Creating a resume in 2019 required balancing traditional professionalism with modern readability. Whether you were entering the workforce, changing careers, or updating your current resume, understanding the key elements of the 2019 resume format was crucial. A well-structured resume could significantly increase your chances of landing interviews, as hiring managers often spend mere seconds scanning each document.
The 2019 resume format emphasized clean layouts, optimized typography, and clear sections highlighting skills, experience, and achievements. Unlike older formats, which often relied on dense text blocks, modern resumes used bullet points, action verbs, and concise descriptions to make information digestible. Additionally, incorporating relevant keywords tailored to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) became essential for passing automated resume filters.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the 2019 resume format, including layout recommendations, font choices, section prioritization, and common mistakes to avoid. We will also provide practical examples, tables, checklists, and expert advice to ensure your resume stands out. For those seeking professional assistance, our specialists can help optimize your resume—simply register on our website to get started.
The first step in crafting a 2019 resume is understanding its purpose and essential elements. At its core, a resume should provide a clear snapshot of your qualifications, experience, and skills tailored to the job you’re applying for.
Always tailor your resume for each job application. Use keywords from the job description to enhance ATS compatibility.
In 2019, the visual appeal of your resume played a major role in readability. Recruiters preferred formats that were easy to scan, had clear headings, and minimal distractions.
Font choice affects both readability and aesthetic appeal. Popular 2019 fonts included Calibri, Arial, and Helvetica. Avoid decorative fonts. For guidance on choosing the ideal font for your resume, see our detailed Best Font for Resume 2020 article.
| Layout Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chronological | Lists work experience from most recent to oldest. | Professionals with consistent work history. |
| Functional | Focuses on skills and achievements rather than work chronology. | Career changers or individuals with gaps in employment. |
| Combination | Mix of chronological and functional. | Applicants who want to highlight both experience and skills. |
Maintain margins of 0.5–1 inch and use bullet points to increase readability. Our specialists can review your resume format—register here for professional guidance.
Even with the perfect layout, content quality is paramount. Focus on clarity, brevity, and relevance.
List each job with the company name, location, dates, and position title. Use bullet points to highlight accomplishments.
| Action Verb | Example |
|---|---|
| Managed | Managed a team of 10 to increase sales by 20% |
| Implemented | Implemented a new software solution that reduced processing time by 30% |
| Developed | Developed training materials for onboarding new employees |
Include degrees, institutions, and graduation dates. Highlight relevant certifications. For example, if you're applying to educational roles, our Learning and Development Resume guide can provide tailored advice.
Depending on your career, include sections like volunteer experience, awards, or publications. If applying to graduate programs, see our Cover Letter for Graduate School Application guide for complementary tips.
Here’s an example of a clean 2019 resume structure:
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Header | John Doe | johndoe@email.com | (123) 456-7890 | LinkedIn Profile |
| Summary | Experienced project manager with 5+ years leading cross-functional teams. Skilled in process optimization and client relations. |
| Experience |
|
| Education | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, University of Example, 2015 |
| Skills | Project Management, Communication, Agile Methodologies, MS Office |
Tailor your resume for each position rather than sending a generic copy. This significantly increases your chances of catching a recruiter’s attention.
If you have military experience, learn how to incorporate it effectively in your resume with our Military Service on Resume guide.
| Skill Area | Action Verbs |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Led, Supervised, Mentored |
| Project Management | Planned, Coordinated, Executed |
| Technical | Implemented, Developed, Analyzed |
Focus on quantifiable achievements rather than generic duties. For instance, instead of “Responsible for sales,” write “Increased sales by 20% over 6 months.”
Use concise bullet points, ideally one line per achievement. Our team can review your bullet points for maximum impact—register now.
In summary, the 2019 resume format focused on clarity, structure, and ATS optimization. By following best practices in layout, content, and design, your resume can stand out in a competitive job market. Remember, our specialists are ready to provide personalized assistance—simply register today to enhance your resume.
For specialized roles, you might also explore tailored guides like Surgical Tech Resume, Entry-Level Environmental Engineer Cover Letter, and Learning and Development Resume to optimize your application further.