things to put in your resume profile

How to Write a Convincing Resume Profile [+23 Examples]

On average, a recruiter looks at your resume for around 6 seconds. 

Yep, that’s right - they give your CV a quick skim, and if they don’t find what they’re looking for, they just move on to the next one.

Think fast!

How can you convince the recruiter to read your resume, the same instant they look at it?

The answer is simple: you should create a resume profile.

And in this guide, we’re going to teach you how, exactly, you can do that.

• What a resume profile is and why it’s important
• How to create an effective resume profile in 3 easy steps
• 26 practical resume profile examples

How to Write a Resume Profile (Step-by-Step)

OK, let's start with the obvious - what even is a Resume Profile?

The resume profile is a short,3-5 sentence paragraph that summarizes your career. It covers your top achievements, skills, and years of experience. 

The resume profile is also known as a resume summary and resume profile statement.

Here’s what a resume profile looks like on a resume:

Now, let’s talk about why you should include a resume profile:

• It shows the recruiter that you’re relevant from the get-go, giving them a reason to read the rest of your resume.
• It helps you stand out. You don’t just show the recruiter that you’re relevant - you show them that you’re THE right candidate.

And here's an example of a well-written Resume Profile:

Customer Service Team Lead with three years of experience in a multicultural BPO environment. Specialized in the creation & monitoring of KPIs, compliance with SLAs and being the main POC for all key internal and external stakeholders. Looking to transfer process management and performance quality control skills into the exciting position as Quality, Control and Compliance Specialist at XYZ Ltd.

Keep in mind, though, that a resume profile is different from a resume objective.

• The resume profile summarizes your work experience to date and your relevant skills and achievements.
• The objective , on the other hand, is more about your professional goals. You DON’T include work experience here. Instead, you focus more on why you want to work at company X, and how your background makes you the right fit.

So, if you don’t have much relevant work experience (recent graduate, career change, etc.), you should opt for a resume objective instead.

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, here's a thorough Step-by-Step on how to build YOUR resume profile:

Step #1 - Tailor Your Resume Profile to the Position

The first thing to do is to tailor your resume profile to the position you're applying for. 

You can’t just take the lazy way out and create a one-size-fits-all resume profile. That way, you’re pretty much setting yourself up for failure.

Instead, it should 100% be written with the job you’re applying for in mind.

When writing your resume profile: 

• Look at the job ad you want to apply to;
• See the requirements;
• Tailor your profile accordingly.

Now, here’s what this looks like in practice. Let's say you're applying for a position in digital marketing.

• 1 - 3 years of experience with Google Ads
• Experience with Facebook Ads
• Excellent copywriting skills
• Experience using Google Tag Manager and Google Data Studio is an advantage

We highlighted all the must-have requirements with Bold and underlined what’s optional.

Now, let’s create the right resume profile for the job:

Google Ads Specialist with 2 years of experience in the creation and management of Google search, display and video ads. Six-month-long project experience with social media marketing. Highly skilled with Google Search, Facebook Ads Manager, and Google Tag Manager. Experienced in creating project reports for clients with Google Data Studio.

Step #2 - Mention Your Top Wins

Now let's look at what you CAN and CAN'T include in your resume profile.

DO's - Relevant :

• Top skills;
• Problems solved;
• Key achievements;
• Awards won;
• Anything that is irrelevant to the job applied for, no matter how big the achievement, how top the skill or how much effort you put into winning that award.

Now, let’s cover a practical example.

Let’s say that 2 candidates are applying for a Junior Javascript Developer position.

Here’s a resume profile done right:

• Recent Computer Science graduate with hands-on experience. Took part in 6-month-long Agile development process project, working with: JavaScript, HTML5, CSS3, Ajax, Rest, XML, Angular 2+ and jQuery. Completed “The Complete JavaScript Course 2019: Build Real Projects” course from Udemy. PMP Agile Certified Practitioner.
• Recent Computer Science graduate with 6 months of experience with JavaScript. Currently ongoing Master’s in Photography. Certified lifeguard and professional football player. Freelance writer with over 200,000 regular monthly readers.

See the difference between the two? The first is 100%, completely focused on the role.

The second, well, not so much.

Which one would you call in for an interview? Exactly!

Step #3 - Focus on Achievements (Instead of Responsibilities)

And last but not least – focus on achievements. 

Your resume profile should be a summary of the biggest wins in your career (not a list of things you’ve done).

Your goal here is to “Wow” the recruiter, not to get them saying “Oh, well, that’s OK, I guess.”

So for example, let’s see how this is NOT done

• Seasoned recruiter with experience in publishing job ads, sourcing candidates, and conducting interviews.

See the issue here? Anyone that’s into recruitment can say they’ve done this. You’re not saying anything special.

Now, what if we turn this example into an achievement:

• Seasoned recruiter with X+ years of experience in tech hiring. Hit and exceeded hiring KPIs by over 50% for 2019’s first and third quarter. Specialized in working with senior talent in software engineering and executive management.

See the difference? The first example is a very generic candidate, while the second is a high-achiever.

In some fields, you might not have a lot of achievements to mention - and that’s totally OK.

If you’re a cashier, for example, you can’t say that “you’ve processed over 1,000 transactions per month.”

In such cases, it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities and experiences instead!

[Bonus] The Novorésumé Formula for Writing Resume Profiles

Having some difficulties with your resume profile?

• [Your Field] professional with X+ years of experience, skilled in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. Looking to apply my [Domain] knowledge as a [Job You’re Applying For] at [Company X]. Experience in [Top Achievement #1] and [Top Achievement #2].

Now, here’s what the template looks like when put into practice:

UX / UI Designer with 5+ years of experienced, skilled in Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop. Looking to apply my software design know-how as a lead UX designer at Company X. Previous experience in designing most of [Software Startup A] and [Software Startup B]’s software UX and UI.

Resume Profile Q&A

Still have some questions on how to polish up your resume profile? We’ve got you covered:

Q: How do I list a resume profile as a student ?

A: Simple! Go for a resume objective, instead of a profile. In that case, you’ll focus more on your skills and goals instead of work experience.

Don’t forget to specify where and how you got those skills. No need to go into in-depth explanations, but make sure they sound realistic and avoid vagueness at all costs.

Still have some space left? Feel free to add relevant university projects you’ve completed. 

Soon-to-be graduate from XYZ University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. 4.0 GPA in Experimental Psychology. Took part in a month-long internship at the university psych lab. Excelled at psych questionnaire development and implementation, and SPSS data analysis. Excited to transfer and develop skills further as a Junior Psychological Measurement Specialist at ABC Ltd.

Are you struggling with creating your first student resume? Check out our guide on how to create a resume with no experience!

Q: How do I list a resume profile as a career-changer ?

A: What you need to do here is focus on your transferable skills . Like so:

“Customer Support Specialist with over three years of experience in first and second-line phone and chat technical support, looking to transfer communication skills as a Sales Representative at XYZ Ltd. Excellent track record of reliability, being the main POC for all escalation points, and likeability, having received an average of 9.3/10 customer rating for the last two quarters.” 

23+ Practical Resume Profile Examples (For Every Field)

Need some inspiration with your resume profile?

Here are 23 practical resume profile examples you could borrow ideas from...

Customer Service & Sales

Customer service specialist resume profile.

“Motivated and experienced first-line customer service and support specialist with over three years of work put into tech support, troubleshooting and customer satisfaction. Experienced with LiveAgent and ZenDesk. Excellent track record in providing excellent support service. XYZ Ltd.’s employee of the month for May 2019 for receiving a 99.99% support satisfaction rate.”

Not sure how to build a customer service resume ? We have a guide for that!

Sales Associate Resume Profile

“Accomplished Sales Associate with experience in business and private persons insurance sales. Excellent people and communication skills, proven by last two quarters’ personal success in exceeding department’s KPIs by 25%.”

Want to create a sales associate resume that lands you the job? Check out our guide!

Administration

Executive assistant resume profile.

“Executive Assistant with 2+ years of experience as the companies’ CEO right-hand man. Successfully carried out all key administrative tasks, from communicating with company clients to data entry and creating well-researched office documentation. Highly skilled at MS Office tools.”

Receptionist Resume Profile

“Motivated, communicative receptionist with 5+ years of experience as an office administrator and receptionist in both big and small companies. Meticulous record-keeping, and experience working with MS Office Pack, Intranet and physical bookkeeping.”

For more examples, check out our receptionist resume guide.

Data Entry Clerk Resume Profile

“Data entry clerk with 3+ years of experience in high quantity complex data screening, entry and maintenance . Highly skilled at Excel; extremely fast typer and knowledgeable about digital databases. Strong attention to detail and dedication to the job.”

Copywriter Resume Profile

“SaaS copywriter specializing in landing page optimization. 2+ years of experience writing compelling content for e-mail, Facebook and Google marketing. Experienced in using Google Optimizely and Firebase for A/B testing. Previously worked with Unbounce to create and test new landing pages from scratch.”

PPC Specialist Resume Profile

“Driven PPC Specialist with over 4 years of experience in digital marketing. Proficient at: Google AdWords, Google Analytics, Facebook Ads Manager and LinkedIn Ad Platform. Some copywriting skills gained through freelancing. Experience handling an advertising budget of $80,000 with excellent ROI results.”

Need help creating your marketing resume ? We’ve got your back!

Business and Management

Project manager resume profile.

“Dedicated project manager with 3+ years of experience managing IT projects. Managed 5+ software projects from beginning to completion. Basic understanding of several programming languages, including React, Node.Js, and Java. ”

Check out our project manager resum e guide for more examples!

Business Analyst Resume Profile

“Results-driven Business Analyst with over 7 years of experience in consulting businesses, analyzing their processes and operations and presenting them with practical business solutions. 2 years of experience consulting one of the Fortune 500 companies. Experience using several business process management software solutions, including Appian BPM. Helped increase XYZ LTD’s manufacturing output by over 2.5%.”

Human Resources (HR)

Human resources resume profile.

“HR Specialist with two years of experience in developing small companies’ HR strategies, employee training and organizing company events, while under a tight budget. Experienced with the entire talent acquisition process from recruitment to the retention of employees.”

Recruitment Specialist Resume Profile

“Recruitment Specialist with a B.A. in Human Resources and M.A. in Work and Organizational Psychology with full-scope recruitment experience with both active and passive candidate sourcing. Sourced, interviewed and hired 15+ software engineers in Company X’s expansion efforts to Canada in 2021. ”

Finance & Accounting

Bank teller resume profile.

“Bank Teller with one year of experience as the front office cashier and customer service representative at XYZ Bank’s main office. Experienced with handling customer transactions and inquiries. Highly skilled at customer satisfaction, following bank SOPs and complying with data privacy and safety deposit box standard guidelines.”

Check out our bank teller resume guide for more examples!

Accountant Resume Profile

“Certified Public Accountant with over 8 years of experience. Solid knowledge of US GAAP and accounting systems. Top skills include budget forecasting, advanced computer skills, and analytical reasoning. Looking for a new challenge as an accountant at Company X.”

Check out our accountant resume guide for more examples!

Food & Service

Waiter/waitress resume profile.

“Experienced Waitress with a polite and friendly demeanor. Skilled at working in fast-paced environments; extremely good memory and able to memorize menus quickly and without fault. Previous experience includes working in Restaurant X and Bar Y.”

Check out our guide to server resumes for more examples!

Supermarket Cashier Resume Profile

“Experienced and reliable cashier with a polite and friendly demeanor. Worked at Happy Fun Resort over the past 2 summers as cashier in Company X and Company Y. Strong computer skills and experience working with PoS systems. ”

Discover how to make a cashier resume that excels with our article!

Housekeeper Resume Profile

“Dedicated and hard-working housekeeper with 6+ years of experience with both hotel and private home housekeeping. Very punctual and efficient. Previous experience working at Hotel X and Uncle Bob’s Private Cleaning Crew.”

Technical & IT

Data analyst resume profile.

“Data Analyst with 3+ years of experience. Highly data and detail-oriented with excellent analytical thinking. Background in mathematics, statistics, and computer science. Proven track record of using data to improve company operations. ”

Check out our guide to the data analyst resume for more examples.

Software Engineer Resume Profile

“Full-stack software engineer with 5+ years of experience developing end-to-end software solutions. Worked as head engineer at Tech Company X, leading a team of developers working on a new software solution in the Fin-Tech industry. Expert in Node.Js, React, and Java.”

Discover how to make a software engineer resume that excels with our article!

IT Specialist Resume Profile

“Dedicated IT specialist with 5+ years of experience. Previous positions involved network management and database administration. Advanced knowledge of SQL, C++ and Linux. ”

Need an extra push with your resume? Discover top tips on creating an IT resume in 2024.

Computer Science Resume Profile

“Results-oriented computer science student from University Y looking for an entry-level software engineering position. Good communication skills and team player, having led several teams for university projects. Practical experience working with JavaScript, MySQL, and PHP. ”

For more on computer science resumes , check out our dedicated guide.

Nurse Resume Profile

“Nurse RN with 8+ years of experience providing excellent patient care. M.A. in nursing. Expert at charting, patient care, and medicine administration. Seeking to leverage my experience as a nurse at Hospital X.”

Discover more nurse resume examples in our dedicated guide!

Dental Assistant Resume Profile

“Dental assistant with over 5 years of experience in the field. Charged with direct patient care, patient record-keeping, and routine lab works. Strong knowledge of the Dentrix software.

Graphic Design

Graphic designer resume profile.

“Graphic design specialist with 3+ years of experience working with design and marketing agencies. Responsible for every step of the design process, from conceptualization, to execution. Practical experience in designing flyers, websites, landing pages, and more. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite and MS Office. Good communication skills.”

Need an extra push with your resume? Discover top tips on creating a graphic designer resume in 2024.

UI/UX Designer Resume Profile

“Detail-oriented UX / UI designer with 5+ years of experience creating end-to-end digital experiences. Designed software solutions in the fin-tech and hr-tech industries. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French.”

Other Fields

Architect resume profile.

“Architect with 4+ years of experience in landscape design, interior and exterior design, with a focus on designing commercial and residential buildings. Strong attention to detail and creative thinker.”

Discover the top tips for creating an architect resume in 2024 with our guide.

Warehouse Worker Resume Profile

“Hard-working warehouse worker with 4 years of experience in the industry. Physically fit, able to lift heavy objects. Previous experience at Made Up Delivery Solutions involved shipping, receiving and packaging goods.”

Discover more nurse warehouse worker resume examples in our dedicated guide!

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

Now, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A resume profile is a short, 2-4 sentences run-down of your top career highlights and achievements
• A resume profile is also known as a resume summary and resume profile statement.
• Don’t have much work experience? You might want to go for a resume objective instead.
• Every good resume head should include your years of experience (“5+ years of experience doing…”), top achievements (“Increased XYZ LTD’s ROI by X%”), and relevant skills (“Skilled in React, Node.JS, and Java”).

Looking for more career and resume advice? We recommend checking out our career blog for industry-leading articles on how to land the job & succeed in your career!

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

Resume Profile: Examples & What to Put in Your Own Profile

A resume profile is a short summary of your skills, experiences, and qualifications written at the top of your resume. It introduces you as a candidate and highlights what you can offer to a potential employer. This section is becoming increasingly popular among job seekers, and for good reason.

What is a Resume Profile?

As mentioned, a resume profile is a short paragraph at the top of your resume that provides a snapshot of who you are as a candidate. It usually consists of 2-3 sentences or bullet points that summarize your professional background, relevant skills, and achievements. It’s also known as a summary or a personal statement.

Why is a Resume Profile Important?

Hiring managers and recruiters receive hundreds of resumes for each job opening. To save time, they often skim through resumes, especially at the initial screening stage. A resume profile grabs their attention and gives them a quick overview of your qualifications. It also helps them decide whether to read on or not. A well-written profile can make you stand out from the sea of applicants and increase your chances of getting an interview.

How to Write a Good Resume Profile

A good resume profile should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. It should highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that match the requirements of the job. It should also be concise, easy to read, and error-free.

To write a good resume profile, start by researching the job you’re applying for and the company you’re targeting. Identify the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job and make a list. Then, craft a short paragraph that summarizes your qualifications and how they align with the job requirements. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements to make them more compelling. Finally, proofread your profile and make sure it’s free of typos and grammatical errors.

A resume profile is a powerful tool that can help you market yourself effectively to potential employers. By following these tips, you can write a compelling and effective profile that sets you apart from other applicants.

The Basics of Creating a Strong Resume Profile

A resume profile is a brief statement that summarizes your skills, qualifications, experience, and career objectives. It is one of the most critical parts of your resume, as it serves as your introduction to potential employers. A well-written resume profile can help you stand out from the crowd of applicants and increase your chances of getting hired. Here are some tips on how to create a strong resume profile:

Tips for Writing a Great Resume Profile

• Be concise and to the point: Your resume profile should be no longer than a few sentences. Avoid long paragraphs and unnecessary information.
• Focus on your skills and qualifications: Highlight your most relevant skills and qualifications that match the job you are applying for.
• Use keywords: Use keywords that are specific to the job you are applying for. This will help your resume get picked up by applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Be specific: Use concrete examples to illustrate your skills and qualifications. For example, if you have experience managing a team, mention the number of people you managed and the results you achieved.
• Customize your profile: Tailor your profile to the job you are applying for. Use the job description and company information to craft a profile that showcases how you are a strong fit for the role.

How to Make Your Profile Stand Out

There are several ways to make your resume profile stand out:

• Show your personality: Inject some personality into your profile to make it memorable. Use humor or anecdotes that highlight your unique qualities.
• Use a professional tone: While you want to show your personality, you also need to maintain a professional tone in your profile.
• Highlight your achievements: Use your profile to showcase your past achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for.
• Use numbers and percentages: Quantify your achievements with numbers and percentages to make them more impactful.
• Be relevant: Ensure that everything you mention in your profile is relevant to the job you are applying for.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Resume Profile

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing your resume profile:

• Being too general: Avoid using generic statements that could apply to anyone. Be specific about your skills and qualifications.
• Being too long-winded: Keep your profile short and to the point.
• Being too informal: While you want to show your personality, avoid being too informal in your profile.
• Focusing on duties rather than achievements: Instead of focusing on your day-to-day duties, focus on what you achieved in your past roles.
• Using cliches: Avoid using phrases like “team player” or “results-driven.” Instead, use specific examples to illustrate your skills and qualifications.

Your resume profile is a crucial part of your job application. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can craft a strong profile that showcases your skills, achievements, and personality.

The Structure of a Strong Resume Profile

A strong resume profile is essential for making a great first impression on potential employers. It should showcase your expertise, accomplishments, and unique qualities that make you the right fit for the job. Here are the key elements that should be included in a strong resume profile:

Overview of Key Elements

The key elements of a strong resume profile include a headline statement, professional summary, professional experience, education and certification, skills and expertise, and personal interests and achievements. Each of these elements should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and highlight your unique skills and qualifications.

Headline Statement

The headline statement is the first thing potential employers will see on your resume. It should be attention-grabbing and clearly state the type of job you are seeking. For example, if you are a digital marketer looking for a job in social media, your headline statement could be “Social Media Strategist with 5+ Years of Experience.”

Professional Summary

The professional summary is a brief overview of your skills, experience, and accomplishments. It should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and highlight your most relevant qualifications. For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, your professional summary could include your experience in branding, strategy, and analytics.

Professional Experience

Your professional experience is one of the most important elements of your resume profile. It should detail your work history, focusing on key accomplishments and responsibilities that demonstrate your ability to excel in the job you are applying for. Use bullet points to make this section easy to read and highlight the most important aspects of each position.

Education and Certification

Your education and certification should be listed in reverse chronological order. This section should include any degrees or certifications you have earned that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Be sure to list the institution where you earned your degree or certification, as well as any honors or awards you received.

Skills and Expertise

The skills and expertise section should highlight your technical and soft skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Include any software or technical skills you have, as well as any certifications you have earned. Soft skills, such as communication and leadership, should also be listed here.

Personal Interests and Achievements

The personal interests and achievements section may not seem like an important part of your resume profile, but it can help you stand out from other candidates. This section should highlight your hobbies and interests that demonstrate your work ethic, creativity, and leadership skills. It can also include any awards or recognition you have received outside of work.

A strong resume profile should showcase your skills, experience, and unique qualities that make you the right fit for the job you are applying for. By tailoring each element of your resume profile to the job you are applying for, you can increase your chances of getting hired.

Examples of Effective Resume Profiles

Example of a strong headline statement.

A headline statement is an attention-grabbing sentence that highlights your professional branding, experience, and career goals. A strong headline statement emphasizes your unique value proposition and contributes to your employer’s knowledge about your background.

Example: Sales Professional with 8+ Years of Experience Driving Revenue Growth and Building Customer Relationships.

Example of a Powerful Professional Summary

A professional summary is a brief overview of your career objective, relevant experience, and accomplishments that will impress hiring managers. A compelling professional summary showcases your potential to add value to the organization and encourages the recruiter to see your resume as a worthwhile investment.

Example: Highly motivated Project Manager with 10+ years of experience in IT, always striving for efficiency and successful project delivery. Skilled in team management, stakeholder communication, and project tracking techniques for effective task completion.

Sample Job-Specific Profiles

Customizing your resume for a particular job is essential for demonstrating your qualifications, suitability, and interest in the role. A job-specific profile highlights your relevant skills, achievements, and experience that meet the employer’s requirements.

Example: Healthcare Professional with 5+ Years of Experience in Nursing.

Profile Examples for Job Seekers with Limited Experience

If you are starting your career, you may not have a wealth of experience to draw from, but you can still create a competitive resume profile by other means. A job seeker’s profile for individuals with limited experience should focus on transferable skills and personal attributes that demonstrate a strong work ethic, motivation, and willingness to learn.

Example: A recent college graduate with a degree in Marketing, who excelled in research, analytics, and communication, seeking an entry-level marketing position.

Profiles for Career Changers

Career changers seeking to shift to a new industry, function, or role need to draw attention to their transferable skills, experience, and education that align with the new career direction. By emphasizing skills that are relevant to the new job, hiring managers can see how you can successfully pivot to a different career path.

Example: Experienced sales professional with a demonstrated track record of exceeding sales quotas, looking to transition into a business development role in the tech industry.

Your resume profile sets the tone for your entire resume and is a critical component of your job application. By using these effective resume profile examples, you can create a powerful narrative that highlights your qualifications and passion for the job, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

How to Tailor Your Resume Profile to Different Job Opportunities

If you’re like most job seekers, you probably have a standard resume that you send out to all potential employers. However, it’s important to remember that not all jobs or companies are the same, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be the most effective way of presenting yourself to potential employers. Here are some tips on how to tailor your resume profile to different job opportunities:

Research the Job and the Company

Before you begin writing your resume, take the time to research both the job and the company you’re applying to. This will give you a better idea of the specific skills and experiences that the employer is looking for, as well as the company culture and values. Use this information to tweak your resume profile and ensure that you’re presenting yourself as the ideal candidate for the job.

Highlight Your Relevant Skills and Experience

When it comes to your experience and skills, don’t be afraid to spotlight only those that are most relevant to the job opening. This means emphasizing your experiences and skills that align with what the job posting or company description is indicating that they need from candidates.

Don’t Overdo It

At the same time, it’s important not to overdo it when highlighting your relevant skills and experience. You don’t want to come across as over-qualified or desperate. Instead, strike a balance between showcasing your talents and keeping it concise.

Be Concise and Relevant

Finally, make sure that all the information you include in your resume profile is concise and directly relevant to the job you’re applying for. You don’t need to include every detail of your work history or accomplishments. Instead, focus on the most impactful experiences that illustrate your qualifications for the job at hand.

Tailoring your resume profile is not just important, it’s essential if you want to stand out from other candidates and land the job of your dreams. Take the time to research and customize your resume to each job opportunity you pursue, and you’ll increase your chances of success.

Making Your Resume Profile ATS (Application Tracking Systems) Friendly

As technology advances, more recruiters and hiring managers are using Application Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes and filter out candidates who do not meet specific criteria. Unsurprisingly, this means that optimizing your resume for ATS is important to ensure that your profile has the best chance of making it to the next phase of the hiring process. Here is what you need to know about ATS and how to optimize your resume profile for them.

Understanding ATS

An ATS is a software program that is used by recruiters to manage the recruitment process efficiently. They enable hiring managers to track resumes, screen candidates, and process job applications more quickly. ATS parses submitted resumes by breaking them down into relevant sections. These sections are then analyzed, and the software’s algorithms determine if a candidate’s profile matches the job’s requirements.

Tips to Optimize Your Resume Profile for ATS

Here are several steps to make your resume profile ATS friendly:

Use keywords: The first step to optimizing your resume for ATS is to use relevant keywords. These include job-specific technical skills, industry buzzwords, and certifications. Use these keywords in the job titles, skills, and experience sections of your resume.

Use clear formatting: Keep your resume formatting simple and avoid graphics or complicated layouts that could confuse the ATS. Stay clear of columns, tables, and strange characters. Stick to standard bullet points and avoid text boxes.

Use simple language: Avoid using overly complicated language when writing your resume profile. The ATS will struggle to understand technical jargon and use simple language to detail your experience.

Customize your profile: Each job application will require a different approach. Tailoring your resume to each role you apply for will increase the likelihood of it getting picked up by ATS software.

Avoiding Common ATS Mistakes

Here are some common ATS mistakes to avoid:

Resumes submitted as PDFs: While PDFs look professional, they can be challenging for ATS software to parse, potentially resulting in an incomplete or incorrectly parsed resume.

Unusual fonts or characters: Avoid using fonts that are difficult to read or contain characters that ATS may not be able to read.

Too much information: Keep your resume relevant and concise, and avoid including extraneous information that may confuse the ATS system.

Objective statements: While it may have been common to include an objective statement in the past, they are not useful for ATS in selecting an appropriate candidate. Instead, emphasize your relevant experience and skills.

In today’s job market, creating a resume profile that is ATS-friendly is essential. By understanding what ATS is looking for and using the right keywords, formatting, and language, you can maximize your chances of getting selected for interviews. Avoiding common ATS mistakes will also help your resume get through to the next round.

Formatting and Design of Your Resume Profile

When it comes to creating a professional-looking resume profile, formatting and design are essential components that can make or break your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Your profile should be visually appealing, well-organized, and easy to read. Here are some tips for formatting your profile:

Tips for Formatting Your Profile

• Use a clean and simple layout that is easy on the eyes.
• Divide your profile into sections with clear headings and subheadings.
• Use bullet points to break up the text and make it easier to read.
• Make sure your font size and type are easy to read.
• Use white space to make your profile look less cluttered.

Color Schemes and Typography

While the design of your resume profile is important, it’s essential you don’t forget about the color schemes and typography. Choosing the right color schemes and typography is crucial because it can communicate the right message to recruiters and increase the chances of you getting hired.

When it comes to typography, use a font that is easy to read and suits your profession. For example, if you’re a designer, you might use a more creative font to reflect your skills, but if you’re in finance, a traditional font might be more appropriate.

When it comes to choosing color schemes, focus on using simple and professional colors. Avoid using too many colors or garish color combinations that can detract from your profile. Using the right color schemes can help convey the right message and make you appear more professional.

The Role of Visual Elements in Resume Profiles

Using visual elements in your resume profile can make it more attractive, engaging and help you stand out from the crowd. Images, charts, and graphs can help demonstrate your skills and achievements in a way that is easy to understand.

Moreover, using visual elements is a great way to break up your text and make your profile easier to scan. Although visual elements can be advantageous, be sure not to overload your profile with too many images or graphs that can make it look cluttered or confusing.

Formatting, color schemes, typography, and visual elements play a critical role in creating an effective and compelling resume profile. By following the tips and guidelines mentioned above, you can create a standout profile that can enhance your job search by grabbing the attention of employers and hiring managers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Profiles

Common questions and concerns.

What is a resume profile?  A resume profile, also known as a professional profile or career summary, is a brief statement that highlights your skills, experience, and accomplishments as a job candidate. It is typically placed at the top of your resume, just below your name and contact information.

Is a resume profile necessary?  Absolutely! A resume profile serves as a powerful marketing tool that can make or break your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. It provides a concise overview of your qualifications and helps you stand out from other applicants.

What should you include in your resume profile?  Your resume profile should highlight your most relevant skills and achievements, as well as your career goals and objectives. Use strong action verbs and quantify your results whenever possible to showcase your impact.

How Long Should Your Resume Profile Be

How long should a resume profile be?  Your resume profile should be a brief statement of 3-4 lines or 50-100 words at most. It should be concise and focused on your most important qualifications.

Can you write a longer profile?  While it’s important to keep your resume profile concise, you can provide additional information in your resume’s experience and education sections. However, be mindful of the overall length of your resume – it should typically not exceed two pages.

Can You Expand Your Profile With Supplemental Materials

Can you include supplemental materials in your resume profile?  While it’s not recommended to include supplemental materials in your resume profile, you can provide links or attach relevant documents such as a portfolio or writing samples in your application.

What should you include in your supplemental materials?  Your supplemental materials should showcase your skills and provide evidence of your accomplishments. Select items that are directly relevant to the position you are applying for.

Should You Update Your Profile Regularly

Why is it important to update your resume profile regularly?  Your skills and achievements may change over time, and it’s important to keep your resume profile up-to-date to reflect your current qualifications. Additionally, updating your profile regularly can help you stay on top of your career goals and objectives.

How often should you update your resume profile?  You should update your resume profile whenever you experience a significant career change, complete a major project, or learn a new skill. It’s also a good practice to review and update your resume profile every six months to a year, even if there have been no significant changes in your career trajectory.

A strong resume profile is a key component of an effective resume. Keep your profile concise and focused, highlight your most relevant skills, and update it regularly to showcase your career growth and progress.

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter That Complements Your Resume Profile

When it comes to job search, a cover letter is just as important as your resume. In fact, it complements your resume profile by providing an opportunity for you to showcase specific skills and experiences that match the job requirements. Here’s the breakdown of the tips on how to write an effective cover letter that complements your resume profile:

Overview of the Cover Letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. Its purpose is to introduce yourself, highlight your relevant qualifications, and convey your motivation for applying for the position. It should grab the employer’s attention and convince them to consider you for an interview.

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter that Stands Out

To make a great impression, your cover letter should be tailored to the company and the job requirements. Here are some tips to make your cover letter stand out:

• Start with a strong opening sentence that hooks the reader’s attention and creates an immediate interest in your application.
• Personalize the cover letter by addressing the hiring manager by name and demonstrating a knowledge of the company and its products or services.
• Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job requirements. You can use bullet points to showcase your achievements.
• Show your motivation and enthusiasm for the job by explaining why you are interested in the position and how it aligns with your career goals.
• Close your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing your willingness to further discuss your qualifications in an interview.

How to Tailor Your Cover Letter to Your Profile

Your cover letter should complement your resume profile by highlighting specific skills and experiences that match the job requirements. Here are some suggestions:

• Identify the key skills and experiences listed in the job posting and highlight those that you possess.
• Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills and experiences have helped you succeed in your previous roles. Use numbers and data when possible.
• Be concise and selective with your content. Don’t repeat information that’s already in your resume.
• Emphasize your key achievements and how they align with the job requirements.
• If you’re applying for a job in a different field, explain how your skills and experiences translate to the new role and industry.

By following these tips, you can write a cover letter that complements your resume profile and convinces the employer to invite you for an interview. Remember to proofread your cover letter for typos and errors and tailor it to each job application.

Related Articles

• 40+ Modern Resume Templates to Stand Out in 2023
• Project Manager Skills to Boost Your Resume in 2023
• Give Me an Example of a Time When You Solved a Problem
• Channel Marketing Manager Job Description for 2023
• Flexible Scheduling: Navigating a Flexible Work Schedule

Rate this article

0 / 5. Reviews: 0

More from ResumeHead

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• Resume and Cover Letter
• 11 Key Things to Put on Your...

11 Key Things to Put on Your Resume

15 min read · Updated on January 17, 2024

TopResume demystifies the content you need on your resume

As the job market becomes ever more competitive, it's more important than ever to create a resume that can help you to stand out from the crowd. Gone are the days when a mediocre resume was good enough to get your foot in the employment door. These days, you need a truly compelling resume that highlights your value if you want to ensure that you make the best possible impression on prospective employers.

In this post, we'll focus on one of the most crucial elements of the resume creation process: deciding which information needs to be included in your resume. In this guide, we'll examine 11 of the most important things to put on a resume if you want to effectively sell yourself as the best candidate for the job.

1. Contact information

Your contact details need to have a prominent place on your resume, to ensure that employers can easily find the information they need to call you in for a job interview. Like the rest of your resume, this section should be clean and easy to read. Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, Cambria, or Georgia, and stick to simple black text. Include the following information:

First and last name : Many job seekers use a larger font size for this line of their contact information section, to ensure that their name stands out.

Your location : You shouldn't add your street address to your resume, but it is acceptable to include the city and state. This is especially true if you're applying for a position in another area and need employers to know that you're willing to relocate. If the job is in another country, you'll also want to include your country of origin in this line.

Professional email address : Make sure that the email address you use for your resume isn't some novelty address that you created on a whim. For example, if the email that you use with your friends is something like [email protected], don't list that address on your resume. Instead, use a more professional address that includes some variation of your name.

Phone number : If you want prospective employers to call you by phone, there are a couple of things to remember. First, make sure that you have regular access to that phone. Second, make sure that the phone number is in working order. Double check the number you list on your resume to ensure that you've included the right area code and prefix. Even simple typos could make it impossible for employers to get in touch with you.

Professional social media (optional) : You should also include relevant social media URLs, if you think that they can help to highlight your qualifications or abilities. LinkedIn is the most obvious choice for most people, but technology professionals, for example, may also want to include their GitHub or StackOverflow profiles as well.

Website (optional) : For certain professions, it can also be helpful to include website addresses for personal websites or online portfolios. Some examples include Graphic Artists, Copywriters, or Academics with a significant online presence.

Related : Ask Amanda: How Should I Format My Contact Information on a Resume?

2. Resume Headline

A great resume headline can help to immediately draw a hiring manager's attention to your resume. If you're not familiar with this resume element, don't worry - you're not alone. But make no mistake: this simple headline trick can increase the odds of your resume making a powerful first impression on anyone who reads it. So, what is a resume headline, you ask?

A resume headline is a different way of dealing with the old resume title - that area where you list the job title of the position you're seeking. For example, if you were applying for a job as a Marketing Manager, your resume title would just include those two words:

Marketing Manager

Sure, that resume title might clarify which job you're seeking, but it doesn't tell the reader anything about you - either as a person or as a prospective employee. It doesn't say anything about your skills, experience, or personality. Worse, it doesn't do anything to help you to stand out from your competition. Fortunately, however, a resume headline can help you to create a more compelling message.

To create a resume headline, you need to take that job title and add some descriptive language that highlights your value as a potential employee. The following tips can help you to do just that:

1.      Research the job posting to identify keywords related to core skills needed for the position. Chances are that including at least one of these keywords can help to ensure that your resume earns the attention it deserves.

2.      Choose powerful adjectives to describe your capabilities and achievements.

3.      Include measurable results that help to highlight your value.

Sticking with our Marketing Manager title, let's see what that headline might look like if we incorporate those tips:

Dynamic Marketing Manager Consistently Exceeding Client Goals by 25%

Unlike our first example, this one highlights a record of success that any hiring manager can instantly recognize as potentially valuable for their company. Just as important, the addition of that specific information is more likely to help that resume stand out - especially if the other candidates are still relying on the more conventional resume job title option.

Related : 27 Great Resume Headline Examples to Stand Out

3. Summary Paragraph

Your resume should also include a resume profile statement, preferably a summary that helps to sum up your core qualifications. This brief, four or five-sentence paragraph can be thought of as your resume's version of the salesperson's elevator pitch. Done properly, it serves as an introductory statement that highlights your key skills and achievements in a way that captures your reader's interest.

This is important, since most employers only devote a few seconds to scanning each resume they receive. Yes, you heard that right: employers aren't reading your entire resume unless you somehow manage to capture their attention during that initial scan.

So, how do you do that? While the resume headline can help them to take immediate notice, your summary paragraph represents your first real opportunity to make a powerful first impression. It needs to quickly summarize your best qualifications and demonstrate your potential ability to provide real value to that employer. To create an effective summary, you need to:

Briefly highlight your experience

Mention one or two of your most important skills (preferably skills listed in the job posting)

Detail at least one important achievement, using real numbers to highlight value

Below is an example of a great resume summary paragraph for our hypothetical Marketing Manager, that incorporates all the elements we've just mentioned:

Results-driven Marketing Manager with 8 years of experience in client relations, project development, and campaign execution. Core competencies include market analysis, research, resource management, and innovative team leadership. While managing ABC Corporation's marketing team, successfully increased yearly revenues by 35%.

Related : 27 Great Resume Summary Examples to Get Hired

4. Core Competencies or Skills

Your resume also needs to include a section that highlights your relevant skills. This section should be labeled using a title like “Core Competencies” or “Relevant Skills” and include a list of all the skills you want to highlight for the employer. The key is to figure out which skills deserve a place in your core competencies section, since the last thing you want to do is waste precious space on irrelevant abilities that won't impress anyone. These tips can help you to identify the right skills for your resume:

• Begin by reviewing the job posting. Take note of any abilities or traits that the employer included as necessary qualifications. If there are specific skills that you need to possess, you'll need to include those abilities in your skills section.
• Create a list of all the marketable skills that you've developed throughout your career. This list should include both hard skills - abilities that you use to complete your job duties, as well as soft skills, that help you to manage those duties, interact with others, and solve problems.
• Narrow your list of hard and soft skills to 9-12 total abilities, making sure to include each of the required qualifications from the job posting. You should also use the exact terminology in the job posting when listing those required skills. Chances are that those words are keywords that the employer's applicant tracking system will be looking for when the employer conducts a keyword search.
• Once you've identified the skills that you'll be including in your resume's core competencies section, add them to the resume. For example:

Marketing research   |   Strategic planning   |   Budget management   |   Account management

Project management   |   Content creation   |   Team building   |   Digital marketing

Problem-solving   |   Brand management   |   Resource allocation   |   Time management

Related : What Are Skills? (With Examples and Tips on How to Improve Them)

5. Work Experience

Of course, prospective employers will want to see more than just your claimed skills. They'll also want to review your previous work experience to see how you've applied those skills in a real-world setting. That's why it's important to know how to list your past jobs in your work experience section. The following tips can help.

Decide which jobs you want to include. As a rule, you should include jobs going back only ten or fifteen years. Most employers are more interested in your most recent experience.

Start with your current position (or the last job you held if you're unemployed). Then list your other jobs in reverse chronological order.

For each job, list your job title or position, the name of the company, and your dates of employment.

Here's what that might look like in a hypothetical Marketing Manager resume:

ABC Digital Marketing

2018-Present

Assistant Marketing Manager

Excyte Solutions

Repeat that process for other relevant experience. Of course, that basic information is just the outline of your work experience section. We still need to add one more critical thing to this section to ensure that it properly highlights your value as an employee. What's missing, you might ask? Measurable achievements that demonstrate value - which brings us to our next topic of discussion.

Related: Work Experience for a Resume: How to Add it to Get Hired

6. Measurable Achievements

Those employment listings can help the employer to understand the types of jobs you've held, but they don't really provide the type of detail that they need to see to determine your worth. The problem is that you can't really highlight the impact you've had throughout your career if you just provide a dry, dull list of those past jobs. Instead, you need to use that work experience section to show how your actions have created real value for previous employers.

The best way to highlight that value is with measurable, or quantifiable, achievements. Yes, there was a time when job seekers would simply list the duties that they performed at each company. These days, however, serious candidates understand that they need to focus more on value than core responsibilities. Every employee has responsibilities. What matters is how your fulfillment of those responsibilities provides value for an employer.

So, how do you highlight value? It's simple: you just need to list some of the key achievements you delivered in each role, using real numbers to demonstrate your impact on the company's success. To do that, you should include three or four bullet point achievements below each company. Let's look at what that might look like, using our previous examples:

Successfully led reorganization of marketing department that improved efficiency by 43%

Expanded new client acquisition by 33% in two years, increasing revenues by $35 million

Oversaw global expansion effort into 23 new countries

Managed project budgeting and resource allocation for 23 campaigns worth $12 million

Led successful effort to redesign ABC Corporations's digital presence, increasing customer engagement by 78%

Developed new project research process that reduced research and analysis costs by 10%

As you can see, rather than focusing on the duties of each job, this hypothetical candidate instead emphasized real accomplishments that added real value to each company.

Related : Resume Help: Are You a Doer or an Achiever?

7. Education

Your educational achievements are also important things to put on your resume. In most instances, you won't have to devote too much space to this section, but you neglect it at your peril. In fact, if the job posting lists specific educational qualifications, omitting this section would be a huge mistake that could end any consideration of your candidacy.

The good news is that the education section of a resume is one of the easiest to create. You only need to add a few bits of relevant information to complete this part of the resume, including:

The degree that you earned

The name of the school you attended

Your dates of attendance

Relevant coursework, if appropriate

Of course, you can also include some other details, like your GPA or distinctions such as summa cum laude - though these types of information are unnecessary once you've been in the workforce for a few years.

You can also add relevant certifications and extracurricular activities that might help to bolster your case for being the best candidate for a job. In most instances, though, the important thing is to include just enough detail about your education to show that you meet any specified educational requirements for the position.

Related: How to List Education on Your Resume (with Examples)

Thus far, we've identified seven key things to put on your resume - and each of them is considered an essential element of any great resume document. Our last four details for a resume can all be considered optional. Their inclusion will depend on the type of job you're seeking and the things you need to highlight for an employer.

8. Languages

While most Americans speak English, recent migration and globalization trends have increased the importance of language skills. If you're proficient in more than one language and seeking a job where those skills can give you an edge over other candidates, you may want to consider including a language proficiency section in your resume. That section may be necessary if your desired job:

Involves regular contact with non-English speakers

Requires travel to foreign countries where your language skills can be vital for the company

Of course, you should only list your foreign language skills if you are truly proficient in the language and if those abilities are relevant for the position you seek. 

Related: How to List Language Skills on a Resume

9. Awards and Accolades

If you're wondering what to put on a resume for your first job, or just looking for unique things to put on a resume to catch a hiring manager's attention, awards and accolades may be an option. Of course, they need to be the right kind of achievements if you want to earn anything more than a snide eye roll from that hiring manager. Some examples of worthy awards and accolades include:

Awards relevant to your specific industry, demonstrating industry recognition of your achievements

Company awards you've earned in past jobs

Extracurricular awards involving volunteering or community service

Academic accolades - if you're a recent graduate and need to boost your experience with other types of achievements

If you decide to include awards among the things you put in your resume, make sure that you add enough detail to explain why they're relevant, including the issuing organization or body, the date you received it, and some information that quantifies its meaning.

Related : How to List Awards on Your Resume and Wow Recruiters

10. Community Involvement

If you're new to the job market, you may be wondering what to put on a resume with no experience. Obviously, you don't want to leave out your work experience section altogether, since that can be a clear sign to employers that you may not be a viable candidate for their job. Fortunately, your community involvement can sometimes be used to show some real-world experience.

For example, have you spent any time volunteering with charities? Are you actively involved in community organizations? Have you spent time mentoring youth or serving the public in some other valuable way? If so, then any of these experiences can be listed in a community involvement section to demonstrate your commitment to others. Just be sure to include some bullet point achievements that quantify the value your service provided for those groups or causes.

Related : How Do I Add Volunteer Experience to My Resume?

11. Publications

Publications are another of the important things to put on your resume, if your area of expertise involves research or other writing. The use of a publications section is mostly reserved for academics and people who work in various scientific fields, but can also be relevant for some content creators and marketing professionals. As a rule, though, you should only include your publications if you know that they're something the employer will want to see.

Related : How to List Publications on a Resume (with Examples)

Knowing which things to put on your resume can help to ensure success

When you put the right things on your resume, you can improve your odds of making the right impression on prospective employers. The best approach is to start with the essential components we listed above, and then decide which - if any - of the optional elements you need to include to bolster your candidacy. Just remember to include only relevant information that highlights you as the best person for the job, and you'll be one step closer to career success!

Still confused about which things to put on your resume? Get a free resume review from our team of experts today!

Recommended reading:

The Best Resume Format to Get Hired

How to Advance Your Career (plus 10 Insightful Tips)

Top 15 Professional Goals and How to Achieve Them

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

Money Talks News

Never Put These 7 Things on Your Resume

Posted: December 1, 2023 | Last updated: December 1, 2023

Are you preparing a resume? It’s natural to want to tell prospective employers all about yourself — but some things are better left unsaid.

Remember, you have only a limited amount of space to convince someone you would be a good hire. So, avoid including anything that might offend or cause an employer to question your abilities.

Following are some key things to avoid on your resume.

Join 1.2 million Americans saving an average of $991.20 with Money Talks News. Sign up for our FREE newsletter today.

Try a newsletter custom-made for you!

We’ve been in the business of offering money news and advice to millions of Americans for 32 years. Every day, in the Money Talks Newsletter we provide tips and advice to save more, invest like a pro and lead a richer, fuller life.

And it doesn’t cost a dime.

Our readers report saving an average of $941 with our simple, direct advice, as well as finding new ways to stay healthy and enjoy life.

Click here to sign up. It only takes two seconds. And if you don’t like it, it only takes two seconds to unsubscribe. Don’t worry about spam: We never share your email address.

Try it. You’ll be glad you did!

Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.

Criticism of past employers

A sure way to put off a potential employer is to waste space on your resume criticizing past employers or supervisors. You may feel perfectly justified in your criticism, but the purpose of a resume is to showcase talents and abilities, not to air grievances.

Don’t give prospective employers the impression that you are disloyal or generally disgruntled. Instead, write about your positive relationships and accomplishments. Tell people about the good things you can bring to their business if they give you the opportunity.

Excuses for past problems

If you have been laid off or dismissed from a job, you may feel the need to explain the situation in your resume. It’s natural to want to tell your side of the story, especially if you feel that you were not at fault.

However, it’s easy to spend too much time discussing disappointments and missed opportunities. You may give the impression you aren’t taking responsibility for your own mistakes.

A better approach is to write about past successes. If you are called upon to explain a layoff or dismissal in an interview, be honest, but brief. Let people know that your focus is on the future.

Related: 17 Items Every First-Aid Kit Should Have

Irrelevant skills

When a job applicant lists skills unrelated to job performance, it can appear that he or she has no valuable skills to showcase. Instead, describe things that you’ve learned that have improved your performance on the job. For example:

• Do you have great internet skills?
• Did you pursue special training to enhance your contribution in past jobs?
• Are you attending school to earn an advanced degree or certificate?

Old achievements

Focus on recent achievements in your resume. If something happened 10 or 15 years ago, prospective employers may get the impression your successes are behind you.

So, leave out that Cub Scout merit badge.

Sponsored: Find a vetted financial advisor

• Finding a fiduciary financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. In five minutes, SmartAsset's free tool matches you with up to 3 financial advisors serving your area.
• Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. Get on the path toward achieving your financial goals!

Poor grammar and spelling

If you submit a resume with misspellings, typos or grammatical errors, you are unlikely to score a job interview. Even if you are in a field where the proper use of language seems unimportant, most employers want to know that their hires have good communication skills.

Grammatical mistakes on your resume can signal you’re careless and possibly unreliable. A resume free of errors lets recruiters know you’re serious about the job.

Too much information

Recruiters have a limited amount of time to sort through applications. So, keep it brief.

When screening applicants, recruiters look for experience, training and past employment. If you write in great detail about every job you’ve ever had, you may overwhelm. Worse, the information that makes you stand out as an applicant might get overlooked.

In most cases, submitting one or two pages worth of information is adequate. You can expand on your qualifications once you get to the interview stage.

Anything that isn’t true

You may be tempted to exaggerate skills, training or accomplishments. However, doing so always is a mistake. Once you put something in writing, you can’t take it back. Even if it helps you land a job, the lie may resurface years later and damage your reputation or career.

So, don’t exaggerate your qualifications. If you don’t have a college degree, describe the training you’ve received on the job. The best way to get a resume filled with accomplishments is to do work that you’re proud of.

More for You

Putin's address to the nation on concert attack

Karine Jean-Pierre bashed for suggesting migrants storming border is Abbott's responsibility: 'Beyond belief'

‘A huge shock’: Catherine, Princess of Wales, announces she has cancer

16 Compliments You Didn’t Realize Are Actually Pretty Insulting

New hope for sisters trapped in their bodies

I moved to Finland after reading it was the happiest place on earth. Here are 6 things that surprised me living and working here.

‘We will punish all of them’: Putin responds to Moscow attack that killed 143

Casey, McCormick to appear alone on Senate ballots in Pennsylvania after courts boot off challengers

Why do I wake up at 3 a.m. every night?

What to do when your CD matures, according to experts

Stop Soaking Your Dry Beans—Camellia Beans Says You're Wasting Your Time

13 Cool Facts

25 cover songs that are better than the originals

Pentagon reveals that balloon recovered off coast of Alaska had been in ocean for 'well over a year'

'Stop being stupid, people': Michael Steele slams critics for opposing national leader coordination

19 Things You Should Never Do To Your Lawn

Blood pressure is best lowered by 2 exercises, study finds

Why You Should Never Roast Carrots In Olive Oil

3 things to never do at work, according to an HR professional with 10 years' worth of experience

Why Is My House So Dusty?

Looking to sell your home? Here are 4 cheap or free things you can do to boost its value and get a higher price, according to Zillow.

• Zillow's home-trends expert recently shared four cost-effective ways to boost your home's value.
• Amanda Pendleton told BiggerPockets that the right paint color and landscaping could make a big difference.
• Good online photos and highlighting the right details in the listing could also help, she said.

You sunk a down payment into your house and diligently made your mortgage payments throughout the years. You've maintained the property's plumbing, electrical, and roof and maybe even made a few upgrades here and there. You've protected what may be your biggest investment so far.

And now, for whatever reason, it's time to sell.

Naturally, after all of the money and sweat you've put into the property, you want to get the highest price possible for it.

Luckily it's still a fairly hot market, with national median home prices at an all-time high. But there are still a few small things to consider before selling that could help you bump up your house's value even further.

That's according to Amanda Pendleton, Zillow's resident home-trends guru. In a recent episode of the " BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast ," she shared four free or cheap things that home sellers can do to raise the price they can command from buyers.

4 things to boost your home's value

First, Pendleton says adding a fresh coat of interior paint can add value to your home. She says Zillow's data shows that buyers prefer charcoal gray, especially in kitchens.

"Our most recent analysis finds that buyers are willing to pay about $2,500 more for a home that has a dark charcoal-gray kitchen. Dark gray outperformed white in every single room that we tested," Pendleton said. "So it is a really good option, even in the bedroom and the bathroom, if you feel like, 'Oh, dark gray is way too much for my kitchen.' Maybe you don't have enough natural light, you don't think it's going to look good there."

She added: "I'm telling you, dark gray covers a lot of imperfections, and it feels modern. It feels contemporary."

Related stories

Dark navy blue is also popular, she says.

Second, Pendleton recommends doing some landscaping around the house. The key, she says, is to make it clear to the buyer that they can use and enjoy their outdoor space .

This can be done by adding flowers and hedges — and trimming up ones that already exist — as well as putting in simple things such as a fire pit and patio furniture.

"You can entertain around a fire pit, and you can install one yourself. It doesn't cost a lot of money. You can pick one up at Home Depot or wherever, and it's a really desirable feature," Pendleton said.

She continued: "It could translate to a more than 1% increase in your sale price when it's time to sell. And that's something that you could use just to stage your home for sale, right? Even if you're not putting it in for your own enjoyment, that's something that's going to be really appealing to buyers."

Many fire pits can be found on online retailers such as Amazon for under $100. Patio dining sets can range from several hundred to thousands of dollars.

As for cost-free things you can do, Pendleton says that how the house looks online, or its "screen appeal," is important. One thing that can ensure more interest in your house's listing is to have good photos of it. This means letting good light into the house by having curtains open or installing brighter light bulbs, and of course, making sure the house looks clean.

This could also mean having an interactive tour of the house online, in which the potential buyer can click through room by room. Zillow has free software for this named 3D Home, Pendleton says, and real-estate agents may have access to software you can use.

"Listings that have a virtual tour and an interactive plan can get 69% more views and 80% more saves on Zillow than listings without one," she said. "And you can make one for free. You can use your phone."

Finally, Pendleton says emphasizing the right details about the house in the online listing is crucial. For example, outdoor showers boost sale prices by 2.6%, she said. Soapstone countertops may up prices by 3%. And beverage centers — essentially small refrigerators for drinks — increase home prices by up to 2.4%.

"I'm not saying run out, rip out that tile countertop, put in soapstone," Pendleton said. "Instead, if you have these desirable features, you want to flaunt them in your listing description because it really is a signal about everything else you've got going on in your home."

Watch: Turning thrifted furniture into $2,500 Anthropologie dupes

• Main content