resume sample with work experience

How to Describe Work Experience on a Resume in 2022 (Examples & Tips)

Your work experience is a summary of all your hard work, dedication and achievements over the years. Here's how to do justice to your work history.

The work experience section of a resume will be the crown jewel that demonstrates to potential employers that you have the work history to back up your credentials.

In this guide, we will provide you with in-depth coverage for how to craft the perfect work experience section to help you land more interviews and job offers. 

Here's an outline of what we'll learn:

Including Work Experience on a Resume

What to exclude from your work history, formatting your work experience section, how to list achievements and accomplishments, add more experience with relevant certifications, use strong action verbs, how to show job promotions, addressing career gaps in your work experience, how to show volunteer work and internship experience.

• How Far Back Should Your Work History Go?

Key Takeaways

For all the inside scope on each component of your resume, check out our comprehensive resume guides . 

Work experience is a major component of any successful resume.

However, it can be difficult to decipher what exactly you should be including in your work history. 

Each job applicant will have a differing amount of working experience under their belt.

The key is to not shove too much information into this section.

Instead, you will need to take the time to sit down and decide which information best highlights your strengths and gives you an advantage for a particular job opportunity.

It is important to keep in mind that you should be altering your resume to match the job description of each individual job you are applying to. 

By taking the time to re-edit your work experience section for specific applications, you will have a much greater chance of impressing hiring managers. 

In this article, we will help you craft the perfect work experience section.

Some key questions we will be answering include:

• What should you be including in your work history?
• What should you be excluding from your work history?
• How should your work experience section be formatted?

Keep reading to learn more about how you can begin optimizing your work history section.

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

What Information to Include in Your Work History?

Ultimately, your work history will contain the following:

• Job Position ( e.g. "Bartender" )
• Company ( e.g. "Red Lobster" )
• Location (e.g. "Brooklyn, NY")
• Start Date - Month & Year (e.g. "October 2019")
• End Date - Month & Year (e.g. "January 2021") Note : You can list "Present" if it's your current job
• Description (responsibilities and achievements)

Here's how that looks, you can also see an example of the Yoga Instructor resume here .

Yoga Instructor, January 2018 – Present Mellow Mushroom • Nashville, TN • Taught 40+ elderly clients basic yoga moves each day • Held 4 classes a day that differ in intensity, including beginner and intermediate • Advised modifications for yoga poses to ensure proper form, to meet clients' athletic abilities • Instructed clients on breathing techniques, such as Basic Breath Awareness and Retention • Developed body-mind-spirit awareness, mental clarity and physical flexibility and strength

However, when deciding which information to include within your work experience section, there are four main principles to keep in mind:

Here is a quick breakdown of each of these crucial factors:

1) Relevancy

When writing out your work experiences, it is important to consider how relevant your previous experience is to the job you are currently applying for

Your most relevant experience should always be the most emphasized and focused on, as it will be where you showcase the skills and achievements that qualify you for the position.

For instance, let’s say you are applying for an entry-level copywriting position and you have two major examples of work experience you would like to include.

These examples are:

• Managed the front of house of a restaurant for four years.
• Worked as a journalist at a local newspaper for one year.

Even though the management position may take up a greater chunk of your professional background, your experience as a journalist is much more relevant to the field of copywriting.

Therefore, you would want to place greater emphasis on your more relevant experience. 

2) Timeliness

Let’s say you are applying for a position for which all or most of your work experience is fairly relevant with similar importance in your roles.

How do you decide which of this experience is best to include on your resume?

When listing out your relevant work experience, it is recommended to showcase your most recent experience first and work backwards from there. 

As a general rule of thumb, it is good to aim to include work experience that you have gained within the past 5 years, though trying to include examples from within the last 1 to 5 years is ideal. 

Generally, work experience older than 5 years should be included on more in-depth resumes, such as on a resume for a job applicant seeking a senior position at a company.

Additionally, the academic resume format “Curriculum Vitae” – or CV – will typically include experience that spans across an even wider timeframe. 

3) Longevity

If you have held a relevant position for a long period of time, this kind of longevity can be highly impressive to hiring managers.

Showcasing your longevity at a previous job demonstrates your ability to commit to a company long-term. 

Moreover, showcasing positions you have held for a long period of time can also be a great opportunity to emphasize any promotions you may have received.

Showing your ability to not only commit, but to grow as well can be majorly influential on the impression your resume leaves.

4) Position

Different positions you have held within a field or industry may hold greater weight than others.

While it is still important to keep relevance, timeliness, and longevity in mind, it can also be useful to showcase your higher positions on your resume.

For example, let’s say you are applying for a position as an executive administrative assistant and you have the following work experience:

• Office manager for small law firm 
• Administrative assistant for a tattoo parlor

While both positions are relevant to the job you are applying for, your role as an office manager may have had greater responsibilities compared to your assistant position. 

Check out our Human Resources Resume Example to see how the work experience section utilizes all four of the above mentioned factors. 

When you are writing your work experience section, it is important to note that you don’t want to include every job under the sun that you have ever held.

A hiring manager won’t want to read through all of that, nor are all of your experiences likely to be relevant for the job you are applying to. 

For instance, short-term jobs that you left soon after being hired may not be the best to include, as this can lead to speculation and uncertainty as to why you held the position for so short an amount of time.

If you happened to work a job that was purposefully or contractually short-term but holds a high level of relevance to the job you are currently applying for, it can be useful to include a short note explaining why you were only in the position for a limited amount of time. 

Omitting Jobs from Your Resume

There may be a variety of circumstances that may lead you to wanting to omit certain jobs from your resume.

For instance, if you were fired from your previous position, you may feel inclined to try and hide this information out of fear of it leaving a bad impression on hiring managers.

However, even jobs you were fired from should be included if they are relevant working experience

Being fired from a previous job is not an automatic deal breaker in most cases, and including that position on your resume is oftentimes preferred over leaving unexplained gaps in your employment history.

Moreover, you do not have to explicitly state on your resume that you were fired.

Should this be a topic of concern, it will likely come up in a job interview at which point you can more clearly and directly explain what happened.

Keep Your Job Descriptions Simple

A common mistake that many job applicants will make is writing descriptions of previous jobs that are too wordy or long.

Although it can be helpful to include more information about your most relevant or most recent experiences, you still want to write in clear and concise sentences that are easy to skim.

In truth, it is unlikely a hiring manager will thoroughly read your resume – especially if there are many applicants for the position.

As such, you must optimize your resume to provide information clearly and quickly.

A hiring manager should be able to gain the most valuable information with only a short read-through or skimming. 

As mentioned, you don’t want to go overboard when writing your work experience section.

Although you should aim to include the best and most relevant details, you should strive to write in short and simple sentences. 

Here is the basic format to use when structuring your work experience section:

Position, Start Date – End Date Company Name, Location ‍ • Descriptive Sentence • Descriptive Sentence • Descriptive Sentence

Alternatively, you may also want to list the company name on the first line with the position title.

This can be especially true if you worked for a well-known and easily recognized company or brand.

The formatting would then look more like this:

Position, Company Name Location, Start Date – End Date ‍ • Descriptive Sentence • Descriptive Sentence • Descriptive Sentence

There are, of course, some stylistic choices you can make to help your resume stand out.

However, sticking to this straightforward and easy to read format is key. 

Here are a couple quick examples of correct and incorrect formatting:

1) Always use bullet points for your descriptions.

Long paragraphs can be hard to read and make your work experience section look too cluttered.

Restaurant Manager, 2018 – 2020 ‍ In this position as a restaurant manager, I worked diligently to help implement new point of sales systems that greatly reduced operational costs. I also managed a staff of over 20 waiters on any given day. Of my responsibilities, I was in charge of handling customer complaints and issuing refunds. 

Restaurant Manager, 2018 – 2020 Mellow Mushroom • Nashville, TN • Hired and trained over 20 staff members . • Implemented point of sales systems that reduced operational costs by 15 percent . • Reduced customer complaints and refunds by 25 percent . 

2) Be specific as possible.

When writing your work experience descriptions, try to be as specific as possible rather than providing vague descriptions of your work accomplishments in the position. 

Junior Graphic Designer, The Coca-Cola Company Atlanta, GA • June 2017 – July 2020 • Responsible for making creative designs for the company. • Created hundreds of different designs for a variety of projects. • Worked closely with top-corporate officials. 

Junior Graphic Designer, The Coca-Cola Company Atlanta, GA • June 2017 – July 2020   • Led the design, development, and implementation of a label design project. • Designed and implemented new branding materials, including a re-design of the logo.  • Presented key deliverables to executive level stakeholders. 

In the following Content Marketing Associate resume example, you can see how Sarah has emphasized each of her bullet points with specific relevant keywords.

When it comes to listing your achievements and accomplishments on a resume , there are several considerations to keep in mind

As a general rule of thumb, your job descriptions are the best place to showcase your greatest accomplishments within a position.

For example, let’s say you worked in a sales position and raised overall sales by 10 percent .

This is the kind of specific accomplishment you will want to list within your job description. 

As previously mentioned, you will always want to be as specific as possible when listing out your achievements.

Here are some examples of how to properly list your accomplishments within your work experience section:

If you have specific data to quantify an accomplishment, always provide specific numbers rather than generalized statements.

Incorrect: ‍

Increased productivity of staff immensely over the course of the position.

Improved staff productivity rates by 30 percent , leading to a reduction of labor costs by 45 percent . 

Awards are a type of achievement that can be particularly useful to include.

Keep in mind that a hiring manager may not be familiar with company-specific awards.

Thus, you should provide enough detail to explain the importance of the award. 

Earned the Departmental MVP Award in 2019.

Earned the 2019 Departmental MVP Award for increasing productivity and efficiency rates, as well as improving cross-functionality of the department. 

Depending on the quantity of achievements you have, it may also be beneficial to create a section devoted entirely to your professional accomplishments.

The key takeaway here, however, is that job descriptions are one the most useful places to showcase your job-specific achievements. 

Although certifications may not be direct work experience, they often times are major indicators to employers of how qualified the candidate is for a position.

To earn a certification, you will typically be required to complete an accredited course successfully.

It can be tempting to include every certification you have ever earned on your resume as a way to help add some extra detail and interest.

However, when you are including certifications you should still be keeping relevancy as your top priority.

As such, only the most relevant certifications should be showcased. For instance, let’s say you have a CPR and First Aid certification.

If you are applying to become a school nurse, these kinds of certifications are not only important but are likely required.

Comparatively, if you are applying to a position as a content writer, these certifications hold no relevance. 

If you have earned a certification as a result of working a previous job, then you would likely want to include that certification in that specific job description.

Otherwise, your certifications may be better suited in their own devoted section.

Additionally, working to earn relevant certifications that you can list in tandem with your work experience section can help you to greatly stand out from other job applicants.

Here is a quick list of a few well-known certifications that would be useful to include on a resume:

• PMP: PMP is a Project Manager certification and is given to professionals with a four-year degree, a minimum of three years of project management experience, and the successful completion of the PMP exam and hour requirements. 
• NCLEX-RN: The NCLEX certification is the required certification for nursing professionals put forth by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. 
• PHR: The PHR certification stands for Professional in Human Resources and is earned through successful completion of an exam upon confirmation of eligibility. 
• SERVSAFE: ServSafe certifications are used in the restaurant industry to certify that kitchen and waitstaff are following all proper food and drink protocols. 

For more information on how to best show certifications, check out our guide on listing certifications on a resume.

When you are writing your resume, you want the words you use to engage the person who is reading it.

Chances are that the hiring manager reading your resume will read hundreds of other resumes that all contain similar words, verbs, and phrases. 

When choosing which words to use in your resume, it is important to remember that you don’t want to tell the employer why you are a great candidate.

Instead, you want to use the words to show the employer why you are the best candidate. 

This is where strong action verbs come in.

In your job descriptions, rather than saying something boring like “ managed a staff of 50+ members ” —  instead use a stronger action verb such as “ delegated ” or “ directed .”

Here are a couple quick tips for using strong action verbs on your resume:

1) Always lead with your action verb

Don’t bury your action verbs or make them difficult to spot.

Start your sentences with a powerful action verb instead.

I helped senior executives with important administrative tasks.

Assisted senior executives with administrative tasks, including managing travel schedules and optimizing file organization systems. 

2) Make it contextual and supporting

While it is important to use action verbs, don’t just use any word that comes to mind.

The words you use should make sense in the context of how they are being used to describe a job. 

Prohibited operational costs from exceeding budgetary restrictions.

Maintained low operational costs according to budgetary restrictions. 

Though both of these statements essentially say the same thing, the latter is much more clear and better represents your professional achievement. 

For more ideas on which action verbs to include on your resume, check out our list of 350+ Action Verbs to Make Your Resume More Effective.  

If you have worked in a previous job for a longer period of time, chances are you have received a promotion or two along the way.

Keeping track of these promotions and showing your professionals growth is essential. 

There are a couple different ways to show promotions within a job description.

When showcasing different roles you have held within the same job or company, it is important to list your highest position first and work backwards from there.

As an example, let’s look at two different ways a job candidate could list their promotion from office assistant to office manager on a resume:

1) Stacking job promotions

Use stacked positions to show your growth over time, with the most recent and highest position at the top.

Office Assistant, Tennessee Valley Authority Nashville, TN • January 2015 – January 2016 ‍ • Promoted to current position of Office Manager in 2016.

Office Manager, Tennessee Valley Authority • January 2016 – November 2020 Office Assistant , Tennessee Valley Authority • January 2015 – 2016

This kind of stacked formatting is an easy way to show you growth within a company without having to detail each position.

This is a good format option for when you want to focus solely on the highest position you earned.

2) Listing job promotions as separate entries

This format is useful if you served in each position for several years with different responsibilities in each. 

Office Assistant and Manager, Tennessee Valley Authority January 2015 – November 2020

Office Manager, Tennessee Valley Authority January 2016 – November 2020 • Job Description & Achievements Office Assistant, Tennessee Valley Authority January 2015 – January 2016 • Job Description & Achievements

The choice to format promotions as two separate entries should be reserved for instances where most or all of your work experience has been in different positions within the same company

Otherwise, the stacked format allows you to feature other work experiences with different employers as well. 

In some cases, a job applicant may not have very much relevant work experience or they may have large career gaps.

If this is the case for you, it can be useful to consider utilizing different resume formats to help fill in those gaps. 

The worst thing you can do is try to hide these career gaps from hiring managers.

These are the types of details they will be looking out for, and signs of deception are likely to get your resume thrown out immediately.

Instead, you should consider the different resume formats that may be better suited to showcasing your skills rather than your experience.

Here are the three main types of resume formats and how we'd rate them from best to worst for addressing career gaps:

1) Functional (best)

Functional formatted resumes focus more on skills and unpaid experiences, making them well suited for applicants without a strong work history.

2) Hybrid/Combination (good)

Hybrid resumes will combine elements of both reverse-chronological and functional resumes, making them good to use when you have career gaps. 

3) Reverse-Chronological (worst)

‍ This format focuses on making the work experience section the main component of the resume so it won't be the best choice for you.

Though having limited work experience or large career gaps can certainly make the resume writing process more difficult, it is by no means impossible to create an effective resume in spite of this.

Check out our guide for writing a resume with no work experience for more advice on how to create a resume when you have limited experience or career gaps.

For some applicants, especially those who may still be in school or are recent graduates, you may lack paid working experience but have several good examples of volunteer work and internships. 

Generally speaking, your internship experiences can go in your work experience section, as these are still technically professional experiences you applied for and earned based on your academic credentials.

Volunteer work, comparatively, should often be listed in a separate section as this is not typically considered “professional experience.”

Nonetheless, volunteer work can still hold a good amount of value, especially if it is directed related to the job you are applying for.

For instance, an IT professional may have volunteered their time to work on a not-for-profit software development project.

Though this experience was unpaid, it provided the applicant with experience working directly with software developers.

This kind of experience will still be crucial to share with potential employers. 

Consider an Alternative Format

If your work experience is limited to internships and volunteer work, this may be another good opportunity to utilize the functional or hybrid resume formats.

This will allow you to showcase the unpaid experience you have, while also sharing the focus with other sections such as skills and academic accomplishments. 

How Far Back Should Your Work History Go?

We’ve covered the importance of timeliness and longevity when deciding which previous jobs to include in your work experience section.

The reality of how far back you should go ultimately depends on the position you are applying for.

For applicants who are applying to entry-level or lower-level jobs, keeping your work experience section concise and focusing on jobs you have worked in the past 1 to 5 years is likely to be preferable. 

Comparatively, if you are applying for a senior-level position, or for a position in the fields of science or academia, it is recommended to showcase more of your professional background.

For instance, applicants who are seeking positions in academic fields will likely want to use a CV format which typically will cover most – if not all – of both their professional and academic background. 

Not every job is the same, nor is every applicant the same, so how much you include on your resume will depend on the situation at hand.

Luckily, there are many resources to help, such as our guide on on writing the perfect resume.

By now you should feel a much greater sense of confidence for how you should be writing and formatting your work experience on your resume.

Here are five key takeaways to remember as you embark on your resume writing journey:

1. Relevancy is Key

When listing out your work experiences, keep in mind which of your previous jobs are the most relevant to the position you are now applying for.

You don’t want to weigh down your resume with too many jobs and job descriptions, so narrowing down to the 3 – 5 most relevant experiences is key. 

Do keep in mind the other three factors we discussed as well: timeliness , longevity , and position .

You want to showcase how your prior work experiences have given you the skillsets to make you highly qualified for the job you are seeking. 

2. Show, Don’t Tell

When writing your job descriptions, avoid using statements such as “I did this” or “I accomplished this.”

Instead, word your descriptions in a way that showcase your achievements and strengths within the position.

Employers don’t want to be told what you can do because words only mean so much without the evidence to back them up.

‍ Show hiring managers what you are capable of by providing clear and quantifiable examples of how you have excelled in your previous positions. 

3. Use Strong Action Verbs

Begin each of your bullet points in your job descriptions with strong action verbs that clearly represent the action or accomplishment you are showcasing.

The use of these verbs not only helps to clarify your work experience section, but also helps emphasize key points, tasks and achievements.

However, be wary of using these verbs just for the sake of using them.

Always make sure the verbs you are choosing relate back to the statement you are making so you don't not accidentally cause any confusion.

4. Keep it Simple 

Bullet points and simple sentences are your friend. Most hiring managers are not going to read through your resume in its entirety.

Thus, having bite size and concise descriptions that effectively represent your abilities, skills, and accomplishments is key. 

5. Determine Which Format is Best for You

If your work experience is limited, you may want to consider using an alternative resume format.

To help determine which format best suits your needs, take a look at our guide for choosing the correct resume format . 

Closing Thoughts

Your relevant work experience can make or break your opportunity for landing an interview with the job of your dreams.

Figuring out the best and most concise way to list your experience is, thus, crucial. 

To learn more about how to craft the best resume possible, check out our comprehensive guides and resume templates to get started making your perfect resume today. 

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Previous Work Experience Examples for a Resume

By Biron Clark

Published: February 12, 2024

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

If you’re looking for previous work experience examples for a resume or job application, and the exact steps to write your own experience section, you’re in the right place.

I’m going to walk you through:

• Why employers care about your work history and what they want to see most
• How to write your resume employment history including every piece of info to include and what format to put it in
• 3 previous work experience examples from real resumes written by  professional resume writers
• The  biggest mistakes to avoid when writing professional experience on a resume

Why Employers Care About Work Experience on Your Resume

Here’s what I’ve discovered after years of working as a recruiter…

If you have work experience (e.g. if you’re not entry-level or a recent graduate),  your recent work experience is the first place a hiring manager or recruiter looks on your resume  to see if you’re a good fit for their job.

So you want to put it front-and-center, and make sure your  bullet points  and other employment history details are GREAT.

For 95% of job seekers, there should only be a few things that come before your work history on your resume: You should put your name/contact info, a brief resume summary section , and that’s it.

After this, you should be diving right into the employment history on your resume, because it’s what employers want to see right away on your resume. 

What Should You Include in Your Resume Work Experience Section?

Your experience on a resume should include employer names, locations, dates of employment, job title held, and the professional experience you gained in the role.

You should provide detailed experience on a resume in terms of not only duties assigned and skills used, but also what you achieved and accomplished in this job.

You can do this by beginning sentences and bullet points under your work experience with verbs and power words like “Led,” “Increased,” etc.

Along with company names, locations, job titles, dates, and accomplishments, also consider including any promotions and awards you received at any previous company.

Awards and accolades are important achievements that show you’ve performed well in your career and handled the responsibilities given to you, which will excite employers.

Write your work experience in reverse chronological order, meaning that your most recent companies and job titles appear at the top and then you work downward, ending on the first role you ever held.

Formatting Your Previous Work Experience to Impress Employers

The best resume format for job seekers is the reverse chronological format , which means you should begin your experience with your most recent role on top and then work backward through your professional career.

For each position, include the job title, dates, and company name, and then describe your professional experience and achievements in that role. You can either use a brief paragraph to describe the role and then bullets, or use only bullets. However, you should not use only paragraph format when writing your work experience section.

This is a mistake that many job seekers make, and it leads to their resumes being skimmed over by recruiters and hiring managers.

Bullets do a better job of catching attention and getting an employer to closely read your experience section.

If you held multiple jobs in a company over time, list each job with its own dates and relevant experience.

It’s a huge mistake to not show each specific job title under a company, because this shows that you were promoted and advanced.

As a final step, as you write your previous work descriptions and bullet points, glance at the job description to ensure you’re covering the important skills that employers seem to want for the job you’re pursuing.

This is known as tailoring a resume.

3 Previous Work Experience Examples

Now that you know the basics of how to write the work history section of your resume, let’s look at some good employment history samples from real resumes.

I invited a couple of experts to share their resume work history examples for this section.

I’ll share two resume work experience examples from them, and then I’ll include a very simple/plain example that I’ve used in the past with a lot of success.

Resume Work Experience Example #1

You can use bold text like the example above to highlight key accomplishments on your resume. You can also use bullets, checkmarks, and other simple graphics to make sure your best work is noticed.

This resume work history also has a separate section for “Select Accomplishments”. This is a unique way to put all of your best accomplishments from each role in one place that’s likely to get noticed and read by hiring managers.

Contributed by: Kyle Elliott, MPA, CHES, Career Coach at  CaffeinatedKyle.com

Resume Work Experience Example #2:

This is another employment history sample showing a great balance between attractive styling, but not going overboard and making it too “busy” or distracting.

Only one color is being used: blue ( research has shown  the color blue is calming and is associated with credibility and dependability, so it’s a good color to use). And the styling is simple enough to keep the reader’s attention on your accomplishments.

Contributed by: Virginia Franco, Founder of  Virginia Franco Resumes  and Forbes contributor

Resume Work Experience Example #3:

This is a very plain format, but if you’re in a field like accounting, finance, sales, data entry, customer service, etc., it could be a good choice.

They’re going to interview you and hire you for your skills and what you’ve done for past employers, not for a fancy resume design, right? So a simple format highlights exactly what they want!

If this is a little too plain for you, I’d recommend adding some blue like the two previous examples we looked at. That’s the first change I’d make to this if I were re-doing it today (this is a resume format I’ve used very successfully in the past).

By: Biron Clark, former recruiter and Founder of  CareerSidekick.com

Grammar and Wording

Next, I’m going to share two critical tips for how to phrase and set up your work experience section to sound professional.

First, avoid talking in the first person, with phrases like, “I am a Customer Success Manager”.

Simply say “Customer Success Manager” to lead off a description of your past or current job.

Example: “Customer Success Manager leading seven support associates and…”

And next tip: When writing bullet points and paragraphs to describe your recent roles, I recommend using the past tense when it comes to your verbs.

You can see this in the resume samples above. For example, the second bullet in resume example #3 above:

“Built key ‘C’ level relationships…”

Built is a past tense verb.

This is how I recommend approaching your resume writing overall.

This sounds better when you describe job experience, versus writing, “Building” or “Build”.

So keep these small tips in mind when writing your job history and try to match the resume examples above.

Using this tone to describe past positions will impress your next prospective employer and sound professional and clear.

Colors and Design of Your Work History on a Resume

The first rule to follow when you write your employment history is to keep it simple in terms of style and formatting.

If you’re not a professional designer, your resume format should not have fancy graphics and colors. 

That’s true of  every section of your resume .

Pick one accent color at most (for example, some headers in dark blue if the rest of the text is black), one or two fonts total, and one or two header sizes.

You’ll notice all three resume employment history samples above keep colors to a minimum and focus on the content itself. That’s what you should do as well.

You want the employer’s focus to be on your past work experience, not on the styling and colors of your resume, so don’t distract them too much.

Further reading: The best colors for your resume.

Customizing These Work Experience Examples

Now, you could just copy and use one of the formats above, from the three previous work experience examples that I just gave you.

However, I also recommend adjusting it to fit your situation. I’ll explain…

Depending on how often you’ve changed jobs and how long you’ve been working, you may want to list months and years, or only years for your dates of employment.

Be strategic and decide what’s best for you. If you held a job for only a few months, it might be better just to list everything in terms of years, and not include months.

And… you can also leave a job off of your resume entirely. This is not a “work history” section of a job application where you’re required to list all previous jobs.  It’s entirely up to you what goes on your resume).

Whatever you do, stay consistent with the same formatting for every job.  That’s very important. Remember, you want this to be EASY to read for the hiring manager.

So use the work experience examples above to create your own, but also make sure you’re doing what fits your career and experience!

How Far Back Should Your Employment History Go?

My advice here is the same advice I give for how back to go with your story when they ask, “ tell me about yourself ” in an interview.

If you’ve been working for less than 8-10 years, I’d go back to the beginning of your professional work history, and try to tailor everything to be relevant to the jobs you’re pursuing now.

You might be thinking there’s nothing in common between your prior professional experience and the jobs you want now, but there’s usually an angle you can find!

Here’s an example of how you may have relevant experience in your background even if you’re an entry-level job seeker or applying to a totally new type of position:

When I was in college, I worked in customer service at Whole Foods Market. Not too glamorous, right?

But I became a supervisor, and  you’d be amazed how many interviewers asked me about this job , even after 4-5 years had passed (and for office jobs that seemed unrelated to working in a supermarket).

So don’t assume something isn’t relevant. If you showed advancement/growth, leadership, or other impressive traits, employers will love it. It’s your job to  make the bullet points impressive  and show them how it’s relevant.

Now, on the other hand, if you’ve worked more than 10 years, and/or if you are a Manager/Director, etc., consider starting your resume work history at the point you became a manager.

If you’re 45 years old and have been a Manager for 15 years, most employers aren’t going to want to look back and see how you got started as an individual contributor 20+ years ago. They’ll want to see where you started as a Manager, and how you progressed since then. So start there – how you got into your current line of work.

Where To Put Your Work History Section on Your Resume?

Short answer: If you have any work experience at all, this section is the #1 most important thing on your resume – and the first place hiring managers and recruiters look. It should be on the top half of the first page.

Don’t put your Skills section before it. No hiring manager or recruiter wants to see a general list of your skills (with no idea how recently you’ve used each skill, or how) before they see your work experience. You can read more about how to write your resume Skills section and where to list it here.

Don’t put your Education section before it, either, unless you are a Doctor or have a Ph.D. and are in a profession where this educational background is a hard requirement to obtaining any job in the field.

For everyone else, which is 95%+ of people, just put your name and contact details centered at the top of your resume, then put a one-paragraph career summary , and then go right into your work experience.

You can label the section whatever you want: Work History, Employment History, Work Experience, etc.

The point is that your resume work history should be extremely easy to find, without the hiring manager needing to scroll down or search much.

Make Sure to List Specific Accomplishments in Your Work History

With the examples above, it’s important to list accomplishments on your resume work history, not just duties/responsibilities.

There’s a big difference between saying, “I was responsible for handling 50 customer requests per day”, and saying, “I successfully responded to 50 customer requests per day, while keeping a 98% customer satisfaction rating”.

In the second one, you’re phrasing it as an accomplishment instead of simply talking about what you were responsible for or “supposed to do.” And you’re adding a great data point – 98% customer satisfaction.

Try to do this whenever possible when listing accomplishments on your resume. Keep that in mind when you copy the examples above.

If you want more help with this, detailed examples and instructions are  here .

Tailor Everything!

After using these resume work history examples to write and  format your resume , don’t forget to tailor your accomplishments and bullet points to match the job description for the role you want. This is one of the quickest ways to get noticed and get  invited to an interview .

(And if you skip this or don’t bother doing it, you’re probably going to lose out on the job to someone who did this – seriously! If you aren’t doing this, it’s a big reason  why you haven’t found a job yet ).

Here’s how to  tailor your resume for a job before applying . (<< Fastest, easiest method)

The general idea is if the top 2-3 bullet points on the job description talk about a certain skill or piece of experience, you should do everything you can to reorganize your achievements on your resume to highlight those same areas.

So do your research (the best place to start is the job description), and then re-order your bullet points to show off the exact experience they want, whenever you possibly can. Don’t make them go digging and searching for it or you run the risk they’ll move on to someone else’s resume instead.

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Resume Work Experience

We’ve now looked at tips for writing your employment history, samples from real resumes, and more. I want to leave you with the mistakes to make sure you avoid when you put together your own resume work history section.

Mistake #1: Having Your Employment History Start Below the First Half of Page 1

You’ll notice in the work history samples earlier, this section starts early on the resume. Making a hiring manager or recruiter go digging in your resume to find this section is a big mistake.

Put it front and center (on the top half of page 1). You want your recent experience and achievements to be dead easy to find for any company you send your resume to.

That’s one of the best tips I can share in general: Don’t make employers go digging for your recent responsibilities and achievements on your resume. It should jump out of the page at them because it should contain a lot of content compared to other sections, and it should appear high up.

Mistake #2: Rushing Through Your Work History to Write Other Resume Sections

There’s no section on your resume more important than your employment history. You should be spending 40-50% of your time on just this section. So don’t rush through this. You only need to do it once, but it needs to be GREAT if you want to  get interviews .

Mistake #3: Not Putting Facts, Numbers, and Accomplishments

If your resume employment history is full of phrases like, “Responsible for…” then you’re missing a big opportunity to impress employers.

They want to see specific accomplishments in a past position, for example:

Led a team of 4 people to reorganize client onboarding program, resulting in a 23% increase in client retention year-over-year.

Here’s  how to write great resume bullets like this.

Mistake #4: Thinking it’s all about you and not about the employer

The average job seeker thinks their resume work history is all about them. They decide what THEY want to write, what THEY care about, etc.

That’s a backward approach, believe it or not. (Assuming you want to get more interviews).

The best way to approach writing your resume employment history is to think of the employer. Look at their job description. What are their needs? What skills do they care about?

That’s why I mentioned “tailoring” your resume in the previous section. It’s incredibly important. Don’t write your previous work experience without a few job descriptions in front of you… for the jobs you want to get!

That’s how to make sure what you’re writing will get you interviews.

Most of the mistakes above should be a review if you’ve read the entire article above. If not, go back and make sure you’ve read everything.

You only get one shot to impress employers with your resume, and  they’re looking at your previous work experience within 10 seconds of opening your resume. 

Use These Resume Work History Samples to Get More Interviews

If you follow the advice above and use the employment history templates and samples to write your own resume work history section, you’re going to get noticed by more employers and get more interviews.

It’s worth taking the extra time to do a great job on your resume experience section and ensure that you’re listing detailed achievements within your experience. Focus especially on your two or three most recent positions since that’s the experience an employer will focus on first when reviewing your career.

This one piece of your resume is sometimes all a recruiter will look at before deciding “yes” or “no” on whether they want to interview you, so it’s key to a successful job search.

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

More Resume Tips & Guides

Crafting the perfect resume for teens (template & expert advice), how artificial intelligence (ai) is changing resume writing, 22 resume bullet point examples that get interviews, are resume writers worth it, finding a job after self employment: tips for resumes, interviews and more, career change interview tips, resume tips and more, how much does a resume writer cost (average price and ranges), walk me through your resume: answer examples, applying for jobs out of state this resume tip can help, how long should a resume be, 1 thought on “previous work experience examples for a resume”.

I have been off working for more than a year due to family emergency. Now I am ready to get back to work. During the time when I needed to take care of my family, I took some online courses and part time classroom classes to upgrade myself and keep connected to the job market.

I want to know if I should mention this one year gap in my resume. If so, can you give me some examples how to write it will make my resume look more professional and convincing.

Thanks in advance for your help.

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• Work Experience for a Resume:...

Work Experience for a Resume: How to Add it to Get Hired

14 min read · Updated on December 20, 2023

Present your work experience well and you'll blow other applicants out of the water!

For most professionals, the Work Experience section of their resme will be the most important part of their most important career document. This is the part that proves to a hiring manager that you have the knowledge, background, and experience to excel. But, given that it carries so much weight, how can you write and format it for maximum impact?

In this article, we'll examine how to lay out your resume work experience section, what to include, and how to word it. There are plenty of examples too, so that you can visualize how your resume could look. In short, we'll give you the crib sheet that teaches you how to produce a stellar resume that gets noticed for all the right reasons.

Where should I position my resume work experience?

While your work experience is likely to make up the bulk of your resume, that doesn't mean you should put it right at the top. Start with your contact details and headline , followed by a profile summary and your key skills .

Then, you have a decision to make. If you're a recent graduate , or you're aiming for your first job, your qualifications are probably more impressive than any work experience you have. Therefore, put your qualifications section directly under the key skills and position any work experience you have underneath that.

If you're established in your career, however, it's your professional experience that should take center stage. Relegate your qualifications to the bottom of the resume and promote your work experience to start just below your skills.

Pro tip: When you're writing a resume, put yourself in the mind of your reader. Make sure it's easy for them to find the most impressive and relevant information!

How to lay out your resume work experience

First things first – you need to create a basic layout for your resume work experience that you can then replicate for every role. You'll need the following elements:

Section heading

To ensure your resume is easy to navigate, begin with the section heading. You can choose from any of the following:

Work experience

Professional experience

Career history

Career summary

The heading should be in a larger font than the body of the text, so that a reader can immediately identify and jump to the section they're interested in.

Next up, you'll need a subheading for every role you've held over the last 10-15 years. Within that subheading, include:

Your job title. Ideally use your official job title, but if you're going for a similar role with a slightly different title, it's fine to tweak it, or to put the target job title in brackets. The key point is that the job title should accurately reflect what the job actually entails.

The name of your employer. Use their formal name, e.g. “Ford Motor Company” rather than just “Ford.”

The start and end dates of your employment. Just month and year will do – or even just year if you've held each role for a long time. Keep the format consistent, whether you chose “12/2023” or  “Dec 2023” or “December 2023.”

The location. Add the state or country you worked in, unless you've always worked, and will continue to work, locally - in which case location is less important.

When you've laid out this sub-heading, duplicate it for every role so that you have a uniform presentation that looks professional.

Role and responsibilities

Below the sub-heading for every role, you'll need to briefly explain your overall role and responsibilities. You don't need to go into much detail on this – 3 to 4 lines or bullet points should be plenty. The key here is to ensure that someone from outside the company, or someone unfamiliar with the role, can immediately understand what you were employed to do. Quantify whatever information you can, so that the reader can understand the scope of your duties, too.

Achievements

Now we come to the star attraction of your resume work experience section – your achievements! Aim to list a minimum of 3 achievements for every role you've held over the last 10-15 years. Remember, an achievement in this context doesn't mean something personal to you, such as learning to use new computer software. It means a benefit you've delivered to the company.

Start every achievement with a dynamic verb , such as reduced, exceeded, improved, increased, won… the options are endless. Again, quantify everything you can so that the hiring manager can appreciate the impact you've had on the business.

Which work experience is listed first on a resume?

Always write your resume work experience in reverse chronological order – that means your current (or latest) job first, working backwards in time as you go down the page. By doing that, your most recent, high-level, and impressive experience will be the first thing the reader sees.

Resume work experience example

Let's put all that together to see how it works:

Professional Experience

Head of IT                                                                                                                       May 2015 – date

Big Business Inc.

Led a team of 25 Software Engineers and controlled a $30million annual budget to provide IT services to 5,000 users across 15 locations. Directed transformation projects and contributed as a key member of the senior leadership team.

Key achievements

Enabled $5million of savings by overseeing a project to implement a time management system for 2,500 staff

Reduced average support resolution times by 20% by upskilling and expanding the team

Reduced printing costs by $30,000 per year by renegotiating contracts with suppliers

Senior Systems Engineer                                                                                      Jan 2013 – May 2015

Small Business Inc.

Held full accountability for all IT requirements in 3 UK offices, supported 50 users and managed a portfolio of IT projects.

Improved data retention and retrieval by 4 hours per request by transitioning from tape to cloud back-up

Won Manager of the Year for 2 consecutive years

As you can see, the focus of the resume work experience section here is on the value added to the business. By quantifying the scope of the role and the achievements, it's easy for the reader to understand this person's previous experience and how they can make a positive impact in the role.

How much work experience do I put on my resume?

As you'll have seen above, we recommend using this resume work experience format for all the roles you've held in the last 10-15 years. That doesn't mean any earlier work experience is useless and should be discarded! No, it just means that this level of detail isn't required.

Recruiters are usually most interested in your most recent experience. Earlier roles can simply be summarized in an Early Career section, giving just job title, employer name, and years of employment (you can omit the years, or even your earliest jobs, if you're concerned about age discrimination).

Similarly, if you've held many roles in the last 10-15 years, you may want to change the cut-off point to 8-10 years. A resume is flexible! Its job is to show your suitability for the role, so if you're repeating yourself or adding less relevant information, you can start summarizing sooner – it will benefit both you and your reader. As a general rule of thumb, 4-5 roles in detail is usually plenty.

How to write a resume with no work experience

Everyone has to start somewhere! If you haven't started your first job yet, that doesn't mean you can't write an impressive resume. Consider these options:

Include volunteering. If you've worked in a voluntary position , that's ideal – your resume work experience can relate to both paid and unpaid work. Present your volunteering experience the same way you'd present paid experience, as we outlined above.

Create a skills-based resume. If you have no work experience to add, you can create a skills-based resume. Add sub-headings for your relevant skills, with bullets underneath giving examples of when you've used each skill (preferably outcome-oriented).

Leverage school and college experience. Were you the Captain of a sports team? Secretary of a society? Mentor for other students? Pet-sitter? If you lack professional experience, you can draw from every other area of your life to demonstrate to a hiring manager that you have the experience and attitude to succeed in their vacant position.

If you're worried that the work experience section on your resume is a bit light at the moment, now's the perfect time to get out there and beef it up. Ask neighbors if they need a babysitter, volunteer to tutor younger students, help out the elderly lady across the street – get creative in finding ways to build up this part of your resume!

Resume example for students with no work experience

The work experience section of a resume for students with no work experience could look like this:

Work Experience

College  Ambassador at XYZ College (ad hoc)                                                    2022 - 2023

Represented the Computer Science course as a subject ambassador, speaking with prospective students and parents about the course and the college. Answered questions politely and shared relevant information, with the course being over-subscribed following every open evening.

Assistant Golf Coach at ABC Golf Club (part time)                                           2022 - 2023

Assisted with coaching junior players aged from 9-15. Drove golf carts safely and with consideration for other players. Enabled players to progress, improve their skills and enjoy a new sport, resulting in additional memberships at the club.

How to tailor your resume work experience

Now that you've written your resume work experience section, you're ready to start job-hunting. But wait! Don't just fire off your master resume to every vacant job! You may have spent time perfecting the layout and the wording, but there's one final step before you hit send.

With the job posting in front of you, you'll need to tailor your resume work experience to your target role. What does that mean? Well, go through the advert and highlight the key requirements for the role, then make sure they're reflected back, very clearly, within your resume. Aim to use the exact words you've highlighted, so that your resume pops up when recruiters carry out a keyword search.

For example, you may notice that the role requires someone who can code in C#, but your resume currently states “programming.” Changing that one word to “coding in C#” aligns your resume better with the role requirements. Do this with every point you've highlighted and watch your resume fly to the top of the pile!

Resume work experience FAQs

Pulling together your resume work experience can be tricky, so we've pulled the most common questions together to make it easier for you.

Do employment gaps on a resume matter?

Employment gaps are a perfectly normal part of life, so embrace the gap! If you've had a break longer than a few months, though, it may help to positively (but briefly) address the gap on your resume. Here are some suggestions on how you could do that:

2020 – 2023 – Planned career break to raise a family

2018 – 2019 – Career break due to redundancy: time spent pursuing an online course and completing home renovations

2023 – 2024 – Career break due to illness: now fully recovered and fit to return to full-time work 

Should I include work experience that's not relevant to my target job?

Sometimes, life can blow you in unexpected directions. If you've had a role that doesn't align with your current career aspirations, it need not be a problem. Consider these suggestions:

Eliminate the role. If taking the role off the resume won't leave a gaping and unexplained hole, you can simply remove it, no questions asked.

Minimize the role. If removing the role would raise unnecessary questions, include it – briefly. Keep the same sub-headings as usual, but don't dedicate more than a line or two to your responsibilities and achievements, just mention the job and move on.

Reframe the role. Rather than focusing on the irrelevant aspects of the role, just write about the transferable parts.

Can you include volunteer experience?

Absolutely! Volunteering is generally very positively viewed. We described above how a student with no work experience can include volunteering on their resume, but what if you have a solid career already? You have four options here:

Use it to cover a gap. Volunteering can be used to cover a gap in your resume if you include it as part of your work experience section. Treat it as you would a paid role.

Create a volunteering section. If your voluntary work uses relevant skills that aren't coming through elsewhere on your resume, create a separate volunteering section, laid out in the same way as the work experience section. While you won't want to go into such great detail, it gives you the opportunity to highlight information that would otherwise go unmentioned.

Add a brief one-liner. If your volunteering doesn't add any relevant skills or experience, but you still want to mention it, you can add a brief line in your Further Details section – that's where you can include any information to support your candidacy that doesn't fit neatly anywhere else – for example, foreign language proficiency.

Ignore it. There's no obligation to include volunteering on your resume, so if you don't think it adds any value, just leave it off!

Can I leave jobs off my resume?

There are certain situations where it's acceptable to leave jobs off your resume. We mentioned irrelevant jobs above, but you may want to leave them off for other reasons. If you held a job back in the eighties, for example, it probably has very little relevance to your career today. A resume is a sales brochure, not a life story, so there's no harm leaving off outdated experience.

What if you were fired, or left on bad terms? Well, ideally a resume wouldn't have an unexplained gap on it, so you can either include it and hope they aren't asked to provide a reference, or you can take it off and find another brief way to explain the gap. The shorter the time in the role, the easier this will be!

Should I put a short-term job on my resume?

It's not unusual to take a stop-gap job to retain an income between permanent roles. Whether you choose to include it on your resume depends on how relevant it is to your current career aspirations. If it's relevant, there's no harm in including it. You could emphasize that it was a “short term contract” or “maternity cover” to pre-empt questions. If it's not relevant, however, you can pick the most suitable option above where we discuss irrelevant work experience.

How can I show a promotion on a resume?

Congratulations on your promotion, it's definitely resume-worthy! A promotion shows that you've performed well and received recognition from your superiors, and that's definitely something a hiring manager will want to know. Make sure that you include the company name within the sub-heading of every role, as that way any reader will be able to trace your progress within the business. 

You may also want to add a line into your achievements section, if there was a particular reason for your promotion – for example, “Achieved selection into a more senior role having reduced customer complaints by 50% in just 6 months.”

How do I list an internship?

An internship can be included just like any other paid, permanent role. Include the same details and focus on the experience you gained and any value you added to the business.

A little effort now can get you far

The work experience part of your resume is arguably the hardest part to write, but it can have a great impact if it's done well. By following our guidelines on including resume work experience, you'll soon have a resume to be proud of that opens doors for you.

Want to check you're hitting the right notes? Why not submit your resume for a free resume review by our experts? They'll make sure you're hitting all the right notes before you apply for your dream job.

Recommended reading:

9 Soft Skills Employers Want

How to List Education on Your Resume (with Examples)

How to Write a Targeted Resume That Lands You an Interview

Related Articles:

Guide to the Best Margin Size to Use on Your Resume

What to Say When Emailing a Resume (with Examples)

Empathic Listening: Definition, Examples, and Skills

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Resume Work Experience Example

Get hired faster and get inspiration for your new resume with our free, carefully composed resume Work Experience example. Download this resume sample as it is or rewrite it using our simple yet powerful resume maker.

Resume Work Experience Example (Full Text Version)

Kenneth pihl.

Goal-oriented and performance-driven Assistant Finance Coordinator offering 3 years of relevant experience and a bachelor's degree in Finance from the Leeds University. Effective team player with exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills and the important ability to function well in deadline-driven business environments.

Work experience

• Participated in the budget development and management and maintained business records.
• Created payment schedules, constantly monitored general ledger accounts, and conducted professional income and expense analysis.
• Stayed up-to-date with current laws and legislation and worked on the improvement of profitability - increased the profitability by 7%.
• Reviewed various documents to ensure the accuracy of all information and executed other key tasks as assigned by the supervisor.
• Recognized as a top-achieving employee by the company executives for exceeding all targets and goals.

First Class Honours (Top 3% of the Programme)

Clubs and Societies : Economics Society, FinTech Society, Swimming Club

The 2013 Best Graduate Award winner

Extracurricular Activities : Debate Club, Golf Club, Political Society, Student Council

Volunteering

Certificates.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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Resume Job Description for Work Experience: 20 Best Samples

As a job seeker, crafting a compelling and comprehensive resume is critical to landing your dream job. A clear job description is an essential element of a resume as it provides recruiters with an understanding of the skills, experiences, and accomplishments you possess. A well-written job description can make or break a resume, so it is essential to know how to write one that accurately captures your qualifications.

The goal of this article is to provide you with the best job descriptions for work experience that you can use to enhance your own resume. We’ve conducted extensive research and analysis to compile a comprehensive list of the 20 best job descriptions that showcase various industries and professions. By using these examples as a guide, you can create a compelling job description that highlights your skills and experience, making your resume stand out from the crowd.

This article is organized into four main sections as follows:

Importance of a Clear Job Description: In this section, we’ll take a closer look at why a clear job description is so critical to the success of your resume, and we’ll discuss the common mistakes job seekers make with their job descriptions.

How to Write a Great Job Description: In this section, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating a job description that accurately reflects your skills and experience. We’ll cover the essential elements of a job description, and we’ll also provide tips for making your job description more engaging and compelling.

20 Best Job Descriptions for Work Experience: This section contains the heart of the article. We’ve compiled twenty of the best job descriptions we could find from various industries and professions. Each job description includes a summary of qualifications and key responsibilities, as well as tips on how to tailor the job description to your specific needs.

Conclusion: In our conclusion, we’ll summarize the key takeaways from this article and provide additional resources to help you continue improving your resume.

This article is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their resume with a strong job description. With the examples and tips provided, you’ll be well on your way to creating a compelling description of your skills and experience that will capture the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.

What is a job description?

A job description is an official document that outlines the responsibilities, duties, qualifications, and requirements of a particular job role.

A. Definition of job description

Job description is an essential piece of document that provides comprehensive and accurate information about a job position. It outlines the key responsibilities, duties, and requirements that candidates need to possess in order to be considered for the job.

B. Purpose of job description

The purpose of a job description is to define what the job entails and what qualities an ideal candidate should have. It serves as a guide for both employers and job seekers on what to expect from the role and what skills and attributes are necessary to perform the job successfully.

C. Importance of job description for employers and job seekers

For employers, a well-written job description is essential to attract the right candidates for the position. It not only helps them to identify and screen the right candidates, but it also assists in setting realistic expectations for the role. Additionally, a job description can serve as a legal document in case of any disputes.

For job seekers, a job description can provide a clear understanding of what the job entails, the qualifications required, and the skills needed to excel in the role. It can also help them to determine whether they are a good fit for the position, and whether the job aligns with their career goals.

A job description is a crucial document that can benefit both employers and job seekers by providing accurate information about the job position. It serves as a guide that helps employers to attract and select qualified candidates while enabling job seekers to determine whether a position is suitable for them or not.

Types of Job Descriptions

Job descriptions play a crucial role in the hiring process, as they serve as the primary source of information for candidates. They provide applicants with an accurate portrayal of the job and outline the expectations associated with the position. There are three main types of job descriptions: generic, tailored, and inclusive.

A. Generic Job Descriptions

Generic job descriptions are a one-size-fits-all approach. They are often used when companies hire for multiple positions with similar tasks and requirements. These job descriptions typically provide a basic outline of the role and tend to be less detailed, which can make it challenging for potential candidates to differentiate between similar positions.

However, generic job descriptions can still provide valuable insight into what the company is seeking in candidates and can help applicants determine if they meet the minimum qualifications for the role. They are also ideal for companies that are just starting to create job descriptions or hiring for entry-level positions.

B. Tailored Job Descriptions

Tailored job descriptions are customized to each position, with job duties, requirements, and qualifications that are specific to the role. They provide a more in-depth look at what the job is about and what is expected of the candidate. The customization allows the company to highlight certain skills and experiences that are unique to the position and their organization.

Tailored job descriptions are essential for finding the best-suited candidates for a particular role. They can also help the company minimize the number of unqualified applicants and reduce the time it takes to fill the position. However, it is crucial to ensure that the job description accurately reflects the position to avoid confusion among candidates and potential legal issues.

C. Inclusive Job Descriptions

Inclusive job descriptions not only outline the job requirements and qualifications but also ensure that the language used is inclusive and free of bias. Job descriptions need to exhibit diversity and inclusion while avoiding any language that may hinder qualified candidates from applying.

Inclusive job descriptions should use gender-neutral pronouns, avoid using words that could be perceived as discriminating (e.g., masculine or feminine), and avoid any assumptions about the candidate’s background (e.g., age, marital status, race, religion, or sexual orientation). By doing this, the company can attract a more diversified pool of candidates, which can lead to a more diverse workforce and a more diverse set of ideas.

Job descriptions play a vital role in the hiring process. Whether you opt for a generic, tailored, or inclusive job description depends on your company’s needs and the position being filled. It is essential to carefully consider what the job entails, what is expected of the candidate, and the company’s values and goals when creating any type of job description.

Benefits of using a job description in your resume

Incorporating a job description in your resume can bring several benefits to your job search. Some of these benefits include:

A. Clear understanding of job requirements

When you use a job description in your resume, you get a clear understanding of what the job entails. This is especially important when you’re applying for a job that you’re not very familiar with. By examining the job description, you can understand the skills, education, and experience required for the job, and tailor your application accordingly.

B. Aligning skills and experience with job requirements

Using the job description in your resume helps you align your skills and experience with the job requirements. You can focus on highlighting your skills and experiences that match the job requirements, making your application more relevant and attractive to employers.

C. Highlighting relevant accomplishments

Another benefit of using a job description in your resume is that you can use it to highlight your relevant accomplishments. By examining the job requirements, you can identify the accomplishments that are the most relevant to the job, and then highlight them in your resume. This can include projects you have worked on, results you have achieved, or any other accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and experience.

Using a job description in your resume can help you create a more effective application that stands out to potential employers. By understanding the job requirements, aligning your skills and experience, and highlighting relevant accomplishments, you can increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Key Elements of a Job Description

A job description is a crucial document that outlines the necessary details of a job opening. It serves as a roadmap for recruiters and hiring managers to define the role and responsibilities, qualifications, job location, and other important details of the position. Every job description must include certain key elements to ensure that candidates have a clear understanding of what they’re signing up for.

A. Job Title and Summary

The job title and summary section provides a quick overview of the job’s primary responsibilities, its level within the organization, and whom the position reports. This section should be concise and precise, accurately conveying the job’s purpose and essential functions.

B. Job Duties and Responsibilities

The job duties and responsibilities section outlines the specific tasks expected from the candidate if hired. List the essential functions of the job, the roles it interfaces with, and any supervisory or management responsibilities the job requires.

C. Required Qualifications

The required qualifications section lists the minimum qualifications for applicants to be considered for the position. Describe the education level, experience, and any specific technical or professional certifications required. Providing clear indicators of the expectations around qualifications helps ensure that potential candidates are appropriately qualified.

D. Salary and Benefits

You may choose to include a salary range for this role or simply indicate that it is competitive or like-minded to others within the industry. Likewise, you can refrain from listing every benefit, but at a minimum, mention that the position includes benefits such as healthcare coverage or retirement savings contribution.

E. Company Culture

The company culture section should describe the operating environment and employees’ work experience. Highlight the key pillars of your culture, such as collaboration, innovation, excellence, work-life balance, diversity, and inclusion. Candidates will appreciate knowing what it’s like to work for your organization in general terms, as it can inform how well they may fit into your team.

A well-crafted job description is vital in attracting top candidates for your company or organization. Make sure to include all essential elements of a job description, including the job title and summary, the job duties and responsibilities, required qualifications, salary and benefits, and company culture.

How to Incorporate a Job Description in Your Resume

When writing a resume, it’s important to incorporate the job description to optimize the chances of getting an interview. This involves the use of specific keywords and tailoring the resume to match the required skills and qualifications.

A. Use of Keywords

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter through resumes and identify candidates who meet their requirements. Therefore, it’s crucial to include relevant industry buzzwords and terminology in your resume to ensure that it’s picked up by the system.

To identify the keywords to use, carefully read the job posting and take note of the skills, qualifications and job requirements mentioned. If you possess any of these skills or have related experience, ensure that they’re captured in your resume.

B. Tailoring Job Description to Match Job Requirements

Once you’ve identified the relevant keywords, tailor your resume to reflect the job requirements. This includes changing the work experience section to emphasize the experience that’s most relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Use bullet points and action verbs to highlight key achievements and responsibilities. The description should be concise yet detailed enough to showcase your range of skills and experience.

C. Demonstration of Related Experience and Accomplishments

Your resume should demonstrate your ability to fulfill the job requirements by showcasing your related experience and accomplishments.

Include quantifiable achievements, such as “increased sales by 20%” or “managed department budget of $1 million.” These help illustrate the impact you can have on the company and make you stand out from other applicants.

Emphasize any relevant certifications, awards, or volunteer experience that showcases your ability to learn, grow, and contribute to the organization.

D. Formatting and Presentation

Finally, formatting and presentation are critical when it comes to resumes. The resume should be easy to read, with clear headings and bullet points. Avoid using graphics or images, as they can distract from the content.

Ensure that the resume is consistent in formatting throughout and use white space effectively to make it visually appealing. Proofread the document thoroughly to eliminate any typos or errors.

Incorporating the job description into your resume is critical to showcase your qualifications to potential employers. Use of relevant keywords, tailoring of job descriptions to match the requirements, and demonstrating related experience and accomplishments are all key components to a successful resume.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Job Description Writing

When crafting a job description, it is important to avoid certain common mistakes that can hinder your hiring process. Here are five mistakes to steer clear of:

A. Over-generalization

An over-generalized job description might make it difficult for potential candidates to understand the job responsibilities and requirements. Instead, it is important to emphasize specific duties and skills that the position requires.

B. Lack of Clarity

A job description that lacks clarity can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. Make use of clear language, and try to avoid ambiguity. Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs to help prospective candidates easily understand the job requirements.

C. Lack of Specificity

A job description that isn’t specific enough can prevent suitable candidates from applying. Be clear about the qualifications, skills, education, and experience required for the position. Include information about the company culture, work schedule, and environment, and make sure to use precise job titles.

D. Technical Jargon

Technical jargon can sometimes be difficult to understand for candidates who are not familiar with the industry-specific terms. In such cases, it is important to define technical terms and abbreviations or avoid using them altogether. This helps make your job description more accessible to a wider audience.

E. Discriminatory Language

Avoid using prejudiced language in your job description. Use neutral and inclusive language instead. This not only helps attract a diverse pool of candidates, but it is also a good practice that is respectful to all people.

Write concise and clear job descriptions that highlight specific job requirements, avoid overly technical language or discrimination, and use language that is easy to understand. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can attract the right candidates for your open position.

Best Practices for Writing a Job Description

When writing a job description, there are best practices that can help ensure that the document is effective and engaging. Some of the key practices to consider include:

A. Identify Target Audience

The first step in creating a successful job description is to identify the target audience. This means understanding who the ideal candidate is for the role and tailoring the description accordingly. Factors to consider may include the candidate’s level of experience, skills, and education, as well as their personality traits and work style.

B. Use of Action Verbs

A well-written job description should use action verbs to describe the duties and responsibilities of the role. This not only makes the document more engaging but also helps to clarify what is expected of the candidate. Action verbs should be specific and relevant to the role, such as “coordinate,” “collaborate,” or “analyze.”

C. Utilize Metrics

Including metrics in a job description can help the hiring manager understand what success looks like in the role. These metrics may relate to productivity, efficiency, or other key performance indicators. For example, a sales role may include metrics such as “increasing revenue by 20%” or “closing 50 deals per quarter.”

D. Consider Including a Company Summary

Finally, it can be useful to include a brief company summary in the job description. This can give candidates a better understanding of the organization’s culture, mission, and values.

By following these best practices, you can create a job description that attracts top candidates and clearly communicates the requirements of the role.

Examples of well-written job descriptions

When it comes to creating effective job descriptions, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, your job description should be clear and concise. It should outline the most important responsibilities and requirements of the role, and it should be written in a way that is easy to read and understand. To help you get started, here are four examples of well-written job descriptions:

A. Sales Representative

Our company is seeking a highly motivated and experienced sales representative to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, closing deals, and maintaining relationships with existing clients. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of sales success, excellent communication skills, and experience working with a CRM system.

Responsibilities:

• Identify new sales leads and potential customers
• Close deals and meet sales targets
• Maintain relationships with existing clients and identify upsell opportunities
• Provide exceptional customer service and support throughout the sales process
• Collaborate with our marketing team to develop and execute sales campaigns
• Use our CRM system to manage sales activity and track progress

Requirements:

• 3+ years of sales experience
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Proven track record of sales success
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience using a CRM system
• Bachelor’s degree in business or a related field

B. Marketing Manager

Our organization is seeking a driven and experienced marketing manager to lead our marketing team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies that drive revenue growth and promote brand awareness. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of marketing success, excellent leadership skills, and experience managing a team.

• Develop and implement marketing strategies that align with company goals
• Lead and manage the marketing team, providing guidance and support as needed
• Create and execute marketing campaigns across various channels (e.g. digital, print, events)
• Analyze market trends and customer data to inform marketing decisions
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure alignment and consistency across all marketing materials
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of marketing campaigns
• 5+ years of marketing experience
• Strong leadership and management skills
• Proven track record of marketing success
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with digital marketing tools and platforms
• Bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field

C. Financial Analyst

Our finance team is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical financial analyst to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for analyzing financial data and preparing reports that inform strategic business decisions. The ideal candidate will have excellent analytical skills, experience with financial modeling, and a strong understanding of financial statements.

An Expert’s Tips for Utilizing Job Descriptions During the Interview Process

A well-written job description can help job seekers better understand a company’s expectations for the role, and can provide them with valuable guidance as they prepare for the interview.

Here are my tips for utilizing job descriptions during the interview process:

A. Using job descriptions as a reference

Job descriptions should be used as a reference when preparing for a job interview. Make sure you thoroughly read and understand the job description so that you can tailor your answers to the company’s specific needs. This will show that you have considered the job requirements and that you are the right fit for the position.

B. Prepare for common interview questions

Job descriptions can also help you prepare for common interview questions. Look for keywords and phrases in the job description that indicate what the company is looking for in a candidate. Use these clues to anticipate interview questions and prepare strong, specific answers that demonstrate how you meet the job requirements.

C. Ask clarifying questions

During the interview, it is essential to ask clarifying questions. The job description can help you come up with relevant questions that will show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the role and have done your research. Asking clarifying questions can also help you gain a better understanding of the company’s culture, expectations, and goals, which can help you make a more informed decision about whether the position is the right fit for you.

Job descriptions are a valuable resource to have during the job interview process. They can be used as a reference, help you prepare for common interview questions, and assist you in asking relevant clarifying questions. By utilizing these tips, you can make a better impression on the interviewer and increase your chances of landing the job.

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Resume Resources

What is a resume.

A resume is a brief summary of personal and professional experiences, skills, and education history. Its main purpose is to show off your best self to potential employers.

When applying for a job, you’re (in most cases) going to be asked for a resume accompanied by a cover letter.

If you manage to create a “good” resume, you’re going to 2x your chances of getting hired . Want to learn how? Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume .

How to Write a Resume for Your First Job?

The process of writing a resume might seem super scary to you. After all, most resume examples you see on the web are 80% about work experience. So, what the heck can you include in your resume if you have none?

Well, here’s some good news. If you’re applying for an entry-level job or an internship, no one expects you to have ANY work experience.

Instead, you should focus on what you DO have: education, projects, volunteering experience, hobbies & interests.

For a complete guide on how to make a resume with no work experience stand out, check out our article.

What to Put on a Resume?

The most common sections on a resume are:

Contact information

Resume summary or objective

Work experience

If you want to personalize your resume a bit more, you can also include the following sections:

Volunteering experience

Hobbies & interests

For more information on how to place these sections on your resume, check out our article on what to put on a resume .

How to Format a Resume?

There are 3 typical resume formats:

Reverse-Chronological Resume

Functional Resume

Combination Resume

In 99% of the cases, you’ll want to go with the Reverse Chronological resume format. That’s the format most resumes you’ve seen follow - its main focus is your work experience, written down in reverse-chronological order.

Unless you’re looking to create a career change resume , we’d recommend sticking with this format.

If you want to learn more about resume formats , check out our comparison guide.

How Long Should a Resume Be?

Ah, the most popular resume question in the world: “how long should your resume be?”

Short answer: one page. If you have a lot of work experience (10 years +), sometimes it makes sense to make it 2 pages MAX if everything you mention is super relevant for the position you’re applying for.

Long answer: check out our guide on how long should a resume be .

P.S. all of our templates are one-page resume templates, so you shouldn’t have a lot of trouble sticking to the one-page limit!

How to Write a Resume Summary?

Your resume summary is a “hook” that goes on top of your resume. Think of it as an introduction to the rest of your resume. It should, in 2-4 sentences, explain what your background is, and why it’s relevant for the position you’re applying for.

Want your resume summary to stand out? Use this proven formula:

“Professional [job title] with X+ years of work experience in [job responsibility] . In the past Y years, I have [your top 1-2 achivements] . Seeking a position of [job title] at [company name] ”

To learn more about how to create a resume summary that excels, check out our guide.

On the other hand, if you’re a student or just don’t have a lot of work experience, read our article on how to create a resume objective instead.

How to List Work Experience on a Resume

Work experience on a resume is one of those things that’s easy to learn, hard to master.

Each work experience entry should contain the following:

Position title

Company name/description/location

Achievements or responsibilities

Dates employed

Now, if you want to create a work experience section that stands out , you want to focus on quantifiable achievements. What this means is, instead of creating an entry like:

“Carried out sales operations”

You list an achievement:

“Hit and exceeded monthly sales KPIs for 5 months in a row.”

This shows the employer that you’re not just a random candidate, you’re an A-player! To learn more about how to list achievements in your work experience (and land the job), check out our article.

How to List Skills on a Resume?

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Every job application asks for a cover letter (in addition to your resume). Here are some of our tips on how to do this right:

Customize your cover letter to the employer. The more personalized it is, the more likely it is for the recruiter to like you

Outline your general background (work experience, profession, etc.) and mention your top 2-3 achievements to show off your skills

If you really want to stand out, create a cover letter that matches your resume template. To do this, you can use one of our cover letter templates here.

If you want to learn more about how to write a convincing cover letter , check out our comprehensive guide.

What is the Best Resume Template?

There’s no such thing as “the best resume template” - every recruiter/employer has their own personal preference. Our general recommendation is to do your research on the company and what their values are.

For example, if you’re applying for a position at a bank, you’d want a more professional resume template. On the other hand, if you want a job in a startup where they value innovation more, you should stick to a creative resume template .

Finally, if you’re still not sure which type of template is right for the job you’re applying for, you can just use a simple resume template just to be safe.

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80 Sample Phrases for Office Manager Resume and 2 Cover Letter Examples

By Status.net Editorial Team on March 9, 2024 — 11 minutes to read

Crafting a strong office manager resume is a pivotal step in landing your next job opportunity. You want to showcase your ability to handle a multitude of administrative tasks while also being the glue that keeps the office running smoothly. Highlighting your organizational, communication, and leadership skills is important because these are the competencies that employers look for in an office manager.

Your resume should effectively demonstrate your experience managing office operations, supervising staff, and streamlining processes. It’s helpful to include specific examples, such as how you improved office efficiency or managed project coordination successfully. Remember to mention any relevant software you are proficient in, as technical skills are highly valued in this role.

Including quantifiable achievements can significantly strengthen your resume. Instead of merely stating your duties, focus on how your efforts delivered tangible results. Perhaps you implemented a new filing system that increased document retrieval speed by 30%, or you might have successfully negotiated with vendors to reduce office supply costs. These concrete examples speak volumes about your impact as an office manager and make your resume stand out to potential employers.

Professional Summary

In this section, you’ll find a snapshot of what to highlight about your experience and goals when crafting your own office manager resume. This will help you come across as competent and driven.

Examples of Professional Summaries for Office Manager Resume

Highly efficient Office Manager with a strong background in managing day-to-day operations and solving complex problems. Skilled in budgeting, scheduling, and maintaining a high standard of office organization. Committed to improving office systems to support business growth and staff development.

Versatile Office Manager with 7 years of experience in administrative leadership, specializing in team management, office organization, and process improvements. Adept at developing and implementing office policies that increase productivity and ensure smooth operations.

Office Manager with 5 years of experience in fostering positive work environments and maintaining high levels of staff morale and productivity. Expert in HR functions, including recruitment, onboarding, and performance management. Excellent communicator with a knack for building relationships with employees and vendors alike.

Detail-oriented and results-driven Office Manager with over a decade of experience overseeing administrative operations in fast-paced environments. Proven track record in streamlining office procedures, managing staff, and increasing efficiency. Recognized for exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities with ease.

Dedicated Office Manager with 8 years of experience working in small business environments. Expertise in all aspects of office management, from bookkeeping and payroll to inventory control and customer service. A proactive problem-solver with a passion for helping businesses thrive.

Office Manager with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence. Over 6 years of experience in managing administrative tasks, coordinating office events, and overseeing facility maintenance. Recognized for the ability to maintain a clean and organized office space that enhances workflow and productivity.

Tech-savvy Office Manager with a strong background in project management and office automation. Proficient in a variety of office software and technology, with a proven ability to adapt to new tools quickly. Skilled in coordinating cross-functional teams and managing complex projects under tight deadlines.

Strategic Office Manager with 10+ years of experience in supporting business operations and contributing to company growth. Skilled in developing business strategies, managing client relationships, and overseeing administrative functions. Adept at identifying opportunities for process improvements and cost savings.

Organized Office Manager with extensive experience in managing medical office operations, including patient scheduling, billing, and compliance with healthcare regulations. Known for maintaining confidentiality and providing exceptional patient service. Strong background in staff training and development within the healthcare sector.

Multilingual Office Manager with a unique international perspective, having worked in diverse cultural environments. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, with experience in translation and international communication. Proficient in coordinating international meetings and managing a multicultural staff.

Work Experience Examples for Office Manager Resume

Your work experience section is where you get to showcase the roles you’ve excelled in and the value you’ve added to your previous employers. This section is the meat of your resume, telling potential employers what you’ve accomplished and how your experience aligns with the job you’re applying for.

Recent Roles Examples

• Managed a team of 12 office personnel, ensuring efficient administrative operations.
• Oversaw office budget, reducing costs by 15% through strategic supplier negotiations.
• Implemented a new document management system which increased document retrieval times by 20%.
• Coordinated over 200+ corporate events, including logistics, budgeting, and post-event reporting.
• Served as the first point of contact for client communications, handling an average of 50+ calls daily.
• Revised the company’s filing system, resulting in a 30% improvement in team productivity.
• Streamlined office supply inventory management, cutting waste by 25%.
• Led the transition to a paperless office environment, reducing paper usage by over 40%.
• Facilitated inter-departmental communication to improve project turnaround times by 10%.
• Negotiated with vendors for office equipment, securing more favorable terms and pricing.

Key Achievements Examples

• Spearheaded a customer service initiative that boosted customer satisfaction ratings by 35%.
• Received the ‘Office Manager of the Year’ award for exceptional leadership and management.
• Played a key role in achieving ISO 9001 certification for the company.
• Developed and implemented an office-wide training program that increased employee competency by 50%.
• Authored an office procedures manual adopted company-wide for standardizing process efficiency.
• Initiated a remote work program that contributed to a 20% increase in employee satisfaction.
• Orchestrated a company-wide software upgrade with minimal downtime and zero data loss.
• Achieved a record-low staff turnover rate of 5% annually through improved employee engagement strategies.
• Designed and executed a cost-saving plan that slashed office expenses by $10,000 a year.
• Successfully planned and managed office relocation without disruption to business operations.

In this section, you’ll find the critical areas where you need to excel to become a successful office manager. Your resume should highlight how you effectively utilize these skills to manage office operations and contribute to the business.

Administrative Skills

Your administrative skills are the backbone of day-to-day office management.

• 1. Adept at office administration and executive support tasks.
• 2. Proficient in managing office supplies and vendor contracts.
• 3. Skilled in record-keeping and maintaining filing systems.
• 4. Expertise in scheduling and calendar management.
• 5. Strong background in implementing office policies and procedures.
• 6. Experienced in travel arrangements and event planning.
• 7. Capable of handling confidential information with discretion.
• 8. Competent in preparing detailed reports and presentations.
• 9. Efficient in managing office budgets and expenses.
• 10. Proficient in developing and maintaining office workflow procedures.

Interpersonal Abilities

Your ability to interact with others defines your role in the workplace dynamic.

• 1. Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written.
• 2. Proven ability to lead and motivate team members.
• 3. Strong negotiation skills with vendors and service providers.
• 4. Excellent customer service orientation for internal and external clients.
• 5. Ability to mediate conflicts and facilitate constructive conversations.
• 6. Experienced in building and maintaining professional relationships.
• 7. Skilled at collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• 8. Comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
• 9. Empathetic listener and persuasive speaker.
• 10. Proven track record of fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

Technical Proficiencies

Being tech-savvy helps you streamline office operations using various tools.

• 1. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• 2. Proficient with various office management software, including CRM and ERP systems.
• 3. Skilled in using project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp.
• 4. Knowledgeable in basic IT troubleshooting and office equipment maintenance.
• 5. Experienced with financial software for payroll and accounting, such as QuickBooks.
• 6. Familiarity with cloud-based file management systems like Google Drive and Dropbox.
• 7. Ability to type at a high speed with accuracy.
• 8. Knowledge of data analysis and presentation tools.
• 9. Experienced in managing and maintaining company databases.
• 10. Proficient in using telecommunication systems, including video conferencing and online meeting platforms.

Additional Information

In this section, you’ll find key details that can help distinguish your resume, such as language proficiency and volunteer experience, that many employers find valuable.

Being multilingual can give you an edge in today’s globalized economy. Here are example phrases demonstrating language skills:

• Fluent in Spanish and English
• Proficient in French, with four years of study
• Conversational Japanese language skills
• Business-level German proficiency
• Native Mandarin speaker, with advanced English
• Italian language proficiency, intermediate level
• Beginner level Korean with commitment to further learning
• Dutch: Professional working proficiency

Related: How to Include Language Skills on Your Resume (Examples)

Volunteer Work

Your volunteer experiences convey your commitment to community and your character. Examples:

• Coordinated local charity events for the Red Cross
• Volunteer tutor for children at McNair Elementary School
• Served meals at the City Homeless Shelter bi-weekly
• Organized annual fundraiser for the Cancer Awareness Foundation
• Participated in building homes with Habitat for Humanity
• Managed a team of volunteers for park restorations with Green Earth Society
• Served as a board member for the Downtown Art League
• Provided pro bono office management services to a local non-profit art gallery
• Led a local neighborhood clean-up initiative for three years
• Volunteer firefighter with over 200 hours of community service

Examples of Cover Letters

When drafting your cover letter, it’s important to tailor it to the specific office manager position you’re applying for. This means highlighting relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. For someone with no experience, you’ll want to emphasize your organizational abilities, communication skills, and any leadership roles you may have held, even in volunteer settings.

Example of Office Manager Cover Letter (No Experience)

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to express my interest in the Office Manager position at your company. Although I am entering the workforce for the first time, I bring a dedicated work ethic and a strong desire to learn. During my studies at (…) University, I honed my organizational skills by coordinating group projects and leading our student events committee. My proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and my ability to communicate effectively have prepared me to meet the challenges of this role. I am eager to bring my enthusiasm and dedication to your esteemed team and contribute to your company’s success.

Sincerely, Jane Smith

For those with experience, your cover letter should provide a snapshot of your career highlights. Emphasize your accomplishments as an office manager and how you’ve successfully enhanced office operations, improved systems, or led teams.

Example of Office Manager Cover Letter for a Candidate with Experience

I am writing to apply for the Office Manager position as advertised. With over 10 years of experience in office administration and management, I have a proven track record of streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and fostering a positive work environment. In my previous role at ABC Corp, I implemented a new document management system that increased departmental productivity by 20%. I also have extensive experience in budgeting, scheduling, and providing exemplary leadership to a team of administrative professionals. I’m confident in my ability to bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven leadership approach to your dynamic team.

Warm regards, John Smith

Education Section Examples

When pursuing an office manager position, your education is a vital element of your resume. You should highlight not just academic achievements but also relevant certifications and coursework that prepare you for the role.

Highest Degree

Your highest degree should be prominently displayed. If you have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, list the university’s name, the degree earned, and your graduation date. For example:

• University of ExampleCity Bachelor of Business Administration, May 2020

If your highest degree is an Associate’s Degree or a Master’s, the format remains the same:

• Sample Community College Associate of Applied Science in Business Management, May 2018

Certifications

Certifications can set you apart from other candidates. Include any that are relevant to the role of an office manager. For instance:

• Certified Manager Certification (CM) – Institute of Certified Professional Managers
• Project Management Professional (PMP) – Project Management Institute

Remember to list the certifying body and the year you received the certification. Related: How To List Certifications on a Resume (Examples)

Relevant Coursework

Describe coursework that directly relates to the skills and knowledge useful for an office manager. If you have completed courses in project management, human resources, or business law, mention these. Here’s an example of how you can format it:

• Project Management Principles: Gained skills in project planning and execution.
• Human Resources Management: Acquired knowledge in employee relations and benefits administration.
• Business Law: Learned about legal concepts applicable to business operations and contract management.

It’s important to show how each course has provided a foundation for the tasks you’ll handle as an office manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i highlight my office manager skills on my resume.

To highlight your office manager skills on your resume, focus on specific accomplishments in your past roles that showcase your ability to manage tasks, lead teams, or improve office operations. For example, mention a filing system you updated that increased efficiency, or a staff training program you implemented that boosted team productivity.

What should I include in an office manager resume if I lack experience?

If you lack experience, concentrate on transferable skills like communication, organization, and problem-solving. Detail volunteer work or internships where you managed schedules or coordinated events. Academic projects or coursework related to business management can also be beneficial to include.

Can you suggest a professional summary for an office manager resume?

A professional summary for an office manager resume might read like this: “Dedicated Office Manager with 5+ years of experience in streamlining office operations, leading administrative teams, and implementing cost-saving strategies to enhance efficiency. Proven track record of improving office workflow and fostering a positive work environment.”

What are some effective office manager resume objectives to consider?

Effective resume objectives for an office manager could include: “Seeking an Office Manager role to utilize my extensive organizational skills and background in office administration to improve operational efficiency,” or “Aiming to bring my strong attention to detail and deadline-driven work ethic to a dynamic team as an Office Manager.”

What key qualities should I emphasize to demonstrate I’m a good fit for an office manager position?

Emphasize key qualities such as strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and the ability to efficiently manage multiple tasks. Mention how your organizational abilities contributed to reducing overhead costs or how your proactive approach to problem-solving improved office systems.

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3 Correctional Officer Resume Examples Working in 2024 

Correctional Officer Resume

Entry level correctional officer resume, correctional officer no experience resume.

• Write Your Correctional Officer Resume

You’ve got nerves of steel and eyes all around your head. You’re not just a watchful guardian, but also a skilled mediator, allowing you to navigate the challenging environment of a correctional facility.

Your dedication and skills are tested daily, and you always come out on top. However, it’s hard to describe your vigilance in writing, so crafting a resume and writing an effective cover letter might be tricky.

It’s tricky, sure, but it can be done—we know it for a fact. Our correctional officer resume examples will guide you toward highlighting your strengths and finding a new job.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Ensure you settle for a simple and well-laid out format. You want recruiters to notice your most impactful experiences and achievements even when they’re chasing deadlines.

• The statement should add a layer of commitment and passion to the job by expressing your willingness to put to practice the lessons and skills you’ve acquired elsewhere.

• Roles such as unarmed security guard and personal bodyguard can be properly articulated to give you an advantage. Instances where you saved lives and thwarted security breaches should be included.

Related resume examples

• Police officer
• Security guard
• Security officer
• Firefighter

Adapt Your Correctional Officer Resume to Every Job

Working in law enforcement is no easy feat, but your skills help you face the difficulties on a daily basis. It’s not just about your sheer mental endurance and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations, although those traits definitely both play key parts in your success.

If you want to pick out the right job skills to impress recruiters, let the job description be your guide. Fill this section with skills that are highly specific to your job, be it record maintenance, legal procedures, or inmate tracking software.

Need some inspiration?

15 popular correctional officer skills

• JailTracker
• Behavioral Assessment
• Record Maintenance
• Pelco VideoXpert
• Crisis Intervention
• Offender360
• Inmate Supervision
• Safety Compliance
• TurnKey Corrections
• Weapon Safety
• Physical Fitness

Your correctional officer work experience bullet points

Thanks to your hard work as a correctional officer, both inmates and your colleagues get to enjoy a secure environment with minimum problems. Your achievements include de-escalating serious conflicts, catching contraband, and educating inmates, helping them successfully re-enter society when the time comes.

With accomplishments such as these, don’t minimize the impact of your work. Instead of a boring list of daily tasks, discuss the way your work affected the facility and the people who reside in it.

Don’t forget to throw in some helpful metrics to really underscore your value. This helps recruiters visualize the kind of work you’ve done as a correctional officer.

• Underscore constant development, both for inmates and fellow officers, by talking about metrics such as training programs you’ve hosted or reducing recidivism through educating inmates.
• Show that you know how to react in emergency situations by discussing leading response teams, resolving conflicts, and reporting incidents.
• Highlight your ability to prevent issues with metrics such as identifying risk factors, hosting emergency drills, or running safety inspections.
• Spotlight your excellent record keeping—you can do this by discussing things like managing inmate records, tracking their movement and habits, or reducing administrative errors.

See what we mean?

• Led regular security audits and assessments using Pelco surveillance systems, reducing security breaches by a 21% margin
• Effectively managed a daily average inmate population of 100+ inmates, ensuring their safety and security
• Monitored 50+ surveillance cameras simultaneously using Pelco VideoXpert to ensure the safety of a 100,000-square-foot facility
• Oversaw daily threat assessments and adapted security protocols to changing circumstances, resulting in a 38% reduction in security incidents

9 active verbs to start your correctional officer work experience bullet points

3 tips for writing a correctional officer resume with no relevant experience.

• Even if you’ve never worked in a correctional facility, there are plenty of jobs that help you hone skills that transfer well into officer work. This includes jobs like a security guard, bodyguard, or personal trainer. 
• As you well know, working as a correctional officer comes with certain physical demands, and if you can meet them, you’ve already got one foot in the door. Describe your fitness in your resume and cover letter to show that you’re ready to start immediately.
• Knowing how to work with people, be they inmates or fellow officers, is crucial in your role. Whether you’ve worked a job in retail or led a project in high school, mention these work experiences to show you’re a team player.

3 Tips for Writing a Correctional Officer Resume if This Isn’t Your First Job

• Your hard work can be life-changing for inmates, so don’t neglect the impact you’ve had in your past roles. Talk about how you’ve helped them with educational sessions, guidance, or even skillful mediation.
• Your experience speaks for itself, but just as you pay great attention to the ebbs and flows of daily life at your correctional facility, you should be mindful when you fill out your resume. Show potential employers that you care by updating your skills, work experience , and career objectives based on each job description.
• On top of the usual certificate of completing a correctional officer training program as well as CPR and First Aid certification, you may have received specialized training that could make you even more valuable. Talk about weapon training, diversity and inclusivity education, or supervisory roles to show your background.

Definitely—especially if you’re just starting your career as an entry-level correctional officer. Many jobs have some overlap and transferable skills, from working as a fitness trainer to hospitality or retail roles.

To bypass AI-powered applicant tracking systems (ATS), make sure that your resume includes keywords from the job listing as well as skills that are specific to the role. This includes things like stress tolerance, ethical judgment, and rule enforcement.

Writing a cover letter can be a good way to emphasize that you care about this particular job. Use it to emphasize your ability to work as a correctional officer, maintaining security at your facility at all times.