Resume writing guideline and tips in 2023 Crafting a professional resume is crucial to make a good first impression on potential employers. However, job seekers may need guidance to create an impressive resume that captures recruiters' interest. Fear not, as Cake — thebest resume builder, is here to guide you through the process of writing a professional resume in 2023. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know to write and create an astounding resume that can help you land your next career move. 📌 TABLE OF CONTENT What Is a Resume? Resume Writing Do's and Don'ts 9 Must-Have Resume Sections The Best Resume Builder What Is a Resume?A resume is a brief summary of skills, experience, and education. Its purpose is to impress potential employers and lead to an interview. While it won't guarantee employment, a well-crafted resume can convince potential employers of suitability for the job. In order to do so, you'll need to have 9 essential key sections on your resume. Keep reading to find out what they are!It's important to note that a resume and a CV serve different purposes. While a resume is typically used for job applications, a CV is usually used for academic pursuits such as post-graduate or PhD programs.You can create a resume using many different tools, like the traditional Microsoft Word,design tool like Canva, or resume builder like Cake. Later one, we’ll instruct you to choose the best online resume builder that is not only free but also help you with all you need! 📖 Further reading: What is a resume? [Definition, elements, writing tips, and examples] Resume Writing Do's and Don'tsWhen writing a resume, there are two common issues that bother us all. Whether you’re a seasoned employee with years of work experience or a fresher who just graduated with no work experience. They are: “What to include in a resume?” and“What NOT to include in a resume?” A professional resume should be able to serve its ultimate purpose, which is to help you land interviews. After reviewing your resume, recruiters and hiring managers should at least be able to learn the three following information:Is the candidate qualified for this job position in terms of skills, knowledge, and experience?What can the candidate contribute to the company based on previous work experience and achievements?How to contact the candidate if they’re qualified? In order to do so, there are five fundamental sections you must include in your resume in order for it to be deemed as “good.” They are:Contact InformationWork ExperienceEducationSkills (technical soft)Achievements and Awards While you can skip sections such as interests and hobbies, some jobs might require it. So you can read this article to know about theoccasions when it's suitable to mention hobbies and interests. What to Include in a Resume:Contact InformationProfile Summary / Career ObjectiveEducationWork ExperienceSkills and QualificationsAwards and AchievementsWhat to Exclude from a Resume:Marital statusPhoto (headshot)Religious preferenceIrrelevant ExperienceHobbies and InterestsComplete mailing address 📙 Further reading:5 Essential Steps to Build A Convincing Resume | Resume Building Guideline 9 Must-Have Resume Sections 1.Resume headline/title A resume headline which is located in the header section of a resume, summarizes your working experience, strengths, and qualifications. It is often used to show recruiters that you’re a perfect fit for the vacancy. To quickly catch the recruiters’ eye, remember to carefully tailor your resume headline/title according to the job applied Here’re some tips for you to refer to while writing a resume headline/title:Utilize keywords: You can refer to the job post and read the description carefully. What are the required qualifications or skills? If you have any of the skills or experience the employer’s looking for, include them in the headline.Keep it concise: A resume title should be short but concise. An ideal headline should be within 10 words.Customize: It is necessary to customize the headline for each resume when you are applying for different job positions since every company has diverse job requirements (even when they’re hiring for the same profession!).Capitalize: In order to catch a hiring manager’s attention quickly, it’s suggested to capitalize the headline. 💡 TIPSWhile adding certain details, such as a profile picture or personal background, may enhance your resume, they can also become a deal-breaker in some cases. As a rule of thumb, only include information that is directly relevant to the job requirements. Adding photos or personal details are typically unnecessary unless specifically requested by the employer. If you still have no idea how to write a professional resume title, here are 2 easy formulas for you: Resume headline writing formulas: 📍 [An adjective describing your personal trait] + [Job title] + with + [Experience] 📍 [An adjective describing your personal trait] + [Job title] + Skilled in/Specializing in + [Skill/Qualification] Resume headline examples:Creative Digital Marketer Specializing in SEODetail-Oriented Baby Sitter with First Aid TrainingMultilingual Translator Skilled in Website TranslationChartered Accountant with Analytical and Interpersonal SkillsGoal-Oriented Sales Representative with 5 Years of Experience in FMCG 📚Further reading:Resume Headline｜Examples, Templates, Writing Guide 2. Resume summary/Resume career objectives A professional resume objective can be seen as an extension of your resume headline, more like a resume summary statement. Initially, a career objective on a resume was used to express a job seeker's professional aspirations. Nowadays, the purpose of a resume objective has evolved to become a concise summary of a candidate's qualifications and achievements, highlighting what they can bring to the table. On the other hand, a resume summary is a brief paragraph consisting of 2 to 3 sentences that encapsulate the candidate's relevant qualifications, career objectives, and desired job title. It should emphasize the candidate's skills, experiences, current job search status, and career vision to grab the attention of potential employers. 💡 TIPS It is suggested that freshers and career changers include a career objective or summary in their resume. Like resume titles, resume summaries, and objectives are not strictly required for a resume. However, a good summary/objective can spice up your resume and catch the attention of recruiters. A good resume summary and objectives should be concise, eye-catching, and, most importantly, should be closely related to the job position and the culture of the company you’re applying for.  Concise, eye-catching, and most importantly, it should be closely related to the job position and the culture of the company you’re applying for. How to write a summary/objective for a resume?Keywords: Read through the job post carefully and collect keywords of required skills, experience, and personal traits that match yours. Use them wisely in the personal statement to catch a recruiter’s (or an applicant tracking system’s!) attention.Growth (optional):State your career goals and how the job/company can help you achieve them.Value: Instead of only gabbling about what you can gain from the company, an employer cares more about how you can add value to the company.Accomplishment: Remember to include your accomplishment at work to beef up your objective statement. It can be certification, license, and award that’s relevant to the position. If you would like to highlight any outstanding work performances in the past, don’t forget to utilize numbers!Place at the top: Depending on the format, a career objective should be placed under the resume title or contact information. Here are 2 simple formulas for freshers and career changers to write a good resume objective/summary:  Resume objective writing formula for freshers: 📍 [Your major] graduate with [required skills for the position] skills.Currently seeking a position as a [job title] at [company name], to [career goal].Gained [required experience or ability] experience at [academic/extra-curricular activities], receiving/achieving [achievements or awards]. Career objective example for freshers: Computer Science graduate with proven front-end coding skills. Currently seeking a position as a Frontend Developer at Amazon to leverage coding UX skills to help improve user experience and conversion rate. Gained application development experience at Tata Consultancy Services in internship programs, receiving Best Intern Award for excellent performance.Marketing graduate with outstanding analytical skills. Currently seeking a position as a Marketing Strategist at Facebook to apply my passion knowledge for content writing and marketing strategic planning. Gained social media and offline marketing experience at the student association as Marketing Lead, receiving Student Organization Leadership Awards for outstanding performance. Resume summary writing formula for career changers: 📍 [Previous job title] with [required skills for the position] skills.Currently seeking a position as a [Job title] at [company name], to [career goal].Built [required experience or ability] experience at [work experience], receiving/achieving [achievements or awards]. Resume summary examples for career changers: Patient and detailed-oriented customer service agent with proven communication organization skills. Currently seeking a position as a Product Manager at SoFi, to enhance customer loyalty and user experience. Built problem-solving UX research experience at Delhivery as a Customer Care Specialist, achieving a 30% increase in user retention rate in 3 months.Elementary education teacher with lesson planning classroom management skills. Currently seeking a position as a Classroom Teacher at Merion Elementary School to apply my 10 years of teaching experience to create better educational content. 💡TIPS A professional summary/objective for a resume should be around 30 to 50 words. A summary/objective with more than 100 words is considered too lengthy. 3. Personal details When crafting your resume, it is important to avoid including any irrelevant personal information. Instead, focus on including key details that will help you stand out as a qualified candidate. These details should include:Full nameEmail addressMobile numberCountry and city you’re currently in(Optional) Active links to your portfolio(Optional) Active links to your LinkedIn profile However, there are certain personal details that should never be included in your resume. These details are:AgeMarital statusSexual orientationReligious preferenceSocial Security numberComplete mailing addressIrrelevant social media links 📕 Further reading:Personal Details in Resume｜Samples, Formats, Writing Guide 4. Skills (personal skills/technical skills) When it comes to listing skills on your resume, it's essential to tailor them to the job you're applying for. You should categorize your skills into bullet-point lists based on different skill sets and highlight the ones most relevant to the job requirements.There are generally two types of skills to include in a resume: technical skills (hard skills) and personal skills (soft skills). When selecting which skills to include, refer to the job description and highlight the skills that are particularly critical for the position. For instance: hard skills are especially important in a technical job. However, for jobs with no specific hard skills required, like teachers or baristas, you might consider adding computer skills or language skills to your resume.If you have gaps in your employment history, consider using a skill-based resume format (functional resume), which focuses on your skills and qualifications instead of your work history. Remember that it’s not about the number of skills you list but rather the quality and relevance to the position/industry. Ensure that the skills you include can answer the following questions:How are they relevant to the job requirements?How can they make you qualified for the work?How can they add value to the company? 💡TIPS Another point to keep in mind is that listing skills are a way to showcase your strengths, so there's no need to include weaknesses unless it's explicitly requested. When organizing your skill section, group them into categories based on the qualifications required for the job. Here are some examples of skill categories for software engineers and designers:Created via CakeCreated via Cake 💡 TIPS It's not suggested to use bars, charts, or ratings to display skill proficiency. These methods lack credibility and are not compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Instead, list skills in bullet points and include objective proof such as licenses, certifications, awards, or accomplishments. 5. Educational qualification An education section can be a vital factor in your resume, especially if you just graduated from college. How to list education on a resume? Educational qualifications should be listed in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest level of education. Usually, it is not recommended to include high school education on resumes. However, if it is your highest degree, it should definitely be included. What do I put for education on a resume? School nameSchool locationDegree levelMajor minorGraduation year (Optional) GPA(Optional)Relevant coursework(Optional)Academic honor (award, scholarship, publication) The content and placement of the education section can be adjusted accordingly to a job seeker’s seniority. Freshers with no or little work experience should make the most of the education section to highlight their achievements and knowledge learned. Some of you might wonder whether it is ok to leave education off your resume. If you’re a career changer with more than 5 years of work experience, simply state the school name, major, and graduation year of your highest level of education. Also, for experienced employees, placing the education section after the work experience section is suggested. How to list education in progress on a resume? If you’re currently in college, you can still list the in-progress degree on your resume with relevant coursework you’ve done. Simply note the expected graduation date beside the starting year.Should I include education on my resume if I didn't graduate? If you did not complete the degree (and you're not going to), it is not suggested to include it on your resume, unless you don't have any other education or training.To list an incomplete degree, you can include the name of the school and program and also relevant coursework you finished. Do note that you should not mislead employers in believing that you've graduated. 📖 Further reading:Education on Resume｜Examples, Templates, Writing Guide Created via Cake6. Work experience Work experience is the most important section of a resume. It can fully demonstrate your competency, qualification, and experience in a proper manner. In this section, full-time/part-time/contract/freelance work and internships can all be included as long as they are relevant to the position. How do I write my work experience on a resume?List the past work in a format of reverse chronological order, with 3 - 5 bullet points for each experience to indicate the skills learned and goals accomplished.Use past tense while describing work and goals you’ve achieved, no matter if they’re in your past or current jobs. It is allowable to use present tense for current jobs, but do notice to keep the tense consistent under each item.Make use of action verbs to construct strong statements. Also, adopt active voice instead of passive voice to write sentences, which can create a positive image. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind when writing the work experience sectionCustomize:Tailor-make the resume work experience section for different positions and companies. Read the job description carefully and do research on the corporate culture and industry trends to select the experiences and accomplishments that will help you stand out from other candidates.Consistency:Make sure your work experience appears to align with your career goals or path. “Should I include irrelevant work experience on a resume?” Since there’s a length limit for resumes, it’s only wise to exclude experiences that stray from the current career path. Trial and repeated job duties should also be removed.Keywords: To catch recruiters and Applicant Tracking System’s attention swiftly, insert keywords (e.g., specific skills, qualifications, and requirements) from the job post directly in the sentences.Quantify:Numbers can be eye-catching among a pile of words. Quantifying your achievements and experiences enables employers to understand your value more quickly and precisely.Explanation:Since recruiters can’t be experts in all fields, try further to explain some abbreviations, proper names, and statuses when necessary. Besides, if the resume is meant for a foreign company, do utilize further explanation to highlight your experience. How many years of work history/experience should be on a resume? It depends on the candidates’ seniority levels. Generally speaking, there should be 3 - 5 relevant work experiences (jobs) included on a resume, which can be traced back to 10 - 15 years ago for some senior-level job seekers. 💡TIPS If you are a fresher just out of college, you can include your academic, extra-curricular, volunteer, and internship experiences in college. However, it’s not suggested to add high school experiences on resumes if you’re a college graduate. How to include work projects in resume? Cake is the best online resume builder. Users are able to include maps, links, videos, images, and slides in their resumes to showcase skills and profession. Adding projects and portfolios can make your resume more appealing and professional, especially for designers, software engineers, and marketing professionals. Created via Cake Created via Cake 📖 Further Reading:Work Experience on a Resume｜Samples, Formats, Writing Guide7. Declaration in resume Resume declaration is a statement where job applicants assure their potential employers that everything included on the resume is accurate and without any misleading information. It usually comes with the writer’s signature and the date. Declaration for resumes is common during the job application process in India, and it can also be found in companies or organizations with formal application processes (e.g., Traditional enterprises, government agencies, and academic institutions). 💡TIPS Keep your resume declaration statement short and genuine. It's not necessary to have a lengthy statement. Being honest and authentic is key to securing an interview. How to write a declaration in resume? Here’s the resume declaration sample and format.Resume declaration sample and format I, [You Full Name], solemnly declare that all the details above in my resume is true and accurate. I take full responsibility for the correctness of the information mentioned.[You Formal Signature] [Date] 📖Further reading:Declaration in Resume｜Formats, Examples, Writing Guide 8.References on resume Reference on a resume is not strictly requested in general cases. Adding references in resumes used to be common in the past, but the trend is now fading out. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that references are not important during the job search process anymore. When should I put references on a resume?If the recruiters specifically request applicants to add references to resumes, or it is clearly indicated on the job posting, you should for sure put references on your resume or attach a reference page/sheet in the mail. How to put references on a resume? It is appropriate to list 1 - 3 references on a resume with the following information:The referee’s full nameThe relationship between you and the refereeThe referee’s current job titleThe company at which the referee’s current workingThe referee’s contact information (e.g., Email, phone number)(optional) A short description of the projects you worked together on 💡 TIPS Remember to start the reference list with the one you had the best working relationship with and to previously confirm the referees’ willingness. If you’ve decided to write references in your resume, your next question might be, “Where to add references in resumes?”. Here are some suggestions:Add a reference section at the end of the resumeAdd a reference page/sheet with the resumeAttach another reference page/sheet with the cover letter mail Since the ideal number of references is around 3 (it’s not suggested to list more than 5 referees considering the quality), simply adding a reference section in a resume would be adequate. 📕 Further reading:References on Resume｜Formats, Samples, Templates 9.Hobbies This is one of the most common questions asked by job seekers, “Should I put hobbies on a resume?” Generally speaking, it is not suggested to include hobbies in resumes since usually, they can’t directly prove you’re qualified for the job. However, the following 2 conditions can be the exceptions: Your hobbies and interests are highly related to your profession or the position you’re applying for.For example, writing, blogging, and podcasting can be attractive hobbies on resumes for Brand and Marketing specialists; volunteering and community service can be good hobbies on resumes for people applying for jobs at NGOs; and sometimes, even playing video games can be the best hobby if you’re trying to get into the gaming industry!Your resume is less than a page, and you have nothing else to put on it.If you’re writing your very first resume, and you don’t have any skill, work experience, or major achievement to write in it, the section on hobbies for a resume can be your savior. Due to the lack of experience, the only things you can leverage are your personal traits, characters, and personalities, which can also be associated with your soft skills. Make the most of the hobbies and interests section in your resume to show your future employers that you’re a responsible person, a self-starter, a fast learner, a team player, and even a leader! 📒 Further reading:Hobbies and Interests in Resume｜Examples, Formats, Writing Guide What are good hobbies to put on a resume?Here is a list of hobbies and interests to write in resumes:Hobbies InterestsPosition/Company/IndustryPet CarePet industryChild CareTeacher position / Child Care Services IndustryPhotographyPhotographer positionCooking, BakingRestaurants and Food Services industryArt, Sketching, PaintingDesigner positionHistory, Culture, TravelingTour guide position / Tourism IndustryReading, Writing, BloggingWriter position / Publishing industryNetworking, Public speakingSales position / Business development positionLanguages learning, TravelingTourism IndustryWriting, Blogging, PodcastingMarketing positionComputer games, Video gamesGaming industrySports, Exercising and healthcarePersonal trainer position / Fitness industryVideo production, Filming, MoviesVideo editor position / Film and Television IndustryVolunteer work, Community involvementSocial enterprise / NGOsListening to music, Making music, Playing an instrumentMusic industryThe Best Resume BuilderCake is the best free resume builder tool that can help you build an attractive and professional resume in just 10 minutes. With Cake, you can easily create a custom resume that reflects your skills, experience, and achievements. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in your career, Cake provides a range of customizable templates and formatting options to ensure that your resume stands out from the crowd. By using the best free online resume builder, you can be confident that you're presenting your best self to potential employers and increasing your chances of landing your dream job effortlessly.Start your Cake journey today!

Created by CakeIn this article,you’ll learn about: What are interpersonal skills? Where to list interpersonal skills on a resume/CV [Resume examples] 50+ Examples of Interpersonal Skills in a resume/CV Tips on how to include interpersonal skills in a resume/CV How to improve interpersonal skills As a part of soft skills, interpersonal skills are those required for individuals to communicate effectively, interact, and work in an organization. They are related to the skills one uses to interact with others. During recruitment, hiring managers do not only look for technical skills but also interpersonal skills on a resume to choose one applicant over another. Including the right interpersonal skills in your resume is important to help you stand out among other applicants. This is because most job seekers list similar hard skills relevant to the position; interpersonal skills are what make an applicant unique and help you win the competition. Let’s learn how to highlight the best interpersonal skills and 50+ resume examples of interpersonal skills for your resume, no matter what field you work in. What are interpersonal skills? Interpersonal skills refer to the ability to communicate, interact, and collaborate effectively with others. They are often considered a specific type of social skill essential for your career and personal life. In organizational contexts, such as the workplace, interpersonal skills are crucial to your professional success as they directly impact your work efficiency and how your colleagues and managers view you. While technical skills can be learned in many ways, soft skills, especially interpersonal skills, are difficult to teach and measure. Not all of us are naturally exceptional communicators or speakers, making it all the more important to develop and list these skills on your CV or resume. Employers often seek out professionals who possess these strengths and base their hiring decisions on a candidate's interpersonal skills. Developing interpersonal skills is essential for both personal and professional growth, and highlighting them on your resume can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Let’s look at these resume examples to know how to list your interpersonal skills on your resume!Where to list interpersonal skills on a resume/CVWhen writing a resume for a job application, it is also essential to consider the right way and place to include interpersonal skills on the resume. When done correctly, these decisions can help boost your application strength and increase your chances of getting hired. Generally, you can list interpersonal skills on a resume’s work experience, summary/objective, or skills section. Keep reading to understand better where you can include interpersonal skills on a resume/CV. 1. In the work experience description The work experience section is the best place to describe interpersonal skills on resumes. You can best demonstrate your interpersonal skills through specific stories, quantifiable results, and examples, such as responsibilities, accomplishments, and awards. This way, you can also link those skills required or relevant to the job you’re applying for. Examples of interpersonal skills listed in the work experience section:Social Media SpecialistIVY Modern | London, UK01/2018 - 12/2020Significantly boosted the client retention rate by 15% by delivering bi-weekly client presentations using PowerPoint and Google Slides.Responded to 50+ messages on Facebook Page and 35+ email queries daily, ensuring the response time within 15 minutes.Worked closely with the Marketing Team to develop the Sales Marketing campaigns upon the new product launch. The descriptions above showed presentation, telephone communication, and collaboration skills, all great examples of interpersonal skills on a resume. 2. In the resume summary/objective The summary or objective sections are also great for presenting interpersonal skills on a CV. Think of it as a way to grab the employer's attention and show him you can be a good fit for the company. ⚠️ Note: Don't stuff too many interpersonal skills in the first place! Pick two of your most outstanding qualities to impress the hiring manager. You may need to show them more later in the skills section. Examples of interpersonal skills in the resume summary:CPR-certified Tour Guide with plenty of experience doing cruises and sightseeing tours in Paris, a great storyteller with exceptional communication skills, including ice-breaking, building rapport with others, and communicating across cultural boundaries, able to deliver engaging content to capture and keep customer attention. 3. In the resume skills section As a key component of a resume, the skills section is where you can list all your personality traits. However, make sure to select only the outstanding interpersonal skills to put on your resume. It's best to highlight five hard and five soft skills in this section.Here's an example list of interpersonal skills for a resume skills section: Written and verbal communication skillsDiplomacy (handling affairs without hostility)Inspiring and motivating other team membersWorking well in group settingsPublic speakingActive listeningRelationship buildingTeam-playerResponsiveEmotional intelligence [Resume examples] 50+ examples of interpersonal skills in a resume/cvStill unsure of what interpersonal skills to include in your resume or CV? Check out the list of interpersonal skills below. Ten interpersonal skills to consider including in your resume/CV: CommunicationTeamworkEmpathyLeadershipDecision MakingProblem-SolvingConflict ManagementNegotiationListeningPublic Speaking Including interpersonal skills in your resume or CV is essential for achieving more job opportunities and being competitive in the job market. Here are some examples of interpersonal skills to help you highlight them on your resume: 1. CommunicationThis refers to an individual’s ability to provide and receive information effectively. Examples of communication skills include clear and concise messaging, summarizing information, choosing the right communication medium, delivering clear visuals during presentations, and providing and accepting feedback. 2. TeamworkTeamwork skills can go under different names such as collaboration, team player, or working well in group settings. This skill set is required for every industry, ranging from finance to technology to education. Even when you're working independently, your workflows can't run smoothly without other people's cooperation. Workplaces highly value this particular skill, so it is essential to highlight this interpersonal skill in your resume. 5 important teamwork skills for a successful career: Thrive in a team environmentEnjoy working closely with othersTeam-oriented personalityMotivate each otherOrganize and plan 3. Empathy“ We are not thinking machines. We are feeling machines who think. ”Richard Restak, a Professor at George Washington University“Empathy,” defined as feeling with someone, is an emotional intelligence skill that falls in the social awareness skill set. Expressing empathy means you show others that you believe them and understand their thoughts or feelings. 5 empathy skills you should develop at workplace:5 empathy skills you should develop: Consider and respect different points of viewUnderstand othersAct on others’ needs and concernsWillingness to help colleaguesOffer constructive feedback 4. LeadershipWhen organizing your team members to reach a shared goal, you must possess leadership skills to use them to organize others to reach shared goals. These skills incorporate different personality traits and communication abilities and are crucial qualifications, whether in a management position or seeking team-led jobs. 5 examples of interpersonal skills that make a strong leader:Delegate tasks clearlyManage meetings efficientlyConfidence in themselves and the teamAble to foster a positive work environmentLead by examples 5. Decision-MakingDecision-making skills are the ability to think objectively and relate concepts to the organization’s goals. Upon making a decision, you also demonstrate other skills such as leadership, analysis, information gathering, and objectivity. Therefore, employers want to hire candidates with whom they can make intelligent decisions for their business to thrive. Make sure to highlight this interpersonal skill in your resume if you possess it. 5 decision-making skills you should develop:Gather informationEvaluate options accuratelyPriority establishmentAble to identify critical factors which will affect the outcomeAble to navigate risk and uncertainty 6. Problem-SolvingProblem-solving skills are the traits that help you identify and figure out problems effectively and efficiently. Since businesses face daily challenges, employers would expect you to be a good problem solver. If you showcase this interpersonal skill on your resume, you will surely stand out among other applicants as an active and initiative individual. 5 problem-solving skills highly valued by employers:Learn from previous experiencesAble to determine the cause of the problemAttention to detailSeek opportunities to solve problemsClearly express solutions to complex problems 7. Conflict ManagementConflict can be considered a common workplace issue. Conflict management skills contribute to a positive work environment, allowing you to manage the effects of the conflict on yourself, what you're doing, and who you're working with.Conflict management skills to show on your resumeActive listenAble to identify the conflictStay calm and professionalEmotion controlPatience 8. NegotiationNegotiation skills are the qualities that allow you to reach a compromise in case there exist different sides to an issue. These skills range from communication and persuasion to stratification and cooperation. Negotiation skills examples to include in your resumeAble to express yourself in an engaging wayLead by examples and numbersResearch and analytical skillsActive listenEmotional intelligence 9. Listening skillsPeople see you as a good listener when you can understand and support the speaker in different manners. Listing listening skills on your resume lets the employer know that you know the importance of listening techniques and how they can benefit the company. Check out the 5 essential listening skills to have:Provide feedbackUse nonverbal cues which show understandingResponsivenessAttentivenessRequesting clarification 10. Public SpeakingPublic speaking skills refer to addressing a matter with clarity and confidence. You may not commonly see public speaking skill requirements in many job postings, but candidates with these qualifications may find themselves on a fast track to leadership positions. Examples of public speaking skills include:Clear articulationEngaging presentation styleAssessing the audience’s needsStorytelling skillsEye contact and body language Cake provides the best resume templates examples for talents to demonstrate your qualifications. Let us help you land the dream with a strong resume (free download)!Create ResumeTips on how to include interpersonal skills in a resume/CV💡 Use descriptive resume keywords for describing interpersonal skills. What interpersonal skills you put on your CV may be the same as what’s written on other candidates. Thus, you may want to adopt descriptive resume keywords to stand out from the crowd, for example: InsightfulReliableDynamicThoughtfulDevotedAttentiveDedicatedDeterminedSincereDisciplined 💡 Include the skills mentioned in the job description. You can find many words or phrases that describe specific job requirements, including expertise, technical skills, and other relevant qualifications. Adopting the right interpersonal skills on your resume allows employers to quickly identify you as a potential candidate, whether they’re skimming with their eyes or using Applicant Tracking Software. 💡 Provide at least 3 characteristics. Say you’re supposed to list five hard and five soft skills on your CV; three should go to interpersonal skills. It also depends on how you present them, but employers generally expect to see at least three interpersonal skills on resumes. How to improve interpersonal skills📝 Cultivate a positive attitude. Staying cheerful can help boost your interpersonal skills by setting a naturally pleasant tone for your interactions. A positive outlook can also be an excellent way to support a growth mindset when you are willing to learn and develop interpersonal skills. 📝 Learn from other people. Try to observe your managers and coworkers who possess outstanding interpersonal skills. Then, figure out and learn from what makes those interactions so successful. That can be their tone, body language, or word choice in a particular situation. 📝 Ask for feedback or suggestions. Don’t be shy to ask for feedback on your interpersonal skills, whether working with a mentor or in a group setting. Asking specific questions about scenarios and interactions can help you realize and overcome your weaknesses.SummaryInterpersonal skills are an essential part of any job, and highlighting them on a resume can make a significant difference in getting hired. These skills refer to the ability to communicate effectively with others, build relationships, collaborate, and work well in a team. Some common examples of interpersonal skills include active listening, empathy, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and leadership. To showcase your interpersonal skills on your resume, consider using action-oriented language and specific examples to demonstrate your abilities. For instance, you might describe a time when you successfully mediated a disagreement between coworkers or how you led a team to accomplish a challenging project. In addition to including interpersonal skills in your resume, it's also important to develop these skills further through ongoing training and practice. Doing so can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate that you have the skills necessary to excel in any workplace.Want to write outstanding resume that turns head? Follow Cake — the best resume builder platform for more advice! --- Originally written by May Luong ---

Auditor Resume: Format, Examples, and TipsAuditors play an important role in reviewing and ensuring that a company, institution, or organization's financial reports and financial systems are sound and compliant. With great responsibility, prospective auditors must possess diverse skill sets, including analytical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, and a broader knowledge base. Before embarking on writing your auditor resume, it is important to understand that this profession has several specialized types. These include internal auditors, external auditors, and forensic auditors. Each type of auditor has distinct responsibilities and focuses within the field. If you're looking to apply for other finance positions, check out our general finance resume writing guide. Learning important information about the auditor job will help you build an appropriate resume, including knowing what skills to highlight. As always, Cake provides examples of auditor resumes along with guidelines and writing tips.Table of ContentsHow to Write a Strong Auditor Resume3 Auditor Resume Examples for Different Experience LevelsEssential Writing Tips for a Top-Notch Auditor ResumeComplete Your Application with this Cover Letter TemplateCommon FAQsKey Takeaways How to Write a Strong Auditor ResumeAccording to Forbes, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 4% increase in the careers of auditors and accountants from 2022 to 2032. This indicates that pursuing a career as an auditor is a viable choice, especially during challenging times when the global economy is facing uncertainty. To kickstart your journey toward becoming a professional auditor, it is essential to write a well-crafted resume. Below, Cake provides guidelines and tips for writing an effective auditor resume. Include Your Personal Information Let's start by learning what information to include in this section. Personal information, which is often in your resume header, includes basic data that will help recruiters get to know you better. But remember, not all personal information needs to be written down!DOsYour full nameEmail addressPhone numberYour cityLinkedIn accountDON'TsUnless specifically requested in the registration requirements, it is better to provide information such as gender, age, and marital status to avoid discrimination. This information is also not relevant to the editor position, as qualifications are the main requirement the company is looking for. For some countries, asking these details is against the law.Do not include insurance or identification numbers. This critical information can be used by irresponsible parties to commit fraud.An auditor's work is confidential because it concerns the financial condition of a company, organization, or institution being audited. There is a strict rule not to create any content related to auditing. In order for your auditor resume to appear professional, it is better not to include your social media accounts. Write Your Auditor Resume Summary The next step in creating a compelling resume is to write a summary as efficiently as possible. A summary is a concise statement of your work experience, accomplishments, and skills. You can call it an opportunity to promote yourself so that you can be among the selected candidates. However, writing an auditor resume summary for entry-level, mid-level, and senior-level positions is different. What makes it different? Find out below!A detail-oriented accounting graduate from the University of Indonesia with a 3.8 GPA, seeking an entry-level internal position at Sven Corp. In addition to strong communication skills, I possess a comprehensive understanding of auditing standards and relevant regulations, including the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). Dedicated and trustworthy internal auditor with 3 years of experience in detecting fraud and other financial irregularities. Successfully reduced financial leakages by up to 100% and saved over $250,000. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and highly interested in the senior internal auditor position at Swana. Senior auditor with over 10 years of financial audits experience, working with 40 multinational clients. Ensured regular compliance by maintaining a 99% accuracy rate for each financial statement. Additionally, provided weekly training to 55 junior auditors, resulting in a 50% increase in audit quality. Consider Adding a Career Objective Career objectives, typically used by entry-level job seekers or recent graduates, are concise statements outlining their future plans. They are typically written in efficient sentences and do not include accomplishments and work experience. Efficient and detailed recent graduate in Accounting from Gadjah Mada University who brings strong knowledge in regulations, controls, and accounting and finance processes. Seeking an opportunity to contribute as a junior internal auditor at Swana.A motivated accounting student at Gadjah Mada University with a strong interest in financial auditing. Proficient in using audit tools such as ACL and Caseware. Seeking an opportunity to join an internship and contribute as an internal auditor at Swana.💡 Pro tips: You can choose between including a career objective or a resume summary. Tailor Your Work Experience Section Work experience is the most important part of an auditor's resume. Hiring managers look at your work history to determine if you are a good candidate. Here are some tips on how to write work experience correctly: 1) Summarize each sentence using action verbs and bullet points Not all recruiters have enough time to read candidates' resumes in detail. Many end up skimming. That's why it's important to use action verbs and bullet points that summarize and highlight your accomplishments and contributions at your previous company. Here are some examples of action verbs you can include:ReportedAuditedReviewedMonitoredAdministeredDevelopedPerformedIncreasedDecrerasedSecured 2) Include measurable accomplishments in your resume to showcase your achievements When you have prior work experience as an auditor, hiring managers are not only interested in your job descriptions. They primarily focus on measurable results and achievements when evaluating candidates. Include key details like previous position, company name, location, and tenure in this section as well.Senior Financial AuditorPannsea, MalaysiaAugust 2015 - August 2023Implemented reformed audit process strategies, resulting in an average 45% reduction in audit time while improving accuracy by 55%.Utilized integrated advanced financial analysis techniques that successfully increased the efficiency of the finance department, resulting in a 45% increase in the speed of report generation.Delivered training to 25 financial auditors per week, resulting in a 78% increase in audit quality. Junior Internal AuditorPaseo, IndonesiaSept 2022 - PresentInitiated in-depth research to identify gaps in financial processes and systems, leading to the development of audit procedures that resulted in up to a 55% increase in financial efficiency.Led the investigation of two fraud cases, successfully recovering $3 million stolen by 15 employees.Developed and implemented programs to control and monitor the company’s financial risks. Add Both Soft and Hard Skills that an Auditor Should Have Entry-level and mid-level auditors should include a list of technical and non-technical skills on their resumes. These skills will help you perform your audit responsibilities.Hard Skills:Financial analysisAnalysing dataDeep knowledge of accounting and financeDeep knowledge of cyber securityAuditing skillsPresentationRisk managementInternal control and SOX complianceBusiness acumenSoft Skills:AdaptiveCommunicativeAttention to detailHardworkingProblem-solvingAnalytical thinkingCritical thinkingEmotional IntelligenceSkepticismKeen Add Education If You Have Less than 10 Years of Working Experience Since the position of an auditor requires a certain level of education, it is important to include your educational history unless you have over 10 years of experience OR have an impressive career trajectory. Can you replace your education with coursework from a reputable institution? While this may be possible, not all companies may be open to considering this type of background. Here are some points to consider when including your education on your auditor resume: Ensure your GPA is above 3; if it is below 3, you may want to omit it.Present your educational history in chronological order, starting with the most recent. For efficiency, include only one or two relevant education entries.At the professional level, you can also include your educational history if you hold a master’s degree or Ph.D. Let's look at some examples below! Bachelor of Science in AccountingYogyakarta State University, IndonesiaAug 2017 - Aug 2022GPA: 3.9/4.0 Bachelor of Science in Marketing ManagementGadjah Mada University, IndonesiaExpected to graduate in June 2024Relevant Coursework:Practical Auditing 101 for Beginners - Udemy, 2022Basic Level Audit - Mekari, 2022 Other Information to Include in Your Auditor Resume Languages: In the field of auditing, English is one of the primary communication tools, particularly when conducting audits for multinational companies. Aiming for a TOEFL score of at least 550 is advisable. Additionally, possessing language skills in other languages like French, Chinese, or Japanese can provide added value when presenting yourself to a hiring manager.Certification: Certification is an acknowledgment that your skills and abilities are professionally recognized. To enhance your credibility as an auditor, consider obtaining one or more of these 11 certificates that align with your focus.ISACA Certified Information Systems AuditorCOSO Internal Control CertificatePublic Sector CertificateValuation for Financial Reporting (VFR) CertificateAdvanced-Data Management CertificateAudit Committee CertificatePerformance Management and Strategy CertificateCertification in Risk Management AssuranceCertified Internal Auditor (CIA)Internal Auditor PractitionerChartered Professional Accountant (CPA) CertificationCertified Practicing Accountant (CPA) 3 Auditor Resume Examples for Different Experience LevelsAuditor Resume Example for Entry-level Specialist Auditor Resume Example for Mid-level Specialist Auditor Resume Examples for Senior-level Want to create a similar auditor resume? Sign up and get started with our free resume builder!Essential Writing Tips for a Top-Notch Auditor Resume 1) Research the company you are applying to The first tip is to thoroughly research the company or firm to which you are applying. This research will help you gather important information, such as what type of auditors are needed, whether the company's vision and mission align with what you believe in, what salary range can be offered, whether the work environment supports self-development, whether there is a career path for an entry-level employee and more. You can explore the company's reputation through its official website, LinkedIn account, Twitter conversations, and even Instagram hashtags. Some specialized platforms allow employees or former employees to speak anonymously about the company they worked for. Platforms like these can be a valuable tool for evaluating the value of the company you are applying to. 2) Understand the difference between a resume and a CV In some countries, the terms resume and CV are often used interchangeably, although there are significant differences between the two, especially in page length and writing focus. Resumes are usually no longer than 3 pages and focus on work experience relevant to the position you are applying for. For example, an auditor's resume contains a collection of information about your skills and experience related to auditing work. Any information beyond that is considered irrelevant by the ATS engine or the hiring manager. A resume, on the other hand, summarizes all of your work experience, volunteer work, organizations, courses, and even education levels, regardless of whether each experience is relevant. Resumes are perfect for academic-related positions, such as applying for a scholarship, teaching, or even speaking at a conference. 3) Decide what type of auditor resume format to use a) Chronological Resume Hiring managers will often encounter chronological resumes because candidates often use this format. This type of resume is suitable for those whose careers are already on the same track or who want to move up in the same field. The points that should be highlighted in a chronological auditor resume are your work achievements. These achievements are written in quantification. The chronological format requires your resume to be written in order from most recent to oldest. This applies to the sections on work experience, education history, courses, certificates, and achievements. b) Functional Resume The second type is the functional resume, which is suitable for fresh graduates and individuals without any work experience. In this type of resume, you can highlight your technical and non-technical skills that match the requirements of the employer. c) Combination Resume Lastly, the combination resume is known as a blend of chronological and functional. This format is commonly used by job hoppers or freelancers with diverse work backgrounds. In a combination resume, you can highlight your technical and non-technical skills, followed by work experience that supports those skills. Once you have decided on the format you want to use, make sure you use the standard format for resume writing: Each resume should be no longer than 3 pages, excluding the cover letter.Use three fonts only: 14 for headings and 12 or 13 for the rest of the text.For neatness, use a line spacing setting of 1.25 to 1.5Readability is an important factor for hiring managers, so use formal fonts such as Times New Roman, Roboto, Open Sans, or Arial.Don't forget to convert your resume file from Word to PDF file. 4) Tailor your resume with keywords. An increasing number of companies are adopting AI or ATS machines to filter candidate applications in the initial stages. If the engine detects that the content of a resume does not align with the keywords specified by the company, the application is automatically labeled as ‘unsuitable’. But don’t worry! To address this issue, you can strategically incorporate the relevant keywords in your resume. These keywords can be identified from the job description and requirements provided in the job posting. Including keywords in the summary and work experience section will enhance their effectiveness. As a result, when applying to multiple companies, your resume must be tailored to each company’s specific criteria. Therefore, a single resume cannot be used for all auditor positions. While creating an auditor’s resume can be a demanding task, your dedication and enthusiasm will shine through and increase your chances of receiving interview invitations. 5) Proofread your auditor resume Typos in an auditor resume can reduce your credibility and professionalism in front of the hiring manager. An auditor needs to be focused and thorough, but a resume with a lot of typos, incorrect formatting, and reversed layout can make you look like you lack expertise in the field. For this reason, it is important to proofread your resume several times before submitting it.Complete Your Application with this Cover Letter Template Many people mistakenly believe that writing a cover letter is a waste of time since not all recruiters will read it. However, recent surveys indicate otherwise. In fact, 65% of hiring managers agree that a well-written cover letter significantly influences their decision to interview a candidate. Compared to a resume, a cover letter offers a more personal touch. It allows you to share your career story, highlight your skills, express your motivation for the position, showcase your accomplishments, and provide explanations that may not be included in your resume, such as career gaps or changes. To craft an impactful auditor cover letter that captures the attention of hiring managers, consider the following tips: Ensure that your contact information, including your full name, current city of residence, email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile, is included.Mention the date the cover letter was written in the format mm/dd/yyyy.Use a professional salutation, such as ‘Dear Hiring Manager’, or address the letter to a specific person using their name such as ‘Dear Ms. Mojo’..The opening paragraph should introduce yourself, briefly mention your previous career experience, and state the position you want to apply for.In the subsequent paragraphs, highlight your skills that align with the company’s needs and provide measurable accomplishments.Conclude the cover letter by reaffirming your suitability for the auditor position and expressing your anticipation of hearing back regarding your application.Just like a resume, customize the cover letter to match the specific criteria outlined by the company.Remember to incorporate relevant keywords to ensure your cover letter is effectively read by any filtering systems. Let's look at the cover letter below Kevin HuangJakarta, Indonesia(+62)[email protected]/in/kevinhuangMarch 09, 2024,Dear Ms. Shanum,I am writing to express my interest in the Internal Auditor position at Swana as advertised on CakeResume. As a highly skilled auditor with 2 years of experience, I have expertise in performing and managing a full audit cycle, including risk management and control over operational effectiveness, financial reliability, and compliance with all applicable policies and regulations.With diligence and passion, I successfully conducted an audit cycle for my previous company during 2021 - 2023 and prevented fatal errors in financial statements. As a result, the company's financial productivity and efficiency increased by up to 50%. This led me to win the Best Employee award in 2022 and 2023.In mid-2023, the company entrusted me with the new responsibility of conducting weekly training sessions for the training staff on auditing and internal controls. This training commitment continued until December 2023.After seeing a vacancy at Swana for an Internal Auditor, I did thorough research on your company. I am very interested and excited about Swana's vision and mission. Not only that, I also believe that Swana will provide a working environment that will allow me to grow.Through this letter, I would like to thank you if my application can be considered further. I am waiting for good news from you. If you have any questions regarding my capacity, work experience, or qualifications, please do not hesitate to contact me.Sincerely,Kevin Huang Common FAQs1) Do I need a college degree to become an auditor? Working as an auditor requires specialized knowledge of finance and economics. For this reason, you must have at least an undergraduate degree in accounting, finance, economics, or a business-related field. This is a very long and stable career, so it is no wonder that many auditors compete to continue their education with a Master's or Ph.D. You can also sharpen your auditing skills by taking various certified courses. 2) What are the distinct differences for each type of auditor? There are four common types of auditors, each with distinct roles despite their shared focus on financial statements. a) Internal Auditor Remember that not all companies have internal auditors for various reasons. The primary role of this type of auditor is to evaluate, control, manage, and participate in all of a company's accounting processes.Internal auditors are also responsible for ensuring business administration efficiency, identifying financial problems (risk assessment), and acting quickly in the event of fraud or irregularities. All of this is done independently and objectively. So, the internal auditor ensures that the financial statements are free of problems before they are audited by the external auditor. b) External Auditor External auditors typically work for independent public accounting firms that are not affiliated with the company, institution, or organization being audited. They serve as impartial third parties with no personal interest in the outcome. Following the submission of financial statements, the external auditor conducts a comprehensive examination, assessing the adequacy of supporting transaction evidence, verifying cash flow, ensuring tax compliance with relevant laws and regulations, and offering evaluations and comments documented in the audit report. The audit proves valuable not only to the company/institution/organization owners but also to investors, lenders, governments, and other stakeholders. c) Forensic Auditor The third type is known as forensic auditors, whose role is to examine and evaluate the financial records of companies, institutions, organizations, or individuals. The findings they uncover serve as crucial evidence in court or during legal proceedings. A forensic auditor must possess a deep understanding not only of accounting principles but also of the legal procedures involved in the financial audits process. They frequently encounter cases involving fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. 3) What is the average auditor's salary? The salary range for an auditor varies based on several factors, including education level, state minimum wage, work experience, size of the company or law firm employing the auditor, and certification. Salary.com data for February 2024 shows that the average salary for an auditor in the United States is $97,654. The salary range starts at $89,170 and goes up to $107,072. 4) Can an auditor's work be done remotely? Before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, working remotely was relatively uncommon, particularly in the finance sector. However, advancements in technology have made it possible for all types of work, including auditing, to be conducted remotely. Nevertheless, performing audit work off-site requires certain adjustments and approaches. KPMG, a UK-based accounting firm, has demonstrated that remote work can be successful. The key to achieving this success lies in maintaining focus and efficiency. Auditors who work remotely should establish a detailed work schedule to ensure that no tasks are overlooked. 5) What are the main challenges an auditor typically faces? Auditing is a complex and high-risk profession, primarily due to the numerous accounting standards that must be adhered to for an audit report to be considered valid and regulatory compliance. Here are some of the significant problems and challenges auditors commonly encounter: Resistance from organizations, institutions, companies, or individuals to providing accurate financial statements poses a major hurdle for auditors. Many refuse to cooperate and instead provide misleading information, making decision-making challenging.Auditors must contend with the emergence of new audit software and systems. Many clients adopt specific programs or systems to record their financial activities, which places a greater burden on auditors to master these software tools.The demanding nature of the auditing profession necessitates a continuous supply of skilled auditors for the future. However, several firms acknowledge the difficulty of finding qualified talent.Key Takeaways Being an auditor can be stressful at times, which is probably why not many young people pursue the profession. However, a career as an auditor has good prospects for the next few years, a clear career path, and a reasonable salary.Before writing your auditor resume, you should carefully read the requirements of the job posting. For example, what skills need to be highlighted, whether the firm or company accepts entry-level candidates, whether there is any special software that needs to be mastered, and so on. Hopefully, this article and the auditor resume templates can help you get to the next level. Remember to always make sure your resume is free of typos or misinformation before submitting it. Best of luck!With the intention of helping job seekers fully display their value, Cake creates an accessible free resume/CV/biodata builder for users to build highly customized resumes. Having a compelling resume is just like a piece of cake! Sign up for Cake today!— Originally written by Erika Rizqi —