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The Ultimate Guide to Crafting a Killer Resume

In today’s highly competitive job market, your resume is not just a document – it’s your billboard. It’s the first and often the only chance to make a compelling impression on a potential employer. With hiring managers inundated with applications, a well-crafted resume can be the key to standing out. 

Consider this: a typical corporate job posting receives approximately 250 resumes, but the average hiring manager spends only about 6 seconds looking at each resume before deciding if the candidate is a fit. This highlights the crucial importance of a killer resume – it’s not just about listing your experiences and skills but crafting a narrative that grabs attention in those critical first seconds.

Section 1: Understanding the Basics

What is a resume.

• Definition and Purpose: A resume is a concise document that summarizes your education, skills, qualifications, and experiences for a prospective employer. It’s designed to provide a snapshot of your professional journey and to convince employers that you’re qualified and worth interviewing.
• Difference Between a Resume and a CV: While often used interchangeably in some countries, in others, a resume and a Curriculum Vitae (CV) are distinctly different. A resume is typically a one-to-two-page summary tailored for a specific job. In contrast, a CV is a longer, more detailed synopsis that lists your entire career and educational history.

The Importance of a Good Resume

• Impact in Job Hunting: A good resume is your lifeline in a sea of candidates. It can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed and ultimately landing an interview. It’s more than a formality; it’s a tool to market yourself.
• Role in Personal Branding: Your resume is a key part of your brand. It reflects who you are, your professional history, and your ambitions. A well-crafted resume aligns your skills and experiences with your career goals and communicates your brand to potential employers.

Section 2: Preparing to Write Your Resume

Laying the groundwork is crucial before diving into the mechanics of resume writing. This preparation stage is often overlooked, but it differentiates between a generic resume and one that leaps off the page.

Self-Assessment

• Identifying Your Skills, Accomplishments, and Experiences: Start by taking inventory of your professional life. List your skills, noting which ones you excel at. Reflect on your accomplishments, particularly those where you made a measurable impact. Don’t just think about your job titles; consider your roles and the projects you led or contributed to. This process is about understanding and appreciating the full scope of your professional journey.
• Tailoring Your Resume for the Job You Want: Your resume should not be a one-size-fits-all document. Instead, tailor it for each job application. Align your skills and experiences with the job requirements you’re applying for. This means emphasizing relevant experiences and skills while de-emphasizing less relevant ones. It’s about presenting yourself as the perfect fit for the position.

Researching the Job Market

• Understanding Job Descriptions: Job descriptions offer valuable insights into what potential employers are looking for. Read them carefully. They are a goldmine of information about the skills, experiences, and qualifications valued in a candidate. Pay attention to the language used and the order in which requirements are listed; these are clues to what the employer prioritizes.
• The Importance of Industry Keywords: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes before they reach human eyes. These systems scan for keywords related to the job. Your resume should include these keywords to ensure it passes through the ATS successfully. These keywords are often found in the job description. They can include specific skills, tools, software, and job-specific terms. Understanding and using these keywords can make the difference between your resume being noticed or overlooked.

Section 3: The Structure of a Killer Resume

A well-structured resume is critical for making a strong impression. This section breaks down the key components of a resume and how to effectively assemble them.

Header and Contact Information

• What to Include and What to Omit: Your resume header should contain your name, phone number, and professional email address. If relevant, consider adding a LinkedIn profile or personal website. Avoid including personal information like your date of birth, marital status, or photo, as these are irrelevant and could lead to unconscious bias.

Professional Summary/Objective

• Crafting a Compelling Introduction: This is your elevator pitch. In a few sentences, highlight your most significant achievements, skills, and what you bring. Tailor this section to echo the key job requirements you’re applying for.
• Differences Between a Summary and an Objective: A summary briefly overviews your professional background, highlighting your experience and skills. On the other hand, an objective is more about your career goals and what you hope to achieve in the position you’re applying for. Choose based on your career stage and the job requirements.

Work Experience

• Listing Your Experiences in a Powerful Way: Start with your recent job and work backward. Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements in each role. Focus on accomplishments rather than just duties.
• Tips for Quantifying Achievements: Use numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements wherever possible. For example, “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 10”. Quantifiable achievements provide concrete evidence of your capabilities.
• Listing Degrees, Certifications, and Relevant Coursework: Include your highest degree first, followed by others in reverse chronological order. Mention any relevant certifications or courses that enhance your qualifications for the job.
• Education vs. Experience: What Gets Priority?: If you’re a recent graduate with limited work experience, place your education section before your work experience. For those with substantial professional experience, education should follow the work experience section.
• Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills: Hard skills are technical or specific abilities (e.g., software proficiency, languages), while soft skills are interpersonal (e.g., communication, problem-solving). Both are important, but tailor the balance to the job description.
• Tailoring Skills to the Job Description: Highlight skills mentioned in the job description or critical in your field. Be honest about your proficiency levels.

Additional Sections

• Certifications, Volunteer Work, Publications, etc.: Include additional sections if they add value to your resume. This could be certifications, licenses, publications, volunteer work, or projects relevant to the job.
• When and How to Include These Extras: These sections should support and enhance your candidacy, not distract from it. Include them if they demonstrate additional skills, experiences, or knowledge relevant to the job.

Section 5: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Crafting a resume is a meticulous process; even small errors can have a big impact. This section covers common pitfalls in resume writing and how to avoid them, ensuring your resume presents you in the best possible light.

Spelling and Grammar Errors

• The Importance of Proofreading: Spelling and grammar errors can be a major red flag for employers, suggesting a lack of attention to detail. Always proofread your resume multiple times. It’s easy to overlook mistakes in your writing, so this step is crucial.
• Tools and Tips for Error Checking: Utilize tools like Grammarly or Microsoft Word’s spell check to catch basic errors. However, don’t rely solely on these tools. Read your resume out loud to catch awkward phrasings or mistakes that spell check might miss. Additionally, having a friend or a professional review your resume can be invaluable in spotting errors you might have missed.

Being Too Vague or Generic

• The Importance of Being Specific and Targeted: Generic resumes that don’t meet specific job requirements are less likely to grab an employer’s attention. Customize your resume for each job application, focusing on how your skills and experiences align with the job description.
• Avoiding Cliches and Buzzwords: Phrases like “hard worker,” “team player,” or “go-getter” are overused and don’t convey real information about your capabilities. Instead, use specific examples and achievements that demonstrate these qualities. For instance, rather than saying you’re a “problem solver,” describe a situation where you identified and solved a complex problem.

Length and Overloading Information

• Ideal Resume Length: A one-page resume is ideal for most professionals, especially those with less than ten years of experience. More experienced professionals can go up to two pages if necessary, but it’s important to be concise.
• How to Keep Content Concise and Relevant: Focus on relevant experiences and skills. Don’t feel the need to list every job you’ve ever had; instead, focus on roles relevant to the position you’re applying for. Use bullet points to keep your descriptions brief and to the point. Eliminate redundant or irrelevant information to keep your resume focused and easy to read.

As we wrap up this comprehensive guide to crafting a killer resume, let’s recap the key points that will set your application apart in a crowded job market:

• Preparation is Key: Start with a thorough self-assessment and market research. Understand your strengths and how they align with the job market.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application. Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that match the job description.
• Structure Matters: Pay attention to the structure of your resume. Use a clear and logical format, and make sure each section – from your contact information to your education – adds value and relevance.
• Details Make a Difference: Avoid common mistakes such as spelling and grammar errors, being too vague or generic, and overloading your resume with information. Be specific, concise, and precise.
• Reflect Your Brand: Your resume is a reflection of your brand. It should showcase your professional skills and experiences and convey your personality and career aspirations.

Remember, your resume is often your first and only chance to make a good impression on a potential employer. It’s more than a document; it’s a tool to tell your professional story. Approach it with care and thoughtfulness.

Finally, be confident in your abilities and what you bring. Job hunting can be a challenging journey, but with a killer resume, you’re well-equipped to land that next great opportunity. Keep learning, adapting, and growing, and don’t forget that perseverance is key in any job search.

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19 Resume Tips to Make a Killer Impression

Let’s be real — writing a resume or cover letter can be a daunting task. You want to know how to land your dream job, and an outstanding application is the first step. If you’re looking for the top resume writing secrets, you’ve come to the right place!

Keep reading to discover how to make a great impression with your resume and cover letter, beginning with the resume.

Killer Resume Tips

1. select powerful words.

Hiring managers are responsible for looking over a multitude of resumes. To stand out from the crowd, focus on utilizing powerful words and an active voice. Mix up your sentence structure and vocabulary to keep the reader interested.

2. Use Quantifiable Descriptions

Highlight quantifiable examples to explain how you’ve utilized your skills and experience from other positions. On average, a recruiter scans a resume for six seconds before deciding whether to move on. Strive to be concise and impactful with the information you include.

3. Choose a Professional Font and Format

Your font style and size should always be professional and easy to read. Keep the font between 10 to 12 points and margins between 0.5 and 1 inches on all four sides of the page. Examples of popular fonts for professionals include:

• Times New Roman

Your resume should fit on a single page without excessive white space. Use your cover letter to discuss information that is relevant but couldn’t fit on the resume.

4. Keep Your Experience Relevant

List your experience in reverse chronological order. Include only the most recent relevant work and schooling. It’s better to focus on two positions comprehensively and show how you excelled than to address every job you’ve ever held.

Draw attention to your crowning achievements by including the critical points at the top of each section. That first bullet should encourage the employer to continue reading. Always remember to be honest — lying on your resume is grounds for termination with the potential for legal recourse.

5. Avoid Offering Personal Info

It’s illegal for businesses to ask you certain questions during the hiring process. This helps protects you from discrimination or hiring bias. Therefore, you should not willingly volunteer this information on your resume. Avoid writing about your marital status, ethnicity, religion, politics or parental duties.

6. List Your Skills Wisely

The skills that you list on your resume should be relevant to the position you’re applying for. Skip listing skills that are obvious or that don’t apply to the job. Make sure to have the required skills from the job description listed clearly on your resume.

7. Include Links to Professional Social Profiles

Link to your professional social media profiles. This will allow you to share information with a potential employer without using up precious resume space. Utilize career profiles, like LinkedIn , to include a career snapshot or objective statement.

Remarkable Cover Letter Tips

By now, you should be ready to move on to the cover letter. Here’s how to make yours shine:

1. Make It Personal

Personalize your cover letter. It should include the hiring manager’s name, the name of the company and the name of the position. This shows that you’ve put time and effort into creating a customized cover letter.

2. Start and Finish Strong

Your opening sentence should grab the reader’s attention and encourage them to take a closer look . Crafting something original will help your cover letter stand out. Just as importantly, you must finish on a strong note. Conclude with a polite but firm call to action and express your excitement for the opportunity.

Typically, your cover letter will be about two to three paragraphs long. However, feel free to move away from the traditional format if you’re applying to a creative company and want to show an innovative spirit.

3. Act Natural and Be Yourself

Try to find the balance between being overly formal and too casual. Your writing should come across as natural rather than stiff or awkward. To learn how it sounds to another person, use Google Translate to play back your paper.

Limit the number of adverbs and adjectives you use to ensure your intentions are perceived as genuine rather than exaggerated.

4. Brag Away

Cover letters offer a first impression before the interview. This is your chance to brag away and explain why you’re the right person for the job. Showcase your intellect, personality and attitude.

Outstanding Resume and Cover Letter Tips

Finally, you’re ready to dig into the “fit and finish” details to make sure both your resume and cover letter are the best they can be:

1. Proofread and Edit Your Drafts

After completing your application, be sure to proofread and edit your work. Ask a friend to read what you’ve written to see if you’ve explained yourself clearly. Would they want to hire you? Continue to update and edit your work to ensure each rendition fits the company you are applying to.

2. Use a Template as a Guide

The best resume and cover letter tip is to use a template as a guide. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Modify the templates to fit your needs and get creative if you want to make changes. Remember to change your keywords and descriptions to adapt to each job description.

3. Prioritize Experience Over Education

Experience should be highlighted and listed before education. Education is still an important component of the resume, and you should highlight honors or relevant coursework if applicable. Suppose your prior professional experience is limited. If that’s the case, then point out activities from volunteer work or clubs that may be worthwhile.

Most recruiters want to know that you have a degree, but they’re more focused on what skills and experiences set you apart from other graduates.

4. Prepare for Questions

Read through your resume and cover letter and imagine what questions you’d have. Do you have time gaps between jobs? Have you taken a lot of short-term positions, or did you move around from jobs frequently?

Think over how you would like to answer these questions to remain confident and comfortable if they have follow-up questions on your application.

5. Save as a PDF

Save your resume and cover letter as PDFs to ensure your formatting remains impeccable. Also, remember to save the documents as your name and the project type. Pro tip: Keep a master list of all of your job descriptions and important dates to use when updating your resume.

6. Utilize the Job Description

Use keywords from the job description to optimize your cover letter and resume to beat the applicant tracking system (ATS) used by many companies. By pulling the keywords directly from the company’s text, you affirm that you are the right person for the position.

7. Learn About the Company

Do your research before beginning to write. By learning more about the company , you ensure that your work stands out from other applicants. You can use the tone and language that corresponds to the company’s website. Doing research also helps prepare you for the interview.

8. Update Your Contact Info

Interested employers need a way to communicate with you. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date before applying. Choose an email and phone number that is professional-sounding but not linked to a previous work position. Only include your address if it works in your favor. Otherwise, it’s not necessary.

The First Step to Landing That Dream Job

These 19 killer cover letter and resume tips will help you make a great first impression. Remember to follow the instructions for each company’s unique application process. You may need to adjust your writing to meet their expectations. When in doubt, look to industry examples for guidance on how to craft your application to fit a specific position.

With these resume writing tips, you have an actionable toolkit to help you land that interview — and score the job. 

Author: Alyssa Abel

Alyssa Abel is a college, career and education writer with a special interest in student mental health, study abroad and learning. Her work appears regularly on education sites like HerCampus, Teaching Channel and CollegeXpress, among others. Follow her on Twitter @alyssaabelblog or read more on her website, Syllabusy.

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How to Build a Killer Resume

Table of contents.

How to build a killer resume ? A killer resume is your ticket to success in today’s competitive job market. It’s the first impression you make on potential employers, showcasing your skills, experiences, and qualifications. Crafting a standout resume requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of what employers are looking for. In this blog, we will delve into the art of building a killer resume – one that grabs attention, highlights your strengths, and opens doors to career opportunities. From essential tips and tricks to the benefits of an impressive resume, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the journey to creating a resume that leaves a lasting impact.

• Begin your resume with a compelling summary that highlights your key skills, experiences, and career objectives in a concise manner.
• Customize your resume for each job application. Align your skills and experiences with the specific requirements of the role to make your resume more relevant.
• Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements. Numbers provide context and demonstrate the impact you’ve had in previous roles.
• Create a dedicated skills section that lists both technical and soft skills . This section can quickly grab the attention of employers.
• Prioritize the experiences that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. Emphasize achievements that demonstrate your fit for the role.
• Use strong action verbs to describe your accomplishments. Action words make your resume more engaging and dynamic.
• Aim for a resume length of one page for early-career professionals and two pages for those with more experience. Be concise and avoid unnecessary details.
• A killer resume sets you apart from other candidates and leaves a strong impression on employers.
• Your resume’s effectiveness increases your chances of being selected for interviews, the next step in the hiring process.
• A well-crafted resume effectively communicates your value to potential employers, highlighting how you can contribute to their organization.
• A strong resume not only impresses employers but also boosts your confidence as you present yourself as a qualified and capable professional.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number] [LinkedIn Profile]

: Results-oriented marketing manager with [X] years of experience driving successful marketing campaigns. Expertise in digital marketing, brand management, and team leadership. A proven track record of increasing brand visibility and revenue.

Marketing Manager | [Company Name], [City, State] | [Dates]

• Led a team of [X] marketers in executing multi-channel marketing campaigns that increased online engagement by [Y]%.
• Successfully launched [Product Name], resulting in [Z]% revenue growth within the first quarter.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and execute integrated marketing strategies.
• Digital marketing and SEO optimization
• Team leadership and project management
• Data analysis and market research
• Excellent written and verbal communication

: Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing | [University Name], [City, State] | [Graduation Year]

: Enthusiastic software engineer with a strong foundation in programming and problem-solving. Graduated with a degree in Computer Science and eager to apply my skills to contribute to innovative software solutions.

: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | [University Name], [City, State] | [Graduation Year] Relevant Coursework: Data Structures, Algorithms, Object-Oriented Programming

• Proficient in programming languages, including Java and Python
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Familiarity with software development life cycle
• Developed a web application that streamlined data entry and improved team efficiency by [X]%.
• Implemented an algorithm to optimize route planning for delivery services, reducing delivery times by [Y]%.
• Collaborated on a group project to create a mobile app for event organization.

Crafting a killer resume is an investment in your professional journey. It’s a powerful tool that presents your qualifications, experiences, and potential in a way that captivates employers. By following the tips and tricks provided and drawing inspiration from the resume examples, you can create a resume that stands out in the crowded job market. Your killer resume will not only open doors to interviews but also instill a sense of confidence as you present yourself as a valuable asset to potential employers. As you embark on the journey of building your resume, remember that it’s more than just a document – it’s your gateway to showcasing your unique abilities and aspirations.

Buildfreeresume.com has a consumer rating of 4.83 stars on Sitejabber .

Introducing John Smith: Your Expert Resume Writer, Cover Letter Specialist, and Career Coach. Meet John Smith, your dedicated partner in crafting the perfect resume, compelling cover letter, and charting your career path to success. With a passion for helping individuals reach their professional aspirations, John brings a wealth of expertise to the table as a resume writer, cover letter specialist, and career coach.

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This is the Anatomy of a Killer Resume (complete breakdown + 15 examples)

Whether you’re new to the workforce or shifting careers, there’s one thing that remains, decade-after-decade, essential for successful career development.

A killer resume can make or break career opportunities, boost your salary, or expand your options in the job search process.

Crafting a resume isn’t a simple task. Just ask the 20,000+ people who Google “How do I write a resume?” every month. Fitting your career (or lack of career) into one document is daunting—not to mention ATS optimization and constant adjustments for different job applications.

Whether you’re figuring out how to create a resume for your first job or you’re already climbing the career ladder, we’re here to provide all the resume help you need. This guide will demystify the resume-building process by breaking it down, piece-by-piece.

Buckle your seatbelts, because we’re practically giving away trade secrets here.

Let’s take it from the top.

Resume Header

This may be the most simple part of a resume, but it’s also easy to mess up. Mistakes here can prevent an interested recruiter from reaching you.

Here’s what belongs in a resume header—

• Your legal name (we recommend against using your middle name unless your first and last name are very common)
• A professional email address (no [email protected], please)
• A current phone number
• A LinkedIn url, if you have a profile set up.
• Your current city and state

We should also talk about what doesn’t belong. Never put your full mailing address in your resume header. Not only is it unnecessary, but it can actually raise privacy and discrimination concerns, potentially hindering your job search.

Resume Header Checklist:

☐  Does the header contain correct contact info? ☐  Does the resume header have a link to your LinkedIn account? ☐ Are all numbers in the resume header correct? ☐ Are all links in the resume header working?

A resume title is an easy and super-effective way to align your resume with your target job. Match your resume title exactly to the title of the target job. That way, ATS software knows you’re a good match for the position. Adjust the job title for each job application submitted.

Adding a line below your title can allows you extra space for alternative titles, descriptors, or keywords that describe specific expertise within an industry. It’s best to use keywords directly from the job post you’re applying for to maximize ATS optimization. You can also use a mission statement.

Resume Title Checklist:

• Does the resume title match the job description?
• Is the subtitle / keyword list / mission statement optimized with ATS-friendly keywords?

Summary Section

Crafting a compelling resume summary sets a tone for the entire document. It’s the first (and sometimes the last) thing a recruiter reads before passing your resume up the chain or throwing it out completely.

Your summary should quickly address your biggest selling points. Think of it as an advertisement. Essentially it’s a sales pitch to get an interview. It shouldn’t belong or elaborate (5-7 sentences, max). Recruiters will spend only a few seconds reading through a resume summary, so every word should pack a punch.

Resume summary checklist:

• Is the summary section language is tight and accomplishment-driven?
• Does the resume summary contain ATS-friendly keywords, pulled directly from job description?
• Do resume bullets highlight career accomplishments or professional credentials?

Skills Section

Have you ever heard a real estate agent chant location, location, location ?

Keywords in a skills section are the “location” of a resume. Many companies (especially those hiring at a high volume) use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline the hiring process and weed out unqualified candidates. It’s actually a fairly simple process: An ATS program scans incoming resume keywords to see how well they match the job postings.

More resume keywords matches = higher ATS score.

Higher ATS score = resume is passed to a human hiring manager.

Create a skills section in your resume to house some of these juicy keywords. They’re also useful for human readers with a checklist of core skills they’re recruiting for.

Professional Experience

Now, we move on to the real meat of your resume.

The work history portion of your resume should highlight professional experience, including titles, employers, start/end dates, responsibilities, and most importantly job accomplishments .

If you’ve been at your current job for a while, add a brief description of your scope of responsibilities in paragraph form, then bullet points that describe specific accomplishments, KPIs, and goals for each job.

If you’re at the start of a career path, you can always fill gaps in your resume with part-time work and temporary roles — just make sure to tie them into the job you’re aspiring to as much as possible.

Resume job history checklist:

• For each job, do you provide company name, location, job title, and years of employment?
• Do you provide a brief description of your duties and scope for each position?
• Do you provide quantified accomplishments ?
• Do you provide the most detail for your latest jobs, with less detail on older/less relevant jobs?
• Did you omit information that is personal, outdated, or off-target?
• Is work history listed in reverse chronological (newest to oldest) order?

Volunteer Work

This section isn’t mandatory, so include it only if the service is relevant to your target job—maybe by extending your years of experience or demonstrating leadership skills.

Resume Volunteer Section Checklist:

☐ Have you listed committees, leadership roles, and professional associations in chronological order? ☐ If your volunteer experience is extensive, have you limited the section to the 4-5 most notable entries? ☐ Have you listed any major recognitions in your volunteer history?

Unless you’re a recent college graduate with limited experience, education and professional training should go at the bottom of your resume. Keep it clean and simple—no need to list every class you’ve ever taken.

Unless you’re a current student or have graduated in the past year, leave dates out of this section. It often does more harm than good by allowing ageism into the hiring process.

Resume Education Checklist:

☐ Are education entries in order from most recent to oldest? ☐ Are areas of study clearly listed? ☐ Have you listed any relevant certifications and professional development courses?

Final checklist

Last but not least, here’s a handy checklist of the major components of a strong resume. How does your resume measure up?

• Is it in a clear, readable, commonly used font? Arial and Times New Roman are classic stand-bys. Calibri is one of my new faves.
• Does it have ample white space in the margins? (Keep one-inch margins on the sides and at least a half-inch on top and bottom.)
• Is it limited to two pages?
• Is it free from typos and errors?
• Does it convey a clear, unified message about who you are and what you do (aka your personal brand)?
• Is it focused on accomplishments and benefits more than responsibilities and duties?
• Does it speak to the desired qualifications for the type of job you’re seeking?
• Does it replace niche industry jargon or company-specific phrases with better-understood translations? (Imagine a recruiter or HR person who isn’t necessarily familiar with the technical details of your target job.)
• Is it consistent in terms of formatting, verb tense, organization?
• Does it aim toward your next job (not your current job)?

If creating a resume still sounds daunting reach out to the pros at Upword Resume .  Our team of professional resume writers includes experts from every sector, from engineering to communications to healthcare. You can also follow us on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for monthly career tips and information to help you keep your resume polished and focused!

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How to Create a Killer Resume in 2024 with 3 Simple Steps?

Table of Contents

Looks like it’s time to begin the dreaded job-searching process . Whether you’re a student looking for an internship or a recent graduate gearing up for your first job, it’s equally tiresome and painful. But most of it all depends on making a killer resume .

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Why do you need to make a Killer Resume?

Do you know how much time an HR professional will spend reviewing your job resume?

By using an eye-tracking technique, a study by Ladders, Inc. revealed that the average screening time for a candidate’s job resume is 7.4 seconds.

A Resume is reviewed for 7.4 seconds by the HR team

Here is another mind-boggling statistic, According to Glassdoor , every job opening attracts 250 job resumes on average out of which 4-6 are invited for an interview and 1 person receives the job offer. Looking for a job or internship? Here's a quick guide!

How to Create a Killer Resume in Three Steps?

It can seem daunting but use the practical tips given below to create a killer resume that will grab the attention of resume reviewers and help get your foot in the door with an interview:

1. Choose a creative resume format

2. Structure your content

3. Build your resume for each individual job application

1. Choose a Creative Resume Format

Moving away from the traditional bullet-pointed resume format will be a welcome change. Modern job resumes with a creative format will allow you to add colour palettes, and infographic designs and help you stand out from the crowd.

Using a modern job format will give you an edge over your competitors

Also Check: how to Calculate your Hourly Salary

While it’s best to create your creative resume on Illustrator or Photoshop , it does require some design skills and knowledge of Adobe software. The alternative is to use a free downloadable templates on word and use it as a guide to get creative.

2. Structure Your Content

Laying down your content in a structured chronological order is most effective and popular with both recruiters and job seekers.

One Glance is all you get from a recruiter. Be Creative and Make it Count!

• Name, Professional Title & Contact Information – Enter your full name along with your most recent job title. Alternatively, you could also add the job function instead of a designation if you are aiming to transition to a higher position and don’t want to limit your opportunities (eg: ‘marketing’ instead of ‘marketing specialist’). Do not forget to add a professional email address and your phone number – LinkedIn profile/portfolio links are optional.

• Photograph – While there is a little bit of controversy on whether this is a good idea, we strongly recommend adding a picture as it gives a lot more personality to your job application.

• Resume Summary – Write a description entailing your goals, objectives, career path and why you’d be a good fit for the company

• Professional Experience – Include headlines for every position held but provide elaborate tasks and responsibilities for the most recent or most relevant position held. If you don’t have any corporate experience, feel free to add an internship, apprenticeship, part-time volunteer, freelance or academic experience.

If you’re looking to gain some corporate experience, sign up on Qureos . We’ve created our platform specifically for students and recent graduates like you.

You Can Also: Check your Resume Score

‍ 3. Tailor your Resume for each Individual Job Application

While generic surveys are so much easier to mindlessly forward, it’s far more effective to tailor your resume to suit the job requirements and get yourself a fighting chance to earn an interview.

According to a research study conducted by Zety , the success rate of job applications is 2-3.4% which means.

Send out over 50 Applications = 3.4% conversion rate = 1.7 – Land a Job

This conversation rate will improve drastically if you send out more targeted resumes keeping the following best practices in mind:

• Dissect the job description and identify keywords and the job requirements
• Insert keywords from the job description to talk similar language on your resume
• Identify all the job requirements in the job description and modify your resume to evidently show that you fulfil the requirements, ideally with metric achievements.
• Use the company’s colours on your resume
• Add the company logo on your resume
• Write your resume in an active voice
• Submit the resume in a PDF format
• Spell-check your resume with Grammarly
• Include a cover letter with your resume
• Keep your resume short and to the point – 1 to 2 pages
• Include portfolio or links to other websites if required
• After the application is submitted, reach out to the hiring manager or talent acquisition from the employer and express your motivation to join the company.

If you have followed the steps above, pat yourself on the back because you just created a killer resume! 

What can Qureos do for you?

If you're looking to become the most eligible candidate in any room with a stellar portfolio that is impossible to reject! Complete portfolio projects and showcase your expertise in any subject and fool-proof your application.

Build Your Work Portfolio via Qureos Projects

Go forth and use these techniques to create a killer resume, get noticed and land your dream job! If you’d like to learn more about all the buzz at Qureos , contact us at [email protected] or check out our socials !

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Ten Tips for a Killer Resume

A killer resume is the gateway to a great job , so you'll want to ensure your resume is as exciting and unique as you want your work life to be. Flat, rambling sentences can give an underwhelming portrayal of your abilities, and suggest that you are completely interchangeable with any other candidate. On the other hand, short, active, and punchy descriptions of your past experience – and potential future – paint a picture of a vibrant candidate that a company would be lucky to hire. The difference is in the crucial framing of yourself and your abilities. Small modifications of language and a clear vision of the purpose can make your resume a magnetic promotional tool that will showcase your talent.

Here are ten tips for creating a killer resume that will get you hired

1.Use active language.

2. List outcomes.

3.Use keywords

4.Make yourself easy to find

5. Don't inflate or bloat

6..Make your resume legible

7.Create a narrative

8.Avoid using jargon

9.Get straight to the point

10. Present a polished product

Employers look at your resume not only as a summary of your skills, but also as an overall indication of your dedication to clarity, and meticulousness. An error-free resume will indicate how much time and dedication you've put into it. It helps to have a final set of eyes to fully tighten up your resume – and you can get one of the many experts on Fiverr to help you craft a winning document. ‍ What do you think makes a killer resume? What things you should you avoid? Tell us in the comments below!

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How to Create a Killer Resume

New year, new resume? If you’re thinking about sharpening (or creating!) your resume, you probably have questions about format and what to put down during the years you took off to raise children.

And should you reveal when you graduated from college? Especially if it was a long, long time ago?

We recruited Nicole Heinrich, CEO of Full Circle, Inc. to help, as she did during her “Resume Boot Camp” at Make It Better’s Re: Work III.

First, she reviews some resume basics:

• Heading Your name, email address, phone number and home address should be clearly displayed at the top of each page—but never exceed two pages.
• Profile or Objective The profile briefly describes who you are and what you’ve done, while the objective specifically defines the job you want. Your target industry determines which one to use.
• Experience Starting with your most recent position, this section identifies company name, location, years employed, job title and summary of responsibilities. Most importantly, it lists clear, powerful bullets describing actions you took that led to measurable results. “Your bullet may be that you did xyz, which increased revenue by 20%,” Heinrich says. “If it’s not impactful, it doesn’t qualify as a bullet.”
• Education Heinrich believes you should include the year you graduated. “Prospective employers can determine your age from your work experience, anyway,” she says. You can also include professional certifications under this heading.
• Affiliations, Honors, Awards Hiring managers look to this section to get a sense of your personality. Anything athletic—like running a marathon—is impressive because it demonstrates your determination and self-discipline.

How do you handle gaps in your employment record?

“Your cover letter can explain it, or you can use a functional format that doesn’t list the years you worked,” Heinrich says. She also suggests careful consideration of informal, work-related accomplishments during those gap years. “If you accomplished something that’s relevant to the job you’re applying for, you should include it.”

What about format?

“You want the format to be pleasing to the eye,” Heinrich says. Carefully select your font, spacing and color, keeping in mind your target industry. Nicole recommends getting outside help to create a resume with the right balance and symmetry. Take a look at sample resumes from your industry that can give you ideas.

What are the most common resume mistakes?

“The most common mistake is stating the obvious in a bullet,” Heinrich says. Sloppy formatting, redundancy and indecisiveness are also pitfalls. “If you’re saying ‘I’ll take any kind of job,’ it tells the hiring manager that you don’t know what you want,” Heinrich says. But the kiss of death on a resume is misspellings.

What turns a good resume into a great resume?

“Building a resume is more than just putting words on paper,” Heinrich says. “What you find as you go deeper into the process is that there are certain patterns about you that make you uniquely valuable.” The trick is to determine your proudest work-related moments and translate them into compelling language for a “killer resume.”

Design Your Killer Resume with Canva: A Step-by-Step Guide

Benefits of Using Canva for Resume Design

Creating a resume in canva, tips and best practices for creating a resume in canva.

We may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners.

In today’s job market, having a well-designed and visually appealing resume can make all the difference. A great resume can help you stand out from the competition, showcase your skills and experience, and land your dream job . One platform that can help you create a resume that stands out is Canva.com .

Canva is a popular graphic design platform that has a range of templates and design elements that can be used to create a variety of design projects, including resumes. In this article, we’ll explore how to create a resume using Canva, the benefits of using Canva for resume design, and some tips and best practices for creating a resume that will impress potential employers .

One of the main benefits of using Canva for resume design is the wide range of templates available. Canva has dozens of resume templates to choose from, each designed by professional graphic designers. These templates offer a range of styles, from simple and classic to bold and modern, and can be customized to fit your personal style and career goals.

Another benefit of using Canva for resume design is the ease of use. Canva has a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, which makes it easy for anyone to create a professional-looking resume, even if they have no design experience. Canva also offers a range of design elements, including icons, illustrations, and photographs, that can be incorporated into your resume to make it more visually appealing and engaging.

Additionally, Canva has a range of free and paid design elements that can be used to enhance your resume . With Canva’s free design elements , you can add icons and illustrations that match the tone and style of your resume , without having to spend any money. Canva also offers a range of paid elements, including premium illustrations and stock photos, that can be purchased for a small fee and used to give your resume a more professional look and feel.

Now that we’ve explored the benefits of using Canva for resume design, let’s take a closer look at how to create a resume in Canva.

Step 1: Choose a Template

The first step in creating a resume in Canva is to choose a template. Canva has dozens of resume templates to choose from, so take some time to browse through the options and choose a template that fits your style and career goals. Once you’ve selected a template, you can customize it to fit your needs.

Step 2: Customize the Template

The next step is to customize the template. This involves adding your personal information, including your name, contact information, and professional summary. You should also include your work experience, education, and any relevant skills or certifications.

Canva’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to add and edit text, as well as to adjust the layout and design of the template. You can change the font, color, and size of the text, as well as add images and graphics to enhance the design of your resume .

Learn to write a killer resume with our top picks of 5 must-read books on resume writing. Land your dream job today, get a book that best fits your needs.

Step 3: Add Design Elements

Once you’ve added your personal information and work experience, it’s time to add design elements to enhance the look and feel of your resume . This is where Canva’s range of design elements comes in handy.

You can add icons, illustrations, and other design elements to your resume to make it more visually appealing and engaging. These design elements should match the tone and style of your resume , and should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the design.

Step 4: Save and Download Your Resume

Once you’ve customized your resume template and added design elements, it’s time to save and download your resume . Canva allows you to download your resume in a variety of formats, including PDF, PNG, and JPG. It’s important to choose the format that is most appropriate for your needs.

If you’re submitting your resume online, a PDF is the best option, as it ensures that the formatting and design of your resume will remain intact. If you’re printing your resume to bring to an interview, a high-resolution PNG or JPG may be more appropriate.

Now that we’ve explored the process of creating a resume in Canva, let’s take a look at some tips and best practices to help you create a resume that stands out.

• Keep it Simple: While Canva offers a range of design elements, it’s important not to overwhelm your resume with too much design. Keep the design simple and clean, with a focus on showcasing your skills and experience.
• Use a Professional Font: When selecting a font for your resume , choose a professional font that is easy to read. Avoid using decorative or stylized fonts, as they can be difficult to read and may distract from the content of your resume .
• Customize the Template: While Canva’s templates offer a great starting point, it’s important to customize the template to fit your personal style and career goals. This means adding your personal information, work experience, and design elements that match the tone and style of your resume .
• Keep it Relevant: When selecting design elements for your resume , make sure they are relevant to your experience and the job you’re applying for. Avoid adding design elements simply for the sake of making your resume more visually appealing.
• Proofread and Edit: Before finalizing your resume , be sure to proofread and edit it carefully. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting issues. It’s also a good idea to have someone else review your resume to ensure it’s error-free and makes sense.

Creating a resume in Canva can help you stand out from the competition and land your dream job . By choosing a template, customizing it to fit your personal style and career goals, and adding design elements that enhance the look and feel of your resume , you can create a professional-looking resume that showcases your skills and experience. With the tips and best practices outlined in this article, you can create a resume that stands out and impresses potential employers.

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How to write a killer Software Engineering résumé

An in-depth analysis of the résumé that got me interviews at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, and more.

This résumé got me interviews at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft, and Apple.

I obtained these interviews by sending my résumé to the résumé black hole , also known as applying online.

Applying online is the most common way people go about applying for a job and therefore the least effective way to land an interview due to competition. Yet that is exactly how I obtained all my interviews.

How did I accomplish this?

In this article, I will go through a line-by-line analysis of my résumé for the following purposes:

• explaining the choices that I made in creating my résumé
• why I believe this résumé worked to help me land those interviews, and
• how you can create an even better résumé!

I decided to write this article because I struggled a lot with landing interviews when I first started looking for a job. It would have been extremely helpful for me to have a real-life example résumé to look at.

This article is organized into the following sections:

• The All Too Familiar Way of Not Landing an Interview - a short anecdote of my frustrations when I first started applying for jobs
• Evaluating the Options: Moving Forward - a reflection on different strategies to improve the odds of landing interviews
• Learning How to Write a Killer Résumé By Example - the step-by-step analysis of my résumé with each of the following sections corresponding to my résumé:

The Essentials from a Glance

• Who Are You
• Contact Information
• Personal Projects

The All Too Familiar Way of Not Landing an Interview

Applying online.

You probably know the link that every company provides for online applications. It’s the classic career site that shows you a bunch of job titles which you think you are totally qualified for until you open the job description and read the minimum requirements.

A job description with a bunch of words that you have never heard of, may have heard of, or hoped you had heard of. And it has an innocent-looking “ Apply” button .

Despite the uncertainty you may feel about your qualifications, you apply anyway because you want a job.

So you fill out the application form, press submit — and wait and hope for a positive response.

Your results will be varied:

• Phone Interview ? (yay, a chance at employment!!!)
• Immediate Rejection ? (darn, back to the drawing board)
• No reply  ? (ugh, at least give me the courtesy of having some closure)

Repeat Until Success… Right?

Sadly, this is the typical process that many people go through when looking for a job/internship.

Apply to a couple of companies. Get a couple of rejections or no replies. Apply to a couple more companies. Get a couple more rejections or no replies. Over, and over, and over again.

Why do we do this to ourselves? We spend all this time doing the same repetitive task to obtain the same, disappointing results.

Because this is what everyone does to get an interview, right? Because at least we’re working towards the right direction and have a glimmer of hope, right? How else are you supposed to get an interview?

Evaluating the Options: Moving Forward

“Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.” - Dale Carnegie, (author of “How to Win Friends and Influence People”)

We can think of approaching the problem of not getting interviews in two ways:

• Putting your application/ résumé under the microscope
• Questioning the process in which you go about obtaining an interview

This article focuses on the former, because no matter what avenue you end up taking to get an interview, essentially every company utilizes your résumé as a basis for evaluation . Therefore, we will examine my résumé under a microscope and focus on learning how to write a remarkable résumé.

Getting an interview via online application is extremely challenging because your résumé has to pass numerous stages before it gets into the hands of the hiring manager.

It has to bypass online keyword filters , stand out to a recruiter who reviews it for about 6 seconds and meet the expectations of the hiring manager who decides whether you are worth interviewing.

Yet, despite all those hurdles, I obtained all my interviews by applying online. How? Trial and error . I’ve applied to hundreds of different software engineering positions since my sophomore year of college.

When I first started applying, I faced a staggering number of rejections, but over time I learned how to adapt. By the time I was a senior, I was extremely successful in landing interviews from almost every company I applied to.

The résumé that landed me all those interviews is the exact one in this article.

It took me four years of iteration and real-life testing to get to this point. From this experience, I have come up with a list of résumé writing principles to help you write an even better software résumé. These are principles that have helped me land my dream job and are principles that can help you land yours.

While it took me four years of college to figure this all out, you don’t have to go through all the leaps and bounds because you can learn all of it right here, right now.

My goal is to be the one-stop hub for all your questions on how to obtain a software engineering interview. That way, you don’t have to waste countless hours cross-referencing Google search results to find the best answer on how to write a software engineering résumé that gets interviews.

Your valuable time could be better spent on writing your killer résumé.

So start here and now with this article. Reap the benefits from my past experiences and let’s begin the step-by-step walkthrough of my résumé!

Learning How to Write a Killer Résumé — By Example

“As to methods there may be a million and then some, but principles are few. The man who grasps principles can successfully select his own methods. The man who tries methods, ignoring principles, is sure to have trouble.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Let’s take another look at this résumé:

One-page résumé

Recruiters do not have all day to read your résumé. On average they view it for less than 6 seconds. Keep it short and concise .

Sections (Header, Education, Employment, Software Projects, Skills)

Place sections in order of importance from top to bottom. The ‘ Personal Projects ’ section is a unique, must-have for people looking for a software engineering position.

Consistent layout + font per section

Make sure each section contains a uniform look. Consistent style is important as it enhances the readability. Readability is essential.

So why does this résumé work? Let’s explore the numbered bullet points.

Who Are You (1)

Target Audience: Anyone writing a résumé

Starting off real easy. Your name. Place your name at the top of your résumé in a large legible font.

No need to be all fancy about it with extravagant colors or fancy fonts. Plain and simple does the trick. You want the recruiter to see this easily from a mile away because you want them to know who you are. A recruiter who has to do minimum work is a happy recruiter. A happy recruiter is one who is more likely to give you an interview.

Recap: Make it ridiculously easy for the recruiter to read and find your name.

Contact Information (2)

Your contact info should be as easy as identifying your name. This is so important. Of all the things in the world, please do not mess this one up because how else on earth will the recruiter contact you?

Recap: Put in the correct contact information or you’ll never be contacted.

Education (3)

Target Audience: Anyone writing a résumé with a degree

If you are attending or attended college, this should be the first section of your résumé, because going to college is a huge accomplishment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only “66.7 percent of 2017 high school graduates age 16 to 24 enrolled in colleges or universities”. So be proud of it and include it!

Right off the bat, this tells the recruiter that you are invested in education and learning, which is crucial because technology is continuously changing. Furthermore, this information serves as an indicator of your successes, so be sure to put it down.

Recap: Put down where you got educated.

Be sure to include relevant coursework corresponding to the position that you are applying for. While a course on the History of Italian Gastronomy sounds exceptionally appetizing, it doesn’t have a place in a résumé that is trying to get you a job in computer science.

This will significantly improve the ability of the recruiter and the hiring manager looking at your résumé in deciding whether you are a good fit for the position. And as previously mentioned, a happy recruiter is more likely to give you an interview.

Recap: Only include relevant coursework.

Okay. GPA. Before we talk about this, let’s remind ourselves of the main purpose of a résumé.

The main purpose of a résumé is to highlight your knowledge, skills, and accomplishments succinctly. You want to include things on your résumé that you are proud of, but also things that will impress. You want to paint a picture of yourself in the best light possible so that recruiters and hiring managers want to interview you.

Now back to your GPA. It should be fairly obvious whether or not your GPA is impressive. If your GPA is below a 3.0, don’t put it on your résumé. There’s nothing wrong with excluding your GPA from your résumé if it only harms your chances.

If you have a GPA between 3.0–3.2, this is a judgment call. From personal experience, I have talked to some companies that require a minimum GPA of 3.2, but these were primarily financial or quantitative companies. Most software companies have little regard for your GPA. If you have anything above a 3.2, I would place it on your résumé.

If you have a low GPA, fear not, as this gives you the opportunity to be creative! My overall GPA was a 3.2 due to poor grades from my freshman engineering prerequisites and humanities classes. But once I finished and started taking courses within my major, my in-major GPA (GPA calculated from courses in my major) was a 3.44, which was significantly higher. So that’s what I put down (but make sure to qualify it as a departmental GPA).

There are many ways of going about presenting yourself in the best light possible, even when it may seem like the odds are stacked against you. I only provided one example of accomplishing this, but there are many more ways waiting to be discovered by you. Fully embrace your failures and accomplishments because they make up who are you. Be honest and truthful, and always focus on highlighting the best parts about yourself.

Recap: Your GPA does not define you. The purpose of your résumé is to present yourself in the best light. Never forget that! Be creative when going about this and DON’T LIE.

Employment (4)

Target Audience: Students with software engineering work experience

If you are a college student without any experience, don’t be afraid! This was my senior year résumé when I was applying for a full-time job. I was fortunate enough to have accumulated relevant work experience from summer internships, but this isn’t absolutely necessary to get an interview. If you find that you don’t have much to put in section, jump down to the ‘ Personal Projects ’ section.

While it is great to have past work experience, not all work experience is treated equally when it comes to looking for a job in software engineering. Focus only on including work experience that has relevance to the job that you are applying for. For instance, if you have experience working as a cashier in retail or a waiter in the food industry, don’t include it! Unfortunately, your abilities to handle money or serve food did not provide any indication that you will succeed as a software engineer.

A recruiter’s goal is to match candidates with jobs that fit the candidates’ skill sets. Therefore it is essential only to include past work experience that has some relation to the position that you are currently applying to, on your résumé.

Part of accomplishing this means creating a collection of various résumés, each tailored specifically for the different job that you are interested in. This is analogous to the college application process, where you had to write separate essays for each university that you applied to. Each college has its own values, culture, and vision, making it nearly impossible to write a generic, one-size-fits-all college essay. Therefore, tailor your résumé to the job that you are applying for.

Lastly, a note on dates. Order your experiences in descending order starting with your most recent experiences. For undergraduates, this means being mindful of including experiences that are both recent and relevant. Sadly, no one cares about whatever accomplishments you had in middle school or high school. If the experience is outdated, leave it out.

Recap: Have various versions of your résumé tailored for each job you are applying for. There is no one-size-fits-all résumé.

The hardest part about résumé writing is having descriptions that fully encapsulate your accomplishments from past work experiences in a meaningful and impressive way.

What does it mean for your descriptions to be meaningful and impressive? It means getting the recruiter to think: “This is someone that has the skill sets we are looking for. This is someone that has made a significant impact in their past jobs. This is someone we would like to interview and potentially hire.”

The primary objective of the Employment section is to show the impact and value that you had while working at an established institution. Your goal is to show recruiters that you are a candidate that can get things done and do them well.

To best showcase my accomplishments in my résumé, I adopted the following powerful formula, created by the Former SVP of People Operations at Google, Laszlo Bock:

“Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z]” — Laszlo Bock

You can see this very clearly in the very first bullet point of this section on my résumé.

Improved device’s battery lifespan by 8% by integrating a fuel gauge sensor and establishing a battery saving state

Let’s break it down:

Accomplished [X]- Improved device’s battery lifespan

Measured by [Y]- by 8%

By Doing [Z]- integrating a fuel gauge sensor and establishing a battery saving state

I leveraged this formula in some shape or form in almost every sentence in my résumé.

To help you along this process, below is a word bank of excellent verbs you can and should use:

Here are some examples of fill-in the blank sentences that I have come up with for you to get started:

• Reduced _____ by _____ by _____.
• Redesigned _____ for _____.
• Implemented _____ for _____ by _____.
• Improved _____ by _____ through _____.
• Utilized _____ to _____ for _____.
• Increased _____ by _____ through _____.
• Integrated _____ by _____ for _____.
• Incorporated _____ for _____ by _____.

Recap: Use the “Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z]” formula. It’s the most effective and most apparent way of showing recruiters/managers your impact.

Lastly, I end each work experience with a leveraged knowledge bullet point. The utility behind this last bit is it enables the reader to really get a sense of the technology I am familiar with by explicitly stating the technologies that I used for the project.

This also allows me to have a concise, but clean ‘Skills’ section located at the bottom of my résumé. Recruiters can then look at the bottom to immediately obtain a sense of my capabilities by seeing which computer languages I am familiar with. If they are looking to see if I have specific knowledge in a particular tool, framework, or library, then they can find this out by looking at my projects.

Recap: Including technologies that you used in your descriptions will help you bypass online keyword filters when applying online. This will also give recruiters a clearer idea of your experiences and knowledge.

Personal Projects (5)

Target Audience: Students looking for software engineering internships/full-time positions + Unique section for software engineering applicants

Maybe if I say it enough times, you will understand the importance of this section, especially for those that do not have work experience .

Personal projects are integral to piquing recruiters and hiring managers interest as it shows you are passionate about programming.

A personal project can be anything programming related, whether it be a Python script, Java program, web page, mobile application, etc. These projects show that you are genuinely interested in computer science and you have strong desires to work as a software engineer because you are willing to go beyond your schoolwork and create something on your own.

Taking the initiative to build something on your own is extremely impressive. It shows that you are dedicated to expanding your knowledge of computer science and that you are not afraid of putting in the extra work to do so. Ultimately, it is a fantastic way to demonstrate self-initiative and genuine interest in this field.

The other benefit of doing personal projects is that you inevitably gain the skills that apply to work in the real world. Things that you don’t usually do at school, but you will do at work such as using standard frameworks/libraries, understanding full-stack web development, creating mobile applications, setting up a development environment, or programming efficiently with Vim.

Tip: Create a personal website that showcases and documents all of your personal projects. This is a little hack that ‘virtually extends’ your résumé beyond the one-page limit.

To reiterate one last time, personal projects show your passion and dedication towards developing the necessary skills needed for a job that you don’t yet have. This is a must-have on any software engineering resume.

“Build some iPhone apps, web apps, whatever! Honestly it doesn’t matter that much what you’re building as long as you’re building something. You can build a fairly meaty project in one weekend. This means that with about 3–4 weekends of work, you can make your résumé go from so-so to fantastic. Seriously — I’ve seen lots of people do this.” - Gayle McDowell, former Google Engineer and Author of Cracking the Coding Interview

If there is a specific company that you really want to work at, one of the best ways to stand out is doing a personal project that is directly related to the job that you are applying for.

I got my internship at Autodesk by taking a free online interactive computer graphics course on Udacity. The course taught me to use a JavaScript library called three.js , and it just so happened that there was a software engineering internship opening at Autodesk looking for someone with full-stack website and knowledge in three.js (aka ME).

A word of caution on this technique. This strategy is not perfect. This only really works for companies like Autodesk which do not have generalized software engineering internships like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft. When starting off early in your career, it is better to generalize and figure out the different disciplines of computer science. Nonetheless, this is an excellent method worth trying if there is a specific company you want.

Recap: Personal projects are imperative. If you haven’t already, start NOW! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Target Audience: Anyone looking for a software engineering job

The title explains it all. Keep this section dumb, simple, and clean. List all the relevant skills that you want the recruiter to know you have. The more skills you have listed here that match key technical words in the qualification section of the job description, the better your chances!

This will allow you to bypass the online keyword scanner easily. However, this is not a fool-proof method of circumventing the scanner. Ultimately it is a recruiter who gets their hands on your résumé that decides, but they will also be more inclined to give you an interview if they see you as a good fit for the job!

A thing to note about the skills section is to NOT simply list all the keywords on the job description just for the sake of showing you’re a good fit. It will come back to bite you as you will be questioned on the skills you claim to know.

Part of giving yourself some leeway in this is including an indication of your proficiency level. Since you are probably not practicing every language you’ve ever encountered on a day to day basis, including a proficiency level can help the recruiter know your strongest languages at a moment in time and other languages that you are familiar with.

I’ve opted to use two tiers:

• Proficient - Languages that I am very familiar with, feel very comfortable using, and can interview with right now.
• Familiar - Languages that I have utilized in the past but may not be as knowledgeable in currently, but can pick back up given time.

Other valid options include:

• Intermediate
• Working Knowledge
• Basic Knowledge

Recap: When applying for a specific job online, cross-reference the job description and add essential technical keywords on your résumé to increase your chance of getting an interview.

Key Takeaways

• Make sure your name and contact information is correct and legible
• Be sure to include your education. If your GPA is low, leave it out or be creative!
• Utilize the “Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z]” formula to effectively show the impact that you had in your past employment
• Do personal projects — especially if you do not have past experience working in tech

Final Thoughts

While this résumé got me interviews at numerous software engineering companies, there is no guarantee that following all the principles and techniques I have explained here will yield the same results for you.

This was my senior year résumé in 2017. It is a showcase of my journey and interest in software engineering. Copying it will do you no good, as technology is constantly evolving and the talent search is an ever-changing process. Instead, use this as a reference.

Use my résumé and this article as a resource to become a better résumé writer and a more effective communicator. Focus on learning how to best convey your skills and achievements to others. This in itself is an invaluable, lifelong skill that you will need wherever you go.

As you write your résumé, please remember — be yourself!

Your résumé is a list of your own accomplishments, achievements, and interests. Your goal is to craft the most polished version of yourself. Lastly, have fun and enjoy the process!

For anyone interested in using this resume template, I obtained it from CareerCup which was founded by Gayle Laakmann McDowell, author of Cracking The Coding Interview .

From personal experience, what’s most important is the content. The resume writing principles discussed above can be applied to any template!

Also, check out my new website, memlayout.com , which helps students learn programming through visualizing their python code line-by-line.

software engineer @tesla. consider donating to https://oeop.mit.edu/. visualize python code line-by-line with https://memlayout.com/

If this article was helpful, share it .

Learn to code for free. freeCodeCamp's open source curriculum has helped more than 40,000 people get jobs as developers. Get started

How to Create a Killer Resume With ChatGPT in 6 Simple Steps

ChatGPT is a versatile, time-saving tool that has been helping businesses in numerous ways since its launch in 2022. So, it should come as no surprise that ChatGPT can also assist with one of the most widely deplored professional tasks – building a resume.

Whether you feel uncomfortable writing about your strengths and accolades or simply don't have the time to write a tailored resume for each job you apply for, using ChatGPT can be a great way to jumpstart the writing process, or give your existing document a bit of a makeover.

If you're interested in using AI to streamline your job search, we outline how the chatbot can be used to create a resume that stands out from the crowd. We also include prompt examples and screenshots from ChatGPT, to guide you along every step of the process.

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Create a Competitive Resume With ChatGPT in 6 Simple Steps

Writing or updating a resume with ChatGPT is simple, as long as you know what you're doing. Follow the steps below to create a resume, tailored to the job you're interested in.

• Gather your information
• Open ChatGPT and craft your first prompt
• Enter your personal experience
• Enter information about the job description
• Enter information about the hiring company
• Edit and refine your resume

1. Gather your information

Before you even open ChatGPT, we recommend having all of your important information at hand. This will prevent you from switching between tabs when crafting your prompt, and will also make it easier for you to refine your resume in later stages.

The type of information you prepare will depend on you and the position you are applying for. However, as a general rule of thumb, we recommend covering the following categories.

• Contact details – This will include your mobile number, professional email, and address if relevant
• Education – Write down your education history, including the names of the institutions you studied at, your majors or subjects, your grades, the dates of graduation, and any other relevant information.
• Work experience – If you have one, make sure you have a copy of your current resume to hand. If not, compile information from your previous jobs, including your responsibilities, and information about the companies.
• Certifications – If you have any certifications or qualifications that are relevant to your role, or make you seem like more of a credible candidate, gather this information and think about how these achievements can be leveraged to improve your hiring potential
• Skills – This is a good time to summarise your best hard and soft skills too. However, be as specific as possible and make sure you only write down skills that relate to your prospective role.

2. Open ChatGPT and craft your first prompt

Once all your information is at hand, open ChatGPT and create an account if you haven't already. Then, craft an introductory prompt requesting ChatGPT to build you a resume. We'd also recommend asking the chatbot to avoid using overused or cliche terms in your opening prompt to prevent your resume from looking like a carbon copy.

If you're stuck for inspiration, here's an example prompt:

I am writing a resume and I need your help. You are going to act as a professional resume writer, and are going to avoid using cliche terms. Do you understand?

After you've entered this prompt, ChatGPT will ask you for your following experience.

3. Enter your personal experience

Now it's time to make your resume personal. Use all the information you compiled in the first step, and feed it into your next prompts for ChatGPT. You have two options here. You can either paste your entire current resume into ChatGPT or highlight the most important bits in the prompt, to keep things succinct.

Here's an example of a prompt you could create below. We chose to break the prompt into different chunks but feel free to format the input how you like.

I am going to give you my personal information so you can make sure the resume reflects my personal experience and qualifications. I am a [Insert Current Job Title), with a degree in [Insert Course] from [Insert Name of Institition], which I graduated from in [Insert graduation date] with a [Insert Your Final Grade]. Since graduating, I've worked as a [Insert Previous Position] for [Insert Name of Previous Company] between [Insert Dates]. My main responsibilities at GoodContent included [Insert Main Responsibilities]. In my current role in [Insert Name of Current Company], I [Insert Current Responsibilities]. I have a number of hard and soft skills including [List Skills]. I also have a certification in [Insert Certifications]. Write my resume.

4. Enter information about the job description

Unless you're creating a multi-purpose resume that you're planning to tailor to specific job descriptions down the line, this is a good time to add more context about the job you're planning to apply for. You can do this by simply pasting the job description into the chatbot, as we did in the example prompt below.

I am applying for a job as a [Insert Job Title]. I am going to provide you with the job description I am going to apply for. Can you read this carefully? [Insert Full Job Description]

For best practice, we'd recommend including as much information in this step as possible. However, if some details in the job description don't apply to you as much as others, you can choose to leave these out.

5. Enter information about the hiring company

To make sure your resume is as targeted as possible, you should enter more information about the company itself next.

We'd start by telling ChatGPT exactly what you're going to do. Let it know you're going to be providing it with more information about the company that's hiring, and then enter basic information about the company, including its name and core function. You can also paste information from the ‘About Us' page on the company's website, to make your prompt as rich as possible. Use the example prompt below for inspiration.

Now I'm going to provide you with more information on the company that's hiring, so you can make sure my resume is tailored to their pain points and hiring needs. The company name is [Insert Name of Company] and their central mission is as follows: [Insert More Informatio About the Company]. The website's about you page is as follows: [Insert Company's ‘About Us' Page]

6. Edit and refine your resume

After completing these steps, ChatGPT will have created a rough resume for you. While it may look decent, now is a good time to give it a read over, and identify areas that could be improved upon.

• Edit the format – ChatGPT can only generate text outputs, so you'll have to format the resume yourself. The way you format the document is up to you, but for scannability purposes, make sure all the key information is bullet-pointed.
• Use active tense – Ensure your resume uses the active tense as much as possible, especially when speaking about your current work experience. This will make you appear more confident, and will grab the attention of the reader.
• Check the content – ChatGPT does a good job of building a resume based on the content you provide. However, if you think the resume should place more emphasis on certain experiences or skills, don't be afraid to craft new prompts to achieve this.
• Watch out for generic language – ChatGPT has a habit of creating generic-sounding responses. To make sure your resume has a human touch, comb through the copy and substitute cliche, or frilly terms with something less formulaic.
• Add contact details – Once you're happy with the result, add the personal contact details you prepared in the first step.
• Choose a template – Paste the ChatGPT-created resume into a template of your choice. Make sure that this template is appropriate for the industry that you are applying within, and avoid models that are too stylized and complicated. If you don't want to pay for a template, you can choose a free one with platforms like Canva and Indeed.

Consider Using a Dedicated AI Resume Builder

ChatGPT does an excellent job at creating resumes, especially if you're armed with useful tips and tried-and-tested prompts. Also, a massive perk of the platform is that it's completely free to use too, which is a huge boon if you're looking to save money during the job search.

However, if you're willing to invest in your professional future, AI-enabled resume builders let you create and edit resumes in even fewer steps, and offer far more useful features than ChatGPT. Most AI resume builders will ask you to input your qualifications and experience, and then take care of everything else, saving the hassle of entering different prompts.

Aside from generating and refining text, lots of AI resume builders format and design your document too, eliminating the need to switch between platforms. After researching the best options on the market, we decided that Zety Resume Builder is the best due to its impressive range of templates and intuitive “final summary” feature.

There are loads of great pieces of software to choose from, though. Compare the best platforms in our guide to the best free and paid resume builders .

We're sorry this article didn't help you today – we welcome feedback, so if there's any way you feel we could improve our content, please email us at [email protected]

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10 Best Resume Builders to Create A Great Resume – 2024 Guide

A re you exhausted from investing endless hours into creating an impeccable CV? This article introduces the top resume builders that will revolutionize your job application approach. Bid farewell to monotonous formatting and greet a remarkable resume that distinguishes itself from the rivalry. Prepare yourself to secure your dream job with self-assurance effortlessly!

>> Unlock Your Career Potential With Super Star Resume

10 Best Resume Writing Services

• Super Star Resume - Best overall
• ZipJob - Best for guarantees
• Resumeble - Best with custom bundles
• Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best for range of career service
• ResumeSpice - Best for job seekers of any level
• TopResume - Best customer service
• Resume Writing Services - Best for affordability
• Craft Resumes - Best for quick turnaround
• Resume Companion - Best value resume writing service
• Resume.com - Best free service

When creating this compilation, we considered different elements such as affordability, ease of use, accessibility, the privacy policies of the companies involved, and more. The highest-rated services offer advice, templates, and tools and allow you to consult with experts who can help you craft an impressive resume highlighting your strengths to potential employers.

Our collection comprises free services and those that make use of professional writers’ skills. Some options require a subscription or one-time payment.

>> Secure Your Dream Job With Super Star Resume

Super Star Resume - Best Resume Builder Overall

Star Rating: 4.9/5

Super Star Resume is an innovative resume builder that completely transforms creating professional resumes. By offering a user-friendly interface and a range of powerful features, Super Star Resume enables individuals to produce exceptional resumes that effectively showcase their abilities, accomplishments, and work history.

• Skilled and seasoned writers
• Customized strategy aligned with unique career objectives
• Timely delivery of resumes
• More significant expense compared to certain other resume writing services
• Restricted selection of additional services
• Availability may be restricted depending on demand and geographic location
• Intuitive resume builder: An intuitive interface that simplifies the resume creation process, offering modern templates for a professional look.
• Customization choices: Users can personalize their resumes by selecting from various font styles, colors, layouts, and sections to align with their unique style.
• Comprehensive content suggestions: Access to a collection of expertly curated bullet points, action verbs, and industry-specific phrases to craft impactful resume content.
• Real-time previews and editing: Real-time previewing and editing capabilities ensure a visually appealing and error-free final resume.
• Integration with professional networking platforms: Integration with LinkedIn allows users to maintain consistency between their online presence and resume.
• Tailored resumes for different job applications: The duplication feature facilitates the creation of multiple resume versions, each customized for specific job applications or industries.
• Resume analytics and tracking: Users can monitor the views and downloads of their resumes, gaining valuable insights to optimize their job search strategies.
• Professional Resume : $169
• Resume With Cover Letter : $199
• All-Included : $199

>> Use Super Star Resume to Secure Your Dream Job

ZipJob - Best Resume Builder for Guarantees

Star Rating: 4.7/5

ZipJob is widely regarded as an excellent option for resume creation, especially for those who value guarantees. Their impressive 60-day assurance ensures that individuals searching for employment will experience a surge in interview invitations within this period.

If this desired outcome cannot materialize, ZipJob proactively offers a complimentary review and revision of your resume. This guarantee highlights their commitment to client contentment and showcases their unwavering belief in the superior quality of their resume writing services.

• The starting package is cost-effective
• Complimentary ATS check included
• 60-day interview assurance with higher-tier packages
• The design and layout made it challenging to read the resume
• The summary section was overly lengthy and filled with clichés
• The formatting of the education and training sections was subpar
• Expert resume writers: ZipJob provides access to a team of expert resume writers with the skills and knowledge to review, evaluate, and optimize your resume for compatibility with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and hiring managers.
• ATS optimization: Meaning they ensure your resume is structured and formatted to navigate and succeed in ATS filters effectively. Employers commonly use these filters to assess and rank resumes during the initial screening process.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder online offered by ZipJob assists you in identifying and integrating pertinent keywords and industry-specific terminology. This practice heightens the visibility of your resume, making it more likely to capture the attention of hiring managers.
• Job-specific content suggestions: ZipJob provides valuable advice regarding the most relevant and influential content to include in your resume for different job titles and industries. This guidance is invaluable in customizing your resume for specific roles.
• Cover letter writing assistance: ZipJob supports the creation of impactful cover letters that complement your resume, strengthening your overall job application.
• Unlimited revisions: One noteworthy feature of ZipJob is the option for unlimited revisions and updates to your resume. This ensures that your resume not only meets but continues to meet your specific requirements and mirrors your professional growth.
• Collaboration with resume writers: the platform facilitates direct collaboration with the resume writers, enabling you to share additional information, discuss specific requirements, and seek clarifications at any stage of the resume creation process.
• Launch Package: $139 (or $48/mo)
• Fast Track Package: $189 (or $65/mo)
• Premium Package: $299 (or $27/mo)

>> Use ZipJob to Secure Your Dream Job

Resumeble - Best Resume Builder With Custom Bundles

Star Rating: 4.3/5

Resumeble is a highly efficient and user-friendly resume builder that empowers individuals to create professional and compelling resumes. With Resumeble, crafting a standout resume becomes a streamlined process thanks to its intuitive interface and extensive range of customizable templates.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or someone looking to change careers, Resumeble caters to all needs and skill sets. It offers helpful suggestions and expert advice to ensure your resume showcases your unique qualifications and achievements in the best possible light.

• A 60-day interview guarantee is included
• Budget-friendly package deals are available
• It’s more established than some other websites
• Keyword optimization: This feature helps optimize your resume by suggesting relevant keywords aligned with your target industry or job, enhancing your visibility to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and recruiters.
• Content import: Resumeble allows you to import your existing resume or LinkedIn profile, saving you the time and effort of manual data entry.
• Real-time editing: You have the convenience of editing and modifying your resume in real time, providing the flexibility to experiment with various formats, sections, and content.
• ATS compatibility: Resumeble ensures your resume is ATS-compatible, essential for better visibility and a higher chance of being shortlisted by employers using Applicant Tracking Systems.
• Download options: The platform offers various download formats, including PDF, Word, and plain text, ensuring compatibility with diverse application processes.
• Cover letter builder: Resumeble features an integrated cover letter builder, streamlining the creation of professional and personalized cover letters that complement your resume.
• Career Pro Package : $159.00
• Professional Package : $299.00
• Premium Package : $399.00

>> Use Resumeble to Secure Your Dream Job

Let’s Eat, Grandma - Best Resume Builder for Range of Career Service

Star Rating: 4/5

Let’s Eat, Grandma is an inventive and progressive tool for creating impressive resumes. The platform streamlines the resume-building process, making it easier for job seekers to craft exceptional resumes. With Let’s Eat, Grandma, individuals can create unique resumes that catch the eye of employers and set them apart from the competition.

This user-friendly platform offers a range of customizable templates that allow users to tailor their resumes to showcase their specific skills and experiences. Let’s Eat, Grandma also provides expert advice and recommendations to help ensure that your qualifications and achievements are effectively highlighted in your resume.

• Complimentary resume evaluation
• Choices available for individuals from entry-level to executive-level positions
• Extensive collaboration opportunities
• Not specialized in academic CVs or federal resumes
• Relatively higher pricing compared to some other services
• Potential for a longer turnaround time compared to competing services
• Expert choice: You can save your resume in multiple formats (PDF, Word, plain text) or easily share it with potential employers via email or a link, simplifying the distribution of your resume.
• Error highlighting: The builder can identify potential errors, inconsistencies, or missing information within your resume and provide suggestions or alerts for improvement.
• Section prompts: Pre-written prompts for various resume sections (e.g., work experience, education, skills) can help you structure your resume effectively and ensure you include essential details in each area.
• Customizable sections: You can add, remove, or rearrange sections to tailor your resume to emphasize your strengths and relevant experiences.
• Keyword optimization: The resume builder can recommend industry-specific keywords based on the job description, enhancing your resume’s chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and grabbing the attention of hiring managers.
• Starter Package : Priced at $439, but there is an anti-inflation sale price of $389.
• Accelerated Package : $549.
• The premium Package : $689, but the anti-inflation sale price is $614.
• Executive Concierge Service : $1,899 or as low as $119/month.

>> Use Let’s Eat, Grandma to Secure Your Dream Job

ResumeSpice - Best Resume Builder for Job Seekers of Any Level

Star Rating: 3.8/5

ResumeSpice , a renowned online resume builder, streamlines crafting professional resumes. This platform provides job seekers with a user-friendly interface and a wide selection of templates, enabling them to create impressive resumes that align with their career objectives.

With ResumeSpice’s seamless experience, users are guided through each resume section effortlessly while receiving valuable tips throughout the process. From personal details and work history to skills and accomplishments, this platform ensures that all crucial aspects of a resume are comprehensively addressed.

• Additional assistance
• Timely service
• ATS optimization
• Guaranteed interviews
• Restricted revisions
• Insufficient customization options
• Restricted refund policy
• User-friendly interface: ResumeSpice boasts an intuitive and user-friendly platform, simplifying the resume creation process and offering a seamless experience to users.
• Extensive template library: The platform offers a vast selection of professionally designed templates tailored to various industries and job positions. Users can explore different styles and layouts to find the perfect match for their needs.
• Import and export options: ResumeSpice enables users to import their existing resumes in formats like PDF or Word for easy editing and updates. Users can conveniently export their finalized resumes in multiple formats, facilitating sharing with employers or uploading to job portals.
• Mobile-friendly design: ResumeSpice is optimized for mobile devices, allowing users to create and modify their resumes using smartphones or tablets.
• Cloud storage: The platform provides secure cloud storage for users’ resumes, ensuring accessibility and updates from any device with an internet connection.
• Resume tracking: ResumeSpice includes tools for tracking the performance of submitted resumes, such as monitoring views, downloads, and application outcomes. These features empower users to evaluate their progress and make data-driven enhancements to their job search strategies.
• Entry Level Resume : $479
• Professional Resume : $589
• Executive Resume : $699

>> Use ResumeSpice to Secure Your Dream Job

TopResume - Best Resume Builder for Customer Service

Star Rating: 3.6/5

TopResume is an outstanding resume builder explicitly tailored for customer service professionals. It offers a seamless and user-friendly experience, enabling users to create exceptional resumes effortlessly. The platform goes beyond just providing a basic resume template, offering valuable suggestions and tips to optimize the content.

This ensures that each resume created on TopResume is unique and attention-grabbing in the highly competitive job market.

Besides its user-friendly interface, TopResume provides expert review services. These services allow skilled professionals to provide personalized feedback on resumes, helping enhance their overall quality further. By leveraging this feedback and incorporating attention to detail, customer service professionals can create compelling resumes that effectively capture the attention of potential employers.

• Streamlined registration process
• Well-designed and formatted one-page resume
• The summary and Job Scope sections were overly extended
• The training section needed to have prominence
• Skill-based sections: The resume builder features dedicated sections highlighting essential customer service skills, including communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
• Expert review services: TopResume provides expert review services where experienced professionals offer personalized feedback and recommendations to enhance the overall quality of your resume.
• ATS compatibility: The platform ensures that the resumes created are compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which employers commonly use for scanning and filtering resumes.
• Download and sharing options: Users can download their resumes in various formats, such as PDF or Word, and easily share them with potential employers or upload them to job portals.
• Industry-Specific Tips: TopResume offers industry-specific tips and guidance to assist users in tailoring their resumes to the customer service field, helping them stand out among competitors.
• Cover letter builder: Besides resume building, TopResume provides a builder that empowers users to craft professional and compelling cover letters customized for customer service roles.
• Mobile accessibility: The platform is mobile-friendly, allowing users to create, edit, and update their resumes while on the go, using their smartphones or tablets.
• Entry level : Up to 200$.
• Professional level : Up to 200$-400$.
• Executive level : Up to $350-$700.

>> Use TopResume to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Writing Services - Best Resume Builder for Affordability

Star Rating: 3.3/5

While Resumewritingservices.org may be a different size than its competitors, it stands out due to its team of talented and experienced resume writers. The website is user-friendly and provides exceptional service. However, this service’s true strength lies in its writers’ expertise.

Resumewritingservices.org sets itself apart by offering a comprehensive consultation process and goes beyond expectations by providing unlimited calls with its resume writers. This personalized approach distinguishes them from other companies and guarantees each client receives individual attention and support.

• Experienced resume writers of the highest caliber
• Unlimited phone consultations and revisions
• More expensive than rival services
• A limited range of products
• Skilled and experienced resume writers: Resumewritingservices.org takes pride in its team of highly trained and professional resume writers who possess a deep understanding of crafting effective resumes.
• Personalized service: Resumewritingservices.org offers a personal touch by providing unlimited calls with their resume writers. This unique feature allows clients to engage in direct communication and close collaboration with the writers throughout the resume creation process.
• Competitive job market expertise: The writers at Resumewritingservices.org have knowledge of current job market trends. This ensures that the resumes they create are optimized to excel in today’s fiercely competitive job market.
• Quality Assurance: The service maintains a rigorous quality assurance process to guarantee that the resumes delivered to clients meet the highest standards and align with their expectations.
• Timely delivery: Resumewritingservices.org is committed to delivering resumes within the agreed-upon timeframe, ensuring clients receive their documents promptly.
• Client satisfaction guarantee: Resumewritingservices.org offers a client satisfaction guarantee, assuring clients are fully content with the final resume. The service is ready to provide revisions if necessary.
• Affordable pricing: Resumewritingservices.org provides pricing options that are competitive and transparent, making professional resume writing accessible to a wide range of job seekers.

Resumewritingservices.org employs a pricing system that is clear and easy to understand for their resume-building services. The initial package begins at $270 , including a comprehensive consultation with a skilled resume writer and developing an individualized resume.

They offer extra options that enable customers to personalize their packages based on their unique preferences. This adaptable pricing strategy guarantees that clients can choose the services that align with their requirements and financial constraints.

>> Use Resume Writing Services to Secure Your Dream Job

Craft Resumes - Best Resume Builder for Quick-Turnaround

Star Rating: 3/5

Craft Resumes stand out as a well-established writing and editing service known for its ability to deliver effective outcomes. Our dedication to providing a 24-hour turnaround guarantees you’ll receive the initial version of your resume promptly.

Navigating our user-friendly website is effortless, making it easy to use our services. At Craft Resumes, we specialize in crafting customized resumes to match your skills, qualifications, and aspirations for your career.

• Speedy completion
• Customized CVs
• Intuitive site
• Insufficient details
• Absence of assurances
• Quick turnaround: Craft Resumes commits to delivering the initial draft of your resume within 24 hours, ensuring a speedy and efficient service.
• Expert Writers: Craft Resumes prides itself on its team of experienced writers who possess expertise across various industries and stay up-to-date with current hiring trends. They’re dedicated to making your resume stand out and catch the attention of potential employers.
• Unlimited revisions: We provide unlimited revisions to guarantee your complete satisfaction. If you have specific changes or additions in mind, our team will collaborate with you closely to implement the modifications.
• Confidentiality and Privacy: At Craft Resumes, we prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of your personal information. You can trust that your data will be handled securely and with the utmost discretion.
• Tailored resumes: We specialize in tailoring resumes to align with your career objectives, industry, and job requirements. Each resume is personalized to accentuate your unique strengths and qualifications.
• Resume Writing : $229.00
• Basic : $279.99
• Optimal : $339.99
• All-In-One : $499.99

>> Use Craft Resumes to Secure Your Dream Job

Resume Companion - Best Value Resume Builder

Star Rating: 2.8/5

Resume Companion is a virtual platform and service that specializes in aiding individuals in creating resumes that are professional and impactful. It offers an array of resources and tools to assist job seekers in crafting interesting resumes that effectively showcase their skills, experiences, and qualifications.

A prominent feature of Resume Companion is its user-friendly resume builder. This tool allows users to select from various professionally designed templates and personalize them based on their specific requirements.

Users can effortlessly incorporate their personal information, employment history, educational background, skill set, and other pertinent details to produce a customized resume tailored to their needs.

• Intuitive user interface
• High-quality templates
• Efficiency-boosting functions
• Cost-effective choice
• Restricted editing features without subscription
• Absence of extensive customization options
• Limited availability of extra services
• Cover letter builder: Resume Companion goes beyond resumes and provides users with a tool for crafting customized cover letters tailored to specific job applications. This feature guides users through the process, helping them effectively present their qualifications and make a compelling case to prospective employers.
• ATS optimization: In today’s job market, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Resume Companion helps users ensure their resumes are ATS-friendly. The platform offers valuable tips and insights on incorporating relevant keywords, formatting the document correctly, and increasing the likelihood of passing through the ATS screening process.
• Educational resources: Resume Companion extends its services by offering an informative blog and educational materials that cover various aspects of resume writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, and career development guidance. These resources provide users with valuable insights and advice to help them create impressive resumes and enhance their job search efforts.
• Download and sharing options: Upon completing their resumes, users can conveniently download their documents in multiple formats, including PDF and Word. Resume Companion also makes it easy for users to share their resumes online or print them offline.
• Customer support: Resume Companion values user satisfaction and offers customer support to assist with users’ questions or concerns while utilizing the platform. Users can access support through email or the platform’s contact form.

Resume Companion provides a cost-effective solution for individuals seeking an all-inclusive service. It’s vital to remember subscription renewal is required to access future editing services. In summary, Resume Companion offers a wallet-friendly option for those who desire a user-friendly resume-building experience without needing advanced writing abilities.

>> Use Resume Companion to Secure Your Dream Job

Our Ranking Methodology for Best Resume Writing Services

To comprehensively and objectively rank the top resume writing services, it is essential to have a thorough methodology. The first step in this process was conducting extensive research and analysis. This involved gathering a comprehensive list of reputable resume-writing services from multiple sources such as online searches, customer reviews, industry directories, and personal recommendations.

• Feature analysis: Evaluate the functionalities provided by each resume builder, considering elements like template variety and quality, customization flexibility, user-friendly editing and formatting options, import/export capabilities, spell check and grammar tools, and integration with job search platforms and professional networks.
• Template collection: Examine the assortment and quality of templates. Look for a wide range that suits various industries, job levels, and design preferences, considering these templates’ aesthetics, readability, and contemporary design.
• Editing and customization: Scrutinize the adaptability and user-friendliness of the editing and customization tools each resume builder provides. Assess the capacity to add or modify sections, reorganize content, and tailor resumes to specific job requirements.
• User interface and experience: Analyze the user interface and the overall user experience each resume builder offers. Evaluate the ease of navigation, instruction clarity, guidance or prompts, and the platform’s responsiveness.
• Integration with job search platforms: Determine whether resume builders offer seamless integration with popular job search platforms and professional networks like LinkedIn or ATS systems. Consider how well the resumes can be transferred and their compatibility with these platforms.
• Additional resources: Evaluate if the resume builders provide extra resources such as sample resumes, tools for creating cover letters, interview tips, or career advice. Consider the breadth and practicality of these supplementary resources.
• Mobile-friendliness: Gauge the mobile-friendliness and responsiveness of the resume builders, recognizing the growing trend of mobile job searching and application processes.
• Customer support: Reflect on the accessibility and quality of customer support services, encompassing options like live chat, email support, or knowledge bases. Assess the responsiveness and helpfulness of the support team.
• Pricing and value for money: Appraise the pricing plans presented by the resume builders in terms of the value they offer based on features, usability, and overall service quality.
• Industry reputation: Consider the standing and trustworthiness of the resume builders, considering factors such as awards, recognition, partnerships, and user feedback from reputable sources.

Buyer’s Guide: Why Use a Resume Builder?

Crafting a well-crafted CV comes naturally to particular job seekers. However, even the most seasoned experts may need help in resume writing. If you find yourself in need of help with creating a compelling resume, here are several ways in which the best online resume builder can be beneficial:

Resume builders provide users with pre-designed templates and helpful tips, streamlining the process of writing a resume and alleviating stress.

Offers Writing Tips

Promoting oneself requires considerable effort. Only some people possess writing skills, even if they enjoy self-promotion. To showcase one’s experience and knowledge effectively, a resume builder can help select the most appropriate words and phrases.

Improves Design

In every field, there are unique standards for an impressive resume. If you need to gain knowledge in design or the tools, resume builders can provide free templates to enhance your resume’s visual appeal and quality.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Recruiters often use ATS systems to scan resumes. A good resume builder will help with formatting to ensure that your resume is easy for these systems to read.

What’s the Best Resume Builder?

The ideal resume builder for each individual may differ according to their specific requirements. If you prefer a tool that offers step-by-step guidance in creating your resume, we suggest using a builder that provides helpful tips and recommendations. If you prefer a resume builder that auto-generates a summary, we recommend using a tool that extracts information from your LinkedIn profile.

For those who enjoy having creative control over their resumes, we suggest using a platform with features. By selecting the resume builder that aligns with your needs and suits your industry and personal style, you’ll significantly increase your chances of capturing the attention of hiring managers.

Resume Builder vs. Resume Writing Service: What Matters for You

When it comes to crafting a resume, there are three options available. You can opt to create it independently, use a resume builder tool, or enlist the services of a professional resume writer. Your best choice will depend on your writing abilities, available time, and financial resources.

Do-It-Yourself

You have the choice to construct a resume entirely by yourself. The benefit of this option is that it costs nothing but requires a significant amount of effort. Along with composing all the information, you must possess graphic design skills.

This approach works well if you have these abilities, but with them, your options for creating a resume are unlimited. To overcome this limitation, you can use a resume builder or enlist the help of a resume writing service.

Resume Builder

A tool for creating resumes allows you to input your details into a template, resulting in an original appearance and layout with no design work. The top resume building tools also offer suggestions on enhancing your resume and tailoring it to match the specific job you are applying for.

While you are still responsible for writing the content, once it is written, you can quickly transfer that information into any other template with just a few simple clicks. Some of these services are free and many like to promote themselves as such, but most require a small payment to download your finished resume.

Professional Resume Writing Service

Professional resume writing services are expensive, but they offer the convenience of handling all the work for you. An experienced writer will gather relevant information about your background and transform it into a unique and engaging resume.

The process typically takes a few days, and the level of originality in the outcome largely relies on your choice of company and writer. However, we will not delve into these services further in this guide.

Are Resume Builders Worth It?

Definitely, without a doubt. An effective resume creator will guarantee that your CV is formatted correctly to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems and ultimately reach the hands of recruiters.

Is It Unprofessional to Use a Microsoft Word Resume Template?

Relying on a template will not set you apart, and there is a high likelihood that your application will be dismissed because your resume is identical to those of other job seekers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right resume builder is crucial in today’s competitive job market. Creating a professional and impactful resume that stands out from the crowd can significantly impact your job search. With the right tool, you can save time, improve your chances of landing an interview, and ultimately secure your dream job.

When selecting a resume builder, consider your specific needs and priorities. Look for features like customizable templates, industry-specific examples, and the ability to export your resume in different formats. Consider user reviews and ratings to ensure you choose a reputable and reliable platform.

Remember, an exceptional tool for crafting resumes should give you the power to present your skills, experience, and accomplishments effectively. It should simplify and expedite creating a resume without hassle. Investing in a reliable resume builder is investing in your professional future.

Therefore, explore the different options available for resume builders. Test out their free trials or demos and choose the best fit for your objectives. Our top recommendation is Super Star Resume . This meticulously designed resume can open doors to exciting career prospects and be a dependable companion on your journey toward success.

Ahad Waseem is a business, blockchain, and cybersecurity writer who often takes on art, politics, and economics too. As a linguistic engineer who writes to solve problems, he’s written for various tech and business publications. When he’s not writing, he’s probably on horseback, caring for his houseplants, or training Bonsai trees. He can be reached at [email protected] . McClatchy’s newsrooms were not involved in the creation of this content. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links.

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