Resume Writing Tips
Create a standout resume that gets you noticed by employers and beats applicant tracking systems.
Resume Fundamentals
Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers. Here are the essential elements of an effective resume.
Keep it concise
Most recruiters spend less than 10 seconds scanning a resume initially. Limit your resume to 1-2 pages, focusing on relevant experience and achievements.
Use a clean, professional format
Choose a simple, readable font (Arial, Calibri, Helvetica) in 10-12pt size. Use consistent formatting for headings, bullet points, and spacing.
Tailor for each job
Customize your resume for each position by highlighting relevant skills and experience that match the job description.
Focus on achievements
Instead of just listing job duties, emphasize your accomplishments with quantifiable results (e.g., "Increased sales by 20%" rather than "Responsible for sales").
Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid
- Including irrelevant personal information (age, marital status, etc.)
- Using generic objectives or summaries
- Including outdated experience (over 15 years old)
- Using unprofessional email addresses
- Typos and grammatical errors
Resume Checklist
Contact Information
Name, phone, email, LinkedIn, location
Professional Summary
Brief overview of your experience and strengths
Work Experience
Job titles, companies, dates, achievements
Education
Degrees, institutions, graduation dates
Skills
Technical and soft skills relevant to the position
Achievements
Awards, certifications, notable projects
Resume Format Types
Chronological
Lists work history in reverse chronological order. Best for candidates with a consistent work history in the same field.
Functional
Emphasizes skills and abilities rather than work history. Good for career changers or those with employment gaps.
Combination
Blends chronological and functional formats. Highlights relevant skills while providing a solid work history.
Ready to Create Your Perfect Resume?
Use our templates and tips to craft a resume that gets you noticed by employers.