What is a resume for a job?
Resume definition:
A resume is a document that job seekers use to describe their professional and educational backgrounds to potential employers. It is a business document that an applicant creates to catalog the skills, experience and education they possess that make them qualified for a position. A resume should be brief — two pages maximum.
Often, a resume is sent along with a cover letter, another business document which allows a job seeker to highlight the most critical elements of their resume.
Resumes are frequently used by job seekers in the United States but a small number of applicants applying in a handful of fields might use a curriculum vitae (CV), instead. To learn more about whether you should be using a CV, go to our guide, CV vs. Resume: Differences Between the Two.
Do I need a resume?
The simple answer is yes. Having a resume is the main tool in every job seekers toolbox and is a requirement for applying to nearly every open job. Still, many job seekers wonder if they really need a resume.
Here are three reasons why you need a resume:
- Outlines your most impressive credentials. A resume allows you to highlight the most relevant parts of your background for employers. By adding the right keywords, you can show a hiring manager instantly that you are qualified for the job.
- Shows an employer what you’ll bring to the table. Your resume is about more than showcasing your skills and experience. Recruiters hire to solve problems and a great resume will communicate that you have the skills to get the job done.
- Grabs a recruiters attention. Recruiters sometimes receive hundreds of applications for a single job opening. Learning how to write a strong resume will allow them to see at-a-glance that you are the right person for the role and will set you apart from the competition.
Additional resume features to consider
While having the right content in your resume is key, there are two other factors to consider when learning how to make a resume. For more help, use our Resume Builder, which will help you create a professional resume with all the right features and content.
How to select the right resume format
How to format a resume is a topic that often confuses job seekers but it’s actually quite simple. There are three main resume formats: chronological, functional and combination. The one you choose will largely depend on your level of work experience. Here’s how to decide which resume format is right for you:
Use a chronological resume format if:
- You have several years of relevant work experience.
- You can show steady job advancement.
- You have a solid employment history.
- Your skills match the job description closely.
Use a functional resume format if:
- You have gaps in your employment due to layoffs or other issues.
- You are changing careers and need to rely on transferable skills.
- You have very little or no work experience.
- You are reentering the workforce after an extended period.
Use a combination resume format if:
- You have one to two years of relevant work experience.
- You have sought-after skills you want to showcase.
- You have a steady work history with no major gaps.
Choose an appropriate resume template
The way your resume looks is as important as its content. If your resume design is badly formatted and difficult to read, a recruiter will throw in the towel and stop reading, throwing your resume right into the no pile.
Using a professionally-designed resume template can help increase your chances of getting noticed. Start by picking a design that is aligned with your industry. For example, if you are applying for a role in design or advertising, consider a colorful, creative resume template. For roles in conservative fields, like finance or law, look for a more classic resume template to match the tone of the industry.
Finally, if you are applying for roles in medicine, academia or the sciences, consider using a CV template instead.
Hailey Brophy is an experienced writer with a diverse career in digital publication. She is passionate about using her unique skills and experiences to help job seekers find the information that they need to succeed.
