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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Sample Job Descriptions to...

Sample Job Descriptions to Help You Enhance Your Resume

5 min read · Updated on December 10, 2021

It doesn't matter what you do for a living; when you decide to look for work, you instantly become a marketer.

As a job seeker, you are required to advertise your qualifications and professional reputation — in other words, your personal brand — to employers and recruiters in your desired field online, in person, and on paper.

One of the most important documents you'll need to update or create for this process is your professional resume. A great resume is written with a specific job goal in mind. It should be tailored for each job application by showcasing your most valuable and relevant skills in a way that positions you as an ideal candidate for the job you want.

Why use job descriptions when creating your resume

In order to ensure that your professional resume is supporting your career goals, gather a few sample job descriptions that describe the type of position you're interested in and qualified for. Then, compare the skills and qualifications on your resume with the desired qualifications in the sample job descriptions.

By reviewing job description examples, you'll be able to identify what technical and soft skills, credentials, and work experience matter most to an employer in your target field.

This will aid your job search in many ways. First, it will help you determine if you're missing any important skills that recruiters are looking for . Once you have this information, then you can take steps to build up those skill sets with courses, certification programs, side projects, or internships to become a more attractive job candidate.

Second, these sample job descriptions will help you decide which of your current qualifications should be highlighted throughout your professional resume and cover letter.

And finally, you can use example job descriptions to find the right words to describe the roles and responsibilities you held in each job listed in your work history.

How to get started using job descriptions for your resume

To help you get started, take a look at the sample job descriptions below. For additional example job descriptions, search for listings on your favorite online job boards, and check out the following links from Workable.com .

Search for two types of sample job descriptions:

Job posts that are similar to roles you've previously held; and

Listings that represent the type of position you're currently targeting.

In both of these instances, don't worry about the job's location. For the purpose of this exercise, instead only focus on the job description and its requirements.

Use the sample job descriptions that match titles in your work history to beef up your professional resume's Employment History section. Click on the following link to learn how to use these job listings to brag about your experience .

Once you've found three to five sample listings that describe your job goals, copy and paste the text of each job description into a Word document and bold any phrases that routinely pop up. Then, highlight each term that describes a qualification you possess. Use this information to edit your resume and cover letter so that your key accomplishments and skills match those desired by your target employer. Your end result should be a professional resume that mirrors the employer's requirements.

Sample Job Descriptions:

Account Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for account manager

Accountant Sample Job Description

View the job description for accountant

Administrative Assistant Sample Job Description

View the job description for administrative assistant

Business Analyst Sample Job Description

View the job description for business analyst

Cashier Sample Job Description

View the job description for cashier

Customer Service Representative Sample Job Description

View the job description for customer service representative

Host/Hostess Sample Job Description

View the job description for host/hostess

Machine Operator Sample Job Description

View the job description for machine operator

Medical Assistant Sample Job Description

View the job description for medical assistant

Office Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for office manager

Operations Manager Sample Job Description

Project manager sample job description.

View the job description for project manager

Receptionist Sample Job Description

View the job description for receptionist

Research Assistant Sample Job Description

View the job description for research assistant

Retail Sales Associate Sample Job Description

View the job description for retail sales associate

Sales Director Sample Job Description

View the job description for sales director

Sales Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for sales manager

Security Officer Sample Job Description

View the job description for security officer

Senior Account Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior account manager

Senior Accounting Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior accounting manager

Senior Business Analyst Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior business analyst

Senior Project Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior project manager

Senior Sales Associate Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior sales associate

Senior Software Developer Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior software developer

Senior Software Engineer Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior software engineer

Server Sample Job Description

View the job description for server

Software Developer Sample Job Description

View the job description for software developer

Software Engineer Sample Job Description

View the job description for software engineer

Store Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for store manager

Waiter/Waitress Sample Job Description

View the job description for waiter/waitress

Click on the following link for more job-search advice .

Still need help with your resume? Take advantage of our free resume review today!

Recommended Reading:

The Essential Parts of a Resume Explained

Free Download: Resume Worksheet by TopResume

How to Tailor Your Resume for a Specific Application

Related Articles:

How to Maximize Your Resume Action Words to Wow the Employer

Resume Spelling and Accent Explained

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

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• Career Planning
• Finding a Job

How to Write Resume Job Descriptions (With Examples)

How to Write Resume Job Descriptions

Focus on skills and achievements, include keywords, be selective about what you include.

• Prioritize Job Descriptions

Quantify Your Achievements

• Emphasize Accomplishments

Make Your Jobs Sound Better

When you think about job descriptions, it's likely that job ads posted by employers first spring to mind. But the most important job descriptions may be the ones you create yourself when you’re describing past positions on your resume.

These job descriptions show prospective employers what you have accomplished in the positions you've held. They also provide a synopsis of your experience and skills.

Well-written descriptions for each job you have held will help get your resume noticed and selected for interviews.

Here’s advice on writing job descriptions for your resume, what to include, how to quantify and prioritize your accomplishments, and examples.

What's the best way to write attention-grabbing job descriptions? Before you start adding job descriptions to your resume, you may want to make a list of accomplishments at each of your jobs. This will prepare you for writing your resume.

After you have written a job description, look for ways to make your explanation more concise:

• Craft effective impact statements.
• Highlight skills and achievements, providing only enough detail to support your premises.
• Edit out pronouns and articles.
• Begin phrases or sentences with verbs.
• Choose strong words— resume action words  like “initiated” and “supervised” are powerful and show that you’ve made an impact on your team.
• Having short descriptions that focus on the most powerful aspects of your role will help recruiters and hiring managers quickly take in and assess your experience. 

If you are submitting resumes to organizations that add them into  applicant tracking systems  (ATS), include as many industry and job-specific " keywords " as possible. When searching databases for potential candidates, employers seek resumes with the greatest number of "hits" on keywords.

Keywords are most often nouns, e.g., “customer service” or “computer skills.” To use keywords most effectively, be specific, use as many as possible, and sprinkle them throughout your resume. 

Your resume isn’t your entire  work history , and you don’t need to include every duty for each role. Determine the most relevant information by putting yourself in your potential employer's position: Will this information help convince the employer that you are a worthwhile candidate to interview?

You do not have to include every responsibility you ever had. Group together similar tasks. For instance, rather than listing "Answered phones" and "Responded to customer emails" in two bullet points, you can combine and say, "Resolved customer issues through phone, email, and chat conversations."

Prioritize Your Qualifications

Next, think about prioritizing the information you provide in each description. Present details that are of the greatest interest to potential employers first. 

Highlight your most relevant qualifications for the job by listing them first in the job description.

For example, consider a candidate seeking a job in interior design. The resume might reflect a retail experience in which 75% of the candidate's time was spent on the sales floor, and 25% was spent designing window and floor displays. Since the design of window and floor displays is most meaningful to an interior design employer, this should be listed before sales. 

Job Description Example

Sales Associate , Retail USA, New York, NY October 2021 - Present

• Designed all large windows using color as the primary focus.
• Created engaging point-of-purchase displays for slow-moving small items; increased sales of these items by 30%.
• Organized floor displays to maximize space and call attention to the latest merchandise.
• Utilized strong interpersonal and communications skills to serve customers; received employee of the month award twice.

Quantify as much information as you can (numbers, dollar signs, and percentages can all help to make your case). 

For instance, a bullet point that reads "Grew traffic 35% year-over-year" is more impressive—and informative—than one that reads simply "Improved traffic."

Employers like numbers. It's much easier to look at signs and symbols than it is to read words.

Nearly any description, for any job, can be  enhanced through the use of numbers . A waitress might start out with the description, "Took customer orders and delivered food." But a quantified description saying, "Served customers in an upscale 100-seat restaurant," provides much more insight.

Waitress, Maxill's Restaurant,  New York, NY January 2022 - Present

• Provided dining service for patrons at an upscale 100-seat fine dining establishment.
• Served meals, cleared tables, monitored five tables, and provided exceptional customer service to up to 30 customers.
• Trained new waitstaff on POS system, guest services, and restaurant policies and procedures.

Emphasize Accomplishments Over Responsibilities

It's important for employees to know you have the necessary experience to do the work required in the position. Still, many candidates will have this relevant experience.

To stand out, emphasize how you added value. Focus on accomplishments, rather than responsibilities.

As seen above, numbers can be your friend when it comes to  highlighting your accomplishments in your resume . As well, numbers provide context. For instance, you might say, "Increased revenue by 5%, after several years of decreasing sales."

Or, rather than saying, "Answered phone calls and dealt with customer concerns," you can say, "Resolved customer concerns, answering approximately 10 calls per hour. Became go-to person on the team for dealing with the toughest phone calls and most challenging complaints."

Employers want to know what you accomplished. Make it easy for them to see what you've done by using numbers and percentages.

While it is important to keep descriptions short, adding details and context can help show employers why you'd be a good match for the position. 

Customer Service Associate,  ABD Company March 2020 - August 2021

• Resolved customer concerns efficiently and expeditiously, answering approximately 300 calls per week.
• Achieved 100% of call performance goals for accuracy, speed, volume, resolution of issues, and customer satisfaction.
• Nominated for employee-of-the-month four times for excellent attitude and exemplary customer service skills.

There are easy ways to jazz up your resume job descriptions to  make your jobs sound super impressive . A few simple tweaks here and there can make your resume much better.

Key Takeaways

• Spend some time writing the job descriptions on your resume, since potential employers will read them carefully. 
• Focus on relevant skills and accomplishments—be choosy about the information you include, and place the most relevant information at the top of the job description. 
• Rather than simply listing out tasks, focus on what you've accomplished in each role, incorporating attention-grabbing numbers and percentages. 

Resume Job Description: Samples & Tips To Help You Enhance Your Application

In This Guide:

What is a resume job description, responsibilities vs accomplishments: how to enhance your resume job description, how to write your resume job description with achievements if you’re a newly grad, how do i tailor a resume to a job description effectively, looking for a resume job description example.

Getting your resume done is one of the most unnerving parts of the job application process.

Do I have enough experience? Which positions should I list? Can I mention my volunteer work history? Should I or should I not include a photo on my resume ?

These are just some of the questions that ran through my mind when I was preparing my resume.

I spent days researching the best resume practices out there, trying to craft the perfect document that was sure to land me the job.

I wanted my resume to stand out. To make an impact on the hiring managers. I wanted it to work.

And you know what? I made it work.

Surprisingly, all I did was tweak one part that hadn’t crossed my mind before – the job description .

So, stick around and let me tell you the story of how one section can make or break your application.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• What a resume job description is and why it’s important;
• How to make sure you write a job description that blows all the other candidates out of the water;
• How to tailor your job description to the specific position you’re applying for.

BUILD MY RESUME NOW

Now, let’s start with the question on everyone’s minds.

To put it short, a job description section on your resume shows the prospective employers your past work experience (paid, internship, and volunteer), as well as your key skills and accomplishments demonstrated at a specific job.

It’s one of the most important resume sections .

It shows a hiring manager what you’ve achieved, what you’ve learned, and how that can be applied to the position they’re offering.

What a well-written resume job description does is highlight the fact that your skills and accomplishments are not only relevant to the job at hand – they’re exactly what the company needs.

When writing about your work history, don’t just list your duties at a past job – that’s boring and, to be honest, recruiters don’t really care.

What’s important to them is that you have the necessary experience, skills, and drive to manage and excel at the task you’ll need to handle.

Hopefully, you now know what a job description section is.

So, to make sure you write one that gets your resume noticed, I’m going to give you some hot tips, coming straight from the experts.

Let’s get right to it!

Focus on your skills and achievements

As I said, recruiters don’t really care about all the daily duties and responsibilities you’ve had before, even if your past job is relevant to the one you’re applying for.

I guarantee, every other applicant that’s held a similar position will have had similar duties. Your job title itself lets the recruiter know what they are.

It doesn’t matter what you did, but how you succeeded at it.

So, what you need to do is highlight your accomplishments and skills while you outline your duties. This shows the hiring manager that you can bring value to the company.

You don’t need to go into too much detail – a simple statement, such as “Created a custom client dashboard that reduced support tickets by 50%” is enough to show what you’ve brought to the table.

However, you can’t just throw any old achievement in there. You need to curate your content. So…

Vet your experience and select the most relevant information

You don’t have to list your entire work history when you write your resume job description, just as you don’t have to list every single responsibility.

What helps is to pinpoint which part of your experience will be the most important to the recruiter and focus on that.

Prioritize the information you include in your job descriptions. You may have achieved tons of things at your past job – but which one is the most relevant? Find out and put it first.

Try and put yourself in the employer’s shoes.

Will a recruiter looking for a web developer be impressed by how you increased Walmart’s Pepper Jack sales by 30% in a week?

Probably not, unless it’s his favorite cheese.

So, research the company, the position, and what is most important to them, and then match it to your skills and accomplishments.

Let the numbers speak for you

Take any achievement of yours. Can the information be represented by symbols and numbers? If yes, then do just that.

People find reading concrete symbols and signs easier than reading words.

Let’s go back to our cheese example from before. Which of the following statements is more impressive:

“Increased cheese sales” or “Increased Pepper Jack sales by 30% in 1 week by leading a successful marketing campaign”?

Even something as ordinary as cheese can sound fancy when you throw in raw data like that.

Be very specific when talking about your achievements and quantify as much as possible.

Make attention-grabbing section headers

Your work experience section is perhaps the most important part of that document. So, make it stand out .

You don’t have to name the section anything specific – Work Experience, Work History, Experience, Employment History – all of these are fine.

Just make sure it’s clearly visible. Go for all-caps, or bold, or add an accent, contrasting color.

The Enhancv resume builder lets you give all your sections custom names, so you can let your personality shine through and better reflect your expertise.

Put your work experience in a visible spot

I’ll say it again – your work experience is one of the most important sections of your resume.

Most recruiters will say that the resume job description is their main source of information on whether the potential employee will do well at a certain job.

So, it makes sense to put it somewhere where it can’t be missed.

Add this section right after your resume summary and before any others, such as Education , Languages , and Skills .

List your resume job descriptions in a reverse-chronological order

This is a very popular and quite useful tactic, and it’s perfect for most resumes, with minimal exceptions.

Start with your current or last job . Move on to the position before that, then the one before that , you get it.

By doing this, you guarantee that the hiring manager sees the best of you and your abilities.

Use between 3 to 5 bullet points for each job

The easiest way for a recruiter to scan through your work experience section is if you use bullet points to list your achievements, skills, and duties.

For each position, use from 3 to 5 bullets. The more recent the job is, the more bullet points you can use. The farther back you go, the fewer you need, and you can only list the most relevant information.

You don’t need a bullet for every single achievement and skill, either. You may have succeeded in a lot of different areas, but not all of them will be important in all cases.

Customize your resume and tailor the information to the job description.

Start each bullet point with an action verb

Eliminate any unnecessary words wherever possible. Hiring managers don’t need all the fluff, and no one wants to read through a 3-page essay about your previous work experience.

Keep it short and sweet.

Start each bullet with an action verb to make it clearer and more powerful.

Another helpful tip is to begin with the successful result of your actions, followed by the action itself.

“Increased Pepper Jack sales by 30% in 1 week by leading a successful marketing campaign”, remember?

Recruiters are more likely to remember the result than the process.

Include the benefit your actions and results had on the company goals

As I mentioned before, you need to decide on what will be most important to the company.

Not only do they want to know that you can succeed at the job, but they also want to know what you can bring to the table, what value you can add.

Give the hiring manager context, too. Show them how your skills can be used in practice.

I understand that it’s easier to write a resume when you have experience. It can be difficult for those straight out of college to figure out what kind of experience they can include.

I’ve been in that position, too.

Just because you don’t have any actual paid work experience doesn’t mean you’ll have to leave that section blank, though.

If you’ve only just graduated and you don’t have that much relevant experience, you can place the education section first, focus on your academic achievements, and put the resume job description after.

In the actual work experience section, you can highlight any other relevant experiences, for example – unpaid internships, volunteer work , student organizations, etc, up to 4 or 5 positions.

For your resume to really succeed, it’s important that you tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for.

You shouldn’t send the same resume with every application, just as you wouldn’t send the same cover letter.

But how do you tailor a resume to a job description ?

Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds!

One of the first things you should do is read the job description that came with the job offer. Read it once, then read it twice, then read it three times.

What you’re trying to do here is identify what’s most important to the company and what they’re looking for in an employee for this particular position. They want to know what you can bring to the table.

Match the content of your resume to the job description. If you’re applying for an engineering job , don’t talk about your time as a cheese salesman, unless parts of what you learned and achieved are really relevant.

A helpful trick is to pay attention to the keywords. Go over the job description and the position requirements and highlight any key ones.

Think of stuff like “detail-oriented”, “resourceful”, and “communication skills”.

Then make a list of all your skills and achievements.

Match those skills to the keywords. The more matches you make, the better your chances of writing a resume that lands you that coveted interview.

Sprinkle those words around your resume, and especially in your work experience section. This will help you pass the automatic sorting system, as well as catch the eye of the recruiter that scans resumes for keywords.

So, follow all the tips from above and you’ll be well on your way to crafting a stellar resume that gets you hired!

I know this can all seem daunting.

So, to help you out, I’ll give you some of our best examples of a great resume job description. And if you want more full resume examples to guide you, I’ve got you covered.

Take a look at this accounting analyst resume.

Now take a look at the following bullet:

“Participated in implementing automated accounting processes that reduced errors of accounting items by 55%”.

It has everything – it starts with an action verb, it quantifies the achievement – overall, I’d say it’s not half bad, wouldn’t you?

Now, let’s switch it up and examine this baker’s resume:

Let’s start with the placement – this resume doesn’t put that much emphasis on the work experience section.

Personally, I’d give some more thought to whether my experience or my education is more important in this case. However, work experience definitely beats the way I spend my time, so surely it should come before it.

Let’s look at the resume job description. Which one of the following do you think is more impressive:

“Ensured all prepared items are appropriately labeled, covered, and rotated” or “Resolved conflicts between kitchen staff which increased the efficiency of the kitchen by 50%”?

Probably the second one, right? So, they probably should have put it first on the list.

Overall, there’s room for improvement here.

And last, but not least, let’s shift the focus to this teacher’s resume:

Here, they’ve got the placement right – experience is important for a teacher, after all.

The bullets following their most recent position highlight their skills and achievements, and they’ve kept in mind what would be important for this job.

I probably would have started with “Contributed to raising retention rate from 75% – 89%”, but other than that – a fine example.

So, there you have it – you now know what a resume job description is, why you need one, and how to write one that skyrockets your chances of success.

To summarise, here are the most important things to keep in mind:

• A job description section on your resume shows the prospective employers your past work experience, as well as your skills and accomplishments.
• When writing a work experience section, focus on your skills and achievements, rather than your duties and responsibilities.
• Keep the information relevant to the position at hand.
• Quantify your achievements – employers like numbers.
• Make your job description section visible, make sure it stands out.
• Use bullet points and start each with an action verb.
• Tailor your resume to the company’s needs and requirements, but keep it truthful.

I hope this post was useful to you. Do you have any other questions? Do you have any experience you want to share? You can do so in the comments!

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How to Write Resume Job Description [+ Examples]

• April 18, 2024
• In Resumes & Cover Letters

A well-written resume job description goes far beyond a dull list of jobs and duties. In fact, a strong presentation of your knowledge and achievements can increase your chances of landing the job. Primarily, your resume job description should offer insight into your value as an employee. With these 7 tips, you will learn how to write compelling job descriptions that grab the recruiter’s attention and open doors to new career opportunities.

Why is a job description important to an employer

A resume job description is incredibly important for several reasons:

• Establishing Credibility : A well-written job description in your resume establishes your credibility with prospective employers. It showcases what you bring to the table and why you are the perfect match for the job.
• Demonstrating Readiness for the Role : A strong job description shows recruiters and prospective employers that you can immediately start contributing without much hand-holding or training. It conveys that you have the necessary skills and experience to hit the ground running.
• Optimizing for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) : Tailoring your resume job description to the specific job you are applying for is crucial. Many companies use ATS to scan and rank resumes based on keywords and skills. By optimizing your job description with specific skills and keywords, you increase your chances of getting noticed by the system and advancing in the hiring process.
• Standing Out from Other Candidates : A well-crafted job description that aligns with the requirements of the position can help you stand out from other candidates. By highlighting your achievements and showcasing how your skills match the job description, you can make a strong impression on hiring managers.

In summary, a resume job description is essential for establishing credibility, showcasing your abilities, demonstrating readiness for the role, optimizing for ATS, and standing out from other candidates. By tailoring your job description to the specific job you are applying for and highlighting your achievements, you increase your chances of securing an interview and landing the job.

How to write an effective resume job description

Writing effective job descriptions in your resume is crucial for showcasing your skills, experiences, and accomplishments to potential employers. Here are some tips on how to write a resume job description:

Step 1: Include relevant information

Start the job description section at the top half of the first page of your resume. Include the job title, company name, location, dates of employment, and a brief overview of your responsibilities and achievements.

Step 2: Highlight accomplishments

 Instead of simply listing your job duties, focus on your measurable accomplishments and the impact you made in each role. Use specific examples and quantify your achievements whenever possible. This helps employers understand the value you can bring to their organization.

Step 3: Use concise language

 Craft impactful statements by using strong action verbs and removing unnecessary pronouns and articles. Begin phrases or sentences with verbs to make your descriptions more engaging and dynamic. Choose words that demonstrate your skills and show that you have made a positive impact in your previous roles.

Step 4: Tailor descriptions to the job

 Customize your job descriptions to align with the requirements and responsibilities of the position you are applying for. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that directly relate to the job you are seeking.

Step 5: Follow a reverse chronological order

Start with your most recent or current job and work backward in time. This format is commonly used and helps employers easily understand your career progression.

Step 6: Always use bullet points

Use bullet points to showcase the responsibilities and achievements for each previous job. Bullet points should be concise and to the point. They do not require long sentences or punctuation.

Including relevant keywords in resume job descriptions

Including relevant keywords in resume job descriptions is crucial for catching the attention of hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) that scan resumes.

• Review the job posting : Carefully analyze the job posting or job description of the position you are applying for. Identify keywords and phrases that are frequently mentioned and align with the requirements of the role.
• Identify core skills and qualifications : Identify the core skills, qualifications, and experience necessary for the job. These could include technical skills, industry-specific knowledge, certifications, or soft skills. Incorporate these keywords naturally into your job descriptions.
• Quantify achievements : Whenever possible, quantify your achievements and provide specific results or metrics. This not only makes your resume more impactful but also helps incorporate keywords. 
• Avoid keyword stuffing : While it’s important to include keywords, avoid overloading your resume with them. Use keywords naturally and in context, ensuring that your descriptions flow smoothly and remain focused on your accomplishments and responsibilities.

By including the right keywords, you increase the chances of your resume standing out and passing through ATS screenings.

Resume job description examples

Resume job descriptions are an essential part of your resume, as they provide specific details about your previous jobs and experiences. Including accurate and well-written job descriptions can help highlight your skills, achievements, and qualifications to potential employers. Here are some examples of resume job descriptions:

#1. Customer Service Job Description Example

Customer Service Associate, Timmy’s Retail, Columbus, Ohio January 2011 – March 2016

• Emphasized customer satisfaction by resolving circa 170 customer queries every week.
• Spearheaded weekly strategy meetings and suggested a new ticketing system that decreased response time by 23%.
• Named employee of the month 24 times for proactive attitude and high customer satisfaction.

#2. Executive Assistant Job Description Sample

Executive Assistant, BrightWay Inc., Boston, Massachusetts September 2017 – November 2020

• Developed and implemented a new filing system that increased productivity and saved up to 1 hour’s work daily.
• Realized $2800 in monthly savings by reducing unneeded expenses and finding better deals for office supplies.

#3. Front Office Job Description Sample

Front Office Receptionist, Lilly & Co, New York , New York May 2018 – November 2023

• Implemented a new appointment scheduling system, resulting in a 23% increase in efficiency and a cost savings of $7,500 per year.
• Providing support with various administrative tasks, which may include organizing files, entering data, and preparing documents.
• Providing general information to visitors and clients.
• Assisting with event planning and coordination.

#4. Project Manager Job Description Sample

Project Manager, Nordisk, Columbus, Ohio Jun 2019 – November 2023

• Designed an accelerated program roadmap, saving 25% on expenditures and delivering completed implementation three months ahead of schedule
• Directed a $2M corporate headquarters relocation project, delivering target outcomes on time and under budget
• Coordinating internal resources and third-party vendors to ensure the seamless completion of projects.

#5. Sales Manager  Job Description Sample

Sales Manager, Blue Hill Holdings, New York, New York July 2015 – December 2020

• Trained and onboarded 13 sales agents, 11 of whom are still a part of the company
• Increased annual sales revenue by 18% through the usage of a new sales system
• Utilized strong negotiation and communication skills to sign new clients, exceeding monthly sales goals by 34%

#6.  Supervisor Job Description Sample

Supervisor, Honeywell Gropup, New York , New York September 2017 – November 2023

• Led a team that successfully completed a project three weeks ahead of schedule, resulting in cost savings of $87,000.
• Successfully completed specialized projects, such as implementing a new customer service system that resulted in a 27% increase in customer satisfaction ratings.
• Coach, resolve issues, and provide guidance and support for individual development needs.

#7. Teacher Job Description Example

Teacher, Manhattan Upper School September 2017 – November 2020

• Developed and implemented lesson plans based on curriculum guidelines.
• Delivered engaging and interactive lessons to students.
• Assessed student performance and provided feedback and grades.
• Communicated with parents/guardians regarding student progress and behavior.

A strong resume job description aims to demonstrate the value and expertise that make you the perfect fit for the job. By following the tips above, you will create an impactful job description that will impress the recruiter and help you stand out.

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20 Examples: How to Write Resume Job Descriptions

By Status.net Editorial Team on November 9, 2023 — 7 minutes to read

Crafting Compelling Resume Job Descriptions

Action verbs and power statements.

When describing your work experience, kick things off with strong action verbs. Choosing the right verb can create an impactful first impression. Look for energy-packed words like “pioneered”, “spearheaded”, “orchestrated”, and “streamlined” to describe your accomplishments.

For example, instead of saying, “Responsible for sales growth,” say, “Spearheaded sales growth by 20% in one year”. This demonstrates your go-getter attitude and leadership skills.

Quantified Achievements

Highlight your accomplishments with specific numbers and data. Employers appreciate concrete results and gravitate towards resumes that show how you made a difference.

If you managed to reduce costs, mention the percentage of savings. For instance, “Streamlined processes, leading to a 15% reduction in overhead expenses”. If you increased revenue, quantify it like this, “Implemented innovative strategies, boosting annual revenue by 25%”.

Adding numbers and percentages to your resume job descriptions gives employers a clear picture of your performance and capabilities.

Tailoring to Job Specifications

Customize your resume to the specific job description you’re applying for. Highlight your relevant experience and skills to catch the recruiter’s eye.

• Start by aligning your qualifications with the job requirements. If the role calls for strong team leadership, emphasize your experience managing teams. For example, “Led a team of 10 sales professionals, achieving 120% of quarterly sales target”.
• Similarly, if the job demands expertise in project management, focus on your achievements in that domain, such as, “Delivered three high-priority projects within budget and ahead of schedule”.

Tailoring your resume to the job specifications helps demonstrate that you’re the ideal candidate, making it easier for recruiters to spot your value.

Key Elements for Describing Work Experience

Relevance to job application.

When describing your work experience on your resume, it’s important to focus on the aspects that are most relevant to the job application. This will make your resume stronger and help you stand out to potential employers. Think about the skills required for the job and emphasize those in your job descriptions. For example, if you’re applying for a sales position, highlight your achievements in sales, customer service, and relationship building.

Work Achievements and Responsibilities

Showcase your accomplishments and responsibilities in each job description. Use bullet points to list your achievements and quantify them whenever possible. For instance, instead of writing “Responsible for sales growth,” you can say, “Increased sales by 15% in one year through effective customer outreach strategies.” This gives employers a clearer idea of your abilities and the impact you made in your previous roles.

Job Title and Employer’s Name

Don’t forget to include your job title and employer’s name in each job description. This information helps hiring managers understand the level of responsibility you had in your previous roles. Even if the job title isn’t well-known, it can still provide context about your experience. For example:

• Sales Associate, ABC Electronics
• Project Coordinator, XYZ Software

Duration of Employment

It’s essential to mention the duration of your employment for each job on your resume. Include the start and end dates in a standard format (e.g., MM/YYYY or Month Year). This helps potential employers understand your work history and assess your job stability. Also, if you have gaps in your employment history, be prepared to explain them during an interview. Here’s an example of how to represent your duration of employment:

• Sales Associate, ABC Electronics (June 2018 – Present)

Sample Phrases for Resume Job Descriptions

The sample phrases provided can help inspire you to create compelling and results-oriented descriptions for your resume. When crafting your bullet points, focus on quantifying your achievements and impact using metrics, percentages, and dollars where possible. Highlight how you exceeded expectations, strengthened key relationships, saved money or resources, increased efficiencies, and took initiative to solve problems. The goal is to demonstrate your expertise, accomplishments, and value to potential employers in a clear, concise manner using the most relevant and impactful examples from your career experience.

• – Leveraged extensive knowledge of marketing strategies and analytics to spearhead innovative multi-channel campaigns, growing brand awareness by 32%.
• – Recognized for exceptional relationship management skills; consistently exceeded new business development targets by proactively identifying and qualifying leads.
• – Excelled at resolving complex client issues, employing active listening and problem-solving abilities to deliver personalized solutions that strengthened long-term partnerships.
• – Successfully guided globally distributed teams and high-budget initiatives to completion ahead of ambitious deadlines.
• – Praised for outstanding attention to detail and commitment to quality assurance.
• – Proven record of taking initiative to streamline workflows, resulting in a 28% increase in throughput while maintaining the highest service levels.
• – Known for versatility in tackling diverse responsibilities simultaneously; thrive in fast-paced environments demanding flexibility and adaptability.
• – Expertise spans full lifecycle of product development from concept ideation to commercial launch; hands-on contributions critical to multiple patent filings.
• – Proven track record of achieving results through direct reports, partners, and virtual teams globally; adapt leadership style to diverse cultures.
• – Managed a portfolio of client accounts valued at over $5 million, providing best-in-class solutions and achieving a 90% retention rate.
• – Developed comprehensive marketing strategies to launch three new product lines, generating over $2 billion in cumulative revenue.
• – Oversaw all aspects of product development from concept through commercialization, bringing cutting-edge innovations to market ahead of schedule and under budget.
• – Led a virtual team of 15 professionals to implement a major systems integration project, streamlining operations and processes across multiple departments.
• – Consistently exceeded sales targets by an average of 125% through effective lead generation, needs analysis, and solution presentations.
• – Reduced customer support tickets by 45% through implementation of new training programs and service protocols.
• – Authored standard operating procedures manual adopted enterprise-wide, establishing best practices for quality, compliance, and efficiency.
• – Analyzed financial reports and key metrics to recommend data-driven process improvements, reducing costs by over 20%.
• – Planned and executed conferences, trade shows, and events with hundreds of attendees, generating new leads and strengthening industry partnerships.
• – Recognized as a technical expert, supporting a wide variety of products and fielding complex troubleshooting requests from customers.

The key is to focus on concrete achievements, responsibilities, and skills. Quantify results when possible and use powerful action verbs to demonstrate your impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid generic and vague phrases when describing your work experience. For example, instead of saying “Responsible for managing a team,” try using specific details like, “Managed a team of 10 to achieve a 15% increase in sales over a year.” This shows your actual accomplishments and their impact.
• Don’t exaggerate your achievements or inflate your job title. Stay honest and accurate in your descriptions to maintain your integrity with potential employers. If you need to quantify your achievements, use numbers and percentages to show your contributions.
• Beware of using too much jargon or technical terms that might confuse the reader. While it’s important to demonstrate your expertise, keep your language clear and straightforward. This can make it easier for the hiring manager to understand your qualifications and achievements.
• Avoid being overly modest when listing your accomplishments. Make sure to highlight your contributions and the positive outcomes they resulted in. Focusing on results shows how you have helped previous employers and demonstrates your value to potential new ones.
• Limit the number of bullet points per job to the most relevant accomplishments. Too many bullet points can be overwhelming and dilute the impact of your most impressive achievements. Aim for about 3-7 bullet points, prioritizing those that align with the requirements and expectations of the job you’re applying for.
• Always proofread your resume carefully and check for grammatical errors, typos, and inconsistencies in formatting. A polished, error-free resume displays professionalism and attention to detail – qualities that employers seek in potential candidates.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are some examples of effectively describing work experience in a resume.

To describe your work experience effectively, use action verbs and quantify achievements when possible. For example:

• Managed a team of 5 salespeople, increasing annual revenue by 20%.
• Designed and implemented a new marketing strategy, resulting in 30% more leads.

2. How can I highlight my skills and responsibilities in my resume?

To highlight your skills and responsibilities, use bullet points under each job title. Focus on your accomplishments and how they impacted the company. For example:

• Streamlined the invoicing process, reducing errors by 15%.
• Developed new customer service protocols, increasing satisfaction scores by 20%.

3. What are some tips for writing resume job descriptions when I don’t have much experience?

If you don’t have much experience, focus on transferable skills and relevant accomplishments. You can also include volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs. For example:

• Assisted with event planning for a charity fundraiser, raising $10,000.
• Completed a marketing internship, contributing to a 10% increase in social media engagement.

4. Can you provide a few examples of well-written resume responsibilities and achievements?

Here are a few examples of well-written resume responsibilities and achievements:

• Oversaw budget and financial planning for a $1 million project, completing it within budget and on-time.
• Implemented a new training program for new hires, reducing onboarding time by 25%.

5. How can I tailor my resume to match a specific job description?

To tailor your resume, carefully read the job description and identify the skills and responsibilities the employer is seeking. Then, adjust your resume by emphasizing those skills and showcasing your accomplishments that are directly related to the requirements. For example:

• If the job description mentions project management skills, highlight your experience managing projects and their outcomes.
• If the employer is looking for a candidate with specific software knowledge, mention your proficiency with those tools and provide examples of how you have used them in past projects.
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How to Write an Impressive Resume Job Description That Gets Noticed (+12 Examples!)

3 key takeaways

• What a resume job description is (and best practices for writing yours)
• How to write your job descriptions with Teal's free AI Resume Builder
• 12 examples of standout resume job descriptions for inspiration

Your resume is your professional narrative. And like any compelling story, each chapter provides depth, giving readers (or in this case, potential employers) insight into your career.

Central to this story is your "Resume Job Description" section. But this section isn't just about listing your responsibilities; it's where your value comes to life.

Your resume job descriptions are a link between your experiences and the requirements of each unique role you apply to. And crafting them effectively becomes the key to framing your experiences in a way that resonates, making the reader eager continue on to the next chapter—and getting you that much closer to landing to an interview.

What is a resume job description?

A resume job description is the work experience on a resume . And it plays a vital role in providing a comprehensive overview of your previous positions, specifically tailored to the job you're applying for.

For every relevant role you've held, think of your job descriptions as concise summaries that highlight:

• Where you worked
• The title you held
• Key accomplishments
• Relevant qualifications
• Your impact
• Skills learned

The best part? By including a detailed job description for your previous jobs, you can effectively communicate the value you bring to the table. It allows you to emphasize the specific impact you've had and how it aligns with the requirements of the job you're pursuing.

Why is a resume job description important?

A resume job description is your specific employment history, and knowing how to write a good one is important because it: 

Showcases relevant experience

Your resume should only showcase the top 10% of your experience that's 100% relevant to the role you're applying for. By  tailoring your resume  job descriptions to each role and incorporating only applicable experience you demonstrate how your qualifications align with the requirements of a specific job.

Provides detailed insight

An overview of your relevant jobs helps a recruiter or hiring manager get a sense of the scope and impact of your previous positions—giving them a look at key skills, capabilities, and potential contributions.

Proves impact

Highlighting  resume accomplishments  with metrics and numbers (like exceeding sales targets by a particular percentage or leading a successful project that increases revenue by a specific dollar amount), provides tangible evidence of your capabilities and impact.

Demonstrates good communication skills

By clearly, concisely, and compellingly presenting your past roles and responsibilities, you demonstrate the ability to articulate information effectively (a valuable transferable skill in most professionals).

Write your job description for a resume with Teal

Your resume job descriptions are important, but writing every achievement doesn't need to be complicated.

Use the Achievement Assistant within the free Teal AI Resume Builder, to quickly craft metric-driven job descriptions for every relevant position you've held.

Interested in building out your job description achievements? Sign up for Teal for free today.

How to write your resume description and achievements

If you're struggling with writing job descriptions and achievements (also known as your work experience) that showcase metrics and impact, the free Achievement Assistant within the Teal AI Resume Builder makes this process easy.  

1. Start by signing up for Teal.

2. Navigate to the Resume Builder in the left panel. 

3. From here, you can click the "New Resume" button at the top right to start a new resume or select the resume you want to add achievements for.

4. Scroll down to the Work Experience section. (This is also known as your Resume Job Description section.) Then click "Add Work Experience."

5. Now add the job you want to create achievements for. Every past job you list (as well as your current position) should be consistent. In this step, input your:

• Company name
• Company location
• End date (if applicable)

6. Next, click "Add an Achievement." 

7. Finally, you have two options. You can navigate to the Assistant tab at the top right to work through what you did, what metric you improved in what time frame, and how your action connects to your strategy. (Or just click the "Generate with AI button if you're stuck!)

Best practices for writing your resume job description

Now that you understand what a resume job description is and why it's such an important part of your professional story, let's dive into some best practices for creating resume job descriptions that accurately represent your experience with clarity and impact.

1. Limit included years of relevant experience

How far back should your resume really go ?

Unless you're applying for a role as a C-suite level executive, it's best practice to limit your years of relevant experience to the past 10-15 years. 

Limiting the number of jobs or years allows you to focus on your most recent and relevant professional experiences, which will likely be the most valuable for potential employers. 

It also helps keep your resume concise and manageable. Remember, unless you're changing careers, recruiters and hiring managers are primarily interested in your recent accomplishments and skills directly related to the position you're applying for. 

2. Include the same basic information for each company 

Including the same basic information for each company in every resume job description maintains consistency throughout your resume. This basic information should include:

• Your position or official job title
• Company location (or remote if applicable)
• Dates of your employment
• 3-5 job description achievements per job title

By presenting information in a uniform resume format , you create a professional and organized appearance, making it easier for hiring managers and recruiters to review and assess your work history. 

Consistency also helps establish a clear career progression and narrative—enabling potential employers to compare your experiences across different organizations easily.

How long have you stayed with different companies? Has your career advanced? Where have you taken opportunities? When presented consistently, these patterns are easier to observe. 

3. Include relevant achievements 

Each of your job descriptions should have around three to five relevant achievements. And they should be formatted with resume bullet points —approximately three to five bullet points for each job description. 

List these achievements based on the most impressive and relevant information, and rather than just listing job duties or job responsibilities and structure your bullet points to focus on specific accomplishments and results.

4. Show metrics and impact 

Adding metrics to the achievements in your Resume Job Description section can help you stand out from other job seekers. They're measurable evidence of accomplishments and impact in previous roles, showcasing your incredible work.

When deciding which metrics to include, consider areas like:

• Revenue increased
• Money saved 
• Process Improvements and the measurable impact 
• Number of employees managed and the retention rate 
• Process refinement and subsequent time saved 

5. Use action verbs 

The best action verbs for resume and work history make your experience more dynamic and engaging because they create a sense of, well, action. 

Instead of using passive verbs, like "responsible for" or "assisted with," try words like achieved, exceeded, generated, improved, or optimized, and connect those verbs to measurable achievements. 

6. Be honest

Being honest about your work experience is crucial. Honesty builds trust. And when you accurately represent your skills, responsibilities, and accomplishments, you establish credibility (and integrity). 

Being honest also ensures a good fit between your qualifications and the requirements found in the job ad. By accurately portraying your previous positions, you offer potential employers a real look at your capabilities. 

Tailoring your resume job descriptions

Your resume should align with the specific job posting of the role you're applying for. This means including relevant skills (hard skills and soft skills) and other important language in the key achievements of your "Work Experience" section.

So how do you find that information?

The Teal AI Resume Builder and Job Application tracker pull the top keywords (as skills and emphasis words) so you can incorporate exactly what hiring managers are looking for into your resume. (And you can do this all in one centralized platform.)

12 resume job description examples

Below are some job description examples that highlight a diverse range of roles and responsibilities across various levels of experience.

These samples offer valuable insights and inspiration for crafting clear and compelling job descriptions—no matter where you are in your career.

Creating resume job descriptions with no work experience

Writing a resume with no experience might seem daunting. But don't get overwhelmed just yet. You don't necessarily need a job title to impress prospective employers.

Think about your life experience up to this point.

Were you involved in student organizations? Did you do any volunteer work? How about unpaid internships, certifications, or projects?

These experiences are fundamental. And the many skills you picked up along the way are transferable—helping get your resume noticed by a hiring manager or recruiter.

So let's take a look at some examples of resume job descriptions with no work experience.

Resume job description examples with no work experience

Project-focused.

Senior Graphic Design Project

• Received a 98% grade by increasing Miami Senior High School Annual Charity Walkathon attendance by 30%. Collaborated with a team of four and designed marketing materials such as posters, flyers, and social media graphics using Adobe Creative Suite to promote the event and encourage attendance.
• Received 100% positive feedback from school administration and attendees.

Volunteer work-focused

Volunteer, Local Humane Society

March 2021 - Present

• Assisted in caring for animals by feeding, grooming, and exercising daily, ensuring their well-being and promoting a positive environment.
• Supported the humane society's adoption events by organizing and maintaining a welcoming and clean adoption area, increasing the chances of successful adoptions.
• Collaborated with fellow volunteers to create engaging content for the organization's social media platforms, promoting animal adoption and raising awareness among the local community.

Internship-focused

Marketing Intern, Katie Rose Boutique

May 2022 - August 2022

• Conducted market research and competitor analysis, providing valuable insights that informed the development of targeted marketing strategies and contributed to a 10% increase in customer engagement.
• Assisted in creating compelling social media content and managing social media accounts, resulting in a 20% growth in follower count and improved brand visibility within the local community.
• Collaborated with the marketing team to optimize website content and implement SEO techniques, leading to a 15% increase in organic website traffic and improved search engine rankings.

Resume job description examples for entry-level roles

Junior business analyst.

05/2021 – 11/2021

InnovateX Solutions

• Analyzed customer needs and developed business requirements documents, resulting in a 10% increase in customer satisfaction and improved alignment with customer expectations.
• Developed process models and workflow diagrams to support business requirements, resulting in a 20% increase in process efficiency and improved overall productivity.
• Developed and maintained project plans and timelines, resulting in a 15% increase in project completion rate and improved project management.

Entry Level Graphic Designer

6/2020 – 6/2022

CreativeCrafters

• Art directed projects and pre-press operations, streamlining file production by 25%
• Developed storyboards and animation graphics for a variety of digital products with compelling visuals
• Created user interfaces, user experiences, and wireframes to ensure products effectively met customer needs

Junior Brand Marketer 

11/2021 – 08/2022 

StrategyWorks Group

• Collaborated with stakeholders to develop and execute comprehensive branding campaigns, resulting in a 14% increase in customer engagement
• Led the implementation of a customer feedback survey process, resulting in a 25% increase in response rate and providing valuable insights that informed brand strategies and led to a 9% improvement in customer satisfaction.
• Developed and presented a series of innovative brand messaging strategies, contributing to a 15% increase in market share.

Resume job description examples for mid-level roles

Human resources coordinator.

6/2022 – Present

• Spearheaded the onboarding process of new hires, reducing onboarding time by 25%
• Assisted in developing a performance management and career development program
• Designed a cohesive employee recognition and reward system for staff retention contributing to a 26% increase in retention.

Full Stack Developer

02/2017 – 03/2019

TechNova Solutions

• Developed and maintained a web application using React and Node.js, supporting a 50% increase in user traffic and a 15% increase in revenue over a one-year period.
• Optimized a web application for performance and scalability, resulting in a 40% reduction in page load time and a 20% increase in application speed.
• Collaborated with a cross-functional team to troubleshoot and debug a web application, resulting in a 90% reduction in application downtime and improved user satisfaction.

03/2022 – Present

Grammar Digital Publishing Co.

• Developed and implemented a new editorial style guide, resulting in a 25% reduction in editing time and an increase in content quality.
• Collaborated with authors to revise and improve content, resulting in a 15% increase in publication rates.
• Managed publication schedules and coordinated with other departments to ensure timely publication, resulting in a 10% increase in content delivery

Resume job description examples for senior-level roles

Senior customer success manager.

3/2022 – Present

• Spearheaded the development of over 700 customer success plans, resulting in an increase of customer onboarding success rate by 23%.
• Designed and developed a customer feedback survey program that generated an aggregate of 5,500+ responses over two months, driving customer satisfaction scores to an all-time high of 93%.
• Created tailored customer success webinars resulting in an 11% increase in product utilization by existing customers.

Senior Front-end Developer

07/2021 – Present

FrontEndGenius

• Spearheaded the successful refactoring of the client-side web architecture to introduce a reliable SPA (Single Page Applications)
• Significantly improved the organization's page speed and scalability through creative combinations of HTML, JavaScript, and AJAX
• Mentored junior developers while implementing cross-browser compatibility at the code level, resulting in a 50% increase in user satisfaction

Senior Growth Marketing Manager

3/2021 – Present

RocketBoost Marketing

• Developed and implemented a successful digital marketing strategy that boosted website traffic, led to a 30% increase in conversion rate, and achieved an average increase of 40% in revenue from organic channels.
• Created and maintained an automated metrics dashboard to track the performance of all marketing campaigns to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Optimized existing campaigns with A/B and multivariate testing, leading to a 25% increase in engagement and a 12% decrease in CPA

Ready to write resume job descriptions?

Your resume job descriptions are an important part of your professional story. And now that you know how to craft the most effective job descriptions that connect each chapter and grab the attention of hiring managers and recruiters, don't stop here.

Sign up for Teal today and seamlessly incorporate your experiences into your resume—one job description at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i tailor my resume job description to a specific role or industry, what is the best way to quantify achievements in my resume job descriptions, how long should each job description be on my resume.

Kayte Grady

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How To Write Compelling Resume Job Descriptions (with Examples)

It’s no secret that a compelling, attention-getting resume can be the difference between landing your dream job and crash landing into a sea of comparably dull resumes.

A great resume gives you a significant competitive edge in the job market . Conversely, a bad resume can bring your job search to a stall .

It is true that your job descriptions are just one part of writing the perfect resume . But it is also true that well-constructed, engaging, compelling resume job descriptions are the backbone of a modern resume that stands out from the pack.

How To Structure Your Resume Professional Experience Section

With the exception of entry-level job candidates , most job seekers will have a work history comprised of at least a couple of past employers and sometimes multiple jobs within each employer.

While choosing the right resume format will be an individual process for every job seeker, this format will include an employment history section for most job seekers. In this section, you will list each past job and other relevant professional experiences (such as volunteer work ) in reverse chronological order.

At a minimum, each job description in this section will include the company’s name, your job title, and the dates you held the job title. Most job seekers will also include the basic details of the job, such as the job responsibilities and other relevant information, such as technical skills or other key skills .

But, to write a really compelling resume job description, the key is to go beyond the typical recitation of job responsibilities.

The Insider Secret to Writing a Compelling Job Description

It is all about storytelling .

Hiring managers don’t care about what you were supposed to do (which is what responsibilities and job duties tell them).

They care about what you did–as in what you accomplished . And more to the point, how your accomplishments benefited your past employers.

When you use a storytelling format to write resume job descriptions, you captivate hiring managers with relevant, memorable content that helps the hiring manager to make connections between your past work history and your future potential.

Here then, are some tips for writing compelling resume job descriptions. Start with the basics and consider the ABC’s of resume writing that will have hiring managers’ heads turning.

A: Allow Verbs (Not Adjectives) to Tell Your Story

Fill each resume job description with verbs. Adjectives can make the text more engaging but should be used sparingly (read: extreme moderation!). Instead, use concrete examples of accomplishments headed by verbs to describe your work history.

Too many descriptive adjectives can obscure and make your job description seem filled with fluff. Verbs, on the other hand, imply action and accomplishments.

Compelling verbs showcase what you have done and highlight ways you’ve turned challenges into successes without the story getting lost in a pile of pretty prose.

You can see how to do this in the following resume job description example. Note the extensive use of verbs (highlighted) in this job description.

Formatting your resume job description with a few bullet points will also make it easier to read. Try breaking out accomplishments with bullet points. Ideally, between three to five bullet points per job description though a couple more or less is acceptable. Typically, you should include fewer bullet points the further back you go in the chronology of your past jobs .

By definition, an accomplishment is something that has already happened. In other words, it happened in the past. This means that each bullet point should begin with a past tense verb. Powerful, active verbs deliver your message with a punch.

Finally, use a thesaurus and diversify your verbs. Repeating the same words can lower effectiveness, making your resume seem flat and redundant rather than persuasive. The following resume job description examples illustrate all of these suggestions in practice.

B: Bland is Boring – And That’s Bad

Your goal is to stand out from the crowd . If your resume job description text is more boring than bold, that’s bad – and probably not going to open any doors.

Think about it this way. Advertisers spend millions of dollars annually creating commercials that grab consumers’ attention.

They want to get as much use out of every dollar as possible. That’s why they create jingles. Jingles stick in your head, and ads often include loud voices and bright colors that are hard to ignore.

Similarly, your resume is an advertisement letting companies know that you are their best option – a credible candidate who knows how to deliver value and garner results in challenging situations .

You want the hiring manager to walk away from your resume humming the tune that says, “this is the candidate I’ve been looking for.” Your resume job description is your jingle, as shown in the following job description example.

There are three parts to telling a compelling story in the job description section of your resume:

• The challenge or situation: What was the situation in the company when you worked there? What were the significant challenges or problems you dealt with? What were your primary goals?
• The actions you took: What did you do to meet those challenges, solve those problems, or achieve those goals ?
• The results: What were the positive results of your actions concerning the challenges or problems? How did your employer benefit?

Reread the sample job descriptions shown throughout this post. Can you identify the three parts? This is called the C.A.R. approach to writing a resume , and it is one of the trade secrets of professional resume writers . Done well, this is a fail-proof way of getting your resume noticed.

C: Connect the Content

Hiring managers typically put real thought into every job posting. When you read a job ad, you will often find a detailed listing of qualifications sought by the hiring manager. As a job seeker, when you submit your job application , it only makes sense that your resume should include some of the same wording used in the job posting.

There are two reasons for filling your resume job description text with the words and phrases that potential employers use in job ads.

The first reason is that these words usually describe key skills–both hard skills and soft skills– that are important resume keywords . Including the most important resume keywords are essential for ensuring your resume performs well in applicant tracking systems (ATS) .

The following job description example shows a pro technique for fitting extra keywords into your resume job description section.

In the following resume job description example, the job posting made it clear that the employer was seeking a strong team leader and coach with the ability to improve the performance of a sales team . The story told in the job seeker’s resume showed how past relevant experiences prove that this job seeker is the perfect hire to meet the employer’s needs.

The second reason for using these keywords is that they help show connections between your relevant experience (shown in your C.A.R. scenarios ) and the company’s needs.

For example, if the job posting calls for “agility and resilience,” each resume job description should highlight the instances in your employment history demonstrating those characteristics. Make the connection between your compelling content and the position you want to fill.

D: Do Your Homework

Beyond carefully reading each job posting, you should do your homework and learn as much as you can about your next potential employers . Knowing more about the company to which you plan to submit a job application will help you give even more dimension to your resume.

Review the company website and the company profile on Linkedin .

Research the history, founders, upper management, and the path between the early days of business to the present.

Get to know the company philosophy and what drives its success.

Learn the company’s target markets and identify its main competitors.

Read company news releases to learn about newsworthy events.

Familiarizing yourself with these details will help shape your job descriptions. In addition, this will aid you in making even more connections between your relevant professional experiences and the prospective employers’ needs.

E: Edit (Twice)

It cannot be stressed enough: a compelling resume job description won’t help you if a potential employer discovers an error. Spelling and punctuation errors will put your resume in the “do not call” pile faster than it can make it to the printer.

Some of the most common (and essential) mistakes to look for include :

Spelling : relying on spellcheck is dangerous. Read and reread what you’ve written, in particular noting proper names that a spell check may completely miss.

Punctuation : some things don’t belong on a resume for any reason – like an exclamation mark. Be sure your hyphens, periods, and quotations are appropriately placed.

Grammar : compelling resume writing knows proper grammar and uses it wisely.

Formatting : even a minor resume format change can influence the overall look of your resume. Double-check that the appearance is consistent and highly professional from top to bottom.

Final Resume Job Description Considerations

To get the interview , creating a compelling, modern resume is a necessity for all job seekers.

Improving each job description in the professional experience section of your resume is an essential step in creating resumes that get attention and win interviews . To create compelling job descriptions that show your personality and professionalism remember to use verbs, connect the content, do your homework, and edit until you’re sure it’s perfect.

But if you feel at all overwhelmed , we are here for you! You do not have to struggle to create a perfect resume . Instead, let us write it for you! Book a free resume writing consultation today to learn more about our professional resume services . It is an investment in your career that will pay off many times over!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a resume compelling and stand out from the pack.

A compelling resume is one that tells a story about your accomplishments, not just your duties. It goes beyond listing basic job details, and it uses strong verbs to showcase actions and achievements. It also makes connections between your past experiences and the job you’re seeking.

What is the recommended structure for the professional experience section in a resume?

The professional experience section should be presented in reverse chronological order. It should include the company’s name, your job title, and the dates you held the position. Additionally, it should detail the job responsibilities and relevant skills you acquired during your tenure.

How can I make my job descriptions compelling?

The secret to compelling job descriptions is to turn them into stories of your accomplishments. Rather than just listing duties, focus on the challenges you faced, the actions you took, and the results you achieved. Using strong verbs instead of adjectives can help make your stories more impactful.

What is the C.A.R. approach in resume writing?

C.A.R. stands for Challenge, Action, and Result. It’s a technique for writing job descriptions on a resume. It involves outlining the challenge or situation you faced at work, the actions you took to tackle those challenges, and the results of your actions. This approach helps to tell a compelling story of your professional accomplishments.

How can I match my resume to the job posting?

You can make your resume match the job posting by including relevant keywords from the job ad in your resume. This can be important for passing through applicant tracking systems and for demonstrating to the hiring manager that your skills and experiences align with what they’re looking for in a candidate.

Why is researching about a potential employer important?

Researching about a potential employer helps you tailor your resume more effectively. It allows you to understand the company’s history, philosophy, target market, and competitors. This understanding can then be used to make more specific connections between your experiences and the employer’s needs.

Why is editing important in resume writing?

Editing is crucial to ensure your resume is free from spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. A single mistake can give the impression of carelessness and might prevent you from getting an interview. In addition, consistent formatting contributes to a professional appearance.

What if I'm overwhelmed by the resume writing process?

If you’re overwhelmed, you can seek professional help. There are services available that specialize in resume writing and can help present your experiences in a compelling and professional manner. These services can be an investment in your career and help you land the job you desire.

About the Author: Michelle Dumas

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Resume Job Description for Work Experience: 20 Best Samples

As a job seeker, crafting a compelling and comprehensive resume is critical to landing your dream job. A clear job description is an essential element of a resume as it provides recruiters with an understanding of the skills, experiences, and accomplishments you possess. A well-written job description can make or break a resume, so it is essential to know how to write one that accurately captures your qualifications.

The goal of this article is to provide you with the best job descriptions for work experience that you can use to enhance your own resume. We’ve conducted extensive research and analysis to compile a comprehensive list of the 20 best job descriptions that showcase various industries and professions. By using these examples as a guide, you can create a compelling job description that highlights your skills and experience, making your resume stand out from the crowd.

This article is organized into four main sections as follows:

Importance of a Clear Job Description: In this section, we’ll take a closer look at why a clear job description is so critical to the success of your resume, and we’ll discuss the common mistakes job seekers make with their job descriptions.

How to Write a Great Job Description: In this section, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating a job description that accurately reflects your skills and experience. We’ll cover the essential elements of a job description, and we’ll also provide tips for making your job description more engaging and compelling.

20 Best Job Descriptions for Work Experience: This section contains the heart of the article. We’ve compiled twenty of the best job descriptions we could find from various industries and professions. Each job description includes a summary of qualifications and key responsibilities, as well as tips on how to tailor the job description to your specific needs.

Conclusion: In our conclusion, we’ll summarize the key takeaways from this article and provide additional resources to help you continue improving your resume.

This article is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their resume with a strong job description. With the examples and tips provided, you’ll be well on your way to creating a compelling description of your skills and experience that will capture the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.

What is a job description?

A job description is an official document that outlines the responsibilities, duties, qualifications, and requirements of a particular job role.

A. Definition of job description

Job description is an essential piece of document that provides comprehensive and accurate information about a job position. It outlines the key responsibilities, duties, and requirements that candidates need to possess in order to be considered for the job.

B. Purpose of job description

The purpose of a job description is to define what the job entails and what qualities an ideal candidate should have. It serves as a guide for both employers and job seekers on what to expect from the role and what skills and attributes are necessary to perform the job successfully.

C. Importance of job description for employers and job seekers

For employers, a well-written job description is essential to attract the right candidates for the position. It not only helps them to identify and screen the right candidates, but it also assists in setting realistic expectations for the role. Additionally, a job description can serve as a legal document in case of any disputes.

For job seekers, a job description can provide a clear understanding of what the job entails, the qualifications required, and the skills needed to excel in the role. It can also help them to determine whether they are a good fit for the position, and whether the job aligns with their career goals.

A job description is a crucial document that can benefit both employers and job seekers by providing accurate information about the job position. It serves as a guide that helps employers to attract and select qualified candidates while enabling job seekers to determine whether a position is suitable for them or not.

Types of Job Descriptions

Job descriptions play a crucial role in the hiring process, as they serve as the primary source of information for candidates. They provide applicants with an accurate portrayal of the job and outline the expectations associated with the position. There are three main types of job descriptions: generic, tailored, and inclusive.

A. Generic Job Descriptions

Generic job descriptions are a one-size-fits-all approach. They are often used when companies hire for multiple positions with similar tasks and requirements. These job descriptions typically provide a basic outline of the role and tend to be less detailed, which can make it challenging for potential candidates to differentiate between similar positions.

However, generic job descriptions can still provide valuable insight into what the company is seeking in candidates and can help applicants determine if they meet the minimum qualifications for the role. They are also ideal for companies that are just starting to create job descriptions or hiring for entry-level positions.

B. Tailored Job Descriptions

Tailored job descriptions are customized to each position, with job duties, requirements, and qualifications that are specific to the role. They provide a more in-depth look at what the job is about and what is expected of the candidate. The customization allows the company to highlight certain skills and experiences that are unique to the position and their organization.

Tailored job descriptions are essential for finding the best-suited candidates for a particular role. They can also help the company minimize the number of unqualified applicants and reduce the time it takes to fill the position. However, it is crucial to ensure that the job description accurately reflects the position to avoid confusion among candidates and potential legal issues.

C. Inclusive Job Descriptions

Inclusive job descriptions not only outline the job requirements and qualifications but also ensure that the language used is inclusive and free of bias. Job descriptions need to exhibit diversity and inclusion while avoiding any language that may hinder qualified candidates from applying.

Inclusive job descriptions should use gender-neutral pronouns, avoid using words that could be perceived as discriminating (e.g., masculine or feminine), and avoid any assumptions about the candidate’s background (e.g., age, marital status, race, religion, or sexual orientation). By doing this, the company can attract a more diversified pool of candidates, which can lead to a more diverse workforce and a more diverse set of ideas.

Job descriptions play a vital role in the hiring process. Whether you opt for a generic, tailored, or inclusive job description depends on your company’s needs and the position being filled. It is essential to carefully consider what the job entails, what is expected of the candidate, and the company’s values and goals when creating any type of job description.

Benefits of using a job description in your resume

Incorporating a job description in your resume can bring several benefits to your job search. Some of these benefits include:

A. Clear understanding of job requirements

When you use a job description in your resume, you get a clear understanding of what the job entails. This is especially important when you’re applying for a job that you’re not very familiar with. By examining the job description, you can understand the skills, education, and experience required for the job, and tailor your application accordingly.

B. Aligning skills and experience with job requirements

Using the job description in your resume helps you align your skills and experience with the job requirements. You can focus on highlighting your skills and experiences that match the job requirements, making your application more relevant and attractive to employers.

C. Highlighting relevant accomplishments

Another benefit of using a job description in your resume is that you can use it to highlight your relevant accomplishments. By examining the job requirements, you can identify the accomplishments that are the most relevant to the job, and then highlight them in your resume. This can include projects you have worked on, results you have achieved, or any other accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and experience.

Using a job description in your resume can help you create a more effective application that stands out to potential employers. By understanding the job requirements, aligning your skills and experience, and highlighting relevant accomplishments, you can increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Key Elements of a Job Description

A job description is a crucial document that outlines the necessary details of a job opening. It serves as a roadmap for recruiters and hiring managers to define the role and responsibilities, qualifications, job location, and other important details of the position. Every job description must include certain key elements to ensure that candidates have a clear understanding of what they’re signing up for.

A. Job Title and Summary

The job title and summary section provides a quick overview of the job’s primary responsibilities, its level within the organization, and whom the position reports. This section should be concise and precise, accurately conveying the job’s purpose and essential functions.

B. Job Duties and Responsibilities

The job duties and responsibilities section outlines the specific tasks expected from the candidate if hired. List the essential functions of the job, the roles it interfaces with, and any supervisory or management responsibilities the job requires.

C. Required Qualifications

The required qualifications section lists the minimum qualifications for applicants to be considered for the position. Describe the education level, experience, and any specific technical or professional certifications required. Providing clear indicators of the expectations around qualifications helps ensure that potential candidates are appropriately qualified.

D. Salary and Benefits

You may choose to include a salary range for this role or simply indicate that it is competitive or like-minded to others within the industry. Likewise, you can refrain from listing every benefit, but at a minimum, mention that the position includes benefits such as healthcare coverage or retirement savings contribution.

E. Company Culture

The company culture section should describe the operating environment and employees’ work experience. Highlight the key pillars of your culture, such as collaboration, innovation, excellence, work-life balance, diversity, and inclusion. Candidates will appreciate knowing what it’s like to work for your organization in general terms, as it can inform how well they may fit into your team.

A well-crafted job description is vital in attracting top candidates for your company or organization. Make sure to include all essential elements of a job description, including the job title and summary, the job duties and responsibilities, required qualifications, salary and benefits, and company culture.

How to Incorporate a Job Description in Your Resume

When writing a resume, it’s important to incorporate the job description to optimize the chances of getting an interview. This involves the use of specific keywords and tailoring the resume to match the required skills and qualifications.

A. Use of Keywords

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter through resumes and identify candidates who meet their requirements. Therefore, it’s crucial to include relevant industry buzzwords and terminology in your resume to ensure that it’s picked up by the system.

To identify the keywords to use, carefully read the job posting and take note of the skills, qualifications and job requirements mentioned. If you possess any of these skills or have related experience, ensure that they’re captured in your resume.

B. Tailoring Job Description to Match Job Requirements

Once you’ve identified the relevant keywords, tailor your resume to reflect the job requirements. This includes changing the work experience section to emphasize the experience that’s most relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Use bullet points and action verbs to highlight key achievements and responsibilities. The description should be concise yet detailed enough to showcase your range of skills and experience.

C. Demonstration of Related Experience and Accomplishments

Your resume should demonstrate your ability to fulfill the job requirements by showcasing your related experience and accomplishments.

Include quantifiable achievements, such as “increased sales by 20%” or “managed department budget of $1 million.” These help illustrate the impact you can have on the company and make you stand out from other applicants.

Emphasize any relevant certifications, awards, or volunteer experience that showcases your ability to learn, grow, and contribute to the organization.

D. Formatting and Presentation

Finally, formatting and presentation are critical when it comes to resumes. The resume should be easy to read, with clear headings and bullet points. Avoid using graphics or images, as they can distract from the content.

Ensure that the resume is consistent in formatting throughout and use white space effectively to make it visually appealing. Proofread the document thoroughly to eliminate any typos or errors.

Incorporating the job description into your resume is critical to showcase your qualifications to potential employers. Use of relevant keywords, tailoring of job descriptions to match the requirements, and demonstrating related experience and accomplishments are all key components to a successful resume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Job Description Writing

When crafting a job description, it is important to avoid certain common mistakes that can hinder your hiring process. Here are five mistakes to steer clear of:

A. Over-generalization

An over-generalized job description might make it difficult for potential candidates to understand the job responsibilities and requirements. Instead, it is important to emphasize specific duties and skills that the position requires.

B. Lack of Clarity

A job description that lacks clarity can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. Make use of clear language, and try to avoid ambiguity. Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs to help prospective candidates easily understand the job requirements.

C. Lack of Specificity

A job description that isn’t specific enough can prevent suitable candidates from applying. Be clear about the qualifications, skills, education, and experience required for the position. Include information about the company culture, work schedule, and environment, and make sure to use precise job titles.

D. Technical Jargon

Technical jargon can sometimes be difficult to understand for candidates who are not familiar with the industry-specific terms. In such cases, it is important to define technical terms and abbreviations or avoid using them altogether. This helps make your job description more accessible to a wider audience.

E. Discriminatory Language

Avoid using prejudiced language in your job description. Use neutral and inclusive language instead. This not only helps attract a diverse pool of candidates, but it is also a good practice that is respectful to all people.

Write concise and clear job descriptions that highlight specific job requirements, avoid overly technical language or discrimination, and use language that is easy to understand. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can attract the right candidates for your open position.

Best Practices for Writing a Job Description

When writing a job description, there are best practices that can help ensure that the document is effective and engaging. Some of the key practices to consider include:

A. Identify Target Audience

The first step in creating a successful job description is to identify the target audience. This means understanding who the ideal candidate is for the role and tailoring the description accordingly. Factors to consider may include the candidate’s level of experience, skills, and education, as well as their personality traits and work style.

B. Use of Action Verbs

A well-written job description should use action verbs to describe the duties and responsibilities of the role. This not only makes the document more engaging but also helps to clarify what is expected of the candidate. Action verbs should be specific and relevant to the role, such as “coordinate,” “collaborate,” or “analyze.”

C. Utilize Metrics

Including metrics in a job description can help the hiring manager understand what success looks like in the role. These metrics may relate to productivity, efficiency, or other key performance indicators. For example, a sales role may include metrics such as “increasing revenue by 20%” or “closing 50 deals per quarter.”

D. Consider Including a Company Summary

Finally, it can be useful to include a brief company summary in the job description. This can give candidates a better understanding of the organization’s culture, mission, and values.

By following these best practices, you can create a job description that attracts top candidates and clearly communicates the requirements of the role.

Examples of well-written job descriptions

When it comes to creating effective job descriptions, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, your job description should be clear and concise. It should outline the most important responsibilities and requirements of the role, and it should be written in a way that is easy to read and understand. To help you get started, here are four examples of well-written job descriptions:

A. Sales Representative

Our company is seeking a highly motivated and experienced sales representative to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, closing deals, and maintaining relationships with existing clients. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of sales success, excellent communication skills, and experience working with a CRM system.

Responsibilities:

• Identify new sales leads and potential customers
• Close deals and meet sales targets
• Maintain relationships with existing clients and identify upsell opportunities
• Provide exceptional customer service and support throughout the sales process
• Collaborate with our marketing team to develop and execute sales campaigns
• Use our CRM system to manage sales activity and track progress

Requirements:

• 3+ years of sales experience
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Proven track record of sales success
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience using a CRM system
• Bachelor’s degree in business or a related field

B. Marketing Manager

Our organization is seeking a driven and experienced marketing manager to lead our marketing team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies that drive revenue growth and promote brand awareness. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of marketing success, excellent leadership skills, and experience managing a team.

• Develop and implement marketing strategies that align with company goals
• Lead and manage the marketing team, providing guidance and support as needed
• Create and execute marketing campaigns across various channels (e.g. digital, print, events)
• Analyze market trends and customer data to inform marketing decisions
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure alignment and consistency across all marketing materials
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of marketing campaigns
• 5+ years of marketing experience
• Strong leadership and management skills
• Proven track record of marketing success
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with digital marketing tools and platforms
• Bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field

C. Financial Analyst

Our finance team is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical financial analyst to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for analyzing financial data and preparing reports that inform strategic business decisions. The ideal candidate will have excellent analytical skills, experience with financial modeling, and a strong understanding of financial statements.

An Expert’s Tips for Utilizing Job Descriptions During the Interview Process

A well-written job description can help job seekers better understand a company’s expectations for the role, and can provide them with valuable guidance as they prepare for the interview.

Here are my tips for utilizing job descriptions during the interview process:

A. Using job descriptions as a reference

Job descriptions should be used as a reference when preparing for a job interview. Make sure you thoroughly read and understand the job description so that you can tailor your answers to the company’s specific needs. This will show that you have considered the job requirements and that you are the right fit for the position.

B. Prepare for common interview questions

Job descriptions can also help you prepare for common interview questions. Look for keywords and phrases in the job description that indicate what the company is looking for in a candidate. Use these clues to anticipate interview questions and prepare strong, specific answers that demonstrate how you meet the job requirements.

C. Ask clarifying questions

During the interview, it is essential to ask clarifying questions. The job description can help you come up with relevant questions that will show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the role and have done your research. Asking clarifying questions can also help you gain a better understanding of the company’s culture, expectations, and goals, which can help you make a more informed decision about whether the position is the right fit for you.

Job descriptions are a valuable resource to have during the job interview process. They can be used as a reference, help you prepare for common interview questions, and assist you in asking relevant clarifying questions. By utilizing these tips, you can make a better impression on the interviewer and increase your chances of landing the job.

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

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

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

How to write a resume

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

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

1 inch margins

10-12 point font

A professional, commonly-used font

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

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

Your full name. First and last.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Each educational experience can be listed in the following format:

Degree/Program Name College/University Name Dates attended

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

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

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

Honors. Dean’s List, Cum Laude, etc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resume samples

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

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

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

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

For more resume examples and templates:

Resume examples by job

Google docs resume template

Resume templates

Resume builder

Resume Headers Samples:

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

For more on how to write a resume header:

Resume Header

Resume Titles

Resume introduction examples

Entry-Level Resume Objective.

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

Career Change Resume Objective.

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

Example Resume Summary Statement.

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

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

Example Qualifications Summary.

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

Example Resume Profile.

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

Entry-Level Resume Headline.

Bilingual College Graduate with 80 WPM Typing Speed and Tutoring Experience

Experienced Resume Headline.

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

For more on resume introductions:

Resume objective statement

Resume summary statement

Resume summary statement examples

Qualifications summary

Sample resume work experience sections

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

For more on building the perfect resume work experience section:

Resume work experience section

First resume (no experience)

Examples Of Education Resume Sections

Graduated recently from a 4-year program.

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

Two degrees.

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

Anticipated graduation date (not yet graduated).

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

Older job seeker (graduated 10+ years ago).

University of Chicago | Chicago, Illinois Bachelor of Business Administration

High school graduate (no college degree).

Johnston High School 2016-2020 Head of Computer Club

More on crafting the perfect resume education section:

Education resume section

GPA on resume

Dean’s list

Magna cum laude

Examples Of Skills For Resume

Examples of hard skills include:

Examples of soft skills include:

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

Resume skills section

Hard skills

Soft skills

Top skills for professionals

Skills-based resume

Resume writing FAQ

What is a resume?

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

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

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

What is the format for writing a good resume?

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

How far back should a resume go?

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

Should you personalize your resume for each job?

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

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

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

Harvard University – Create a Resume/CV or Cover Letter

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

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How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Good Resume (ChatGPT Resume Guide)

Learn how to write a resume that’s tailored to the company’s job description from scratch using ChatGPT, including examples of the best prompts.

You can use ChatGPT to create a resume. First, mention that you’re looking to write a resume for a particular role. Next, tell ChatGPT to ask you everything it needs to know to write a resume based on your professional background. Answer its questions. Mention previous job titles, skills, and qualifications. For accuracy, refine the output so that it reflects your actual work history. Afterward, copy and paste the company’s job description into ChatGPT and ask it to tailor your resume. Lastly, put everything into a resume builder for a professional format.

Knowing how to use ChatGPT to write a resume means entering the right prompts. 

Make it clear that you’re looking to write a resume for a certain role. Then, detail your professional background (and even send the company’s job description) first so that the language model can have some guidance on the type of resume to create. 

This guide walks you through how to use ChatGPT to write a resume from scratch. The first output will likely be far from perfect, but still, it’s a tool that can speed up the entire process. 

On the other hand, ChatGPT could end up being a double-edged sword since it’s all about coming up with your own prompts, refining them, and optimizing the format yourself. So even though ChatGPT can help with brainstorming, you might end up in a loop of analysis paralysis since it’ll still require multiple iterations. 

An AI resume tool like ours, Rezi AI, uses the same technology as ChatGPT except it’s dedicated to generating outputs based on the best resume practices. 

Complete your resume immediately with Rezi AI Resume Builder . Watch your resume write itself—tailor your resume to the job description automatically and get suggestions on the top skills to include. And the design and layout? It will always stay perfect. Just pick one of our 15+ free resume templates .

Why You Should (or Shouldn’t) Use ChatGPT to Write a Resume

Why you should use ChatGPT to write a resume: 

• Efficiency. ChatGPT can draft an entire resume for the role you’re applying for in seconds. 
• Tailoring. You can tailor your resume faster by sending ChatGPT the job description rather than manually reviewing the entire thing yourself. 
• Ideas. Overcome writer’s block by asking ChatGPT the type of responsibilities, duties, and achievements to highlight, as well as how to articulate them. 

Why you shouldn’t use ChatGPT to write a resume: 

• Not 100% accurate. AI may overstate qualifications. Double-check to ensure all information reflects your professional background. 
• Generic outputs. Without proper guidance or prompts, ChatGPT might draft a resume that anyone else in your field could use. 
• No formatting. ChatGPT can help with writing a resume, but not so much when it comes to formatting a resume. 

Use Rezi AI to create your resume and skip this guide

Imagine ChatGPT on steroids for writing a resume—that’s Rezi AI. 

Here’s how to not just write, but create a tailored ATS resume with our AI resume builder: 

• Complete the initial form by entering a few details such as the company’s job description, the field you’re applying for, and your experience level. This guides our AI writer to ensure its output aligns with your professional background.
• Fill out the provided fields for every resume section, like adding your full name in the contact details section.
• When writing bullet points describing a previous role in the work experience section or an additional section, enter the job title. Next, click “Generate Bullet” and our AI Bullet Point Writer will write sentences based on your background and resume best practices.
• For your resume summary, you can use our AI Resume Summary Generator . Enter the job position and skills you want to highlight, then click “AI Writer Ready.” 
• Finish up and preview your resume. Once you’re happy with everything, hit the download button. 

And you’re all done—no need to worry about formatting or what the best prompts are. 

Every one of our resume designs and layouts have been carefully created to meet ATS standards, meaning that they’ll always pass any company’s resume scanner. This is something you can’t be sure of when making a resume on your own on a Word document or when using other run-of-the-mill resume builders that are too heavy on visuals. 

With Rezi, all you have to do is click a button to generate outputs that match your background and follow the best practices. 

You can get started with Rezi for free. 

If you’re still dead set on using ChatGPT, and you’re determined to enter the prompts yourself, keep reading.

How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Resume From Scratch

‍ This is how to use ChatGPT to write a resume: 

• State you’re looking for help to write a resume for a particular job position. Then, tell ChatGPT to ask you the most relevant questions about your career. This way, the tool will be able to draft a resume that’s more personalized to you and your background.
• Answer ChatGPT’s questions as best as you can. If you’re unsure about anything, you can ask for clarification in the same thread. 
• Refine every single section generated by ChatGPT. Get ChatGPT’s assistance with this by using specific prompts such as, “rewrite the bullet points for the [Job Title] entry and emphasize XYZ achievements.”
• Copy and paste the company’s job description into ChatGPT. Next, ask ChatGPT to tailor your resume to the job description . 
• Read through all information to make sure everything accurately reflects your employment background. 
• Put everything into a resume builder like Rezi for a professional ATS format.
• Or, format your resume yourself using MS Word, Google Docs, or other word processing software of your choice. Make sure the layout is clean and elegant.
• Save your resume as a PDF , unless the job description explicitly requires another file format.

This process of using AI tools, whether they’re focused specifically on resumes like Rezi AI or capable of performing general writing tasks like ChatGPT, can feel liberating. One of our Reddit users in our community even mentioned that: 

“The AI tools are amazing. The AI bullet point suggestions and AI Summary writer are lifesavers. My resume is leaps and bounds improved now.” 

While all sounds promising, don’t be surprised if you’re not fully satisfied with the first few outputs. It may take a few times before you get something that you feel happy enough to use as a foundation. 

If at any point you’re not pleased with the results as you’re following this guide, hit the generate button again. 

1. Describe Your Current Situation to ChatGPT

ChatGPT is revolutionizing writing , but it can’t read minds. It needs a little direction. 

Describing your current situation helps ChatGPT create not just any random resume, but a resume that aligns more with your background. 

Now, don’t get me wrong—the first draft won’t be perfect. You’ll have to double-check and replace certain details to ensure that they’re an accurate representation of your particular skills and experiences (more on that later).

Here’s how to describe your situation to ChatGPT: 

• Start by mentioning that you need help writing a resume for a particular job title. 
• Specify the job title you’re applying for. 
• Tell ChatGPT to ask you the top 3–5 questions for it to be able to draft a resume based on your background and the position you’re applying to (this way, the first draft won’t be too far off). 

In the screenshot below, you’ll see an example of this for a content manager position:

2. Answer ChatGPT’s Questions

After sending the first prompt, ChatGPT will reply with a few questions like this: 

Now, the next step is to answer each of these questions as best as you can. 

If you’re unsure, you could always ask ChatGPT within the same (or a new) thread for further clarification to help you answer any of the questions. For example, if you don’t know what your main achievements were in a previous role, ask ChatGPT for a list of the most common types of resume achievements for said position. 

Going off on what ChatGPT has asked me, here are my example answers: 

Work experience:

• Previous roles include: content manager at company ABC (2020–2023), senior content writer at company DEF (2018–2020), and content writer at company XYZ (2017–2018). 
• As a content manager, my main responsibility was overseeing the planning, creation, and distribution of content across various platforms. As senior content writer, my main responsibility was to create engaging content aligned with the content strategy and mentor junior writers. As a content writer, my main duty was to research, write, and edit content (articles, blog posts, website copy) following a brand voice and style guide.
• Content manager achievements include increasing website traffic, lead generation, and conversion rates. Content writer and senior content writer achievements include writing content that increased traffic and helping the company get featured on reputable publications like Forbes and getting lots of social shares. 

Skills and expertise:

• Content management, SEO, copywriting, project management, email marketing, social media
• Ahrefs, ClickUp, Google Search Console, Google Analytics, Data Studio, HubSpot, 

Education and certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in English literature, obtained from Harvard University
• I have a Google Analytics certification

Key projects and results:

• I once led a content strategy that boosted website traffic and the number of leads. I had created a content strategy and managed a content marketing budget of $10,000/mo budget, and also was responsible for hiring freelance writers to go from creating 4 articles per month to 12 articles per month.
• Metrics include doubling organic traffic, achieving page 1 rankings on Google, and seeing a 72% increase in leads.  ‍

Professional development and affiliations:

• Apart from the certifications mentioned above, I don’t have any formal affiliations with content management or content writing organizations.

After answering, hit enter. 

3. Refine Every Resume Section 

At this point, you should have a first draft of your resume by ChatGPT. Following on from our example, here’s what that might look like: 

Although it’s not perfect, I’m pretty impressed with the output. 

Once you have this, the next step is to fill in the blanks and refine every resume section to ensure that all details are accurate. 

Whenever there’s anything you want to add or remove, but you’re not sure how, you can always ask ChatGPT within the same thread. An example of this could be, “During my time as [Job Title] at [Company] in [Dates of Employment], I actually did [Specify any tasks, duties, or accomplishments]. Could you please add this in?”

Below, I’ll share what to look out for when going through each of these sections. If you want inspiration as you’re following through this, check out our library of resume examples here . 

And if you want an easier way to improve your bullet points, use our AI Bullet Point Editor —here’s how it works: 

• Highlight the bullet point that you want to refine. 
• Hit the “Rewrite Bullet” button.
• You’ll receive up to three suggestions—select the one you like the most. 

Boom, that’s it! 

Otherwise, continue reading for how to use ChatGPT to edit your resume . 

Work experience section

The work history section should present your career timeline and growth, as well as the impact you had in previous companies.

• Consider whether any results mentioned can be specified using numbers.
• Include timeframes to further specify duties or results. 
• Edit certain details to reflect your actual experience. 
• Use alternative action verbs that provide a more vivid description of your contributions. 
• Add any extra bullet points for other relevant responsibilities. 

If you remember specific achievements or duties that haven’t been included, ask ChatGPT to add these in and refine them from there. 

Education section

The education section is where you list all formal academic qualifications. 

• Confirm if all details here such as the degree title, location, and year of graduation are correct.
• Add any further information, like your GPA (only add it if higher than 3.5 and only if you’ve graduated less than 5 years ago).
• If you don’t have much work experience, mention any relevant minors, honors, academic achievements, or relevant coursework.
• If you’re an established professional, only listing your degree, school name, and graduation date will do. 

Skills section

Prioritize the most relevant competencies in the skills section. Never lie and include anything that you can’t prove you’re adept in.  

• Put skills in categories (such as “soft” and “technical” skills) for readability. 
• Optionally, include your proficiency level in brackets for certain skills for clarification. 
• Add other relevant skills that haven’t been mentioned. 
• Remove skills listed by ChatGPT that you’re not actually confident in. 
• Mention any industry tools or software you’re capable of using. 

Additional sections

Use extra resume sections to reinforce your credibility. Tell ChatGPT about any significant side projects, qualifications, or experience that you’d like to showcase. 

• If an additional section has been included, go through all the details and make sure the bullet points accurately depict what you did. 
• If there are no additional sections in the original draft, consider adding one (or a few). Extra sections help you further highlight your areas of expertise and skills. Examples of other sections include certifications, projects, awards, and more. 

Summary section

The first resume summary that ChatGPT generates might not be the best representation of your strengths. In this case, clarify your career highlights and expertise, and then ask ChatGPT to refine your intro based on this. 

• Make sure the areas of expertise highlighted are a genuine reflection of your professional strengths. 
• Emphasize how you can uniquely contribute and how your work background is compatible with the job requirements. 
• Ensure your summary is concise and only up to three or four sentences long. 

Have little to no work experience or changing career fields? Go for a resume objective statement instead of a summary. 

4. Ask ChatGPT to Tailor Your Resume to the Company’s Job Description

A generic resume will get overlooked. Tailoring your resume means highlighting skills and experiences that directly align with the job description. It shows you've taken the time to understand the company’s needs and how you can contribute. This means you’re way more likely to get an interview callback.

Companies don’t want to receive a resume that’s meant for anyone. They only look at resumes meant for them. 

If your resume comes across as an application that can be used for any other organization, you won’t make it past the applicant tracking systems (ATS) . 

Now, the reason I suggest using ChatGPT to tailor your resume after you refined everything and not earlier on is so that you have a general resume for a particular job title. 

Here’s what you need to do to make sure it’s built not just for a certain job title, but also for a certain company:

• Use resume keywords . 
• Prioritize showcasing achievements that prove you’re capable of fulfilling the role. 
• Emphasize tasks and responsibilities related to the primary job requirements. 
• List skills, tools, and frameworks that employers expect you to be proficient in. 

With a general resume, you can now easily tailor it for different companies you’re applying to by using ChatGPT. 

Here’s exactly how to tailor your resume using ChatGPT: 

• Copy and paste the job ad into ChatGPT. Then, ask ChatGPT to provide you with a list of keywords, skills, achievements, and responsibilities that employers want to see in your resume. 
• Ask ChatGPT to add some of the top keywords into your resume naturally. 
• Make ChatGPT adjust your summary section and focus on your most relevant strengths based on the job description. (You may also ask ChatGPT if it has any questions for you to clarify so that it can provide you with an accurate output.)
• Request ChatGPT to emphasize certain skills, tasks, and achievements for different resume sections. 
• Tell ChatGPT to reorganize your bullet points and prioritize sentences that align most to the company’s hiring expectations.
• Request ChatGPT to reorganize your skills section based on the job description. 
• Ask ChatGPT if there are any particular experiences or additional sections worth considering to further tailor your application.  

Alternatively, use a resume keyword scanner to know what keywords from the job description are of highest priority. Then, copy and paste this into ChatGPT and ask it to embed these keywords into your resume.

5. Double-Check Everything

Typos and inconsistencies can ruin your resume. 

Here’s your checklist to make sure your resume is good to go: 

• Verify all information. Since ChatGPT generated a bulk of your resume (and even though you refined everything), be sure that all details are factually accurate. This includes contact information, employment details, and so forth. 
• Proofread everything. Ensure no grammar and spelling mistakes. Read it to yourself aloud to catch any awkward phrasing. 
• Review all the keywords you’ve added and see if where you put them fit in naturally. 

Another tip is to get feedback from either a career coach or a resume checker . I’m more fond of the latter, considering the costs of a career expert. 

6. Put Everything Into a Resume Builder for a Professional ATS Resume Format

Even after having the perfect resume written using ChatGPT, you’ll still need a professional format. 

If you’ve been using a Word document, the format can look tacky once downloaded as a PDF .

Now, you have two options. You can either: 

• Make all formatting changes manually yourself (I suggest going through our resume format guide in this case)
• Put everything into a resume builder like Rezi where everything is done for you, so then you’ll have a resume that you can immediately submit. 

Here’s how to put everything into Rezi AI: 

• Choose one of our ATS-compliant templates here .
• Copy and paste your ChatGPT resume into the provided fields per section. 
• Head over to the “finish up & preview” tab to see how your resume looks.
• Make any micro adjustments if necessary, such as increasing font size.
• Download your polished resume in the file type you need, e.g., as a PDF.
• Edit the file name using your first and last name, such as “Astley-Cervania-Resume.pdf.” 

The Best ChatGPT Prompts to Write a Resume

Here’s a compilation of some of the best ChatGPT resume prompts: 

• “I'm building a resume for a [Job Title] position. My previous job positions were [Job Title], [Job Title], and [Job Title]. My areas of expertise are in [Skill] and [Skill]. Can you please help me write a resume for [Job Title] position and highlight my strengths?”
• “Here’s a draft of my resume for [Job Title]: [copy and paste your resume]. Can you tell me how I can make it more impactful and tailored to the position I’m applying for?” 
• “Here’s a draft of my resume for [Job Title]: [copy and paste your resume]. Could you tailor it to this job description: [copy and paste the job description]? I also want you to tell me what changes you made and how those changes improve the success rate of my resume.” 
• “Can you please write powerful resume bullet points for my previous job position as [Job Title] and emphasize my skills in XYZ and achievements in ABC?”
• “I don’t have many quantifiable accomplishments in my work experience. Can you please suggest ways to reframe certain bullet points to clarify the value and impact I made in previous roles?”
• "I held a [Job Title] position at [Company] but it wasn’t directly related to the [Job Title] role I'm currently applying for. Can you please help me tailor my experience to highlight transferable skills relevant to this position?"
• “Based on my work experience and the job description, can you suggest what skills I should list in the skills section of my resume?”
• "I’m struggling to write a concise and impactful resume summary. Can you help me write one that highlights my track record, strengths, career highlights, and unique value proposition for a [Job Title] position?"

Let’s recap everything discussed on how to use ChatGPT to write a resume: 

• State that you’re trying to write a resume for a specific job position, and then tell ChatGPT to ask you questions about your background, so the output isn’t entirely random. 
• Answer all questions provided by ChatGPT to the best of your knowledge. If you’re unsure about any particular question, you can ask ChatGPT in the same thread for clarification. 
• Edit the entire resume by sections, starting with the work experience.
• Ask ChatGPT to tailor your resume to the company’s job description—copy and paste the job ad into ChatGPT.
• Double-check everything, making sure all details are factually correct.
• Put everything into Rezi for a professional ATS resume format. 

And there you have it! 

AI tools can make your life easier when it comes to writing a resume. Although ChatGPT is an option, you’re better off using an AI tool (like Rezi ) that’s specifically designed to help you build the perfect resume.

How do you improve your resume with ChatGPT?

Copy and paste the company’s job description into ChatGPT. Then, ask ChatGPT how to improve your resume based on not only the best practices, but also based on the job description. For a more targeted and detailed approach, have ChatGPT review your resume by sections, starting with your work experience. 

How do you update your resume with ChatGPT?

Describe your current situation. Tell ChatGPT that you’re looking to update your resume for a particular job position. Next, copy and paste your resume into ChatGPT and then tell it to ask you the top questions it has for it to update your resume. After answering the questions ChatGPT gives you, it’ll come back to you with an updated version of your resume. At this point, double-check everything is factually correct. You can also ask ChatGPT to give you suggestions on how to further improve your resume for a stronger application. 

Can ChatGPT write a resume?

Yes, ChatGPT can write a resume. It’s all about giving it the correct prompts. However, don’t solely rely on ChatGPT. You’ll still need to check and edit everything, but it can speed up the process. 

How to get access to ChatGPT?

Head over to this website and sign up for an account to get access to ChatGPT. 

How to upload a resume to ChatGPT?

Click the attach file icon and upload your resume. However, this only works when you have access to the premium version of ChatGPT. If you’re using ChatGPT-3, you’ll have to copy and paste your resume into the prompt instead. 

Can ChatGPT rewrite my resume?

Yes, ChatGPT can rewrite your resume and help you make it more impactful. Simply enter the prompt, “Can you rewrite my resume and make it more impactful for a [Job Title] position?” From there, verify all the details generated and make sure everything is an accurate reflection of your professional background.

Astley Cervania

Astley Cervania is a career writer and editor who has helped hundreds of thousands of job seekers build resumes and cover letters that land interviews. He is a Rezi-acknowledged expert in the field of career advice and has been delivering job success insights for 4+ years, helping readers translate their work background into a compelling job application.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Sample Job Descriptions to...

Sample Job Descriptions to Help You Enhance Your Resume

5 min read · Updated on December 10, 2021

It doesn't matter what you do for a living; when you decide to look for work, you instantly become a marketer.

As a job seeker, you are required to advertise your qualifications and professional reputation — in other words, your personal brand — to employers and recruiters in your desired field online, in person, and on paper.

One of the most important documents you'll need to update or create for this process is your professional resume. A great resume is written with a specific job goal in mind. It should be tailored for each job application by showcasing your most valuable and relevant skills in a way that positions you as an ideal candidate for the job you want.

Why use job descriptions when creating your resume

In order to ensure that your professional resume is supporting your career goals, gather a few sample job descriptions that describe the type of position you're interested in and qualified for. Then, compare the skills and qualifications on your resume with the desired qualifications in the sample job descriptions.

By reviewing job description examples, you'll be able to identify what technical and soft skills, credentials, and work experience matter most to an employer in your target field.

This will aid your job search in many ways. First, it will help you determine if you're missing any important skills that recruiters are looking for . Once you have this information, then you can take steps to build up those skill sets with courses, certification programs, side projects, or internships to become a more attractive job candidate.

Second, these sample job descriptions will help you decide which of your current qualifications should be highlighted throughout your professional resume and cover letter.

And finally, you can use example job descriptions to find the right words to describe the roles and responsibilities you held in each job listed in your work history.

How to get started using job descriptions for your resume

To help you get started, take a look at the sample job descriptions below. For additional example job descriptions, search for listings on your favorite online job boards, and check out the following links from Workable.com .

Search for two types of sample job descriptions:

Job posts that are similar to roles you've previously held; and

Listings that represent the type of position you're currently targeting.

In both of these instances, don't worry about the job's location. For the purpose of this exercise, instead only focus on the job description and its requirements.

Use the sample job descriptions that match titles in your work history to beef up your professional resume's Employment History section. Click on the following link to learn how to use these job listings to brag about your experience .

Once you've found three to five sample listings that describe your job goals, copy and paste the text of each job description into a Word document and bold any phrases that routinely pop up. Then, highlight each term that describes a qualification you possess. Use this information to edit your resume and cover letter so that your key accomplishments and skills match those desired by your target employer. Your end result should be a professional resume that mirrors the employer's requirements.

Sample Job Descriptions:

Account Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for account manager

Accountant Sample Job Description

View the job description for accountant

Administrative Assistant Sample Job Description

View the job description for administrative assistant

Business Analyst Sample Job Description

View the job description for business analyst

Cashier Sample Job Description

View the job description for cashier

Customer Service Representative Sample Job Description

View the job description for customer service representative

Host/Hostess Sample Job Description

View the job description for host/hostess

Machine Operator Sample Job Description

View the job description for machine operator

Medical Assistant Sample Job Description

View the job description for medical assistant

Office Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for office manager

Operations Manager Sample Job Description

Project manager sample job description.

View the job description for project manager

Receptionist Sample Job Description

View the job description for receptionist

Research Assistant Sample Job Description

View the job description for research assistant

Retail Sales Associate Sample Job Description

View the job description for retail sales associate

Sales Director Sample Job Description

View the job description for sales director

Sales Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for sales manager

Security Officer Sample Job Description

View the job description for security officer

Senior Account Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior account manager

Senior Accounting Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior accounting manager

Senior Business Analyst Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior business analyst

Senior Project Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior project manager

Senior Sales Associate Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior sales associate

Senior Software Developer Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior software developer

Senior Software Engineer Sample Job Description

View the job description for senior software engineer

Server Sample Job Description

View the job description for server

Software Developer Sample Job Description

View the job description for software developer

Software Engineer Sample Job Description

View the job description for software engineer

Store Manager Sample Job Description

View the job description for store manager

Waiter/Waitress Sample Job Description

View the job description for waiter/waitress

Click on the following link for more job-search advice .

Still need help with your resume? Take advantage of our free resume review today!

Recommended Reading:

The Essential Parts of a Resume Explained

Free Download: Resume Worksheet by TopResume

How to Tailor Your Resume for a Specific Application

Related Articles:

How to Maximize Your Resume Action Words to Wow the Employer

Resume Spelling and Accent Explained

Guide to Writing a Great Resume with No Work Experience

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