Crafting a compelling resume is the first step to landing your dream job. But many job seekers often ask, "What should be on your resume?" This question is critical because your resume is more than a summary of your work experience—it's your personal marketing document. A well-structured resume highlights your skills, achievements, and potential, helping you stand out in a competitive job market.
In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about creating a high-impact resume, including the essential sections, formatting tips, common mistakes to avoid, and expert advice to maximize your chances of getting noticed. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, understanding what to include on your resume can make a significant difference.
Our specialists can help you craft a resume tailored to your goals. You can register here to get personalized assistance from our team.
Knowing what should be on your resume starts with understanding the key sections that recruiters expect. A comprehensive resume should typically include:
This is a brief 2–4 sentence section summarizing your experience, skills, and career goals. Tailor it to the role you are applying for. For example:
Experienced marketing professional with 5+ years in digital campaigns, content creation, and brand strategy. Skilled in SEO, analytics, and social media management. Seeking to leverage expertise to grow audience engagement for a forward-thinking company.
Highlight your most relevant jobs with achievements, responsibilities, and measurable results. Use bullet points and action verbs. Example:
| Company | Position | Duration | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC Corp | Marketing Specialist | 2019–2023 | Increased website traffic by 40% and social media engagement by 30% |
Include both technical and soft skills relevant to the role. Example:
Optional sections can enhance your resume depending on your field:
Even the strongest content can be overlooked if the resume is poorly formatted. Here are key tips:
Limit your resume to 1–2 pages. Focus on achievements over responsibilities. Recruiters spend an average of 6 seconds reviewing each resume, so clarity is critical.
Bullet points help structure information and make it easier to read. Headings should be bold or slightly larger than body text.
Fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman are easy to read. Avoid decorative fonts that distract from content.
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Use relevant keywords from the job description to improve visibility.
Numbers and statistics make your accomplishments tangible. For instance: "Increased sales by 25% in 6 months."
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use action verbs and metrics | Write long paragraphs without quantifiable results |
| Tailor resume for each job | Use generic resume for all applications |
| Proofread multiple times | Submit with typos or grammatical errors |
For inspiration, check our creative resume samples or client services resume examples.
Even minor errors can reduce credibility. Always proofread or ask a specialist to review your resume. Our experts can help—you can register here for assistance.
Including irrelevant details can distract from your core skills. Focus on achievements that align with the job.
Create a simple email address that includes your name rather than nicknames or numbers.
Even if switching industries, emphasize skills that apply to multiple roles, such as project management or communication.
Use supplemental documents like cover letters or a video resume for teachers to stand out.
Include links to online portfolios or past projects. This is particularly relevant for creative roles. Check letter back cover examples for inspiration.
Creating a standout resume takes time and strategy. By including the right sections, following formatting best practices, avoiding common mistakes, and leveraging expert advice, you can maximize your chances of landing your dream job. Remember, our specialists are ready to help you craft a resume that gets noticed—register today.