In today’s competitive job market, a well-crafted resume is essential to stand out from the crowd. And one of the critical components of an effective resume is the proper use of headers and sections. These elements help to structure the resume and make it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to quickly understand your qualifications and experience.
In this article, we will explore the 14 essential resume headers and sections that every job seeker should include. From the summary statement to the education section, we’ll provide examples and tips to create a powerful resume that will impress potential employers.
But first, let’s take a look at the history of resume headers and sections. While the concept of a resume has been around for centuries, it wasn’t until the 20th century that formalized sections began to appear. In the 1950s and 1960s, the “Objective” section became popular, followed by the “Experience” and “Education” sections in the 1970s.
Over time, the format and content of resume headers and sections have evolved to keep up with changes in the job market and employment practices. But even with all the changes, the importance of properly structured resume sections remains the same. So, let’s dive in and learn about the essential headers and sections for your resume.
Contact Information Header
When it comes to creating a winning resume, having a contact information header is crucial, yet it is often overlooked. The header serves as the first point of contact between you and potential employers, and if not properly formatted, it can lead to missed opportunities.
A. Importance of having a contact information header
The contact information header is the foundation of your resume. Without it, hiring managers and recruiters may have a difficult time reaching out to you for follow-up interviews or job offers. It’s essential to make sure that your header is properly formatted and easy to read.
Your contact information should include your full name, professional title, phone number, email address, and physical address. Make sure to keep your information up-to-date and accurate, as outdated information could lead to missed opportunities.
In addition to providing easy access to your contact information, your header should also make you stand out from other applicants. Consider adding a personal logo or incorporating a unique design to represent your personal brand.
B. Examples of proper contact information formatting
Here are some examples of proper contact information formatting:
John Doe Marketing Manager 555-555-5555 [email protected] 123 Main Street Anytown, USA 12345
Jane Smith Graphic Designer 555-555-5555 [email protected] 5678 Oak Drive Cityville, USA 67890
The contact information header is a critical component of any resume. It’s important to make sure that your contact information is accurate, up-to-date, and easy to read. Adding a personal touch to your header can also help you stand out from the competition. With a well-formatted contact information header, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.
Professional Summary Section
A. Purpose of a professional summary section
The purpose of a professional summary section is to provide a brief overview of your professional background, skills, and accomplishments to catch the reader’s attention and persuade them to continue reading your resume. It should be placed at the beginning of your resume and serve as an introduction to your qualifications for the position that you are applying for.
B. Examples of effective professional summary statements
Experienced marketing manager with over 8 years of experience in developing and implementing successful marketing campaigns for Fortune 500 companies.
Skilled software developer with expertise in Java and Python programming languages, with a proven track record of designing and implementing complex software systems for multinational corporations.
A dedicated and motivated customer service professional with a strong work ethic and excellent communication skills, committed to providing top-notch service to clients.
These professional summary statements provide a brief introduction of the candidate’s qualifications and expertise, highlighting their key strengths and achievements relevant to the position applied for.
C. Mistakes to avoid when writing a professional summary
When writing a professional summary, there are several mistakes that should be avoided.
Don’t make it too long – keep it concise and to the point, ideally no more than 3-4 sentences.
Don’t make it generic – tailor your professional summary to the job description and the company you are applying to.
Don’t exaggerate or make false claims – be truthful and honest about your skills and accomplishments.
Don’t use jargon or technical terms that the reader may not be familiar with – use clear and simple language that anyone can understand.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can write a professional summary that effectively showcases your skills and qualifications, making a positive impression on the reader and increasing your chances of getting hired. The professional summary section is a crucial part of your resume, and it is important to put in the effort to make it stand out.
Work Experience Section
Your work experience section is arguably the most important part of your resume. It showcases your career history, accomplishments, and the skills you’ve developed over time. A well-written work experience section can make or break your chances of landing an interview.
A. Significance of a Work Experience Section
Recruiters and hiring managers want to see a detailed account of your previous work experience. They want to know what kind of tasks and projects you’ve worked on in the past, your responsibilities, your achievements, and how you’ve contributed to your past employers’ success.
Your work experience section is the best way to demonstrate your career progression, relevant skills, and expertise in your field. It’s your opportunity to show your potential employers what kind of value you can bring to their organization.
B. Tips for Structuring Work Experience Details
To make your work experience section effective, you need to structure it correctly. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Start with your most recent job and work backward chronologically.
- Include the job title, company name, and dates of employment for each role.
- Write a brief description of each position, emphasizing your responsibilities and accomplishments.
- Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and skills.
- Quantify your achievements whenever possible, using numbers to demonstrate your impact.
- Use active verbs, such as “managed,” “created,” and “led,” to make your accomplishments more impactful.
C. Examples of Job Descriptions with Bullet Points
Here are a few examples of job descriptions with bullet points that you can use as inspiration for your own work experience section:
Example 1: Sales Manager
- Directed a sales team of 10 people and exceeded monthly sales targets for five consecutive quarters.
- Identified and pursued new business opportunities, resulting in a 25% increase in revenue.
- Developed and implemented a training program for new hires that reduced ramp-up time by 50%.
- Collaborated with the marketing team to create effective promotional materials.
- Achieved a customer satisfaction rating of 95% through excellent customer service.
Example 2: Marketing Coordinator
- Coordinated and executed successful marketing campaigns across multiple social media platforms.
- Developed and maintained relationships with influencers, resulting in a 30% increase in brand awareness.
- Wrote copy for website and email campaigns that resulted in a 20% increase in conversions.
- Conducted market research to identify new trends and opportunities for the business.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches.
Example 3: Software Developer
- Developed and maintained a web application that served over 10,000 users daily.
- Created and executed test plans to ensure high quality of code and minimize bugs.
- Collaborated with product and design teams to develop user-friendly interfaces.
- Implemented features that improved the scalability and performance of the application.
- Documented development processes and made recommendations for process improvement.
Skills Section
As a job seeker, your resume is your ticket to landing your desired job. While your education, work experience, and accolades are all essential aspects of your resume, you cannot underestimate the importance of the skills section. Your skills section can play a crucial role in securing a job offer, especially in today’s competitive job market.
A. The value of a skills section
The skills section on your resume provides potential employers with an insight into what you can bring to the table. It showcases your strengths and helps employers assess your qualifications for a given job. Writing a well-crafted skills section that accurately conveys your abilities can set you apart from your competition.
Keeping in mind that employers usually spend just a few seconds initially reviewing a resume, the skills section can be a quick go-to reference when trying to gauge if you meet their requirements. A strong skills section can grab their attention and increase the chances that they will spend more time reading your resume to see if you are a good fit.
B. Categorizing skills to showcase relevance to job requirements
A well-crafted skills section requires thought and analysis. Depending on the type of job and the industry, certain skills will be more relevant. You don’t want to list every skill you possess. Instead, you should carefully consider the specific job you are applying for and highlight the skills that make you the best candidate for that role.
Categorizing your skills is a useful way to showcase how relevant they are to the job requirements. Grouping them by different skill sets and making these visually appealing in a table or bullet-pointed list will help make it easier for the hiring manager to assess your qualifications.
C. Examples of skills listing and explanations
Let’s say you are applying for a customer service position at a retail store. Categorizing your skills could be done into multiple groups such as communication, problem solving, customer service, and technology. Some examples of how you could showcase these skills are as follows:
- Communication
- Skilled in providing excellent customer service in person, via email and phone to enhance the customer’s experience
- Active listener who can effectively diffuse and manage difficult customer situations
- Problem-solving
- Detail-oriented and proficient at conflict resolution
- Ability to assess complex situations accurately and effectively
- Customer service
- Experience in working in a customer-facing role with a focus on delivering personalized solutions to meet the customer’s needs
- Willingness to go above and beyond to create a positive experience
- Technology
- Knowledgeable in using POS systems and other technologies commonly used in retail settings
- Adaptable to using new software programs and applications
These bullet points illustrate how showcasing specific skills in a relevant industry can help align you with the job you are aiming for.
A skills section offers an additional opportunity to sell yourself. It allows you to showcase your strengths and highlights your relevant skills for each job requirement.
Education Section
The education section of your resume is an important factor in showcasing your qualifications and capabilities. It tells your prospective employers about your academic background, your areas of expertise, and what educational achievements you bring to the table. Here are some key points on the significance of the education section:
A. Importance of the education section
The education section gives a comprehensive outlook of your qualifications, especially in technical fields where you have to possess certain knowledge and skills to perform well. It also highlights your ability to learn and adapt, and your commitment to constantly improve your knowledge base.
Moreover, when you have limited work experience, your education can help demonstrate your suitability for a particular role. For instance, if you are applying for an entry-level position in software development, your degree in computer science or a related field can be an important factor in gaining the trust of the hiring manager.
B. Prominence and location of education section on the resume
The prominence and location of the education section on your resume depend on how relevant it is to the position applied for, and how much weight it carries. If, for instance, you are an experienced UX designer or project manager, your education may not be the most significant aspect of your candidacy, so you may choose to place it towards the end of your resume. Alternatively, if you are a fresh graduate or someone transitioning to a new field, your education may be the strongest indicator of your potential to perform well, so it can be given a more prominent position.
Generally, the education section is placed after the summary or objective statement on a resume, and should follow a logical order, with the most recent courses taken or degrees earned appearing first.
C. Examples for education section formatting
The following are some examples of how to format the education section of your resume.
Example 1: Recent graduate pursuing entry-level position
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Marketing, XYZ University (2019-2023)
GPA: 3.8/4.0
Relevant coursework: Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing, Market Research
Example 2: Professional with extensive experience, but recently completed a relevant course
Education:
Certificate in Project Management, ABC Institution (2021)
PMP certification in progress
Example 3: Professional with several degrees and relevant certifications
Education:
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, DEF University (2015-2017)
Bachelor of Science in Physics, GHI University (2011-2015)
Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Association of Energy Engineers (2019)
The education section of your resume is a crucial component that should be tailored to highlight your qualifications and demonstrate your potential to be a great fit for the position. By keeping in mind the importance of the section, its prominent position, and purposeful formatting, you can effectively showcase your education in your resume.
Certifications, Licenses, and Training Section
A. Overview of Certifications, Licenses, and Training Section
The certifications, licenses, and training section of your resume is where you list any relevant qualifications that demonstrate your expertise and competency in your field. This section is particularly important for professionals in industries such as healthcare, finance, education, and IT, where licenses and certifications are often required to practice legally or advance in your career.
Your certifications, licenses, and training section should immediately follow your education section on your resume and should include the following details:
- Certification or license name
- Issuing organization or institution
- Date of certification or license
- Expiration date (if applicable)
If you have completed any relevant training programs, you should also include these in this section, along with the date of completion and the name of the course or program.
B. Examples of Certifications, Licenses, and Training Section Listing
To give you an idea of how to structure your certifications, licenses, and training section, here are a few examples:
Example 1: Healthcare
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- American Nurses Association
- Issued 2015
- Expires 2020
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
- American Heart Association
- Issued 2019
- Expires 2021
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification
- American Heart Association
- Issued 2020
- Expires 2022
- Healthcare Provider (HCP) CPR Certification
- American Red Cross
- Issued 2019
- Expires 2021
Example 2: Finance
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- State Board of Accountancy
- Issued 2018
- Expires 2022
- Series 7 License
- Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
- Issued 2016
- Expires 2021
- Series 63 License
- Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
- Issued 2016
- Expires 2021
- Financial Planning Association (FPA) Certificate Program
- FPA
- Completed 2017
Example 3: Technology
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)²
- Issued 2018
- Expires 2023
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Cisco Systems
- Issued 2015
- Expires 2021
- Google Analytics Certification
- Issued 2019
- No expiration date
Remember, when listing your certifications, licenses, and training, only include those that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
Achievements and Awards Section
When it comes to crafting a winning resume, highlighting your achievements and awards is just as important as listing your experience and qualifications. This section can help you stand out from the competition and show potential employers what you’ve accomplished throughout your career.
A. Emphasis of Achievements and Awards Section
The achievements and awards section of your resume should be prominently displayed and given the same level of attention as other sections, such as your work history and education. This section is where you can showcase any recognition you’ve received for your hard work, as well as any major accomplishments you’ve achieved in your career.
B. Importance in Demonstrating Accomplishments
Including your accomplishments and awards on your resume is important because it gives potential employers tangible evidence of your skills and abilities. By highlighting your previous successes, you’re showing employers that you have the experience and know-how to excel in your role. This can also give you an edge over other candidates who may have similar qualifications, but lack the accomplishments and recognition you’ve received.
C. How to Write Achievements and Awards Statements
When writing your achievements and awards statements, it’s important to be specific and measurable. Use numbers and data to quantify your successes, such as an increase in sales, the number of people you managed, or a decrease in costs. This will make your accomplishments more tangible and impressive to potential employers.
Start each statement with an action verb to make it clear what you did to achieve your goal. For example, instead of saying “Increased sales for the company,” try “Boosted company sales by 25% through targeted marketing campaigns.”
D. Examples of Achievements and Awards Statements
- Increased revenue by 50% through the development and execution of a new marketing strategy.
- Earned Employee of the Year award for outstanding performance and dedication to the company.
- Successfully led a team of 10 in the completion of a high-profile project, resulting in a 95% client satisfaction rate.
- Achieved a 30% reduction in operating costs through the implementation of streamlined processes and procedures.
- Recognized with a Sales Achievement Award for surpassing quarterly sales goals by 150%.
By highlighting your achievements and awards in your resume, you’re giving yourself the best chance of landing your dream job. Remember to be specific and measurable in your statements, and use action verbs to make your accomplishments stand out.
Language, Hobbies, and Interests Section
When crafting a well-rounded resume, you might want to consider including a section that highlights your special skills, languages, hobbies, and interests. Here are some reasons why:
A. Inclusion of a section for special skills; languages, hobbies, and interests
Shows personality: Including your hobbies and interests can give the hiring manager a glimpse into who you are as a person.
Highlights unique skills: You might possess a special skill that sets you apart from other candidates. Including it in your resume can make you stand out.
Shows language proficiency: If you speak multiple languages, it’s beneficial to mention it in your resume. It shows your ability to communicate with a broader audience.
B. Examples of when to include in a resume
Language skills: If the job you’re applying for requires you to communicate with clients from different countries or regions, mentioning the languages you speak can be a significant advantage.
Hobbies and interests: If you’re applying for a job where creativity and innovation are essential, your outside interests, such as photography or writing, can demonstrate your ability to think outside the box.
C. Examples of appropriate inclusion of hobbies and interests section
Including hobbies and interests in a resume can be tricky. You don’t want to appear unprofessional or uninterested in the job you’re applying for. Here are some examples of the right way to showcase your hobbies and interests:
If you’re applying for a job in the sports industry, mentioning your passion for a particular sport can demonstrate your knowledge of the industry.
If you’re applying for a marketing job, you can mention your interest in social media and how you stay up-to-date with the latest trends.
If you’re applying for a job in the tech industry, you can mention your interest in coding as a hobby.
If you’re applying for a customer service position where communication is key, including your language skills can be a significant advantage.
If you’re applying for a job in the creative industry, your outside hobbies, such as photography or painting, can highlight your artistic side.
Including a section for your special skills, languages, hobbies, and interests can add a personal touch to your resume. However, make sure to only include relevant information that shows why you’re the best candidate for the job.
Professional Association Memberships Section
Professional association memberships can be an excellent way to network, learn new skills, and stay up-to-date with the latest news and trends in your industry. In this section, we’ll explore the benefits of being involved in local or national professional associations, and provide some examples of successful affiliation with industry associations or professional networks.
A. Overview of Involving in Local or National Professional Associations
Joining a professional association has numerous advantages. Firstly, it enables you to connect with others in your industry, broadening your network and providing opportunities to learn and develop new skills. Attending association events, conferences and workshops is an excellent way to reap these benefits. You can also participate in online discussion forums, webinars, or mentorship programs that help you stay current on trends and strategies.
Being a member of a professional association also gives you access to a variety of resources including industry publications, e-books, whitepapers, and research studies. These resources can help you to stay informed about new developments, best practices and innovative ideas in your field.
Additionally, membership in a professional association highlights your commitment to your profession and can elevate your status in the eyes of employers or clients. It is also an excellent way to demonstrate that you are investing in your professional growth.
B. Perceived Benefits of Professional Association Memberships
There are numerous perceived benefits of professional association memberships. Members often find that they have improved access to job opportunities, as well as increased credibility in their chosen field. Professional associations can provide valuable insights into industry trends, standards, regulations and best practices. Additionally, there is often a sense of comradery among members, with many professional associations hosting regular social events to encourage networking and development of informal support systems.
Professional associations also provide a platform for members to advocate for their industry, collaborate with colleagues to effect positive change, and promote growth and development of the profession on a wider level.
C. Examples of Affiliation with Industry Associations or Professional Networks
If you’re looking to boost your career prospects, joining a professional association is a fantastic first step. There are many different industry-specific and general professional associations to choose from. Here are a few examples of successful affiliation with industry associations or professional networks:
The American Marketing Association is an excellent resource for marketing professionals, providing opportunities for networking, training, and development.
The Society for Human Resource Management is an essential membership for HR professionals seeking to advance their knowledge and skills.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is a nationally recognized trade association for real estate professionals. It provides valuable resources, training opportunities, and events for real estate agents and brokers.
The Association of Women in Science is a professional association that supports women working in science and technology fields. It provides opportunities for networking, mentoring, advocacy, and professional development.
References Section
Including a references section is an essential component of any well-rounded and effective resume. Not only does it demonstrate professionalism and thoroughness, but it also allows potential employers to verify your past work experience and performance.
When listing references, it is essential to follow appropriate etiquette. These guidelines include obtaining permission from your references before providing their contact information, selecting individuals who can speak to your work experience and qualifications, and listing their names, titles, and contact information clearly.
To construct a reference section, begin by creating a separate section titled “References” or “Professional References.” Next, list your references in alphabetical order by last name. Include their full names, titles, company names, email addresses, and phone numbers.
Below is an example of a properly formatted references section:
References
John Doe Senior Marketing Manager XYZ Corporation johndoe.
Optional Sections
As a job seeker, you need to have a well-crafted resume that represents your skills, experiences, and achievements in a clear and concise manner. While there are certain standard sections that every resume should have like personal information, work experience, education, and skills, there are also some optional sections that can add value to your resume.
Here are some additional sections that you can consider including in your resume:
Objective/Summary Statement: This section is a brief description of your career goals, skills, and experiences. You can use this section to convey to the potential employer what you can bring to the table.
Volunteer Work: Including volunteer work in your resume can demonstrate your commitment to your community and your willingness to help others. This section can be particularly useful if your volunteer work relates to your target job.
Certifications/Licenses: Adding certifications or licenses to your resume can showcase that you have the right knowledge, skills, and expertise required for the job.
Professional Memberships: If you belong to any relevant professional organizations or societies, you should include them in your resume. This section can indicate that you are dedicated to your profession and actively engage in professional development.
Languages: If you are fluent in other languages besides English, you can list them in your resume. This section can make you more desirable for jobs where bilingual skills are in demand.
Technical Skills: If you have any specialized technical skills, such as programming languages or graphic design software, you can highlight them in your resume. This section can help you stand out from other candidates.
Now, let’s take a look at some examples of how to use optional sections effectively:
Objective/Summary Statement: “A highly motivated marketing professional with more than five years of experience in developing and implementing successful marketing campaigns. Seeking a challenging position in an organization that values creativity, innovation, and strategic thinking.”
Volunteer Work: “Volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, building affordable homes for low-income families. Worked with a team of volunteers to organize fundraising events and community outreach programs.”
Certifications/Licenses: “Certified in Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute. Licensed to practice law in the state of California.”
Professional Memberships: “Member of the American Marketing Association (AMA). Attended several conferences and workshops on market research, branding, and social media marketing.”
Languages: “Fluent in Spanish and proficient in French. Worked as a translator for a multinational corporation, handling international communications and negotiations.”
Technical Skills: “Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator. Familiar with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Developed several websites and digital marketing campaigns using these tools.”
Including optional sections in your resume can enhance your chances of landing your dream job.
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