tips on how to write a good cv

40+ Resume Tips to Help You Land a Job in 2024

When you haven’t updated your resume in a while, it can be hard to know where to start. What experiences and accomplishments are relevant for the jobs you’ve got your eye on? What new resume rules and trends should you be following? And seriously, one page or two ?

Well, search no more: We’ve compiled all the resume tips you need into one place. Read on for advice and tricks that’ll help you craft a winning resume—and land your next job.

Maximize your chances by looking for more open jobs on The Muse »

Basic resume tips

Let's start with the basic do's and don'ts when putting your resume together. Listing your skills is not the only thing that matters—choosing the right format and sections is equally crucial. Here are some tips for writing a resume from scratch:

1. Don’t try to cram every skill and work experience onto your resume

Think of your resume not as a comprehensive list of your career history, but as a marketing document selling you as the perfect person for the role you’re applying to. For each resume you send out, you’ll want to highlight only the accomplishments and skills that are most relevant to the job at hand (even if that means you don’t include all of your experience ).

This is called tailoring your resume and it helps anyone who reads it see exactly why you’re a match for a specific position.

2. But keep a resume outline with a full list of your qualifications

Since you’ll be swapping different information in and out depending on the job you’re applying to, save a resume outline —or maybe our resume worksheet —on your computer with old positions, bullet points tailored for different applications, and special projects that only sometimes make sense to include. Think of this as your brag file. Then, when you’re crafting each resume, it’s just a matter of cutting and pasting relevant information together.

3. Ditch the objective statement

The only time an objective section makes sense is when you’re making a huge career change and need to explain from the get-go why your experience doesn’t match up with the position you’re applying to. In every other case, resume objectives just make you look old-fashioned or out of touch.

Read More: 3 Reasons You Should Ditch That Resume Objective—and 3 Things You Can Do Instead

4. Put the best, most relevant information first

In journalism speak, “above the fold” refers to what you see on the front half of a folded newspaper (or, in the digital age, before you scroll down on a website)—basically it’s your first impression of a document. In resume speak, it means you should make sure your most relevant qualifications are visible on the top third of your resume.

This top section is what the hiring manager is going to see first—and what will serve as a hook for someone to keep on reading. If your most recent position isn’t the most relevant piece of your candidacy, consider leading with a skills section (such as in a combination resume format ) or writing a resume summary .

5. Choose the right resume format for you

There are lots of different ways to organize the information on your resume—like the functional resume or combination resume. But the good old reverse chronological —where your most recent experience is listed first—is usually your best bet. Unless it’s absolutely necessary in your situation, skip the functional or skills-based resume—hiring managers might wonder what you’re hiding.

6. Keep it concise

The two-page resume is a hotly debated topic, but the bottom line is this—you want the information here to be as short as possible, and keeping it to one page forces you to prioritize what really matters. If you truly have enough relevant and important experience, training, and credentials to showcase on more than one page of your resume, then go for two. But if you can tell the same story in less space? Do it.

Read More: 6 Pro Tips for Cutting Your Resume Down to One Page

7. Include relevant links

Can’t figure out how to tell your whole story on one page, or want to be able to include some visual examples of your work? Instead of trying to have your resume cover everything, cover the most important details on that document. Then, include a link to your personal website , your online portfolio , examples of your work, or a relevant, professional social media profile , where you can dive more into what makes you the ideal candidate.

Just avoid hyperlinking over words that are key to understanding your resume, since it can throw off the tools employers use to store and parse resumes.

8. Be aware of the ATS

You may have heard that employers are using computers to “read” your resume and decide who to hire and reject. That’s not exactly true. But most employers do use software called an applicant tracking system—or ATS—to parse resumes and organize them so that recruiters and hiring managers can search for the most relevant applications.

You should assume your resume will pass through an ATS at some point during your job search, so understanding how it works will help make your hunt more efficient. (All of the tips for resume writing in this list keep ATSs in mind as well!)

Read More: Beat the Robots: How to Get Your Resume Past the System and Into Human Hands

Resume formatting tips

Your resume's format matters as much as the content it holds. Aim for a simple and minimalist layout, without overwhelming columns, colors, or graphic elements. Here are some key resume formatting tips to help you stand out:

9. Keep your resume format simple

We’ll talk about getting creative in order to stand out in a minute. But the most basic principle of good resume formatting and design? Keep it simple. Make your resume easy on hiring managers’ eyes by using a reasonably sized default font like Helvetica or Arial and leaving a healthy amount of white space on the page. Your main focus here should be on readability for the hiring manager (and that pesky ATS).

Read more: The Best Resume Font and Size (No More Agonizing!)

10. Stand out with ATS-friendly design elements

Really want your resume to stand out from the sea of Times New Roman? Yes, creative resumes —like infographics, videos, or presentations can set you apart, but you have to make sure they actually get read. If you’re uploading your resume to a job application site or online portal, use ATS-friendly formatting elements like:

• Bold and italic text
• Underlining (in headings or over hyperlinks)
• Different text alignments
• Columns that can be read straight across

11. Avoid design elements that can’t be “read” by computers

On the flip side, it’s best to avoid design elements that ATSs are known to have trouble with such as:

• Logos and icons
• Images and photos
• Graphics, graphs, or other visuals
• Headers and footers
• Less common fonts
• Columns that can only be read from top to bottom

12. Make your contact info prominent

You don’t need to include your address on your resume anymore (really!), but you do need to make sure to include a phone number and professional-sounding email address (but not one affiliated with another job!) as well as other places the hiring manager can find you on the web, like your LinkedIn profile, plus your pronouns if you’d like to.

Read More: Here's Exactly What Should Be Included in Your Resume's Header

13. Design your resume for skimmability

You’ve probably heard before that hiring managers don’t spend a lot of time on each individual resume. So help them get as much information as possible in as little time as possible, by making your resume easy to skim .

Work experience resume tips

Recruiters nowadays want to know more than a simple description of your responsibilities. They're looking for the results and impacts of your work, as well as the connection between your experience and the position you're applying for now.

That said, let's take a look at some resume writing tips for describing your work experience:

14. Keep your work experience recent and relevant

As a rule, you should only show the most recent 10-15 years of your career and only include the experiences that are relevant to the positions you’re applying to. Remember to allocate real estate on your resume according to importance. If there’s a choice between including one more college internship or going into more detail about your current role, always choose the latter (unless the internship was more relevant to the role you’re applying for).

15. Don’t forget your transferable skills and experiences

Don’t panic if you don’t have any professional experience that fits the bill. Focus your resume on your relevant and transferable skills along with any related side or academic projects , and then make sure to pair it with a strong cover letter telling the narrative of why you’re ideal for the job.

Read more: What to Put on Your Resume When You Have No Relevant Work Experience

16. Write strong, achievement-focused bullet points

The bullet points under each job entry are arguably the most important part of your resume. They tell whoever’s reading it what skills you have, how you’ve used them, and how you’ve helped your employers in the past.

So start with a strong action verb , include relevant skills from the job description , and frame your bullets around your achievements—don’t just list your job duties . Tell them how your work benefitted your boss or company so they know what they stand to gain by hiring you.

Here’s a simple formula to follow:

• Compelling verb + job duty + key skills used = tangible result

So you might say: “ Developed an upgrade to the employee database, ensuring the smooth flow of critical operations, which led to a 35% increase in efficiency. ”

17. Curate your bullet points and experiences

No matter how long you’ve been in a job, or how much you’ve accomplished there, you shouldn’t have more than eight bullet points under it—and that’s only for your most recent and relevant job. Jobs further back should generally be limited to four to six bullets.

Read More: How Many Bullet Points Should Each Job on Your Resume Have?

18. Use as many numbers as you can

Use facts, figures, and numbers whenever possible in your bullet points. How many people were impacted by your work? By what percentage did you exceed your goals? Quantifying your accomplishments allows the hiring manager to picture the level of work or responsibility you needed to achieve them.

19. Don’t neglect non-traditional work

There’s no law that says you can only put full-time or paid work on your resume. So, if you’ve volunteered , worked part-time or as a temporary or contract worker , freelanced, or interned? Absolutely list these things as their own “jobs” within your career chronology—as long as they’re relevant to the job you’re applying for. The same goes for career breaks . Yes, really.

Read More: 4 Things You Didn't Know You Could Put on Your Resume

20. Use important keywords from the job description

Scan the job description, see what words are used most often, and make sure you’ve included them in your bullet points. For example, does the job description list “CRM” or “Salesforce”? Make sure your resume matches. Not only is this a self-check that you’re targeting your resume to the job, but it’ll also make it easier to search for your resume in an ATS.

Read More: How to Pick Resume Keywords That'll Get Your Job Application Past the ATS

Resume tips for including your education

Most hiring managers will want to know your education level, even if it's not necessarily relevant to the position you're going for. This section is especially important for those changing careers or applying for entry-level jobs—as your education can be an indicator of the skills you have.

Here's some resume tips and tricks for this section:

21. Put experience first, education later

Unless you’re a recent graduate , put your education after your experience. Chances are, your last couple of jobs are more important and relevant to you getting the job than where you went to college.

22. Also keep it in reverse chronological order

Generally, you should list your educational background with the most recent or advanced degree first, working in reverse chronological order. But if older coursework is more specific to the job, list that first to grab the reviewer’s attention.

23. Remove the dates from your education section once you’re a few years into your career

Unless you’re early in your career, don’t list your graduation dates. The reviewer cares more about whether or not you have the degree than when you earned it. And you don’t want to inadvertently open yourself up to age discrimination , which is an unfortunate reality in some job markets.

24. Highlight honors and achievements, not GPA

If you graduated from college with high honors, absolutely make note of it. Showcase that summa cum laude status, the fact that you were in the honors college at your university, a relevant project you completed, or an award you won. You don’t need to list your GPA —employers don’t care as much about GPA as they do what skills you gained in school.

Read More: How to (and How Not to) List Education on Your Resume

25. Include continuing or online education

Feel free to include continuing education, professional development coursework, or online courses in your education section, especially if your resume feels a little light on relevant experience.

Best resume tips for showing off your skills

You shouldn't wait until you get an interview to showcase your skills—your resume can and should have a specific section for them. You can also leverage other sections of the document to incorporate what's relevant for the position.

Here are our tips for making a resume that effectively highlights your skills:

26. Don’t forget your skills section

Be sure to add a section that lists all the relevant skills you have for a position—especially those mentioned in the job description. Include technical skills like software and project management tools or specific knowledge of how to perform relevant tasks. Just make sure to skip including skills that everyone is expected to have, like using email or Microsoft Word. Doing so will make you seem less technologically savvy.

27. But don’t only put your skills in your skills section

Your skills section is an easy way for anyone reading your resume to confirm that you have required qualifications, but that shouldn’t be the only place that your important skills appear. Any skill that’s vital to you being hired should also be in your bullet points—where you can show how you’ve used it in the past.

28. Divvy up your skills for readability

If you have lots of skills that would help you with a job but aren’t necessarily in the same category—say, foreign language, software, and leadership skills—try breaking up your skills sections. Below your “Skills” section, add a subsection titled “Language Skills” or “Software Skills,” for example. Again, we’re going for skimmability here!

29. Show—don’t tell—your soft skills

Describing soft skills on a resume often starts to sound like a list of meaningless buzzwords. But being a “strong leader” or an “effective communicator” are important characteristics you want to get across. Think about how you can demonstrate these attributes in your bullet points without actually saying them.

Read more: The Non-Boring Way to Show Off Your Soft Skills in Your Job Search

Other resume section tips

Resume sections are not fixed like stone-written texts; they can change according to the job position you're applying for or the requirements listed by the company. Here are some examples of sections you can add—and more tips on writing a resume that stand out:

30. Include relevant certifications and licenses

If you have a certification or license that proves you can do some aspect of the job you’re applying for, include it on your resume. This is especially important if that certification or license is legally required to do the job—for example, in nursing, teaching, or driving jobs.

31. Show some (relevant) personality

Feel free to include an “Interests” section on your resume, but only add those that are relevant to the job. Are you a guitar player with your eye on a music company? Definitely include it. But if you’re considering including your scrapbooking hobby for a software developer job at a healthcare company? Best to leave it out.

32. Beware of interests and activities that could be controversial

Maybe you help raise money for your church on the reg. Or perhaps you’re dedicated to canvassing during political campaigns. Yes, these experiences show a good amount of work ethic or possibly other relevant skills—but they could also open you up to be discriminated against by someone who disagrees with the cause. So weigh your decision to include them carefully.

33. Add awards and achievements—when they’re relevant

Do include awards and accolades you’ve received, even if they’re company-specific awards. Just state what you earned them for, e.g., “Earned Golden Salesperson Award for having the company’s top sales record four quarters in a row.” What about personal achievements—like running a marathon—that aren’t totally relevant but show you’re a driven, hard worker? Consider the best way to include them (and if you should).

Resume tips for navigating employment gaps and other sticky situations

If you're an experienced professional, you might have some tricky information to explain. Job hopping, career gap, and short term jobs are examples of things that can make an applicant feel insecure when drafting resumes.

Is that your situation? Check on these good resume tips to explain sticky situations without jeopardizing your chances to get an interview:

34. Cut the short-term jobs

If you stayed at a (non-temporary) job for only a matter of months, consider eliminating it from your resume to avoid looking like a job hopper. Leaving a particularly short-lived job or two off your resume shouldn’t hurt, as long as you’re honest about your experience if asked in an interview. But if the short-term job is super relevant to this job, consider including it anyway.

35. If you have shorter gaps, be strategic about how you list dates

If you have gaps of a few months in your work history, don’t list the usual start and end dates with months and years for each position. Use years only (2018–2020), or just the number of years or months you worked at each position. Just keep it consistent throughout your resume and don’t lie if asked about gaps during an interview.

Read more: How to Explain the Gap in Your Resume With Ease

36. Explain serial job hopping

If you’ve job-hopped frequently, you can include a succinct reason for leaving next to each position like “company closed,” “layoff due to downsizing,” or “relocated to a new city.” By addressing the gaps, you’ll proactively illustrate the reason for your frequent job movement and make it less of an issue.

37. Explain a long break in jobs

Re-entering the workforce after a long hiatus? This is the perfect opportunity for a summary statement at the top, outlining your best skills and accomplishments. Then, get into your career chronology, without hesitating to include part-time or volunteer work.

38. Be intentional about career gaps

While career gaps are becoming increasingly common, you should still frame them in a way that’s relevant to a future employer, by talking about skills you gained or any professional endeavors you took on. If you didn’t focus on professional development, that’s fine too! But not every employer will appreciate it if you get too cutesy about that section of your resume.

For example, if you took time out of the workforce to raise kids, you might not want to creatively describe this parenting experience on your resume, à la “adeptly managed the growing pile of laundry.” Instead state what you did plainly and include any professional skills you may have grown or activities you may have done.

Read More: Stay-at-Home Parent? How to Kill it on Your Comeback Resume

Tips on resume finishing touches

Writing a good resume alone isn't the only thing that matters. How you save and send it can also determine whether the recruiter will even take a look at it. To wrap things up, here are our resume formatting tips and other suggestions to boost your chances of getting noticed:

39. Ditch “References available upon request”

If a hiring manager is interested in you, they’ll ask you for references—and will assume that you have them. There’s no need to address the obvious (and doing so might even make you look a little out of touch!).

40. Proofread, proofread, proofread

It should go without saying, but fully edit your resume and make sure it’s free and clear of typos. And don’t rely on spell check and grammar check alone—step away for a few hours, then read your resume closely again, and ask family or friends to take a look at it for you.

41. Save it as a PDF or Word document

Unless a job posting specifically requests that you do otherwise, your resume should always be submitted as either a PDF or Word document (.docx not .doc). These are the formats that can be most easily opened and most easily parsed by an ATS.

The choice between the two is up to you (again, unless the company you’re applying to requests one format over the other). If you’re emailing your resume, however, PDFs are a bit more likely to maintain your formatting across different computers and programs.

42. Name your file clearly

Ready to save your resume and send it off? Save it as “Jane Smith Resume” instead of “Resume.” The hiring manager is going to have plenty of “Resumes” on their computer, so make it super easy for them to find what they’re looking for. You can even go a bit further and put the position title in your file name (e.g., “Jane Smith Marketing Analyst Resume).

Read More: The (Simple) Guidelines You Should Follow When Naming Your Resume and Cover Letter Files

43. Keep your resume outline fresh

Carve out some time every quarter or so to pull up your resume outline and make some updates. Have you taken on new responsibilities? Learned new skills? Add them. When your resume is updated on a regular basis, you’re always ready to pounce when opportunity presents itself. And even if you’re not job searching, there are plenty of good reasons to keep this document in tip-top shape.

CVs & Résumés

• Jul 30, 2021
• 21 min read

How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae): A Complete Guide

Whether you're looking for a new job, building your network or applying to university, you won't get far without a CV. This guide will help you build a CV that sets you apart from the competition.

Chris Leitch

Editor-in-Chief & Résumé Expert

Reviewed by Melina Theodorou

Confusing. Overwhelming. Frustrating. Intimidating. Discouraging. These are just some adjectives you could use to describe the entire CV writing process – particularly when there’s so much (and often conflicting) advice out there.

And there’s also a lot to know about putting your résumé together , from choosing the right format to creating a logical structure, and designing with the reader in mind to effectively communicating your skills and experience to hiring managers.

It’s really no wonder that most people find the entire process off-putting.

But this CV writing guide simplifies everything for you in clear, easy-to-follow steps so you can build a CV that will grab the hiring manager’s attention from the get-go and get you one step closer to the job of your dreams.

Here’s what we'll cover in this guide:

1 Understanding the basics

2 Choosing the right format

3 Planning the structure

4 Writing your CV

5 Designing for skimmability

6 Using examples for inspiration

7 Getting expert help

8 Marketing your CV

Without further ado, here's how to write a great CV.

1. Know the basics

First things first, let’s get the technicalities out the way.

Understanding the basics of writing – whether it’s your first CV/résumé  or dozenth time round – will help you organise your CV with ease and accomplish your goals, whether it’s applying for a job , a promotion or a university placement .

Let’s get started:

What is a CV?

A CV – short for ‘curriculum vitae’, meaning ‘course of life’ in Latin – is a written presentation of your academic and professional history. It’s essentially a marketing document, and its purpose is to help you secure an interview by strategically advertising your most relevant skills, qualifications, knowledge, experience and accomplishments.

Mainly used for job applications, CVs are also commonly requested to apply for university programmes, scholarships and grants.

Why do I need a CV?

Simply put: because employers expect one.

As a hiring manager myself, I can assure you that every application that’s submitted without a CV attached gets deleted without so much as a second thought.

Essentially, your CV has the power to open doors for you. It’s your first point of contact with potential employers and, when done right, it can help you position yourself ahead of the competition.

Before submitting your application, always check that you’ve attached your CV. If possible, it’s also a good idea to send a test email to yourself or a friend to make sure attachments open without issue.

How does a CV differ from a résumé?

They’re essentially the same thing. The only real difference between a CV and a résumé is how they’re referred to in different parts of the world.

In North America, for example, you’ll use a résumé to apply for a job. In Europe, though, there’s no such thing as a résumé – you’ll instead be asked for a CV, and on occasion, in the Europass format . That said, CVs are also used in the US and Canada, but only for academic and research jobs.

2. Choose the right format

How you present the information on your CV is just as important as the information itself.

And this really all boils down to the particular CV/résumé format you use.

Each format has a specific purpose and unique qualities, and each takes a different approach in showcasing your experience and qualifications. And understanding what each format does (and which one works best for you) will provide you with the basis for writing a strong CV.

What are the different CV formats?

There are two types of CV formats: traditional and non-traditional.

Traditional formats use basic text that highlights your background. These are:

• The chronological CV , or reverse-chronological CV, which focuses on your work history and lists your experience in chronological order from latest to oldest.
• The skills-based CV , or functional CV, which focuses on your professional skills, particularly those which are transferable to the job you’re applying for.
• The combination CV , or hybrid CV, which gives equal weight to both your experience and your skills.

Non-traditional formats, on the other hand, still provide an overview of your background but they go beyond simply providing a general list of your experience and skills by also showcasing your personality and creativity. They include:

• The infographic CV , which uses eye-catching imagery such as icons, graphs and charts to organise content.
• The mini CV , which is a cross between a business card and a CV, and is mainly used for distributing at networking events.
• The video CV , which is a filmed presentation of your application.
• The CV website , which is an online version of your CV, either as a standalone webpage or a sectionalised website .

If you use a non-traditional format for your CV, you should also create a traditional version to send along in your application. Some recruiters won’t care about looking at your non-traditional CV, so having a traditional CV ready might save your application from being ignored completely.

Which format should I use?

This largely depends on your particular career situation.

Indeed, what works for someone else – even in the same position and industry as you – doesn’t mean it will work for you too. For example, a social media manager with a solid employment history would ideally use a chronological CV, but if you – also a social media manager – were unemployed for a long time, then a skills-based CV is the way to go, as it will help you effectively bridge employment gaps.

Not sure which format to use? Check out the comparison table below to help you choose the format that is most appropriate for your specific situation and that will best highlight your expertise and accomplishments:

3. Plan out the structure

Before you start writing your CV, it’s a good idea to first plan out its structure . This way, you can make sure that you’ll cover all the important information that a potential employer should know about you and your professional journey.

Whether you do this using a word processor or on paper, make a list of all the individual sections you will include in your CV and then organise them in the order they’ll appear.

‘Sounds good!’ you say. ‘But –’

What sections should I include?

Your CV – no matter your position, industry and level of experience or your chosen format – should, at the very least, comprise the following five sections:

• A header featuring your name, professional title, contact information and, depending on local conventions, photo and some personal details .
• A profile that briefly outlines who you are, what you offer and what your goals are – typically in the format of a career summary or an objective statement .
• Your employment history , which lists your previous jobs and explains what you achieved in each position.
• Your education , which lists the degrees and qualifications you have earned or are currently pursuing.
• Your skills , which highlight the specific hard skills you’ve developed throughout your career and which are relevant to your industry and the job you’re applying for.

If there’s anything else you’d like potential employers to know that you weren’t able to mention elsewhere on your CV, meanwhile, consider using additional sections to communicate that information.

Some ideas include:

• Awards and honours
• Certifications and licences
• Hobbies and interests
• Memberships and affiliations
• Military experience
• Qualifications
• Presentations
• Publications
• Testimonials
• Volunteer work

Great, but –

How should I organise my CV?

How you organise your CV’s layout mainly depends on the particular format you’re using, as shown below:

If you’re using a non-traditional format, meanwhile, you won’t necessarily have to follow a specific structure. A video CV, for example, will generally rely on a well-written and engaging script to communicate the relevant information to employers in a natural and logical order.

However you organise your CV, make sure that each section is accompanied by a heading that clearly tells readers what the specific section is all about. Ideally, use common names like ‘Experience’ and ‘Education’ for headings, but feel free to be creative – just not too creative.

4. Write your CV

Now that you’ve chosen the best format for your experience and particular situation and you’ve planned out your CV’s structure, it’s time to actually get down to writing.

This is the tricky part, but by implementing the following strategies, you’ll be able to write a CV that perfectly meets the needs of the vacancy you’re applying for – and successfully captures the hiring manager’s attention.

Tailor your CV to the job you’re applying for

The best way to get noticed as a candidate is to make the hiring manager feel special – so special that you’ve chosen them (and only them) out of everyone else to apply for a job with (even if you are applying for jobs with other companies). This means that you need to tailor your CV to the specific job you’re applying for.

Do this by researching the company (their website is a good place to start) to get a feel of their brand and culture, re-reading the job description and making a list of important keywords, and then strategically customising your experience, skills and qualifications to the employer’s needs.

Focus on achievements, not duties

Hiring managers don’t want to read a rundown of your day-to-day duties and responsibilities – they can hazard a pretty good guess as to what a French teacher’s job entails, for example.

What they do want to read about is how you can help their company.

This can be communicated by focusing on your achievements in previous jobs, instead of duties. Think about what you did and how you did it – and use numbers to quantify results.

For example, ‘Taught French to Grade 12 students’ can easily be reworked as ‘Prepared Grade 12 students for the SAT Subject Test in French, culminating in a 99% passing rate’.

Write for applicant tracking systems

You’re not just writing your CV for recruiters, but robots too.

Most companies today use an applicant tracking system (or ATS, for short) in their hiring process, which is a software designed to automatically filter applications based on preset criteria before they’re even viewed by a human recruiter.

One way to get around this is to strategically incorporate relevant, targeted keywords in your CV, which you’ll be able to find in the job description.

It’s also important to format your CV with ATSs in mind. Most can’t ‘read’ complex formatting and will instantly discard applications containing tables, columns, images and graphics, so it’s best to avoid these altogether.

Keep it concise

Hiring managers don’t have the time – or patience – to read a War and Peace -length saga of your employment and academic history. In fact, they barely spend 10 seconds on the initial screen of your CV .

If you can, keep your CV to one A4 page – particularly if you’re just starting out in your career and you don’t have a lot of relevant experience. However, if you have lots of experience and achievements, a two-page CV is generally better – just make sure to include the most compelling information on the first page.

That said, a CV should never be more than two pages long unless you’re applying for an executive, technical, scientific or academic position, in which case it’s perfectly normal to spread across 10 or more pages.

If you use more than one page for your CV, make sure you use up at least half of the last page. If the content only fills a quarter or, especially, a single line of the last page, consider adapting the formatting or editing the content down.

Use actionable language

Your CV needs to stand out to potential employers if you want a fighting chance at getting an interview, not to mention landing the job you’re applying for.

A great way to do this is to use clear, actionable and impactful language that encourages hiring managers to keep reading.

One method is to start bullet points with powerful action verbs like ‘coordinated’, ‘maximised’ and ‘streamlined’.

It’s also a good idea to use the active voice (think: ‘Managed a small team of content writers’) instead of the passive voice (‘The content team was managed by me’) when writing your CV, as this makes for a more interesting read. In this case, it also sounds less arrogant.

Take local conventions into account

Depending on the country in which you’re applying for a job, there may be differing standards and guidelines for putting your CV together.

In most EU countries, for example, you’re expected to include things like your birthdate, nationality, gender and marital status – something that is generally discouraged in countries like the UK and the US.

We can’t stress enough the importance of checking – and following – local conventions before sending off your application, as including the wrong thing or leaving out crucial information could hinder your chances of getting an interview.

Proofread your CV

Nothing gets your CV tossed into the ‘No’ pile faster than an abundance of careless typos. Indeed, research shows that 44% of hiring managers will reject  an error-laden CV – even if you’re the best candidate for the job.   

Always proofread your CV before sending it off to potential employers, checking – and double- and triple-checking – everything from job titles to contact information and formatting to grammar and hyperlinks to overall consistency.

That said, self-editing can be tricky since you know exactly what you want to say, so asking a trusted friend, relative, teacher or coworker to take a look at your CV is also a great idea. They’ll be able to point out any potentially embarrassing typos you may have missed (think: ‘excellent attention to derail skills’) as well as provide you with constructive feedback on how to make your CV look and read better.

Update your CV regularly

Ideally, you should revisit your CV at least twice a year – even if you’re not actively looking for a job.

As your job responsibilities change and evolve, and you learn new skills, earn new qualifications and achieve more professional goals, make sure to adapt your CV accordingly as they happen.

You never know when a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will come knocking on your door, and the last thing you want is scrambling to update your CV – and potentially missing the application deadline.

5. Design for easy skimming

Recruiters don’t read CVs from start to finish. They scan them – at least the first time around.

They’re busy people, often looking to fill 10 or more different positions at the same time. And when you consider that a single job vacancy typically receives, on average, between 75 and 250 applications that they need to review, it’s really no wonder they’re tempted to cut corners.

The secret to ensuring recruiters actually pay attention to your CV is simple: make it skimmable. And the following tips will help you do just that.

Choose fonts carefully

When it comes to CV fonts , the goal is to choose one that’s clean, legible and easy on the eye.

It’s also important to consider how you’re going to send your CV. If you’re applying online, stick to a sans serif font like Arial, Calibri or Verdana; if you’re printing and mailing your CV, though, a serif font like Cambria, Garamond or Georgia is best.

Script fonts like Comic Sans and decorative fonts like Jokerface, meanwhile, have no place on your CV. They only hinder your document’s professionalism – not to mention your own.

Whichever font you choose, use no more than two different styles – one for headings and one for paragraphs and bulleted lists, for example.

Keep font sizes between 10pt and 12pt. That said, section headings typically look good at 14pt–16pt, while your name at the top of the document can be even larger, generally set to 20pt–24pt.

Use bullet points

Nobody likes to wade through large chunks of text. It’s monotonous and overwhelming, and it can deter busy hiring managers from reading your CV. But you can immediately grab their attention by using strategic formatting to break up content and present information.

One way to do this is to use short bullet points and phrases instead of full sentences and, especially, paragraphs. This helps you break information down into manageable bite-sized pieces fit for scanning.

On that note, stick to standard round or square bullets or, if you prefer, hyphens. Whichever style you choose, though, make sure it’s consistent throughout your CV.

Go easy on the colours

While using colour in your CV can seemingly be a great way to communicate your creativity to potential employers, too much of it can be overwhelming and detract from your CV’s content.

As a general rule of thumb, stick to black and white (black for text, and white for the background). Feel free to add a third colour if you want – but do this sparingly, such as to draw attention to key aspects of your CV, like section headings.

Use white space liberally

The more white space you leave, the better.

In fact, white space (the unused space between design elements) increases reading comprehension by up to 20% . It also makes your CV look neater and more organised, and it focuses the reader’s attention where you want to put it – effectively creating a more pleasant reading experience.

You can accomplish this by playing around with page margins (which should be set to a minimum of 1cm on all sides), adjusting line spacing, and keeping bullet points to a single line.

6. Use examples for inspiration

Before you start writing and designing your CV, it’s always a good idea to look at examples relevant to your profession, industry and overall experience. Not only can this be a great source of inspiration, but it also gives you the advantage of capturing the latest trends and best practices when putting your CV together.

We created the following CV and résumé examples to give you an idea of what a great CV should look like, all of which are based on our professionally designed and ATS-friendly templates:

Entry-level CV

Mid-level CV

Professional CV

Academic CV

7. Get help from the pros

If all this sounds a bit too overwhelming or you don’t have the time to work on your CV, you might want to consider enlisting the help of one of CareerAddict’s résumé experts  to do all the grunt work for you and craft a compelling CV that effectively markets your top skills and achievements to employers.

Our CV writing process is simple:

• Once you place your order, we’ll be in touch to gather all the information we need from you, to get to know you and your career journey, and to learn about your specific needs and goals.
• We’ll then match you with an expert writer, who will work closely with you to craft a compelling, ATS-optimised CV that effectively markets your top skills and achievements.
• The first draft of your new and improved CV will be delivered within 3–7 business days. You’ll then get free unlimited revisions for 30 days, and your designated writer will provide you with expert tips and insights along the way.

8. Market your CV

Now that your CV is ready, it’s time to get it into the hands of recruiters, hiring managers and people who can influence hiring decisions.

No matter how well-written your CV is or how perfect you are for a job, simply applying for advertised vacancies isn’t the only way to get your CV into the right hands. Remember: competition is fierce, so you need to do everything possible to stand out from the crowd.

Here, we’ll explore the different strategies you can implement to market your CV – and land more interviews.

Write an effective cover letter

Every CV you send should be accompanied by a well-written cover letter – even when the job ad doesn’t ask for one. (The only time you shouldn’t send a cover letter is when the ad specifically instructs you not to.)

Like your CV, your cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for and should (and this is important to remember) expand on the relevant points made in your CV rather than repeat them.

Essentially, your cover letter is your chance to actually sell yourself to potential employers and tell them how you can contribute to their company’s success. You can do this by focusing on your professional achievements and how these match employers’ needs.

Create an online version of your CV

Everything is online these days, and you should be too. It’s the 21st Century, after all, and not having an online presence can potentially spell disaster for your job search efforts.

The solution: create an online version of your CV.

Whether it’s a carefully written LinkedIn profile or a dedicated page on your website, a virtual CV helps you get noticed more – especially when you’re actively looking for a job. Headhunters, for example, are always on the prowl to find the perfect candidate, and this makes it easier for them to find you.

Share your CV with your network

One of the biggest benefits of networking is that the contacts you make along the way can prove useful when you’re looking for a new job – particularly if you know someone who works at the company you have your eye on. An employee referral, after all, increases your chances of getting hired by 6.6%, according to Glassdoor research .

That said, don’t share your CV with complete strangers. Make the time and effort to develop a relationship with potential referrals first, and be ready to offer something in return – remember: networking is a two-way street.

Distribute your CV at job fairs

While most employers primarily use job fairs to promote their companies and collect CVs for future opportunities (not to fill current vacancies), attending – and distributing your CV at – such events can be a great way to meet and connect with colleagues and recruiters.

Make sure to take plenty of copies of your CV with you to share with recruiters. It’s also important that you take the time beforehand to really get to know your CV inside out, as some companies will review it on the spot and ask you to participate in an initial screening interview.

Post your CV online strategically

Uploading your CV to an online job board is a great way to increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. But it’s important to be strategic about where you post your CV.

While major  job boards  are certainly useful, you’ll generally have a higher success rate if you post your CV to niche and speciality sites, aggregator sites like our very own  CareerAddict Jobs , and even professional association websites.

Key Takeaways

Didn’t have the time to read the entire guide?

Here are the main things you need to know about writing your CV:

• Always send a CV when applying for a job.
• Choose a format that fits your particular career situation.
• Make sure your CV includes the five main sections: header, profile, experience, education and skills. Feel free to add extra sections to communicate other important information.
• Tailor your CV to the particular job you’re applying for, use actionable language and incorporate relevant keywords.
• Use a clean, user-friendly design that instantly grabs the reader’s attention.
• Check out CV examples to see what other people are doing, and use them for inspiration when putting your CV together.
• If in doubt, use a professional CV writing service to help you clearly and effectively communicate your skills, qualifications, experience and accomplishments to potential employers.
• Submit a targeted cover letter along with your CV, and share your CV with your network to boost your job search efforts.

Got a tip worth sharing or a question you’d like to ask about how to write a CV? Drop us a message in the comments section below!

Résumé Examples

Résumé Formats

Job Applications

• CV Examples
• CV Templates
• Cover Letter
• Job Interview

How to write a CV in 9 SIMPLE steps

Whether you are writing your first CV or improving the CV that you have already written: Below you will find 9 easy-to-follow steps for writing a perfect CV, covering everything from personal details to the final references section.

Each section contains writing guidelines, a completed example + useful tips.

Key points:

• Curriculum Vitae (commonly abbreviated, of course, to CV) is the Latin expression for “the course of one’s life”
• The best way to look at a CV is to see it as a ‘marketing tool’ or a ‘sales brochure’ where you sell your skills, qualities, expertise and potential to a prospective employer
• As a general rule, the length of a CV should be no longer than 2 A4 pages

Getting started…

This section must contain the following information in chronological order:

• Your name: written in big bold letters and centred on the page
• Your contact details: address, mobile number and e-mail address

• Do not write “Curriculum Vitae” at the top of your CV
• Avoid unprofessional e-mail addresses (e.g. [email protected] )
• Do not include the prefix “address:” before the actual address
• Avoid including optional details such as your date of birth, gender, marital status, nationality, etc. unless there is a benefit of including such information

When writing your personal profile, ensure it is:

• Short (no more than 5 lines);
• Relevant to the job you are applying for, and;
• Contains some real-world examples .

• Your personal statement needs to be punchy and should outline your personal characteristics as they relate to the role you are applying for
• Don’t be humble, be confident and write only positive things about yourself
• Do not mention any vague clichés such as “ excellent communication skills ” or “ I can work well in a team and on my own initiative ” WITHOUT giving real-world examples of these skills and abilities

What types of achievements should you include in this section? Well, any accomplishments that portray you in a positive light are worth considering, including:

• Trained or educated others
• Completed important projects on time and within budget
• Increased sales figures (by such-and-such %)
• Saved time by coming up with efficient methods and tools
• Qualifications gained
• Good results in examinations and tests
• Leader/captain/manager in some club or organisation
• Anticipated in the organisation of fun fairs, open days, etc.

• Over two years of relevant work experience in the field
• 2:1 degree in Business Management from the University of London
• Student Ambassador (2 Open Days), Bexley College
• Only include relevant accomplishments in this section
• Do not include more than three items under this section
• Only use bullet points and short sentences , not long paragraphs
• This section is optional ; if you feel that you haven’t got something useful to include here you can simply omit it and go straight to the education and training section

Courses that you can list here:

• Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees
• A-Levels, BTECs and other college-level courses

It is also perfectly fine to list down any additional training/qualifications that you have received. In our example, however, we have included a separate “Qualifications” section below to separate the education from the professional training.

2013 – 2016         BSc Computer Science         Northampton University Grade achieved:     [1st Class Hons]

Relevant modules:

• Programming Languages: Java, PHP and C++
• Human-Computer Interaction
• System Security and Encryption
• Contemporary Trends in Computer Science

2012 – 2013         A-Levels         East London College Results: ICT: B Media: A English Literature: B

2005 – 2012         GCSEs         Ada Secondary School Results: 11 GCSEs at Grades A*-C, including Maths and English.

• Only include relevant and up-to-date information that will add value to your CV. For example, if you have a PhD in Molecular Biology, it won’t make any sense to dedicate a big chunk of your CV to your primary, secondary and college education!
• Always accompany any entries of this section by grades and dates (from – to)
• Expand on important education (e.g. degree) and list some of the relevant modules that you have completed as part of the course

The following are some of the jobs that you can include under this section:

• Permanent and temporary jobs
• Full-time and part-time jobs
• Weekend and summer jobs
• Voluntary positions
• Industrial placements and internships

Each entry should be accompanied by the following information:

• The name of the company you have worked in
• The start and end dates (from-to)
• Your job title
• Your primary duties and responsibilities

Main duties performed:

• Providing relevant information and recommendations to customers with regards to products, services and offers available
• Directing customer calls to the correct department when required
• Dealing with any complaints, suggestions and feedback on a daily basis and ensuring that they are processed and dealt with correctly
• Offering relevant support to customers on a need-by-need basis
• Processing orders and taking payments
• Dealing with cancellations, refunds and replacements of products and services
• Liaising with the Sales department regarding payment-related issues
• Ensuring product information are accurate and up to date;
• Calming down tense situations by offering reasonable solutions, advice and information to the customers in a professional and courteous manner

Mar 2013 – Sept 2014         Sales and Marketing Assistant         Primark

• Acting as the first point of contact for the shop’s existing and new customers
• Till operation, serving customers and directing them around the shop
• Handling customer queries and complaints on a day to day basis.
• Giving expert advice on product selection to customers
• Arranging window displays (and special promotions)
• General cleaning and maintenance of the shop.
• Do highlight your achievements in the roles (e.g. exceeded sales targets, managed a project or a team, entrusted with higher responsibilities, etc.)
• Do not include your previous employers’ contact information here (you can mention that in the “References” section below)
• Do not mention any outdated, irrelevant or insignificant work experiences
• Avoid excessively using jargon and technical terms which many readers may not be familiar with

In this section, you can list down the names of the qualifications that you have achieved accompanied by the following information:

• The issuer/training provider
• The level of the qualification (if applicable)
• The validity/expiry date of the certificate (if applicable)

• Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Customer Service – The Open University
• Level 2 ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) – BCS
• First Aid at Work – HSE
• Mention the most important qualification first
• Try to limit the number of your qualifications to a maximum of 5
• Including dates are optional so it is generally recommended to leave it out

There are a broad range of skills that you can mention, such as:

• IT Skills – being able to use the computer to accomplish tasks
• Communication – being able to listen/talk to people in a constructive manner
• Interpersonal – The way you relate and interact with others
• Numerical – being able to handle numbers, maths, estimations, etc.
• Analytical – being able to give meaning to data, analyse information
• Problem-solving – being able to offer solutions to problems
• Teamwork – being able to work with other people to achieve a common goal
• Leadership – being able to take responsibility, lead/mentor others, etc.
• Organisation – being able to meet deadlines, plan and schedule tasks, etc.

• Excellent communication skills and telephone manners, with the ability to speak in a clear, audible and courteous manner
• Computer literate, with a typing speed of 70wpm (words per minute) and the ability to respond to emails and letters in a time-efficient manner
• Full, clean UK driving license with my own transport
• Always try to include real-world examples with the skills that you mention
• Only include relevant skills that will assist you in the job

The following are some of the benefits of this having hobbies on your CV:

• It will give the recruiter a fuller and more complete picture of you
• Sporting interests indicate that you are fit and healthy
• Involvement in the community indicates good interpersonal skills
• Outside interests tell the employer that you can have a good time as well
• They form a great basis for discussion at the interview stage

– When applying for a catering job

• Mention one or two hobbies that are relevant to the job. In the example above, the person is applying for a catering position and mentions that they are passionate about food and enjoy going out to restaurants.
• Do not include any hobbies that do not add value to your application
• Always bear in mind that the priorities of your CV are some of the other major sections of your CV such as the education and employment sections. Do not fill up half a page with your hobbies and neglect the most important sections!

One of your references should be your current or former employer, and the second referee can be any person who knows you well.

For each of your referees include the following details:

• Title/position
• (Work) Address
• Telephone number
• Email address

Mr Jack Adams Store Manager, Exclusive Luxury Address: 5 Summerland Rd, Oxford, OX8 3QP Tel: 0533 433 907 Email: [email protected] Mrs Angela Willingham Direct, 360 Vision Ltd. Address: 72 Casper St, Bexley, BP2 7CL Tel: 0783 796 7830 Email: [email protected]

• Always give the job title of the referees; otherwise, they can just be your mates for all we know!
• Always ask permission of your references before you write them on your CV
• If you decide not to include references on your CV you can simply write “ references available upon request. “

Final Tips:

• Use appropriate presentational techniques to make your CV easy to scan and read
• Fit your CV’s content into 2 A4 pages (remove information when necessary)
• Don’t forget to proofread your CV for spelling and grammar mistakes
• Tailor your CV for each individual job that you are applying for

Congratulations! You have now written a killer CV which will dramatically increase your chances of securing a job interview. Good luck!

Working on your CV? Awesome!

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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!

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How to write a great CV: a Guardian Jobs guide

You only get one chance at a first impression, and your curriculum vitae (CV) is your paper-based introduction. It’s your opportunity to show your future employer what you’re all about, and to highlight your skills, personality, and past achievements in a way that leaves a lasting impression on hiring managers.

If you’re struggling with where to start, this Guardian Jobs guide is for you. We have the expert tips and advice you need to craft a CV that sets you apart from the competition. Think of us as your own personal careers advisor!

Ready to get started? Let’s begin.

Key takeaways

• A CV is a professional document used during the recruitment process. It should include your work history, educational qualifications, and personal achievements
• A good CV is one that clearly highlights your most marketable skills and is clearly tailored to the job description
• Your CV should list all your hard and soft skills, as well as examples of times you’ve exhibited these skills

What is a CV?

A CV is a document that lists your employment history, work experience, education qualifications, personal skills, and any other relevant achievements. CVs should be clearly formatted and have a formal, business-like in tone. Save your personality for the cover letter! 

CVs are usually submitted as part of a job application and will help your employer get to know you better and determine whether you’re a good candidate for the job. They should be tailored to match the job description for the role you’re applying for and highlight all the skills that make you a great fit for that role. This shows your potential employer that you've taken the time to understand what they’re looking for and that you're serious about the opportunity. 

Did you know: CV is the UK term for this document, but you might hear US colleagues calling it a résumé. Curriculum vitae is Latin for ‘the course of my life,’ while résumé is French for ‘summary.’

How to write a good CV

Check out this Guardian Jobs guide on how to write a strong CV, including some top tips to help you stand out from the crowd.

1. Name and contact details

The first thing you should put on your CV is your personal information, including name and contact details. This will allow employers to reach out if they like your CV.

Include your full name, mobile phone number, email address, and your LinkedIn profile or any social media accounts relevant to the job. For example, if you’re applying for a job as an Instagram coordinator, it’s a good idea to include your Instagram username. Your digital presence should be polite and business-like when using it as part of a job application.

Use a professional email address, set up a simple out-of-office message if you’re away from your laptop, and ensure your voicemail service is polite. 

2. Personal profile and skills

Your personal profile should be a short description of yourself, career history, and skills. It should highlight any specific skills you have that are relevant to this role, like your experience with different software, knowledge of programming languages, soft skills, and more. These skills can be listed in bullet points below your personal profile if this section is feeling wordy. 

3. Employment history and work experience

You should then give a detailed explanation of your employment history and work experience. Start with your most recent position and work backwards in chronological order, including the name of the business, the dates you worked there, and your job title as the bare minimum. 

You should also highlight your key responsibilities, projects you supported with, and any achievements while you worked there. Use specific examples and figures wherever possible to help employers quantify your skills.

Remember to tailor your CV to the job you're applying for, highlighting any skills or experiences that are most relevant to the position. The aim is to make sure the whole document demonstrates your suitability for the role and makes it easier for employers to see how your past experiences align with their needs.

Pro tip: Break information down into bullet points to make it easy to read and scan. On average, recruiters spend 7 seconds looking at a CV , so you want to make sure they take in as much information as possible in those 7 seconds. Bullet points are a great way to do that. 

4. Formal education

Your formal education should include any school , college, or university qualifications you’ve achieved. 

As with work experience, start with the most recent qualification you gained and work backwards. Include the name of the institution, the dates you attended, and the qualification obtained.

You may also want to include any relevant coursework, projects, or academic achievements, especially if they demonstrate skills that are applicable to the job you're applying for. You don’t have to include your grade. However, if you’re especially proud of your marks or you’re applying to a graduate scheme where you need a specific result to be considered, feel free to include them.

Pro tip: Be prepared to produce any degree, A-level, or GCSE certificates if asked for them. We recommend keeping them in a presentation file so you can quickly access them when requested.

Other relevant information

Other relevant information might include whether you have a driving licence, access to your own vehicle, any languages spoken and your level of fluency, certifications or professional memberships, and any additional skills or qualifications that are relevant to the job.

You can include hobbies and interests in this section so long as they’re relevant. Most people enjoy socialising and travelling, so it’s not worth including these. However, if you enjoy activities that demonstrate relevant skills or characteristics, such as volunteering or playing team sports, these can be valuable additions to your CV. 

There’s no need to include contact details for referees on your CV - a simple ‘references available upon request’ will be enough. If space is tight, it’s perfectly acceptable to leave this off. Employers will assume they can reach out to your references at offer stage. 

How long should a CV be?

A CV should be no longer than 2-sides of A4 paper in total. Your text should be no smaller than font size 10 and you should use clear and concise language to convey your information. Be sure to use a professional and readable font like Arial, Calibri, or Open Sans if using Google Docs. 

Focus on including the most relevant and impactful points about your experience, skills, and qualifications. Avoid padding out your CV with irrelevant details, or giving a blow by blow account of less recent experience, which can be briefly summarised instead.

Key skills to put on a CV

The skills you put on your CV should be tailored to the specific competencies and key skills employers are looking for. You can find these in the job description and should do your best to match your experiences to those listed. 

If you’re struggling with what skills you should highlight on your CV, try using the following examples to get you started. 

Soft skills

Soft skills are non-technical skills and characteristics that relate to how you interact with colleagues, your thought processes, and your emotional intelligence.  Some examples of soft skills might include:

1. Communication skills

Having great communication skills means being able to express yourself clearly and listen actively to others. Be sure to highlight any times you’ve spoken in front of a crowd, examples of how you navigate difficult conversations, and how you collaborate effectively with colleagues. 

Communication skills are essential in any workplace, so make sure to showcase your ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. You should also highlight foreign language skills here. For example, if you’re a French speaker or have the ability to translate complex documents into Spanish. 

2. Problem solving

Problem solving skills include analytical thinking, using data to make decisions, and the ability to come up with creative solutions to problems. Highlight the specific examples of when you’ve used problem-solving skills to overcome challenges in the workplace, especially in situations where the resolution wasn’t clear at the outset 

3. Customer service skills

Customer service skills are key in hospitality, retail, and customer support roles. These roles involve effectively addressing customer needs, resolving issues, and ensuring a positive experience. Highlight any specific experience you have with being adaptable, product knowledge, patience, and attention to detail to evidence your customer service skills. 

4. Conflict resolution

Conflict resolution is another important soft skill, especially in customer-facing roles. use specific examples of times you’ve resolved a customer complaint or managed a dispute between two colleagues to highlight your conflict resolution skills. , hard skills.

Hard skills are the specific, teachable skills required to do a role. For example, if you’re a nurse, doctor, or other medical professional, your hard skills might be knowledge of different medications, an understanding of phlebotomy, or the ability to use an X-ray machine. 

More general hard skills might include: 

1. Programming languages

Programming languages might include Java, Ruby, C++, or Python, among others. Proficiency in programming languages is crucial for roles in software development, web development, data analysis , and other technical fields . You should also list how long you’ve used that language so hiring managers can gauge your skill level. For example, ‘5 years Java, 3 years Python.’

When listing programming languages on your CV be sure to indicate your skill level. For example, beginner, intermediate, or advanced.

2. Graphic design

Highlight any key projects you’ve worked on, as well as your knowledge of design programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign, to showcase graphic design skills. 

As with programming languages, be sure to indicate your proficiency with these software and provide specific examples of how you've utilised them in your work. This could include designing logos, creating marketing materials, or developing website layouts. You should also have a portfolio of work completed using these programs. 

3. Accountancy

Be sure to list all the accountancy exams you’ve passed, as well as any relevant software proficiency, such as Excel or QuickBooks. Additionally, explain your experience in financial analysis, budgeting, and auditing, if applicable.

4. Data analysis

Data analysis skills might include an understanding of statistics, analytical skills, and knowledge of different data analysis software like Excel, SQL, or statistical software. Be sure to describe any qualifications you have gained or training courses completed. For example, bootcamps, university courses, or online certifications. 

Write a great CV with Guardian Jobs

A CV is a key document in recruitment processes and your best opportunity to make a great first impression on your future employer. It’s your chance to reiterate to recruiters why you’d be the right fit for their business and why you should get the job. 

As a result, it’s important that you highlight your previous responsibilities and experiences along with your soft skills and personality. This ensures the hiring manager understands your qualifications, strengths, and gets a flavour of who you are. 

Follow the format suggested in this article, and you’ll have a winning CV in no time. Remember, your CV is your chance to showcase what sets you apart from other candidates, so don’t be afraid to show the very best of yourself. 

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How to write a CV

A CV is a summary of your skills, achievements and experience that you use to apply for jobs.

Why you need a CV

A CV is your first chance to promote yourself. A good CV might get you a job interview.

You usually need a CV to apply for a job or to give to an employer you’d like to work for.

Tips for writing your CV

Employers get lots of CVs to look at and have to decide quickly who they're going to interview.

When you write your CV, remember to:

• use a clear font like Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri in size 11 or bigger
• always use the same style throughout
• use headings and bullet points to make it easier to read
• be clear and to the point
• get someone else to read it to double check your spelling and grammar

Information you need for your CV

Start with the job advert for the role you’re applying for so you can look at the job description, essential criteria and the company details.

If the job you're applying for does not have a job description, you can look at our job profiles to see what skills you’ll need and the typical things you’ll do in that job.

You should write your CV to match the job and company you're applying for to improve your chances of getting an interview.

Sections for your CV

Your CV should include a section for your contact details, an introduction, your education history, your work history and references.

Contact details

You need to let employers know how to contact you if they want to offer you an interview.

You should include your name, phone number, email address and a link to your work network profile, if you have one, such as LinkedIn .

You should not include your age, your date of birth, whether you're married or your nationality.

Introduction

This is a few short lines that sum up who you are and what you hope to do. It should go just under your name and contact details.

Make your introduction sound like you're the right person for the job.

Education history

You can add this after the introduction if you’re early in your career or do not have much work experience.

If you have a lot of work experience, you might want to change the order and show off your work history and experience first.

Whatever order you choose, you’ll need to include the:

• names of your qualifications
• name of the school, college or university where you studied
• dates you attended

Work history

You should include details of any work placements, volunteering and paid jobs you’ve had. List the most recent experience first.

You should include:

• the employer name
• the job title
• the dates you worked there
• what you did, usually 2 to 3 lines using the STAR method

Gaps in your work history

It's normal to have some gaps between jobs and work experience when life events happen.

You can read our advice on how to explain gaps in your work history .

Short work history

If you’re applying for your first job, you can focus on skills you’ve learned through projects, work experience or volunteering.

You can also include your interests and hobbies that show some of the skills you have. For example, if you're a captain of a sports team, this demonstrates leadership and organisation skills.

You might want to include a section about references if there is someone who has agreed to give you one. This could be your current or previous employer, a teacher or someone respected in your community.

However you should not put someone else's contact details on your CV. Instead, you can say that 'references are available on request'.

Speak to an adviser if you need help

It's ok to feel overwhelmed or confused about how to write a CV, especially if you do not have a lot of work experience.

A careers adviser can help you work out what your CV should say and get you on the path to your dream career.

Speak to a careers adviser

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How to write a CV

If you want to land your dream job, you need to write a winning CV.

A good CV will get you noticed by employers and land you plenty of interviews.

But a poor CV will see you ignored and missing out on suitable opportunities.

So, I’ve put together this step-by-step guide that shows you how to write a CV that will get you results.

No matter what your experience level or industry, you can create an attractive CV and secure a job that you really want.

CV templates 

What is a CV?

A CV (which stands for Curriculum Vitae) is a written document that contains a summary of your skills, work experience , achievements and education.

You write your CV and send it to potential employers to show them that you are a good match for the job you are applying for.

A recruiter or hiring manager will then review your CV for the employer, and if they think you are a suitable candidate for their vacancy, they will invite you in for an interview.

The ultimate purpose of your CV is to win job interviews for you, by demonstrating that you are the perfect candidate for your target jobs.

“The purpose of you CV is to win job interviews”

What to include in a CV

The exact information you include in your CV will vary depending on your experience level and the type of jobs you are applying for, but most employers will expect to see the following details in your CV:

• Name and contact details – It’s important that employers know who you are and how to contact you.
• A CV profile or personal statement – An introductory paragraph at the top of your CV that summarises your skills, knowledge and suitability.
• Work experience – A list of your previous jobs, demonstrating how you contributed to the employer’s success.
• Work placements/voluntary work – If you have no paid work experience, you should include details of voluntary work or school work placements.
• Education & qualifications – A detailed summary of your education and qualifications you have achieved.
• Hobbies and interests (optional) – These should only be added if they are impressive or relevant to the jobs you are applying for.
• Achievements – Any outstanding results you have produced in your work or education should be mentioned throughout the CV.

How to layout your CV

Recruiters and hiring managers are busy people with 100s of CVs to review for every job, so they only spend a few seconds on an initial review of your CV .

With this in mind, you need to create a CV layout that is easy to digest and allows readers to find the information they need quickly.

Here are the main sections you need to include in your CV structure and how to order them. You can use a CV template to make this process quicker and easier if you like.

Name and contact details

At the top of your CV you need to show recruiters who you are and how they can contact you.

Keep these personal details tucked up into the top of the page to save space for the content in your CV.

The details you should include in this section are;

• Your full name
• A professional title : To give recruiters an instant idea of your talents, give yourself a professional title such as; Marketing expert or Finance graduate
• Telephone number: Provide a number that you can answer quickly such as your mobile
• Email address: Use an email address that sounds professional and avoid using one that contains a nickname or anything unprofessional
• Your location: Put your town/city to give employers a general idea of where you are based. If you are looking/willing to relocate you must make that clear. Your location is particularly important as you can be quickly rejected from a role if the recruiter thinks you live too far away to commute.
• LinkedIn profile : Or other social media link can be added to give recruiters access to view your online presence and recommendations.

Quick tip: You can save space and add some design flair to your CV by adding some icons to symbolise the contact details in your header.

Your CV profile (sometimes called a personal statement for junior candidates) is an introductory paragraph that sits at the top of your CV.

Here you will provide a short summary of your skills, experience and qualifications, and endeavour to reflect the qualities being asked for by the employers you are targeting.

The aim of your CV profile is to hook the attention of time-strapped recruiters and encourage them to read the rest of your CV.

I will cover how to do this in more detail in the CV profile section .

Work experience

Your work experience is the section where you list your current and previous jobs, showcasing the skills you have used and contributions you have made.

List your experience in reverse chronological order (meaning newest to oldest) because recruiters tend to be more interested in your recent work.

For experienced candidates this will be the largest section of your CV because employers will be most interested in your employed work.

For people with little or no experience this will be a relatively small part of your CV.

I will cover this in more detail in the work experience section of the guide.

Your education section should contain a summary of your qualifications and educational achievements.

Junior candidates and people with no work experience should provide lots of detail here, including schools & universities attended, GCSE grades, A levels etc.

Experienced candidates do not need to provide as much detail here and should only list a brief summary.

I will cover this in more detail in the education section of the guide.

Hobbies & interests

Hobbies and interests are entirely optional, but you can add some if they could make you appear more suitable for the jobs you are applying to.

I will cover what types of hobbies you can add in the CV hobbies section of this guide.

Your CV format will play a big part in it’s success.

If the information in your CV is well-arranged and presented in a simple and professional style – it will be easy for recruiters to navigate it and digest the content.

If the information is poorly laid-out, cramped or messy, then readers will struggle to read it, and probably skip past it.

Here’s how you should format your CV;

• Create a text document – Use writing software like Microsoft Word or Google Docs to create a Word document or PDF (you could also use an online CV builder )
• Use a clear simple font – This makes it easy for all recruiters and hiring managers to read it.
• Divide sections clearly – With bold headings and space to make it easy for recruiters to jump to the sections they need.
• Use a calm colour scheme – Loud colours can be off-putting and look unprofessional, so keep it muted.
• Avoid photos and images – Photos take up valuable space and do not add any value to the CV (unless you are a model or actor )
• Use plenty of bullet points – To break up information and provide a pleasant reading experience.

Now that you’ve seen an overview of what your CV should include and how it should be structured, I will walk you through how to write each major section of your CV.

Writing your CV profile

Your CV profile (sometimes called a personal statement) is a make-or-break part of your CV.

It is a short introductory paragraph at the top of your CV, and is the first thing that a recruiter will see upon opening your CV.

So, it needs to excite people and encourage them to continue reading the rest of your CV.

What to include in your CV profile

To provide employers with a high-level summary of what you can offer them, you should include the following information in your profile;

• Skills – An overview of your skills which are most important to the jobs you are applying for.
• Experience – A summary of the types of jobs you have done, and companies you have worked for.
• Qualifications – A brief explanation of your most relevant qualifications .
• Benefits – How would employers benefit from hiring you? Will you make their customers happy? Save them money? Improve their business?

Although this seems to be a lot of information, it’s important to keep this section brief by providing an overview of these factors, and not going into too much detail.

CV profile format

The format of your CV profile should be a simple brief paragraph of around 5-8 lines in length.

The reason for keeping this section short is because recruiters are busy people with hundreds of CVs to process.

They will initially review a CV for 6-8 seconds before deciding to shortlist it or not, so you need to get your message across to them quickly here.

You should think of your profile as an elevator pitch , where you have a few seconds to tell employers why you are a suitable candidate for the jobs you are applying to. Once you’ve passed this initial scan, recruiters will invest much more time into reviewing the rest of your CV.

Your profile should be written in fully formed sentences that are easy for anybody to understand – and don’t be afraid to sell yourself.

Tailoring your CV profile

The key to writing a good CV profile is demonstrating to recruiters why you are the best candidate for the job they are advertising. To do this, you must tailor the profile to match the candidate requirements of the jobs you are targeting.

So, how do you do this?

By researching your target roles before you write your CV.

Run a search for the type of job you are applying for across multiple job websites like CV-Library or Total Jobs and build a list of the most common skills, experience and qualifications being asked for in job descriptions .

Once you have complied this list, you will have a solid idea of the key words that your target employers are looking for.

Then you simply have to reflect those in-demand requirements in your profile as much as possible.

The more suitable skills and knowledge that a recruiter sees in you profile, the more likely you are to get call-backs and interviews .

You should also look to tailor the rest of your CV in a similar fashion for maximum effect.

Quick tip: If you are lacking some of the key requirements for the jobs you want – think of ways you could obtain them. For example, if you are missing a qualification, could you take an online course ? If you are missing work experience, could you take up a brief voluntary role?

What to avoid in your CV profile

To ensure your CV makes a positive impact on recruiters, try to avoid the following mistakes.

Clichés and buzzwords

You may have seen CV advice or examples that encourage you to use cliché phrases like:

• I am a hardworking team-player
• I always go the extra mile
• I am a strong communicator
• I think outside the box

However, these phrases do not impress employers.

The problem with these cliché phrases is that they are vague, overused and don’t tell recruiters anything specific about you.

Focus on describing your industry specific skills, experience and achievements, because they are what recruiters will be looking for.

Take a look at the following examples to understand why you should avoid using cliché phrases in your CV profile.

Profile filled with clichés

“Hard working professional who works well in a team or individually, quick to grasp new ideas & skills. I take pride in my work and strive for excellence and always meet deadlines”

What job would this person be suitable for? A sales assistant ? A project manager ?

Although it may sound impressive, it’s impossible to tell what this candidate has to offer because the profile is full of clichés and contains no facts – this is what you should avoid at all costs.

Some of the points may be important, but they are totally meaningless without facts and context, so recruiters won’t learn anything about you with a profile like this.

Here is a better example of a CV profile with no clichés

“Accomplished Project Support Assistant with a proven track record in the support of large construction teams on the delivery of complex housing builds within strict budgets and deadlines”

If you make your profile more factual like this, it will give recruiters a greater understanding of what you have to offer.

Also, a factual profile like the above can imply your soft skills , such as being a hard worker and team player , without actually having to write those terms.

Adding a core skills section

If you want to make a big impact when you CV is opened, add a core skills section to your profile.

It’s essentially a bullet pointed list of attributes which ideally should relate directly to the requirements that your potential employers are looking for.

Here is an example from a candidate applying for a customer service role in retail banking.

The effect is that each point jumps out of the page at the reader and shows them that you are a good fit for the role, just from glancing at your CV.

This helps you to create that big instant impression of suitability that you need to get a response from your job applications.

You can include anything that will be relevant, from IT skills and industry knowledge, to education results and achievements. Just make sure they are important to the roles you are applying for by researching relevant job adverts.

Adding your work experience

Once you’ve written your CV profile, it’s time to list your work experience.

If you are an experienced candidate then this section will be the largest part of your CV.

If you have little or no paid work experience you can also include:

• University work placements
• School work experience placements
• Voluntary work
• Gig economy work

Employers value work experience greatly, so it’s important to write this section well.

Listing you work experience

You should list each previous role individually, starting with your current or most recent job, working down the CV to your oldest job – This is known as reverse chronological order .

Your current job and recent roles should contain lots of detail because recruiters see them as the best way of assessing your current capabilities – it should also be written in present tense .

Older roles can be summarised as you go down the CV, as recruiters will be less interested in your work from several years ago.

If you have a lot of experience (over 10 years for example) then you can omit really old roles (especially if they are  irrelevant). For example, if you are an experienced nurse, a potential employer is unlikely to interested in a bar job you did 10 years ago, so you do not need to include it in your CV.

If you are making a career change you need to be selective about which roles you include.

Structuring your role descriptions

Your work experience section is your opportunity to show recruiters how you apply your skills in the workplace and the impact you make on your employers.

To do this effectively you need to structure each role clearly and provide the information that recruiters want to see.

This annotated example shows how you should do this.

Start each role with a bold heading to clearly define them on the page.

Include the following information for each heading;

• Dates employed from and to
• Name of employer

Build context for recruiters by providing an overview of the company you work for, where you fit within the organisation, and a brief summary of the role.

“Working within business support team for global publishing business, providing administrative support to a number of busy teams and managing 2 assistants”

Key responsibilities

List the responsibilities within your role in short bullet points , and demonstrate as many important skills as possible, using action verbs – showing who you interact with, and how your actions benefit your employer.

• Acts as first point of contact for email, telephone and in-person enquiries, responding professionally and providing information
• Coordinating meetings, compiling agendas, taking minutes and distributing documents
• Updating the customer database daily to ensure that sales staff have correct information at all times

Key achievements

To prove the impact you make in the workplace, finish the role with some achievements that have generated big positive results for the employer.

Ideally you should back these achievements up with facts and figures to give recruiters a measurable idea of the impact you made.

• Introduced new file storage system which allowed managers to access documents with 20% more speed and accuracy
• Resolved all data queries within 24 hour time period, reducing wait time by an average of 50%
• Delivered the HR project 3 months ahead of schedule and 15% below budget, saving £5k
• Achieved best regional sales record with 35 sales in a year and revenue of £75k

Achievements are crucial to your CV’s success, so I’ve put together the below video to help you understand them, and add them to your CV effectively.

Dealing with gaps in employment

Gaps in your CV can be off-putting for employers because it simply appears as though you have not been doing anything during that period – unless you state otherwise.

So, if you have any periods of unemployment that lasted over a month or so, then try to fill them with constructive activities to make yourself look proactive and positive. For example;

• Studying – With details of qualifications gained or working towards
• Travel – Great to demonstrate planning, organisation and people skills
• Volunteer roles or personal projects – e.g. caring for a family member, working for a community initiative

If you’ve had time out for personal reasons such as a serious illness, then don’t be worried about including it on your CV – employers should not discriminate against you for it. Just keep the detail light and focus on highlighting your value throughout the rest of your CV.

Adding your education

How and where you add your education will depend on your experience level.

Education section for experienced candidates

If you are an experienced candidate your education should be a relatively short section near the bottom of your CV – because recruiters will be more interested in your work experience, and will not spend much time reading your education section.

It should be a short bullet pointed list of your most important and relevant qualifications for the jobs you are applying to – you do not need to include every course you’ve ever taken.

Education section for candidates with little or no experience

If you have no experience or are a student , your education should be a much larger section and appear underneath your CV profile – this is because your education is where most of your skills and knowledge will come from.

It should be detailed list of your educational activities, including the institution names, dates studied, and grades achieved.

Typical points to include are:

• University degrees
• Vocational qualifications – work based qualifications that are specific to your industry
• General certificates – Such as criminal records checks or first aid courses

To counter your lack of work experience, you can include dissertations, school/university projects, exam modules etc. and endeavour to highlight the points that are relevant to the roles you are applying to.

Hobbies and interests

Your hobbies and interest are an entirely optional section and should only be added if they are somehow relevant to the jobs or companies you are applying to.

Generally speaking, they work best for candidates with no experience, to help demonstrate skills outside of the workplace through additional information .

Which hobbies to add to your CV

Some good hobbies to add to your CV are;

• Volunteering – Any volunteer work is normally a great addition to your CV, especially if t’s for a good cause, or it directly relates to your target roles. Either way there should be plenty of work-related skills you can highlight from volunteer work.
• Writing – Writing is a great communicative skill that is required in plenty of jobs, so if you have any personal writing hobbies (such as a blog or writing classes) then it can be worth mentioning them.
• Sports – Involvement in a fairly serious sports team or individual sport involves dedication, teamwork, and shows you have the ability to commit yourself to a cause.
• Strategy games – If you play in a chess league or similar equivalent, this can be a good way of showing recruiters that you are bright and tactful.
• Charity and events – If you have any involvement in the organising and planning of events in your spare time, it should definitely get a mention in your CV. Maybe you help to run an after-school club, or support the promoting of a local music event – lots of workplace skills can be drawn out of event planning hobbies.
• Travel – Some employers really love to see travel on a CV, especially the more modern trendy employers like Google and Facebook. Travel involve lots of planning, bravado, and teaches you a lot about different cultures and lifestyles.
• Practical work – This one applies mainly to candidates applying to engineering or trade roles, but if you have any hobbies that involve building or fixing things, it can be a great way to prove your ingenuity and technical know-how.

Which hobbies to keep out of your CV

The following hobbies probably aren’t going to make a huge difference to the success of your CV;

• Common pastimes – Common pastimes are essentially hobbies that 99% of the population take part in. Things like eating out, going to the cinema, reading or socialising. These hobbies will not set you apart from other candidates, so there’s no need to waste space on your CV by writing about them.
• Sensitive subjects – If you have hobbies that involve any subjects that could be considered sensitive (topics such as politics or religion) then I would advise leaving them out to be safe and ensure you don’t encounter any discrimination.
• Passive hobbies – Hobbies such as supporting a football team or watching television don’t require much input from you personally, so they will not impress employers.

Should you add your hobbies to your CV?

Candidates often ask whether or not they need to include their hobbies and interests on their CV and if they will actually make a difference in an application.

The answer depends on two aspects

• The role that you are applying for
• If your interests bear any relevance to that role.

If you are an experienced qualified doctor applying for a GP role, then adding your interests of going to the cinema or watching football will have little impact on your application – they just don’t add any value.

However, if you are a recent graduate applying for a management graduate scheme, but you have no relevant work experience, then adding a hobby such as captaining a football team, can actually be a great way to demonstrate leadership and organisation.

Interests are optional and in many cases, they won’t make a huge difference – but if you feel that they could make you appear more suitable and benefit your application, then you should include them.

CV Language

The language used in your CV should be professional, persuasive, descriptive and grammatically perfect throughout.

It should read like a sales brochure for a luxury product; leaving the reader desperate to call you, just in case they miss out on the opportunity of hiring you.

The language used in your CV gives recruiters an insight into your written communication skills and your professionalism, so make it count.

Avoid using basic language, because it makes you look like a basic candidate, when you need to look outstanding.

By basic language, I mean writing in a plain and non-descriptive fashion like this…

“I was working for the manager and helping out with various tasks across the business”

That looks dull, uninspiring and it doesn’t provide readers with a good understanding of what the candidate has done here.

However, you can reword the exact same responsibilities to be more descriptive and sound much more impressive, like this:

“Reporting directly to the manager, supporting a number of business critical administration functions”

This sounds a lot more professional and readers get a more precise idea of the candidate’s activities.

Even something like;

“Stacking shelves”

Can be improved to something like;

“Managing and analysing stock levels throughout the store to ensure that customers always have access to high demand products at peak times”

Although that’s an extreme example, it displays a better style of written communication and shows that you have an understanding of how the task affects the business at a higher level.

When writing your CV, ensure that you are using professional language at all times and fully describing your impact on employers.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

You can also head over to LinkedIn and run a search for similar professionals to yourself. Browse through a few profiles and look at the language being used for some inspiration.

You can also check out our list of 129 power words for your CV .

CV mistakes

It’s easy to make mistakes when writing your CV, especially if you are doing it for the first time.

Here are some common mistakes that you should really try to avoid making.

Not doing your research

If you fail to research your target jobs and employers before you write your CV, then you will not know what skills and knowledge recruiters are hoping to see.

This will make it almost impossible for you to create an effective CV.

Before you type on word on the document, do some thorough research and find out what the most in-demand talents in your field are – then try to reflect them throughout your CV as much as possible.

Unprofessional email address

Your CV is s professional document that is going to be reviewed by recruiters and senior business figures, so don’t brand the top of it with a silly email address. If you do, it will seem as though you are not taking your job search very seriously.

If you currently have a slightly embarrassing sounding email address, set up a new one for your job-hunting efforts.

Spelling and grammar mistakes

Nowadays spellcheck tools take care of the vast majority of spelling and grammar errors we might make – but don’t rely on them to do everything for you.

It only takes one silly mistake for an employer to start doubting your credibility, so make sure that you proofread your CV before sending it out to anybody – or get a friend or family member to check it if possible, and provide you with a different point of view.

Check out our full list of 39 damaging CV mistakes for more info.

You should avoid lying on your CV at all costs – if you get caught out, you could ruin your chances of landing a job.

Common CV questions

If you’re writing a CV you probably have lots of questions about how to get it right and ensure you get plenty of interview requests.

Here are my answers to some of the most common CV questions I hear.

How long should a CV be?

What does cv stand for, who reads your cv, how to write a good cv.

• What skills to put on a CV?

CV vs Resume?

Do i need a cover letter.

Whilst there is no official rule on CV length, your CV should be around 2 pages long .

In most cases, this should be enough room to give employers the information they want to see, in a quick and easy manner.

1 page will probably not be enough, and 3 pages could become a boring read for busy hiring managers – meaning important details could be missed.

If you go a little either side of this guidance, it will not be a deal-breaker for most recruiters – but try to stick to it as closely as possible.

There are some exceptions too.

• If you have little or no experience , then you could potentially get everything on to one page  – there’s no point in trying to drag the CV out, if you don’t need to
• Academic CVs ( researchers , lecturers etc.) tend to include more information than a standard CV, so they can stretch on to 3 or even 4 pages.
• Very experienced people (20 years +) may struggle to get everything on to 2 pages, so it is sometimes OK to spill on to the third page. Try not to go over 3.5 pages as it is unlikely recruiters or hiring managers will read beyond that stage in today’s job market.

The initials CV stand for curriculum vitae, which is Latin for “course of life” and loosely translates to a record of your career and achievements.

Believed to have been invented by Leonardo Davinci in 1482, they have since become a required document for job applications across the world.

When you send your CV off for a job application, it will normally be read by one or both of the following people:

• Recruiters – These are people whose job it is to find and screen potential staff for employer vacancies. They are responsible for placing job adverts, reviewing applicant CVs, and arranging interviews for successful candidates.
• Hiring managers – These are the managers within a company who are looking for staff to work directly in their team. If you apply for a job this is the person who you will ultimately be working for, so they have the final decision in whether or not to hire you.

Hiring managers and recruiters tend to be very busy people and will have lots of CVs to review for every vacancy. When writing your CV you should bear this in mind and try to create an easy reading experience for them which allows them to spot your suitability quickly.

The key to writing a good CV is to show recruiters and hiring managers that you are a perfect fit for the jobs you are applying for.

And you also need to present the information in a way that can be digested quickly by busy people who have hundreds of CVs to review.

By following the layout, format and content within this guide, anybody should be able to achieve this.

To stay on track, always remember the audience of your CV and its purpose when you are writing it.

What skills to put in a CV?

The type of skills you include in your CV will depend on your experience and the jobs you are applying for, but they will fall into one of two categories.

• Hard skills – These are industry specific skills that are measurable and important to a particular field or job (e.g. Speaking French, knowing how to use Microsoft Windows or technical drawing)
• Soft skills – These are more common personal skills that can be applied to most jobs (such as organisational skills , communication , teamwork ,  problem solving , and interpersonal skills )

For a full list of 108 skills for your CV and how to add them, check out our CV skills guide .

If you are wondering what the difference between a CV and a resume is, don’t worry – it’s really just two different terms for the same thing.

CV is the widely used term in the UK and Europe.

Whereas the US call a CV a “ resume ” along with Australia, New Zealand and some other countries.

If you are asked to send a resume for a job, it’s OK to send your CV.

Whenever you apply for a job you should always accompany your CV with a cover letter.

A cover letter is a brief note that you send to recruiters to introduce yourself, build rapport and encourage them to open your CV.

It should be written within the body of your email (or a job website’s messaging system) and only needs to be a few lines long (unless the employer has specifically requested something more detailed)

Check out our example cover letters or guide on how to write a cover letter for more guidance.

See also: Project manager cover letter – sales assistant cover letter – customer service cover letter – Teacher cover letter

CV examples

The best way to learn what makes a good CV is to study some real-life CV examples .

Here are some basic CV examples for inspiration and guidance.

CV with no experience

This is a CV written by a school leaver with no experience – demonstrating how a good CV can still be created in this instance.

• The CV is well formatted with a simple font and structure, clearly divided sections and plenty of bullet points.
• Despite the candidate’s lack of experience, they have still created an attractive CV profile that conveys their workplace potential, by summarising educational achievements and activities outside of school.
• They have included lots of detail in their education to counter their lack of experience and demonstrate transferable skills .

As student you will be applying for entry level roles, so you need to demonstrate your ability to contribute in the workplace through your education and limited work experience.

• The CV profile combines the candidate’s relevant qualifications and part time work-experience skills to catch recruiters’ attention.
• The core skills section highlights some of the most in-demand skills, so that employers do not miss them.
• Although the work experience is only a part-time shop role, it is well-structured and demonstrates how the candidate applies their skills to help their employer.

Experienced CV

As an experienced candidate, your work experience should be the focus of your CV, proving you can make a big impact for your employers.

• The CV profile provides a rounded overview of what the candidate can do for employers by blending skills, experience and qualifications.
• Core skills match the most important requirements for their target jobs – this ensures recruiters will take notice.
• Role descriptions are well-structured to provide an easy reading experience and quantified achievements show readers exactly how much impact the candidate has made.

More CV examples

Teaching assistant CV  –  Project manager CV  –  Digital CV  –   Customer service CV  –  Teacher CV  –  Waiter/waitress CV  –  Admin CV  –  Receptionist CV  –  Nursing CV  –  Academic CV  –  Basic CV template  –  Engineer CV

Browse all CV examples

Final checks

Once you’ve finished writing your CV, then make sure that you triple check it for errors before sending it out to anybody.

Nothing will put a recruiter off you more quickly than spelling errors, typos and grammatical mistakes.

Perhaps even ask a friend or family member to run through it to get a different perspective and ensure it all makes sense.

Also ensure that the CV sits at around 2 pages in length and that all the information is nicely broken up for ease of reading.

Don’t add any references to your CV because employers should not ask for them until offer stage.

Now you are ready to start job hunting, and sending your CV to employers with a tailored cover letter for each application.

Once you’ve started your job hunt, you can still make changes to your CV if you need to.

For example, you may want to tailor your CV when applying for different roles to further ensure that your CV matches each job advert.

You may find that certain areas of your CV are prompting negative feedback and will need to be modified in order to improve your chances.

Any adaptions you can make that lead to more interview requests, are worth making.

Hopefully, this guide will help you to create your own CV and start to land quality job interviews in your chosen field.

Good luck with your job search!

How to Write a Good CV in the UK (Examples, Tips, and Templates)

• · June 20 2024
• · 7 min read

Table of contents

In today's competitive job market, a successful curriculum vitae (CV) is essential to showcase your skills and experiences to potential employers. Ultimately, a CV is a personalised marketing document aimed at capturing employers' interest. Its primary focus is to align with your career goals by showcasing your professional background, qualifications, skills, and experiences. Whether you're an expert in your field or a recent graduate, this article provides valuable CV advice, examples, and tips to assist you in how to write a good CV.

Every great job begins with a great CV

Enhance your job application with CVMaker, the ultimate tool for creating a professional CV template tailored to your needs.

What to include in a CV?

There are certain must-have versus optional sections when writing a modern CV . The most important thing to remember is that a CV should be tailored towards your career goals and highlight your strengths . Therefore, selecting which templates to use also depends on which phase of your career you're in.

Consider the following must-have sections for a CV in the UK:

Personal details

Personal profile

Work experience

You may include additional sections if they are relevant. This includes but is not limited to:

Professional affiliations and memberships

Career achievements

Courses and certificates

Hobbies and interests

Professional training

Volunteering

Conferences 

Publications.

If you are just starting out, read more about how to write a CV for a first job .

What makes a successful CV?

An excellent CV should highlight your work experience, education, achievements, and relevant skills clearly and concisely. Additionally, tailoring your CV to match the job requirements you are applying for can greatly increase your chances of success.

The following sections delve into important considerations, including UK requirements and the naming conventions for different CV sections.

Personal details on a CV

A complete CV should always include personal details so that a recruiter or hiring manager can contact you. This section should be positioned at the top of your CV, and it's important to note that including a photo on a CV is not required in the UK. 

Required on a CV in the UK:

Location (town/city)

Phone number

Email address.

Optional information (if applicable):

LinkedIn profile

Link to your portfolio/website

Driving licence and type.

To be excluded:

Exact home address

Date of birth

Place of birth

Marital status

For more tips, refer to whether or not to include a photo on a CV .

Personal profile on a CV

A personal profile serves as an introductory statement summarising your professional background, education, goals, and key soft skills tailored to your desired job and industry. It should be concise, clear, and relevant to make a strong impression on employers, giving them a quick overview of your identity and career objectives. 

Retail CV personal profile example

Ambitious and customer-focused retail professional with over five years of experience in enhancing store turnover and productivity. Well-versed in staff training, coaching, and developing performance-driven teams. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with proven capabilities in problem-resolution, stakeholder engagement, and continuous process improvement.

Refer to the retail CV example or retail cover letter for more details.

Sales CV personal profile example

Customer-focused sales professional with 10+ years of experience in exceeding sales targets, spearheading new sales processes, and driving sustainable revenue growth within fast-paced environments. Influential leader, adept in delegating, training, and coaching cross-functional and performance-driven teams. Demonstrated track record in cultivating valuable business partnerships with proven success in implementing effective customer retention strategies.

Refer to the sales CV example or sales cover letter for more details.

For more guidance and examples, refer to how to write a personal profile that has over 30 examples to effectively showcase your soft skills and create a compelling personal profile.

Skills on a CV

Crafting the ideal CV involves tailoring it to align with your career goals, and the same principle applies to your skills section. The skills you put on a CV should be specific and relevant to the types of jobs you are targeting. If you find yourself unsure about which skills to include, seeking input from friends or colleagues can provide valuable insights into your top qualities.

Avoid common CV mistakes such as:

listing too many skills.

adding irrelevant skills.

neglecting the distinction between specific skills. 

The example below shows very specific skills for a bookkeeping role.

Selecting the right skills can be challenging, but researching and evaluating company expectations helps identify your expertise and determine which skills to include in your CV.

Language skills on a CV can be a great addition and are among some of the top skills employers look for .

Work experience on a CV

When it comes to work experience on a CV, it's important to consider that individuals have different levels of experience - some possess extensive backgrounds, while others are launching their careers. The main purpose of this section is to emphasise daily tasks, achievements, and pertinent background. Learn more about how to effectively showcase your work experience with the use of action verbs in this section.

A CV should always include recent work experience, focusing primarily on the past 10 to 15 years. Including irrelevant or outdated work experience can be detrimental to your job search, as it may make your CV excessively long. 

Include short-term or past experience in an additional experience section and elaborate on it during an interview.

Refer to how to write work experience on a CV for further guidance.

Education on a CV

This section plays a vital role in showcasing your qualifications and expertise, providing valuable information for prospective employers to assess your suitability for a position. It serves as a powerful differentiator, emphasising your dedication to personal and professional growth.

Education encompasses not only formal or tertiary education but also informal education. If you lack secondary or tertiary education, you can consider including relevant courses under the education section to make boost your CV.

Refer to our education on a CV article for more tips and examples.

Example of a good CV

Download this Designer CV sample in PDF

For more examples of a successful CV, refer to the following:

Accountant CV

Engineer CV

What is the best format for a CV?

The format of a good CV you choose relies on your unique career objectives and current circumstances. Nonetheless, the reverse chronological format is widely advised, where you start by listing your most recent experience and continue in descending order. Nevertheless, it's important to note that there isn't a universal format that applies to all situations.

For example, if you are transitioning to a new career, have taken a career break as a parent, or have recently embarked on a sabbatical, you may prefer to conceal any employment gaps and emphasise your skills. 

For more tips and different CV formats, refer to the below examples:

Chronological CV

Skills-based CV

Career change CV

Simple CV .

Modify the structure as necessary, considering your particular circumstances and the job requirements for which you are applying.

Refer to the CV Writing Process: Master CV versus Job-specific CV for more tips on what makes a successful master CV .

How to write a good CV with no experience

When creating a CV with no experience , highlight transferable skills, relevant coursework or projects, volunteer work, internships , or other experiences demonstrating your abilities and commitment. Emphasise your education, skills, and personal qualities that align with the job requirements. If you have no experience, are a recent graduate, or are transitioning into a new career, it may be best to opt for a skills-based CV. For more examples, refer to the following:

School leaver

Undergraduate.

10 common mistakes to avoid on a CV

When crafting a CV, it is essential to present yourself in the best possible light. However, many candidates make mistakes that can detract from their professionalism and reduce their chances of securing an interview.

Spelling and grammatical errors.

Too much or too little information.

Poor formatting and layout.

Lack of specific achievements.

Using a generic CV for all applications.

Including irrelevant details.

Unprofessional email address.

Using generic statements

Ignoring keywords from the job description.

Outdated contact information.

Key takeaways 

To create a perfect CV, it's important to customise it according to your career goals and ensure it is applicant tracking system (ATS) friendly . Using a generic CV is unlikely to pass through ATS, and recruiters or hiring managers may perceive it as a lack of attentiveness to the job description, resulting in rejection. 

Next steps?

If you're still unsure about how to structure your CV or what information to include, visit our extensive range of cover letter templates and CV examples for inspiration. Learn more about the ideal cover letter length to accompany your CV. Check out our tips for sending your CV via email to take the final steps with your job application! Alternatively, you can consult with an expert at CVMaker for our CV Writing Service.

How do I navigate gaps in my CV?

There might be various reasons for gaps; perhaps you took a career break or had personal matters that required time off. Either way, hope is not lost, as we have provided key tips on how to explain unemployment gaps on a CV or after being made redundant .

Where can I get help with my CV?

CV Maker is an all-in-one career platform that aims to simplify the job search process for all users. With an easy-to-use builder and career advice, you can now also write professional career documents including matching cover letters.

How many pages should a good CV be?

The universal length for a CV is generally two pages. However, this can vary depending on your level of experience and job requirements. If you have extensive experience or a lengthy publication record, a CV may exceed two pages, especially if you are creating an academic CV . Conversely, if you are a recent graduate or have limited experience as a school leaver, a one-page CV is suitable. Explore more tips on how long a CV should be.

How to check if my CV is good?

Ensure that the information included aligns with the job you are applying for.

Check for clear and concise language, avoiding excessive jargon.

Ensure a consistent and visually appealing layout, with appropriate use of headings, bullet points, and white space.

Double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors.

Assess if your CV effectively showcases your skills, experiences, and achievements in a compelling way.

You can find more tips in our how to improve your CV blog article.

How to lay out a good CV?

Use a clear and professional font.

Maintain consistent formatting throughout the document.

Organise content with clear section headings.

Prioritise the most relevant information and place it prominently.

Utilise white space effectively for visual appeal.

Consider using a well-designed CV template for guidance and consistency.

Discover more tips, such as the best font for your CV or the best colour for your CV .

Should I use AI to write my CV?

Using AI for your CV can be beneficial as it can help streamline the process and ensure key details are highlighted effectively. However, it's essential to review and personalise the content to ensure it accurately represents your skills and experiences.

What is the first thing employers notice on a CV?

Employers first notice the overall layout and the top section of a CV, including the candidate's name, contact information, and personal profile. This initial impression influences whether they continue reading.

How far back should a CV go?

We suggest to focus on the past 10 years and only include relevant experience. Adding outdated or irrelevant jobs can make your CV too long and might impact your application. Keep it relevant and concise!

Should you put your address on a CV?

In general, it's better to not include your full address on a CV. However, you can mention the town or city to show that you are living nearby. If you are thinking about relocating you can mention this is your cover letter. For remote jobs, it's still useful for recruiters to know a location but again, you don't have to add your entire address.

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More From Forbes

5 cv formatting tactics for standing out.

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Securing a senior-level position can be a challenging endeavour, especially in today’s competitive job market.

With countless CVs competing for attention, understanding what makes a candidate stand out is crucial.

Here are five essential tactics to ensure your senior-level CV catches the eye of recruiters and secures you an interview for that coveted role.

Highlight strategic leadership and impact

At a senior level, demonstrating your strategic leadership capabilities is paramount. Employers are looking for leaders who can drive the business forward and create tangible results.

Your CV should reflect this by showcasing your experience in strategic planning, decision-making, and team leadership.

Replace basic skills with high-impact competencies relevant to senior roles, such as strategic planning, change management, and business development. Use powerful action verbs and quantify your achievements.

For example, "Implemented a strategic initiative that increased revenue by 20%" is more impactful than "Responsible for revenue growth."

Showcase your unique value proposition (UVP)

Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP) is what sets you apart from other candidates. This is not just about what you have done, but how you have done it and the unique benefits you bring to the table.

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Identify what makes you unique. This could be a particular expertise, a noteworthy achievement, or a specific leadership style.

Weave your UVP throughout your CV. Start with a compelling personal profile that highlights your most impressive achievements and build on this in your employment history. Use keywords and specific examples to back up your claims.

Your CV is your first opportunity to make a lasting impression.

Demonstrate results with data

Senior roles demand proof of past success, and nothing speaks louder than numbers.

Use metrics to provide concrete evidence of your accomplishments. This not only highlights your effectiveness but also shows your ability to deliver results.

Include data wherever possible throughout your CV. For instance, "Led a project that reduced costs by 15%" or "Increased market share by 10% over three years."

Highlight major achievements in each role, focusing on those that align with the job you are applying for.

This makes it easier for recruiters to see your potential impact on their organisation, and will make them far more eager to interview you.

Emphasise professional development and affiliations

Senior professionals are often involved in continuous learning and are members of professional bodies. These affiliations and ongoing education demonstrate your commitment to your field and your dedication to professional growth.

List relevant professional memberships and certifications prominently. For example, memberships with The Chartered Institute for IT or a CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma.

If these credentials are particularly relevant, consider placing them alongside your name at the top of your CV or within your personal profile.

Optimise for readability and ATS compatibility

A well-formatted CV is crucial, not only for human readers but also for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Ensure your CV is easy to read and scan, both visually and electronically. Use a clean, professional layout with clear headings, subheadings, and bullet points, and avoid overly creative designs that might hinder readability.

Ensure your CV is ATS-friendly by incorporating relevant keywords from the job description and avoiding complex graphics.

Stick to a simple, traditional format that showcases your skills and experience clearly. Keep your CV to a maximum of two pages, focusing on the most relevant and recent experience.

Creating a standout senior-level CV requires a strategic approach. By highlighting your leadership capabilities, unique value proposition, and concrete results, you can demonstrate your suitability for high-level roles.

Additionally, emphasising your professional development and ensuring your CV is both readable and ATS-compatible will further increase your chances of success.

Remember, your CV is your first opportunity to make a lasting impression. Follow these tactics to ensure it reflects your strengths and positions you as the ideal candidate for any senior-level position.

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How to Write a Perfect Resume in 2024: The Ultimate Guide

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Learn how to stand out from the pack with these resume writing best practices.

10 min read · Mar 28

One of the most unexpected side effects of the pandemic is that it has created what is being referred to as a talent shortage. Corporations are struggling to fill open positions ranging from retail and food service all the way up to executive leadership roles. Hence, top CV writing to stand out as the perfect candidate is essential.

What caused the talent shortage is open for debate—but it’s clear that for the foreseeable future, the tide has shifted in the favor of workers. Employers are going out of their way to sweeten the deal and attract new talent, and that could mean more money, better benefits, and perks that you wouldn’t otherwise be entitled to.

Even if you’re happy with your current role, it might be a good time to test the waters and see what other companies are offering for your skillset. This of course will require you to have an up to date resume. If the thought of updating your resume is daunting, consider seeking help from professionals who can efficiently write apa papers for me .

I am a professional writer, and I am the first to admit that in the past, writing my resume has been very challenging. Just like crafting a compelling PhD research proposal writing service , Summarizing my entire work experience into a few succinct sentences and bullet points is incredibly frustrating. I obviously know what I do and what I bring to the table, so why isn’t it coming across in this all-important document that is supposed to be the summation of my worth as a professional?

Here are my tips and tricks of the trade that I’ve learned to take me from barely being able to cobble together my own resume, to someone who helps people with their resumes professionally.

Keep It to a Single Page

I thought this one was universally known, but you might be surprised at how many 2 page resumes I see come across my desk.

It's tempting to include everything you've ever done in your resume. Especially if it’s experience that you’re proud of. But you need to shift your focus from what you like, to what your target audience will like. In this scenario, your target audience is your prospective employer, and you should be tailoring your resume with relevant information for the role that you’re applying for.

If you’re applying to be an accountant, your prospective employer doesn’t need to know that you were employee of the month at Barnes & Noble in 2012. You have a very short amount of time to make an impression with your resume, so you want to be sure that the recruiter or HR professional is noticing your most valuable and important experience. If you can’t keep it to one page, you’re more than likely sharing irrelevant or unhelpful information.

The exception to this rule is if you're applying for a high-level job that requires extensive experience. In that case, a two-page resume may be more appropriate—but I would still urge you to try your best to fit it all onto one page. Anything you can’t fit just becomes a talking point for you during the interview process.

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Choose a Simple But Attractive Template

Finding the right template can be tricky, because you don’t want your resume to blend in with the other applicants. You don’t want it to be a sterile black and white document that looks like a jury summons, but you also don’t want it to be loud and colorful like an invitation to a kid’s birthday party.

Websites like Canva can help you to find a nice template (like the one shown above) that will help you stand out more than the worn out templates that came free with your Microsoft Office purchase.

Tailor Your Resume to the Specific Job Opening

Rather than using the same exact resume for every job application, your resume should be tailored to each position. You don't need to completely re-do it each time, but be sure that you're hitting on the key points for that specific job.

Carefully read the job description and qualifications. Be sure that your resume addresses and emphasizes how you match up with the experience and skills they're looking for. It's a good idea to use the same terms and language in your resume that’s used in the job listing.

Know What Makes You Different

Standing out from the crowd is essential when it comes to job applications. You want to be memorable, in a good way. You can do this by highlighting what makes you different from everyone else.

What are your unique skills and experiences? What do you have to offer that no one else does? Don't be afraid to brag a little bit on your resume. This is your chance to sell yourself and show the recruiter why you're the best candidate for the job.

If you can’t think of anything that makes you different, it might be time to acquire a new skill through an e-learning platform like skillshare .

Focus on Your Specific Results

The keyword here is specific.

Above all else, hiring managers love to see verifiable results and accomplishments. Did you raise sales by 25%? Did you exceed your revenue goals? Did you reduce the costs of your department by 40%?

Don’t just rattle off a series of your daily tasks. Give me specific examples of how you are making a difference and give me the numbers or stats.

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Choose the Appropriate Format (Chronological or Functional)

This is another critical step in creating a resume. There are two main formats: chronological and functional.

• Chronological - List your work history, starting with your current position and going back to previous ones.
• Functional - Focuses on skills rather than work history. It's more of a skills-based approach as opposed to highlighting past positions. However, some people think this kind of resume can be harder to create as it requires a thorough understanding of one's own abilities.

Chronological format is most common, but a functional approach is also an option if you prefer to highlight and emphasize specific skills over your work experience.

Make Sure Your Resume is ATS-Friendly

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are used by HR professionals to sort through resumes. This ensures that all candidates are being looked at equally and helps the process go much faster. It's important for your resume to be ATS-friendly, meaning it needs to have certain keywords and formats in order to catch the attention of the automated system.

Since employers and recruiters will be scanning for keywords, think about the words and phrases they're likely to use to identify candidates for a particular position (these keywords are probably used in the job listing or description), and include those words and phrases in your resume. This is another reason why it's critical to customize your resume for each job.

Having a resume that is ATS-friendly also involves:

• Using both long-form and abbreviated versions of keywords (you don't know which they'll be searching for).
• Avoid tables and columns, which can be problematic for scanners.
• Using the standard or common headers and sections for a resume.

Double Check for Spelling and Grammatical Errors

This one goes without saying, but I do see a number of resumes that have errors.

I recommend reading your resume out loud, and having at least one friend or family member help you to proofread.

Submit the Resume as a PDF

When submitting your resume, be sure to save it as a PDF. This will ensure that the formatting stays the same and that there are no errors.

Additionally, many employers are cautious to open certain file types due to cyber security concerns, while PDFs are generally viewed as safe.

In some cases, you may be requested to submit the resume in a specific format, like .docx. If the job listing requests the resume in a different format, of course, you should follow the instructions. But if there is no suggested format, PDF is a safe choice.

Final Thoughts on Resume Best Practices

Following these resume best practices will help you create a document that stands out and catches the attention of potential employers. Keep in mind however, that your resume only gets your foot in the door, and you’ll also need to brush up on your interview skills .

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is it recommended to keep a resume to a single page?

It's recommended to keep a resume to a single page to ensure that potential employers focus on your most valuable and relevant experience. A concise resume ensures that only pertinent information is presented, making it easier for recruiters or HR professionals to assess your qualifications quickly. This is especially important considering the limited time hiring managers spend on initial resume reviews. For positions requiring extensive experience, a two-page resume might be acceptable, but effort should still be made to condense information to one page if possible.

How can choosing the right resume template make a difference?

Choosing the right resume template can help your application stand out from the crowd. A simple yet attractive template can make your resume more appealing visually, ensuring it doesn't blend in with others or appear unprofessional. Websites like Canva offer diverse templates that balance professionalism with distinctiveness, aiding in making a positive first impression on potential employers.

Why is tailoring your resume to the specific job opening important?

Tailoring your resume for each job opening is crucial because it allows you to highlight how your experience and skills directly align with the job requirements. Customizing your resume according to the job description ensures that you emphasize the most relevant aspects of your background, making it easier for employers to see why you are a strong candidate for the position. Using language and terms from the job listing can further align your resume with what the employer is seeking.

What does focusing on specific results in your resume achieve?

Focusing on specific results in your resume, such as quantifiable achievements and accomplishments, shows potential employers the tangible impact you have had in your previous roles. This approach shifts the focus from your daily tasks to the outcomes of your work, providing clear evidence of your skills and effectiveness. Highlighting specific results can make your resume more compelling and demonstrate your potential value to the company.

How can you ensure your resume is ATS-friendly?

Ensuring your resume is ATS-friendly involves including relevant keywords from the job listing, avoiding complex formatting elements like tables and columns, and using standard headers and sections. An ATS-friendly resume increases the likelihood that your application will be successfully parsed and reviewed by hiring managers, as many companies use applicant tracking systems to screen resumes. Proper formatting and keyword optimization help ensure your resume is not overlooked by these automated systems.

What are the benefits of submitting your resume as a PDF?

Submitting your resume as a PDF ensures that the formatting remains intact regardless of the device or software used by the employer to view the document. PDFs are also generally regarded as safe to open, reducing cybersecurity concerns. While some employers may request resumes in a specific format, a PDF is a safe and professional choice when no format is specified, contributing to a positive presentation of your application.

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Resume Dos and Don’ts: How To Write a Great Resume

Monday, October 18, 2021

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Resumes are crucial in the world of business. When you’re applying for a job, your resume is often the first thing a potential employer looks at. How you present yourself in your resume could be the difference between landing the job of your dreams and not getting invited in for an interview. So how can you go about grabbing an employer’s attention? Experts at the Carlson School’s Graduate Business Career Center shared some dos and don’ts for your next job search.  

Look For Keywords When you’re putting together your resume for a job, pay careful attention to the job postings that interest you. Look for keywords in the job description and include those words—or examples of your experiences in those areas—where relevant in your experience or skills sections.

Be Specific About Your Career Accomplishments Instead of only listing your job duties in your experience section, highlight some of your major accomplishments, and be specific. Instead of saying you “increased sales,” include by how much and over what time frame. Writing you “increased sales by 33% in the first six months” lets hiring managers know much more about both your experience and your job performance.

Use Active Language While being specific, be sure to use active language without extraneous words. If your resume is too long or can be hard to read in places, shorten your sentences with more powerful words and ideas that are more concise. Simple sentences with easy-to-understand terms are the way to go.

Proofread Your Resume This may seem like a simple step, but giving your resume another look or having a friend read it over can go a long way. An embarrassing typo or mistake could cost you a chance to interview.  

Make Your Resume Too Long Unless you’re at the C-suite level, most resumes should be one or two pages long. Hiring managers may be looking over dozens or even hundreds of resumes for the same position, so write in a concise manner. The strongest resumes are often brief and to the point.

Include Experience That Is Not Relevant Unless it’s an entry-level position, there likely is no reason to include your experience as a summer lifeguard. Keep your experience on your resume relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Use Cliche or Jargon Unless they’re specifically mentioned in the job description, avoid cliche phrases like “team player” or “detail-oriented.” Many of these types of phrases are overused and ring hollow nowadays.

Include Your GPA  If you have years of experience in your industry, hiring managers likely don’t need this information. Many will only care about your highest level of education and what and where you studied.

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7 Best Resume Writing Services (+ Which Are Worth It)

3 key takeaways

• There's a wide range of professional resume writing services ranging from executive to budget.
• While job seekers often pay per resume with a professional writer, AI resume builders allow you to quickly create and optimize several versions to each job, presenting a more cost-efficient alternative.
• Teal’s AI Resume Builder is unlike most resume writing services in that it allows you to tailor your resume to every single job application using keyword matching and scoring. 

One of the biggest questions surrounding resume writing services is whether or not they’re worth it. 

The answer: it varies.

If you’re new to the job market and your resume is fairly simple, or you are working with a lower budget, you might not need a dedicated resume writer.

But if you’re looking to tailor you’re resume for the job, while meeting ATS (applicant tracking systems) readability standards , then you might need a professionally-written resume. 

This article compares some of the best resume writing services, where you can hire them, and how to choose the right one for you.

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free.

Types of resume writing services

While the goal of professional resume writing services is to create a resume that’ll land you a job, each type of resume service goes about it differently.

Resume writing services from a company

Larger companies that employ hundreds of freelance resume writers are a popular choice for many job seekers with a decent budget and a longer timeline with their applications.

The benefit of this type is the company is optionality. Some may even have in-house writers dedicated to your specific industry or role and can provide insights into previously successful resumes. 

Some resume writing services are large enough that they don’t dedicate one person or team to your account. Instead, you’ll have multiple people working on your resume, and the communication between them might not be stellar. They also might keyword stuff rather than weaving them in naturally.

One job seeker from Reddit shared their experience using a professional resume writing service: 

“I went with a resume writing service, and they clearly outsourced it to a country where English is not the most commonly spoken language. It was terrible and rife with errors. Luckily, I got my money back.”

Specialized resume writing services

These are services dedicated either to your industry or career level, such as executive resume writing services, which often offer career training as well. 

These services often have a directory of writers they vet and certify to write resumes for their specific industries, so you know you’re getting a professional. Typically, you’ll have a dedicated writer or team rather than subcontracted writers, editors, and reviewers.

Cons of specialized resume writing services

While they’re more tailored and often include specific skills to help you land more interviews, they tend to be more costly. You might also have deal with delays in your ability to apply, as you go through a series of interviews with the service to ensure they’re truly capturing your work experience.

Resume writers

You can, of course, hire a professional resume writer that is unaffiliated with any company. These writers often work for themselves as a freelancer or small business, and have niched down into one particular area of resume writing.

Cons of working with a professional resume writer

While they might have specialized industry knowledge, they're likely not familiar with the nuances of modern hiring tech or recruiting. They could just be a good writer that passed a training program to become certified in resume writing.

Teal’s Director of Talent, Mike Peditto, echoes this with his statement:

"Some resume writers rely on a bit more of an outdated style that puts a large focus on visual appeal above the user experience of the reader. They often rely heavily on graphics, charts, tables or other design tactics that not only may get lost in an ATS, but also tend to focus on the items a recruiter doesn't need to see right away. This can be be more distracting than valuable to somebody quickly doing a pass through of the resume looking for key information."

Building a resume with a resume builder

A resume builder is a tool that allows you to create and customize your resume again to match the position you’re applying for. 

This can be advantageous, since you understand your work history and industry better than anyone else. You also know which skills you want to highlight more depending on the role and how well you match it. 

Another benefit is cost per resume. You can create as many resumes as you’d like, allowing you to tailor the resume to every single application. Whereas most services will provide you with one polished resume that isn’t tailored to a specific role, unless you’ve requested such. 

Cons of using a resume builder

If your writing skills aren’t strong, you might not fully highlight your skills and experience without the help of AI features, not available in every resume builder. And while AI will assist in the writing, you will still want to personalize it. Teal gives you the best of both worlds with AI writing and ability to pull keywords from the job description, allowing you to better tailor each resume at scale.

You also might need to rely on templates to ensure you’re using the correct formatting to meet standards for an ATS.

7 top resume writing services

Calling anything “the best” is subjective to the criteria. Our criteria for determining the best writing services includes:

• Speedy delivery
• Good pricing
• Writing skills commensurate with your level of education, expertise, and career

No recruiter or hiring manager is going to spend ages pouring over the details of your resume. But they will still notice typos, glaring grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies. 

Worse, your resume won’t get a second glance at all if your experience and skills don’t jump off the page and scream, “I’m the one for the job”. 

So, you need a professional resume service that understands your work history and how to highlight your experience, for the right price, so you can apply before the window of opportunity closes. 

Below are nine of the best resume services available right now:

• Best executive resume writing service
• Best resume writing services online
• Best-rated resume writing services
• Best affordable resume writing services

Best AI-powered resume builder

Best specialty resume writing services.

• Best resume writing service with additional professional packages
• Best resume service with quick turnaround time

Best executive resume writing service: Executive Resume Writers

TopResume is one of the most well-known resume writing services for executives. However, the negative experiences around their services have been widely recounted in online reviews and forums. 

If you want a true executive service, consider Executive Resume Writers.

Their clients have found work at Capital One, Dell, Google, Humana, Salesforce, Morgan Stanley, and dozens of other recognizable corporations.

They’re professional resume writers have written for a wide range of executive titles, from VP & Managing Director to President and CEO. 

Industry specializations

• Arts & Entertainment
• Financial Services
• Hospitality
• Information Services
• Manufacturing
• Other Industry
• Professional and Technical Services
• Public Administration
• Real Estate
• Retail Trade

Other services offered

Beyond their expertise in writing resumes for the executive level, they also offer: 

• LinkedIn optimization
• Interview preparation
• Career coaching

Cost: While Executive Resume Writers doesn't explicitly list their pricing, they do offer a range of $2,000 to $5,000.

Best-rated resume writing service: TopStack

Searching for professional resume writing services with the best ratings compared to the number of ratings and reviews, you find that TopStack lives up to its name by coming up top. They have a 4.8 star rating with 1,968 reviews on Trustpilot—more than any other resume writing service (excluding AI resume builders).

They have an incredibly simple process from filling out your initial intake form to assigning you to one of their experienced, US-based writers within 1-2 days. If you need to expedited the order, they’re able to accommodate if you alert them to this. 

Once assigned, they give their writers 48 hours to turn in a first draft. You may get up to two revisions of your resume after you’ve paid for your first draft. 

TopStack does not name list their staff publicly. Instead, they state they have experts in every single industry :

“Our team of 100+ professional writers have worked with clients in all industries and at all experience levels. In the (very) rare event that we don't have someone with experience writing in your field, we'll reach out to you after placing an order.” 

Other services

• LinkedIn profile development
• Cover letters
• Personal recruiting
• Career consulting

TopStack offers four different payment options. Their most basic package is $139, and their most expensive is $1149, paid on a monthly basis as it includes a personal recruiter that’ll go beyond the call to find you a job.

Best affordable resume writing service: ZipJob

ZipJob is one of the most affordable resume writing services that still offer professional writers and a decent turnaround of three to seven days. They back up their services with a guarantee that you land an interview within 60 days.

What sets them apart, aside from the low price, is that they grant you unfettered access to your professional resume writer.

ZipJob employs a roster of over 100 professional resume writers that have worked in Fortune 500 recruiting, career coaching, HR, and job placement, aside from resume writing. 

ZipJob has specialists in over 65 industries, including:

• Free resume review
• LinkedIn profile optimization

Cost: $139 to $299

Best resume writing service by offering: Let’s Eat, Grandma

While the name might bring on a laugh, Let’s Eat, Grandma is all serious when it comes to resume writing packages. 

Their most affordable service is fairly basic, offering a 30 minute one-on-one consultation, well-crafted resume, and two revisions. Their most extensive package of the four includes nine services, such as executive career coaching and unlimited revisions.

If you’re working on a shorter timeline for applying to positions, they might not be your best choice, as you’ll receive your first draft in about a week and the two revisions after an additional week.

But if you’re looking for a resume writing service that offers more than the average service, with true professionals at a decent price (and aren’t on a time restraint), Let’s Eat, Grandma is a great option. 

While they do not list their industries, it’s safe to assume they work with a wide range of clients.

• Executive resume
• Value proposition letter
• Digital guide to cold emails & thank-you notes
• Executive LinkedIn profile rewrite
• Access to a dedicated customer success representative
• 10 days of unlimited revisions
• 4x the talk time with your writer
• 60-minute executive career coaching session
• Guaranteed senior writer for executives
• Job search strategy meeting
• Career roadblock office hours
• Strategic applicant guide
• LinkedIn profile rewrite
• Resume critique

Cost: $439 to $1,899

Best resume service by speed: The Job Sauce

The Job Sauce doesn’t use their quick turnaround as a selling point but, nonetheless, they get you in front of an assigned writer within one business day. The work is fast yet skilled, and even their most basic package comes packed with bonus features.

Members get an industry-specific writer, a LinkedIn best practices guide, and lifetime webinar access. If you upgrade to the more premium package, you get services like training in salary negotiation and clarity coaching.

Industry specialization

They don’t list the industries they serve, but they do mention that they provide an industry-specific writer. 

‍ Other services

• Upgraded results-driven resume
• Applicant tracking systems optimized
• LinkedIn best practice guide
• Industry-specific professional writer
• Quick turnaround time
• Lifetime webinar access
• Premium assessments
• Two 60-minute calls
• Clarity on next steps
• Interview coaching
• Job offer coaching

Cost: $369 to 799

When it comes to specialty resume writing services, it only makes sense to highlight a few different services, considering the wide range of specializations.

Find My Profession is a great federal resume writing service that happens to specialize in C-Suite resume writing services.

ResuMeds is a top choice resume writing service for medical professionals. They’re fairly priced with a rate of $100 to 225 and have a turnaround time of three days.

iCareer Solutions offers professional resume writing services for IT, fintech, and software professionals. They won first place for Information Technology Resume Writing in the 2019 TORI Awards (Toast Of the Résumé Industry) from Career Directors International (CDI).

• Medical professionals
• C-suite executives
• Federal employees
• IT professionals
• Software engineering
• Data analytics
• Programming
• System analytics
• Cover letter writing
• LinkedIn makeover
• Professional bio
• Networking resume
• Resume distribution
• US recruiters listing

Cost: $100 to 1500

Want the advantages of a specialized resume writing service without the service cost and wait time? Teal’s match scoring makes it easy to compare your resume to a job description . 

While hiring a professional resume writing service is a great option for those with a higher budget, more technical needs, and less-confident writing skills, they aren’t the only option for creating a high-powered resume. 

An AI-powered resume builder like Teal is a great option if you're applying to multiple jobs and need to tailor every resume to the job descriptions. 

The AI identifies the keywords as well as soft and hard skills within a job description, highlighting them for you and scoring your resume based on how well it matches.

Teal’s AI Professional Summary considers both the job you’re applying for and your work experience to tailor a professional resume that highlights the ten percent of you that's 100 percent relevant to each job.

A lot of resume writers and job seekers make the mistake of simply listing their responsibilities and tasks on their resume, versus the outcomes they’ve produced. The AI achievements feature in Teal is the answer to that. This feature pulls out specific accomplishments, such as cutting spend for your company or reducing expenses by 20 percent. 

Industry specialties

Teal is an online resume building tool usable by any job seeker in any industry, for any level of experience. 

• Job Application Tracker
• Resume Checker
• Cover letter Generator
• LinkedIn Profile Review
• Autofill Job Applications
• Resume Bullet Point Generator
• Professional Bio Generator
• Career Personality Test
• Career Goal Tracker
• Networking CRM
• Job Search Chrome Extension
• Job Application Email Templates
• Resume Templates
• Resume and Cover Letter Examples

Cost: Free to $9 per week

Is it worth paying for resume writing service?

From looking at loads of reviews and services, it’s easy to tell that the answer doesn’t just depend on your situation, but on the service you choose.

The larger resume services that promise the lowest prices and the fastest turnarounds tend to make customers feel scammed. Customers have largely noted that their work was outsourced and the writers didn’t incorporate feedback or understand their work history. 

In this case, using an AI resume builder like Teal helps you not only tailor one resume, but hundreds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What companies provide the best-rated resume writing service.

TopStack is highly rated with a 4.8-star rating on Trustpilot. Executive Resume Writers are known for their success with high-level positions at companies like Google and Morgan Stanley. ZipJob offers affordable and professional resume writing with a 60-day interview guarantee.

What are the pros and cons of paying for resume writing?

Pros include professional writers crafting tailored, ATS-friendly resumes. Cons include the risk of poor quality from outsourced services and higher costs. Additionally, there's no job guarantee.

What is the best resume writer service?

Executive Resume Writers are ideal for high-level positions. TopStack is great for general professional resumes with positive customer feedback. ZipJob is best for budget-friendly, professional resume writing.

Paying for a resume service can increase your chances of passing ATS and impressing recruiters. The value depends on the quality of the service chosen. High-rated services are more likely to deliver worthwhile results.

How much does a resume writing service cost?

Basic services start around $139, like those from ZipJob. Mid-range services, such as TopStack, range from $139 to $1,149. High-end executive services can cost between $2,000 and $5,000. In comparison, AI resume builders like Teal start at $9/week.

Sarah Colley

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