Expert Guide to Crafting a Modern and Professional Resume

Resumes are crucial when applying for jobs. A good, up-to-date resume can boost your chances of getting interviews. Knowing how to create a modern resume and choosing the right format can make your resume more impactful. This article covers how to write a modern resume, explores various layouts you can use, and gives tips to help you craft your own.

How to write a modern resume

Here are ten simple steps to help you write a modern resume that highlights your skills, flexibility, and knowledge:

1. Choose the Right Format
   • Reverse Chronological: Best for those with lots of experience. Lists jobs and education starting with the most recent.
   • Functional: Focuses on skills and achievements before work history. Good for those with less experience or career gaps.
   • Combination: Blends both formats. Ideal for those with significant work experience or career changes.
2. Add Header and Contact Information

Include your name, professional email, and location. Add social media profiles or a website if they’re relevant and professional.

3. Write a Professional Summary

A short introduction (2-3 sentences) highlighting your experience, achievements, and career goals to grab the recruiter’s attention.

4. Add Education Details

List your education in reverse chronological order with the program name, school, and dates. Include achievements if relevant. Put this first if you’re a recent graduate.

5. Add Your Experiences

Detail your work history in reverse chronological order. Include job title, company name, responsibilities, achievements, and dates. Use numbers to quantify your successes (e.g., “increased sales by 30%”).

6. Include a Skills Section

List hard skills (measurable, like software knowledge) and soft skills (character traits, like time management). For each skill, indicate your level of proficiency.

7. Add Memberships and Associations

Mention any professional groups you belong to that are relevant to the job. This can show your network and involvement in your field.

8. Include Certifications and Awards

List any certificates or awards that are relevant to the job. This shows your dedication and expertise.

9. List Your Languages

If you speak multiple languages, include this information. Indicate your proficiency level (basic, intermediate, advanced, native).

10. Add Hobbies and Interests

Share a bit about your personal interests to show you’re a well-rounded person. By doing this, you’ll be more memorable and stick out.

Read Similar – Modern Resume Crafting Tips for 2024: Dos and Don’ts

How to pick your resume’s ideal layout

The following suggestions can help you format your resume:

1. Keep It One to Two Pages

Recruiters have many resumes to review, so keep yours short and to the point. One to two pages is ideal for making your skills and qualifications easy to scan.

2. Have Clear Sections

Make your resume easy to read by using distinct categories. Use clear headers for each section to keep the layout organized and modern.

3. Use a Simple Font

Choose an easy-to-read font. Use size 11 or 12 pt. for the body text and 14 or 16 pt. for headers. Mixing fonts for headers and body text can work as long as both are simple and readable.

4. Add a Bit of Color

Adding some color to your CV can help it stand out. Use a color palette with plenty of white space and dark text for contrast and readability.

5. Save as a PDF

Send your resume as a PDF to preserve its layout and design. This ensures that your information remains intact and unchanged. Use PDF format unless instructed otherwise.

Tips to help you write an outstanding modern resume

The following advice should be kept in mind while you draft your resume:

1. Customize Your Resume to the Job

Tailor your resume to each job you apply for to make yourself stand out and appear more relevant and qualified for the position.

2. Make Your Contact Information Professional

Use your first and last name in a formal email address. Avoid addresses like “ava258games@email.com.” Ensure any linked social media pages or websites are professional.

3. List Relevant Skills

Include as many relevant skills as possible to show your wide range of abilities and readiness for the job’s responsibilities.

4. Use Color to Highlight Sections

Choose a layout with some color to make your resume easy to read and appealing. Make sure the color scheme is professional and not overpowering.

5. Use Keywords for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Include keywords from the job description throughout your resume. This helps you pass the initial screening if the employer uses an ATS to filter applications.