Resumé 101 - The Tips

Crafting a winning resume starts with the right format. In this article, we outline proven tips to create a resume that grabs attention and makes an impact—all within the crucial 7-second scan. From structuring your header to highlighting career achievements, discover how to present your best professional self.

Resume Format Tips

Results show a high success rate in following this resume format. 

Header Area: Include full name, city/state, email, and mobile number. LinkedIn should only be listed if well done and up to date.

Title: Center your job title or professional identity (e.g., "COO – Healthcare," "Vice President Supply Chain,” Director FP&A”). This helps clarify the role you are applying for immediately. There is only 7 seconds.

Summary: Three sentences stating who you are and what you specialize in.

Skills or Expertise: List skills or expertise you have critical to the role. C-Suite/VP: List no more than 12. 

VP/Director: List no more than 9. 

List in column /table format across page. 

Career Highlights: For C-Suite/VP roles only. List 3-4 key achievements with measurable results, use no more than two lines for each. 

All the above should fit in the first half page of resume which will be scanned in 7 seconds. Make it have impact.

Work History: Focus on the last 15 years. You can mention prior roles with just the company name and last title.

Education: Follows work history. Certifications in this area too.

Boards: List position, where, and dates.

Volunteer/Community: Include if you have 2-3 activities; otherwise, skip. List them in a single line for brevity.