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7 Business Resume Examples That Got the Job in 2024

Best for senior and mid-level candidates

There’s plenty of room in our elegant resume template to add your professional experience while impressing recruiters with a sleek design.

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• Business Resumes
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How to Make a Business Resume

Some college degrees provide limited options, whereas pursuing a business degree opens endless doors. From overseeing the operations of a business to recruiting top talent, business occupations can be highly rewarding. 

Writing the perfect resume  and tinkering with a cover letter maker may seem like the least fun way to spend your time, but like your career choice, if you invest in some upfront work,  your resume will work hard for you, and the rewards can be limitless . 

We’ve done the heavy lifting, so you can spend more time hunting for that ideal job. 

Take advantage of our seven business resume examples and our proven writing tips that will set you up for success. Your resume, we’re sure, will stand apart from the competition, ushering you into your dream job in 2024.

Business Resume

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Why this resume works

• Your business resume can benefit from a  resume summary  if you’ve been in your industry for at least 10 years. While not required, it can showcase your work experience and any specializations you’ve acquired along the length of your career.  
• While you’re job hunting, verify that you’re qualified for the role as some positions require a master’s degree. An MBA will really help you stand out among other applicants on your business resume.
• We suggest you show how you met those goals using numbers and statistics, as they’re easy to read and speak volumes quickly.

Business Student Resume

• You already have a track record in increasing traffic, boosting brand visibility, and using analytics to grow brands. Leverage past success to propel your potential in your business student resume.

Experienced Business Analyst Resume

• It’s a good idea to include abilities that are mentioned in the  business job description  of the position you’re applying for (if you’re honestly skilled in those areas). Don’t fib, but don’t sell yourself short either!
• For example, if you’re skilled with SQL, try writing about the impact you made using SQL in a previous position.

Experienced Business Development Manager Resume

• Reverse-chronological formatting displays your most recent or current position at the top, which will likely be most similar to the position you’re seeking. 
• This format also shows the evolution of your career history naturally. Your latter work history may detail more basic duties and less responsibility, and you’ll want the job you’ve listed first to clearly showcase your advanced expertise. 
• Choose a template that’s both professional and eye-catching. 
• Be consistent with your  resume formatting . Headings, font, and even punctuation (or lack thereof) should be consistent. 

Business Administration Resume

• Display how you helped cut costs, increased productivity, automated processes for optimal performance, etc.

Business Management Resume

• Avoid personal pronouns, adjectives, or non-active verbs. Instead, start with strong verbs, such as “defined” and “beat.”
• Make your way over to our free  resume checking tool  for more on using active verbs, getting your grammar just right, and ensuring your resume’s spit-spot. 
• While optional, a well-written, concise couple of sentences highlighting your best self, coupled with a few impressive metrics, can be a slam dunk for an interview.
• Keep each bullet point’s content fresh and varied.

HR Business Partner Resume

• Many times, adjusting the spacing, margin size, or even rearranging the sections can do just the trick. 
• Accomplish this with a  resume career summary  if you boast at least 10 years in your field. It’ll set you apart from the rookies! You can leverage your summary to remind the employer that you want this position and are aiming to contribute to the rise of the company with any noteworthy specializations you have under your belt. 
• A final formatting tip—prominently display your contact information close to your name, so a busy employer can readily and easily contact you; don’t give them a reason to trash your resume.  

Related resume guides

• Business Development
• Operations manager

Stay tuned for a quick step-by-step guide on how to make your own business resume. Use this guide and a business resume template above to get your foot in the door. 

Choose a professional resume template that compliments the company’s tone. A business degree opens the door to a myriad of jobs, which range from casual to formal roles. As a business development manager in the healthcare industry, you might choose a more traditional resume template. On the other hand, if you plan to your use your business degree to be a project manager in the travel industry, a creative resume template could work well.

Within your resume’s contact header, add the business title you desire beneath your name. Get this information directly from the job description. For instance, a business development specialist might also be called a business development associate or business development representative. Adding this professional touch is one way to show the company you care about getting the details right.

If you have a master’s degree in business, list that first. Follow that with your bachelor’s. If you’re freshly graduated, consider adding relevant coursework, such as Principles of Operations Management or Business Finance, beneath your most recent education as well as your GPA if it’s above a 3.5 and any academic awards that are relevant to your degree.

Ask yourself how your work tangibly impacted a company or further developed its operations and processes. Did you identify gaps in reporting, which led you to oversee the development of more robust documentation? Did you experiment with pricing to improve customer lifetime value? Did you increase annual revenue through a referral program you created?

Your resume’s job description bullet points are a chance to share quantifiable business accomplishments rather than daily responsibilities. And your business cover letter is the perfect place to dive into the details of how you made those accomplishments happen.

Your business background means you could be skilled in communication, CRM, negotiation, employee onboarding, or even technical abilities like SQL, Python, or data analysis. It depends on the direction you’ve gone and the company’s job description that’s caught your attention. Try jotting down your skills. In a new column, jot down the skills mentioned in the job listing. Which ones are the same? Those are the business skills to include in your skills section.

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The Business Resume Guide: 10+ Samples & Examples for 2024

A business resume is an essential tool that can make or break a job seeker’s chances of landing their dream job. It serves as a reflection of their skills, qualifications, and experiences, which can convince potential employers that they are the right candidate for the job. Despite its significance, creating a business resume can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the workforce or changing careers.

The purpose of this article is to provide job seekers with a comprehensive guide to creating a compelling business resume. This article will explore various tips, tricks, and best practices to help job seekers craft a polished and professional business resume that stands out from the competition. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this guide is designed to cater to your specific needs and provide you with the tools to create a strong business resume.

The article aims to provide a broad overview of everything job seekers need to know about crafting an effective resume, from choosing the right format to highlighting their skills, experiences, and achievements. In addition to discussing industry standards and best practices, the article will also provide 10+ real-life examples of successful business resumes.

The Business Resume Guide aims to serve as a go-to resource for job seekers looking to create or improve their business resume. By the end of this article, readers will have a clear understanding of what makes a great business resume and the tools to create one that showcases their strengths and experiences effectively.

Formatting and Design

To make your resume stand out from the competition, it’s important to pay attention to formatting and design. This section covers three key elements to ensure your resume makes a lasting impression: selecting the right font, choosing the right template, and creating a visually appealing layout.

A. Selecting the Right Font

The font you choose can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your resume. When selecting a font, keep in mind that it should be easy to read, professional, and consistent throughout the entire document.

There are a few classic font choices that are universally accepted in the business world, such as Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri. However, if you want to stand out a bit more, consider using a font with a modern twist like Georgia, Helvetica, or Proxima Nova.

Regardless of the font you choose, ensure that it is no smaller than 11-point size and that the spacing is appropriate for easy reading.

B. Choosing the Right Template

The template you choose for your resume can have a significant impact on how it is perceived by recruiters and hiring managers. Templates can range from classic and conservative to modern and colorful, so it’s important to choose the right one based on the type of position you’re applying for and your personal style.

Consider using a template that reflects the industry you’re applying to, as some industries may favor certain designs or colors. For example, if you’re applying for a creative role, a template with a pop of color or unique design elements may be appropriate. However, if you’re applying for a more traditional role like accounting, a more conservative template may be favorable.

C. Creating a Visually Appealing Layout

Beyond selecting the right font and template, the overall layout of your resume plays a critical role in catching the eye of recruiters and hiring managers. A visually appealing layout should be easy to read, well-organized, and emphasize your key skills and experiences.

Consider breaking up blocks of text with bullet points or section headers to make it easier for the reader to scan. Utilize white space to ensure that the content is not too cluttered, and use a consistent color scheme and font throughout the document.

A visually appealing layout can make your resume stand out and increase your chances of landing an interview for your dream job.

Essential Elements of a Business Resume

A business resume is a document that highlights your professional accomplishments and showcases your skills and experience to potential employers. It’s important that your resume is well-organized and contains all the essential elements that recruiters and hiring managers expect to see. Here are the essential elements of a business resume:

A. Contact Information Your contact information should be listed at the top of your resume so that employers can quickly and easily get in touch with you. Make sure to include your full name, phone number, email address, and physical address. It’s also a good idea to list any relevant social media profiles or professional website.

B. Professional Summary Your professional summary is a brief statement that summarizes your experience, skills, and career goals. This section should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for and highlight why you’re the best candidate for the role.

C. Work Experience The work experience section of your resume should include a list of your previous jobs, along with details about your responsibilities and accomplishments in each role. Organize your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position.

D. Education List your educational background, including your degree(s), major(s), and any relevant coursework or certifications. If you don’t have a college degree, you can still include any relevant education or training you’ve completed.

E. Skills Your skills section should list the specific skills and knowledge you’ve acquired over the course of your career. Be sure to include both hard skills and soft skills, as both are important for employers to know about.

F. Achievements This section should highlight your most significant achievements in your previous roles. Quantify your accomplishments where possible, using numbers and statistics to demonstrate your impact on the business.

G. Certifications and Licenses If you hold any relevant certifications or licenses, be sure to list them in this section. This can help to demonstrate your expertise and qualifications for the job.

H. Volunteering and Extracurricular Activities Include any relevant volunteering or extracurricular activities you’ve participated in, as these can demonstrate important skills and qualities like leadership, teamwork, and communication.

In order to make sure your business resume is effective, it’s important to tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for. Customize your resume to highlight your most relevant skills and experience for each job, and make sure to proofread your resume carefully to avoid any errors or typos. With these essential elements, you’ll be well on your way to creating a winning business resume that can help you get the job you want.

Tailoring Your Business Resume

When it comes to creating a business resume, it’s important to tailor it to the specific job and company you’re applying to. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your resume stands out from the rest:

A. Researching the Company

Before you start crafting your resume, it’s important to do some research on the company you’re applying to. This will help you get a better understanding of their mission, values, and culture. You can often find this information on their website, social media pages, or through company reviews online.

B. Identifying Key Traits and Skills Required by the Job

Once you have a better understanding of the company, you can then start identifying the specific traits and skills they’re looking for in their ideal candidate. The job posting will often give you a good indication of what they’re looking for, but you can also do some research on the industry and position to get a better idea.

C. Highlighting your Relevant Experiences and Accomplishments

Finally, it’s important to tailor your resume to match the specific job and company you’re applying to. This means highlighting your relevant experiences and accomplishments that demonstrate the traits and skills they’re looking for. Use concrete examples and data to showcase your achievements and how they align with the company’s needs.

In a competitive job market, tailoring your resume can make all the difference. By doing your research and highlighting your relevant experiences and accomplishments, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job in the business world.

Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Business Resume

When it comes to writing a business resume, there are certain dos and don’ts that you must keep in mind. A well-written business resume can be the key to landing your dream job, so it’s important to get it right. In this section, we will discuss the common mistakes to avoid, best practices for writing a business resume and tips for staying on track.

A. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Typos and grammatical errors:  A business resume should be error-free. Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression on the hiring manager.

Being too generic:  Avoid creating a generic business resume. Generic language and bullet points will make you blend in with hundreds of other applicants.

Lack of focus:  Your business resume should be focused on your skills and experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Irrelevant information can make it hard for the hiring manager to understand your strengths.

Not using keywords:  Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) that scan resumes for specific keywords. Not using relevant keywords in your resume can lead to the resume being rejected by the ATS.

Listing responsibilities instead of accomplishments:  Instead of listing job responsibilities, focus on accomplishments. Highlight what you achieved in your previous role and how it added value to the company.

B. Best Practices for Writing a Business Resume

Tailor your resume for the job:  Customize your business resume to fit the specific job requirements. This will show the hiring manager that you have the necessary skills for the role.

Use bullet points:  Use bullet points to make your resume easy to read. Be specific and concise with each bullet point.

Quantify your achievements:  Use numbers to quantify your achievements. For example, instead of saying you increased sales, say you increased sales by 20%.

Use action verbs:  Begin each bullet point with an action verb. Action verbs make your resume more engaging and show what you are capable of.

Keep it to one page:  A business resume should be no longer than one page. Keep it concise and to the point.

C. Tips for Staying on Track

Create a strong opening statement:  The opening statement is the first thing the hiring manager will read. Create a strong statement that will grab their attention.

Stay consistent:  Use the same format throughout your business resume. This will make it easy for the hiring manager to read and understand.

Proofread:  Proofread your business resume multiple times before submitting it. Ask a friend or family member to proofread it as well.

Focus on results:  Highlight your results and how they contributed to the company’s success. This will show the hiring manager what you can bring to their company.

Dos and Don’ts for Formatting a Business Resume

When it comes to formatting a business resume, there are a few dos and don’ts that can help ensure your document looks professional and polished. In this section, we’ll cover some common formatting errors to avoid, best practices for formatting your resume, and tips for keeping your format consistent.

A. Avoiding Common Formatting Errors

One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make when formatting their resumes is using inconsistent fonts and formatting. To avoid this common error:

• Use one font throughout your resume. It’s best to choose a simple, easy-to-read font like Arial or Times New Roman.
• Keep your font size consistent. Use a font size between 10 and 12 points for the body of your resume and a slightly larger size for headings.
• Use bold, italics, and underlining sparingly. Only use these formatting options to highlight important information and make it stand out.

Another common formatting error is using too much white space or leaving too little white space. To strike a balance:

• Use margins of at least 0.5 inches on all sides of your resume.
• Use bullet points to break up large blocks of text.
• Use headings to organize your content and make it easier to read.

Finally, be sure to save your resume as a PDF file so that your formatting stays intact when you send it to potential employers. Word documents can sometimes be altered and lose their original formatting.

B. Best Practices for Formatting a Business Resume

Now that you know what formatting errors to avoid, let’s talk about some best practices for formatting a business resume:

• Use a professional email address. If your email address is quirky or inappropriate, potential employers might not take you seriously.
• Include a professional summary or objective statement at the beginning of your resume. This should be a brief, compelling statement that showcases your skills and experience.
• List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job.
• Use measurable achievements to demonstrate your accomplishments at each job. For example, instead of saying “increased sales,” say “increased sales by 15% in Q1 2021.”
• Use keywords from job postings in your resume. This can help your resume get past applicant tracking systems (ATS) and into the hands of human hiring managers.
• Keep your resume to one or two pages. Unless you have a lot of relevant experience, you don’t need a longer resume.

C. Tips for Keeping Your Format Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to formatting a business resume. Here are a few tips to help you keep your format consistent:

• Use a template. There are plenty of free resume templates available online that can help you ensure consistency in your formatting.
• Use headings consistently. For example, if you use “Work Experience” as a heading, use it consistently throughout your resume.
• Use the same formatting for each job listing.

The Business Resume Guide: 10+ Samples & Examples

Sample business resumes.

If you’re currently in the job market and embarking on a job hunt, having a great resume is key to making a good impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ve put together four sample business resumes that cover a range of positions and experience levels.

A. Entry-Level Business Resume Sample

If you’re just starting out in your business career, the entry-level business resume sample is for you. This resume emphasizes your education and any relevant internships or work experience you may have. It should highlight your skills and eagerness to learn and develop in your field.

B. Experienced Business Professional Resume Sample

For those who have a track record of success within their field, the experienced business professional resume sample is the way to go. This resume should demonstrate your previous business accomplishments, including any leadership positions you’ve held or projects you’ve managed. It should also showcase any specialized skills or certifications you’ve acquired throughout your career.

C. Business Development Manager Resume Sample

If your goal is to land a senior-level role in business development, the business development manager resume sample is the way to go. This resume should focus on your leadership experience, sales and marketing skills, and your ability to build and maintain relationships with clients.

D. Business Analyst Resume Sample

For those who are analytical and have a keen eye for detail, the business analyst resume sample is a great option. This resume should focus on your experience in analyzing data, problem-solving, and project management. It should also highlight any experience you have with software and technology tools relevant to your field.

No matter what stage of your career you’re in, the right business resume can make all the difference in landing your dream job. Use these sample resumes as a guide as you craft your own and tailor it to the specific job and company you’re applying to. Best of luck on your job hunt!

Business Resume Examples: Achievements and Accomplishments

When it comes to crafting an impressive business resume, highlighting your achievements and accomplishments can make all the difference. However, it’s important to do so in a way that effectively showcases your skills and experiences, without coming across as boastful or arrogant. Here are some tips for explaining your accomplishments on your business resume:

A. Explaining Your Accomplishments

First and foremost, it’s important to frame your accomplishments in a way that demonstrates their relevance to the job you’re applying for. Use specific examples and metrics to show how your actions contributed to specific positive outcomes, whether that be increased revenue, improved efficiency, or strengthened relationships with clients or partners.

Additionally, try to focus on accomplishments that demonstrate transferable skills, such as leadership, problem-solving, and communication. These are qualities that are highly in demand in the business world, and highlighting them can help set you apart from other candidates.

It’s also important to be concise and clear in your language, using active verbs to describe your actions and outcomes. Avoid buzzwords or vague terminology that might not be meaningful to the reader.

B. Examples of Accomplishments to Include on Your Business Resume

When it comes to specific examples of accomplishments to include on your business resume, there are a few key areas to consider:

1. Revenue growth

If you’ve played a role in increasing revenue for a previous employer, be sure to highlight this on your resume. This could include spearheading a successful marketing campaign, increasing sales through strategic partnerships or negotiations, or finding innovative ways to cut costs.

Example: “Led a team that launched a targeted email campaign resulting in 20% increase in revenue within six months.”

2. Process optimization

Streamlining processes and improving efficiency can have a significant impact on a company’s bottom line. If you’ve played a role in identifying and implementing process improvements, be sure to highlight this on your resume.

Example: “Developed and implemented a new project management system resulting in a 30% decrease in project timelines and a 15% increase in team productivity.”

3. Leadership and team building

Demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a team by showcasing accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership skills. This could include successfully managing a team through a challenging project, mentoring and developing team members, or orchestrating successful team-building activities.

Example: “Led a cross-functional team of 10 in the successful launch of a new product line, resulting in $1M in sales within the first year.”

4. Client or partner relationships

Strong relationships with clients and partners are essential to success in many business roles. If you’ve played a role in building and managing relationships with key stakeholders, be sure to highlight this on your resume.

Example: “Negotiated and secured a multi-year contract with a key client, resulting in a 25% increase in annual revenue.

Business Resume Examples: Skills and Qualifications

When crafting your business resume, it’s important to highlight your skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the position you are applying for. In this section, we’ll discuss how to identify these skills and provide some examples to help you include them on your resume.

A. Identifying Your Skills and Qualifications

To identify your skills and qualifications, start by thoroughly reviewing the job description and requirements. Look for specific skills or qualifications that the employer is seeking, such as proficiency in certain software programs, experience managing teams or budgets, or a particular degree or certification.

Next, think about the skills and qualifications that you possess that align with those requirements. Make a list of these skills, along with any others that may be relevant to the position, such as strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, or leadership experience.

Remember to also consider transferable skills – those that may not be directly related to the job requirements, but that showcase your abilities in areas such as time management, organization, or adaptability.

B. Examples of Skills and Qualifications to Include on Your Business Resume

Here are some examples of skills and qualifications that you may want to include on your business resume, along with the types of positions or industries where they may be particularly relevant:

Project management: This skill is valuable in a wide range of business roles, from marketing and advertising to finance and operations. Be sure to highlight your experience managing projects, including your ability to coordinate timelines, resources, and stakeholders.

Data analysis: Many business positions require the ability to work with data to inform decision-making. If you have experience analyzing data using tools such as Excel or SQL, be sure to list this skill on your resume.

Customer service: If you are applying for a sales or client-facing role, highlighting your ability to provide excellent customer service can set you apart from other candidates. Examples may include experience handling customer complaints, responding to inquiries, or maintaining client relationships.

Leadership: Whether you are applying to manage a team or simply to demonstrate your potential as a future leader, highlighting your leadership experience is important. Examples may include managing a project team, leading a group or committee, or mentoring others.

Industry-specific knowledge: Depending on the industry or niche you are applying for, specialized knowledge may be critical to your success in the role. For example, a candidate for a healthcare administration position may want to highlight their knowledge of HIPAA regulations, while someone applying for a position in tech may want to showcase their understanding of programming languages.

Remember, the key is to identify the skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the position and industry, and to highlight them in a way that sets you apart from other candidates. With the right combination of skills and experience, you can create a powerful business resume that demonstrates why you are the best fit for the job.

Cover Letters for Business Resumes

A. introduction to cover letters.

A cover letter is a formal letter attached to a resume that serves as an introduction of a job applicant to a potential employer. It is an essential tool for job seekers as it provides a platform to highlight their qualifications and interest in a particular job. A cover letter should be concise, well-written, and tailored to the job description.

B. The Essential Elements of a Good Cover Letter

A good cover letter should consist of the following essential elements:

1. Introduction

The introduction should be captivating and should create a positive first impression. It is essential to start with a brief statement about the job you are applying for and why you are the best fit for the position.

The body should explain your qualifications and relevant experiences. It is important to highlight your skills and achievements that fit the job description. You may also explain how your experiences can contribute to the growth of the company.

In the closing, you should express your interest in the company and the job position. You may also request an interview or meeting to discuss your qualifications further.

C. Sample Cover Letters for Business Resumes

To help you create an effective cover letter, here are some sample cover letters for business resumes:

• Cover Letter for Business Development Manager
• Cover Letter for Financial Analyst
• Cover Letter for Marketing Manager
• Cover Letter for Sales Executive
• Cover Letter for Human Resources Manager

These sample cover letters demonstrate how to incorporate the essential elements of a good cover letter while tailoring it to each job description. Remember to also customize each cover letter to the company and its culture.

A well-crafted cover letter can greatly improve your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. It is an opportunity to showcase your qualifications and interest in a particular job. Use the tips provided and the sample cover letters to create a compelling cover letter that best represents you and your qualifications.

Proofreading and Editing Your Business Resume

As you work on creating a strong business resume that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements, it’s important to remember that even the smallest mistake can make a big difference in how you’re perceived by potential employers. To help you avoid common typos and errors, and make sure your resume is polished and professional, here are some tips for proofreading and editing your business resume.

A. Common Typos and Errors to Watch Out For

Spelling mistakes: Even one spelling mistake can undermine your credibility and attention to detail. Double-check the spelling of words, especially industry-specific terms and job titles.

Grammatical errors: Poor grammar can also harm your professional image. Pay special attention to subject-verb agreement, verb tenses, and punctuation.

Formatting inconsistencies: Consistency in formatting, font sizes, and bullet-point styles will help give your resume a polished and professional look.

Incorrect contact information: Make sure your phone number, email address, and other contact information are accurate and up-to-date.

False or misleading information: Never include false or misleading information on your resume. This can be grounds for disqualification or dismissal later in the hiring process.

B. Best Practices for Proofreading and Editing Your Business Resume

Take a break before proofreading: To catch mistakes, take a break from your resume before proofreading. Come back to it with fresh eyes and a clear head.

Use a checklist: Create a checklist of common mistakes that you’re prone to make, and go through each item on the checklist to ensure you’ve addressed it in your resume.

Read your resume out loud: By reading your resume out loud, you’ll be able to catch errors that might not be apparent when reading silently.

Have someone else review it: Ask a friend, family member, or colleague to review your resume. A fresh set of eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed.

Look for consistency and clarity: Make sure your resume is consistent in formatting, tone, and voice. Also, ensure that your resume is easy to read, with clear and concise language that effectively communicates your skills and accomplishments.

Proofreading and editing your business resume is a crucial step in creating a strong professional image and demonstrating attention to detail. By avoiding common typos and errors and following best practices, you can ensure that your resume is polished, professional, and reflects your qualifications and achievements.

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US Resume (Format, Tips & Examples for 2024)

If you’re applying for a job in the US, you’ll need to submit a resume that meets US application standards.

As a foreigner, though, you may have little to no idea what a US resume is and how you should write one to land the job. 

Even as an American, you might need to dust off your knowledge on the US resume. 

Unless you’re a resume expert, you probably don’t know what’s the best format for a US resume, or what’s the correct page length. 

But worry not! This article is here to teach you all there is to know about writing a convincing US resume.

Here’s what we’re going to cover: 

• US Resume Specifics 

Step-By-Step Guide to Build Your US Resume

• Formatting Your US Resume

What NOT To Include in Your US Resume

Ready? Let’s dive in! 

US Resume Specifics

There are a few specific things you need to know when it comes to the US resumes, but let’s start off with the most important: 

The term US resume is equivalent to the European CV. 

Both are one-page documents that summarize your relevant experiences, tailored for a specific job you’re applying for.

Additionally: 

• The common length of a US resume is between 1-3 pages. If you are a recent graduate or someone with less than 5 years of relevant work experience, a one-page resume is enough, whereas if you are a seasoned professional, you can go for 2. In rare cases, you can do 3, but that’s rarely encouraged. 
• Standard American English is preferred. For the most part, this means dropping those extra “U”s that UK English uses (e.g. “color” instead of “colour”). 
• Leave out personal information , such as marital status, birthday, gender, photo, number of children, age, religion, personal identification numbers, and ethnicity/country of origin, as they can be grounds for discrimination.
• Don’t include references in your US resume unless the employer specifically asks you to.
• Don’t list English as a foreign language in your US resume (unless English isn’t your foreign language).
• Don’t list your GPA, SAT, TOEFL, or ACT scores on your US resume unless otherwise stated. More often than not, the recruiter doesn't care.  

Now that you know the specifics of a US resume, it’s time to start writing one. 

Not sure where to start? 

Below is a step-by-step guide to building the perfect US resume, starting with: 

#1. Choose the Right Format 

The most popular US resume format is the chronological format (also known as the reverse-chronological format). 

This format is widely preferred by recruiters, and for a good reason—it puts the focus on your work experience by starting with your most recent job and making your way back. 

The reverse-chronological format looks like this:

99% of the time, we recommend using the reverse-chronological resume format, as both US and international recruiters are used to it.

Want to learn more about different resume formats ? Check out our article.

#2. Follow These Formatting Tips

Making sure your US resume looks professional and is reader-friendly is just as important as what it contains. 

Here are some essential formatting tips to perfect your US resume: 

• Make sure your US resume is divided into clear, separate sections. 
• Use 1-1.15 line spacing.
• Keep your US resume length between 1-2 pages. Only go for a third page if you are a seasoned professional with plenty of relevant work experience.
• Use a professional but easy-to-read resume font . 
• Opt for ample white space to make your resume easier on the eye.
• Use the "US Letter" size (8.5 x 11 inches) when saving your PDF (instead of A4). In Novorésumé's editor , for example, you can switch this from "Layout" in the top menu. 

...Or Use a Resume Template 

No matter what format you choose, using a standard text editor like MS Word to create your US resume will be a pain. 

You have to choose the right font, adjust the margins, order your sections the right way, and make sure the end result looks good & easy to follow…

All this can take hours of your time before you can even start filling your resume with content!

Want to skip all the hustle?  

Use a resume builder. With just one click, you can choose out of 8+ resume templates and start building your resume instantly!

Our resume builder is fast, easy, and most importantly, the end result looks absolutely stunning.

See for yourself! Here's an example of our resumes saved in the US Letter format: 

Choose one of these templates and tailor it to your needs! 

#2. List Your Contact Information 

Once you’ve picked the resume format (or template), it’s time to start filling in the contents.

The first thing on your US resume should be your contact information , which includes:

• Name and surname
• Phone number (US phone number, that is)
• Address (City and State)

Optionally, you can also include links to a personal website, online portfolio, or even LinkedIn profile, but make sure to check if they are up to date and present you in the best light.

#3. Express Yourself in Your Resume Profile

Your resume profile is a short, introductory paragraph of your career or your professional goals. 

Depending on how it’s written, a resume profile is also known as either a resume summary or objective .

• Resume Summary , or a 2-3 sentence summary of your career.
• Resume Objective , or your motivation for getting into a new field (the goal of your resume, if you wish).

If you’re a seasoned professional with several years of experience, you should use a resume summary to highlight your experience and achievements. 

On the other hand, if you’re at the start of your career or if you’re changing industries, opt for a resume objective , as it’s less about work experience and more about skills or goals.

Your resume profile must be brief and to the point. Preferably, it should be between 2-3 sentences and urge the hiring manager to read the rest of your resume. 

Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary: 

• “Marketing manager with 4+ years of experience in a corporate environment. Good eye for design, with experience in creating marketing materials with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Canva. Intermediate copywriting skills, having worked on the company website, flyers, and several other content pieces.”

#4. Add Your Work Experience 

Unless you’re a recent graduate, your work experience section is the most important part of your resume, as it shows your past accomplishments and responsibilities. 

This section commonly includes the following: 

• Job Title/Position , so that the recruiter scanning your application knows right away you have the relevant experience for the job. 
• Company name and location . In some cases, especially if your previous employer isn’t as well-known, you may also want to add a brief company description. 
• Dates employed in the mm/yyyy format. 
• Accomplishments and responsibilities , which make up the core of each work entry. Depending on your field and years of experience, you want to list either responsibilities or achievements, in bullet points. 

Here’s a concrete example: 

Now there’s one thing to list your work experience and an entirely different thing to write a work experience section that’ll help you stand out from a pool of hundreds of applicants.

Here are a few tips to achieve the latter:

• List your achievements when possible and use action words to mention your responsibilities. 
• When describing your achievements or responsibilities, follow this formula : “accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z]” (or, start with a verb, numerically measure what you accomplished, provide a baseline for comparison, and detail what you did to achieve your goal.)
• Add 4-6 bullet points for your most recent position and fewer as you go back in time.
• Even if you’re a senior professional with many years of experience, don’t go back further than 15 years. The recruiter doesn’t care what you’ve been up to so long ago.
• Tailor your resume to the job description. Read the job ad you’re applying for and identify the top experiences or skills listed. Then, make sure that your US resume includes the ones you’re qualified for.

#5. Include Your Education

Your education comes underneath the work experience section in your US resume.

Here are the essentials of how this section needs to be formatted and what to include there:

• Program Name. E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration”
• University Name. E.g.: “Penn State University”
• Years Attended. E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012”

Here’s how this looks like in practice:

B.A. in Business Administration

NYC State University

08/2016 - 05/2019

• Magna Cum Laude
• Minor in Finance 

Finally, here are some tips and tricks on how to get this section done right:

• If you lack work experience, place your education section right on top of your resume. This way, you’ll put more emphasis on your academic background than your lack of experience.
• Add courses that are relevant to the industry you are applying to in case you lack work experience (e.g. Design & Layout, for a Graphic Designer position).
• Mention your latest educational entry on top. E.g. Master’s Degree goes on top of a B.A. which goes on top of your high school degree. 
• If you have a university degree, don’t mention your high school degree at all. 

#6. Emphasize Your Strengths in Your Skills Section

Another staple of a US resume is the skills section. This includes all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job. 

There are two types of skills you want to include: 

• Hard skills , or measurable abilities. Here is where you include skills like Photoshop or Microsoft Office. 
• Soft skills , or personal skills. They include a combination of people skills, communication skills , interpersonal skills , career attributes, etc. 

Keep in mind, though, that a strong skills section doesn’t consist of every skill you ever acquired.

The recruiter doesn’t care about your skills in Photoshop if you’re applying for a job as an accountant.

Rather, they specifically care about the skills that’ll make you a top-performer at the job you’re applying for.

So, go through the job ad you’re applying for and pinpoint the exact skills that are required for the role.

Then, make sure that your US resume mentions the same skills (as long as you possess the skills, of course).

Additionally, make sure to include both soft skills and hard skills into your skills section, as recruiters value applicants we have some of both.    

For example:

#7. Include These Additional Sections

Already included all the sections we’ve mentioned so far but still have some space in your US resume?

You can include some of these optional sections: 

• Internships
• Hobbies and interests
• Volunteer experience
• Certifications and awards
• Publications

Keep in mind that these sections aren’t as important as the ones we’ve covered before. You’re not going to get hired just because you’re into creative writing as a hobby.

That said, these sections do help the recruiter pick between equally capable candidates.

Meaning, someone with work and volunteering experience is more likely to get hired than someone who only has work experience to show for.  

Equally important to remember are all the things you should NOT include in your US resume:

• Personal information, such as marital status, birthday, gender, photo, number of children, age, religion, personal identification numbers, and ethnicity/country of origin, because they can be grounds for discrimination. 
• Authorization to work in the US, which includes your Social Security Number or immigrant status. By law, only after making you an offer can employers ask if you’re eligible to work in the US. 
• References. Including references on a US resume is not standard practice. If the employer is interested, they will ask for them. 

Key Takeaways 

If you’re applying for a job in the US, you’ll need to submit a US resume. Here are the main points this article covered on the topic: 

• The US resume is equivalent to the European CV.
• The common length of a US resume is 1-2 pages and standard American English is preferred over British English. 
• The most popular format for a US resume is the chronological format. 
• Format your US resume to 1-1.15 line spacing and clear and separate sections, as well as use professional and readable fonts. 
• Don’t include in your US resume: personal information such as your age, ethnicity, or gender, authorization to work in the US, and references. 

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Business: Approved Resume Format

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Does Your Resume Follow the G. Brint Ryan College of Business Resume Standard?

The Career Resource Center, with extensive feedback from employers and in collaboration with the Ryan College of Business faculty, has established a resume standard that we strongly advise students to utilize in the application process for internships and full-time jobs. We regularly receive strong, positive feedback from employers who hire our students about the professional format and readability of our standard.  The resume standard is also designed to take advantage of the “key-word” driven approaches that are extensively used by both humans and machine bots to data mine their applicant pools. We strongly recommend that students adhere to this standard.

Following is the Resume Standard for all Majors with the exception of Accounting*

Is the resume in the approved G. Brint Ryan College of Business format? Is resume one page? Does resume contain all applicable sections in proper order? Is the resume formatted in 10-12 point either Times New Roman or Arial font? Is all content correctly aligned according to format, dates are formatted and properly aligned?

Is name bold and font size 14 or higher? Does resume list your city and state, phone number, and a professional/student email? Does resume include customized LinkedIn URL? (LinkedIn is optional but highly recommended)

Professional Profile

Does resume contain a strong professional profile that highlights personal and professional strengths and (~3 sentences)? Does Professional Profile include the following sentence: “Seeking a ____ positions starting ____?” Have personal pronouns been eliminated from resume?

Core Competencies

Does resume list at least 3 core competencies (soft skills) in the correct format using vertical | separator?

Technical Skills

Does resume list at least 2-3 technical skills in the correct format using vertical | separator?

Optional:  Language Skills

Does resume list language skills (if applicable) as a separate section following technical skills?

Does resume include official degree name (Bachelor not Bachelors) and major? Is resume formatted: Name of Institution, city and state? Does resume only include institutions that you have a degree from? Are dates in reverse chronological order? Is GPA listed if 3.0 or higher?

Professional Experience

Preferred Format is Chronological : Professional experience includes company, job title, and dates in reverse chronological order. Include 2-3 strong bullet points describing job responsibilities under each job. Do bullets begin with action verbs followed by “what + why” format? Have personal pronouns been eliminated? Alternate Format is Functional: 2-3 professional skills are listed and include 2-3 STRONG examples of times you have used that skill. The bullets should support the skill. Employment history includes position title, company name, city, state.

Leadership, Campus and Community Involvement

Does Leadership and Involvement include position, organization, and dates? No high school experience except for freshman

Examples – Approved Resume Format for G. Brint Ryan College of Business

G. Brint Ryan College of Business APPROVED Resume Format (all majors EXCEPT Accounting)

The APPROVED resume format is specifically designed for RCOB students. It’s major focus is to help students build a personal algorithm that will be a close match for employer search algorithms and result in more requests for students to interview. The format is Applicant Tracking System Parsable which is important because online submissions are often read by machines and this format is specifically designed to be “read” by automated systems and passed along to the actual recruiter. The RCOB Career Center staff strongly recommend that students use this format (unless an Accounting major. See the information below for the Accounting Resume format).

*G. Brint Ryan College of Business APPROVED Resume Format (Accounting majors)

• BS/MS Accounting Resume Format
• BBA Accounting Resume Format

This resume format is REQUIRED by the UNT Accounting program for all Accounting majors.  This is the format that recruiters have approved and expect from UNT applicants.

Please consult with a staff member from the Career Resource Center before using this format.

• After drafting a resume, we strongly recommend setting up a time to talk with a Career Resource Center staff member to work on improvements. In addition, you can use the Resume Review Request Form to submit your resume for review. In most cases, the review will be completed within 3 business days except for University holidays.

Upload your resume in the approved format to Handshake using the instructions found here .

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