The Ultimate Resume Writing Guide: Craft a Job-Winning Document – 2024

Hey there, friends! Let’s talk about that dusty old resume of yours. You know, the one that’s been sitting in your Google Drive since… well, let’s not age ourselves here. Listen up, because I’m about to drop some truth bombs that’ll revolutionize your job hunt game!

Did you know that recruiters spend an average of 7.4 seconds looking at a resume? Yep, you read that right – 7.4 seconds! That’s less time than it takes to decide what to watch on Netflix. So, we’ve got to make those seconds count. Mindset is everything when creating a successful resume!

I have helped hundreds of students write resumes that fixed common resume format and resume summary issues. I can spot an awesome resume summary and an ideal resume length the second I look over a resume.

I am an expert resume reviewer who has been a seasoned recruiter at Fortune 500 Companies for 5+ years. I know how to help candidates beat applicant tracking systems, and the most common resume mistakes to avoid.

I have seen thousands of resumes, and know the exact resume writing guide that will help you land your dream job. From jaw-dropping resume templates to 50 powerful resume words to get you hired, I have the perfect guide for you! I can help you write the perfect length resume in no time! I also created a career change resume guide to really help all stages of life!

I can help you write a compelling resume that showcases your awesome technical skills while highlighting the soft skills needed to make a resume stand out. I will also teach out how to tailor your resume for different job applications, and how to explain employment gaps.

I would call myself a certified professional resume writer who is great at helping job seekers figure out their passion, tailor their resume file to stand out to most hiring managers, and find the right job title students are looking for to have a happy and fulfilling career.

I have recommendations for the best AI resume builders, and all the benefits of using the AI resume builders if you are lacking time. I also just wrote an article comparing the best resume writing tools here!

Resume Writing Guide Basics: Don’t Mess this up, okay?

Alright, let’s talk about resume basics. As a recruiter, I can tell you it’s super important to quickly show off your relevant experience, valuable skills, and an impressive academic career as quickly as possible.

A good resume template helps recruiters see the hard and soft skills that would make you a great candidate for a new job title.

Key Contact Information Section

First things first, your name. You’d think this would be a no-brainer, but I have seen many resumes with typos in first and last names. YIKES! Make it big, make it bold, and for the love of all that is holy, spell it right.

It should be the first thing anyone sees when they look at your resume, like that obnoxious neon sign outside your favorite dive bar. Make a resume stand out by having no typos.

Now, contact info. This is where you give potential employers all the ways they can reach you to offer you buckets of money.

Or, you know, an interview. Email, phone, LinkedIn – the works. I used to include my home address, but in this digital age, that’s about as necessary as a floppy disk.

Oh, and a word to the wise: maybe leave your TikTok handle off unless you’re applying to be a professional dance craze creator.

Show off your Work Experience

Next up, is the professional summary. This is your elevator pitch, your chance to sell yourself in about 30 seconds. I used to ramble on like I was writing my memoirs but trust me, no one wants to read your life story.

Write a resume that is short and sweet! Keep it snappy, keep it relevant, and if you can throw in a bit of personality without sounding like a complete goofball, even better.

Work experience – this is where the rubber meets the road. It’s the meat and potatoes of your resume (sorry, vegetarians, substitute with tofu if you must).

Your job resume template should list your jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent.

And please, for the love of all that is holy, don’t list every single task you’ve ever done. Focus on your achievements, the stuff that makes you stand out. Nobody cares that you “maintained a clean and orderly workspace” unless you’re applying to be a professional organizer.

Write a resume in a way that applies to the job description you are applying for. For example, I hire students looking to work in Accounting.

I would want to see a resume format that focuses on accounting involvement at school, along with relevant coursework and relevant skills needed to be successful in the job.

If you aren’t a student, make sure and highlight how many jobs you have held onto.

Education Expertise

Finally, education. Because someone needs to know about that degree you’re still paying off, right? List your highest level of education first. If you’re fresh out of school, this section might be beefier. If you are a student in school, you want to include relevant coursework, and make sure you have a chronological resume format.

A good resume will demonstrate you have a proven track record filled with academic achievements in your resume’s education section.

Your resume format can show off the great transferable skills that make you an awesome fit for the job openings with the hiring managers.

Also, for the love of all things good in this world, make sure you put your expected graduation date. Nothing drives a recruiter away faster than not knowing when you graduate!

You can keep it brief if you’ve been in the workforce for a while.

Now, here’s a pro tip I learned the hard way: tailor your resume for each job. As an expert recruiter, I love to see unique resumes that showcase a key skills required on the job description. Turns out, that one size does not fit all in the resume world.

Use keywords from the job description, highlight relevant experiences, and for Pete’s sake, make sure you’re applying for the right job.

Remember, your resume is your ticket to the interview. Your resume template is a chance to make a killer first impression without the awkwardness of actually meeting someone.

So take the time to get it right. Proofread it, have someone else proofread it, then proofread it again. Nothing says “I don’t pay attention to detail” like spelling errors in a document that’s supposed to showcase your skills.

There are great common resume builder tools that help beef up your resume. I wrote an article about my personal favorite tools here!

Formatting 101: Make It Pretty (But Not Too Pretty)

Alright, let’s dive into the art of making your resume look not just good, but chef’s kiss perfect. And trust me, it’s an art. I’ve been there, staring at my screen at 2 AM, tweaking fonts and moving bullet points around like it’s a life-or-death situation.

But after years of trial and error (and a few embarrassing Comic Sans incidents), I’ve got some tips to share that’ll help you avoid those rookie mistakes and create a professional resume that’ll make recruiters do a double-take.

Fonts: The Secret Resume Killer

First off, let’s talk fonts. I can’t stress this enough: Comic Sans is not your friend here. I know, it’s playful and fun, but your resume is not the place to show off your quirky side.

You want a clean, readable font that says, “I’m serious about this job, and I’ve got my act together.” Think Arial, Calibri, or even Georgia if you’re feeling fancy.

These fonts are easy on the eyes and won’t distract from the content – which is what really matters. After all, your resume summary is what’s going to grab attention, not some funky font that screams, “I didn’t know better.”

A resume template should be clean and indicate your desired job, without the mess of a confusing font and formatting.

As a professional recruiter, the more simple resume outlines I see, the more excited I am!

Format like a Pro

Now, onto consistent formatting. This is like your dedication to your skincare routine: it needs to be steady, reliable, and something you don’t skimp on. Every section of your resume should have the same look and feel.

That means your headings, bullet points, and spacing should all be uniform. It might sound nitpicky, but nothing screams “unprofessional” like a resume that looks like it was thrown together in five minutes.

Consistency shows you pay attention to detail – and trust me, that’s a trait every employer is looking for.

Speaking of spacing, let me introduce you to your new BFF: white space. I get it, you want to pack as much information as possible into your resume, but let it breathe, girl! Too much text crammed onto one page is overwhelming.

White space gives your resume a clean, organized look, and makes it easier for recruiters to scan through your information.

Think of it like giving your content room to shine. So, don’t be afraid to leave some space between sections, or to widen those margins just a bit.

Your resume format should feel inviting, not intimidating.

And while we’re on the subject of making things easier to read, let’s talk about bullet points. These are your secret weapon.

Long paragraphs are for novels, not resumes. Bullet points are short, sweet, and to the point – exactly what a professional resume needs.

They allow you to highlight your achievements without drowning your reader in a sea of text.

Each point should be a concise, powerful statement that tells the employer exactly what you’ve done and why you’re the best fit for the job. No fluff, just facts.

Highlight your career history and academic qualifications in neat resume sections throughout your resume. Most job seekers will love that you highlighted your relevant qualifications in a professional layout.

Word vs. PDF Documents

Finally, let’s wrap it up with one last tip: Save it as a PDF. This is non-negotiable.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen resumes get completely messed up because they were sent as Word documents. The hiring manager’s attention will go elsewhere, and no one will ever see the perfect resume you spent hours formatting!

Formatting goes haywire, fonts change, and before you know it, your perfectly polished resume looks like a hot mess.

The best resume format is a PDF that locks everything in place, ensuring that your resume template looks exactly the way you intended, no matter who opens it or on what device.

Plus, it just looks more professional. And that’s what we’re aiming for here, right?

So there you have it – the essentials of formatting a resume that’s not just pretty, but perfectly pretty. Stick to these tips, and you’ll write a resume that’s not only easy on the eyes but also impossible to ignore.

The Secret Sauce: Keywords That Make Recruiters Swoon

Alright, let’s talk about the secret sauce that’s going to make your resume irresistible to recruiters. And no, it’s not a fancy font or a cute template (though that helps).

We’re talking about keywords – the magic words that make hiring managers sit up and say, “Yes, this is the one!” But here’s the deal: it’s not just about throwing in random buzzwords. You’ve got to be strategic, like sprinkling confetti at just the right moment.

Resume Buzz Words

First things first: industry-specific keywords. These are the words that show you know your stuff. Every industry has its language, and if you’re not speaking it, you’re not getting through the door.

For example, if you’re in marketing, terms like “SEO,” “content strategy,” and “campaign management” should be peppered throughout your resume. These are the keywords that tell a hiring manager, “Hey, this person knows the ropes.”

And don’t just slap them into your resume summary like you’re checking off a list. Weave them into your experience and achievements in a way that feels natural – like you’ve been living and breathing this stuff for years (which, hopefully, you have).

Resume builder tools can help you figure out the best keywords for your industry if you don’t want to do the research.

Now, let’s get into the power of action verbs. I’m talking about words that pack a punch – verbs that make you sound like the go-getter you are.

“Led,” “created,” “innovated” – these words show you’re not just sitting around waiting for things to happen; you’re making things happen.

On the flip side, avoid phrases like “responsible for.” I mean, come on – that’s like saying you showed up, and that’s about it.

Hiring managers want to know what you actually did, not just what you were supposed to do. So, ditch the passive language and go for something that shows you’re the kind of person who takes charge and delivers results.

Numbers Matter

Speaking of results, here’s a little tip that’ll make recruiters swoon: quantify your achievements.

Numbers are like catnip for hiring managers – they love seeing concrete evidence of what you’ve accomplished. Don’t just write a resume that says you “improved sales.”

Write a resume that says “boosted sales by 30% in Q2.” That’s the kind of detail that grabs attention and gets you noticed. And it doesn’t just apply to sales.

Whatever your role, there’s always something you can quantify. Did you manage a team? How many people? Did you launch a project? What was the impact? Numbers give your achievements weight, making your resume stand out in a sea of vague claims.

Showcase Special Skills or Interests

Here’s the tea. At the end of the day, recruiters and hiring managers are just people. We are looking for candidates who will fit in with company culture, and work hard. From my professional experience, I would say recruiters enjoy seeing a special skills section on resumes.

For example, do you speak two languages? Include that! Are you a marathon runner who also plays the Violin? Make sure you list that on your resume.

Companies are looking for employees who will build connections at work and want to grow his or her careers at the company.

Just having a perfect GPA, and great student involvement is not enough anymore. We need to see connection and passion on a resume to help candidates stand out in the interview process.

Don’t Forget to Tailor your Resume

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Do I have to tailor my resume for every single job?” And the answer is, unfortunately, yes. I get it – it’s a pain. But so is getting ghosted by employers after spending hours applying for jobs.

Here’s the thing: every job description is like a blueprint. It tells you exactly what the hiring manager is looking for. Your job is to take that blueprint and match your resume to it as closely as possible.

That means tweaking your resume summary, highlighting different skills, and yes, even swapping out some keywords to fit what they’re asking for. It’s a bit of extra work, but trust me, it’s worth it.

The more tailored your resume, the more likely it is to get past those pesky applicant tracking systems (ATS) and into the hands of someone who actually makes hiring decisions.

So, there you have it – the secret sauce to making your resume absolutely irresistible. Write a resume that can sprinkle in those industry-specific keywords, power up your language with action verbs, throw in some numbers to back up your claims, and take the time to tailor your resume for each job.

Do this, and you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream job. And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be the one on the other side of the table, reading resumes and thinking, “This person really gets it.”

The “Don’t You Dare” List

Alright, friends, let’s get real for a minute. There are some things you just don’t do when you’re writing a resume. I like to call this the “Don’t You Dare” list.

Seriously, if you want to impress hiring managers and land that dream job, these are the things you need to avoid like the plague. Trust me on this – I’ve seen some wild stuff in my time, and these mistakes are resume killers.

The Truth Will Set You Free

First up on the list is lying. Listen, I get it. The temptation to stretch the truth is strong, especially when you’re trying to stand out in a sea of job seekers. But fibbing is for fish, not resumes.

Don’t even think about adding a job title you never held or inflating your responsibilities.

It might seem harmless, but it’s a ticking time bomb. Eventually, the truth will come out – whether it’s during the interview, when your references are checked, or even after you’ve been hired.

And let me tell you, getting caught in a lie is the fastest way to lose a job (or never get one in the first place).

So, keep it honest, folks. Your relevant skills are valuable enough as it is – no need to fake it.

Proof Read, Proof Read, Proof Read

Next, let’s talk about typos. This is a biggie. There’s nothing that screams “I didn’t proofread this” like a resume riddled with errors.

Seriously, job seekers, proofread like your career depends on it – because it kinda does. I know, we’re all human, and typos happen. But when you’re applying for a job, you need to write a resume that is as close to perfect as possible.

Don’t rely on spellcheck alone; read it over a few times, and then get someone else to read it too. A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed.

And let’s be real – nothing turns off a hiring manager faster than a resume full of errors. It makes you look careless, and that’s not the vibe you want to give off.

Save the Photos for TikTok

Another no-no: Including a photo. Unless you’re applying to be a model (or you’re in a country where it’s standard practice), keep your selfies on Instagram.

Including a photo on your resume in most industries is not only unnecessary, but it can also lead to unconscious bias.

Plus, it takes up valuable space that could be used for more important things – like highlighting your skills and experience.

Stick to the basics with a clean, professional resume template that lets your accomplishments do the talking.

Your LinkedIn profile is where you can show off that headshot, not your resume.

Keep it Original

Let’s also banish the clichés. Phrases like “team player” and “hard worker” are so 2010, and they don’t say anything about what makes you unique.

Instead of using these tired buzzwords, focus on specific achievements and how you’ve contributed to your previous roles.

For example, instead of saying you’re a “team player,” talk about how you collaborated on a project that improved company processes or increased sales. Show, don’t tell.

Hiring managers have seen it all, and generic terms won’t make you stand out. Be specific, be real, and be memorable.

One Page Resumes for the Win

There is a lot of debate on whether resumes should be one page or two pages. My professional take? I appreciate a good one page resume. Going over two pages is a major don’t. Your resume isn’t “War and Peace” – it’s a snapshot of your career, not your life story.

A concise, focused resume is much more likely to catch a hiring manager’s eye than a long-winded one. If you’re struggling to cut it down, think about what’s really relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Tailor your resume to the role, and let go of anything that doesn’t add value. Remember, less is more when it comes to resume writing.

So there you have it – the “Don’t You Dare” list. Keep it honest, proofread until your eyes cross, skip the selfie, ditch the clichés, and keep it concise. Follow these rules, and you’ll be well on your way to writing a resume that’s not just good, but great.

The Cherry on Top: Cover Letters and References

Alright, let’s talk about the cherry on top of your job application: cover letters and references. These are the little extras that can take your resume from good to “heck yes!” in the eyes of a hiring manager.

Think of them as the sprinkles on your cupcake – not always necessary, but when done right, they make everything so much sweeter.

Cover Letter Advice

First up, cover letters. I know I know – writing a cover letter can feel like a chore. But here’s the thing: it’s your chance to show some personality and let the hiring manager get a sense of who you are beyond the bullet points on your resume.

This is where you can share a bit of your story, explain why you’re passionate about the job, and connect the dots between your experience and what the company is looking for. But – and this is important – don’t go overboard.

A cover letter is not the place for emojis, exclamation points, or trying to be too cutesy. Keep it professional, but let your natural voice shine through.

Imagine you’re having a friendly, yet professional, conversation with someone you admire. That’s the tone you’re going for.

Resume builder tools can also help you quickly whip up a great resume if it’s career fair season and you desperately need a cover letter right now.

One of the best tips I can give you for crafting a great cover letter is to reference specific parts of the job description and link them to your skills or experiences.

For example, if the job posting mentions they need someone adept at project management, you can talk about a time when you successfully led a project from start to finish.

It’s all about showing how your resume format and resume summary translate into real-world value. Remember, the goal is to make the hiring manager think, “Wow, this person gets it – they’re exactly what we need.”

Your Network with Your Net Worth

Now, let’s move on to references. Here’s the deal: you don’t need to include them on your resume. In fact, most employers won’t even ask for references until you’re further along in the hiring process.

So, don’t waste precious space on your resume with a “References available upon request” line – it’s outdated and unnecessary.

Instead, keep your references in your back pocket, ready to wow when asked. Make sure you have a solid list of people who can vouch for your skills, work ethic, and overall awesomeness.

These should be people who know you well in a professional capacity, like former bosses, colleagues, or even clients if you’re in a client-facing role.

Every job I have landed throughout my career was through my network. I went to Texas A&M University, and have used my connections at A&M to grow and foster my career since I left school.

And when the time comes to hand over your references, do it with care. Give your references a heads-up that they might be contacted, and provide them with some context about the job you’re applying for.

This way, they can tailor their feedback to highlight the qualities that are most relevant to the role.

It’s all about making sure your references can back up the story you’ve told in your resume summary and cover letter.

So there you have it – the cherry on top of your job application. A well-crafted cover letter that shows off your personality and references that are ready to sing your praises when the time comes.

These might seem like small details, but trust me, they can make a big difference in how your application is received.

So take the time to get them right, and you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream job. You’ve got this!

Final Thoughts: Write the Dang Resume

Alright, let’s get real for a minute – it’s time to write the dang resume. You’ve spent time learning the ins and outs, from crafting that killer resume summary to nailing the perfect resume format. Now, it’s time to put it all into action.

The time you invest in your resume isn’t just about getting a job; it’s about setting the stage for your future. Trust me, every second you spend perfecting it will pay off in the long run.

Whether you’re gunning for your dream job or just ready to take that next step, it all starts with a solid resume.

Don’t let the process intimidate you. You’ve got everything you need right here – the tips, the tricks, and the insider knowledge to stand out in a crowded job market. And hey, remember, you’re not in this alone.

As a career coach with years of experience as a corporate recruiter, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t, and I’m here to ensure your resume falls squarely in the “works” category.

So, here’s the deal – don’t overthink it, just start. Write the resume, fine-tune it, and make sure it reflects the incredible talent you have. And when you’re ready, hit submit with confidence.

You’ve got this, and I can’t wait to see where your journey takes you.

Now, seriously, what are you waiting for? The world is out there waiting for what you’ve got to offer. So go on, write that resume, and show them exactly what you’re made of!

Do you need extra help with your resume? I am a professional career coach, and am happy to help! Send me an email at haley@haleyskinner.com.

Common Questions and Answers

What is the most important part of a resume?

Answer: The most important part of a resume is the resume summary. This section is your chance to make a strong first impression by summarizing your qualifications, skills, and career achievements in a few impactful sentences.

How do I tailor my resume for each job application?

Answer: To tailor your resume for each job, carefully read the job description and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Then, adjust your resume summary and bullet points to highlight your experience and skills that align with those requirements.

Should I include a cover letter with my resume?

Answer: If the job application requests a cover letter, definitely include one. A cover letter allows you to add a personal touch, explain why you’re passionate about the role, and highlight how your skills and experiences align with the company’s needs.

What role do keywords play in a resume?

Answer: Keywords are crucial because they help your resume get noticed by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring managers. By including industry-specific keywords and action verbs that match the job description, you increase the likelihood of your resume being flagged as a good fit. Keywords help demonstrate that you have the skills and experience the employer is seeking.

Can I use the same resume for different job applications?

Answer: It’s generally best to customize your resume for each job application. While you can use a base resume, tailoring it to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to each specific role will improve your chances of getting noticed.

What should I do if I’m struggling to write my resume?

Answer: Contact me! I am happy to help you write an awesome resume through my career coaching services. Email me at haley@haleyskinner.com.