Created by CakeWhether you are on it or not, you must have heard of LinkedIn. Nearly 800 million professionals worldwide connect with others on LinkedIn to grow professionally and personally. It is the largest networking site for people to share work-related information and their insight. And LinkedIn just keeps growing. A strong, active presence on LinkedIn will do your career good. Among many other things, you can meet important people in the industry, seek job opportunities, apply for jobs easily, and research different companies on LinkedIn.In this article, we’ve put together a detailed guide on what a LinkedIn profile is, what LinkedIn is used for, and how it works. Table of Contents:What is LinkedIn?LinkedIn’s Main FeaturesHow to Make the Best Use of LinkedIn?Why is It a Good Idea to be on LinkedIn?6 Steps to Get Started on LinkedInWhat is LinkedIn?Since its launch in 2003, LinkedIn has been helping millions of people with job search, career development, and networking. LinkedIn allows people to display their resumes and corporations to better introduce their products, services, values, and culture to the world. How does LinkedIn work? It’s a social networking site. Similar to other social networks, LinkedIn creates a space for professionals to share their insights and reflections, enabling you to always find posts you can relate to.LinkedIn’s Main FeaturesThe LinkedIn website is intuitive and easy to navigate. Its main features include:HomeMy NetworkJobsMessagingNotificationsMy Profile Home Home is the default page that you are directed to when logging in. It’s also where you see newsfeed from your connections as well as people and companies that you follow. My Network Your connections will be listed under My Network along with people and pages you follow, groups you're in, events you’ve signed up for, and newsletters. Here is where you connect with others. Jobs Other than job posting sites, many employers also advertise their jobs on LinkedIn. You can easily search for and apply to them on LinkedIn. LinkedIn also recommends jobs based on the information you provide, such as your preferred job types and location. Messaging One of LinkedIn’s best features is messaging. You can send a quick text to others who you might not have the chance to talk to in real life. What’s more is that LinkedIn messaging allows you to include various attachments in your text. On the other hand, you can also receive messages from potential employers who find your profile attractive. Notifications This feature keeps you in the loop of what’s happening. You can see under notifications the job alert you set and interaction with others.My Profile My profile is, as its name suggests, an introduction to you as a professional. It functions as an online resume/CV. You might not be actively looking for a job but HR who views your LinkedIn profile can send you a quick text to see if you’re interested in some positions. With a free basic account, you can enjoy these features on LinkedIn. You can upgrade your account to Premium and try LinkedIn services that cater more to you as a job seeker: learn how well your resume performs, know how you compare to competitors, and develop new skills with LinkedIn Learning Courses. For companies and individual business owners, LinkedIn also offers business services and solutions to help acquire talents more effectively.How to Make the Best Use of LinkedIn? With those features, you can use LinkedIn for many different purposes, including career progression. In short, LinkedIn’s products and services allow you to:Find job opportunitiesHire suitable candidatesAcquire new knowledge and skillsShare insights Find job opportunities Despite being a social networking site for professionals, LinkedIn also acts as a portal to countless job opportunities. To effectively search for jobs that suit you, we suggest you enter a couple of keywords that best describe the jobs or positions you are looking for in the search bar. Once you have found the ones that match your profile and preference, the next thing to do is simply hit the apply button! 💡Pro tip: To better your chances of getting an interview invitation, consider revising your LinkedIn profile to match the position you are applying for. Hire suitable candidates On the other hand, if you are an employer who is looking for talents to recruit into your company. Tapping into LinkedIn’s talent search won’t disappoint you! After seeing ideal candidates on the site, you can easily reach out to them via LinkedIn message. A simple message can do wonders to your hiring process. Learn new knowledge and skills As a space that helps people grow, LinkedIn also offers online courses and resources. There are more than 16,000 courses available on LinkedIn, so if you are the kind of person who is always on the lookout for new skills, why not give them a try? Who knows, what you are learning today may prove fruitful in the near future? The only catch is that they are part of the LinkedIn Premium account deal. However, you can apply for a one-month trial for free! Share insights Last but not least, LinkedIn is a platform where you can voice your opinions as well as hear and learn from other professionals. The simplest way to try this out is by simply going to the newsfeed page and creating posts. In no time, you are guaranteed to receive comments and feedback from professionals of varying backgrounds that most definitely are going to be beneficial to your career path. It’s a great way to expand your network beyond your company, industry or even your country. Creating a strong LinkedIn presence through posting regularly can also help you build up your personal brand and establish your credibility.However, don’t forget that LinkedIn is a site for professionals. When you are deciding what to post on LinkedIn, make sure the content you post is not going to harm your reputation as a professional. It doesn’t always have to be serious, but words you wouldn’t say in a professional setting, for instance, inappropriate jokes, should not be on your LinkedIn profile. You can share a lesson you learnt from interacting with others at work or inspirational conversations you’ve had on your LinkedIn account. Why is It a Good Idea to be on LinkedIn?In a nutshell, if you wish to further develop your career, a good LinkedIn profile is beyond necessary. LinkedIn can give you exposure to unexpected work opportunities and provide a platform for you to create and develop your personal brand even if you are not actively looking for new jobs. You have all the more reasons to be on LinkedIn if you are thinking about switching jobs or careers. Many companies post their jobs on LinkedIn, and very often, you can find on LinkedIn jobs that are not on traditional job posting sites. LinkedIn also allows you to easily apply for the job and provides metrics to help you to showcase your skills clearly and in a professional manner.6 Steps to Get Started on LinkedInHaving gone through the various purposes of LinkedIn and the benefits of using LinkedIn, we are moving on to how to get started with your LinkedIn profile. Step 1: Getting signed up First thing first, you need to create a LinkedIn account — if you haven’t already. Click on the sign-up button and enter your email address and password. After you have signed up, check your email inbox for the confirmation email, which you should usually receive within a couple of minutes. However, if you don’t get it, check: if you have entered the correct email addressthe spam folder in your email If you are certain the email address is correct and you don’t have the confirmation email in the spam folder, try hitting the ‘send again’ button. If all else fails and you still don’t receive the confirmation email, write to LinkedIn customer service and ask for help. Step 2: Filling in basic information Setting up a LinkedIn profile is simple. Yet, to make it stand out as an attractive one, you need to put some thought into it. Here is how! After the creation of your LinkedIn account, the second step is to fill out your basic information. This includes your: NameJob titleProfile summary Although your LinkedIn profile is essentially an online resume/CV, there are some distinctions between them. When you write a resume or CV, you typically tailor it to the specific position that you are applying to. But this information about you on your LinkedIn profile is not specifically designed for any job. So a different strategy is needed when you write basic information on your LinkedIn profile when you are not actively looking for a job. If that is the case, you can browse the job postings on LinkedIn and find out what your ideal job is. Then write the profile summary for your ideal job, including all the required and relevant skills and experience.Step 3: Uploading your profile photo Upload a photo of yourself to your LinkedIn profile to make your profile more personal and allow the recruiter to envision you more easily. In certain countries, a photo of the candidate on the resume/CV is not preferred as it may institute bias or discrimination based on looks and appearances. However, this is where LinkedIn differs. Since it is both a social networking and job hunting platform, your profile picture allows people to interact with you better and feel more connected. Still, the question remains, what picture should you use as your LinkedIn profile picture? It goes without saying that you want to present yourself in a professional manner. Simply put, you can follow the tips below to make sure your LinkedIn profile picture is as perfect as it gets: Choose a photo that looks like youAvoid distracting backgroundsMake sure your face is clear and takes up 60% of the framePay attention to your facial expressionsDress professionallyStep 4: Adding your work experience The work experience section on LinkedIn, similar to the basic information section mentioned above, is not written for any specific job. You can, therefore, employ the same strategy when creating your LinkedIn profile instead of what you normally do when writing a resume: listing out the most impressive experiences and achievements that are relevant to your dream job.Step 5: Adding your education background The education on LinkedIn is quite self-explanatory. Write down: Names of the schools you have studied atType of your degree(s) and its majorNumber of years you attended each educational institution💡Pro tip: You may include core courses and modules taken as well as awards and honors received in your school years.Step 6: Showcasing your skills Similar to the education and work experience sections, skills are pretty straightforward. You may start by writing down all the skills that could help you stand out from others like you would do when you write a resume. However, skills are one of the most difficult sections to write, as job seekers often don’t know how to properly describe their skill levels. On LinkedIn, you can specify your skill levels and take the tests provided by LinkedIn to let the recruiter have a better idea of how proficient you are in those skills. Last but not least, to make your profile even more credible and outstanding, there is ‘endorsement’. In other words, people who have worked with you, for instance, your former managers or coworkers, can endorse you by writing a few lines about your skills. Endorsement on LinkedIn acts as a short reference and helps other recruiters who view your profile assess your skills and abilities better.With Cake, a resume builder tool, we provide you with hundreds of free resume templates and resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!Create Resume--- Originally written by Yin Hsuan---

In this article, you will read about:Why You Need a Good Motivation Letter for Master’sHow to Write a Good Motivation Letter for Master’sMotivation Letter for Master’s — ExamplesTips on How to Write a Motivation Letter for a Master’s ProgramMotivation Letter for Master's Degree ExampleMost universities have some requirements for applicants who are undergraduates and above to accomplish before getting the admission letter, especially for MBAs. Not only will you have to submit your undergraduate GPA results, application form, and other detailed information, but a motivation letter for a master’s will also be required. Having a good motivation letter when applying for a master's degree can be the key to you being accepted by the program because it gives a more personal touch to the information that the administrators look at.Why You Need a Good Motivation Letter for Master'sWhen administrators look at your application, they want to know about your goal and intentions, and these are driven by your motivation. Submitting a motivation letter for a master’s degree allows the administrators to have some insights about you. They can also better determine if you are suitable to study in their program. If you have applied for jobs, you might be very familiar with the term cover letter. It is mainly written for job application purposes when you want to impress the employer with your personal information, achievements, experience, and skills. A letter of interest is mostly used when there are no openings for a company or institute but you have the interest to join it. Its main goal is to show your enthusiasm to the employer, hopefully, they will grant a chance for you to join. A motivation letter for a master’s is written for study purposes. It is a letter that uses your experience and achievements as inspiration to motivate your future study goals and plans. It provides more insights and reasons for your university program application. How to Write a Good Motivation Letter for Master'sAfter getting a hold of what is a motivation letter for a master’s degree, let’s go through the steps of writing it. ✍🏻 Research the master’s program the university you are applying for. Before getting into writing, you need to know the course of study and the requirements. Knowing this information can be helpful as a guideline when preparing to write your motivation letter for your master's. Here is some information to take note of when researching: University/Organization nameUniversity locationCourse nameCourse visionsRequirements for documents Mostly, the information that you need can be found on the university’s official website. If by chance, there is some information missing and you would like to know, you can use social platforms like LinkedIn to see if there are any current and past students for you to ask about the information. ✍🏻 Create an organization outline and structure for the master’s motivation letter. If you have not been writing a lot, structuring the master’s application motivation letter before starting the writing can help you have a clear mind on the points made in different sections. It also keeps you on the right track without shifting to irrelevant points. The structure of a motivation letter for a master’s: IntroBody paragraphConclusion Sorting out your information into these three different sections and creating a connection between them will help readers to read easily. ✍🏻 Start by introducing yourself and your purpose for writing in your opening paragraph. The introduction should always be straightforward with a few sentences. You should introduce yourself, incorporate the reason for writing, and the reason why you are a great candidate. Nothing more than this is needed for the first paragraph.Motivation letter template for master’s degree:Dear [Name of The Administrator],My name is [Your name] and I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the Master’s program in [Course name] at [University name]. I have always dreamed of [Your long-term goal], and I believe that studying in the program provided by [University name] would be a great stepping stone for me to reach higher and nearer to my goal. ✍🏻 Elaborate on your past experiences or motivation that makes you a great candidate. In your body paragraph, don’t just state information like bullet points. This is not a resume or a CV. With more space to work with, you should elaborate on those past experiences or motivation that makes you a great candidate. Experience and motivation are the key elements to connect your points and show that you are the right person. If you are not quite sure how to write it, using life stories, experiences, accomplishments, passions, and awards as the motivation for your goal may be simpler.Motivation letter paragraph template for study abroad:I want to study abroad at [University name] because an American tutor from a summer camp inspired me to always grab the chance whenever it’s possible. During my high school years, I have always wanted to study abroad to know more about other countries’ cultural practices. Having the chance to study abroad not only helps me with my future goal to [Your goal] but also allows me to spend time with people from different cultures. Motivation letter paragraph template for masters in computer science:During my university years as an undergraduate, I have participated in projects about UX design, web development, and software development. Completing those projects inspired to pursue a master’s in computer science to adopt and learn more about the new technologies. The well-known professor names, high-quality education standards, and extraordinary post-graduate job opportunities have given me the interest to continue my studies at [University name]. Motivation letter paragraph template for data science master:I found my passion for dealing with data when I was studying data science as a major at [University name].Intending to be a data analyst, I spent time self-studying for the things that could not be learned from university courses. I believe studying at [University name] will be a big step for me to reach my goal. ✍🏻 Conclude by showing appreciation and invitation to discuss. To sum up your motivation letter, you should show appreciation by thanking the administrator for their time. You can also express your excitement about the opportunity and invite them to have an interview with you. Motivation letter closing paragraph template for data science master's:I am more than just grateful for this given opportunity to apply for [University name] and I want to thank you for the time spent looking into my motivation letter. Please email me if there will be any chances for an interview and my email will always be welcome for any further information required. Motivation Letter for Master's - ExamplesMotivation letter for master’s scholarship Dear Mr. Shaw, My name is Janet Curry. Currently, I am a senior in Philosophy and Religious Studies at the University of Pennsylvania. I am writing to express my enthusiasm and need for the master’s scholarship because I plan to remain at the University of Pennsylvania to pursue my studies for the Master’s degree in Philosophy in Liberal Arts for another year. During my studies as an undergraduate, I worked part-time as a tutor to keep up with the living expenses while also gaining work experience and more course understanding. Relating to my studies, I always spend time trying to understand the children’s behavior for a better tutoring approach in my tutor classes. The children’s smiles after finishing the classes kept me motivated to teach them more. It also gave me the motivation to study deeper about philosophy. At the same time, I was inspired to become a university lecturer who teaches philosophy because I find philosophy amusing. I know this goal would not be easy because students’ behavior may differ depending on the lecturer. Pursuing my master’s degree would be the stepping stone and the big leap to my future career goal. Regarding my financial issues, I would like to reduce the amount of time spent on tutoring and focus more on my studies. Having this scholarship means a lot to me as I can study without worrying about my living expenses. The extra time would also be used for class preparations, providing better education for the children whom I tutor. I will be very honored if I am given this scholarship for my master’s degree at the University of Pennsylvania. It would be great if I can have an interview with the admission team to discuss the information. Thank you for the time and I look forward to hearing positive news from you. Sincerely,Janet Curry Motivation letter for master’s in business administration Dear Mr. Larry, My name is Bobby Turner and I am a fresh graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in International Business Management at Lynn University. I plan to pursue my Master’s Degree in Business Administration at SMU Cox School of Business in the upcoming year. I came from a family that has a small business selling motor vehicles. With my family as the greatest influence, I want to start up my own business in the future. This led me to continue studying Business Administration because I believe good management and leadership will create a better workplace for my future employees. When I graduated with a bachelor’s degree, I spent some time working in the family business. Although I have not been working for long, I still gained much valuable experience from the opportunity given by my family. I concluded that continuing studying for a master’s degree will help me with my career building, while also learning much more knowledge from professionals, and expanding my social circle which will be beneficial in the future. After carefully reviewing the course visions and content, I believe this program was designed for people like me who have big dreams. I am specifically interested in the risk management class because anything comes with a risk, and bigger opportunities equal higher risks. I want to learn as much as I can from the courses and be able to approach my goal. I am eager to learn more and I hope to get the opportunity to have an interview to discuss the information stated in my CV. Lastly, thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Regards,Bobby Turner Tips on How to Write a Motivation Letter for a Master's ProgramTake a look at these 5 tips that you should take note of when writing your motivation letter for your master’s: 💡 Avoid grammar and spelling errors. When submitting documents to apply for your master’s, you should show professionalism because there are requirements when they admit a student into the program. Error-free documents are always better in the administrator’s eyes. Hence, double-checking your motivation letter for your master‘s will be a safe way to avoid grammar and spelling errors. 💡 Address the letter specifically, avoid generic salutations. As mentioned above, you should research for information before writing. During your research, you should find out the names of the administrators. This allows you to address the letter specifically instead of using the generic term “Mr. or Ms.” which does not specify who should be reading the letter. Addressing specifically not only shows that you researched the institute, but also shows your enthusiasm in the application as you spent time for the letter’s detailed information. 💡 Do not write more than 1 page. The purpose of a motivation letter for a master’s is to tell the story to the university admission team and convince them that you really want to be part of the institute as a master’s student. Writing more than 1 page will make your letter seem informal and boring because it shows that you did not summarize the main points. Therefore, cut down the irrelevant information and keep your letter to 1 page. 💡 Always be honest genuine. A motivation letter for a master’s degree is a personal letter to show your enthusiasm. Using lies to make up for your lack of experience is not a great way to convince the admission team because they can see through it right away. There are many other ways for you to show your motivation when writing. Hence, you should always be honest and genuine in the letter. 💡 Be interesting. To catch the admission team’s attention, you should always make your story interesting. This is because a boring motivation letter may not get a positive reply. When talking about being interesting, you should get personal with the motivation letter but also relate the story and the motivations.🔑Key TakeawaysFinally, you are at the end of this guide. Let us take a quick look at what you have read. Always research the master’s program, university, and institute for information before writing.Organize your information into different paragraphs to make the writing easier.Include personal information, experience, and achievements to lead to your motivations.Double-check your motivation letter for masters to avoid spelling errors and grammatical errors.Be honest and genuine when writing the letter as the admission team can see through lies.With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume’s PDF formats, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!Create Resume — Originally written by Ryan Goh —

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 information 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? Straightforwardly, 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 effort 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 information 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 information to present yourself better.ProsAllows you to utilize your information 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 before 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 information. 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 information quickly or to schedule an interview.Make sure that this information 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 before including your headshot in. Resume SummaryA resume summary or bio often follows a resume header. While the header contains your basic information, 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 informs 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 performance, 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 California, Berkeley, CA Graduated: May 2016Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Stanford University, Stanford, 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 information 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 performance metrics and leverage data insights to optimize marketing efforts 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, California, 2019Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), CFA Institute, 2024 Certifications and LicensesEarly Childhood Education Credential, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), 2022Teaching Certificate, California Department of Education, 2023 Certifications and LicensesProfessional Engineer (PE) License, California 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 performance, 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 information 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. Therefore, 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 Information: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 information 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 before 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. Therefore, 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 information 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 information 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 information 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 effortlessly build their professional online resumes and portfolios and showcase their skills and accomplishments to potential recruiters and employers. Create Resume --- Originally written by Ryan Goh---

What is a CV? During your job search, you may have wondered what a CV (curriculum vitae) is and how it differs from a resume. These two terms often cause confusion, depending on the countries and the position you apply for. Not understanding the difference between CVs and resumes can lead to the common mistake of using the wrong format when applying for a job, which can diminish your chances of being hired. In this article, we will guide you through the definition of a CV and the key points of creating an ATS-friendly CV. We also provide CV templates for different levels, so make sure to read until the end. Let's dive into the details of crafting an effective CV to start building one! Table of Contents What Is a CV? How to Write an Outstanding Academic CV 5 Extra Tips for Writing Your CV 3 Academic CV Examples Common FAQs about CV What Is A CV? A CV stands for curriculum vitae, comes from Latin and means "course of life." This translation is fitting because CVs are often associated with academic needs. However, in the professional world, even non-academic job postings sometimes ask applicants to send a curriculum vitae instead of a resume. Companies in Southeast Asia, in particular, usually prefer this type of requirement over asking for a "resume." The country that makes the bold distinction between a CV and a resume is the United States. This distinction is made to meet the needs of job seekers themselves. CV formats emphasize the depth of work experience, professional skills, and academic history (include your academic accomplishments) compared to resumes. A CV allows you to detail your entire history of education, courses, training, research, and certifications. For this reason, it is often referred to as an academic CV. CVs are mainly used for candidates who are applying for educational positions, not only for careers but also for scholarships and grants. When an employer asks a candidate to submit a CV, they specifically expect a comprehensive overview of your professional experience and skills. This is very different from a resume, which is usually limited to no more than three pages. Resumes are concise documents highlighting relevant work experience, skills, and achievements tailored to a specific job position. They are designed to be quickly reviewed by recruiters and hiring managers to determine if the candidate is a good fit for the role. However, in some other countries, the terms CV and resume are used interchangeably, and the expectations for the document content may differ. Here is a list of countries and how they typically refer to these documents: United States: Clear distinction between the two. CVs are used for academic purposes, while resumes are used for job applications.Canada: Similar to the United States, with CVs for academic roles and resumes for job applications.United Kingdom: The term CV is used more commonly for job applications, and it usually refers to a document that combines elements of both a CV and a resume.Australia and New Zealand: The term CV is used more frequently than a resume, but the document is similar to a resume in the U.S. context.India: The two terms are often used interchangeably, with CVs being slightly longer and more detailed.South Africa: CV is the commonly used term, similar to a resume in content and length.Europe (General): CV is the preferred term, and the Europass CV format is widely used, combining elements of both a traditional CV and resume. Understanding these regional differences can help you tailor your job application materials to meet the expectations of employers in different countries.Key TakeawaysCV is a comprehensive written list of your work experience (usually related to the field of education). It includes detailed information about your academic background, research, publications, and professional achievements. On the other hand, a resume is a brief, targeted document focused on your qualifications for a specific job. For more details on resumes, you can read more about them in this article.LengthCV: CVs can be longer than 3 pages long, depending on how much experience you have. Some say 10 pages long is the recommended maximum.Resume: The purpose of this is to make it easy for HR to select candidates quickly. Therefore, the recommended length of a resume is one page (three-page max).ContentsCV: A CV does not limit the information you can include as long as it relates to your professional life. If you've had a long career, limiting your list of experiences to the last 15 years is a good idea. 15 years is a long time to work in one field, providing more opportunities to gain accomplishments, attend various trainings, or obtain specialized certifications.Resume: The experience period is even shorter, with only the last 5 to 10 years being the best time to write about. Recruiters usually require candidates to include only information relevant to the position they are applying for.SectionsCV: A CV can contain 9 to 15 sections, including a list of publications.Resume: An average resume consists of 7 sections: personal information, summary, career objective, work experience, skills, education, and other information (languages, certificates, licenses). How to Write an Outstanding CV Crafting an outstanding academic CV requires a meticulous approach that highlights your scholarly achievements, skills, and professional experience in a clear and organized manner. Here's how to write your cv. Personal Information Start with your full name, contact information, and professional title. It's important to be easily reachable, so include your email address, phone number, and any relevant online profiles, such as LinkedIn or an academic website. Ensure this section is clear and easy to find at the top of your CV.Personal Information ExampleDr. Jane SmithEmail: [email protected] Phone: (123) 456-7890 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janesmith Academic Website: janesmithacademic.com Personal Statement Write a concise summary that captures your research interests, career goals, and key achievements. This section should be brief (2-3 sentences) but impactful, giving the reader a quick overview of who you are as a scholar and what drives your academic pursuits.Personal Statement ExampleI am a dedicated researcher with a PhD in Molecular Biology, specializing in genetic engineering. My goal is to contribute to groundbreaking research in gene therapy and mentor the next generation of scientists. I have published extensively in high-impact journals and have secured significant grant funding for my projects. Education List your educational background in chronological order. Include the degree obtained, institution, location, and dates attended. Highlight any honors or distinctions received. This section should clearly demonstrate your academic progression and qualifications.Education Example PhD in Molecular Biology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK, 2015-2019: Dissertation: "Advancements in Gene Editing Techniques" Graduated with Distinction MSc in Biotechnology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, 2013-2015 Thesis: "Applications of CRISPR in Modern Medicine" Dean's List BSc in Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK, 2009-2013 First Class Honors Research Experience Detail your research positions, including the title, institution, dates, and a brief description of your responsibilities and achievements. Focus on specific contributions, methodologies used, and the impact of your work. This section should highlight your research skills and published work.Research ExperienceExample Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 2019-Present Leading a project on the development of novel gene therapy techniques for hereditary diseases Published 5 papers in peer-reviewed journals, including Nature and Science Secured a $200,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health Graduate Research Assistant, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK, 2015-2019 Conducted experiments on CRISPR technology and its applications in gene editing Presented findings at international conferences and symposia Co-authored 3 publications Teaching Experience If you are applying for an academic role, a teaching experience section is a must. Make sure to include your teaching roles, courses taught, institution, dates, and a brief description of your responsibilities to highlight your expertise. Don't forget to emphasize on any innovative teaching methods, student evaluations, and contributions to curriculum development.Teaching ExperienceExample Lecturer, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK, 2017-2019 Taught undergraduate courses in Molecular Biology and Genetics Developed and delivered lectures, laboratory sessions, and exams Received outstanding teaching evaluations from students Teaching Assistant, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK, 2014-2015 Assisted in the instruction of Biotechnology courses Graded assignments and provided feedback to students Conducted office hours and study sessions Publications List your publications in reverse chronological order. Include the title, journal, volume, pages, and year. Highlight any high-impact journals. This section should reflect your contributions to your field and your ability to communicate your research.Publications Example Smith, J., Doe, J. (2023). "Innovations in Gene Therapy for Hereditary Diseases." Nature, 579(7799), 123-128.Smith, J. (2021). "CRISPR-Cas9: Current Applications and Future Directions." Science, 374(6572), 112-117.Smith, J., Brown, A., Lee, K. (2019). "Advancements in Gene Editing Techniques." Molecular Biology Reports, 46(6), 987-993. Presentations Include your presentations at conferences and seminars. List the title, conference name, location, and date. Highlight invited talks or keynote addresses if applicable. This section showcases your ability to disseminate your research and engage with the academic community.Presentations Example "Novel Approaches in Gene Therapy," International Conference on Genetic Engineering, Berlin, Germany, June 2023"CRISPR-Cas9: Ethical Considerations and Future Implications," Annual Biotechnology Symposium, New York, NY, March 2022 "Gene Editing Techniques and Their Applications," European Congress of Molecular Biology, Paris, France, September 2019 Awards and Honors List your academic awards and honors also in reverse chronological order. Include the award name, granting institution, and date. This section should highlight your recognition and achievements within the academic community.Awards and Honors Example NIH Early Career Investigator Award, National Institutes of Health, 2022 Best Dissertation Award, University of Cambridge, 2019 Dean's List, University of Oxford, 2015 First Class Honors, University of Edinburgh, 2013 Grants and Fellowships Detail the grants and fellowships you have received. Include the grant name, granting institution, amount, and date. This section demonstrates your ability to secure funding and support for your research.Grants an Fellowships Example NIH Research Grant, National Institutes of Health, $200,000, 2023-2025 Marie Curie Fellowship, European Commission, €100,000, 2019-2021 Cambridge Trust Scholarship, University of Cambridge, £50,000, 2015-2019 Professional Affiliations List your memberships in professional organizations. Include the organization name and your role if applicable. This section shows your engagement with professional communities and ongoing professional development.Professional Affiliations Member, American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy, 2018-Present Member, European Molecular Biology Organization, 2015-Present President, Biotechnology Club, University of Cambridge, 2017-2018 5 Tips for Writing Your CV Created by CakeResume 1) Pay close attention to the design and layout of your CV Have you ever considered making your CV as flashy as possible to attract attention? If so, it's best to put that idea aside and put yourself in the shoes of the first person who will see your resume. A CV doesn't need a complicated design. In fact, the cleaner and simpler it is, the better recruiters will judge it. Therefore, a clean and simple design and layout is the way to go. You can start by: Ensuring that all text is justify-aligned.Ensuring that the use of fonts is consistent throughout each section. The most commonly used fonts are Arial, Times New Roman, and Calibri in font size 12.Be careful when using color in your CV. It's better to use bold colors to highlight information.The layout used must be consistent in each section.Use the header feature to highlight your name. A mistake beginners make is to use the header for the word 'CV' or 'resume,' which is not necessary.Make sure that there is not too much white space in each sentence. To make sure your CV’s design and layout are consistent and organized, you can use the preview feature in the Print section to see the entire CV. 2) Include numbers to highlight the experience / academic background As with the resume, the use of numbers in CVs also helps recruiters. Numbers serve to highlight your accomplishments and also reinforce your academic background. Use numbers in the summary section of your CV, for example, by mentioning the number of publications, total academic experience, and so on.In addition to numbers, you can use statistics to support the information in your CV.Don't go overboard with numbers or statistics to keep your CV readable by recruiters. 3) How you write your academic CV matters An academic career can vary from teaching to being a resource person for newspapers, magazines, or discussions. But clearly, all of these jobs are not far removed from the world of writing. Just like a scientist who presents his ideas or findings through writing, academics gain credibility in the same way. So if the CV of someone with an academic background is written in a chaotic manner, recruiters will certainly question his or her competence. When creatng your CV, keep the following points in mind: Use consistent grammar to reduce distractions in conveying information, clarify communication in your resume, enhance the recruiter's understanding of your position, and demonstrate your professionalism.Carefully choose the words you use to reinforce and detail your experience. You can use action verbs to avoid passive and weak word choices.Combining action verbs with quantifiable results to maximize their impact would be even better.To make it easier to read, use bullet points to highlight information. 4) Stop using repetitive words Imagine a hiring manager reading your CV and suddenly frowning because he or she feels that the information you provide is repetitive. The reason is that you use too many of the same words in each paragraph. In addition to distracting the reader who is trying to digest information about your background, repetitive words only make you look like an unprofessional academic. Doesn't an academic have to read a lot, from books to newspapers to journals, in order to gain new knowledge? The use of repetitive words in no way reflects the activities that should underpin the way an academic works. There is no other way to increase your vocabulary than to read more, start actively using a thesaurus, and of course, check out the CV online examples at Cake! 5) Tailor your CV document to the job description Tailor your resume by highlighting your experience based on the specific job listing. For example, if you are applying to be a lecturer at Campus A, focus on emphasizing your teaching experience, course development, and student engagement. You might include detailed descriptions of the courses you've taught, innovative teaching methods you've implemented, and positive feedback or evaluations from students. For instance, you could highlight a successful curriculum you designed for a course on Molecular Biology that received outstanding reviews from both students and peers. Additionally, you might mention any workshops or seminars you conducted to enhance student learning. 3 Academic CV Examples Academic CV example for Undergraduate Fresh Grad Pursuing Master's DegreeAcademic CV example for Undergraduate Fresh Grad Pursuing Master's Degree Academic CV example for a graduate student with extensive working experience who has a master's degree and now needs a CV to apply for a PhDAcademic CV example for a graduate student with extensive working experience who has a master's degree and now needs a CV to apply for a PhD Academic CV example for someone who has both a master's degree and a PhD and now is looking for a job at a universityAcademic CV example for someone who has both a master's degree and a PhD and now is looking for a job at a university Common FAQs about CV 1) When to use a CV? / Who should use a CV? The next question is when is the right time to use a CV instead of a resume? What kind of candidates are best suited to use a CV? The answer to this question is that it all depends on the context. Companies may ask applicants to send a CV instead of a resume, even if the job offered is not education-related. In this case, candidates with any background are welcome to use a CV.Use a CV if you are applying for a scholarship to pursue a Master's or Ph.D. degree.Your CV will meet the needs of those applying for positions as researchers, scientists, teachers, and lecturers.In international conferences, especially those related to academic matters, both the appointed speakers and the audience are also required to send CVs for the needs of the event committee.However, if you are still unsure whether the employer wants a shorter resume or a longer CV, it is acceptable to ask before submitting if they'd prefer a comprehensive CV or a resume consisting of highlighted information. 2) What should a CV include? Personal Information: This is basic information such as your name, email address, LinkedIn, GitHub, and so on. You can write this personal information the same way as the resume format.Professional summary: A brief statement of your experience, skills, and accomplishments.Education: A list of your education from highest to lowest. Don't forget to include information such as the name of the institution, the degree you earned, and the date you graduated.Work Experience: A detailed, chronological list of your work experience. For each job, be sure to include the job title, the name of the institution or company, and the dates of employment.Certifications and Licenses: Certifications and licenses are a form of validation of your competence. This information is useful for additional consideration by the institution to which you are applying.Awards and Honors: Awards and honors are achievements bestowed upon you by third parties. They can make your CV stand out.Volunteer Experience: This section is great for graduate students pursuing a master's degree; a list of volunteer experiences can be useful when looking for scholarships.Projects: Project experience is slightly different from work experience. A project is a job with a short duration (a few months), with a working system that is not as fixed as when you work for a company.Publications: The credibility of academics is measured by the number of publications and citations. Publications here are not limited to journals but also include newspapers, magazines, and websites whose credibility can be taken into account.Professional affiliations and memberships: Belonging to a professional organization shows your commitment to your profession. Don't hesitate to include them in your CV.Languages: English is the most common means of communication in academia. An academic needs to be able to communicate with other academics from around the world. So, the more languages you can speak, the better.Hobbies and Interests: This information can be included in the CV if you are a recent graduate to see how active the candidate is outside of work. However, this section is not required at the Master's or Ph.D. level. 3) How long should a CV be? There is no hard and fast rule on how long a CV should be, but some experts suggest that 10 pages is sufficient. It's also a good idea to limit the information you include to the last 15 years of experience. However, if the CV is being used to apply to fields outside of academia, it's best to keep it to no more than 3 pages. Such companies usually use AI engines to filter out suitable applications. A CV that is too long will only put you at a disadvantage. On the other hand, if you are applying for a scholarship, a research position, or even a teaching position, your CV should be comprehensive and include all the details. Logically, the number of applicants in academia will not be as high as in the corporate world, because the requirements are very specific. 4) Should I Put Keywords in My CV? The most frequently asked question is whether keywords are required on a CV. According to Scholarship Canada, it turns out that you still need to include keywordsin your CV, just as you would for a resume. The use of keywords is especiallyimportant if you are applying for a scholarship with hundreds or thousands of applicants. The same source also provides a list of the 7 most popular scholarship resume keywords: LeadershipVolunteerSchool of Community InvolvementAcademic AchievementAthletic AchievementFinancial needExtracurricular activities Meanwhile, you can minimize keywords for teaching positions (teachers, lecturers) and researchers because the competition is usually only in the tens. This is because these positions are very specific, allowing recruiters to read resumes one by one. Educational and research institutions tend to reduce the use of AI in the hiring process. So, whether your resume needs keywords or not, adjust them according to the estimated number of competitors and also the type of position you are seeking. 5) What else should I prepare besides my CV? First, you will need to prepare a motivation letter, which is often called a personal statement. The purpose of this letter is to convince the hiring manager or selection committee that you are the best candidate worthy of selection. There is no specific formula for writing a motivation letter. You just need to ensure that important information, such as work experience and a list of accomplishments, is included in the letter. To strengthen your cover letter, you will also need to include a letter of recommendation or referral from an influential person who is close to you and understands your accomplishments. If you are a recent graduate applying for a master's scholarship, you may request a letter of recommendation from your professor. Key takeaways In some countries, especially in Southeast Asia and parts of Europe, CVs and resumes are often used interchangeably. In fact, a CV is intended for academic purposes, such as applying to be a teacher or lecturer, seeking scholarships, applying for grants, and filling a position as a researcher.A CV has more sections than a resume. Sections in a CV consist of personal information, professional summary, education, work experience, certifications and licenses, awards and honors, volunteer experience (for recent graduates), projects, publications, professional affiliations and memberships, languages, hobbies, and interests (for recent graduates).The CV must be carefully written in a simple design and layout. Applicants should avoid the use of colors, unusual fonts, and grammatical inconsistencies.There is no limit to the number of pages in a CV, although most applicants will include only the last 15 years. The point of a CV is to present information about your professional activities comprehensively. We hope that by now, you will have the answer and all the information you need for the question, "What is a CV?". In addition to providing online CV samples, Cake also has hundreds of articles that can help you in the world of work. Join us now! Ready to give your resume the edge it needs? Try our AI-powered resume checker to identify gaps and optimize your content in seconds. Check My Resume — Originally written by Erika Rizqi —

In today’s world, there are many ways to submit a job application: in-person, job-search platforms such as CakeResume and LinkedIn, and the company's official website. Despite that, email to send resume is still relevant as many recruiters require job-seekers to email job applications and documents.As you send your resume by email, the content of email with a resume is exceptionally important since it is the first thing that recruiters will see. So, if you’re wondering what to write in an email when sending a resume, in this article, we will guide you to write an effective job application email that is eye-catching and convincing. Table of ContentsWhat to Write in an Email When Sending a ResumeSimple Job Application Email SamplesTips for Writing an Email to Send a Resume for Job Applications What to Write in an Email When Sending a ResumeWhen Considering what to write in an email when sending a resume, think of the elements that need to be included in it. Each element plays a role and conveys a different message. We compile the following list for you to format your mail properly as you email your resume.Here are the 7 key elements for a resume mail format: 1) A Clear Subject LineThe subject line is the first things recruiters look at and determine whether they will open your job application email or not. So when sending your job application email, ask yourself if the subject line is clear enough. You can use this format to write your subject line: [Application] + [Job Position You're Applying For] at [COMPANY NAME] + [Your Name]. Let’s take a look at this simple job application email sample:Example of an email subject line for sending a resume #1[Application] Marketing Manager at ABC Company — Frank Davies Keep in mind that some job vacancies ask applicants to use specific guidelines when sending resume via email, so make sure to follow that. 2) Greetings There are various ways to greet when sending an email with a resume. While you can be creative, it's better to be direct and professional. Find out who you’ll send this email to, and if you don’t know the name of the recipient, you can simply use “hiring manager” or “Recruitment Department at XYZ company. 3) Self Introduction and Objectives Start off your email by stating who you are and why you are writing the email. The job application email sample is indicated at the bottom of this article, but to summarize, the opening statement(s) of your email should be a brief presentation of your application. Here are some examples of how to write a self-introduction and email objectives when sending your resume via email: Examples of introduction when emailing a resume:“My name is Roger Jones. I’m writing this email to express my interest in the job vacancy at Valcor”“My name is Roger Jones, and I am submitting my application for the current job opening as Financial Analyst at Valcor.”“My name is Roger Jones. I came across Valcor's job ads on CakeResume, and I am keen on applying for the Marketing Specialist position."The first section/paragraph of your job application email should not be more than three sentences. Keep it short and straight to the point, and remember to avoid using possessive pronouns when referring to the company you’re applying for (e.g., “your company”); you should use the company names instead.It is also important to come up with a universal introduction if you are going to use a bulk email sender to send your resume. 4) Reasons for Applying and Your Accomplishments After the greeting and the introduction, your next paragraph should talk about your qualifications and why you are interested in working for them. You can also let them know what’s the job description that makes you want to apply for the position. Here are some guidelines for you: AccomplishmentsRelevant work experienceQualifications directly related to the job description’s requirements You can also include your most outstanding license or certification or even extracurricular activities like relevant internships, achievements in uni, and relevant courses. However, don’t go in-depth! You want to write a brief summary of your relevant accomplishments to catch the attention of recruiters as well as intrigue them to open your resume. 5) Proposal to Meet in Person This part is the last section before closing and signing your name. A proposal to meet in person is a sign of enthusiasm and work-ready. Simply state that you’re willing to meet to have further discussion about the vacancy and qualifications. You can also let them know that you welcome any questions they have about your resume or experience. 6) Attached Resume Employers usually require you to send your resume in either a Word or pdf format via mail. If they don't specify their preference for the format of your resume files, send your resume to the HR in PDF format to avoid technical issues. 7) Professional Signature with Contact Details Finish your job application email with a professional e-signature, name, and contact details like phone number and email address. You can also add your digital business card, which has quick access to all your contact information.This gives a personal and professional touch to your email to which your resume is attached.Simple Job Application Email Samples Created by CakeResumeNow that we have discussed the important elements to include in a job application email, let's review three sample emails for reference. These examples can guide you not only on the formatting of the email but also on what sentences to write when you send your resume. Job application email sample #1 Subject: Job Application - Operations Manager, Job ID #27423 - Michael WilsonDear Mr. Adams,My name is Michael Wilson, an experience operation manager with three years of experience. I came across Vallo's job post on CakeResume and am interested in applying for the vacancy. I have attached my resume and cover letter to this email for your consideration. For the past 10 years, I have handled many capital projects, operations management, and process improvement. I want to be part of a team that will make the mission of Vallo Inc. a reality. Moreover, I believe Vallo has the financial strength and stability to allow me to gain more expertise. I welcome the opportunity to have a one-on-one meeting with you to learn more about the opening position. I can be reached at [email protected]. Thank you for your time and considerationSincerely,[Signature]Michael WilsonOperations [email protected](+81) 0000-2382 Job application email sample #2 Subject: Marketing Assistant Application - Frederick WaltersDear Hiring Manager,I am interested in applying for the position of marketing assistant at Tello Inc. My resume and cover letter are attached to this email for your consideration. For the past eight years, I have been responsible for creating marketing plans for various companies. Moreover, I have executed marketing plans on my own and have provided marketing advice to clients. I believe these qualifications will benefit Tello’s short-term and long-term goals. I appreciate you taking the time to review my resume and my cover letter. Looking forward to hearing from you. Sincerely,Frederick WaltersMarketing Specialist[email protected](+15) 0000-3219 Sample email when mailing a resume #3 Subject: [APPLICATION] Graphic Designer Internship at Be Creative - Lester WilliamsDear Mr. Adams,My name is Lester Williams. I graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design. As I came across your job posting on CakeResume, I’m really keen on being a part of your company. I have recently worked for Eternal Publishing, and I am very eager to apply my skills and knowledge acquired from this internship to contribute to Be Creative. I have attached my resume and portfolio for your review and consideration Thank you for reviewing my application. Looking forward to hearing about any steps or procedures. Lester Williams[email protected](+4) 0000-4657www.linkedin.com/in/lester_williams Ready to give your resume the edge it needs? Try our AI-powered resume checker to identify gaps and optimize your content in seconds. Check My Resume Tips for Writing an Email to Send a Resume for Job ApplicationsPut your cover letter in your email when sending your resume.While you can use your cover letter as a job application email, in most cases, you just need to send a short message to notify the recruiter about your application. Hence, it’s recommended to add a cover letter to your email when sending a resume to help companies understand your work experience and aspirations in a more comprehensive way. Use a professional-looking email address.While what to write in the mail when sending a resume is important, so is the “who,” and that is your email address. Using your first and last name as an email address is a safe practice. If you need to include numbers, try to use a few digits and make sure these don’t have inappropriate associations (e.g., 666). Address the hiring manager by their name.For better results, it is best to write the recruiter’s name in the greeting while sending your resume. If you can’t find their name, stick to writing “Hiring manager.” Be straight to the point and concise.As shown in each job application email sample, your body text should be concise and clear. Remember that what you say when emailing a resume is to introduce yourself and briefly state your motivation and qualifications. Use the correct resume file format.Before you attach your resume to the email and send it out to HR, make sure your resume is in the correct format. Some companies specify what file format they want, but when there is no such requirement/instruction, sending in your resume in PDF format is the safest option. Proofread.Thoroughly check your mail, including the subject line, the email body, and your signature, for any mistakes when you are about to send out your job application email. Send a test email message to yourself.An excellent practice is to have a preview of how your email looks to the receiver, so send a test email to yourself to see if your resume mail and its format are on-point.Add a LinkedIn URL, personal website, or portfolio link.Knowing what to say when emailing a resume is important, but if you have a presentable and eye-catching portfolio, recruiters will surely take your application into consideration. So don’t be shy away from including them.Key TakeawaysWhen sending your resume via email, the email is like a ‘preface’ of your application, so knowing what to say in every part of the email and how to format it is important to get your application reviewed. Make sure to format your email properly when sending an email, the best practice is to follow any format recruiters ask for when submitting your application. If there are no specifications on formatting, follow the rules for general business letters when you send your resume via email.Remember, job application emails sent to HR for your job application should highlight your strengths and qualifications like a cover letter but shouldn't be as long as one, don’t forget to include a properly formatted resume as an attachment.Your resume can be made with a free resume builder like CakeResume, which also provides you with thousands of ready-to-use resume templates. With simple drag-drop action, you can create an eye-catching and compelling resume. Found this article helpful? Follow us for more! --- Originally written byJose J. Rosales---

It takes more than resumes and hard work to launch an ideal job and develop your career nowadays. You also need a strong and diverse professional network, and LinkedIn helps you with that.OverviewWhat is LinkedIn?How to use LinkedIn and why it’s usefulTop 5 tips to build a job-winning LinkedIn profileMake sure you take advantage of LinkedIn as a tool to impress recruiters, attract business opportunities, learn industry trends and boost your career. Read on to learn how!What is LinkedIn? LinkedIn is an online social networking platform, just like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, but mainly for professional purposes. Instead of making “friends”, people make “connections” on LinkedIn. Instead of sharing personal lives and hobbies, people share their professional experiences and achievements. As you might know, networks and connections make a huge difference in career development, and LinkedIn is the most popular tool to build and nurture professional networks. It has more than 675 million members worldwide, including executives from all of the Fortune 500 companies. How to use LinkedIn and why it’s useful 1. Search for Jobs LinkedIn is a convenient job hunting platform for several reasons:You can view the company page to learn more about the companyYou can find employees of the company on the company page to ask questions or ask for referralsYou can directly apply with your LinkedIn profileYou can set up job alerts: LinkedIn will notify you when an opening appearsYou can use search filters to help find the right job for you If you pay for a premium subscription, you can have access to even more features such as seeing where you stand compared to other candidates. 2. Expand Your Professional Network The main purpose of LinkedIn is to build a professional network. Beside interacting with your existing connections, it also enables you to expand your network without looking like a fraud or a creep. First of all, different from most social platforms, LinkedIn shows you how far away you are from other individuals, such as 2nd or 3rd degree, meaning that the person knows at least one of your connections, or the person knows at least one person who knows one of your connections. These weak ties are usually the ones you can reach out to by asking mutual connections to introduce you. Secondly, it is easy to find someone in common through LinkedIn profiles, such as those who went to your school or those who worked in a similar space as you did. Reaching out to these people is a great way to start expanding your network.More networking tips:Why Networking Helps You Land a Job: 6 Easy Ways for College Students 3. Personal Branding Whether you’re looking to draw attention from potential employers, clients or colleagues, LinkedIn can help you create your personal brand. For example, headhunters can share their stories about how they helped a candidate land an ideal job. Designers can share their projects and what they learned from the experience. Executives can also share their points on people management or industry trends. LinkedIn is a space to talk about your work comfortably while maintaining your personal brand at the same time, which opens doors to further opportunities. Further reading:5 Ways to Build an Unstoppable Personal Brand 4. Professional Learning You can learn a lot on LinkedIn, professionally. For example, you can follow industry experts and influencers to catch up with trends and insights. For example, Bill Gates posts about major social issues and his insights frequently, gaining 29 million followers. You can also join groups or follow certain hashtags to expose yourself to more professionals and knowledge. If you’re looking for a more systematic approach, LinkedIn Learning contains a rich list of online courses with certifications for you to add to your LinkedIn profile. 5 tips to create the best LinkedIn profile 1. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated. Unlike a resume document which you can update before sending it to someone, you don’t know when your LinkedIn profile is being seen. You don’t want a potential employer or business partner to see outdated information, so make sure your job title, company name and location are all accurate and up to date.2. Use a professional LinkedIn photo. When you appear in the search results, your profile photo makes the first impression and helps people decide whether they should check your profile. LinkedIn is a professional space where people look for reliable and trustworthy professionals - you should at least look like one. Avoid goofy selfies, group photos, outdated photos and photos that simply don’t show your face clear enough.3. Deliberately craft your LinkedIn headline. Other than your LinkedIn profile photo, your headline also shows up on a search results page. It also determines whether you show up in the search results. For example, if someone searches for “social media” and your headline shows “social media curator”, you would be among the top of the results. However, if you choose to write “creative writer”, you might not show up on the page at all. Therefore, do some research on the terms and keywords that people often use regarding your expertise and integrate them into your LinkedIn headline. Don’t make it too long though - it might look spammy and less trustworthy.4. Make great use of your LinkedIn summary. The About section on your LinkedIn profile is a great place to sell yourself. Think of it as a longer, more flexible and more creative resume summary. You can talk about your career goals, achievements, motivation, core skills and even personality or interests outside of work. There is no right format - just keep the text within 1-2 paragraphs so that people will actually read it.5. Request LinkedIn recommendations and ask for endorsements. One major difference between LinkedIn profiles and resumes is the feature of recommendations and endorsements from your connections. Having them makes you look more trustworthy and reliable, especially because people can further check the source. It’s a great idea to request recommendations from your former boss, client or colleagues because they actually worked with you.Further reading:For Freshers: Tips to Land Your Coveted JobAfter you build a strong LinkedIn profile, you can start sharing insightful posts and nurture your professional network. If you're hunting for a job, consider adding a link to your resume in your profile too! While LinkedIn helps you with networking, Cake helps you with resumes.Try our online resume builder to easily build and download a stunning resume for free!Start Now

Functional Resume Format: What It Is And How To Write OneCompared to the chronological resume format, the functional resume format is not commonly used in job applications. However, because it is a skills-based functional resume example, this format benefits recent graduates who want to explain their professional strengths. There is no standard resume format in the world of work. Employers and hiring managers find it helpful when candidates customize their resumes according to their work history and key skills. Choosing a suitable format with job-relevant skills will help speed up the selection process. In short, a functional resume format is the right choice for job seekers with minimal work history or those looking for a career change. Let us help you even more. Cake provides a functional resume template and an example—all free templates! So buckle up, and let's dive into our informative article about functional resumes.Table of Contents:Differentiate Between a Functional Resume and Other Resume FormatsWhen Should You Use a Functional Resume?How to Write a Functional Resume FormatFunctional Resume Template and Examples5 Tips for a Winning ApplicationKey TakeawaysDifferentiate Between a Functional Resume and Other Resume Formats What's a Functional Resume? A functional resume, sometimes referred to as a skills-based resume, focuses less on work history and more on information about key skills and areas of expertise. As such, it accommodates job seekers with no previous experience. What we mean by ‘relevant’ is a list of technical skills and other transferable skills or valuable skills used. Relevant skill information should be listed in the cover letter and resume summary. Having supporting data, such as a history of internships, organization membership, or volunteer work participation, even makes it better. However, even if you have never been involved in professional activities, you can still create a compelling functional resume that attracts attention. As the Harvard Business Review points out, the trick is to give your own functional resume focuses of a soul, not just a descriptive one. What About the Reverse Chronological Resume? Many job seekers with a linear career path use a reverse chronological order resume (also known as chronological resume), the easiest type to create. In a reverse chronological order resume, all information is written with the most recent experience at the top. At first glance, chronological and functional resumes look the same. However, it is not the job of functional resume format focuses emphasizes work history, relevant responsibilities, and accomplishments. It is a chronological resume job. For this type of traditional resume format, hiring managers will focus on the accomplishments of candidates with more than four years of relevant experience, usually written with measurable achievement. Successfully increased the company's profit by 50% in the first quarter of 2023. This sentence highlights the applicant's achievement. The difference between chronological and functional resume formats is also related to the layout of the information. Relevant experience is the primary information for the chronological resume, which should be placed below the functional resume highlight and summary. Meanwhile, The education history is placed directly below the resume summary in a functional resume. Quite different, isn’t it? Opt for a Combinational Resume to Showcase Your Projects and Portfolio The combination resume is the least popular format, especially when compared to a functional and reverse chronological resume format. This format goes against the writing logic in reserve. In a combination resume, you list your relevant skills. Then, at the end of each technical skill, you list the work experience corresponding to that skill. Here's an exampleSuccessfully assisted client XXX in conducting a market analysis that increased the number of new customers by 25% in the second quarter of 2023. Played a role in improving the client's business by helping to develop a long-term strategy that increased profit potential by 90%. The combination resume format is often used by job seekers or freelancers who have varied experience. A freelancer may simultaneously accept a job as a translator, data entry clerk, or even an illustrator. Combination resumes help this group organize their expertise more effectively.When Should You Use a Functional Resume? When you are applying for your first job: As discussed earlier, the functional resume format gives an advantage to recent graduates with specific skills. Use this skills-based resume format to compensate for your lack of experience with your key skills.When you are a job seeker who doesn't have enough experience: There are many situations and conditions that surround job seekers. One is the difficulty of finding a job in the first, second, or third year after graduation. If you're in this situation, be confident! Functional resume highlights will help you put your potential in writing.When you want to switch careers: We understand that sometimes your current job isn't your dream career. Then one day, you are determined to do a job you've always wanted, even though you've never done it before. This happens to a lot of people. Functional formatting can help you organize what information is appropriate for your resume.When you have employment gaps: Employment gaps can happen to anyone. There are many cases where a worker quits because they need to be a caregiver for their family. The gaps in your resume are not a barrier; the functional skills resume formats can be an alternative to getting the job you want to return to. How to Write a Functional Resume Format 1) Start With a Professional Summary That Highlights Your Skills and Qualifications Recruiters have no more than 2 minutes to decide whether or not to give a candidate a job interview. The first piece of information they look for is a professional summary of no more than three sentences. An example:"Graduate of Applied Mathematics Science from Gadah Mada University, Indonesia, with a GPA of 3.8.4.0. Analytical and critical thinking skills as demonstrated by proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Tableau. Seeking a position as a Junior Data Analyst to utilize my skills and develop my talents with Bloomsbury, Inc.” 2) Include Your Education History in the Functional Resume Format This information is important for recruiters to determine whether your educational history is the most relevant skill to the position you are applying for and to ensure a network of alumni who can ask about you. Let's look at this exampleEDUCATIONUniversity of Indonesia, Jan 2020 - Jan 2024Major in Finance, Minor in AccountingSumma Cum LaudeThesis: The Impact of Accounting Practices on Firm Financial Performance: A Case Study Analysis in Bank X 3) List Your Relevant Skills and Achievements in a Skills Section for a Functional Resume It has been repeatedly emphasized that a functional resume highlights relevant skills. You can divide this section into two parts: technical skills and non-technical skills. Explain why you have these skills. If possible, include a list of relevant achievements, certificates, or training you have received. If you include a technical skill, like OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence), in your resume, remember to include the experience demonstrating your skills. Here's an example:Master using scraping tools and techniques to extract data from various sources, especially websites.Master the ability to identify patterns and trends using social media data.Ability to analyze sentiment and public opinion using various social media platforms.Course: OSINT Analyst, Cyber Academy Indonesia - Jan - Dec 2023Course: Practical Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), SEC497 - Aug 2022 Another example, if you decide to include critical thinking in your resume, here's what you should write in the resume's body:Ability to translate complex information into something more accessible and understandable to a broad audience.Ability to connect the dots of disparate information and data into a complete and comprehensive picture. 4) Use Bullet Points to Make Your Skills and Achievements Easy to Read in a Functional Resume The next step in writing a functional resume format is to use bullet points. This makes the summarized information easier to read and more organized, which will help recruiters scan your first functional format and resume more quickly. In addition to bullet points, use the correct font type, size, and margins. 5) Replace Lack of Work History With Volunteer or Organizational Activities Even if your volunteer or organizational activities are unrelated to the position you are applying for, don't be afraid to include them on your functional resume. These activities can provide a complete picture of your job responsibilities, professional growth, and dedication.Volunteer ExperienceSocial Media Officer at Animal Rescue for Humanity Jan 2022 - Aug 2022Created daily educational wildlife rescue videos and photo content for Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.Helped increase Animal Rescue for Humanity's social media engagement by 20% in 6 months.Analyzed trends to develop content strategies using various tools. Functional Resume Template and Examples This is definitely the section you've been waiting for, functional resume examples! Yes, these functional resume examples created by Cake follow your process and give you a clear idea of what to read. Use the examples below as a starting point and customize your functional resume sample to suit your needs. Check these functional resume examples! A Functional Resume With a Portfolio Included A Functional Resume Template With No Portfolio A Functional Resume Template of a Career ChangerA Functional Resume Example for Customer ServiceFunctional Resume Example for Teachers 5 Tips for a Winning Application1) Do in-depth research on the company you are applying to The job search is a grueling process, and research can help ease the burden. Here are some of the benefits of doing in-depth research before writing a functional resume: You'll get a clear picture of the company you're applying to, including average salary, career growth, work culture, and whether or not the work environment is supportive.Research is a testament to how much you want to get hired. The hiring manager will also consider this factor when evaluating your personality.Don't have a work history? The research will make you more confident when explaining your transferable skills! 2) Use the right keywords in your functional resume A job seeker may forget one important factor in getting their cover letter through the Applicant Tracking System (ATS ): using the right keywords and placing them in the summary, work or employment history, job title, or even the cover letter. Here's a simple trick to get the right keywords: Find keywords in the job description or requirements section of the job posting.Go to the company's website and social media and see if there is any content related to the position you are applying for.Browse the company's LinkedIn content to see what the employer values.JOB DESCRIPTIONCreate and collect data, and validate data and information from multiple sources.Classify data and information as needed using databases or dashboards.Identify, analyze, and interpret the data and information obtained.Coordinate with related departments to create data reports and vice versa.Requirements:Minimum education D3 / S1 All majors.Maximum age 35 years.Have at least one year of experience as a data analyst.Understand the process of analyzing, inputting, and processing data.Proficient in Microsoft Excel. From the example above, the keywords are data analyst, proficient in Microsoft Excel, classify data and information, analyze data and information, etc. 3) Proofread Your Resume A good tip for functional resumes is to proofread them before sending them to employers or job search platforms like Cake. Use the list below to make sure your functional resume is up to standard: My functional resume helps me emphasize relevant skills I have.There are no typos or information errors in my functional resume.I have used the right keywords and tailored my functional resume to the position I am applying for.The functional resume uses a standard font size, typeface, and margin size.The functional resume should be no longer than two pages.The functional resume does not include sensitive information to prevent data leakage and misuse. 4) Avoid Mistakes When Using Functional Resumes The tips and how-to's for creating a functional resume have been made; now it's time to make sure you don't make basic mistakes like: Use a functional resume when you have a strong work history and want to highlight your experience.Use a functional resume when you are applying for a job that requires a lot of experience.Use a functional resume when you have not tailored it to the job you are applying for. 5) Don't Forget to Include a Cover Letter A functional resume is incomplete without a cover letter. Think of a cover letter as your first line of communication with hiring managers. It tells them who you are, your skills, and why you apply. So it's time to take the time to create a cover letter for every job application. Don't worry. Cake has easy tips to help you. Check them out below. The first paragraph should provide background information, starting with your education if you are a recent graduate. Then list your skills and tools.The next paragraph can be filled with work experience, such as work history, volunteer and organizational experience, or even internship experience. If you have little experience, you can fill it in by further explaining your skills.Write about why you are the right person for the job.Finally, close your cover letter by showing how excited you are to join the company. COVER LETTER EXAMPLEJane DoeJakarta, Indonesia(+62)[email protected] Jul 8, 2024 To:Daniel AmstrongHuman Resources ManagerWells Company321, BSD CityJakarta, Indonesia Dear Mr. Amstrong I am writing to express my interest in the Content Marketing position at Cake Global. As a recent graduate from Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia, where I majored in Communication, I studied marketing in depth, from its definition and scope to the evolution of marketing thought. The material I learned during my undergraduate studies led me to delve further into the world of market research professionals. I mastered quantitative research tools such as surveys, online analytics, web tracking tools, A/B testing, and split testing tools. My combination of marketing skills, communication skills, and scientific knowledge makes me confident that I am a suitable candidate for a market researcher position at Bloom, Inc. I have also been following your company's development for the past two years and believe that this is the right time for me to join the team. Although I do not have extensive work history, I am someone who is very open to learning new things and willing to work hard to accomplish the tasks assigned to me. As proof, I even used the Internet to learn what I needed to know to become a market researcher. I believe that my willingness to learn and my ability to master several tools make me an ideal candidate for Bloom, Inc. Therefore, I am enclosing my resume with this letter. If you have any further questions regarding my background, I would happily be contacted via email. Thank you for your consideration of my application. Sincerely, Jane DoeKey Takeaways The functional resume format is appropriate for people who are applying for their first job, don't have enough work experience, are changing careers in a field they've never worked in before, or have employment gaps for various reasons.Functional resumes focus on relevant skills rather than work history, like chronological resumes. Hopefully, the above article has made it easier to quickly create a functional resume format. Need more tips on the job market? Or would you like the opportunity to talk to professionals? Then it's time to join Cake and make your job search more enjoyable and find hundreds of free resume templates. Sign up now with Cake, the best resume builder! — Originally written by Erika Rizqi —

Created by CakeCareer development refers to a collection of milestones to achieve long-term professional goals. It is a lifelong process which requires a strong commitment to continuously learn, adapt, and build connections in order to gain career accomplishments in the long run. Being proactive in developing your career will not only leverage your personal and professional growth, it will also make you a valuable asset in the ever-changing job market. This article will give you insights about the importance of career development and provide guidance to help you create your own career development plan, step by step.Table of Contents:What Is Career Development?Why Is Career Development Important?What Is a Career Development Plan?4 Types of Career DevelopmentHow to Create a Career Development PlanCareer Development TipsWhat Is Career Development?Career development is a process of learning and enhancing skill sets to achieve one’s long-term career goals. As you pave your way to professional success, this never-ending process can be visualized as a collection of stepping stones to help you accomplish in your chosen profession. This process plays a significant role in shaping your career path because it enables you to explore and reflect different aspects of your current state of being. It involves a series of well-planned steps and actions aimed to enhance your skills, knowledge, and experiences. Why Is Career Development Important?Career development is significant because it empowers people to reach their full potential in their designated field. It essentially helps professionals meet career satisfaction and success, contributes to higher earning potential, and improves job performance. In fact, 87% of millennials agree that learning and development is important in the workplace, Lorman revealed. Helps Achieve Career Satisfaction It is found that 41% of employees consider career advancement opportunities a dominant factor to achieve job satisfaction. Career development boosts satisfaction and success by ensuring that professionals contribute to higher productivity and performance. Consequently, it gives a sense of pride and makes employees feel valued as they are consistently improving themselves each step of the way. Increases Higher Pay and Professional Growth Investing in career development offers higher-paying job opportunities and long-term growth in your career path. The process allows you to set career goals, acquire related skills, and deliver optimal performance. Once you’ve achieved certain milestones, it makes you more valuable, leading to job promotions and salary increases. Boosts Job Performance An article published in the International Journal of Research revealed that career development has the biggest impact on employee performance compared to the effect of training. Meaning that organizations that support employees by developing strategies to help them move forward towards career achievements have a positive impact on their performance (Sellar, 2022). Besides, the process helps employees gain confidence and motivates them to put their best effort in their job as they are offered opportunities to climb their career ladder from having strategic career development.What Is a Career Development Plan?A career development plan is a document created to outline your career goals and the steps you have to take to accomplish them. Whether you are an employee working in an organization or an independent freelancer, it aims to navigate professionals throughout their career progression. Having a structured career development plan is a great kick-start to career success. It serves as a roadmap to guide you to stay on the right track in achieving your professional goals and aspirations. Although it may seem a bit under pressure having to follow each established career step, keep in mind that career development plans are adaptable. Consider the rapidly changing world where automation is becoming more and more replaceable to humans. It is therefore very important to keep an eye out for unexpected changes and make adjustments any time along the way.4 Types of Career DevelopmentWe’ll introduce you to four different types of career development based on professions. Let’s see which one best fits your current state. Knowledge-based Career Development In this type of career development, it is important to always keep yourself updated with new knowledge related to your work field. Many companies are even willing to spend large budgets in top-notch training programs to help their employees improve. There are plenty of sources where people can gain access to useful insights these days. Employees can benefit from both in-house and external training programs provided by the organization. Besides, there are also many options to enhance your knowledge by exploring interesting workshops, seminars, or online learning platforms that relate to your job field.Skill-based Career Development Skill-based career development focuses on being equipped with the right skills to specialize in your expertise for your career growth. The key is to identify the skills you already have and the ones that you need to obtain aligning to your professional goals. Take note that it’s as important to keep flourishing your existing skills as to acquire new ones. Obtaining on-the-job experience is a learning approach to gain practical skills you need for your job. As the name suggests, it’s a learning-by-doing process which allows you to obtain actual skills from hands-on training in a normal working environment. To move forward, skill-specific training can also benefit you and your organization in terms of motivation and productivity. Looking out for these learning opportunities will get you armed with realistic skills needed for specific roles.Entrepreneur-based Career Development This type of career development approach highlights entrepreneurial mindsets enhancement. It shapes the career journey of business owners allowing them to develop business ideas and essential entrepreneurial skills. Running a business can be tough. So, how do aspiring entrepreneurs come up with brilliant business ideas? There are in fact, many great sources of generating business ideas. For instance, surveys, hobbies, knowledge from previous experience, client complaints, mentorship and networking. It’s highly recommended to build a network and seek mentorship when it comes to entrepreneurship. You’ll benefit from getting connected to industry experts who can provide valuable insights to satisfy your consumers. Besides, it could serve as a shortcut to grow your business.Freelance Career Development People who pursue a freelancing career path enjoy being able to work anytime, anywhere. Since the common 9-5 work might not be ideal for everyone these days, more and more people turn to freelancing jobs because they prefer flexibility and independence. There’s also no need for formal dress codes. Kickstart your freelancing career by building a strong portfolio to keep the workload coming. Make sure you showcase your talent and skills your clients want to see. Also remember to include your high-quality and most relevant work examples, highlight your experience with clear explanations of each work, and explain the tools used to emphasize your proficiencies. It’s also important to establish your brand. Start by building your online personal brand and connect with people you’re interested in on communication platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Next, create a website or webpage by using website builders to make yourself trustable online. Also, don’t forget to use social media to market your identity.How to Create a Career Development Plan Establishing a career development plan may sound intimidating. Follow these four easy steps to achieve career success. 1. Self-assessment The very first step to building a career development plan is by identifying the current state of your career. It creates a good foundation to help you understand yourself better, so take some time to analyze your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. Here are some simple questions to consider:What are my previous experiences?What are my talents and skills?What do I enjoy doing?What motivates me at work?Do I prefer to work independently or in a team? Utilize the right self-assessment tools to assist you in this process. You can either record your thoughts on guided journaling, create a career portfolio, or take online self-assessment tests, suggested by Indeed. 2. Do the Research and Get Hands-on Experience In this step, do some research on industries, companies, and career paths that meet your interests and goals. Another great way to expose yourself to the career you are aiming for is to seek internships, job shadowing, or freelance opportunities. By doing so, you’ll gain hands-on experience that will give you a clearer picture of what it’s like in the real working environment.3. Establish Goals and Look for Gaps Next, think about the goals you hope to accomplish. Whether they are short-term, mid-term, or long-term goals, make sure they follow the SMART goal framework. Effective goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Setting specific goals gives a clearer direction as you progress through your career path. Knowing exactly what you’re trying to accomplish will help in planning and taking the right action. It’s very important to set achievable goals. Don’t make yourself feel overwhelmed by mission-to-the moon goals. Having goals within reach will keep you motivated throughout your career development process. Examples of practical goals:Earn two relevant certifications within the next quarterAttend networking events and connect with expertsTake a leadership role in a new team project in 2 years As you work toward your goals, don't forget to look for gaps to find out what is preventing you from reaching them. 4. Evaluate, Adjust, and Repeat Unpredicted circumstances sometimes show up out of nowhere. Certain changes can affect your well-established goals any time, and that is okay. The important thing is to make sure you regularly review, adjust, and update your career development plan as you progress. It’s also important to be adaptable when things don’t turn out as planned. Keep an open mind for new knowledge and make sure to explore new opportunities. Career Development Tips Good career advice can guide you in the right direction. Here are some useful tips for career development. Tip 1: Invest in Learning Opportunities No investment is ever wasted on education. Add self value by educating yourself and acquiring new skills relevant to your career. Career development is an ongoing journey, so make sure you continuously grasp learning opportunities through workshops, webinars, and career development courses.New trends and information rapidly come and go. Keeping your knowledge and skills fresh is important as it allows you to stay ahead of competitors in the job market. Tip 2: Be Intentional and Take Initiative Keep yourself proactive throughout your career development process. Take the initiative to look out for growth opportunities by embracing continuous learning, being updated to industry trends, and seeking constructive feedback from supervisors and colleagues. Remember that you are the main character of this career journey, so it’s important to have full commitment to your own career development.Tip 3: Hone Your Communication Skills Communication skill is an essential tool you’ll need for career advancement. This soft skill contributes to effective collaboration with your team and stakeholders. Possessing clear and concise communication allows you to clearly express your ideas in meetings, build positive relationships in the workplace, as well as bring leadership opportunities. Here is some career advice to ace your verbal and written communication skills. First thing’s first, keep practicing. Make great use of your free time to do some written and speaking tasks, or take courses to upgrade your skills. It’s also useful to ask for help by having tutorial sessions from those who have excellent communications skills surrounding you. Next, read books on grammar or self-development to expand your vocabulary and improve your grammar.Tip 4: Build Your Network Developing professional relationships can be more beneficial than you think. Not only do they lead to great job opportunities, but you will gain valuable insights of different perspectives, stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends, and receive professional guidance to advance your career. Tips to establish connections: Attend industry events Participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops in your job field.Utilize online platformsFor example, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc.Communicate effectivelyBe clear and concise to the messages you want to convey.Stay in touchMaintain relationships by updating career milestones and give support to your connections when needed. 🔑 Key TakeawaysIn this article, we’ve walked you through the definition of career development, its importance, the ways to define a career development plan, different types of career development, methods of creating a career development plan, and career success tips. Whether you are working in an organization or freelancing, career development applies for everyone. It may take a lot of effort to manage, but having clear directions of what you want to accomplish would help you to achieve long-term success and fulfillment. You can simply start by creating your own career development plan to shape a bright future coming ahead.Cake, a free resume builder, helps you create a one-page platform by combining a social media-based personal website and a resume together. We also provide you with hundreds of free resume templates download and resume examples that help showcase the best you. You can now build your own unique and professional profile today. Follow us for more advice!Create Resume--- Originally written by Ainee Setthamalinee ---

Created by CakeIn this article, we'll walk you through:What is Job Shadowing?How to Job ShadowTips for a Successful Job Shadowing ExperienceJob Shadow Request Sample LetterFor young adults or career changers seeking to enter an industry, classrooms often don’t have much to offer. There are times when shadowing a professional can teach you more than a textbook can. A job shadow, or career shadowing, gives you a peek at “what it’s like to be” do a certain job. To shadow someone at work means following and observing a professional during their typical workday. For example, students who study computer science can do engineering shadowing. Students who study nursing or physiotherapy can also go to the hospital to job shadow a physical therapist or a nurse. Common Job Shadowing Examples:Observing interviews and recruitment (HR shadowing)Observe workflow and communicationObserving meetings and presentations with clientComplete office tasks and supporting workFollowing hospital care procedures and communication policyLearning about the policies and SOPs of officesLearning about the missions and goals of the organization The experience of shadowing a professional can be insightful and helpful. You get to determine if you are suitable for the job or reflect on the skills needed to do the work. What is Job Shadowing?💼 Job Shadowing Definition Job shadowing is a learning method that allows a learner to observe someone in their work routine or practices. In a short period, the learner can understand the tasks and responsibilities of that employee and the requirements to take on similar roles. Although most job shadowing opportunities and shadow programs are open to college or high school students, it’s also possible for adults to job shadow as well. Virtual job shadowing is a relatively new way of business shadowing. You will use online connections or join video conferences to observe employees throughout job shadow day. The benefit of virtual job shadowing is that you can reach offices thousands of miles away. It also costs less effort to organize and take part in. 💼 Benefits of Job Shadowing 1. Help you explore your interest and passion Job shadowing is a practical and helpful way to determine whether you’d be passionate about a job by showing you its reality. You can also ask questions to get a deeper understanding of the job to know whether the job interests you. 2. Help you decide your career path Joining a shadow program helps you decide whether the job is a career you'd like to pursue since you get chances to ask questions directly to employees and understand the job from their point of view. You can even get a couple of valuable resumes and interview tips. 3. Help develop network Job shadowing gives you a chance to develop a network in your interested career field. The professionals you meet are useful resources in the future. If you build good relationships with them, they might be willing to answer more questions, or even do an informational interview with you, after your job shadow program. How to Job ShadowChoose an industry you’re interested in.Research jobs and companies that interest you.Find the right person to contact.Draft a job shadowing request email.Prepare for job shadowing.Write a thank-you note. Here’s how you should prepare for job shadowing to get the most of it. ✨ Choose an industry you’re interested in. Consider the field you do a job shadow wisely. College students likely have an idea or two about their desired careers. High school students who haven’t given their careers much thought can start by brainstorming what piqued their interest and what skills they have and would like to have in the future. Tools like Career Aptitude Test can also help you to figure out which shadow program to join or possible industries for job shadowing. ✨ Research jobs and companies that interest you. It’s essential to get a basic idea about the job before you job shadow. Do some basic desk research about the company or the person you are job shadowing.Knowing the company’s culture and goals are just the basics of preparing for a successful career shadowing. Having a context of what the person is doing will make your business shadowing experience much more insightful. ✨ Find the right person to contact. There are several ways to connect with a professional to arrange a job shadow.For students, start by contacting teachers, school counselors, professors, or career centers about present shadow programs and companies that offer job shadowing. If there aren’t any, they might even be willing to share personal contact or set up connections for you. Another way is to contact the company’s human resources or public relations office. You can email the department to ask about potential job shadowing opportunities or call their company to understand which department can discuss this job shadowing chance with you. ✨ Draft a job shadowing request email. After you’ve reached out to the right people, it’s time to write a formal request email. To make a positive first impression, make sure your job shadow request email is clear, brief, and polite. Proofread your email before clicking the send button.To start your letter, greet the person politely. Concisely introduce yourself and explain your intention. Ask for a chance to job shadow, or if they can introduce you to anyone who might have job shadowing opportunities. End the letter by expressing your gratitude for their time.Your first letter doesn’t guarantee a work shadow opportunity. Therefore, move on to the next company until you find a professional willing to let you shadow them at work.We provide you with a job shadowing request email sample at the end of this article. ✨ Prepare for job shadowing. Once you find a professional that accepts your request, ask them about their expectations of you. For instance, when and how long you will be there, the precise location, and information about the person you will shadow.Before the scheduled job shadowing, take time to think of questions you’d like to ask that would help you gain first-hand experience about the job that you wish to pursue in the future.10 questions to ask when job shadowing:How would you describe your company’s culture?What makes this company unique and different?What is your company’s current and next goal?What is your favorite/least favorite part about working here?What are the most important skills for this role?What can I do now to prepare and get into this career?What are the essential characteristics of doing this job successfully?What motivates you to come to work?How did you get into this field?How did you advance to this job role title? Lastly, dress in formal attire, turn off phone notifications and use a notepad to stay focused and attentive during work shadow. ✨ Write a thank-you note. Remember to send a thank-you email to the professionals whom you shadow at work. Express your gratitude and let them know what you’ve learnd from this job shadowing experience. Stay connected with the person you shadow, if possible. Cherishing the invaluable network you develop is also crucial for a successful career. Tips for a Successful Job Shadowing Experience🎯 Be prepared. Being well prepared is fundamental if you want to get the most out of this job shadowing event. By thoroughly researching beforehand, you save precious time for the professional and yourself on the job shadow day.You can do so by browsing the company website’s “About” page, media coverage, and LinkedIn news. In addition, check out the profile of the professional you’ll be shadowing. You can get an idea of their career path and skills before your business shadowing. 🎯 Ask for an office tour. A workplace tour can give you a sense of how the company office is organized, how colleagues interact, the everyday atmosphere, or working hours. If you would like an office tour, reach out to your contact and ask if it is possible before the job shadow day. 🎯 Show initiative. Job shadowing is short compared to an internship or a part-time job. To enjoy your shadow program fully, you need to be proactive. For instance, you can ask to perform simple tasks or help with daily responsibilities to learn about the skills. 🎯 Be polite and greet everyone you meet. While you are career shadowing, be polite with other employees in the office. Greet them politely and introduce yourself briefly to leave a good impression. Let them know you’re here as a work shadow. 🎯 Take notes. Don’t forget to document things you’ve learned in the work shadowing or scribble down additional questions that pop up. So you can remember the valuable information and at the same time, show that you are a learner. Job Shadow Request Sample Letter Subject Line: Job Shadow Opportunity Inquiry - Leslie Lee from Bedford HighDear Ms. Kaur, I am Leslie Lee, a senior year student from Bedford High School, and I am trying to decide on my university major and exploring career possibilities. I am interested in pursuing nursing due to my passion for medical services and caring for others. I found your email via your colleague Sarah and decided to reach out. Your hospital shares a great reputation in the field, and I'd really like to observe how professional nurses in hospitals work. I believe the experience of job shadowing a nurse will be informational and inspring. Would you be open to letting me work shadowing a nurse for a few days to a week? If so, please let me know what time and day would be more convenient for you. I am available the entire of July. I look forward to hearing and learning from you, and thank you for your time! Sincerely,Leslie Lee With Cake’s resume builder tool, resume templates and resume examples, you could showcase your best qualifications to land your dream job. Try making a resume online (free download) now!Create CV--- Originally written by Wu Chao Min ---

Personal details are arguably one of the most important elements in the resume. The basic information about you gives the recruiter a quick overview of you as a candidate and provides the essential contact details should the recruiter wants to invite you to further discuss your application. The necessary personal information to be put in a resume includes your name, job title, contact details and so on. It would help to create a dedicated personal information section in your resume at the very top of your resume so the recruiter can easily spot it. But what personal information should be on a resume? And, equally importantly what personal information should be put in your resume?In this article, we'll provide answers to those questions and walk you through on how to write the most informative personal info in a resume.Table of Contents:Should I Put Personal Details in a Resume/CV?What to Write in Personal Details in a ResumeWhat Not to Include in Personal Info in a ResumeHow to Format Personal Detail on a ResumePersonal Information in a Resume SamplesShould I Put Personal Details in a Resume/CV? The short answer is yes. Personal details are necessary in a resume or CV. Theyprovide the recruiter with essential information about you. Including your personal information in the resume/CV gives the recruiter an easy access to your contact details and makes their job easier. It shows that you are a thoughtful person and can think from their perspective.Another benefit of putting your personal details in the resume/CV is that it helps the hiring company to great a talent pool. With identifying information available on the resume, the recruiter can easily organize and maintain their qualified candidate database. This would in turn increases your chances to be considered for other opening at the company in the future.In short, having personal information in your resume makes the recruiter's job easier and highlights your professionalism and ability to think from others' perspectives. The real question you should be asking iswhat to include in personal information in a resume/CV. What to Write in Personal Details in a Resume Personal details that are suitable for a resume or CV can sometimes be hard to determine. On one hand, you want to include personal information in your resume that will help you stand out; on the other hand, sometimes too much detail can backfire.Your resume personal details must include the primary information about who you are. This part is crucial in your resume and plays a significant role in the job application process.Here we've provided lists of essentials and optional personal details for your resume/CV. 5 Essential Personal Details to be Included in a Resume:Full nameYour name is arguably the most important personal information to be included in the resume. This is how the recruiter identify you and know whose resume they are reviewing. Without the name in the personal information section, the recruiter wouldn't know who to contact even if the resume is perfect.Professional titleA professional job title on your resume indicates who you are at a professional level and how experienced you are. The recruiter can quickly decide if your experience matches the position with this personal detail on your resume.Email addressYour email address is the most crucial contact detail you will present in your resume. It is the most common contact method and the easiest way for your potential employer to reach you.Phone numberYou must include your phone number in your resume's personal information section as well. Sometimes employers prefer to make phone calls. Make sure you list your phone number in the personal info section in your resume.LocationWhether or not to put your address in the resume is open for debate but including your location is always a good idea. Include the city, the zip code and the country would suffice. These are the essential items you must include in personal details in a resume. They help the recruiter to identify you and provide them with means to contact you, which is the basic function of personal information in a resume/CV. Besides the essential resume personal information, there are also five optional personal details that you can include in a resume to make your resume a stronger one. 5 Optional Personal Details to be Included in a Resume:LinkedIn URLA LinkedIn profile in the personal information section in the resume can help elaborate your experience. It also shows that you're a professional and spends time developing your personal brand.Personal websiteSome people make a personal website to display their work achievements or portfolio. Including the link to your website or portfolio in your personal info section on the resume strengthens your application as they provide visual evidence of your achievements.Social mediaBy listing your social media accounts in your resume's personal details section, you showcase your personal traits, which is crucial for certain roles. Make sure the socials you put in the resume as part of personal information are semi-professional and don't hurt your professional image.Complete addressInclude your full address in the personal information section in your resume if it's specifically required. If not, you can decide whether you want put it there.Relevant personal infoRelevant personal information for the job you are applying for can be included in your resume's personal details section to tailor your resume for the role. Find out what is the core ability they are looking for and write it as part of your personal details, for instance, the language or certificate that is specifically required in the job posting. These optional details act in support of your personal introduction on the resume. Pick the ones that will help you highlight your skills and qualifications to your potential future employer. But do not overdo it and write irrelevant personal information in your resume. Make sure the items you pick speak to your advantage in your resume.What Not to Include in Personal Info on a Resume Personal information in a resume is important but you should be careful with it too. It's a common mistake to include personal details that would do your application a disservice. Learning what not to write in personal details is therefore of great importance. Do not forget that at the end of day, the resume is a professional document. You need to take that into consideration when you write personal information for your resume/CV.Below is a list of personal details that don't belong in your resume:Current salaryYour employer does not need this information. There will be time for this negotiation at your interview, and leaving this in your resume's personal details section may be seen as unprofessional and lower your chances of getting a satisfactory salary.National Insurance Number/Social Security NumberYou will need to supply your National Insurance Number or Social Security to your employer after you are hired. But putting this in your resume personal details can expose yourself to identity fraud. Never divulge your National Insurance Number or Social Security Number. This piece of information is usually needed after you're hired. However, note that some government jobs may insist on providing it for vetting purposes.Sexual orientationWhile workplace diversity is taken more seriously by many organizations, disclosing this particular information about yourself in the resume can result in hiring discrimination. You are also likely to come across unprofessional.Race/ethnicityLikewise, specifying your race or ethnicity may open yourself to discrimination.Marital status and dependencyThis is another piece of information that may also result in discrimination by your potential employer. Whether you are married and/or with children should not be a factor to your employment criteria.PhotographDo not give a prospective employer any excuse to disregard your skills and expertise just because of your appearance. Only provide a photo of yourself in the resume as part of personal info when it is specified in the job posting or when you are applying to companies in country it is customary to do so.Date of birthThe age of the applicant should not reflect on their professional skill. Some employers may be partial to older or younger applicants.NationalityThe job advertisement may specify that you must be living in a particular state for work purposes, or have a right to work in a specific country. Still, your nationality is in most cases irrelevant.GenderIn most countries, it is illegal for an employer to ask your gender, even if they may infer it by your name.ReligionYour religion or religious beliefs are not relevant to your employment and thus don't belong in the personal info part of your resume. There are laws in many countries that stipulate that an employer is not allowed to discriminate against individuals based on their beliefs and religion. You should avoid these 10 personal details when you write your resume; however, the job search culture is different in different countries. Make sure you do proper research and include the required and necessary personal details in the resume/CV when you are apply for roles in particular countries.Cultural differences in job hunting Job seekers should note that cultural differences also exist when it comes to resume writing and job hunting. For example, most countries in the EU require applicants to send their CVs using the Europass format. This generic formatting, however, requires you to include gender, nationality, and date of birth on your resume's personal information section. In Asian countries, photos are encouraged to be included in resume personal details. Personal information such as marital status, ethnicity, gender, and date of birth are more common but not a requirement in Europe and Asia. How to Format Personal Details on a ResumeTo make sure the recruiter sees your personal information in the resume, you have to format it properly. Depending on what you want to emphasize in the personal detail section on your resume, you might want to arrange each piece of personal information in different ways. For instance, an experienced front-end developer might want to highlight their professional title “Sr. Front-End Developer” by capitalizing the first letter of every word and putting the title next to their name. A fresher graphic designer writing their resume might, on the other hand, make space for the link to their portfolio in the personal detail section. To write your personal details in a resume format, you must know the key information about how to write it. However, to write personal information in a resume that catches the eye, you need to consider your strengths and carefully format your personal details. Below is a list of factors that you should take into consideration while putting personal information in your resume. 1. Name Of all the personal details for your resume, your name is the most important one. It’s the key identifying information. With an eye to the overall design of your resume, write your first name and surname in bold and large size the top of your resume.💡 Pro tip:It is not recommended to put "Resume", "CV", or "Curriculum Vitae" on the top of your personal details. When you place your name on the top of the CV, it becomes the focus. This will help catch the recruiter's attention. 2. Professional Title Your professional title should reflect these two different things: what you do and the level of experience you have in that role. 3. Phone Number The next important personal detail that belongs in your resume is your phone number. Make sure it is your personal mobile number that you can pick up anytime the recruiters call. If you are applying for jobs internationally, do not forget to include your country's dialing code and highlight that your number can be reached on Whatsapp, or include a Skype ID. 4. Email Address It is essential to include an email address in your personal details in your resume as it is the preferred mode of communication. Writing your email address as part of personal information for your resume sounds simply enough but there are some mistakes you should avoid: Don’t use your current work email address.Don’t use email addresses that look unprofessional.Ideally, a good personal email address is one made up of your full name or your first name and one letter of your last name. If both options are not available, you can add one or two numbers in your email address. 5. LinkedIn and social media accounts LinkedIn accounts are generally safe to include in the personal information section of your resume, but it is a good idea to log in and check the information is up to date and matching your resume. If there are significant differences, your potential employer may lose confidence in your trustworthiness. Social media accounts such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Pinterest, depending on the role you are applying for, can be included in the personal information section on your resume. For instance, if you are looking for a job as a social media marketer, they should be included to showcase your expertise.💡 Pro tip:Make sure you do not have a series of posts that give the wrong impression about your values and personality, if you've decided to include social media accounts in resume. Remember to include your account as a link – see the examples at the end of this article as reference. Personal details in resumes for freshersAs a fresher, you may have little work experience. The personal information section for your resume can include your personal website or portfolio so that you can showcase your skills and experience.Personal details in resumes for experienced job seekersFor experienced workers, personal information in a resume may differ slightly from that of a fresher. As the space for personal information in the resume is limited, you can only pick one or two most impressive aspects of your career to write in it. For instance, you can write the number of years of experience you have along with your professional title. Personal Information in a Resume Samples Writing a resume or CV might be slightly hard for fresh graduates. Even experienced people sometimes find it hard to adjust their resume to suit the recruiter's needs. It is only natural if you want to check out some personal details in resume samples. Having good personal information in resume examples will help you to write a better resume, so here are a few personal details examples for various positions, from personal details in resume for freshers to the most experienced job seekers.Graphic DesignerCreated via CakeResumeMarketingCreated via CakeResumeCEOCreated via CakeResumeVideo EditorCreated via CakeResumeGeneral ManagerCreated via CakeResumeSoftware EngineerCreated via CakeResumeAdministrative AssistantCreated via CakeResumeFashion DesignerCreated via CakeResume Your process of looking for a job starts with creating a resume, and personal information is at the top of it. See how important it is? These are the basic necessities you need to include in your personal information in a resume. Space on your resume is precious. Pen your very own personal details and impress the recruiters.Wondering if your resume is working against you? Our AI-powered tool identifies weak spots and shows you exactly how to fix them.Fix Now--- Originally written by Jonathan ---