how to do resume in phone

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• Resume Help

How to make a resume on your iPhone: convenient resume building

Have your information ready to copy and paste

Formatting and style, proofreading, saving and sharing, 1. resume.io , 5. kickresume, cover letter content, too much information.

When two-thirds of the world’s population is using a mobile device, it’s natural to want to make your device work for you. It helps you to communicate with friends and probably to do your job—so why shouldn’t it help you to find a job, too? But, it begs the question: can you make a resume on your iPhone?

The short answer is yes. That might be the simple answer you were looking for. However, in this guide, we’re committed to getting into the nitty-gritty details. From the tools to make a resume on your iPhone to whether you should attempt it in the first place.

When you’re looking for a job, it’s important to consider your overall intention and be strategic. If you’re asking yourself how to make a resume on your iPhone, you’re probably busy. But will you really save time when you make a resume on your iPhone? Plus, just because you know how to make a resume on your iPhone, it doesn’t mean you should. Ultimately, will the final document tick all of the boxes that a demanding hiring manager will be looking for?

Luckily for you, at Resume.io we know a thing or two about how to nail the job hunt. Our free resources have helped millions of job seekers. By the end of this guide, you should understand how to make a resume on your iPhone and—more importantly—understand which tool could offer the best solution for you.

In this blog, we will cover the following topics:

• Can you make a resume on an iPhone?
• Things to consider before you start making a resume on your iPhone
• How to make a resume on your iPhone
• The best tools to use

For many, smartphones are a beacon of productivity! In fact, 75 percent of people asked for a Google report said that theirs made them more productive.

An on-the-go job-seeking revolution

Alongside making the job hunt more accessible, using digital devices for multiple purposes in our day-to-day lives has ushered in an era of immediacy and urgency. Job seeking is no different. With the world at our fingertips, this also includes a plethora of job opportunities. And our smartphones are our trusted companion in opening them up.

Job seekers can receive real-time notifications about new job postings, allowing them to act swiftly and apply for positions as soon as they become available. This sense of urgency has streamlined the application process, reducing the chances of missing out on coveted job opportunities. This revolution is not just about browsing job listings on your smartphone; it represents a fundamental shift in how we approach employment opportunities.

According to Glass Door , 58 percent of their users are carrying out job searches using their mobile devices. That means you’re not alone in your mobile job-searching habits. Just remember to make sure that the job you are applying to can be applied to just as easily using your iPhone or mobile device.

As you will see in the tools that we have curated, job hunting on the go will continue to lean into the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in the recruitment process. AI-driven algorithms can match candidates with job openings based on their qualifications and preferences. However, these technologies can also be leveraged by candidates like you during the process of preparing their job applications. That is if you are using the right tools. 

Can you create a resume on an iPhone?

Many of us are already scrolling through job ads on our phones. So what about the subsequent steps in applying for a job? There are a plethora of tools on offer that turn your iPhone into a mean job-hunting machine.

What problem are you trying to solve with technology?

CIPD , the professional body for Human Resources and People Development, recommends that when their members employ tech in their recruitment they should ask themselves this simple question. 

As an applicant, make sure you ask yourself the same question as you embark on thinking about how to make a resume on your iPhone.

However, take a moment to consider whether you should. While you might be able to dedicate time to making a resume on your iPhone during moments when it would be difficult to use your laptop or computer, you could bump into some pitfalls along the way. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Will my resume be made to a better standard and/or faster if I do it on a computer?
• Have I considered how I plan to format my iPhone resume to make it look professional?
• Am I comfortable that I will be able to assess the quality of my resume on my iPhone? Remember that many hiring managers might view your resume on a larger computer screen.

If you’re still confident that an iPhone resume is the way to go, then we’ve got you covered. 

How do you make a resume on a phone?

The best way to make a resume on your phone is to use an online builder or an app. However, there are a few things you should think about before you get stuck in.

Before you start crafting your resume, ensure you have all your essential personal information at hand. Make sure that the text you want to include in your resume is written out somewhere that will be easy to copy and paste into your resume builder of choice.

Not only do most people find this to be easier than typing your resume on your phone keyboard. It’s easy to forget your relevant previous experience, achievements, and skills. Keeping this information all in one place that is easily accessible on your phone will help you save time and create a better-quality resume.

Some ideas on where to store this information could include your Notes app, the drafts of your chosen email app, or another note-taking app of your choice. 

Be aware of the formatting and style preferences of the resume builder or app you choose. Different platforms may have different templates and customization options, so take some time to explore them and pick one that suits your needs.

After creating your resume, always proofread it carefully. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting issues. You want your resume to look polished and professional.

Decide on the format you want to save your resume in (PDF is often preferred) and choose a suitable file name. Remember to make sure it's easily accessible on your phone for sharing with potential employers via email or job application platforms.

Simple. Although it’s important to consider that while making a resume on your phone is convenient, it's crucial to ensure that the final product looks clean and professional. Take your time to create a well-organized and error-free document. After all, your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer!

Recruiters are using their phones too

According to Global Tech Insights , as well as increasing the talent pool, recruiters benefit from digital hiring efforts by being able to monitor their campaigns and filter applicants on the go. Recruiting mobile apps have been adopted into their professional toolkit.

Best resume builders to make a resume on your iPhone

These online resume builders and apps make crafting a professional resume on your phone a breeze. Whether you need a sleek design, expert guidance, or AI-powered assistance, there is a platform for you. Plus, all of these are available to use via your preferred iPhone browser or dedicated app. Here are some of the top options:

Resume.io’s mobile site offers a selection of resume templates to fit your needs. To make things even easier, you can choose from hundreds of job titles and start editing a resume example for your specific role, complete with suggested content and examples. Or, fill out a template from scratch. The dedicated AI tool even lets you optimize your resume for a specific job listing when you enter the link to the job post you’re applying for.

• Features. A simple-to-use resume creator with free templates and customizable resume examples specific to your desired role.
• AI and human-powered. Professionally written resume guides get you started, but when you’re in a rush AI suggestions can analyze the job listing and make sure you’re tailoring your resume to the job at hand.
• Complementary cover letter. When you’re in a pinch, the AI-powered tools can also help you write a cover letter from your resume’s content in just a few clicks.

You can use Indeed’s mobile site to build a resume in moments. You’ll simply be prompted to pick from one of several simple templates. Now it’s down to you to customize it and add your personal information. It’s straightforward to download the final version of your resume to your iPhone’s files with the tap of a finger.

• Features. A variety of pre-built templates in different styles, including Clean, Minimalist, Simple, Creative, Executive, and Modern.
• Guided builder. A guided resume builder assists you through the process with plenty of examples available for inspiration.
• Direct application. Once your resume is complete you can apply for jobs directly on the Indeed platform.

Zety’s mobile site is another simple option to make a resume on your iPhone. You upload an existing resume and the site will extract the information to build a foundation for your new, up-to-date resume. Or the platform can recommend resume layout templates to you based on the number of years you have been in employment. 

• Features. Zety offers HR-approved templates created with input from certified professional resume writers and graphic designers. While some features require a paid plan, there's a 14-day trial without feature restrictions.
• Flexibility. You can start from scratch or upload your existing resume, and a wizard autofill option can help draft content.
• Content suggestions. Get content suggestions tailored to your job or industry. Plus, all 18 customizable templates are ATS-compliant.

Both Canva’s mobile site and app are super user-friendly. Canva’s unique selling point is its easy-to-create designs and visuals. They have thousands of aesthetically pleasing resume templates. Plus, you can upload your own graphic assets such as photos or logos, or scour their library for free ones. Just make sure you don’t go overboard and you keep it professional.

• Features. There are thousands of templates on offer, including industry-specific options, which you can easily customize. You can share your CV in various formats, including PDF, JPEG, PNG, or send a viewable link to employers.
• AI Tools. The Magic Design AI tool generates polished one-page designs, while the Magic Write AI helps you craft concise descriptions.
• Design Options. Access over 3000 free fonts and millions of free graphic elements for creative customization.

Kickresume’s mobile site or app both offer unique possibilities for building your resume in just a few steps. For instance, you can import data directly from your LinkedIn profile and build your resume that way. To go a step further to stand out from the crowd, you could even utilize the option to create a personal website from your resume.

• Features. Kickresume offers 35+ customizable, ATS-friendly templates and pre-written phrases for over 3,000 positions. Plus, the AI resume checker identifies areas for improvement.
• LinkedIn integration. Import data directly from LinkedIn to create your resume, and even turn it into a personal website.
• Student-friendly. Kickresume is free for students who can prove their status.

What not to include in your iPhone resume

Remember that space on your resume is limited. A busy hiring manager will simply skim your resume to determine whether or not to invite you to the next round. Want to know how to make a resume on your iPhone that doesn’t get you called to an interview? Make some of these common mistakes and you might just find out!

There may be time to talk about your interests in an interview. However, unless it is highly relevant to the job posting, don’t use precious resume real estate talking about what you do in your spare time.

Your resume summary allows a spot for you to expand on why you are right for this specific job. However, it should not be turned into a mini cover letter. Your summary should be around three sentences long. Your job application should include a dedicated cover letter, in any case. You can check out our expert guide on how to write a cover letter if you want to learn more about that.

Unless you have over ten years of experience, the rule of thumb is to aim for a resume that is one or two pages long. For many people, that requires being selective about what does and does not make it onto the final copy of your resume. Keep each section of your iPhone resume clear and concise. If you want to know more about the ideal resume length, we have a dedicated guide on how long your resume should be .

Key takeaways

• Before making a resume on your iPhone, think about your overall intention. Will you save time? Will you be able to apply more readily to quality job leads?
• Gather the information you need to make a resume on your iPhone in advance.
• Choose a top resume builder based on your individual needs.
• Remember to proofread your resume and consider its overall design and appearance before you share it with any recruiters or hiring managers.

How to Make a Resume on iPhone: A Complete Guide

Table of Contents

Have you ever wondered how to make a resume on an iPhone? In today's competitive job market, having a professional resume at your fingertips can be a game-changer. Whether you're constantly on the move or simply prefer the convenience of your mobile device, creating a resume on your iPhone is not only possible but also highly efficient. With the right apps and tools, you can ensure your resume is polished and ready to impress potential employers, no matter where you are.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to create a standout resume directly from your iPhone. From choosing the best apps and templates to customizing your resume and ensuring it's formatted correctly, we've got you covered. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the knowledge and resources needed to create a professional resume that can help you land your dream job. Let's get started on your path to success!

Why Having A Professional Resume Is Important?

A professional resume is your ticket to making a solid first impression during your job hunt. It showcases your skills, experience, and qualifications, making you stand out among other candidates. A well-crafted resume can significantly increase your chances of landing that dream job. You demonstrate your attention to detail and dedication to your career by presenting a polished and professional document. Moreover, a strong resume helps you effectively communicate your value to potential employers, setting the stage for successful job applications.

Critical Reasons for Having a Professional Resume:

• Strong First Impression: Your resume is often the first thing potential employers see, so making it professional and polished is crucial for standing out.
• Showcases Your Skills: A well-crafted resume highlights your skills, experiences, and qualifications, clarifying why you’re the right fit for the job.
• Increases Job Opportunities: A professional resume can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed by employers, leading to more interview opportunities.
• Demonstrates Attention to Detail: Presenting a detailed and error-free resume shows employers that you are meticulous and serious about your career.
• Communicates Value: Your resume effectively communicates your value to potential employers, making it easier for them to see how you can contribute to their organization.
• Sets the Stage for Applications: A strong resume lays the foundation for successful job applications, providing a solid basis for your cover letter and interview discussions.
• Differentiates You from Others: In a competitive job market, a standout resume helps you differentiate yourself from other candidates, increasing your chances of being selected for further consideration.

Pros and Cons of Using Resume Builder Apps

Using resume builder apps on your iPhone has its advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, these apps offer convenience and flexibility, allowing you to create and edit your resume anytime, anywhere. They often come with a wide range of templates and customization options, making creating a visually appealing resume easier. Additionally, resume builder apps usually guide you through the process, ensuring you include all the critical elements of a strong resume. However, there are some downsides to consider. 

Some apps may have limited template options or require in-app purchases for premium features. Additionally, while these apps are designed to simplify the process, they may sometimes offer different levels of customization and control than creating a resume on a computer.

• Convenience and flexibility: Create and edit your resume anytime, anywhere on your iPhone.
• Wide range of templates: Choose various templates to suit your style and industry.
• Customization options: Easily customize your resume to highlight your skills and experiences.
• Guided process: Step-by-step guidance ensures you include all critical elements of a strong resume.
• Limited templates: Some apps may offer a limited selection of free templates.
• In-app purchases: Premium features and templates often require additional purchases.
• Customization limitations: It may provide a different level of control than creating a resume on a computer.
• Less control over formatting: Unlike desktop software, specific formatting options might be restricted.

How to Make a Resume on iPhone?

Creating a resume on your iPhone is straightforward. It involves choosing the right app, setting up your account, selecting a template, customizing your resume, formatting your content, and finally, saving and sharing your document. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

• Choosing the Right App on iPhone

The first step in learning how to create a resume on an iPhone is selecting the right app. Several resume builder apps are available on the App Store, each offering unique features. Popular options include Resume Star, Resume Builder+, and Canva. When choosing an app, consider user reviews, ease of use, available templates, and customization options. Some apps may offer free basic templates with optional paid upgrades for premium designs and features. Make sure to select an app that aligns with your needs and preferences.

• Setting Up Your Account

Once you’ve chosen the right app, the next step is setting up your account. Most resume builder apps require creating an account using your email address. This allows you to save progress and access your resume across multiple devices. Follow the app’s instructions to create your account, and verify your email address if prompted. Setting up your account is a quick and easy process that ensures you can save and retrieve your resume anytime.

• Selecting a Template

With your account set up, it’s time to select a template. A good template provides a professional layout and helps you organize your information effectively. Most resume builder apps offer a variety of templates to choose from, ranging from simple and clean designs to more elaborate formats. Browse the available options and select a template that best suits your industry and personal style. Remember, the goal is to create a resume that is both visually appealing and easy to read.

• Customizing Your Resume

Customization is a crucial step in creating a standout resume. Enter your personal information, including your name, contact details, and professional summary. Next, add your work experience, education, skills, and other relevant sections. Pay attention to the details and ensure that your resume is tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight your most relevant accomplishments and use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and achievements. Customizing your resume lets you present your qualifications in the best possible light.

• ‍ Formatting Your Content

Proper formatting is essential for creating a professional resume on your iPhone. Use consistent font styles and sizes to ensure readability. Avoid using overly decorative fonts that can distract from the content. Utilize bullet points to list your responsibilities and achievements, making it easier for employers to scan your resume. Ensure your resume is well-organized, with clear headings and subheadings for each section. Formatting your content effectively enhances the overall appearance of your resume and makes it more appealing to potential employers.

• Saving and Sharing

After customizing and formatting your resume, saving and sharing your document is the final step. Most resume builder apps allow you to save your resume in various formats, such as PDF or Word. Choose the format best suits your needs and save a copy to your device. Additionally, many apps offer sharing options that allow you to email your resume directly from your iPhone or upload it to job application platforms. Saving and sharing your resume ensures you can efficiently distribute it to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a job.

Creating a resume on an iPhone has always been challenging. With the right app and a few simple steps, you can have a professional resume ready quickly. By choosing a suitable template, customizing your content, and correctly formatting your resume, you’ll be well on your way to impressing potential employers. 

Remember, a well-crafted resume is vital in your job hunt, helping you stand out and secure your dream job. For more tips and resources on making a resume on iPhone, visit our site at RampedCareers , where we provide a technology platform to help job seekers get interviews and jobs faster.

Things You Need While Searching for a Job

Once you are armed with the knowledge about what kind of job will make you happy, there are core things to get lined up for a job search. Let's look at a few.

What to Look for in a Job

Fun fact, most people will have about 12 different jobs in their working lifetime. This goes to show that finding a job that you love enough to hang onto takes some forethought and possibly a bit of trial and error. Just the same, you can make some plans in advance, helping you land in a position that leaves you perfectly content. Check out a few things to look for when looking for that perfect job.

Related content

Learn how to show promotion on a resume effectively. Explore the pros, cons, and best tips for showcasing multiple positions in the same company in a resume.

List minors on a resume to boost your qualifications. Tips and formatting options are included. Get your resume ready for potential employers today!

Learn how to make your resume stand out in today's competitive job market with our expert tips. Get noticed by hiring managers. Visit www.rampedcareers.com for more.

How to Make Resume on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a resume on your iPhone is a breeze with the right tools and apps. You can choose from various templates, customize your information, and share your resume with potential employers, all from the palm of your hand. Let’s dive into how you can make a standout resume using your iPhone.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Make Resume on iPhone

Before we begin, remember that a well-crafted resume can set you apart in the job market. Follow these steps to ensure your resume is professional and ready to impress.

Step 1: Choose a Resume Builder App

Download a reputable resume builder app from the App Store.

There are many resume builder apps available, so look for one with high ratings and good reviews. Some popular options include LinkedIn, Resume Star, and PathSource Resume.

Step 2: Select a Template

Choose a template that suits your industry and personal style.

A good template will have a clean, easy-to-read layout. Think about the impression you want to make on a hiring manager and select a template that reflects that.

Step 3: Fill in Your Information

Input your personal details, work experience, education, and skills.

Be honest and clear about your experience. Use bullet points and action verbs to describe your previous job duties and achievements.

Step 4: Customize Your Resume

Adjust the font, color scheme, and other elements to personalize your resume.

Your resume should reflect your personality but remain professional. Stick to traditional fonts like Arial or Times New Roman and use color sparingly.

Step 5: Review and Edit

Proofread your resume for any typos or errors.

Ask a friend or family member to review your resume as well. A second set of eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed.

Step 6: Save and Share

Save your resume to your iPhone and share it directly with employers or through job application platforms.

Most resume builder apps will allow you to save your resume as a PDF or a Word document. Always choose PDF to ensure the formatting stays intact when opened by the employer.

After completing these steps, you’ll have a professional resume ready to help you land your dream job. The convenience of creating and sending your resume directly from your iPhone makes the job application process easier than ever.

Tips for Making Resume on iPhone

• Keep your resume to one page if possible, especially if you’re early in your career.
• Use keywords from job descriptions to make your resume more attractive to applicant tracking systems.
• Highlight your achievements rather than just listing job duties.
• Always customize your resume for each job application, emphasizing relevant experience.
• Back up your resume in the cloud or email it to yourself for safekeeping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if i don’t have much work experience.

Focus on your skills, volunteer work, and educational achievements. Any experience that demonstrates your abilities and work ethic is valuable.

Can I add a photo to my resume on my iPhone?

While you can add a photo, it’s not recommended unless it’s a standard practice in your industry or country.

How often should I update my resume?

You should update your resume regularly, ideally after completing a significant project, learning a new skill, or changing jobs.

What’s the best file format to save my resume?

The best format is PDF as it preserves your resume’s layout across different devices and platforms.

Can I make a cover letter with these apps too?

Yes, many resume builder apps also offer cover letter templates and customization options.

• Choose a Resume Builder App
• Select a Template
• Fill in Your Information
• Customize Your Resume
• Review and Edit
• Save and Share

No longer are the days of being tethered to a desktop computer to create a professional resume. With your iPhone in hand, you’re equipped to craft a winning resume that showcases your skills and experiences beautifully. The key is to select the right app, choose a suitable template, and tailor your resume for each job application. Remember, your resume is often the first impression a potential employer will have of you, so take the time to make it shine. Who knew that your trusty iPhone could also be your ticket to your next career opportunity? Go ahead, give it a try, and watch the job offers roll in!

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

Share this:

Join our free newsletter.

Featured guides and deals

You may opt out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Related posts:

• How to Create a Resume Without Microsoft Word: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Create Resume in Word: The Ultimate 2024 Guide
• How to Convert a Resume From WordPerfect to Microsoft Word: A Guide
• How to Make a Resume on Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Make All Columns the Same Width in Excel 2013
• How to Make a Template in Google Docs: Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Restore MS Office Normal Template: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Edit a Template in MS Word: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Save a PowerPoint Template Folder: Easy Steps to Follow
• How to Find a Template in Word 2007: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Save Label Templates on Microsoft Office Word: A Step-by-Step Guide
• 15 iPhone Settings You Might Want to Change
• Address Label Template in Google Docs: A How-To Guide
• How to Use MS Word Templates: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Create a Template in PowerPoint: 2024 Guide for Success
• How to Change PowerPoint Template: 2024 Guide for a Fresh Look
• How to Use Google Templates: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Create an Outlook Email Template in Outlook 2013
• How to Use a Google Slides Template: Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Use a Book Template for Word 2019: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Save Your Resume on Your Phone (and Apply for Jobs!)

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

If You've Been Offered a Job Unexpectedly, It Could Be a Scam

Why checkboxes are excel's most underrated feature, master numerical data in google sheets with average functions: here's how.

If you're currently searching for work, you should have a copy of your resume on your mobile phone. When you always have access to your professional information, you look more coordinated. It also lets you respond to job postings even when you can’t access your computer.

Read on to learn how to store your resume and apply for jobs from your phone.

1. How to Save a Resume to Your Phone

It’s best to save your resume as a PDF, since many job-searching websites require this format. Using a PDF file type also ensures that the resume will look the same no matter what program it’s loaded in.

Once you have it saved, you need to send it to the phone. You can do this in a few different ways.

1. Use Cloud Storage

The easiest way to access your resume from a phone is to use cloud storage. If you use a service like Dropbox , then you can access the file through the mobile app.

Download : Dropbox for Android | iOS (Free, subscriptions available)

2. Use Bluetooth

Another way to send the resume to your phone is to use Bluetooth. You have to start by enabling Bluetooth connections on your phone and computer . Then, put your phone in discovery mode.

Next, go to Windows Settings > Bluetooth and other devices and select the phone from the list of devices. Once paired, you can select send a file from the Bluetooth Options in the system tray. Make sure to accept the files from your phone, or the transfer won’t be completed.

3. Use the Charging Cable for Android Smartphones

You can also connect using your phone’s charging cable. Start by plugging your phone into one of your computer’s USB ports. You may see a dialog box asking what to do with it. When you see the dialog, select Open Files . Then you can click and drag the resume from your computer into your phone’s storage.

If you don’t see a dialog, find your phone using Windows Explorer. Go to This PC , and you should see your phone appear on the list of drives. If not, you might need to troubleshoot the connection between your phone and computer .

2. Update Your Resume From Your Phone

Another benefit of keeping your resume in your phone is that you can make updates on the go. This is helpful for when you want to fine-tune your resume for a specific position.

Save a copy of your resume to your phone as a .docx or other editable file types. Then, you can edit that copy and export it as a PDF, saving over the old version. You could also edit the PDF directly through a PDF editing app.

Adobe Acrobat is a good option, but you need a premium subscription to unlock PDF editing. Adobe offers a free trial to help you decide if it's worth subscribing to.

Download: Adobe Acrobat for Android | iOS (Free, subscription available)

3. Apply to Jobs From Your Phone

Most application websites will ask you to upload your resume as a file. When you press the upload button, you can access the file you saved in step one. You can make sure you are uploading the correct file by previewing it. To preview, tap the expansion icon. It looks like four arrows pointing outward in the corner of the thumbnail.

For job sites that have you fill out a form, you can copy and paste from your .docx or other document file types. In most cases, the pasted information will convert to plain text. So you don't need to worry about formatting.

Enjoy Fast Access to Your Resume

You may not think of your phone as a professional device, but it’s a great place to store your resume. Having it close lets you customize, save, and send your resume as soon as you get an offer, even if you're not at home.

You can optimize your job search even further by using a specialized job-finding app.

• Work & Career
• Job Searching

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• Communication Skills
• Interview Skills
• Job Interviews

How to Download a Resume from the Indeed App

Last Updated: June 4, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Darlene Antonelli, MA . Darlene Antonelli is a Technology Writer and Editor for wikiHow. Darlene has experience teaching college courses, writing technology-related articles, and working hands-on in the technology field. She earned an MA in Writing from Rowan University in 2012 and wrote her thesis on online communities and the personalities curated in such communities. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 62,582 times. Learn more...

Using the Indeed mobile app, you can apply to jobs on the go using your online resume. This wikiHow will teach you how to save your resume to your phone or tablet using the Indeed mobile app.

• You might have to give the app permission to access your photos, media, and files on your device before continuing.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/mobile
• ↑ https://support.indeed.com/hc/en-us/articles/4408783727629-Uploading-or-Replacing-a-Resume-File
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/profile/resume-templates

About This Article

1. Open Indeed . 2. Tap My Resume . 3. Tap Download Resume . 4. Select a template. 5. Tap Download resume . Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

Privacy preference center

We care about your privacy

When you visit our website, we will use cookies to make sure you enjoy your stay. We respect your privacy and we’ll never share your resumes and cover letters with recruiters or job sites. On the other hand, we’re using several third party tools to help us run our website with all its functionality.

But what exactly are cookies? Cookies are small bits of information which get stored on your computer. This information usually isn’t enough to directly identify you, but it allows us to deliver a page tailored to your particular needs and preferences.

Because we really care about your right to privacy, we give you a lot of control over which cookies we use in your sessions. Click on the different category headings on the left to find out more, and change our default settings.

However, remember that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of our website. Finally, note that we’ll need to use a cookie to remember your cookie preferences.

Without these cookies our website wouldn’t function and they cannot be switched off. We need them to provide services that you’ve asked for.

Want an example? We use these cookies when you sign in to Kickresume. We also use them to remember things you’ve already done, like text you’ve entered into a registration form so it’ll be there when you go back to the page in the same session.

Thanks to these cookies, we can count visits and traffic sources to our pages. This allows us to measure and improve the performance of our website and provide you with content you’ll find interesting.

Performance cookies let us see which pages are the most and least popular, and how you and other visitors move around the site.

All information these cookies collect is aggregated (it’s a statistic) and therefore completely anonymous. If you don’t let us use these cookies, you’ll leave us in the dark a bit, as we won’t be able to give you the content you may like.

We use these cookies to uniquely identify your browser and internet device. Thanks to them, we and our partners can build a profile of your interests, and target you with discounts to our service and specialized content.

On the other hand, these cookies allow some companies target you with advertising on other sites. This is to provide you with advertising that you might find interesting, rather than with a series of irrelevant ads you don’t care about.

10 Best Resume Apps for iPhone & Android in 2023

Anyone looking to create a beautiful resume on the go may wonder what the best resume apps for iPhone and Android are in 2023.

Choosing the ideal resume app can be tough — it’s a crowded market with hundreds of apps to choose from.

Luckily, we did the research so you don't have to and selected 10 of the best resume-building apps for both iOS and Android that let you customize, edit, and export your resume with ease. We have also included their key features and capabilities. 

All of these apps include free features that make it easy and affordable to create a resume that takes you one step closer to landing a career of your dreams — all of that on your phone.

Without further ado, here are the 10 best resume apps that are available for iOS and Android in 2023.

1. Kickresume: AI Resume Builder

Available for: iOS & Android

Pricing: Free (premium features from $5/month)

Top feature: AI Resume Writer powered by GPT-3 model that writes the content for you

Kickresume's AI Resume Builder app is a highly-rated resume app used by more than 1,800,000 job seekers (and counting). With more than 35 expertly-designed templates to choose from, you can create a resume that perfectly matches your professional persona and career goals.

What's more, the Kickresume app now includes a GPT-3 powered AI Resume and Cover Letter Writer , that lets you use AI to write your documents. This feature can help with your writer's block as well as save you precious time.

And if you need even more help with writing, the Kickresume Autopilot feature comes to the rescue. It lets you assemble a resume from 20,000 pre-written job or industry-specific phrases for more than 3,200 job positions, including marketing, technology, IT, retail, or science, and many more. 

Plus, you can create more than a million combinations with many different customizable templates allowing you to adjust anything from typography styles and colors of the design elements, all the way through page format. 

Here’s an overview of the additional features the Kickresume app has to offer:

• 1,500+ job-specific resume samples to get you inspired
• 20,000 pre-written job or industry-specific phrases
• 4 free templates with no additional purchase necessary
• 33 premium templates available via subscriptions
• Proofreading services (for an additional fee)
• CV and resume writing guides

The Kickresume app stores all documents in the cloud, allowing you to pick up where you left off on your desktop, iPad, tablet, or another mobile device. 

2. Canva: Design, Photo & Video 

Pricing: Free (premium features from $12.99/month)

Top feature: Creative templates designed by graphic designers

Canva is a well-known graphic design platform that offers a variety of tools for creating social media posts, infographics, posters, and — of course — resumes.

Along with the web app, Canva also offers a mobile app available for both iOS and Android . In this app, you can access many of the same features available on the desktop version, including thousands of pre-customized resume templates.

With a focus on graphic design, Canva’s resume-building tools can be great for job applicants in creative fields.

If you need some help with writing, you can easily share your resume with a friend, colleague, or professional editor. Canva’s tools enable live collaboration so you and the other person can access the document simultaneously.

Canva has a whole host of free features and tools that can help you create a great resume. However, if you want to go the extra mile, you'll probably need to upgrade to Canva Pro.

The additional features available when making a resume with Canva mobile app include:

• Free graphic elements for a designer touch
• Easy upload for your own photos and logos
• The Canva background remover tool is great for resumes that include a professional headshot

Canva syncs its mobile and desktop versions when using them online, allowing you to work between the two as needed.

3. Microsoft Word

Pricing: Free (subscription from $6.99/month)

Top feature: Mobile-optimized templates, formats, and layouts

When it comes to desktop word-processing apps, few are as well-known as Microsoft Word.

But did you know Microsoft Word also has a mobile app for both iPhones and Android phones?

Microsoft Word mobile app offers 2 basic resume templates which you can later customize however you want.

It also lets you sync documents between your phone and computer, allowing you to write on the go.

Plus, you can download the MS Word app separately or you can download the larger Office Mobile app that includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Additional features you can find in the MS Word mobile app include:

• Simplified sharing
• Copy-and-paste tools that retain your document’s format (for pasting into an email)

You can access a few basic writing and editing features of the Microsoft Word app and view documents for free through the mobile app. However, to use the full version you need to log in with a Microsoft account and subscribe to Microsoft 365.

If you already have a Microsoft 365 subscription, all you need to do is download the app and log into your account to access your subscription features.

4. Google Docs

Pricing: Free 

Top feature: Ability to edit the document offline

The Google Docs mobile app is a great tool, allowing you to access synced documents from any device — including your iPhone or Android.

With a variety of design elements and writing features, Google Docs is optimized for both desktop and mobile use .

One of the key advantages of Google Docs is that you can use it to edit and share Microsoft Word documents as well. When creating a resume, this means you can utilize a Word template, upload the template to Google Docs, and then edit it from your mobile device without losing the formatting (although it doesn't work perfectly every time). 

Alternatively, the Google Docs app also has its own selection of 5 well-designed resume templates. These can later be customized to suit your preferences.

Key features you can take advantage of in the Google Docs mobile app include:

• Live collaboration and document editing
• Easy sharing and permission-granting features
• Many file export formats (.docx, .pdf, .odt, .rtf, .txt, etc.)
• Ability to work offline

Plus, if you choose to get a Google Workspace subscription, you can also gain access to unlimited version history, allowing you to track changes made from the document’s inception and return to earlier versions of the document as needed. 

The Google Docs mobile app is free to use but does require a Google account to access.

5. Quick Resume Pro

Pricing: Free (in-app purchases $0.99 - $99.99)

Top feature: Customizable resume sections

With basic and straightforward resume designs, Quick Resume Pro creates a resume for you automatically using your professional details. All you need to do is enter the information you want to be included and the app will get to work.

This app can be used on iPhones, iPads, and Android devices. However, a desktop version isn't currently available.

Being a solely mobile app, Quick Resume Pro has a very user-friendly interface and a 3D Touch function .

Other features you can access via Quick Resume Pro include:

• 7 PDF resume styles
• Resume copy-saving tools
• Dropbox, email, and printing capabilities
• Unlimited resumes to create and save

Quick Resume Pro also offers all of the typical resume sections every resume needs. These include your basic personal information, a job applicant profile, a job objective, education, experience, skills, languages, awards, and interests.

The app is free to download with premium features available as in-app purchases.

6. Resume Builder by Nobody

Available for: iOS

Pricing: Free (in-app purchases $2.99 - $29.99)

Top feature: Ability to create unlimited versions of your resume for free

Resume Builder by Nobody is available as both a desktop and a mobile app, but only for iOS.

This app offers you more than 20 different resume templates with customizable designs. The customizable elements of this app’s templates include colors, text size, line spacing, section spacing, and margins.

Plus, you can use the preview tool to ensure your resume looks great once printed.

Additional features offered by this app include:

• Assisted writing with subtle prompts
• A flexible resume editor tool
• Easy access to all resume sections 
• Cloud storage

With the free version of Resume Builder by Nobody, you receive one template, access to the Resume Editor tool, unlimited exports, and the ability to create unlimited versions of your resume.

For the upgraded version, you can pay monthly or make a one-time purchase for access to many great extra features. These include access to all templates, advanced customization, augmented reality previews, additional sections, photos, and more.

7. Resume Builder: PDF Resume App

Top feature: Professional resume writers are available to help within the app on-demand

Resume Builder: PDF Resume App is the mobile app offered by Resume.com.

Available for both iPhones and Androids, this app offers a library of more than 125 resume samples for specific jobs to help you get inspiration.

Plus, you receive in-app suggestions for how to optimize and perfect your resume from professional resume writers. These professionals are also available to help within the app on-demand.

Other essential features of Resume Builder: PDF Resume App include:

• Tailored resume suggestions and step-by-step instructions
• Professionally-designed templates
• Template customization
• Free PDF downloads
• No paywalls or third-party ads

Resume Builder: PDF Resume App is completely free to use with no in-app purchases.

8. Perfect Resume

Available for: iOS  

Top feature: Export your resume data as JSON or load from JSON

Developed by Tersacore, Perfect Resume is a newer resume-building app on the market available for iOS only. 

Though some minor tweaks are still required, the app is overall highly rated and is completely free to use.

You can add all the essential sections you need to your resume, including personal details, contact info, experience, degrees, courses, publications, skills, and languages.

Additional features you can access via Perfect Resume include:

• PDF files with custom metadata and configuration
• JSON export capabilities
• 20 different color schemes
• Privacy-focused policies with no data collection

However, to use Perfect Resume, you'll need to have iOS 15.0 or newer.

Top feature: Easily add images, movies, audio, tables, charts, and shapes.

Pages is Apple’s native app for word processing, document creation, and collaboration. Having said that, it's not available for Android.

Being Apple’s own product, Pages typically comes pre-downloaded on most Apple devices . This app can sync across different Apple devices as well, including the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Pages can also be used on a non-Apple PC when using iWork or iCloud.

Pages isn't solely a resume-building app. It's similar to Google Docs and Microsoft Word, as it offers various templates for all kinds of documents. The templates found in Pages are highly customizable and include a variety of design elements, colors, and formatting options.

Some of the advanced tools available through Pages include:

• Collaboration features, such as comments and threaded conversations
• Bookmarks for linking from one part of a document to another
• You can even draw and annotate using Apple Pencil on supported devices

On Pages, you can export your document as both a PDF file and a Word file, allowing you to open, view, and edit your document in Microsoft Word if needed.

10. LinkedIn

Available for: iOS & Android  

Pricing: Free (premium subscription from $29.99/month)

Top feature: Use your professional profile as an online resume

Though the LinkedIn mobile app isn't technically a full-service resume-building app, it does offer handy features for building an online resume on its platform.

This online resume can be used to apply to jobs directly through LinkedIn. As one of the top professionally-oriented social media platforms, LinkedIn is a great place to find employment opportunities.

Apart from filling out all the necessary information that employers seek on your LinkedIn profile, you can also have former employers and colleagues rate your skills, leave testimonials, and connect with people hiring in your industry.

Plus, having a LinkedIn profile to include in your contact information section on a resume can be very advantageous. 

Find out your resume score!

Key takeaways

Using a resume-building mobile app allows you to create a professional resume anywhere and at any time.

However, no matter which app you choose, it’s crucial to know how to write an effective resume that not only catches the eye but also ultimately lands you the job. 

To help you with that, we compiled expert resume guides to get you on the right track to create the perfect resume.

Klára Červeňanská

Klara recently graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she got an opportunity to write full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

Hungry for more?

How to write a professional resume summary [+examples], how to put your education on a resume [+examples], how to describe your work experience on a resume [+examples], let your resume do the work..

Join 5,000,000 job seekers worldwide and get hired faster with your best resume yet.

Q&A: How To Upload My Resume To My Phone?

You never know when you might find that perfect remote or work from home job to apply to, so it only makes sense to have a copy of your resume, or CV, stored on your phone.

But if you’ve saved that resume to your computer, then you might be wondering how you can get it saved to your cell phone.

Fortunately, this is really easy to do and only takes a couple of minutes of your time.

8 Ways To Upload & Save Your Resume On Your Phone

There’s more than one way to get that file on your phone, so I’ll give you a few options and you can choose the method that works best for you.

1. Microsoft Office 365

If you’ve created your resume in Microsoft Word, then you’ll probably want to use a Office 365 account to get your resume file onto your phone.

With Office 365, you’re able to use Microsoft Word from any device. That means that you can access it directly from your phone.

And since Office 365 defaults to saving your files to OneDrive, all you have to do is open it from your phone and then re-save it as a download to your phone.

If you’ve got an iCloud account, then you can first upload your resume to it.

And then, access your iCloud account on your phone and download the file to the phone.

Or, just leave the file in the iCloud until you need it downloaded onto your phone, or tablet.

The great thing about having a copy of your resume on iCloud is that you will be able to access it from any device that has an internet connection.

3. Google Drive

Just like with the iCloud, if you have a Google Drive account then you can use it to get a copy of your resume downloaded onto your phone.

All you need to do is first upload your resume file to your Google Drive account to save it there.

Once the file is saved in your Google Drive, you then need to download the Google Drive app to your phone, if you don’t already have it installed.

Then, open the Google Drive app and download the file to save onto your phone or tablet.

If you don’t have an iCloud or Google Drive account, then a Dropbox account is the next best thing.

To get started, you’ll need to download the Dropbox app to your phone.

And, you’ll need to upload your resume file from your computer to your Dropbox account.

Once the file is in your Dropbox account, you can use the app on your phone to open and access it at any time.

From there, you can easily download and save your resume file to your phone.

If you’re using an iPhone, then you can easily move your resume (or any other files) from your computer to your iPhone with iTunes.

All you need to do is connect your phone to your computer with your Apple USB cable and open iTunes (if it doesn’t open automatically). And select your phone to make sure that you can view it on the iTunes screen.

Now, look on the left sidebar of the iTune screen for “File Sharing” and click on it. This will bring a list of apps that you can share files to.

Click on the app that will open your file and then locate that file on your computer (via Finder for Mac users) and drag and drop it to the Documents area.

6. Resume Apps

Have you created your resume on a site that also has an app that you can install on your phone?

If so, you can use that app to easily access and download your full resume directly onto your phone, tablet, or other mobile device.

Some popular resume apps with this functionality include:

• Visual CV Resume Builder
• Resume Star
• Resume Maker
• Resume Builder
• My Resume Builder

An easy and foolproof method to get a copy of your resume saved onto your phone is with your own email account.

Just email yourself the resume as a file attachment from your computer.

Then, open that email on your phone and download the file attachment.

8. USB Cable (for Android phones)

If you’ve got an Android phone, then the easiest way to get your resume file from your computer and onto your Android phone is with a USB cable.

So, you need to connect your Android phone to your computer in order to do the file transfer.

This is a really easy method, but I think it’s best explained with the short video below.

And voila, you’ve got a copy of the file for your resume saved onto your phone.

Now you can easily apply to any online jobs from your phone and easily upload your resume to the application.

image credit: Pexels

Shawna got her start with side hustles in 2005 but didn’t become self-employed full-time until 2008, after working in the Finance departments for corporations such as Nissan USA and Warner Bros.

Similar Posts

Is $40,000 A Good Salary In 2024?

How To Become A Virtual Bookkeeper

7 Most Promising Jobs of the Future (Most In-Demand Careers In The Future)

How To View Saved Jobs On LinkedIn

How To Create Your Own Internship

Go to college or join the peace corps, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide

For most job-seekers, a good resume is what stands between a dream job and Choice D. Get your resume right, and you’ll be getting replies from every other company you apply to.

If your resume game is weak, though, you’ll end up sitting around for weeks, maybe even months, before you even get a single response.

So you’re probably wondering how you can write a resume that gets you an interview straight up.

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about how to make a resume, including:

• The 8 Essential Steps to Writing a Resume
• 11+ Exclusive Resume Tips to Up Your Resume Game
• 27+ Real-Life Resume Examples for Different Professions

….and more!

So, let’s dive right in.

How to Make a Resume (The Right Way!)

Before we go into detail about how you should make a resume, here’s a summary of the most important steps and tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a resume format carefully. In 99% of cases, we recommend the reverse-chronological format .
• Add the right contact details. Leave your headshot out and make sure to include your job title , a professional email address, and any relevant links. (E.g.: your LinkedIn profile , online portfolio, personal website, etc.).
• Write an impactful resume summary. Unless you’re an entry-level professional, always go for a resume summary. If you do it right, it’s your chance to get the hiring manager to go through the rest of your resume in detail.
• Pay attention to your work experience section. Take your work experience section from OK-ish to exceptional by tailoring it to the job ad, making your achievements quantifiable, and using action verbs and power words.
• Add the right skills for the job. Keep this section relevant by only including the hard and soft skills that are required for the position.
• Keep your education short and to the point. Your most recent and highest degree is more than enough for a strong education section. You only need to add more details here if you’re a recent graduate with barely any work experience.
• Leverage optional resume sections. Optional sections like languages, hobbies, certifications, independent projects, and others can set you apart from other candidates with similar skills and experience.
• Include a cover letter. That’s right, cover letters matter in 2024, and the best way to supplement your resume is by adding an equally well-crafted cover letter to your job application. To make the most of it, check out our detailed guide on how to write a cover letter .

To get the most out of our tips, you can head over to the resume builder and start building your resume on the go as you read this guide.

New to resume-making? Give our ‘7 Resume Tips’ video a watch before diving into the article!

#1. Pick the Right Resume Format

Before you start filling in the contents of your resume, you have to make sure it’s going to look good. 

After all, the first thing hiring managers notice is what your resume looks like, and then they start reading it. So, this is your best chance to make a great first impression.

Start by choosing the right resume format.

There are three types of resume formats out there:

• Reverse-chronological. This is by far the most popular resume format worldwide and, as such, it’s the best format for most job-seekers.
• Functional. This resume format focuses more on skills than work experience. It’s a good choice if you’re just getting started with your career and have little to no experience in the field.
• Combination. The combination resume format is a great choice for experienced job-seekers with a very diverse skill set. It’s useful if you’re applying for a role that requires expertise in several different fields and you want to show all that in your resume.

So, which one should you go for?

In 99% of cases, you want to stick to the reverse-chronological resume format . It’s the most popular format and what hiring managers expect to see. So, in the rest of this guide, we’re going to focus on teaching you how to make a reverse-chronological resume.

Fix Your Resume’s Layout

With formatting out of the way, let’s talk about your resume’s layout , which determines the overall look of your resume. 

Does it look organized or cluttered? Is it too short or too long? Is it boring and easy to ignore, or is it reader-friendly and attention-grabbing?

Here are some of the best practices you should apply:

• Stick to one page. You should only go for a two-page resume if you have decades of experience and you’re sure the extra space will add significant value. Hiring managers in big companies get hundreds of applications per job opening. They’re not going to spend their valuable time reading your life story!
• Add clear section headings. Pick a heading and use it for all the section headers so the hiring manager can easily navigate through your resume.
• Adjust the margins. Without the right amount of white space, your resume will end up looking overcrowded with information. Set your margins to one inch on all sides so your text fits just right on the page.
• Choose a professional font. We’d recommend sticking to a font that’s professional but not overused. For example, Ubuntu, Roboto, or Overpass. Avoid Times New Roman, and never use Comic Sans.
• Set the correct font size. As a rule of thumb, go for 11-12 pt for normal text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
• Use a PDF file. Always save your resume as a PDF file, unless the employer specifically requests otherwise. Word files are popular, but there’s a good chance they’ll mess up your resume’s formatting.

Another thing you need to consider in terms of your resume’s layout is whether you’re going for a traditional-looking resume template or something a bit more modern :

If you’re pursuing a career in a more traditional industry, like law , banking , or finance , you might want to stick to the first.

But if you’re applying to a tech company where imagination and innovation are valued, you can pick a more creative resume template .

Want to Save Time? Use a (Free) Resume Template

Anyone who’s ever tried creating a resume from scratch knows how boring the formatting can be.

Before you can even start filling in the contents, you need to tweak the margins, adjust font sizes, and make sure everything fits into one page while still looking good.

What if you could skip past all that and still create a compelling resume?

Try one of our free resume templates . They’re pre-formatted, so all you have to do is fill in the contents.

They’re also created in collaboration with recruiters from around the globe, ensuring that the templates are visually appealing and ATS-friendly!

See for yourself how one of our templates compares to a resume created in a standard text editor:

#2. Add Your Contact Information

Now that we’ve got all the formatting out of the way, let’s get into what your resume is all about— the information you put on it .

The first thing you want to do when filling out the contents of your resume is to add your contact information .

This section is pretty straightforward but crucial. Your contact details belong at the top of your resume in a designated resume header , so the hiring manager can easily find them.

Even if everything else about your resume is perfect, that all flops if you misspell your email address or have a typo in your phone number. If the hiring manager can’t contact you, it’s a missed opportunity.

So, double-check, and even triple-check your contact information section and make sure everything is factually correct and up-to-date.

Must-Have Information

• Full name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top of your resume.
• Email address. Stick to an address that’s professional and easy to spell, like a combination of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected])
• Phone number. Add a reliable number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country. If you plan to relocate for the job or want a remote position, specify it on your resume.

Optional Information

• Job title. Add your professional title underneath. Write it down word for word, whether it’s “Digital Marketing Specialist” or “Junior Data Scientist.” Just don’t make up job titles like “Marketing Wizzard” or “Data Manipulator.” They’re not quirky; they’re just unprofessional. 
• LinkedIn profile . We recommend that you include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile since over 77% of hiring managers use the platform when evaluating a candidate. 
• Relevant links. Include links to personal websites or any social media profiles that are relevant to your field. For example, a developer could include a Github profile, while a graphic designer could link their Behance or Driblle account, and so on.
• Date of birth. Unless this is specifically required in the job ad, the hiring manager doesn’t need to know how old you are. It’s not important for their decision-making, and at worst, it might lead to age-based discrimination.
• Unprofessional email address. Your quirky, old high school email address doesn’t belong on your resume. Instead of [email protected] , go for a [email protected] type of address.
• Headshot. (USA, UK or Ireland) Depending on the country where you’re applying, it might even be illegal to include a picture of yourself on your resume . While it’s the norm to include a picture in most of Europe and Asia, always check the regulations for each specific country or industry you’re applying to.

All clear? Good! Now, let’s look at what a great example of a resume's contact information section looks like:

#3. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)

It's no secret that recruiters spend an average of less than seven seconds on a resume .

When you receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications daily, it's physically impossible to spend too much time on each.

So, what the hiring managers do to go through resumes more effectively is to skim through each resume and read it in depth only if it piques their interest.

This is where the resume headline comes in.

Placed right next to (or underneath) your contact information, this brief paragraph is the first thing the hiring manager is going to read on your resume.

Now, depending on how far along in your career you are, your resume headline can be either a resume summary or a resume objective.

So, how do you choose between a resume summary and a resume objective? Here’s all you need to know:

Resume Summary

A resume summary, as the name suggests, is a two to three-sentence summary of your career so far. If done right, it shows that you’re a qualified candidate at a glance and gets the hiring manager to give you a chance.

Here’s what your resume summary should include:

• Your job title and years of experience.
• A couple of your greatest professional achievements or core responsibilities.
• Your most relevant skills for the job.

Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary: 

Experienced Java Developer with 5 years of experience in building scalable and efficient applications. Contributed to a major project that enhanced application performance by 25%. Strong background in Spring Framework and microservices. Aiming to apply robust coding skills to develop innovative software solutions at XYZ Tech Solutions.

Unless you’re a recent graduate or amid a career change, we recommend you stick to a resume summary. Otherwise, a resume objective might be a better option for you.

Resume Objective

A resume objective is supposed to express your professional goals and aspirations, academic background, and any relevant skills you may have for the job.

It communicates your motivation for getting into a new field, so it’s the go-to headline for recent graduates and those going through a career change. As with a resume summary, a resume objective should be brief—around two to four sentences long.

So, here’s what it would look like if you’re a student:

Hard-working recent graduate with a B.A. in Graphic Design from New York State University seeking new opportunities. 3+ years of practical experience working with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, creating illustrations and UX/UI design projects. Looking to grow as a designer and perfect my art at XYZ Design Studio.

Or, on the other hand, if you’re going through a career change, it might look more like this:

IT project manager with 5+ years of experience in software development. Managed a team of developers to create products for several industries, such as FinTech and HR tech. Looking to leverage my experience in managing outsourced products as a Product Owner at Company XYZ.

#4. Prioritize Your Work Experience

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

This is where you get to sell yourself and show off your previous accomplishments and responsibilities.

If you manage to master this section, you’ll know most of what’s there to know about how to make a resume.

There are plenty of good practices for writing your work experience . But before we dive into all the nits and grits, let's start with the basics.

The standard format for each work experience entry is as follows:

• Job title/position. Your job title goes on top of each work experience entry. When the hiring manager looks at your resume, you want them to know, at a glance, that you have relevant work experience for the job.
• Company name/location/description. Mention the name of the employer and the general location, such as the city and state/country where you worked. In some cases, you may also want to briefly describe the company, like when the organization isn’t particularly well-known.
• Dates employed. Add the approximate timeframe of your employment at each company. You don’t need to give exact dates since the standard format for this is mm/yyyy.
• Achievements and responsibilities. This is the core of each work experience entry. Depending on your field, you want to list either your achievements or responsibilities. List them in bullet points instead of paragraphs, so they’ll be easier to read.

Here’s a real-life example:

Your work experience entries should always be listed in reverse chronological order , starting with your most recent job and working your way back into the past.

Now that you know how to list your experience, we’re going to show you how to write about it in a way that makes you stand out from the competition, starting with: 

Are you a student with no work experience? We’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to writing a resume with no experience here.

Focus on Achievements Whenever Possible

One of the most common resume mistakes is only listing responsibilities in your work experience section.

Here’s the thing—in most cases, the hiring manager knows exactly what your job responsibilities are.

For example, if you’re a sales manager, your responsibilities would be:

• Reach out to potential clients over the phone or email.
• Maintain relationships with existing company clients and upsell relevant products.
• Tracking and reporting on leads in CRM.

Coincidentally, this is also the same list of responsibilities for every sales manager out there. So, 90% of all other resumes probably mention the same thing.

To stand out from the competition, you want to focus on writing achievements in your resume instead. These can be how you helped your previous company grow, reach quarterly quotas, and so on.

Let’s compare how responsibilities hold up next to achievements for the same job:

• Exceeded sales team KPIs by 30%+ for 3 months straight.
• Generated over $24,000 in sales in 1 month.
• Generated leads through cold-calling
• Managed existing company clients

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there just aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you’re a warehouse worker .

Your day-to-day responsibilities probably include:

• Loading, unloading, and setting up equipment daily.
• Packaging finished products and getting them ready for shipping.
• Assisting in opening and closing the warehouse.

In fields like this, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself through achievements, so it’s okay to stick to responsibilities instead. You can still make them shine by following the rest of our advice about listing your work experience.

Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you work in a warehouse. Your day-to-day responsibilities probably involve:

• Loading, unloading and setting up equipment on a daily basis.
• Package finished product and get it ready for shipping.
• Assist in opening and closing the warehouse.

In such fields, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself, so it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities instead.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Tailoring is what sets an amazing resume apart from an okay one.

Hiring managers don’t need to know about every single job you’ve ever worked at or every single skill that you have.

They only want to know about your jobs, experiences, or skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a job doing Google Ads, you don’t need to talk about your SEO internship from eight years ago.

By focusing your resume on whatever is important for the specific role, you’re a lot more likely to stand out and catch the hiring manager’s attention.

Let’s take a look at an example of a job ad:

As you can see, we’ve highlighted the most important requirements.

To tailor your resume accordingly, you just need to mention how you meet each of these requirements in your resume.

You can highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications in different parts of your resume, such as:

• In your resume summary, where you should recap your years of experience.
• Throughout your work experience section, where you should list achievements and responsibilities that reflect your social media marketing experience.
• In your education section, where you can let the hiring manager know you have the degree that they’re looking for.

Include the Right Amount of Work Experience

If you’ve got over a decade’s worth of work experience, you’re probably wondering whether all of it belongs on your resume. In most cases, you’d end up writing a novel if you listed everything you’ve ever done, and that’s not how long a resume should be .

If you’re new to the job market, on the other hand, you probably don’t have any experience, and you’re wondering what you could even add to this section.

So, here’s how much information your resume should include, depending on your level of experience:

• No experience. If you’re looking for your first job , you won’t have any work experience to fill this section with. So, you can either keep it empty and focus on all the other sections or fill it up with any experience gained in student organizations, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and other projects.
• Entry-level. List all your work experience so far. While some of it won’t be relevant, it can still show the hiring manager that you do have some actual work experience.
• Mid-level. Only mention relevant work experience to the position you’re applying for. There’s no need to waste space on jobs that aren’t related to what you’re after.
• Senior-level. List up to 15 years of relevant work experience, tops. If your most recent experience is as a marketing executive , the hiring manager doesn’t care how you started your career as a junior marketing specialist 23 years ago.

Consider Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software

Did you know that over 70% of resumes don’t even make it to the hiring manager ?

Most companies these days use ATS to evaluate hundreds of resumes instantaneously and automatically filter out the ones that don’t meet their criteria.

For example, if a resume doesn’t mention a specific skill or isn’t formatted correctly, the ATS will automatically reject it.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make an ATS-friendly resume .

Here are a couple of tips to help you get past those pesky robots:

• Stick to one page. Sometimes employers set a limit on how long a resume should be. This means that if your resume is longer than one page, it might get automatically disqualified.
• Incorporate keywords. Tailoring your resume to the job helps a ton with beating the ATS. Just carefully read the job description to find hints for what the ATS will be looking for. Then, whenever you find keywords related to your responsibilities and achievements, make sure to include them in your work experience section.
• Use an active voice. Passive voice is too vague and unclear, so make sure to use active voice as much as possible when describing your previous jobs. (E.g.: “Managed a team of ten people,” instead of “ A team of ten people was managed by me.” )
• Leverage powerful action words. Instead of starting each of your sentences with “was responsible for," make your work experience impactful by using words that can grab attention. Saying that you “spearheaded” or “facilitated” something sounds a lot more impressive than “helped.”

Want to make sure your resume formatting passes the ATS test? Choose one of our tried and tested ATS-friendly resume templates , and you’ll be good to go! 

#5. List Your Education

The next section on your resume is dedicated to your academic qualifications. Let’s start with the basics!

Here’s how you should format the education section on your resume :

• Program Name. Your major and degree type should be listed. (E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration” )
• University Name. Add the name of the institution. (E.g.: “New York State University” )
• Dates Attended. Use a mm/yyyy format for the dates you attended. (E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012” )
• Location. If your university is less well-known, you can also add the location. (E.g.: “Stockholm, Sweden” )
• GPA. Use the appropriate grading system for the country you’re applying to work in. (E.g.: In the USA, it would be “3.9 GPA” )
• Honors. Add any honors and distinctions you’ve been given. (E.g.: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude )
• Achievements. You can mention interesting papers you’ve written, projects you’ve done, or relevant coursework you’ve excelled in.
• Minor. “Minor in Psychology”

Pretty simple, right? Now let’s see what an education section looks like in practice:

This example includes all the necessary information, plus an eye-catching award and relevant classes this candidate has taken.

Resume Education Tips

Now that you know how to list your education on your resume, let’s take this section to the next level.

Just follow these expert tips:

• If you’re making a resume as a student and don’t have any work experience yet, you can list your education section at the beginning of the page instead of work experience.
• You can add your expected graduation date if you’re still pursuing your degree.
• If you already have relevant work experience, just keep this section short and sweet. Recent graduates can expand on their education more and add optional information like projects, classes, academic achievements, etc.
• Always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest degree on top. Your highest and most recent degree is usually enough, so if you have a Master’s degree that’s relevant to the job, there’s no need to mention your earlier degrees.
• Don’t add your high school degree to your resume if you already have a university degree. It doesn’t have as much weight, and you can use the space for something else.
• Only mention your GPA if you had an impressive academic career. Anything below a 3.5 GPA doesn’t need to be on your resume.

Are you in the process of applying for college? Check out our guide to writing a college application resume to wow that admissions officer!

#6. Emphasize Your Know-How in the Skills Section

After your work experience, your skills are the first thing the hiring manager is going to look for. In fact, together, work experience and skills make up 90% of the hiring decision .

So, this is the place where you want to mention all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job.

There are two types of skills you can include when writing your resume:

• Hard Skills. These are measurable abilities. What you can list here can be anything from coding in Python to knowing how to cook Thai cuisine.
• Soft Skills. Also known as personal skills, these are a mix of communication skills , personal traits, career attributes, and more. They can include leadership, critical thinking, and time management , just to name a few.

Your resume should always cover both hard skills and soft skills . Here’s an example in action:

Now, let’s discuss how you should list your most important skills on your resume.

There are a few essential steps you need to follow:

Always List Hard and Soft Skills Separately

Your resume should be easy and neat to navigate. The hiring manager shouldn’t have to waste time looking for a specific skill because you didn’t separate it into the appropriate subsection.

So, just create separate categories for your hard and soft skills.

Depending on your field, you could customize the name of your “hard skills” subsection to something like “technical skills," “marketing skills," or something else related to your field.

Let’s look at an example of what skills look like on a project manager’s resume :

Methodologies & Tools

• Agile Methodology
• SCRUM Framework
• Waterfall Project Management
• Microsoft Project
• Critical Path Method (CPM)
• Earned Value Management (EVM)
• Risk Management

Soft Skills

• Team Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Negotiation

Tailor Your Skills to the Job

You might have some awesome skills, but the hiring manager only needs to know about the ones that are relevant to the job.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as an accountant, your gourmet chef skills shouldn’t be on your resume.

Look at the job ad and list at least two to three essential skills you have that are required for the role. Remember—there’s no need to list every skill you have here; just keep it relevant.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Graphic Design or a related field.
• Tech-savvy, with some background in CMS systems such as WordPress.
• Thrives in a stressful environment and juggles multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Self-reliant, with the ability to manage their own work.
• A can-do attitude and an outside-the-box thinker.
• Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages.
• Basic understanding of Office software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

So, the must-have hard skills here are Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages. Other good computer skills to have are WordPress or similar CMS systems.

While you can also mention Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, it’s pretty much assumed that you know how to use them since they’re required for most office jobs.

List Hard Skills with Experience Levels

For each hard skill you list on your resume, you should also mention your proficiency level. This tells employers what they can expect from you and how much training you might need.

• Beginner. You have some experience with the skill, whether it’s from some entry-level practice or classroom education.
• Intermediate. You’ve used the skill in a work environment with good understanding.
• Advanced. You’re the go-to person for this skill in your office. You can coach other employees, and you understand the skill at a high level.
• Expert. You’ve applied this skill to more than a handful of different projects and organizations. You’re the go-to person for advice about the skill, not just in your office but even amongst some of the best professionals in your field.

Just make sure to never lie about your actual skill level. Even if you get the job, once you need those skills you exaggerated, it will be pretty awkward for both you and your employer.

Include Transferable Skills

These are the types of skills that are useful for almost any job out there.

Transferable skills can be both soft skills (e.g.: teamwork, creativity, problem-solving skills, and others) and hard skills (MS Office Suite, HTML, writing, etc.)

Whatever job you’re applying to, chances are you have transferable skills from your experience that can come in handy one way or another. So, feel free to include them, even if they’re not specifically required for the position.

Not sure which skills to mention on your resume for your specific field? Check out our list of 101+ essential skills for inspiration!

#7. Leverage Optional Resume Sections

The sections we’ve covered so far are must-haves for any resume. They’re the bread-and-butter for any job application, and if you get them right, you’ll land any job you apply to.

But if you have some leftover space, there are a few optional sections you can choose from to give your resume a boost!

Are you bi-lingual? Or even better  – multi-lingual? You should always mention that on your resume!

Even if the position doesn’t require you to know a specific language, it can still come in handy at some point. At the end of the day, it’s always better to know more languages than less.

To list languages in your resume , just write them down and assign them the appropriate level:

• Intermediate

You can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.

As a given, you should never lie about your language skills. You never know—your interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language or even be a native speaker!

Hobbies and Interests

If you want to spice up your resume, hobbies and interests could be just what you need.

While this section isn’t a game-changer, it can help the hiring manager see who you are as an individual.

For example, if you listed “teamwork” as one of your skills, hobbies like team sports can back up your claim.

And who knows? Maybe you and your interviewer have some hobbies or interests in common!

Volunteering Experience

If you’re the type of person who devotes their free time to helping others while expecting nothing in return, chances are that you’re the type of employee who’s in it for more than just the money. 

Seeing volunteer experience on your resume tells hiring managers that you’re a loyal employee who’s after something meaningful.

Several studies show that listing your volunteer experience can boost your chances of getting hired, especially if you have little to no work experience.

Certifications

Hiring managers love candidates who invest in themselves, and that’s exactly what they see when you list certifications on your resume .

If you value continuous learning and strive to expand your skill set, that’s always a plus.

Certifications can also show employers how much expertise you have.

For example, if you’re a Microsoft Cloud Engineer and you specialize in Microsoft Technologies, you should definitely include all essential certifications on your resume, such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert one.

Awards and Recognitions

There’s no harm in showing off a little on your resume. After all, you want to be a candidate that shines above the rest.

So, if you’ve received any awards or recognitions that make you stand out in your field, make sure to add them.

For example, if you’ve been recognized for your contributions to data science or received a hard-to-come-by scholarship , mention it in your resume. Just keep your entries here relevant to the field you’re applying to.

Publications

Whether you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic, publications are always impressive.

If you have any published works (online or in an academic journal), you can add them to your resume. Just make sure to include a link so the hiring manager knows where to check your work!

Are you looking for a career in academia? Check out our guide to writing the perfect academic CV to get started!

Working on side projects can show off your passion for your field. Whether they’re university class projects or part-time entrepreneurial endeavors, they’re relevant.

For example, if you worked on a mock software product as part of a university competition, it shows you went through every step of product creation, from ideation to creating a marketing strategy.

This project also shows off your organizational skills , and if you mention it in your resume, you stand a better chance of landing the job you had your sights set on.

But projects can also be personal, not academic. For example, you might manage an Etsy store where you sell hand-made arts and crafts to customers online. This is a great opportunity to highlight your creativity, management, and customer service skills .

Overall, hiring managers love employees who do cool work in their free time, so projects are always a great section to add to your resume.

Looking to kickstart your career? Check out our guide on how to get an internship for useful tips and real-life examples!

Extracurricular Activities

Every college freshman knows that extracurricular experience can make a difference in their application.

Especially if you don’t have a lot of experience outside of school, extracurricular activities are a great way to show potential employers your skills and give them insight into you as a person. Different clubs and after-school projects can help you gain real-life skills and considerably increase your chances of landing your first job after college.

For example, joining a student government organization can hone your leadership skills and teach you how to work as part of a team.

For example, if you’re part of a student government or public speaking club, these activities can help you hone your leadership and presentation skills.

11+ Expert Resume Tips

You’ve got the gist of how to make a resume. Now, it’s time to make it really stand out from the crowd!

Follow these exclusive resume tips to take your resume game to the next level:

• Match the professional title underneath your name to the job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Mention any promotions from your previous jobs. Use the work experience entries for them to focus on the achievements that helped you earn them.
• Describe your achievements using Laszlo Bock’s formula : accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z . This way, your work experience can go the extra mile and show the hiring manager what you can bring to the table.
• Always list your achievements and responsibilities in concise bullet points. This makes your resume more reader-friendly, and it’s more likely that the hiring manager will see your impressive achievements at a glance.
• Don’t use personal pronouns like “I” or “me,” and don’t refer to yourself by name. Stick to a slightly altered third person, like “managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.” instead of “he managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.”
• Name your resume sections correctly, or it might get rejected by the ATS. Swapping out quirky names like “career history” or “expertise” for “work experience” and "skills" makes it easier for the hiring manager to find what they’re looking for, too.
• Prioritize important keywords instead of adding all of them. Make sure the relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences you add all make sense in context, too. Your goal is to get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.
• Focus on transferable skills if you don’t have a lot of relevant work experience. Any extracurricular activities or personal projects can help you stand out here.
• Add a strategic pop of color to headings, bullet points, or key elements you want to highlight. It can help your resume stand out, but don’t overdo it—you want the information to be more impressive than the color palette.
• Don’t include the line “references available upon request.” Hiring managers already know they can request a list of references from you, so there’s no need to waste valuable space on it.
• Make sure your resume is optimized for mobile viewing. Most hiring managers use their mobile phones as often as desktop computers, so save your resume to a PDF file and make sure your formatting stays intact across any device.
• Rename the resume file you plan to send so it includes your name and the name of the position you’re applying for. It’s a small detail that can turn into a crucial mistake if you forget it.
• Read your resume out loud when you’re done. This is a great way to catch awkward phrases or spelling mistakes you might have missed otherwise.
• Use a tool like DocSend to track your resume. You’ll get a notification any time someone opens your resume, and you can see how long they spend reading it.

FREE Resume Checklist

Are you already done with your resume? Let’s see how it holds up!

Go through our checklist for perfecting your resume and see where you stand!

If you missed some points, just go through your resume one more time and perfect it.

And if you ☑’d everything—congrats! You’ve learned all there is to know about writing a resume, and you’re good to go with your job search.

Need to write a CV instead of a resume? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a CV with dozens of examples!

9 Resume Templates for Different Industries

Looking to create an effective resume without dealing with the formatting hassle? Just choose one of the templates below.

#1. Traditional Resume Template

Good for traditional industries like finance, banking, law, and manufacturing.

#2. Modern Resume Template

Good for both contemporary and forward-looking industries, including entrepreneurship, medical technology, and engineering.

#3. Creative Resume Template

Good for creative industries, including entertainment, design, and architecture. 

#4. Minimalistic Resume Template

Good for experienced professionals in basically any industry who want to let their achievements do the talking. 

#5. IT Resume Template

Good for any IT-related profession like software development, cyber security, and DevOps engineering.

#6. Tech Resume Template

Good for the tech industry and everything it encompasses.

#7. College Resume Template

Good for college students and recent graduates alike.

#8. General Resume Template

Good for multiple industries, including HR, education, and customer service.

#9. Executive Resume Template

Good for senior professionals across different industries, including hospitality, marketing, and logistics.

17+ Resumes for Different Jobs

Knowing how to write a resume is one thing, but making a resume that stands out is something entirely different. Without inspiration, even top career experts might stumble on a roadblock or two.

Check out the following effective resume examples for specific jobs to get a better sense of what a good resume looks like:

#1. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example

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

#2. Data Scientist Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a data scientist resume here.

#3. Business Analyst Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business analyst resume here.

#4. Digital Marketing Resume Example

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

#5. Software Engineer Resume Example

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

#6. Construction Project Manager Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a construction project manager resume here.

#7. Customer Service Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a customer service resume here.

#8. High School Resume Example

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

#9. Student Resume Example

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

#10. Server Resume Example

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

#11. Actor Resume Example

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

#12. Web Developer Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a web developer resume here.

#13. Engineering Resume Example

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

#14. Computer Science Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a computer science resume here.

#15. Architect Resume Example 

Check out our full guide to writing a data analyst resume here.

#17. Remote Job Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a remote job resume here.

#18. Sales Associate Resume Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales associate resume here.

#19. Receptionist Resume Example

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

Want to see more examples? Check out our compilation of 80+ resume examples for different fields .

• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Bartender Resume
• DevOps Engineer Resume
• Executive Assistant Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume
• Graphic Designer Resume
• Paralegal Resume
• Pharmacist Resume
• Recruiter Resume
• Supervisor Resume

Next Steps After Your Resume

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about how to make a resume, it’s time to talk about the rest of your job application.

After all, your resume is only the first step in your job search. To land the job you deserve, you also need to write a captivating cover letter and ace that upcoming interview. Here’s how:

#1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter

The companion piece to every resume is the cover letter.

Most job-seekers flinch when they hear that they have to write a cover letter. What do you even mention in a cover letter, anyway? If you were good at writing cover letters, you’d be applying for a job as a writer !

In reality, though, writing a cover letter is very simple once you know its purpose.

Think of your cover letter as a direct message to the hiring manager. It’s your chance to briefly explain why you’re such an awesome fit for the position. And with a few cover letter tips to point you in the right direction, you’ll write the perfect cover letter for your job application.

Just follow this structure:

• Add the contact details. Include the same contact information as on your resume, plus additional contact details for the hiring manager, including their name, job title, the company’s name, and location.
• Introduce yourself. Start your cover letter by mentioning who you are, what your work experience is, and why you’re interested in the position. Mention a standout achievement or two, relevant skills, and what you’d like to do for the company you’re applying for.
• Explain why you’d excel at the job. Find the requirements in the job ad that you meet, and elaborate on how you fulfill the most important ones. Research the company so you know what you like about it, and mention it in your cover letter. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the job and confidence that you’ll be a great fit for their team.
• Wrap it up politely. Conclude your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and thanking the hiring manager for their time. Then add a call to action, such as “Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application in greater detail.” Then, add a closing line and follow it with your full name.

Sounds easy, right? Here’s a real-life example to drive the point home:

Do you need more help perfecting your cover letter? Learn what the most common cover letter mistakes are and check out cover letter examples for all professions here.

#2. How to Ace Your Next Interview

Once you’ve perfected both your resume and cover letter, there’s only one thing left.

It’s time for the final step—the dreaded job interview.

Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, you probably hate the interviewing process. No matter how experienced you are, it can be nerve-wracking. Sitting there while someone’s prodding into your past experiences and judging you isn’t fun.

But did you know that most interviewers ask the same questions?

That’s right—all you have to do is learn how to answer some of the most common interview questions, and you’ll be an interview away from landing your dream job!

Just check out our complete guide to the 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers and learn how to ace your next interview.

FAQs on How to Make a Resume

Do you still have some questions about making a resume? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!

#1. What does a good resume look like in 2024?

For your resume to look good in 2024, make sure it’s organized and clean and isn’t longer than one page.

Be sure to include information that adds value to your application—leave out the focus on your relevant work experience and skills that you can back up, and list as many achievements as possible. 

If you’re using a resume template, choose one based on your industry. Conservative industries like law, banking, and business require more traditional resume templates. But if you’re going for an industry like design, architecture, or marketing, you can go for a creative resume template . 

Remote work is also big in 2024, so if that’s what you’re after, tailor your resume to match the job you want.

#2. How do you make a resume in Word?

The best way to create a resume in Word is to use a pre-designed Microsoft Word template. To access them, you should: 

• Open MS Word
• Click “file” from the menu bar 
• Select “new”
• Type “resume templates” in the search bar 

That said, Word resume templates are generic, hard to personalize, and overall not very stylish.

Want a resume that looks good and is extremely easy to make? Check out resume templates to get started!

#3. How do I write a resume for my first job?

If you’re writing your first-ever resume for an entry-level position, the hiring manager won’t expect you to have any work experience.

However, you can make up for your lack of experience with your skills and academic achievements.

For example, you can take advantage of extracurricular activities, internships, volunteering experiences, and other non-professional experiences. You can use them to highlight the skills you’ve gained and what you’ve achieved so far.

So, your first job resume should have a resume objective, emphasize your education, and replace your work experience with any internships, volunteering, independent projects, or other experiences.

#4. How to make a resume on Google Docs?

You can make a resume on Google Docs by choosing one of their templates and filling it in on the go.

All you have to do is go to your Google Drive’s template gallery, choose your preferred template, fill in your information, and your Google Docs resume is ready to go! 

That said, Google Docs templates aren’t the most user-friendly choice. You don’t have much flexibility with the layout and formatting isn’t that easy. For example, you tweak a section to the slightest, and the whole resume becomes a mess.

If you want an easier option, check out our resume builder !

#5. What kind of resume do employers prefer?

Typically, employers prefer one-page-long resumes that follow the reverse chronological format. 

Hiring managers receive hundreds of resumes every day, so they don't have the time to read three-page resumes. Try one of our one-page resume templates so you don’t go over the recommended resume length.

Meanwhile, the reverse-chronological format is the most popular because it draws attention to your most recent jobs and professional achievements, which is the #1 most important thing hiring managers look at when evaluating a resume.

#6. How many jobs should you put on your resume? 

You should only include relevant job positions on your resume.

This means that your work experience section should be tailored to the job you are applying for. If you’ve worked five different jobs and they can all add value to your current application, then you should include all five. 

If, on the other hand, you’re applying for, say, a customer service position and some of your past jobs don’t have anything to do with customer service, you should skip them.

#7. Should I put my address on my resume? 

You can put your location (city, state, or country) on your resume, but you don’t need to put your entire physical address.

Putting a physical address on a resume was the norm back when companies would contact you via mail. In today’s world, everyone communicates via email, which is why adding a correct and professional email address to your contact information section is far more important than putting your physical address. 

So, just include your location or-–if you’re a remote worker—specify you prefer to work remotely by writing “working remotely from [location].”

#8. What information should I leave out of my resume?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t include your birthday or your headshot on your resume. This norm varies from country to country but it applies to the USA, Canada, and UK.

If you have plenty of achievements to list under your work experience, then you can leave your basic work responsibilities out of your resume. 

In your education section, you should only include your highest and most recent degree. So, if you hold a Ph.D., you can list that and your Master’s degree and leave your Bachelor’s degree and high school diploma out.

Finally, leave out any skills that aren’t relevant to the job you’re applying for.

#9. Is a resume a CV?

Depending on where you are, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a resume might be completely different things.

In most of the world, though, including Europe and Asia, they are used interchangeably for the same document. Both CVs and resumes are one to two pages long, and list skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Sometimes more detailed resumes that go over one page are referred to as CVs. These are typically only used by senior professionals, executives, CEOs, etc.

In the USA, however, a CV is a completely different document. Typically, CVs are detailed and comprehensive documents that highlight your entire academic and professional history. They’re often used for academic, scientific, or research positions, which is why this type of CV can also be referred to as an academic CV.

You can create your CV using one of our CV templates !

#10. Should I write my own resume?

Yes, you should always write your own resume.

Your resume is your opportunity to show the hiring manager your communication, writing, and presentation skills . Employers also evaluate you based on how effectively you can convey information about yourself, and there’s no one that can represent you better than yourself.

Writing your own resume lets you introduce yourself authentically. You have the best understanding of your skills and experiences, and you can personalize them to make your resume stand out.

And, as a bonus, the experience of writing your resume yourself can be reflective and insightful, so it might help you understand your professional journey and career goals better.

#11. Can a resume be two pages?

Generally, we strongly recommend that your resume stick to one page.

Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, and keeping your resume to one page increases the odds that they’ll see your qualifications faster.

In some cases, like when you have a lot of relevant experience, your resume can go over two pages. But this exception is reserved for senior professionals with over a decade of relevant experience and tons of skills and achievements that simply can’t fit on one page.

#12. Is a simple resume okay?

Absolutely, a simple resume is often more than okay—it's preferable.

Before your resume even gets to the hiring manager, a complicated layout could get it rejected by the applicant tracking system (ATS). A simple resume template can help get your application straight to the hiring manager.

A clean layout can also make sure that your resume is easily readable and looks professional. This can focus the hiring manager's attention on your work experience and skills without excessive clutter or flashy colors to distract them.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

If you’ve followed all of our advice until now, congrats! You’re probably an expert on how to make a resume.

To recap, let’s go through some of the most important lessons we’ve learned so far...

• Use the right resume builder to make the process as smooth as possible. You don’t want to mess around with formatting for hours before even starting to work on your resume!
• Focus on your achievements over responsibilities. This can help you stand out from all the other applicants, especially if you back your claims up with data.
• Include all the must-have sections, like the resume summary, work experience, education, and skills. Then leverage optional sections if you have leftover space.
• Tailor your resume for the job you’re applying for. Everything listed on your resume should be relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, and you should write a new resume for every new job application.
• Take the time to perfect your cover letter. It’s just as important as your resume, so make sure you pay as much attention to it!

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

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

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

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

What Is a Resume?

What are employers looking for in a resume.

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

What Are Some Examples of a Good Resume?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Do You Write a Resume?

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

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

1. Pick Your Format

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Start With Your Basic Information

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

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

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

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

3. Add in Your Work Experience

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

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

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

For example, you might write:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Consider Including Volunteer Work or Other Experience

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

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

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

5. Don’t Forget Your Education

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

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

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

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

6. Top It Off With Some Skills and Interests

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

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

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

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

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

7. Write a Resume Summary Statement (if Relevant)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Edit and Refine It

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Most Popular: A Reverse Chronological Resume

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

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

Download an Example Chronological Resume for a Software Engineer

The Unorthodox Route: A Functional or Skills-Based Resume

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

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

Download an Example Functional Resume for a Project Manager

The Creative Angle: An Infographic Resume or Resume Website

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

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

Download an Example Infographic Resume for a Designer

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

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

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

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

Search form

Make a Gift

Department of Economics

• Undergraduate

18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

This site uses cookies.

We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. For more information on what this means and how we use your data, please see our Privacy Policy .

Writing Your Resume After Age 50: A Guide for Older Adults

A growing number of older adults are delaying retirement in favor of working longer. In 1985, just 10% of those over age 65 were either actively working or searching for a job. As of 2019, that percentage has doubled. 1 This trend is expected to continue as more older Americans look to improve their financial security and stay active and engaged in their communities.

Having a strong resume is important for older job seekers

Compared to their younger counterparts, older adults can face more barriers to finding gainful employment. Ageism is one of them. While you may know you have what it takes to perform a job, some employers still believe mature workers are “overqualified” or lacking contemporary skills. Combating these stereotypes starts with having a thoughtfully crafted, up-to-date resume.

Throughout the hiring process, employers rely on your resume to learn more about you and determine whether you’re a good fit for their organization. It’s a golden opportunity to highlight your qualifications, attributes, and relevant experience. A professional resume should always include these key pieces of information:

• Full name and contact information (phone and email)
• Professional summary (formerly known as the “objective”)
• Work experience and history
• Applicable skills
• Educational background

Wondering how to write a resume at 50+ years old? Use the strategies below to create one that increases your odds of landing a job interview .

9 resume tips for mature workers

1. Choose the right resume format.

What is the best resume format for older workers? There are three main types:

• Chronological: This format focuses on your work history, which is presented in chronological order with your most recent employment at the top.
• Functional: This option focuses more on your relevant skills versus your work history.
• Hybrid: This approach combines certain elements of the chronological and functional resume formats to create the ideal professional profile.

In most cases, older workers should stick to the tried-and-true chronological format. This allows you to display your years of experience—your leg-up over younger candidates. However, if you've been out of the workforce for a long time, a functional resume will allow you to keep the focus on your skills rather than any gaps in your work history.

No matter which format you go with, try to keep your resume to one or two pages . Browse this library of resume examples across different industries to get started.

2. Limit your work history to 10 to 15 years.

As an older job seeker, there's no need to share your entire work history. Include only those positions most meaningful to the job you're applying for, held during the last 10 to 15 years. If there are major achievements you want to highlight that extend beyond that timeframe, Indeed.com recommends adding an " Early Career " section. This section should not feature specific dates of employment.

3. Don’t include graduation dates.

In the same token, leave graduation dates out of your education section. List only the degrees you hold (with the most advanced degrees first), schools you attended, and any recent training or certifications. This can help reduce the chances of age discrimination while still playing up your credentials.

4. Make the most of your professional summary.

Once called the “objective,” the professional summary is an introductory paragraph on your resume that highlights your biggest skills and achievements. If you have a solid work history, this is your chance to shine! Be sure to include any industry credentials you have and what essential skills, experience, and attributes you bring to the table. Avoid industry jargon that may not resonate with younger hiring managers. And don’t include specifics related to your years of experience (for example, "25 years").

5. Emphasize your technology skills.

A common misconception about older adults is that they haven't kept in step with technological advancements. You can remedy this by adding a section to your resume that highlights your experience and comfort with modern software and platforms (such as Microsoft Excel or PowerPoint). If a job you're applying to mentions a technology you're proficient in, make sure you include it in the experience or skills section of your resume. Steer clear of listing any outdated technologies.

6. Use a modern font (typeface style).

Using certain fonts on your resume can instantly tip off employers that you're an older job seeker. Stay away from serif fonts such as Times New Roman—these do not translate well to a computer screen and are rarely used in business today. Plus, serif fonts are difficult for applicant tracking systems to read, which means your resume may never land on the desk of a real person. Instead, stick to smoother, sans-serif fonts such as Arial and Geneva. A size 12 font is the standard size and will make your resume easy to read.

7. Include a healthy dose of action verbs.

Using action verbs can help you create a more compelling resume that stands out to potential employers. They're especially valuable when describing your work experiences and accomplishments. Examples of resume-boosting action verbs include:

• Collaborated

8. Tailor your resume to each new job opportunity.

Keep in mind you’ll want to modify your resume for each job listing. Why is this important for older job seekers? It gives you a chance to highlight the skills most relevant to the role you're applying to. You can also feature keywords that make your resume stand out to hiring managers who have specific skills on their wish list. Constantly tweaking your resume can be labor-intensive, but it’s well-worth the time and effort.

9. Show you’re connected by sharing your LinkedIn profile.

As an older worker, you want to show employers you're current with the latest communication technologies. One way to do this is by including a link to your new or updated LinkedIn profile on your resume. LinkedIn is a powerful platform for creating and promoting your "personal brand." Think of it as your online resume. The guidelines above still apply—but here are some additional suggestions for age-proofing your digital calling card:

• Use a recent photo for your profile: Avoid using an outdated photograph where you look younger; it’s better to be transparent about your age. Use a professional headshot if possible, but otherwise, a DIY headshot is fine (remember to smile!). Avoid distracting backgrounds—such as a messy home office—and wear interview-appropriate attire .
• Include keywords in your headline: Use language pulled directly from the job descriptions you're responding to. Be sure to stick with current terms (for example, "proficiency in Microsoft Word" versus "word processing skills").
• Use first-person language in your summary (“About” section): This simple practice can help modernize your LinkedIn profile and create a more personal connection with the people who view it.
• Include volunteer leadership positions and other accomplishments: These are areas where your age can be a true asset. Don't be shy about noting any high-level volunteer roles, awards, or honors that relate to the type of position you seek.
• Collect recommendations: LinkedIn recommendations are written testimonials from other members who know your professional worth firsthand (such as a former colleague or supervisor). You can get recommendations simply by requesting them from your LinkedIn connections. Giving recommendations to others can often encourage them to return the favor.

New to LinkedIn? Here’s a simple tutorial to help you sign up and create your profile.

Are you an older worker who needs help finding a job?

Searching for a new job? Or returning to work after a break? NCOA recently launched its new employment tool,  Job Skills CheckUp , to help older adults get tips on how to succeed as a mature worker.  All you have to do is tell us about your goals, describe your current employment situation, and the Job Skills CheckUp will create a personalized plan to help you find job openings, build a professional network, prepare for job interviews, and more.

In addition,  the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is here to help. Created in 1965, SCSEP is America’s oldest program to help older adults with low income find work. It matches eligible applicants (age 55+) with paid, part-time training assignments for nonprofit organizations.

To apply, find your local SCSEP office and complete an application. If you’re eligible for the program and there is no waiting list, you will be enrolled to train at a non-profit organization in your community.

1. Older Americans in the Workforce, United Income. Found on the internet at http://www.advancingstates.org/sites/nasuad/files/United_Income_Older_Americans_in_the_Workforce.pdf

Funding for This Program Made Possible By Our Partner

Get Help to Land the Job You Love

Searching for a new job? Or returning to work after a break? Get tips on how to succeed in your career and make a plan to get there with NCOA's Job Skills CheckUp.

Related Articles

Get more money from social security: 7 tips to max out your benefits, 5 simple ways to build your retirement confidence, debunking the top 6 financial myths about retirement, matching contributions 101: how to maximize your retirement savings now.

How to Transition into Phased Retirement: Your Financial Plan A and Plan B

14 Steps to Get Ready for Retirement

Get NCOA in Your Inbox

Choose where we'll send you resources to support your health and financial well-being. Select an option(s) below that best describes you to get communication that matches your interests.