How to Write a Resume: Tips and Best Practices

Creating a resume that stands out to potential employers is a crucial step in any job application process. A well-crafted resume highlights your skills, experiences, and accomplishments, presenting you as the ideal candidate for the position.

Get inspiration for your CV with this downloadable resume sample. You can also read below for some essential tips and best practices to guide you through writing an effective resume.

1. Choose the Right Format

There are three main resume formats to choose from:

• Chronological: Lists work experience in reverse chronological order. It is ideal for those with a steady work history.
• Functional: Focuses on skills and experiences rather than work history. Suitable for those with gaps in employment or changing careers.
• Combination: A hybrid of the chronological and functional formats. Great for those with a strong work history and relevant skills.

2. Include Essential Sections

Your resume should include the following sections:

• Contact Information: Include your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile. Ensure your email address is professional.
• Professional Summary or Objective: A brief statement summarizing your experience, skills, and what you aim to achieve in your next role.
• Work Experience: List your job titles, company names, locations, and dates of employment. Include bullet points highlighting your key responsibilities and accomplishments.
• Education: Include your degrees, institutions, graduation dates, and any relevant coursework or honors.
• Skills: Highlight relevant skills, both technical and soft skills, that are pertinent to the job you’re applying for.
• Certifications and Awards: Mention any certifications, licenses, or awards that demonstrate your qualifications and achievements.

3. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job

Customize your resume for each job application by aligning your skills and experiences with the job description. Use keywords from the job posting to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and to show hiring managers that you are a perfect fit.

4. Highlight Achievements, Not Just Duties

When describing your work experience, focus on your achievements rather than simply listing your job duties. Use quantifiable metrics to showcase your impact, such as “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 10 people.”

5. Use Action Verbs

To make your resume more dynamic and engaging, start each bullet point with a strong action verb. Examples of action verbs include “led,” “developed,” “implemented,” “created,” and “enhanced.”

6. Keep It Concise

Your resume should be clear and concise. Aim for one page if you have less than ten years of experience. If you have more experience, two pages are acceptable, but ensure every detail is relevant and adds value.

7. Make It Visually Appealing

Use a clean, professional layout with consistent formatting. Choose a readable font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and use font sizes between 10-12 points. Use bullet points and bold headings to improve readability.

8. Proofread Thoroughly

A resume with typos or grammatical errors can create a negative impression. Proofread your resume multiple times and consider asking a friend or a professional to review it as well.

9. Include Relevant Keywords

Incorporate keywords from the job description throughout your resume. This can help you pass through ATS and catch the attention of hiring managers who are scanning for specific skills and qualifications.

10. Add a Cover Letter

While not part of the resume itself, a well-written cover letter can complement your resume and provide additional context about your experience and interest in the position. Tailor your cover letter to each job application, just as you do with your resume.

Resume Writing Tips

• Keep it one page ( Max two)
• Use numbers to demonstrate your impact (e.g., “Increased customer satisfaction by 15%”).
• Focus on results, highlight what you achieved, not just your responsibilities.
• Maintain a professional tone and avoid casual language or humor.
• Keep your resume current, adding new skills and experiences as you gain them.

Conclusion

Writing an effective resume requires attention to detail, customization for each job application, and a clear presentation of your qualifications. By following this guide and incorporating these tips, you can create a resume that stands out to employers and helps you secure the job you desire.