What To Include on a Resume: Key Elements, Tips, and Examples

 

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Crafting a compelling resume is one of the most important steps in your job search. A well-structured resume not only highlights your qualifications but also grabs the attention of hiring managers. To help you create a resume that stands out, here’s a breakdown of what to include on a resume, along with tips and examples for each section.

1. Professional Header

Your resume should start with a clear and professional header. This section includes your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile or portfolio link (if applicable). Make sure your contact information is up-to-date and professional.

Example:
John Doe
(123) 456-7890 | johndoe@email.com | linkedin.com/in/johndoe

Tip: Avoid using unprofessional email addresses. Create a simple email like firstname.lastname@email.com.

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2. Professional Summary

A professional summary is a brief statement (2–3 sentences) that highlights your key qualifications, experience, and career goals. It’s your chance to make a strong first impression and show employers why you’re the perfect fit for the role.

Example: "Results-driven marketing professional with 5+ years of experience in digital marketing, SEO, and content strategy. Proven track record of increasing website traffic by 40% and improving conversion rates. Passionate about leveraging data-driven insights to create impactful marketing campaigns."

Tip: Tailor your summary to the specific job you’re applying for, emphasizing the skills and experience most relevant to the role.

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3. Education

Your education section should include your degree(s), the name of the institution, and your graduation date. If you’re a recent graduate, you can also add relevant coursework, honors, or GPA (if it’s strong).

Example:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
XYZ University, Graduated May 2022
Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Algorithms, Software Engineering

Tip: If you have extensive work experience, keep this section concise and place it after your professional experience.

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4. Skills

The skills section is where you showcase your abilities that align with the job requirements. Include a mix of hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (interpersonal traits).

Example:

• Hard Skills: Python, SQL, Data Analysis, Project Management
• Soft Skills: Communication, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Time Management

Tip: Use keywords from the job description to ensure your resume passes applicant tracking systems (ATS).

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5. Certifications

Certifications can set you apart from other candidates, especially in fields like IT, healthcare, or project management. List any relevant certifications, including the issuing organization and date earned.

Example:
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) – Scrum Alliance, 2023
Google Analytics Certified – Google, 2022

Tip: Only include certifications that are relevant to the job or demonstrate additional expertise.

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6. Additional Accomplishments

This section is optional but can be a great way to highlight achievements that don’t fit elsewhere on your resume. Include awards, publications, volunteer work, or side projects that showcase your skills and dedication.

Example:

• Published article on “The Future of AI in Marketing” in Tech Insights Magazine (2023)
• Volunteer Mentor at Code for Kids, teaching coding basics to underprivileged youth

Tip: Focus on accomplishments that demonstrate transferable skills or align with the job you’re applying for.

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Final Tips for a Standout Resume

• Keep It Concise: Aim for a one-page resume if you’re early in your career, or two pages if you have extensive experience.
• Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” “led,” or “optimized.”
• Proofread: Double-check for spelling and grammar errors to ensure your resume is polished and professional.

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By including these key elements on your resume, you’ll create a document that effectively showcases your qualifications and catches the attention of hiring managers. Use the tips and examples above to craft a resume that helps you land your dream job!