most headhunters out there are tapping away on LinkedIn via their laptops, you should consider that your CV and cover letter might be opened on a smartphone. And that’s where a mobile-responsive document really comes into play. Here are four things to keep in mind when creating a mobile-friendly CV :

• Use typography that would be easy to view on any device.
• Test to ensure that text is readable. Never go over 2-3 lines of text.
• Include your professional title, career highlights, career summary , and qualifications at the top of your CV.
• Add hyperlinks to your portfolio or social links.

3. Consider your target industry when choosing color schemes

Of course, you won’t always be trying to create a mobile-friendly resume, especially when you’d like to get a bit creative. Color schemes are a great way to create a certain kind of mood in your resume, which could attract the attention of the right HR manager. One way to do this is to match your resume’s color scheme to the industry that you’re looking to be a part of. For instance, if you are applying for a role in more conservative industries such as banking or law, you might want to go with black or darker tones to show you mean business. If you’re applying to a creative agency or a tech startup, you’ll have a lot more flexibility in terms of the color schemes you can use. Don’t be afraid to go bright to attract eyeballs.

With Piktochart Visual , you can either select from our available color schemes or make your own. Try Piktochart for free .

4. Use your resume to tell a story

To really capture the attention of the hiring manager’s eye, you’ll benefit from telling a story with your resume.

Believe it or not, you’ll actually be able to use storytelling tactics that are old as time to do this.

Here are a handful of resume storytelling tips that apply very well to resume writing:

• Include characters – You are the star of the show, but remember to include your boss, customers, employees, and co-workers. Create emphasis on how your role operated in relation to them. Who did you report to? How many people did you manage?
• Don’t forget the setting – Could be the company you’ve worked for but also the division, department, region, or team. This gives context, but can also show things such as international experience.
• Make sure your resume has a plot – Perhaps all the odds were against you but you solved the problem and achieved success (dragon slaying). Or you worked with others to achieve a major goal while overcoming challenges along the way (the hero’s quest).
• Don’t skimp on the conflict –  Giving context to the conflict you’ve faced in your career shows growth and initiative. Did you redesign an inefficient process or reverse declining sales? Make sure you talk about it!

Immanuel, our former content specialist told a wonderful story in his beautiful resume by creating an interactive application that was sleek, fun, and well-designed.

5. Give a (design) nod to your line of work

Consider your resume as an extension of yourself and the work that you do.

So why not use design elements that will give a nod to your profession? For example, if you work in the publishing industry, you can try to give your resume a “bookish” vibe which can be accomplished by:

• Structuring your resume layout to look like a book page
• Using classic typography such as Caslon

6. Use your resume as a personal branding document

A personal brand is a way of marketing yourself through a number of avenues – which is usually done by crafting a cohesive persona through social media accounts and a website.

The idea here is to create an online identity that helps you put your best foot forward, especially when it comes to landing professional opportunities. So why can’t your resume also be a part of your personal branding strategy?

Here are a handful of tips that you can use to build a personal brand through your resume.

• Create a personal logo for yourself using a symbol or even just your initials . See Aaron Johnson ’s personal branding logo in the image below.

• Consistency is key . Make sure that you set rules for the layout of your resume, whether it’s in font choice, text sizing, and alignment.
• Choose a color scheme that reflects your personal brand.    

For example, Matteo in the example below, is using bright colors such as yellow and orange as a part of his personal brand as an illustrator and designer.

7. Use design that’s right on top of the trends

If you are applying for jobs in creative industries, you will be competing with a sea of candidates that will be thinking out of the box when it comes to their application.

In order to stay ahead of the pack, you should consider designing your resume in a way that is spot on with graphic design trends to avoid looking outdated.

For instance, flat design is currently right on-trend with website and apps. Using this type of design in your resume, like in the example below, will communicate to hiring managers that you are on top of your design game.

8. Choose the right font for your resume

While you want to make sure your resume is legible, you also want to stand out while everyone else is playing safe with the likes of Arial or Times New Roman.

The right font can help you stand out, and also keep eyeballs from bouncing away from your resume. So what should you keep in mind when selecting a font?

• Keep your font sizes between 11 and 13 points. You want a happy balance between being able to fit enough items into your resume, while it still being legible.
• Keep font sizes consistent – headers should be all the same size for example.
• Serif fonts work well for digital fields or roles that involve creative work, while sans serif fonts are a better fit for more conservative industries. This is because serif fonts generally have an extra design and stroke embellishment at the end of letters, while serif fonts keep it simple.

9. Emphasize your contact information section visually

Recruiters apparently spend just seven measley seconds reviewing your resume.

To make sure that your resume gets picked out of the crowd, and keeping those seven seconds in mind, why not place a lot of visual emphasis on your contact information section?

Here are a number of things you can do to make your contact info section stand out:

• Use icons (we have lots of them in Piktochart!) to add live links to your personal website, social media, email address, and portfolio.
• Use white space to draw the recruiter’s eye into your contact information.
• Use color – you can change the color of the text itself, or create a new background color just for your contact info section.

In the example below, Paolo Pettigiani uses a pop of color and white space for his contact info page.

10. Make your content as skimmable as possible

Make your content as easy as possible to skim through so that readers should be able to pick up your strengths and essential information as quickly as possible.

Here are a few ways to make your resume skimmable:

• Use columns to organize your resume that is bursting at the seams with info. You can also experiment with using columns that are different sizes.
• Format your content by using headings, subheadings, bullet points, and white space.
• Try using an infographic and help those text-weary recruiters by using visuals instead .

Martin Suster ’s infographic resume below is a good example.

11. Make your resume printable

Despite dressing up your resume with a handful of design elements, visuals, and colors, it would be a good idea to make your resume printable.

A printable resume is important for those interviewers that like to avoid using their laptop during the interview.

It also makes your resume as user-centered as possible , and making it printable is one way to focus on the user experience of your resume.

Here are a few things you should do for a print-friendly resume:

• Make sure that your resume can be printed in black and white.
• Use a font that is legible; 11 to 13 points will work.
• Minimize the number of pages of your resume – 1 to 2 pages is fine, but 15 is not.
• Having a personal branded logo on your resume is a nice touch, but make sure your name is still on it.
• Save your printable resume in PDF.

It is still possible to make your resume visually appealing while making it also printable , like in the example below .

12. Use fun design elements in moderation

While design elements such as flat icons, images, and bright colors could help your resume stand out from the pack, using too many can cause a visual overload for the viewer and could actually distract from the actual purpose of the resume. To avoid using an overwhelming amount of design elements, here are a handful of tips to be mindful of:

• Use only a small handful of colors, as too many can be distracting .
• Work with the basic shapes that can be found within your word processor.
• Consider using graphic lines to add personality.

The example below uses just one color and graphic lines to create a neat and organized resume.

13. Consider your layout

Layout is an important factor when putting your resume together.

Whether you’re after a role at a creative agency or a bank, keeping your resume organized and tidy should be your number one priority. Here are a handful of things to consider when it comes to your resume layout:

• Think about alignment when filling in your job duties. All your headers and bullet points should line up, otherwise it creates a very confusing visual experience.
• Try using text boxes, which you’ll be able to easily drag and drop around your resume page – making layout creation a lot easier.
• Keep your audience in mind while thinking outside of the box if possible. While traditional roles will expect a fairly standard resume, jobs in creative fields will allow you to roll up your sleeves a bit more.

The landscape layout of the resume below makes it different from the others, helping it stand out in a sea of poorly designed resumes with portrait layouts.

14. Think about hierarchy

Another element to consider when putting together your resume is hierarchy.

The general rule here is that the most important information in your resume should go towards the top, with the more non-essential information in the bottom. When it comes to hierarchy of your resume design, here are a few things to take note of:

• Create a profile at the top of the resume, under your contact information, which summarizes your job history, skills (technical/soft), and where your expertise lies. Don’t forget to include an eye-catching header.
• If you have a lot of work experience, create two sections for your list of past and current jobs and projects. Label one “relevant experience” which pertains to the new job you’re applying for, and one that is “work experience” which will house the remainder of your roles.
• Also worth considering is where you place your “education” section. If you are a fresh grad (bachelors, masters, or PhD. even), you definitely want to put your education near the top of your resume. If your work experience carries more weight, then you can keep your education near the end.    

The resume below is an example of a clear and succinct CV, along with a well-thought-out data visualization of the resume’s skills section.

15. Mind your structure

If you think of your resume as something to be built, then you’ll understand the important of structure.

A great way to approach structuring your resume is by using a “grid structure,” which introduces columns, rows, visual dividers, and white space.

A grid keeps all the data that you’re presenting organized and makes skimming a lot easier. The example below shows a resume organized with a grid structure.

Level up your resume design with these 10 customizable resume templates

Now that you’re an up-and-coming expert in resume design and writing, it’s time to apply this new knowledge to your CV and make your best resume ever.

Our designers have created a batch of professional resume templates to help you put your best foot forward when it comes to applying for your next job.

Whether you’re a marketer, data scientist, or financial analyst – we’ve got the perfect resume template for you.

Don’t forget to create a Piktochart account (it’s free) so that you can give our resume maker a try and easily customize the CV templates below.

1. One-page simple resume template

2. Customizable one-page resume template for social media specialists

3. Minimalist and clean resume template

4. Black and white resume template

5. Resume template with bold header

6. Formal resume design template

7. Three-page creative resume template

8. Modern resume template

9. Two-page professional resume template

10. Casual resume template

Give some of these resume design templates a try, save time, and get one step closer to the job of your dreams. 

We also made the additional resources below to help you create your best resume ever, get called for an interview, and bag your dream career:

• How to Create an Infographic Resume Plus Templates and Examples  (guide)
• How to Create an Infographic Resume in Less Than 10 Minutes With Piktochart  (video tutorial)
• 70 Well-Designed Resume Examples for Your Inspiration (guide)
• Creating a Perfect Resume in the Time of Coronavirus (guide)

Editor’s note:  This blog post was originally published on May 6, 2018 and updated on April 26, 2022 for relevance, new templates, and comprehensiveness.

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25+ Creative Resume Designs to Inspire You [Updated 2024]

On average, a recruiter looks at a resume for just around 7 seconds . 

Yep, 7 seconds is all it takes for them to decide if they’re going to reject the resume and never look at it again, or give it a deeper look.

So, what does this mean for you?

This means that your resume should be well-designed to grab their attention, and easy to skim to make sure that the recruiter finds the information they’re looking for ASAP.

And in this article, we’ll teach you how, exactly, you can achieve that with 51+ inspirational resume designs!

Let’s give them a look!

Want a well-designed, engaging resume without having to spend hours formatting it?

Give our resume builder a try! You’ll be able to create a job-winning resume in less than 5 minutes.

#1. Start Bold

Your resume header is the first thing that a recruiter looks at during those 7 seconds of skimming, so it’s important that you have a header that pops. You can do that by using a color that contrasts with the rest of the resume, like in the design above. You can get this template over here .

#2. The “Less Is More” Resume Design

If you stand by “less is more”, then a clean, sharp-looking, minimalist resume template is what you’re looking for. This puts more focus on the information written on the resume with some minimal color use. If you’d like to use this design, you can find the template here . 

#3. Use Columns to Separate and Organize

Creating a simple, organized, and pleasant-to-look-at resume can be as easy as that. Split your sections into separate columns, emphasize the section titles or any important detail, and you’re good to go. The design above has two columns for a professional, organized, and minimalistic look. You can find the template for this design over here. 

#4. No Distractions

For some positions and companies, a colorful and engaging resume isn’t considered appropriate. In that case, you should go for a simple, text-based resume that focuses on the information presented. You can experiment with the fonts and the resume layout but still maintain a rather traditional and professional look. You can get this template here .

#5. Use a Resume Builder

Want to create a compelling resume, without having to spend hours perfecting the resume design?

Try our resume builder! Pick from our 16 well-designed templates , fill in the contents, and you’re good to go.

#6. Be Contrasting 

Whether it’s between the header and the body of the resume, or between the skills section and the rest, creating contrast in your resume can be a good move. Stevani Wilhemmsons chose dark gray and mustard to create this interesting color block scheme. It’s attention-grabbing but has an overall minimalist feel to it. 

#7. Add Some 3D Elements

The smallest details, like shadows, can make your resume come to life. This will give it a playful edge and will make the specific elements stand out. Literally. The design above adds a new dimension to the resume sections by making them look folded. 

#8. Matching Color Palette 

Using coordinated colors for your resume gives it a playful but still organized look. Depending on the scheme you use, you can up or lower the “drama” level. You can go for a minimalistic look and use pastel colors, or make your resume pop with some purple and pink tones just like Sneha Sur Roy did. 

#9. Give a Different Perspective 

How about switching things up and presenting your resume in landscape orientation? Now that’s surely something that will leave an impression. It will also allow you to experiment more with the way you present the information and how you divide sections. Check out this refreshing horizontal design by Derya Dilara Dogan . 

#10. Preview Your Work

If you’re in the design, illustration, or photography industry, you can turn your resume into part of your art and incorporate some of your work. Stefany Puche , a designer from Argentine, decided to showcase one of her illustrations into her resume. Can’t get more unique than that!

#11. Fold It Up

A folded resume will surely leave an impression on whoever gets to open it. Check out this awesome folding design by Artalic Graphics . Going through your resume turns into a visual experience. 

#12. Timeline

Want to show off your career journey in a chronological timeline? This resume design can help! You can see in the example above by Sarah Attia how easy it is to follow and go over her education and work experience information. 

#13. Illustrate Information

An interesting detail to add to your resume is illustrations. Accompanying your skills with some illustrated icons can add some life to even the most boring of resumes. It also allows you to play with some other elements other than colors and shapes. This resume by Edgielyn Ventura uses illustrations to accompany the list of services that the applicant can offer. 

Only use illustrations on your resume if you’re applying to a company that doesn’t use an applicant tracking system (ATS) . Otherwise, the ATS won’t be able to read your resume, and automatically discard it.

Want to make sure that your resume is ATS-friendly? Use one of our resume templates ! 

All our templates are compatible with the most popular applicant tracking systems on the market.

#14. Signature Detail 

Your own logo, stamp, personalized font, or even tagline is the perfect detail for a pastel-colored unique resume design. The bonus with this detail is that you can turn it into your own “brand” and use it in other places like letters and business cards as well. In the example above , the applicant used a simple logo to customize the resume. 

#15. Dark Background, Light Text

Instead of the classic light background and dark text, you can switch it up and do the opposite. The design above uses a dark gray background with a contrasting mint text. Remember to use a subtle dark color for the background and a readable one for the text, so that the combination isn’t too hard on the eyes. 

#16. Color-block Sections

Creating separate sections for different pieces of information in your resume creates a very structured and easy-to-navigate look. You can do so by using different blocks of color or by framing the sections with borders. The example above uses a black background with contrasting pastel-colored grids to organize the information in the resume. 

#17. Experiment With the Shape

This is quite a risky move since not all recruiters appreciate it, but if it’s in the right hands, it leaves quite the impression. Having a round or triangular resume is sure going to make you stand out. You need to make sure, however, that the text is readable and the design is not overwhelming. You don’t want the interviewer to struggle with going through it. This resume by John Mujica has a unique round layout, large capital-letter font, and subtle colors.  

We only recommend using such a creative resume template if you’re applying for a position in the creative industry, where they’ll appreciate the novelty.

#18. Fonts Can Make a Difference

Check out the example above by Corinne Garcia for the nice use of fonts.

#19. Mobile-friendly Resume Design 

If you have your resume linked online (on your website or platforms like Linkedin), you should make it accessible for people using a mobile phone. This design by Mathieu Hervouet makes it easy to navigate and read the resume from a cell phone.

#20. Resume Frame

Adding a border around your resume can be a nice touch if you’re looking to keep a minimalist style, but still add some originality to it. You can add a plain color border, an image, or an illustration like in the design example above . 

#21. Deliver the Full Experience 

If you will be sending your resume by mail, you can put in some extra effort and turn it into a package. We’re talking about a customized envelope, folded resume, and even a personalized logo or sticker. This design by Lenka Kubisova is the perfect example.

#22. Use a Monogram

Don’t want to include a picture on your resume ? You can substitute your photo with a monogram with your initials. It will look like a logo and give your resume a personal touch. Take a look at the minimalist monogram in Lime Resumes’ design. 

#23. Use A “Star” Color

If you want to add some drama to your resume, but don’t want to step out of the lines too much, you can go for a simple, minimalist resume and break the contrast with one accent color. It can be a light pastel green or a bright purple - whatever level of oomph you’re looking for. Prarthana Katariya and Jinkal Kalathiya used a lovely green to add life to their design. 

#24. Make It B I G

If colors and illustrations aren’t really your thing, you can still make a statement with your resume by using big, bold headers - nothing more. In their design, CPGR used very subtle colors, but they made their resume stand out by their big headers and even bigger first letters. 

#25. Self-Branding Package

#26. Brain Scan 

This is a great design, especially for illustrators, since they can also use it to showcase their talents. Yuri Kim’s resume looks like the report of a brain analysis with a half-circular timeline of education and work experiences as well as visual representations of skills and hobbies.

To wrap things up, we’ll give you some last pointers. 

• Your resume design is a reflection of your personality. Choose wisely.
• Not every industry/company appreciates every resume design. Choose appropriately.
• Font type and size can change the whole vibe of the resume. Choose tastefully.

Want to learn more about writing a compelling resume? Check out our complete guide to writing a resume .

Discover More Resume Templates

• Functional Resume Templates
• Combination Resume Templates
• Chronological Resume Templates
• Google Docs Resume Templates
• Word Resume Templates
• High School Resume Templates
• One Page Resume Templates
• 2 Page Resume Templates

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40+ Resume Tips and Advice for 2024 [with Expert Insights] | Enhancv

In This Guide:

Structure and formatting resume tips, content resume tips, tailoring and customization resume tips, tips for using ai to write your resume, additional resume tips.

Crafting the perfect resume can feel like a daunting task, but with the right advice, you can create a stand-out resume  that captures the attention of potential employers.

Whether you're a seasoned professional looking to update your resume or a recent graduate stepping into the job market, our comprehensive guide will help you demonstrate your skills and experiences effectively. From structuring your resume to highlighting key achievements, these tips will make your resume shine and increase your chances of landing that dream job.

So you’re already familiar with what a resume is —all the different and possible parts of a resume , maybe some typical resume mistakes  to avoid, and perhaps even exactly how to write a resume .

In that case, the next step is to familiarize yourself with the following tips. They’re sure to help you in the final stretch to get your resume ready to impress!

Structure and formatting are crucial on a resume because they ensure your information is easily readable and accessible to hiring managers. A well-structured resume puts the spotlight on your key qualifications, skills, and achievements, making it easier for employers to quickly see why you’re a strong candidate.

Good formatting also helps your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) , which many companies use to screen applicants.

By organizing your resume clearly and professionally, you make a positive first impression and increase your chances of landing an interview.

1. Study the job posting

Tailoring your resume to match the job description  is crucial in catching the eye of recruiters and passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Begin by thoroughly reading the job posting to understand the specific skills and experiences the employer is looking for. Highlight the keywords and phrases used in the job description, especially those listed under "Responsibilities," "Qualifications," or "Requirements." These keywords should be seamlessly incorporated into your resume, reflecting your qualifications in a way that matches the employer’s expectations.

For instance, if the job posting mentions proficiency in “project management” and “ budgeting ,” ensure these terms are included in your resume where relevant.

If you’re applying for a marketing manager position , your resume might include a bullet point like:

• Managed a team of 5 in the successful launch of a $50,000 marketing campaign, increasing brand awareness by 30%.

2. Structure your resume properly

A well-structured resume makes it easier for recruiters to find the information they need. Typically, an application should include the following resume sections : Header, Summary/Objective, Employment History, Skills, and Education.

The header should contain your contact information; the summary should provide a brief overview of your professional background; employment history should list your previous jobs in reverse chronological order; the skills section should highlight your relevant abilities; and education should detail your academic background.

Resume structure example

• Header : Jeffery Holmes | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe
• Summary : Experienced Marketing Professional with 5+ years in digital marketing, specializing in SEO and content strategy.
• Employment history :

Marketing Manager, ABC Corp, 2019-present : Increased web traffic by 40% through SEO improvements.

• Skills : SEO, Content Strategy, Google Analytics
• Education : Bachelor’s in Marketing, XYZ University, 2014

3. Create an eye-pleasing header

Your resume header  is the first thing potential employers will see, so it should be clear, attractive, and professional. Ensure it includes your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile .

You may also include your city and state, but avoid unnecessary details like your full address unless required.

Use a larger font size for your name to make it stand out and ensure the contact information is easy to read.

4. Choose the right resume format

Selecting the appropriate resume format  is essential for presenting your information effectively.

• The reverse chronological format , which lists your work history starting with the most recent, is ideal for those with a steady career progression.
• The functional format  focuses on skills rather than job history, making it suitable for those with gaps in employment or changing careers.
• The hybrid or combination format merges these two, highlighting skills and work history, which can benefit professionals with a varied work background.

5. Keep it concise

A concise resume is more likely to be read and appreciated by recruiters. Aim to keep your resume length  to one page  if you have less than ten years of experience. This forces you to prioritize the most relevant and impactful information, ensuring that every word adds value.

Among the most effective ways to shorten your resume  is using bullet points to clearly present your achievements and avoid long paragraphs.

Instead of detailing every job duty, focus on key achievements:

• Reduced page load time by 40% through optimization techniques.

6. Use a professional font

Using a clean, sophisticated resume font  makes your document easy to read and ensures it looks professional.

Stick to ATS-friendly fonts , like:

• Times New Roman

Also, remember to keep the size between 10-12 points for body text, however, for headings, a slightly larger size (13-14 points) can be used to help differentiate sections.

7. Maintain consistent formatting

Consistency in formatting makes your resume look organized and professional. Ensure that all headings, bullet points, and text align properly.

Use the same font and style throughout your resume, and keep the resume layout  clean and uncluttered.

8. Use appropriate margins

Typically, one-inch resume margins  on all sides are ideal for a resume, but don’t go less than 0.5”. This provides enough white space to make the document easy to read while fitting in all the necessary information.

If you find you have too much white space, consider spacing your lines by 1.15 or 1.5.

9. Quantify your achievements

Quantifying your achievements with numbers and statistics  helps substantiate your accomplishments and gives a clear picture of your impact. This makes your resume more compelling and provides concrete evidence of your success.

Increased website traffic by 50%  through strategic SEO improvements.

10. Proofread and get feedback

Typos and grammatical errors on your resume  can leave a negative impression on recruiters. After proofreading yourself, have friends, family, or colleagues review it to provide additional insights and catch mistakes you might have missed. This extra step ensures your resume is polished and professional.

Consider using the  Enhancv resume builder  to avoid typos. The built-in Content Suggestion software automatically checks your work for errors. It also provides specific feedback and language to improve your resume.

You can also  enable grammar-checking on Microsoft Office  or Google Docs  to proofread as you write. Another excellent option is Grammarly , which provides plug-ins to further enhance the grammar check on Microsoft or Google Docs products.

11. Save as PDF or Word

Unless a job posting specifically requests otherwise, save your resume as a PDF or Word document .

These formats are easily opened and can be read by ATS. PDFs are particularly useful as they preserve your formatting across different devices and programs.

12. Name your file clearly

When saving your resume, use a clear and professional filename . This makes it easier for hiring managers to find your document and reflects a professional attitude.

Simple formula:

FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf.

13. Resume icons

Using icons on your resume can enhance visual appeal and readability, making key sections easier to identify and creating a strong initial impact. However, overuse can clutter your resume and affect ATS compatibility.

To balance aesthetics and functionality, use icons sparingly for contact information, skills, and section headers. Ensure consistency in style and size, choose simple, recognizable icons, and keep the majority of your content text-based to avoid parsing issues with ATS.

14. Using lines on a resume

Using lines on your resume can enhance readability and visual appeal by clearly separating different sections. Place lines purposefully to divide major sections like Contact Information, Professional Summary, Work Experience, Education, and Skills.

Opt for thin, light-colored lines to maintain a clean, professional design and ensure consistency in style and thickness throughout. Maintain adequate spacing around lines to avoid clutter, and use them sparingly to highlight key sections without disrupting the flow of information.

Thoughtful use of lines improves organization and clarity, making it easier for recruiters to quickly find and understand your qualifications.

15. Be honest

Honesty on your resume is crucial. Exaggerating or lying on your resume  about your qualifications can be easily uncovered and can damage your credibility. Be truthful about your skills and experiences!

16. Update regularly

Regularly updating your resume  ensures it reflects your latest achievements, skills, and experiences. This keeps you prepared for new opportunities and ensures your resume is always current.

17. Include a cover letter

A cover letter  is an essential accompaniment to your resume. It allows you to introduce yourself, explain your interest in the position, and elaborate on key aspects of your resume. A well-written cover letter can distinguish you from other candidates.

For more on what your cover letter should consist of, click here .

Content is imperative on a resume because it underlines your qualifications, skills, and experiences, directly influencing a hiring manager's decision. High-quality content effectively communicates your achievements and capabilities, demonstrating your suitability for the role. It helps you stand out in a competitive job market by highlighting what sets you apart from other candidates.

Moreover, well-crafted content tailored to the job can help your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), ensuring it reaches the recruiter. Clear, relevant, and impactful content is the hallmark of a strong, positive impression.

1. Write a compelling introductory

There are three options to choose from when it comes to your introduction.

Resume summary

This is a brief statement at the beginning of your resume that underlines your key qualifications and career goals. This section should succinctly convey who you are as a professional and what you bring to the table, helping potential employers quickly see your value. A well-crafted summary can set the tone for the rest of your resume and make a strong first impression.

• Resume summary formula

A strong resume summary should be concise and tailored to highlight your most relevant qualifications. Here’s a formula you can follow:

[Job Title/Professional Identity] with  [Number] years of experience in  [Industry/Field] .   Proven track record in  [Key Skill/Responsibility] ,  [Key Skill/Responsibility] , and  [Key Skill/Responsibility] . Adept at  [Specific Task or Tool] . Seeking to leverage expertise in  [Relevant Area] to  [Achieve a Specific Goal or Contribute to Company] .

Here’s an example of the formula in use:

Objective statement

This is another similar variant, designed primarily for entry-level candidates or career changers with little to no experience. It highlights your biggest strengths, relevant experiences, and how you plan to add value to the specific job or company you're applying for. In just three sentences, the objective statement demonstrates to prospective employers how your skills and work history will contribute to their business.

• Objective statement formula

To create a compelling resume objective statement, use the following formula:

[Adjective + Job Title]  + [Years of Experience]  + [Key Skills/Qualifications]  + [What You Want to Achieve/Contribute]  + [How It Aligns with the Company's Goals/Values]

We illustrate below:

Resume profile

This type provides a brief snapshot of your professional identity, emphasizing your skills, experiences, and career objectives. This short paragraph combines elements of a summary and an objective statement, offering a holistic view of who you are as a professional, what you’ve accomplished, and what you aim to achieve.

Breakdown of the example

• Professional identity:  "Dedicated project manager with over 8 years of experience in the IT industry"
• Skills and experiences:  "Specializing in software development and team leadership. Successfully led cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget. Skilled in Agile methodologies, risk management, and stakeholder communication."
• Career objectives:  "Committed to continuous improvement and passionate about leveraging technology to drive business success. Seeking to apply my expertise and leadership skills to a dynamic team at ABC Corporation to enhance project outcomes and foster innovation."

All of these professional statements should come first on your resume, just under the header and headline.

2. Highlight key achievements and honors

Instead of merely listing job duties, focus on your accomplishments in each role. This approach demonstrates the impact you've made and your ability to deliver results. As we’ve already mentioned above, quantifying your achievements with numbers, percentages, or other metrics can make them more compelling and concrete.

If you have received an award for outstanding performance, you might write:

3. Showcase your skills

Include a dedicated resume skills section  to shine a light on the hard skills  relevant to the job you're applying for. Soft skills , on the other hand, should be embedded within different areas of your resume, such as your work experience, education, and summary.

Hard skills, also known as core competencies , encompass a wide array of technical abilities  and knowledge specific to your profession. In contrast, soft skills are interpersonal and behavioral abilities that influence how you work and interact with others.

4. Provide contact information

This is related to your resume header, please refer back to the example above if needed. Ensure your contact information  is up-to-date and prominently displayed. Include your name, phone number , email address, and LinkedIn profile. Including your physical address on your resume  is optional but can provide context about your location.

One thing to avoid, however, is having your photo on your resume . This may incur unconscious bias and it’s rarely expected.

5. Include relevant links

Providing links on your resume  to your professional website, work portfolio , or LinkedIn profile allows employers to see more of your work and accomplishments. Ensure all links are up-to-date and relevant to your professional image.

6. Resume adjectives

Using the right adjectives on a resume is important as it can effectively convey your strengths and qualities to potential employers. Well-chosen adjectives can make your skills and experiences stand out, giving a clear impression of your professional identity and work ethic.

Tips for using adjectives include being specific and relevant to the job you're applying for. Avoid overused or vague adjectives, and instead, opt for those that accurately describe your abilities and achievements. Balance the use of adjectives to maintain professionalism and avoid exaggeration. This enhances your resume's impact and readability.

Read our post on resume adjectives  for more information and an extensive list of examples.

7. Use action verbs

Starting bullet points with strong action verbs  makes your resume more dynamic and engaging. Words like “developed,” “managed,” and “implemented” effectively describe your contributions and responsibilities.

Managed  a team of 10 sales representatives, increasing overall sales by 25% within one year.

8. Showcase career progression

Showing your career progression by displaying promotions and increased responsibilities demonstrates your growth and capability to take on more challenging roles. This helps employers see your potential for long-term value.

Promoted from Junior Sales Associate to Senior Sales Manager within two years, managing a team of 10 sales associates and increasing regional sales by 30%.

9. Highlight relevant education

List your educational background in a dedicated education section on your resume , including degrees, institutions, and graduation dates. Also, include any professional certifications and training relevant to the job although separate sections are also acceptable.

• • Minor in Graphic Design.
• • Relevant Courses: Digital Marketing Analytics, Social Media Strategy, Content Marketing.
• • Certification in Digital Marketing,

10. Include volunteer work

Volunteer work  can demonstrate additional skills and dedication. It's especially valuable if it’s relevant to the job you’re applying for or helps fill employment gaps.

Many candidates place this after their work experience or under a separate section if it's extensive and relevant.

• • Organize food drives and manage a team of volunteers. Increased donation levels by 20%

11. Mention professional development

Listing workshops, courses, and professional development activities— training skills , in general, shows your commitment to continuous learning and improvement. This can be particularly valuable in fast-evolving industries.

• Completed Advanced SEO Strategies Course, HubSpot Academy, 2021.
• Attended annual Digital Marketing Conference, 2019-2023.

12. Add additional sections if relevant

Additional sections can make your resume unique and provide more context about your skills and interests. Include sections like hobbies and interests, professional affiliations, awards, languages, projects, and publications if they add value to your application.

These additions should be placed after the main sections, like work experience, education, and skills.

Here are a few examples:

• Language section

This section shows your communication skills and cultural adaptability, which are valuable in today's globalized workforce. Multilingual abilities can differentiate you from others by making you more attractive for roles that require interaction with diverse clients or colleagues.

It also indicates your capacity for learning and flexibility. Employers often seek candidates who can bridge language barriers and contribute to international business operations, enhancing team dynamics and expanding market reach.

• Hobbies and interests

Including this element on your resume can provide a more well-rounded view of your personality and help you stand out from other candidates. They can underline soft skills like teamwork, creativity, and time management, which are valuable in a professional setting.

Additionally, hobbies can act as conversation starters in interviews, helping to build rapport with potential employers. If relevant to the job, they can also demonstrate a genuine passion or additional expertise that complements your professional qualifications.

• Resume awards

Awards demonstrate your achievements and recognize your excellence in your field. They illustrate your competence, dedication, and the value you bring to your work.

These distinctions also add credibility to your skills and experience, reinforcing your qualifications for the position.

• Professional affiliations

They demonstrate your commitment to your field and show that you stay updated with industry trends and best practices. Associations also highlight your professional network and can indicate your involvement in ongoing education and development.

This can be particularly impressive to employers, as it suggests you are proactive in maintaining your expertise and are connected with other professionals in your industry.

• • Participated in PMI Global Congress and local chapter events.
• • Engaged in continuous learning through PMI webinars and courses.
• • Active member of the Scrum Alliance community.
• • Attended annual Global Scrum Gatherings and local meetups.
• • Contributed to ACM Special Interest Groups (SIGs) on software engineering.
• • Published articles in the ACM Digital Library.
• Publications on resumes

Publications demonstrate your expertise, thought leadership, and contributions to your field. They provide context for your research skills, ability to communicate complex ideas, and commitment to staying updated with industry developments.

Including publications is particularly beneficial in academia, research, and technical fields, as it shows your active engagement with current knowledge and practices. Ensure the publications listed are pertinent to the role, as this can strengthen your application by showcasing your qualifications and professional accomplishments.

• Resume projects

Including projects demonstrates your practical experience and ability to apply your skills in real-world situations. Projects showcase your problem-solving abilities, creativity, and achievements, making your resume shine to employers.

They provide concrete examples of your work, which can be especially valuable if you lack extensive professional experience. Adding relevant projects also shows your initiative and dedication, whether they are from work, school, or personal endeavors.

Overall, projects add depth to your resume, illustrating your competencies and contributions effectively.

• • Implemented secure user authentication and payment processing.
• • Increased site traffic by 30% through optimized SEO strategies.
• • Collaborated with a team of designers and developers to ensure seamless user experience.

13. Include relevant licenses and certificates

Licenses and certifications on your resume  can be crucial in certain industries, as they demonstrate that you have the necessary qualifications and have met industry standards. Including these on your resume can set you apart from other candidates, especially if the job requires specific credentials.

Make sure to list any relevant licensures and certificates prominently and include the date of issuance.

Certification example:

Licensure example:

Tailoring and customization on a resume  are crucial because they show employers you have the specific skills and experiences they seek. By aligning your resume with the job description, you demonstrate that you’ve researched the company and understand their needs.

This increases your chances of standing out among applicants and getting selected for an interview. It also highlights your attention to detail and dedication, qualities valued by employers.

Tailor your resume for the job you want, not just the job you have.

1. Tailor your resume

Customizing your resume for each job application is essential to stand out in the competitive job market. This means you should carefully read the job description and identify the key skills and experiences that the employer is looking for. Then, adjust your resume to emphasize those qualifications. This not only shows that you have the required skills but also that you’re genuinely interested in the specific position.

Tailoring your resume involves reordering your skills, experiences, and achievements to align with the job requirements. For example, if a job posting for a marketing manager emphasizes digital marketing and data analysis, make sure to highlight your expertise in those areas prominently in your resume.

2. Make multiple versions

Creating multiple versions of your resume allows you to be prepared for various job opportunities without starting from scratch each time. This is particularly useful if you’re applying for different types of roles or industries.

Keep a master resume that includes all your experiences, skills, and accomplishments. From this master resume, you can create targeted versions that focus on specific aspects of your career that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. This approach saves time and ensures that your resume is always tailored to the specific job.

If you are applying for both project management and business analyst roles, you might have two versions of your resume. The project management version would emphasize your experience in leading projects, while the business analyst version would focus on your analytical skills and experience with data analysis.

3. Use relevant keywords

To increase your chances of getting noticed, identify the key words and phrases  in the job description and naturally incorporate them into your resume. This shows the hiring manager that you understand the job's requirements and are able to fulfill them.

4. Curate your bullet points and experiences

Limiting bullet points to the most relevant achievements ensures that your resume remains concise and focused. Each bullet point should demonstrate a significant accomplishment or responsibility that is directly related to the job you’re applying for.

Avoid cluttering your resume with less relevant information that might dilute the impact of your most impressive achievements. Instead, focus on specific, quantifiable accomplishments  that highlight your skills and experience.

5. Show transferable skills and experiences

Highlighting transferable skills on your resume  is especially important if you are changing careers or applying for a role that differs from your previous positions. Transferable skills are abilities that you have developed in one context but can apply to another, such as leadership, communication, or project management.

By showcasing these skills, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed in a new role even if you don’t have direct experience in that field.

If you are moving from a teaching role to a corporate training position, you might highlight your skills in public speaking, curriculum development, and mentoring.

For example, you could write:

Designed and delivered engaging educational programs, resulting in a 30% improvement in student test scores.

6. List recent and relevant work experience

Focusing on your recent and relevant work experience on your resume  helps demonstrate your current skills and qualifications. If you’re asking yourself how far back you should go , typically, employers are most interested in your work history from the past 10-15 years. Older roles can be summarized or omitted if they are not directly relevant to the job you are applying for.

This approach keeps your resume concise and ensures that the most pertinent information is highlighted.

Keep your work history relevant

Instead of detailing a job you held 20 years ago, you might summarize it briefly if it is still relevant. " Previous roles include various marketing positions, contributing to a solid foundation in brand management and customer engagement”.

Using AI to assist with writing your resume can be highly beneficial. Here are some pointers to make the most out of AI tools:

1. Leverage AI resume builders

• Ease of use:   Enhancv’s free AI-powered resume builder  simplifies the creation process, guiding you through each section with prompts and suggestions.
• Customization:  Use these tools to tailor your resume to specific job descriptions by inputting keywords and skills relevant to the job.

2. Optimize keywords

• ATS optimization:  Run your current resume through Enhancv’s free AI resume checker  to identify and incorporate keywords from job descriptions, increasing your chances of passing ATS scans.
• Relevance:  Ensure that the keywords align with your actual skills and experiences to maintain authenticity.

3. Enhance formatting

• Consistency:  AI can suggest and implement consistent formatting, making your resume visually appealing and easy to read.
• Modern layouts:  Utilize AI recommendations for modern and effective resume layouts that attract recruiters' attention.

4. Draft multiple versions

• Role-specific resumes:  Create multiple versions of your resume tailored to different job roles or industries using AI suggestions.
• Experimentation:  Use AI to experiment with different wording and structures to see which versions resonate best with job postings.

Integrate AI into your resume writing process. It’ll enhance the quality, relevance, and effectiveness of your resume, increasing your chances of landing the job you desire.

1. Keep a resume outline

Maintaining a resume outline  is an essential organizational strategy that helps streamline the resume writing process. A resume outline is a comprehensive list of all your qualifications, including work experience, education, skills, certifications, and achievements.

By keeping this information readily available, you can easily tailor your resume to specific job applications without starting from scratch each time. This approach not only saves time but also ensures consistency and completeness in the information presented.

2. Avoid personal information

In short, do not put your  age , marital status, or social security number as they can lead to potential bias or identity theft. Employers are primarily interested in your professional qualifications and skills, not personal details that do not impact your ability to perform the job.

Excluding this information keeps your resume focused and professional, aligning with modern resume writing standards.

3. Avoid unnecessary phrases

Phrases like “References available upon request” are outdated and take up valuable space on your resume. Employers assume you will provide references if requested, so there is no need to state this explicitly. Instead, use this space to highlight additional skills or accomplishments that can make your resume stand out.

4. Explain career gaps

Being upfront about gaps in your employment history is crucial. Employers appreciate honesty and transparency. Use your cover letter or resume summary to briefly explain any significant gaps and focus on what you did during that time that contributes to your professional development.

If you took a year off to care for a family member, you could write, “ Took a career break from June 2020 to June 2021 to provide full-time care for a family member. During this time, I developed strong time management and organizational skills. ”

This explanation is straightforward and emphasizes the positive skills gained during the gap.

• Resume Guides

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