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7 Steps to Write a Resume That Gets Noticed

What are the 7 basic steps to writing a resume?

A strong resume comes together fastest when it’s built in a clear sequence. These seven steps help you move from gathering details to polishing a document that’s easy for recruiters and hiring managers to scan.

1) Pick the right resume format

Choose a format that fits your situation: chronological (steady work history), functional (skills-forward), or combination (best of both). Most job seekers do well with chronological or combination because they show impact and progression clearly.

2) Create a clean header

Include your name, phone number, professional email, and city/state. Add your LinkedIn profile or portfolio if it strengthens your application. Skip full mailing addresses unless the job posting requests it.

3) Write a targeted summary (or skip it)

A 2–3 line summary can help when you’re changing careers, have specialized experience, or want to spotlight a niche. Keep it specific: role, years of experience, and a few relevant strengths.

4) List work experience with results

Start with recent roles and use bullet points that show outcomes. Lead with action verbs and include numbers when possible (revenue, time saved, volume handled, conversion rates, customer satisfaction, error reduction).

5) Add a skills section aligned to the job

Pull keywords and tools directly from the posting and match them to what you genuinely know. Mix technical skills (software, platforms, methods) with a few role-specific strengths (stakeholder management, auditing, documentation).

6) Include education and relevant extras

Add degrees, certifications, and training. If applicable, include projects, volunteer work, publications, or awards—especially when they support the role or fill experience gaps.

7) Proofread and tailor before submitting

Check formatting consistency, tense, and typos. Then tailor your bullets and skills to the role so the most relevant information appears first.

For a deeper walkthrough and examples, visit What are the basic steps to writing a resume?.

FAQ

How long should a resume be?

Most resumes should be one page, especially for early to mid-career roles. Two pages can be appropriate if you have extensive, highly relevant experience and strong accomplishments to justify the space.