A resume header is one of the most important yet often overlooked parts of a professional resume. Recruiters typically spend only a few seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to continue reading. Because of this, the header section must immediately communicate who you are and how an employer can contact you.
If you are creating your resume in Microsoft Word, designing a clean and professional header is easier than many people think. However, beginners frequently make formatting mistakes that can make a resume look unprofessional or even cause it to fail applicant tracking systems (ATS).
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn exactly how to create a powerful Resume Header In Microsoft Word that grabs attention, improves readability, and increases your chances of landing interviews. We will cover formatting techniques, step-by-step instructions, examples, common mistakes, and advanced tips used by professional resume writers.
Whether you are writing your first resume, updating an old one, or helping someone else with theirs, this guide will give you everything you need. If you need additional support, our resume specialists can help optimize your documents professionally. Simply register on our website to receive personalized guidance and expert feedback.
Let’s begin with the fundamentals of a resume header and why it matters.
A resume header is the top section of your resume that contains your name and contact information. It is the first thing recruiters see when they open your resume, which makes it one of the most critical elements of the document.
The primary purpose of the header is simple: ensure employers can easily identify and contact you. However, a well-designed header also contributes to the overall visual structure of the resume.
Recruiters often skim resumes quickly. A clearly structured header helps them instantly recognize the candidate's identity and professionalism.
The header always appears at the top of the document and typically includes:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Your full name in a larger font |
| Phone Number | Primary contact number |
| Professional email address | |
| Location | City and state (optional full address) |
| Professional profile link |
If you are writing a resume for a specialized profession, such as medical imaging, reviewing examples like an professional ultrasound technician resume can help you understand how headers are structured in industry-specific documents.
If you're unsure whether your header is optimized for recruiters or ATS systems, our specialists can review it for you. Simply register on our website and receive professional feedback.
While resume headers are relatively simple, they must include the right information. Too little information may make it difficult for employers to contact you, while too much can clutter the design.
| Component | Required | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Yes | Emily Johnson |
| Phone Number | Yes | (555) 123-4567 |
| Email Address | Yes | emily.johnson@email.com |
| Location | Recommended | Chicago, IL |
| LinkedIn Profile | Recommended | linkedin.com/in/emilyjohnson |
| Portfolio | Optional | portfolio.com/emily |
Remember that your resume header works together with the rest of your application. Strong wording throughout your document also matters. If you want to improve your language, explore tips on choosing powerful resume words.
Microsoft Word is one of the most commonly used tools for creating resumes. Fortunately, it provides several simple ways to design a professional header.
Tables help organize information cleanly.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert a 2-column table |
| 2 | Place your name in the left column |
| 3 | Place contact info in the right column |
| 4 | Remove the table borders |
Word also includes built-in resume templates. These templates automatically format headers and sections.
If you need help structuring your resume or cover letter, our experts can assist. Simply register on our website to receive personalized resume guidance.
A strong header is not only about the information you include but also how it looks visually. Good formatting improves readability and professionalism.
| Element | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Font | Calibri, Arial, or Helvetica |
| Name Size | 16–20 pt |
| Contact Info Size | 10–12 pt |
| Spacing | Balanced margins |
For example:
John Smith
Chicago, IL | 555-123-4567 | johnsmith@email.com | linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
If you’re applying for administrative roles, reviewing examples like administrative assistant resume skills can help ensure your header aligns with the rest of your resume structure.
Different industries may use slightly different header styles.
Michael Carter
New York, NY | (555) 123-4567 | michael.carter@email.com | linkedin.com/in/michaelcarter
Sophia Martinez
Graphic Designer
sophiamartinez@email.com | portfolio.com/sophia
Daniel Kim
Boston, MA | danielkim@email.com | linkedin.com/in/danielkim
Students and graduates should also focus on strong application documents such as a cover letter for a student services position or a cover letter addressing key selection criteria.
If you want a professionally designed resume header tailored to your career goals, our specialists can help. Just register on our website to start working with our experts.
While headers are simple, small improvements can dramatically enhance your resume’s impact.
If you're working with international resumes, examples like French Net resume formatting can help you understand regional differences.
A resume header should include your name, phone number, professional email, and location.
No. ATS systems may ignore content placed in Word’s header field.
Typically 16–20 pt to create a clear visual hierarchy.
Yes, if your LinkedIn profile is professional and updated.
Yes, especially for creative or technical professions.
Yes, all resumes require a header regardless of experience level.
Ideally 1–2 lines of concise contact information.
Absolutely. Our specialists can review and optimize your resume. Simply register on our website to get started.