A resume, sometimes also known as a Curriculum Vitae (CV), is a necessary
formal document
for job seeking process. A strong resume can help grab the attention of employers and can be the key to landing an interview. But "what is a resume?" you might ask. In this blog post, we'll share with you all-thing resumes, from its definition and types to writing tips and best practices
for creating a compelling one, whether you are a recent graduate or already an experienced professional, or even someone who wants to transition to a new career, this blog will provide you with the essential knowledge and resume builder tools to create a standout resume.Table of Contents
What Is a Resume?
How to Choose the Best Resume
Format
11 Essential Resume Section (+Examples)
Which Resume Templates Should I Use?
5 Writing Tips
for a Convincing Resume
Example of a Good Resume
KeyTakeaways
What Is a Resume?The term resume (or résumé) is a French-derive word that means a summary, and that's essentially what a resume is: a one-page document summarizing applicants' skills, work experience, educational background, and in
formation that are relevant to the job you're applying
for.
With that being said, “what is the primary purpose of a resume,” then, you might ask?
Straight
forwardly, a resume is often used to help you get a job, isn't it? True, but not really. While it won't guarantee employment, a well-crafted resume can help you secure an interview by showcasing your skills and qualifications. This one-page document is your opportunity to make a positive first impression, sell yourself, and convince your potential employers that you're the most suitable candidate
for the vacancy, and demonstrate what you can bring to the table. Although it's recommended to tailor your resume to each job you apply
for, some core elements should always be present. Resume vs. CV: What Are the Main Differences?In some countries, the term "resume" is often used interchangeably with "curriculum vitae" (CV) despite their slight differences: while a resume is a summary of your relevant skills and qualifications
for a particular position, a CV is more about your course of life as it contains a detailed academic record that includes all of your professional experiences, certifications, publications, and achievement.A simpler curriculum vitae's definition is that CVs are commonly used by those pursuing fellowships, grants, postdoctoral positions, teaching or research positions at the post-secondary level, or in high-level research positions in the industry. While graduate school applications may request a CV, they generally prefer a resume that includes details of research projects and publications.Suppose you plan to apply
for both academic and private or public sector industries; you'll need to create both documents. If you're unsure which document to submit
for a job application, it's always best to ask
for clarification.
How to Choose the Best Resume
Format
There are three main resume
formats—chronological, functional, and combination resume. Each
format serves different purposes based on work history and the job applied
for. Let's break down the definition of each so that you can pick the most suitable
format that suits your needs best.
1. Reverse chronological resume
Resume
Format: Reverse ChronologicalResume
Format
A chronological resume, also known as a reverse chronological resume,is a resume
format that lists your work experience from the latest to the oldest. By highlighting the most recent experience, employers can check if you've been working in the same industry or a similar position so that they can save training ef
fort after hire. The more relevant you are, the more competitive edge you gain.This resume is most suitable
for those who have been working in the same industry or the same profession and have years of experience. Fresh grads who have several internship experiences can also leverage this resume
format, as it's one of the most common resume types.ProsRecruiters are often familiar with this resume
format.Recruiters can scan through the highlighted professional experience more easily.You can showcase your work experience and achievements in the most logical way.ConsThe layout and
format are commonly used, which makes it hard to stand out, especially in the creative industry.There is not much emphasis on one’s relevant skills and capabilities.Job-changing histories and employment gaps are accentuated.
2. Functional resume
Resume
Format: Functional Resume
Format
If you want to highlight your skills, then a functional resume
format is what you should consider. Instead of focusing on the work experience, a functional resume helps highlight your skills and how they'll benefit the job you're applying
for.Unlike the chronological resume
format, the functional one lists your skills as the main section, with work and experience and other details following afterward. One tip
for writing an effective functional resume is that the details of the skills mentioned should also be included as sub-points. If you're a job hopper or someone who's planning to change careers, changeindustry or has an employment gap that you prefer not to show the employer, a functional resume will be the perfect choice
for you.Pros
Highlight your skills effectively, giving recruiters more in
formation on how you can benefit their companies.
Hide employment gaps.
De-emphasize the job hopping scene, which can negatively impact recruiters' decisions.
Be flexible, as you can make more subtle changes.Cons
It might draw the employer’s attention to the covered-up work experience.
It cannot show career growth.
Recruiters might not be familiar with the
format.
3. Combination resume
Resume
Format: Combination Resume
FormatAs the name suggests, a combination resume is a
format that combines elements of both chronological and functional resumes, including work experience and relevant skills. It is also commonly referred to as a hybrid resume.This type of resume
format is very flexible as it allows you to adjust to the job vacancy's requirements. It doesn't matter if you have much or negligible working experience; this hybrid resume
format can balance out the in
formation to present yourself better.ProsAllows you to utilize your in
formation to the needs of a position fully.Allows you to avoid including employment gaps.Can impress employers with detailed qualifications and skills.ConsCareer growth is not shown at first sight.The design might be overcrowded if the layout is not well-crafted.Traditional employers might not accept it.
11 Essential Resume Elements SectionsA resume serves as your first impression to potential employers be
fore any face-to-face interaction, so understanding what to include is crucial. Here are the key elements that should be on your resume and how to write them:Resume HeaderResume header is the top section that contains your essential in
formation. Typically, it includes your full name, phone number, professional email address. You can also consider adding your LinkedIn profile and other relevant professional social media handles. Having these details prominently displayed allows employers to contact you
for further in
formation quickly or to schedule an interview.Make sure that this in
formation is accurate and up-to-date, as it is the primary means employers will communicate with you.
💡 Pro tip:Professional headshots are optional and depend on industry, job, and company requirements. So, make sure to check those details out be
fore including your headshot in.
Resume SummaryA resume summary or
bio often follows a resume header. While the header contains your basic in
formation, the summary or
bio section provides a brief overview of your professional background, fundamental skills, and career objectives (sometimes people like to opt out of the resume summary but only keep the career objectives; again, this is entirely up to you and your goals).This summary should be concise and tailored to the job you are applying
for, offering a snapshot of what makes you a strong candidate.
💡 Pro tip:Avoid making vague statements; if you don't have anything significant to share about your career objectives, it's better not to mention them.
By placing the summary below the header, you create a logical flow that quickly in
forms employers about who you are and what you bring to the table. Here are some examples of good resume summary paragraph:"Experienced IT professional with over 8 years of expertise in systems administration, network management, and cybersecurity. Proficient in managing large-scale IT projects, optimizing system per
formance, and implementing robust security protocols. Strong problem-solving skills with a proven track record of enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring
data integrity in fast-paced environments."
"Creative marketing specialist with 5 years of experience in digital marketing, content creation, and brand management. Skilled in developing and executing marketing campaigns that drive engagement and increase sales. Proficient in SEO, social media strategy, and
data analytics. Adept at leveraging market trends to deliver compelling messages and grow brand presence.""Dedicated early childhood teacher with 6 years of experience nurturing young minds in preschool and kindergarten settings. Passionate about fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports the developmental needs of each child. Skilled in curriculum development, classroom management, and engaging parents in the educational process. Committed to cultivating curiosity and a love of learning in every student."Educational background
If you are a fresher,your educational background will be fundamental as it helps recruiters to have a general idea of who you are, based on your majors and GPA/grades.When listing education in your resume, make sure to include the school name, the attendance year, degree, and GPA.
💡 Pro tip: Only include your GPA if it is above 3 or 3.5.
Here are some examples of how you should
format the educational background section:EDUCATIONALBACKGROUND
Master of Science in Computer Science
University of Cali
fornia, Berkeley, CA
Graduated: May 2016Bachelor of Science in In
formation Technology
Stan
ford University, Stan
ford, CA
Graduated: May 2014
EDUCATIONALBACKGROUND
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing
New York University, New York, NY
Graduated: May 2019Associate Degree in Communications
Community College of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
Graduated: May 2017
EDUCATIONALBACKGROUND
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education
University of Georgia, Athens, GA
Graduated: May 2024
Relevant Coursework:
Child Psychology and Development
Classroom Management StrategiesEarly Literacy InstructionCurriculum Planning and AssessmentInclusive Education PracticesEducational Technology in Early Childhood
Work Experience
The working experience section is the main part of your resume (most of the time). When employers review the working experience section, they typically focus on four main things: your previous job title, the company you worked
for, your primary responsibilities and the duration of your employment. But extra in
formation about your achievement will gain you competitive edge.
For instance, if you assisted your previous employers in acquiring 10,000 potential customers from their most recent conference, you may want to provide a brief overview of the event and outline the actions you took to achieve this result.Here is an example of how you can include work experience on your resume:
WORK EXPERIENCE
Digital Marketing Manager—XYZ Agency,New York, NY(September 2019 - Present)
Develop and execute digital marketing strategies across multiple channels, including social media, email, and PPC advertising.
Analyze campaign per
formance metrics and leverage
data insights to optimize marketing ef
forts and drive ROI.
Lead a team of marketing professionals in the creation of compelling content and engaging campaigns.
Collaborate with clients to understand their business objectives and tailor marketing strategies to meet their needs.
Marketing Coordinator—ABC Company, Chicago, IL(June 2017 - August 2019)
Assisted in the development and implementation of marketing campaigns to increase brand awareness and generate leads.
Managed company social media accounts to build brand loyalty and drive engagement.
Conducted market research and competitor analysis to identify trends and opportunities
for growth.Coordinated marketing events and promotions, including trade shows, conferences, and product launches.
📚 Further reading: Haven't gotten any working experience yet? Learn How to Include Projects in Resumes (Samples, Tips, Templates)Skills
One thing you can do to make your resume go from ordinary to exceptional is to include relevant skills. The selected skills need to be pertinent to who you are and the jobs you're applying
for.The skills included should categorize into hard skills and soft skills.
Hard skills are technical knowledge that you can acquire through training and practice. These skills are often measurable;
for example, proficiency in specific software applications or programming languages qualifies as hard skills.
Meanwhile, soft skills are personality traits that make you a good fit
for the position. These traits are subjective and may be challenging to quantify in terms of proficiency. Examples of soft skills include strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate seamlessly within a team.
Certifications licenses
Certain professions, such asaccountant, teacher, and civil engineer require official certifications or licenses. These credentials are not only regulatory requirements but also serve as powerful indicators of your credibility and qualifications
for roles with high-level education prerequisites.Here are examples of how to can include certifications and licenses on your resume:Certifications and LicensesCertified Public Accountant (CPA), State Board of Accountancy, Cali
fornia, 2019Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), CFA Institute, 2024
Certifications and LicensesEarly Childhood Education Credential, National Association
for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), 2022Teaching Certificate, Cali
fornia Department of Education, 2023
Certifications and LicensesProfessional Engineer (PE) License, Cali
fornia State Board of Professional Engineers, 2021LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP), U.S. Green Building Council, 2020
Language skills
Being bilingual or multilingual is beneficial because employers want someone who can represent the company overseas or work with
foreign partners and clients. Including yourlanguage skillson your resume can greatly enhance your appeal to employers.Don't
forget to include your proficiency level: native, bilingual proficiency, professional working proficiency, or elementary level. Be sure to specify your proficiency level—whether native, bilingual proficiency, professional working proficiency, or elementary level—providing valuable insight into your language abilities. This demonstrates your capacity to navigate diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes, underscoring your readiness
for cross-border responsibilities.
Awards honors
Awards and honors from competitions can be an impressive addition to your resume, especially if you’re a fresh graduate looking
for a job. If you received any awards or honors
for either outstanding academic or non-academic per
formance, mention them both.
Volunteer
Volunteer work shows your kind-hearted personality and how you apply certain skills to practice. You can list volunteer work experiences on your resume and details of what you've done. Remember that the skills applied in volunteer work should be related to the position you're applying
for.Here's how you can include volunteer experience on your resume:Animal Shelter Volunteer
Assisted with daily care tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and exercising animals.Provided support during adoption events, interacting with potential adopters and facilitating successful matches.Utilized strong communication skills to educate visitors about responsible pet ownership and shelter programs.
Relevant Skills Demonstrated:
Animal care and handlingCustomer serviceCommunication skillsTeamwork and collaboration
Publications
If you've written a thesis, contributed to a journal or research, or published books, articles, or news, you can provide in
formation about these publications on your resume. This illustrates professional knowledge of a certain topic and can be part of your portfolio.
Projects
Including details of projects you've worked on on your resume provides employers with valuable insights into your accomplishments and practical application of skills.This not only showcases your abilities but also offers employers a clearer understanding of your level of experience.
For recent graduates or individuals with limited work experience, elaborating on projects can serve as a substitute
for traditional work experience, demonstrating your capability to undertake real-world tasks and contribute meaningfully to projects. By highlighting specific project contributions and outcomes, you effectively convey your potential and readiness to excel in a professional setting.
Which Resume Templates Should I Use?Created by CakeWhen applying
for a job, having a well-crafted resume can help you stand out among other applicants. The layout and design of a resume can make a significant difference in how potential employers receive it. There
fore, it's crucial to choose a resume template that is both visually appealing and functional.Opt
for a resume template that:1) Clear and Easy-to-Read
Format:Utilizes clean and modern design elements to enhance readability.Consistent
formatting and organization
for a professional appearance.Adequate white space to avoid clutter and improve visual appeal.2) Sections
for Key In
formation:Education: Includes details of academic qualifications, such as degrees, diplomas, and certifications.
Work Experience: Highlights professional background, with clear details of your job titles, company names, dates of employment, and key responsibilities.
Skills: Showcases relevant technical and soft skills essential
for the targeted job role.
Accomplishments: Provides space to highlight notable achievements and contributions in previous roles.3) Emphasis on Skills and Experience:
Prioritizes showcasing relevant skills and experiences tailored to the job requirements.
Utilizes action verbs and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate competency and effectiveness.
Highlights transferable skills and experiences applicable across various roles and industries.4) Customizable and Versatile:
Allows
for easy customization to tailor the resume to specific job applications.Adaptable to showcase diverse skill sets and experiences
for different career paths.Compatible with applicant tracking systems (ATS)
for seamless resume submission and parsing.
Cake offers a diverse selection of 50+ free ATS-friendly resume templates and snippets designed to meet your needs. With our intuitive drag-and-drop editor, you can easily customize your resume by rearranging sections to your liking. The best part? You can download your finalized resume in PDF
format at no cost or share it online with ease. Ready to elevate your job application? Sign up
for Cake today!5 Writing Tips
for a Good Resume
Here are some tips that not only create an outstanding resume but will also help you look good on a resume:
1. Customize your resume to match the job description
While your resume is meant to showcase who you are as a potential employee, employers also have specific requirements they seek in candidates. As such, it's crucial to tailor your resume to include relevant in
formation that aligns with the job description while excluding those that don't.
2. Proofread again and again
Given the high number of resumes that hiring managers receive, they can easily spot even the slightest error. Thus, to avoid such mistakes, always proofread your resume be
fore submitting it.
3. Utilize action words
Action words are constructive in showcasing what you have done in previous jobs. Thus, utilizing them when highlighting your skills and achievements is advisable as they can significantly impact how employers view and understand you.
4. Use relevant keywords
For big companies that receive thousands of resumes,Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) can help filter out applications by identifying keywords that match the job requirements. There
fore, incorporating relevant keywords is crucial. The best way to identify relevant keywords is by referring to the job description
for skill-related keywords and incorporating them accordingly.
5. Maintain a clean and well-organized resume
format
A well-organized resume
format can enhance readability and help hiring managers locate in
formation quickly. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Maintain 1-inch margins on all sides of the document.Use an appropriate font size (11pt or 12pt) and style.Group related in
formation under different sections
for better viewing.Use bullet points to highlight key details. 📚 Further reading:10 Best Resume Fonts
for ATS-friendly Resumes (Correct Font Size, Type, Style)Resume Example
Now that you know what to include in a resume, all about resume templates and
format, it’s time
for us to show you what a concise resume should look like! Check this out:
Peter Simson
Developmental Editor
098-1234567 Taoyuan city
[email protected]
RESUME SUMMARY
A 3-year experience English lecturer at National Taiwan University(NTU). Seeking a career change to a developmental editor to extend my skills into different fields. Planning to join the editor field and help authors refine their works while learning more different skills.
WORK EXPERIENCE
English Lecturer National Taipei University (NTU) 2016 - 2022
Taught university
students English writing classes.Judged and organized English writing competitions.Counseled
students who needed help.
Freelance Translator 2015 - 2020
Translated advertisements
for multiple companies.Proofread translation works from other translators.Focused on English - Chinese translations.
EDUCATION
National Taiwan University (NTU)
Foreign Languages and Applied Linguistics2012 - 2015
GPA 3.9/4.0
SKILLS
Hard Skills:
Microsoft OfficeCommunication skillsTime management skillsOrganizational skillsAttention to detail
Soft Skills:
Problem-solving skillsEmotional intelligenceOpenness to feedbackPatienceEnthusiasm
Language Skills:
English: FluentChinese: NativeFrench: IntermediateKey TakeawaysNow that you know the resume definition, here are some key takeaways that you should keep in mind: a resume is a critical document that summarizes your education, work experience, skills, and achievements. It is an essential tool that helps you present yourself to potential employers and showcase your suitability
for a specific job position. The in
formation presented in your resume should be tailored to the job description to demonstrate how you can add value to the organization.
Cake is a free online resume builder that is useful
for anyone looking to create an online presence, whether you’re a recent graduate, a freelancer, or an established professional looking to showcase your work. With the help of Cake’s rich library of resume templates and online resources, crafting an outstanding, ATS-friendly resume has never been easier. Following the tips and guidelines outlined in this blog, you can create a compelling resume highlighting your unique skills and experience, increasing your chances of landing your dream job.Cake is aresume builder that allows users to create professional online resumes and portfolios, which can also serve as personal web pages. With its simple and intuitive interface, users can ef
fortlessly build their professional online resumes and portfolios and showcase their skills and accomplishments to potential recruiters and employers.
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--- Originally written by Ryan Goh---