How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
For most job-seekers, a good resume is what stands between a dream job and Choice D. Get your resume right, and you’ll be getting replies from every other company you apply to.
If your resume game is weak, though, you’ll end up sitting around for weeks, maybe even months, before you even get a single response.
So you’re probably wondering how you can write a resume that gets you an interview straight up.
Well, you’ve come to the right place!
In this guide, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about how to make a resume, including:
- The 8 Essential Steps to Writing a Resume
- 11+ Exclusive Resume Tips to Up Your Resume Game
- 27+ Real-Life Resume Examples for Different Professions
….and more!
So, let’s dive right in.
How to Make a Resume (The Right Way!)
Before we go into detail about how you should make a resume, here’s a summary of the most important steps and tips to keep in mind:
- Choose a resume format carefully. In 99% of cases, we recommend the reverse-chronological format .
- Add the right contact details. Leave your headshot out and make sure to include your job title , a professional email address, and any relevant links. (E.g.: your LinkedIn profile , online portfolio, personal website, etc.).
- Write an impactful resume summary. Unless you’re an entry-level professional, always go for a resume summary. If you do it right, it’s your chance to get the hiring manager to go through the rest of your resume in detail.
- Pay attention to your work experience section. Take your work experience section from OK-ish to exceptional by tailoring it to the job ad, making your achievements quantifiable, and using action verbs and power words.
- Add the right skills for the job. Keep this section relevant by only including the hard and soft skills that are required for the position.
- Keep your education short and to the point. Your most recent and highest degree is more than enough for a strong education section. You only need to add more details here if you’re a recent graduate with barely any work experience.
- Leverage optional resume sections. Optional sections like languages, hobbies, certifications, independent projects, and others can set you apart from other candidates with similar skills and experience.
- Include a cover letter. That’s right, cover letters matter in 2024, and the best way to supplement your resume is by adding an equally well-crafted cover letter to your job application. To make the most of it, check out our detailed guide on how to write a cover letter .
To get the most out of our tips, you can head over to the resume builder and start building your resume on the go as you read this guide.
New to resume-making? Give our ‘7 Resume Tips’ video a watch before diving into the article!
#1. Pick the Right Resume Format
Before you start filling in the contents of your resume, you have to make sure it’s going to look good.
After all, the first thing hiring managers notice is what your resume looks like, and then they start reading it. So, this is your best chance to make a great first impression.
Start by choosing the right resume format.
There are three types of resume formats out there:
- Reverse-chronological. This is by far the most popular resume format worldwide and, as such, it’s the best format for most job-seekers.
- Functional. This resume format focuses more on skills than work experience. It’s a good choice if you’re just getting started with your career and have little to no experience in the field.
- Combination. The combination resume format is a great choice for experienced job-seekers with a very diverse skill set. It’s useful if you’re applying for a role that requires expertise in several different fields and you want to show all that in your resume.
So, which one should you go for?
In 99% of cases, you want to stick to the reverse-chronological resume format . It’s the most popular format and what hiring managers expect to see. So, in the rest of this guide, we’re going to focus on teaching you how to make a reverse-chronological resume.
Fix Your Resume’s Layout
With formatting out of the way, let’s talk about your resume’s layout , which determines the overall look of your resume.
Does it look organized or cluttered? Is it too short or too long? Is it boring and easy to ignore, or is it reader-friendly and attention-grabbing?
Here are some of the best practices you should apply:
- Stick to one page. You should only go for a two-page resume if you have decades of experience and you’re sure the extra space will add significant value. Hiring managers in big companies get hundreds of applications per job opening. They’re not going to spend their valuable time reading your life story!
- Add clear section headings. Pick a heading and use it for all the section headers so the hiring manager can easily navigate through your resume.
- Adjust the margins. Without the right amount of white space, your resume will end up looking overcrowded with information. Set your margins to one inch on all sides so your text fits just right on the page.
- Choose a professional font. We’d recommend sticking to a font that’s professional but not overused. For example, Ubuntu, Roboto, or Overpass. Avoid Times New Roman, and never use Comic Sans.
- Set the correct font size. As a rule of thumb, go for 11-12 pt for normal text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
- Use a PDF file. Always save your resume as a PDF file, unless the employer specifically requests otherwise. Word files are popular, but there’s a good chance they’ll mess up your resume’s formatting.
Another thing you need to consider in terms of your resume’s layout is whether you’re going for a traditional-looking resume template or something a bit more modern :
If you’re pursuing a career in a more traditional industry, like law , banking , or finance , you might want to stick to the first.
But if you’re applying to a tech company where imagination and innovation are valued, you can pick a more creative resume template .
Want to Save Time? Use a (Free) Resume Template
Anyone who’s ever tried creating a resume from scratch knows how boring the formatting can be.
Before you can even start filling in the contents, you need to tweak the margins, adjust font sizes, and make sure everything fits into one page while still looking good.
What if you could skip past all that and still create a compelling resume?
Try one of our free resume templates . They’re pre-formatted, so all you have to do is fill in the contents.
They’re also created in collaboration with recruiters from around the globe, ensuring that the templates are visually appealing and ATS-friendly!
See for yourself how one of our templates compares to a resume created in a standard text editor:
#2. Add Your Contact Information
Now that we’ve got all the formatting out of the way, let’s get into what your resume is all about— the information you put on it .
The first thing you want to do when filling out the contents of your resume is to add your contact information .
This section is pretty straightforward but crucial. Your contact details belong at the top of your resume in a designated resume header , so the hiring manager can easily find them.
Even if everything else about your resume is perfect, that all flops if you misspell your email address or have a typo in your phone number. If the hiring manager can’t contact you, it’s a missed opportunity.
So, double-check, and even triple-check your contact information section and make sure everything is factually correct and up-to-date.
Must-Have Information
- Full name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top of your resume.
- Email address. Stick to an address that’s professional and easy to spell, like a combination of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected])
- Phone number. Add a reliable number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
- Location. Add your city and state/country. If you plan to relocate for the job or want a remote position, specify it on your resume.
Optional Information
- Job title. Add your professional title underneath. Write it down word for word, whether it’s “Digital Marketing Specialist” or “Junior Data Scientist.” Just don’t make up job titles like “Marketing Wizzard” or “Data Manipulator.” They’re not quirky; they’re just unprofessional.
- LinkedIn profile . We recommend that you include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile since over 77% of hiring managers use the platform when evaluating a candidate.
- Relevant links. Include links to personal websites or any social media profiles that are relevant to your field. For example, a developer could include a Github profile, while a graphic designer could link their Behance or Driblle account, and so on.
- Date of birth. Unless this is specifically required in the job ad, the hiring manager doesn’t need to know how old you are. It’s not important for their decision-making, and at worst, it might lead to age-based discrimination.
- Unprofessional email address. Your quirky, old high school email address doesn’t belong on your resume. Instead of [email protected] , go for a [email protected] type of address.
- Headshot. (USA, UK or Ireland) Depending on the country where you’re applying, it might even be illegal to include a picture of yourself on your resume . While it’s the norm to include a picture in most of Europe and Asia, always check the regulations for each specific country or industry you’re applying to.
All clear? Good! Now, let’s look at what a great example of a resume's contact information section looks like:
#3. Write a Resume Headline (Summary or Objective)
It's no secret that recruiters spend an average of less than seven seconds on a resume .
When you receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications daily, it's physically impossible to spend too much time on each.
So, what the hiring managers do to go through resumes more effectively is to skim through each resume and read it in depth only if it piques their interest.
This is where the resume headline comes in.
Placed right next to (or underneath) your contact information, this brief paragraph is the first thing the hiring manager is going to read on your resume.
Now, depending on how far along in your career you are, your resume headline can be either a resume summary or a resume objective.
So, how do you choose between a resume summary and a resume objective? Here’s all you need to know:
Resume Summary
A resume summary, as the name suggests, is a two to three-sentence summary of your career so far. If done right, it shows that you’re a qualified candidate at a glance and gets the hiring manager to give you a chance.
Here’s what your resume summary should include:
- Your job title and years of experience.
- A couple of your greatest professional achievements or core responsibilities.
- Your most relevant skills for the job.
Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary:
Experienced Java Developer with 5 years of experience in building scalable and efficient applications. Contributed to a major project that enhanced application performance by 25%. Strong background in Spring Framework and microservices. Aiming to apply robust coding skills to develop innovative software solutions at XYZ Tech Solutions.
Unless you’re a recent graduate or amid a career change, we recommend you stick to a resume summary. Otherwise, a resume objective might be a better option for you.
Resume Objective
A resume objective is supposed to express your professional goals and aspirations, academic background, and any relevant skills you may have for the job.
It communicates your motivation for getting into a new field, so it’s the go-to headline for recent graduates and those going through a career change. As with a resume summary, a resume objective should be brief—around two to four sentences long.
So, here’s what it would look like if you’re a student:
Hard-working recent graduate with a B.A. in Graphic Design from New York State University seeking new opportunities. 3+ years of practical experience working with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, creating illustrations and UX/UI design projects. Looking to grow as a designer and perfect my art at XYZ Design Studio.
Or, on the other hand, if you’re going through a career change, it might look more like this:
IT project manager with 5+ years of experience in software development. Managed a team of developers to create products for several industries, such as FinTech and HR tech. Looking to leverage my experience in managing outsourced products as a Product Owner at Company XYZ.
#4. Prioritize Your Work Experience
The most important part of your resume is your work experience.
This is where you get to sell yourself and show off your previous accomplishments and responsibilities.
If you manage to master this section, you’ll know most of what’s there to know about how to make a resume.
There are plenty of good practices for writing your work experience . But before we dive into all the nits and grits, let's start with the basics.
The standard format for each work experience entry is as follows:
- Job title/position. Your job title goes on top of each work experience entry. When the hiring manager looks at your resume, you want them to know, at a glance, that you have relevant work experience for the job.
- Company name/location/description. Mention the name of the employer and the general location, such as the city and state/country where you worked. In some cases, you may also want to briefly describe the company, like when the organization isn’t particularly well-known.
- Dates employed. Add the approximate timeframe of your employment at each company. You don’t need to give exact dates since the standard format for this is mm/yyyy.
- Achievements and responsibilities. This is the core of each work experience entry. Depending on your field, you want to list either your achievements or responsibilities. List them in bullet points instead of paragraphs, so they’ll be easier to read.
Here’s a real-life example:
Your work experience entries should always be listed in reverse chronological order , starting with your most recent job and working your way back into the past.
Now that you know how to list your experience, we’re going to show you how to write about it in a way that makes you stand out from the competition, starting with:
Are you a student with no work experience? We’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to writing a resume with no experience here.
Focus on Achievements Whenever Possible
One of the most common resume mistakes is only listing responsibilities in your work experience section.
Here’s the thing—in most cases, the hiring manager knows exactly what your job responsibilities are.
For example, if you’re a sales manager, your responsibilities would be:
- Reach out to potential clients over the phone or email.
- Maintain relationships with existing company clients and upsell relevant products.
- Tracking and reporting on leads in CRM.
Coincidentally, this is also the same list of responsibilities for every sales manager out there. So, 90% of all other resumes probably mention the same thing.
To stand out from the competition, you want to focus on writing achievements in your resume instead. These can be how you helped your previous company grow, reach quarterly quotas, and so on.
Let’s compare how responsibilities hold up next to achievements for the same job:
- Exceeded sales team KPIs by 30%+ for 3 months straight.
- Generated over $24,000 in sales in 1 month.
- Generated leads through cold-calling
- Managed existing company clients
Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there just aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you’re a warehouse worker .
Your day-to-day responsibilities probably include:
- Loading, unloading, and setting up equipment daily.
- Packaging finished products and getting them ready for shipping.
- Assisting in opening and closing the warehouse.
In fields like this, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself through achievements, so it’s okay to stick to responsibilities instead. You can still make them shine by following the rest of our advice about listing your work experience.
Keep in mind, though, that in some fields, there aren’t that many achievements you can mention. Let’s say you work in a warehouse. Your day-to-day responsibilities probably involve:
- Loading, unloading and setting up equipment on a daily basis.
- Package finished product and get it ready for shipping.
- Assist in opening and closing the warehouse.
In such fields, it’s pretty hard to distinguish yourself, so it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities instead.
Tailor Your Resume to the Job
Tailoring is what sets an amazing resume apart from an okay one.
Hiring managers don’t need to know about every single job you’ve ever worked at or every single skill that you have.
They only want to know about your jobs, experiences, or skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.
For example, if you’re applying for a job doing Google Ads, you don’t need to talk about your SEO internship from eight years ago.
By focusing your resume on whatever is important for the specific role, you’re a lot more likely to stand out and catch the hiring manager’s attention.
Let’s take a look at an example of a job ad:
As you can see, we’ve highlighted the most important requirements.
To tailor your resume accordingly, you just need to mention how you meet each of these requirements in your resume.
You can highlight your relevant achievements and qualifications in different parts of your resume, such as:
- In your resume summary, where you should recap your years of experience.
- Throughout your work experience section, where you should list achievements and responsibilities that reflect your social media marketing experience.
- In your education section, where you can let the hiring manager know you have the degree that they’re looking for.
Include the Right Amount of Work Experience
If you’ve got over a decade’s worth of work experience, you’re probably wondering whether all of it belongs on your resume. In most cases, you’d end up writing a novel if you listed everything you’ve ever done, and that’s not how long a resume should be .
If you’re new to the job market, on the other hand, you probably don’t have any experience, and you’re wondering what you could even add to this section.
So, here’s how much information your resume should include, depending on your level of experience:
- No experience. If you’re looking for your first job , you won’t have any work experience to fill this section with. So, you can either keep it empty and focus on all the other sections or fill it up with any experience gained in student organizations, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and other projects.
- Entry-level. List all your work experience so far. While some of it won’t be relevant, it can still show the hiring manager that you do have some actual work experience.
- Mid-level. Only mention relevant work experience to the position you’re applying for. There’s no need to waste space on jobs that aren’t related to what you’re after.
- Senior-level. List up to 15 years of relevant work experience, tops. If your most recent experience is as a marketing executive , the hiring manager doesn’t care how you started your career as a junior marketing specialist 23 years ago.
Consider Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Software
Did you know that over 70% of resumes don’t even make it to the hiring manager ?
Most companies these days use ATS to evaluate hundreds of resumes instantaneously and automatically filter out the ones that don’t meet their criteria.
For example, if a resume doesn’t mention a specific skill or isn’t formatted correctly, the ATS will automatically reject it.
Fortunately, there are some easy ways to make an ATS-friendly resume .
Here are a couple of tips to help you get past those pesky robots:
- Stick to one page. Sometimes employers set a limit on how long a resume should be. This means that if your resume is longer than one page, it might get automatically disqualified.
- Incorporate keywords. Tailoring your resume to the job helps a ton with beating the ATS. Just carefully read the job description to find hints for what the ATS will be looking for. Then, whenever you find keywords related to your responsibilities and achievements, make sure to include them in your work experience section.
- Use an active voice. Passive voice is too vague and unclear, so make sure to use active voice as much as possible when describing your previous jobs. (E.g.: “Managed a team of ten people,” instead of “ A team of ten people was managed by me.” )
- Leverage powerful action words. Instead of starting each of your sentences with “was responsible for," make your work experience impactful by using words that can grab attention. Saying that you “spearheaded” or “facilitated” something sounds a lot more impressive than “helped.”
Want to make sure your resume formatting passes the ATS test? Choose one of our tried and tested ATS-friendly resume templates , and you’ll be good to go!
#5. List Your Education
The next section on your resume is dedicated to your academic qualifications. Let’s start with the basics!
Here’s how you should format the education section on your resume :
- Program Name. Your major and degree type should be listed. (E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration” )
- University Name. Add the name of the institution. (E.g.: “New York State University” )
- Dates Attended. Use a mm/yyyy format for the dates you attended. (E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012” )
- Location. If your university is less well-known, you can also add the location. (E.g.: “Stockholm, Sweden” )
- GPA. Use the appropriate grading system for the country you’re applying to work in. (E.g.: In the USA, it would be “3.9 GPA” )
- Honors. Add any honors and distinctions you’ve been given. (E.g.: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude )
- Achievements. You can mention interesting papers you’ve written, projects you’ve done, or relevant coursework you’ve excelled in.
- Minor. “Minor in Psychology”
Pretty simple, right? Now let’s see what an education section looks like in practice:
This example includes all the necessary information, plus an eye-catching award and relevant classes this candidate has taken.
Resume Education Tips
Now that you know how to list your education on your resume, let’s take this section to the next level.
Just follow these expert tips:
- If you’re making a resume as a student and don’t have any work experience yet, you can list your education section at the beginning of the page instead of work experience.
- You can add your expected graduation date if you’re still pursuing your degree.
- If you already have relevant work experience, just keep this section short and sweet. Recent graduates can expand on their education more and add optional information like projects, classes, academic achievements, etc.
- Always list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with your highest degree on top. Your highest and most recent degree is usually enough, so if you have a Master’s degree that’s relevant to the job, there’s no need to mention your earlier degrees.
- Don’t add your high school degree to your resume if you already have a university degree. It doesn’t have as much weight, and you can use the space for something else.
- Only mention your GPA if you had an impressive academic career. Anything below a 3.5 GPA doesn’t need to be on your resume.
Are you in the process of applying for college? Check out our guide to writing a college application resume to wow that admissions officer!
#6. Emphasize Your Know-How in the Skills Section
After your work experience, your skills are the first thing the hiring manager is going to look for. In fact, together, work experience and skills make up 90% of the hiring decision .
So, this is the place where you want to mention all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job.
There are two types of skills you can include when writing your resume:
- Hard Skills. These are measurable abilities. What you can list here can be anything from coding in Python to knowing how to cook Thai cuisine.
- Soft Skills. Also known as personal skills, these are a mix of communication skills , personal traits, career attributes, and more. They can include leadership, critical thinking, and time management , just to name a few.
Your resume should always cover both hard skills and soft skills . Here’s an example in action:
Now, let’s discuss how you should list your most important skills on your resume.
There are a few essential steps you need to follow:
Always List Hard and Soft Skills Separately
Your resume should be easy and neat to navigate. The hiring manager shouldn’t have to waste time looking for a specific skill because you didn’t separate it into the appropriate subsection.
So, just create separate categories for your hard and soft skills.
Depending on your field, you could customize the name of your “hard skills” subsection to something like “technical skills," “marketing skills," or something else related to your field.
Let’s look at an example of what skills look like on a project manager’s resume :
Methodologies & Tools
- Agile Methodology
- SCRUM Framework
- Waterfall Project Management
- Microsoft Project
- Critical Path Method (CPM)
- Earned Value Management (EVM)
- Risk Management
Soft Skills
- Team Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Negotiation
Tailor Your Skills to the Job
You might have some awesome skills, but the hiring manager only needs to know about the ones that are relevant to the job.
For example, if you’re applying for a job as an accountant, your gourmet chef skills shouldn’t be on your resume.
Look at the job ad and list at least two to three essential skills you have that are required for the role. Remember—there’s no need to list every skill you have here; just keep it relevant.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Graphic Design or a related field.
- Tech-savvy, with some background in CMS systems such as WordPress.
- Thrives in a stressful environment and juggles multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Self-reliant, with the ability to manage their own work.
- A can-do attitude and an outside-the-box thinker.
- Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages.
- Basic understanding of Office software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
So, the must-have hard skills here are Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Keynote, and Pages. Other good computer skills to have are WordPress or similar CMS systems.
While you can also mention Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, it’s pretty much assumed that you know how to use them since they’re required for most office jobs.
List Hard Skills with Experience Levels
For each hard skill you list on your resume, you should also mention your proficiency level. This tells employers what they can expect from you and how much training you might need.
- Beginner. You have some experience with the skill, whether it’s from some entry-level practice or classroom education.
- Intermediate. You’ve used the skill in a work environment with good understanding.
- Advanced. You’re the go-to person for this skill in your office. You can coach other employees, and you understand the skill at a high level.
- Expert. You’ve applied this skill to more than a handful of different projects and organizations. You’re the go-to person for advice about the skill, not just in your office but even amongst some of the best professionals in your field.
Just make sure to never lie about your actual skill level. Even if you get the job, once you need those skills you exaggerated, it will be pretty awkward for both you and your employer.
Include Transferable Skills
These are the types of skills that are useful for almost any job out there.
Transferable skills can be both soft skills (e.g.: teamwork, creativity, problem-solving skills, and others) and hard skills (MS Office Suite, HTML, writing, etc.)
Whatever job you’re applying to, chances are you have transferable skills from your experience that can come in handy one way or another. So, feel free to include them, even if they’re not specifically required for the position.
Not sure which skills to mention on your resume for your specific field? Check out our list of 101+ essential skills for inspiration!
#7. Leverage Optional Resume Sections
The sections we’ve covered so far are must-haves for any resume. They’re the bread-and-butter for any job application, and if you get them right, you’ll land any job you apply to.
But if you have some leftover space, there are a few optional sections you can choose from to give your resume a boost!
Are you bi-lingual? Or even better – multi-lingual? You should always mention that on your resume!
Even if the position doesn’t require you to know a specific language, it can still come in handy at some point. At the end of the day, it’s always better to know more languages than less.
To list languages in your resume , just write them down and assign them the appropriate level:
- Intermediate
You can also use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) or the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency scales.
As a given, you should never lie about your language skills. You never know—your interviewer might turn out to be fluent in the language or even be a native speaker!
Hobbies and Interests
If you want to spice up your resume, hobbies and interests could be just what you need.
While this section isn’t a game-changer, it can help the hiring manager see who you are as an individual.
For example, if you listed “teamwork” as one of your skills, hobbies like team sports can back up your claim.
And who knows? Maybe you and your interviewer have some hobbies or interests in common!
Volunteering Experience
If you’re the type of person who devotes their free time to helping others while expecting nothing in return, chances are that you’re the type of employee who’s in it for more than just the money.
Seeing volunteer experience on your resume tells hiring managers that you’re a loyal employee who’s after something meaningful.
Several studies show that listing your volunteer experience can boost your chances of getting hired, especially if you have little to no work experience.
Certifications
Hiring managers love candidates who invest in themselves, and that’s exactly what they see when you list certifications on your resume .
If you value continuous learning and strive to expand your skill set, that’s always a plus.
Certifications can also show employers how much expertise you have.
For example, if you’re a Microsoft Cloud Engineer and you specialize in Microsoft Technologies, you should definitely include all essential certifications on your resume, such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert one.
Awards and Recognitions
There’s no harm in showing off a little on your resume. After all, you want to be a candidate that shines above the rest.
So, if you’ve received any awards or recognitions that make you stand out in your field, make sure to add them.
For example, if you’ve been recognized for your contributions to data science or received a hard-to-come-by scholarship , mention it in your resume. Just keep your entries here relevant to the field you’re applying to.
Publications
Whether you’re a freelance writer or a distinguished academic, publications are always impressive.
If you have any published works (online or in an academic journal), you can add them to your resume. Just make sure to include a link so the hiring manager knows where to check your work!
Are you looking for a career in academia? Check out our guide to writing the perfect academic CV to get started!
Working on side projects can show off your passion for your field. Whether they’re university class projects or part-time entrepreneurial endeavors, they’re relevant.
For example, if you worked on a mock software product as part of a university competition, it shows you went through every step of product creation, from ideation to creating a marketing strategy.
This project also shows off your organizational skills , and if you mention it in your resume, you stand a better chance of landing the job you had your sights set on.
But projects can also be personal, not academic. For example, you might manage an Etsy store where you sell hand-made arts and crafts to customers online. This is a great opportunity to highlight your creativity, management, and customer service skills .
Overall, hiring managers love employees who do cool work in their free time, so projects are always a great section to add to your resume.
Looking to kickstart your career? Check out our guide on how to get an internship for useful tips and real-life examples!
Extracurricular Activities
Every college freshman knows that extracurricular experience can make a difference in their application.
Especially if you don’t have a lot of experience outside of school, extracurricular activities are a great way to show potential employers your skills and give them insight into you as a person. Different clubs and after-school projects can help you gain real-life skills and considerably increase your chances of landing your first job after college.
For example, joining a student government organization can hone your leadership skills and teach you how to work as part of a team.
For example, if you’re part of a student government or public speaking club, these activities can help you hone your leadership and presentation skills.
11+ Expert Resume Tips
You’ve got the gist of how to make a resume. Now, it’s time to make it really stand out from the crowd!
Follow these exclusive resume tips to take your resume game to the next level:
- Match the professional title underneath your name to the job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
- Mention any promotions from your previous jobs. Use the work experience entries for them to focus on the achievements that helped you earn them.
- Describe your achievements using Laszlo Bock’s formula : accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z . This way, your work experience can go the extra mile and show the hiring manager what you can bring to the table.
- Always list your achievements and responsibilities in concise bullet points. This makes your resume more reader-friendly, and it’s more likely that the hiring manager will see your impressive achievements at a glance.
- Don’t use personal pronouns like “I” or “me,” and don’t refer to yourself by name. Stick to a slightly altered third person, like “managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.” instead of “he managed data integrity at XYZ Inc.”
- Name your resume sections correctly, or it might get rejected by the ATS. Swapping out quirky names like “career history” or “expertise” for “work experience” and "skills" makes it easier for the hiring manager to find what they’re looking for, too.
- Prioritize important keywords instead of adding all of them. Make sure the relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences you add all make sense in context, too. Your goal is to get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.
- Focus on transferable skills if you don’t have a lot of relevant work experience. Any extracurricular activities or personal projects can help you stand out here.
- Add a strategic pop of color to headings, bullet points, or key elements you want to highlight. It can help your resume stand out, but don’t overdo it—you want the information to be more impressive than the color palette.
- Don’t include the line “references available upon request.” Hiring managers already know they can request a list of references from you, so there’s no need to waste valuable space on it.
- Make sure your resume is optimized for mobile viewing. Most hiring managers use their mobile phones as often as desktop computers, so save your resume to a PDF file and make sure your formatting stays intact across any device.
- Rename the resume file you plan to send so it includes your name and the name of the position you’re applying for. It’s a small detail that can turn into a crucial mistake if you forget it.
- Read your resume out loud when you’re done. This is a great way to catch awkward phrases or spelling mistakes you might have missed otherwise.
- Use a tool like DocSend to track your resume. You’ll get a notification any time someone opens your resume, and you can see how long they spend reading it.
FREE Resume Checklist
Are you already done with your resume? Let’s see how it holds up!
Go through our checklist for perfecting your resume and see where you stand!
If you missed some points, just go through your resume one more time and perfect it.
And if you ☑’d everything—congrats! You’ve learned all there is to know about writing a resume, and you’re good to go with your job search.
Need to write a CV instead of a resume? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a CV with dozens of examples!
9 Resume Templates for Different Industries
Looking to create an effective resume without dealing with the formatting hassle? Just choose one of the templates below.
#1. Traditional Resume Template
Good for traditional industries like finance, banking, law, and manufacturing.
#2. Modern Resume Template
Good for both contemporary and forward-looking industries, including entrepreneurship, medical technology, and engineering.
#3. Creative Resume Template
Good for creative industries, including entertainment, design, and architecture.
#4. Minimalistic Resume Template
Good for experienced professionals in basically any industry who want to let their achievements do the talking.
#5. IT Resume Template
Good for any IT-related profession like software development, cyber security, and DevOps engineering.
#6. Tech Resume Template
Good for the tech industry and everything it encompasses.
#7. College Resume Template
Good for college students and recent graduates alike.
#8. General Resume Template
Good for multiple industries, including HR, education, and customer service.
#9. Executive Resume Template
Good for senior professionals across different industries, including hospitality, marketing, and logistics.
17+ Resumes for Different Jobs
Knowing how to write a resume is one thing, but making a resume that stands out is something entirely different. Without inspiration, even top career experts might stumble on a roadblock or two.
Check out the following effective resume examples for specific jobs to get a better sense of what a good resume looks like:
#1. Nurse Practitioner Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a nurse resume here.
#2. Data Scientist Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a data scientist resume here.
#3. Business Analyst Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a business analyst resume here.
#4. Digital Marketing Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a digital marketing resume here.
#5. Software Engineer Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a software engineer resume here.
#6. Construction Project Manager Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a construction project manager resume here.
#7. Customer Service Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a customer service resume here.
#8. High School Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a high school resume here.
#9. Student Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a student resume here.
#10. Server Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a server resume here.
#11. Actor Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing an actor resume here.
#12. Web Developer Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a web developer resume here.
#13. Engineering Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing an engineering resume here.
#14. Computer Science Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a computer science resume here.
#15. Architect Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a data analyst resume here.
#17. Remote Job Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a remote job resume here.
#18. Sales Associate Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a sales associate resume here.
#19. Receptionist Resume Example
Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist resume here.
Want to see more examples? Check out our compilation of 80+ resume examples for different fields .
- Administrative Assistant Resume
- Bartender Resume
- DevOps Engineer Resume
- Executive Assistant Resume
- Flight Attendant Resume
- Graphic Designer Resume
- Paralegal Resume
- Pharmacist Resume
- Recruiter Resume
- Supervisor Resume
Next Steps After Your Resume
Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about how to make a resume, it’s time to talk about the rest of your job application.
After all, your resume is only the first step in your job search. To land the job you deserve, you also need to write a captivating cover letter and ace that upcoming interview. Here’s how:
#1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter
The companion piece to every resume is the cover letter.
Most job-seekers flinch when they hear that they have to write a cover letter. What do you even mention in a cover letter, anyway? If you were good at writing cover letters, you’d be applying for a job as a writer !
In reality, though, writing a cover letter is very simple once you know its purpose.
Think of your cover letter as a direct message to the hiring manager. It’s your chance to briefly explain why you’re such an awesome fit for the position. And with a few cover letter tips to point you in the right direction, you’ll write the perfect cover letter for your job application.
Just follow this structure:
- Add the contact details. Include the same contact information as on your resume, plus additional contact details for the hiring manager, including their name, job title, the company’s name, and location.
- Introduce yourself. Start your cover letter by mentioning who you are, what your work experience is, and why you’re interested in the position. Mention a standout achievement or two, relevant skills, and what you’d like to do for the company you’re applying for.
- Explain why you’d excel at the job. Find the requirements in the job ad that you meet, and elaborate on how you fulfill the most important ones. Research the company so you know what you like about it, and mention it in your cover letter. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the job and confidence that you’ll be a great fit for their team.
- Wrap it up politely. Conclude your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and thanking the hiring manager for their time. Then add a call to action, such as “Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application in greater detail.” Then, add a closing line and follow it with your full name.
Sounds easy, right? Here’s a real-life example to drive the point home:
Do you need more help perfecting your cover letter? Learn what the most common cover letter mistakes are and check out cover letter examples for all professions here.
#2. How to Ace Your Next Interview
Once you’ve perfected both your resume and cover letter, there’s only one thing left.
It’s time for the final step—the dreaded job interview.
Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, you probably hate the interviewing process. No matter how experienced you are, it can be nerve-wracking. Sitting there while someone’s prodding into your past experiences and judging you isn’t fun.
But did you know that most interviewers ask the same questions?
That’s right—all you have to do is learn how to answer some of the most common interview questions, and you’ll be an interview away from landing your dream job!
Just check out our complete guide to the 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers and learn how to ace your next interview.
FAQs on How to Make a Resume
Do you still have some questions about making a resume? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!
#1. What does a good resume look like in 2024?
For your resume to look good in 2024, make sure it’s organized and clean and isn’t longer than one page.
Be sure to include information that adds value to your application—leave out the focus on your relevant work experience and skills that you can back up, and list as many achievements as possible.
If you’re using a resume template, choose one based on your industry. Conservative industries like law, banking, and business require more traditional resume templates. But if you’re going for an industry like design, architecture, or marketing, you can go for a creative resume template .
Remote work is also big in 2024, so if that’s what you’re after, tailor your resume to match the job you want.
#2. How do you make a resume in Word?
The best way to create a resume in Word is to use a pre-designed Microsoft Word template. To access them, you should:
- Open MS Word
- Click “file” from the menu bar
- Select “new”
- Type “resume templates” in the search bar
That said, Word resume templates are generic, hard to personalize, and overall not very stylish.
Want a resume that looks good and is extremely easy to make? Check out resume templates to get started!
#3. How do I write a resume for my first job?
If you’re writing your first-ever resume for an entry-level position, the hiring manager won’t expect you to have any work experience.
However, you can make up for your lack of experience with your skills and academic achievements.
For example, you can take advantage of extracurricular activities, internships, volunteering experiences, and other non-professional experiences. You can use them to highlight the skills you’ve gained and what you’ve achieved so far.
So, your first job resume should have a resume objective, emphasize your education, and replace your work experience with any internships, volunteering, independent projects, or other experiences.
#4. How to make a resume on Google Docs?
You can make a resume on Google Docs by choosing one of their templates and filling it in on the go.
All you have to do is go to your Google Drive’s template gallery, choose your preferred template, fill in your information, and your Google Docs resume is ready to go!
That said, Google Docs templates aren’t the most user-friendly choice. You don’t have much flexibility with the layout and formatting isn’t that easy. For example, you tweak a section to the slightest, and the whole resume becomes a mess.
If you want an easier option, check out our resume builder !
#5. What kind of resume do employers prefer?
Typically, employers prefer one-page-long resumes that follow the reverse chronological format.
Hiring managers receive hundreds of resumes every day, so they don't have the time to read three-page resumes. Try one of our one-page resume templates so you don’t go over the recommended resume length.
Meanwhile, the reverse-chronological format is the most popular because it draws attention to your most recent jobs and professional achievements, which is the #1 most important thing hiring managers look at when evaluating a resume.
#6. How many jobs should you put on your resume?
You should only include relevant job positions on your resume.
This means that your work experience section should be tailored to the job you are applying for. If you’ve worked five different jobs and they can all add value to your current application, then you should include all five.
If, on the other hand, you’re applying for, say, a customer service position and some of your past jobs don’t have anything to do with customer service, you should skip them.
#7. Should I put my address on my resume?
You can put your location (city, state, or country) on your resume, but you don’t need to put your entire physical address.
Putting a physical address on a resume was the norm back when companies would contact you via mail. In today’s world, everyone communicates via email, which is why adding a correct and professional email address to your contact information section is far more important than putting your physical address.
So, just include your location or-–if you’re a remote worker—specify you prefer to work remotely by writing “working remotely from [location].”
#8. What information should I leave out of my resume?
As a general rule, you shouldn’t include your birthday or your headshot on your resume. This norm varies from country to country but it applies to the USA, Canada, and UK.
If you have plenty of achievements to list under your work experience, then you can leave your basic work responsibilities out of your resume.
In your education section, you should only include your highest and most recent degree. So, if you hold a Ph.D., you can list that and your Master’s degree and leave your Bachelor’s degree and high school diploma out.
Finally, leave out any skills that aren’t relevant to the job you’re applying for.
#9. Is a resume a CV?
Depending on where you are, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a resume might be completely different things.
In most of the world, though, including Europe and Asia, they are used interchangeably for the same document. Both CVs and resumes are one to two pages long, and list skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for.
Sometimes more detailed resumes that go over one page are referred to as CVs. These are typically only used by senior professionals, executives, CEOs, etc.
In the USA, however, a CV is a completely different document. Typically, CVs are detailed and comprehensive documents that highlight your entire academic and professional history. They’re often used for academic, scientific, or research positions, which is why this type of CV can also be referred to as an academic CV.
You can create your CV using one of our CV templates !
#10. Should I write my own resume?
Yes, you should always write your own resume.
Your resume is your opportunity to show the hiring manager your communication, writing, and presentation skills . Employers also evaluate you based on how effectively you can convey information about yourself, and there’s no one that can represent you better than yourself.
Writing your own resume lets you introduce yourself authentically. You have the best understanding of your skills and experiences, and you can personalize them to make your resume stand out.
And, as a bonus, the experience of writing your resume yourself can be reflective and insightful, so it might help you understand your professional journey and career goals better.
#11. Can a resume be two pages?
Generally, we strongly recommend that your resume stick to one page.
Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes every day, and keeping your resume to one page increases the odds that they’ll see your qualifications faster.
In some cases, like when you have a lot of relevant experience, your resume can go over two pages. But this exception is reserved for senior professionals with over a decade of relevant experience and tons of skills and achievements that simply can’t fit on one page.
#12. Is a simple resume okay?
Absolutely, a simple resume is often more than okay—it's preferable.
Before your resume even gets to the hiring manager, a complicated layout could get it rejected by the applicant tracking system (ATS). A simple resume template can help get your application straight to the hiring manager.
A clean layout can also make sure that your resume is easily readable and looks professional. This can focus the hiring manager's attention on your work experience and skills without excessive clutter or flashy colors to distract them.
Key Takeaways
And that’s a wrap!
If you’ve followed all of our advice until now, congrats! You’re probably an expert on how to make a resume.
To recap, let’s go through some of the most important lessons we’ve learned so far...
- Use the right resume builder to make the process as smooth as possible. You don’t want to mess around with formatting for hours before even starting to work on your resume!
- Focus on your achievements over responsibilities. This can help you stand out from all the other applicants, especially if you back your claims up with data.
- Include all the must-have sections, like the resume summary, work experience, education, and skills. Then leverage optional sections if you have leftover space.
- Tailor your resume for the job you’re applying for. Everything listed on your resume should be relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, and you should write a new resume for every new job application.
- Take the time to perfect your cover letter. It’s just as important as your resume, so make sure you pay as much attention to it!
To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.
- Services & Software
Article updated on October 16, 2024 at 8:32 AM PDT
Best Resume Writing Services for 2024
The best resume writing services can help improve -- or validate -- the first impression you'll have on an organization. Here are the best ones we've experienced.
Our Experts
- She received the Renau Writing Scholarship in 2016 from the University of Louisville's communication department.
- Apple software beta tester, "Helps make our computers and phones work!" - Zach's grandparents
CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.
Writing resumes, like any other type of writing, is a formulaic art. However, this art is crucial to getting a job, and the formula to writing a good one is ever-evolving. Since most of us aren't HR experts, it's hard to know when we have the right resume for the current job market -- a landscape that's ever-evolving with the rise of AI . This is why you should use a resume writing service, at least once, to either improve what you have or create something new and increase your chances of landing an interview.
Some of what you'll need to include in your resume will depend on the industry you want to work in. While it can vary, employers will likely look at your education, work history and skills. We've combed through dozens of resume services looking at the most helpful features across a variety of needs. We looked especially closely at the number of custom templates, the amount of guidance the service offered, the ease of navigation and the robustness of the service's privacy policy. Each of these templates and professional writing services will help you create a complete resume that best reflects your skills and experience at an affordable price.
What's the best resume builder website?
The best resume template and builder should give you a variety of options to customize your resume. Resume.com has many options and customization features that make it a useful tool for almost any candidate applying to any job. You can upload and edit an existing resume, customize an available template from its collection or let the service guide you through creating one from scratch. Resume.com also offers helpful guidance throughout your resume creation process, making sure you include and optimize all your content. Once you're happy with your resume, you can download it for free in multiple formats.
Depending on where you're at in the job application process, you might need more guidance than a template. These professional writing services will pair you with experienced writers and coaches to help you craft and perfect resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters and more. These services include more personalized coaching and features, but they tend to be more expensive. We've collected a range of options for your budget and needs. Because your resume likely includes your contact information and some personal information, we've also included information about each service's privacy policy.
Best resume templates and builders of 2024
A well-constructed resume can help you stand out during a job search.
- Can create new resume or customize templates
- Many free features, guidance while writing
- Integrated with Indeed job search site
- Difficulty unsubscribing from paid services
Best free resume builder
Resume.com is a free resume writer offering dozens of templates for creating your resume or cover letter, as well as job boards and career advice. You have the option to upload and edit an existing resume, create a new one, or customize one of the sample resumes offered on the site. It's intuitive and easy to use, and it creates a professional-looking final product.
When starting from scratch, you'll go section by section, entering your education, employment history, hobbies and interests, professional skills, languages and references. Resume.com provides question prompts and tips for guidance, as well as career-specific examples you can add if you're struggling to find the right words. You can also choose to forgo any of these sections, rearrange sections and add custom ones depending on what you need. As you update and save each section, you can see how it will appear on the page on your resume preview to the right. You can also change the template, font style and size, or spacing at any time and see it update in real-time in the preview.
Once you're done, you can download your new resume (in PDF, DocX, RTF or TXT format), create a custom URL or print it out. You also have the option to upload it to Indeed, a job search site that partners with Resume.com . The account you make will work with both Indeed and Resume.com . On the privacy side, the site does collect user information. If you want to delete your account, simply click your profile icon and then Account . Clicking Close My Account deletes your account and your data. If you didn't make an account, you can still choose Delete Guest Data . You can also request your data, and the company will send you an email with what it has collected.
On the review site Trustpilot , Resume.com only has 38 reviews, but of those, 53% of them awarded the site four or five stars. Some negative reviews speak of difficulty unsubscribing from paid services, so read carefully as you use the free aspects of this service.
- Guided help writing work experience descriptions
- Cover letter and CV help
- Easy to change layout and color styles
- Must pay to download resume
Best option for your first resume
Resume genius.
The website Resume Genius says you can "make a professional resume in 12 minutes." We tested it out and indeed had a solid first draft of an easy resume completed in about 10 minutes. Resume Genius takes you step-by-step through the process, prompting you with questions about your education and work experience to help you fill out the applicable sections. Resume Genius is particularly helpful because you can search for a job and see prewritten text for the description that you can add or edit. When finished, you can easily toggle between different templates to see what looks best for the final product. You also have the option to directly share your resume with Indeed or Resume Library.
The site can also help you build cover letters and curriculum vitae. After you input all your information, you can choose different layout styles and colors. It's easy to move through, but you have to do it in order and fill in all the information before continuing. Resume Genius also offers examples of resumes, CVs and cover letters for specific jobs, as well as recommended jobs near you. You can download the resume you create for $3 (which starts a 14-day trial for Resume Genius Pro), or $8 (which kicks off a monthly subscription plan).
On Trustpilot at the time of this publication, the site has 4.6 out of 5 stars based on more than 38,000 reviews. Note that if you register on the site, Resume Genius does collect personally identifiable information and may share it with third parties for advertising and other purposes, according to its privacy policy. The account deletion process is buried in the Terms of Service . According to Resume Genius, complete data erasure can take up to 30 days, but they may retain "certain information in accordance with privacy laws."
- Easy to customize
- Free downloads
- Optional paid extra assistance with Indeed professionals
- Unclear how to delete personal information
Easiest resume builder to use
Indeed resume builder.
It's free to create a resume or post your current resume on Indeed. If you're building a new one, you can choose between eight templates. The resume sections are highlighted and when you click, each section expands specific text fields. You can swap templates at any time without losing your work, as well. There are also options for toggling sections on and off, in addition to rearranging them. When you're finished, you can download a free PDF of your work history.
Indeed Resume Builder also offers optional professional advice for your new resume. After you download the resume you created, you'll get a prompt and can click Get Resume Help From a Real Person. For $35, you can upload your resume and get feedback from a professional to get you started, and for $55 you can chat with a professional in real-time via a 20-minute video call. If you're really stuck, you can opt for the full resume rewrite for $155.
Indeed's privacy policy says that it does collect and share user data with third-party providers to connect job seekers with employers and improve services. According to Indeed's privacy policy, you can request an account or personal data deletion and request that your data not be shared while your account is active. CNET reached out to Indeed for more information and we'll update when we hear back.
- Guides resume creation
- Free resume downloads
- Paid tier offers interview advice and cover letter builder
- Have to pay for additional downloads
Most affordable paid resume builder
Cv engineer.
CV Engineer is an easy-to-use smartphone app that creates a professional-looking resume. With 16 templates to choose from, you can tap to enter information into all of the usual sections and add custom ones. When you tap on each section, you can tap through the bottom toolbar to get advice on what type of information to add, as well as view resume examples to show you how the section could look.
CV Engineer lets you send or download your first completed resume for free, but upgrading to CV Engineer Pro for a one-time payment of $6 gives you access to unlimited downloads. A Scan My CV feature is also included, which can detect common mistakes and suggest improvements, such as places where you can add more information. The Pro version also offers interview advice and a cover letter builder.
You can download CV Engineer from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store . CV Engineer does collect personal information and can share it with Google Play Services and Firebase Analytics, according to its privacy policy. The app is free to download and ad-free.
- Strong privacy policy
- Example resumes available
- Only one layout available
- Little guidance during creation
Best free iOS resume builder
Resume star 2: pro cv designer.
Resume Star 2 isn't the most visually stunning resume design app for iOS, but it gets the job done. To use, tap each section of the resume, fill in your information and it will fill in a traditional template (you only get one layout). The app offers some example resumes you can start with and edit as needed, including job-specific ones for a: cashier, dental hygienist, receptionist, waitress, mechanic and senior manager.
You can add or delete any sections you like without needing to hit save every time you add information, and you can see your resume update as you go. The autosave feature makes it easy to toggle quickly between the different sections as well. At the end, you'll have a basic resume ready to go. The app's interface doesn't offer as much guidance about how to write your resume or what types of information to include. If you need extra help, tap the information icon in the bottom left and choose the Resume Writing Guide. This will open up a crash course on resume writing in your mobile browser. It also includes a job search feature.
The app collects payment via donations after you use the service. You don't have to pay if you don’t want to. The app connects to iCloud, and you can export your resume as a PDF to any location on your device(s). If you are happy with the service, you pay $25 for it. Resume Star 2 has a 4.8 out of 5 rating, and more than 1,800 ratings in the App Store . The first version, Resume Star: Pro CV Maker, which is the same except for the iCloud connection, had a 4.9-star rating and more than 16,000 reviews. The site does not collect personally identifiable information without user consent, which seems to make it one of the more secure options available.
- 42 templates to choose from
- Easily customizable
- Little to no guidance during creation
Best free Android resume writing service
Intelligent cv resume builder app.
Intelligent CV's Resume Builder App offers 42 resume templates and allows you to change font colors. Each resume section appears on a list, and you can move through sections in whichever order you choose, save and go on to another. You also have the option to add, delete or rearrange sections such as education, experience and skills. There’s a Help icon in each section for a little bit of extra guidance. Once you're finished, you can download your document for free as a PDF, which you can then save on your device or send via email or text.
On the downside, the app is ad-supported and ads for other resume creators do pop up, which can get confusing. The app also offers less guidance than some of the other services, which means it's not a great option if you're new to resumes. Resume Builder App has one of the strongest privacy policies of the bunch. The app does not collect personally identifiable information , though third-party services (including Google Play services and analytics firms) may collect information. The app has 4.6 out of 5 stars and more than 424,000 Google Play Store ratings and is free to download.
- Easy-to-use interface
- Inclusive premium package
Best range of professional tools
VisualCV has an easy-to-use interface that lets you build your resume in the way that works best for you. After signing up, you can upload an existing resume, begin with a prewritten sample or start entirely from scratch. You can use the basic editor to input information in a list form, the visual editor to edit directly on the resume and preview mode to see changes made on either version in real time. Revision history is also available. The free basic edition allows you to select from over a dozen professional templates to create, edit and download one resume as a PDF. You can also create one free cover letter and apply to jobs through its job search feature.
To download or share additional resumes, you’ll need to buy VisualCV Pro for $15 a month quarterly or $24 a month monthly. Upgrading unlocks more templates, unlimited creations, downloading, career tracking and the ability to build a personal resume website. The website URL goes through VisualCV but can be shared online. In terms of privacy, VisualCV's policy says that it does not sell, trade, rent or license personal information to third parties. As of publication, VisualCV has 4 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot but only 131 reviews.
Best professional resume writing services of 2024
Depending on where you're at in the job application process, you might need more guidance than a template. These professional writing services will pair you with experienced writers and coaches to help you craft and perfect resumes, LinkedIn profiles, cover letters and more. As these services include more personalized coaching and features, they tend to be more expensive. We've collected a range of options depending on your budget and needs. Best professional resume writing services of 2024.
- Resume writing and career coaching
- Builds your resume from the ground up
- Quick turnaround
- More expensive options
A premium option for a tailored resume
Resume spice.
Suppose you're totally lost and are willing to invest several hundred dollars into your job search. In that case, Resume Spice is a resume writing and career coach service created by recruiters that connects you with a "resume expert" to build your CV from scratch.
Once you choose, you'll fill out a short questionnaire and schedule a phone consultation with a resume expert to discuss your experience, job search and career goals. The expert will take that information and turn around a personalized resume draft within two business days. You can review the draft and request any changes, and you'll get the final version in PDF and Word formats.
An entry-level resume costs $479, a professional resume costs $589 and an executive resume costs $699. In addition to these packages, you can also add a cover letter, LinkedIn profile, interview coaching or other services to help you be more competitive in the job market.
- 60 day interview guarantee
- Industry-specific advice
- Variety of packages
- Limited non-resume add-ons
A 60-day interview guarantee
Resumewriters.com.
ResumeWriters.com offers a guarantee: If you don't get a job interview with a potential employer within two months of getting your new resume, they'll rewrite it for free. The service claims that in the 20 years and tens of thousands of resumes completed under this guarantee, it averages fewer than five requests for rewrites per year. To use the resume writing service, submit your current resume or career information on the site, and an experienced resume writer will contact you to assess your materials and plan out what you need. You'll get a first draft back within 72 hours and can work with the writer on revisions until you're satisfied with the result.
ResumeWriters offers student, professional, executive and career-change resume services, as well as CV services for those conducting their job search in fields specific to the military, IT and research. The resume services cost $170 for students and $200 for the professional level, with a cover letter, one-on-one consultation and LinkedIn profile. The career change level ($250) is a comprehensive package that includes everything plus a post-interview follow-up letter, and the highest tier is the executive package that guarantees applicants its most experienced writers for $300.
- ATS screening
- Unlimited revisions
- Longer turnaround time (3-7 business days)
A fast pass through HR screening software
ZipJob’s professional resume writers optimize your resume to get through the applicant tracking system (ATS) software used by the majority of employers to automatically scan and sort resumes. An expert writes your resume and scans it through the ATS to ensure it will make it through to the hiring manager's desk. To use the service, upload your resume or fill out a form to start from scratch. You'll be matched with a professional resume writer who will work with you to improve it and will then scan the final product to make sure it passes through the screening algorithms. Depending on which package you choose, your resume will be ready in three to seven days.
You can choose from three packages: Launch (resume writing and unlimited revisions for $139), Fast Track (adds a cover letter and a 60-day interview guarantee for $189) or Premium (adds a top resume writer, LinkedIn profile optimization, future resume updates and expedited delivery for $299).
- Career coaching
- Industry-specific feedback
- Ability to customize packages
- Longer turnaround time (3-5 business days)
An executive resume solution
Find my profession.
Find My Profession offers professional resume writing services as well as career coaching. Every resume gets reviewed by two different consultants. You'll find packages that include entry-level, professional, C-level and executive resume writer services, as well as federal. In each, you can choose a base, premium or VIP package depending on your needs.
For example, the professional resume package starts at $595 for a resume compatible with automated systems but you can also get an entry-level resume for $395. You can also add help with a cover letter for an additional $119 or a LinkedIn profile for $399. You'll get the first draft of your resume within three to five business days after you consult with a writer. Or, upgrade to a priority service for another $149 to get it within 48 hours.
How we tested resume sites and services
When we evaluated the different resume templates and builders, we looked at how each site or app allowed you to create new resumes, browse templates or upload and edit existing resumes. We also looked at how easy or hard it would be to customize different templates and sections, how much guidance was available, how user-friendly it was to navigate, plus reading and understanding each company's privacy policies.
Some of our picks are free, some enlist the help of professional writers and some require a subscription or one-time payment. When it comes to premium or paid services, we evaluated how inclusive its packages were compared to basic or free versions. In many cases for the professional writing services, these paid tiers included more guidance and additional job search support like a cover letter and LinkedIn editing, suggested jobs to apply to and interview coaching.
Factors to consider when choosing a resume writing service
This was a key factor when compiling this list. Whether you're looking for a free service to boost your current resume or interested in professional editing services, there's something for everyone's price range.
Ease of use
When looking at each website, we looked at how easy it was to navigate, browse templates and add, edit or remove different sections. We also considered whether you can download and share your resume for free and in what format.
Customization options
Customization options were essential, as everyone's resume is going to look different. Having easy user control over your resume helps you create a resume that meets your industry's standards and showcases your professional experiences.
Privacy policies
Privacy policies were the final important factor to consider, as many of these are websites and apps that can collect and store your personal information. All of the services and websites included on this list have decent privacy settings, and we noted which ones have exceptionally clear use cases and account deletion policies.
Resume writing FAQs
What is a resume builder.
A resume builder is a company that has a website or app that helps you create and customize your resume. You can use preexisting templates or create your own from scratch.
What is a resume writing service?
A resume writing service is a company that pairs you with a coach or writer to work with you to create, perfect and tailor your resume, cover letters and other job application materials. These tend to be more inclusive packages and therefore more expensive than simple resume template websites.
What is the best resume format to use?
The best format for your resume is going to depend on the job you are applying to, along with your work experience. Resume templates can help you format and include all the necessary information like your education, work experience, skills and contact information.
Services and Software Guides
- Best iPhone VPN
- Best Free VPN
- Best Android VPN
- Best Mac VPN
- Best Mobile VPN
- Best VPN for Firestick
- Best VPN for Windows
- Fastest VPN
- Best Cheap VPN
- Best Password Manager
- Best Antivirus
- Best Identity Theft Protection
- Best LastPass Alternative
- Best Live TV Streaming Service
- Best Streaming Service
- Best Free TV Streaming Service
- Best Music Streaming Services
- Best Web Hosting
- Best Minecraft Server Hosting
- Best Website Builder
- Best Dating Sites
- Best Language Learning Apps
- Best Weather App
- Best Stargazing Apps
- Best Cloud Storage
- Best Resume Writing Services
- New Coverage on Operating Systems
3 out of 4 resumes never get seen.
Employers receive hundreds of applications and most get filtered out. Upload your resume to get through the filters.
Drag and drop resume file or click to upload
Get resume upload link
TopResume opens more doors for you.
With our resume writing services, you’ll get:
One-on-one support from a professional writer.
A personalized, modern resume that tells your career story.
ATS keyword optimization to seamlessly filter through Applicant Tracking Systems.
View Packages
How it works
1. Tell us about yourself
Complete a quick 5 minute questionnaire to prepare your future writer.
2. Meet your match
We’ll match you with the writer best suited to work with your industry and experience.
3. Review first draft
Have notes on the first draft? Send them to your writer to edit and update.
4. Receive your resume
Download your final draft and get ready for a renewed job search.
Trusted by professionals from
Reviewed by the community. trusted by professionals..
based on 13,550 reviews on
based on 13,550 reviews
Our career expert is here for you!
TopResume’s in-house career specialist, Amanda Augustine, is here to help you get hired faster and move ahead in your career. A well-recognized expert and speaker in career advancement, Amanda’s advice can help you with everything from developing your professional brand to acing the next interview.
Why You Shouldn't Rely on AI to Write Your Resume
Before you rely on a resume prompt to create your resume, make sure you understand the reasons you shouldn't! Read more
What is an ATS?
Many job seekers don't realize that 75 percent of job applications are rejected by applicant tracking systems before they are seen by human eyes. Here is everything you need to know about applicant tracking systems and how to beat them. Read more
Busting Myths: What You Get From a Free Resume Critique
A free resume critique online provides the foundational, expert opinion that knows your industry, knows hiring managers' needs, and knows how to make your resume the best it can be. Read more
Ready to get started?
Work with one of our professional resume writers or sign up for a free resume review.
View Packages Free Resume Review
When you use links on our website, we may earn a fee.
- Best Resume Writing Services
Though the workforce and job market constantly fluctuate, one element stays the same: the need for a professional resume that helps you stand out from the crowd and gets your information into the hiring manager’s hands. Even with the numerous free resources available for resume writing, including AI-generated content, hiring a qualified resume writing service can give your resume a professional edge so it breaks through the competition.
In this round-up, we review our choices for the best resume writing services and highlight what real users are saying so you can concentrate on other aspects of the job search and get noticed in a competitive job market.
Table of Contents
TopResume »
Offers free resume reviews
60-day interview guarantee
Able to customize resumes by industry
2x more interviews or will rewrite resume for free
Limit of two revisions
Results might be disappointing if not willing to buy highest-priced package
TopResume is a popular service providing free critiques of existing resumes and a relatively low starting cost for a new and customized resume. The process works by first having you answer a detailed questionnaire and then matching you with an experienced professional knowledgeable of your industry who assists with customizing your resume accordingly. TopResume employs a network of 1,200 writers.
Your document gets carefully written to pass through applicant tracking systems, or ATS, to provide the best chance of getting your documents in front of a hiring manager and increasing your interview odds. In addition to resumes, TopResume also writes cover letters and LinkedIn biographies. You should expect your first draft back within a week. TopResume offers a maximum of two rewrites.
While TopResume aims to get things right the first time, the service provides up to two rewrites if you aren’t satisfied with the result; while this is a good start, those in highly specialized or less common fields may not have access to as wide a pool of experts as others. If you are willing to pay top dollar for the most expensive plan, your access to writers with specialist knowledge will likely expand.
TopResume’s pricing plans work for professionals at all levels, making it the ideal service for the broadest range of job searchers.
Free resume templates and samples
Coaching is available for as low as $56
Options for all career levels
Job board with positions across various industries
Not a straightforward resume writing service
Slightly longer turnaround window than alternatives
No refunds for final resume or cover letter
TheMuse may primarily be known for sharing available jobs across multiple industries, but it is also a coaching and mentorship resource for job seekers. You not only have the chance to get your existing resume rewritten, but you can chat with a coaching professional by phone or Skype for 30 minutes; if unsatisfied, you get at least one round of edits.
In addition to tailored resumes, TheMuse provides coaching sessions, updated LinkedIn bios, and more. The service offers a combination of services meant to fit every budget and level of need. It’s easy to select only the features you need and avoid overpaying.
Although TheMuse provides valuable resume writing services, it does emphasize its coaching services over its resume and cover letter resources. TheMuse also works to update your existing documents instead of aiming to provide a resume built from scratch. If you already have a good foundation to work from, these services can be very useful for polish, but you may want to consider another service on this list if you are looking to start from the ground up.
Also be aware that you must be mindful of any errors in the draft as, aside from correcting spelling and grammar, no refunds get issued for final resumes or cover letters. You may be entitled to a single rewrite or unlimited rewrites depending on the service package you select. However, if you are simply displeased with the final version of the product for non-grammatical reasons, then it’s unlikely a refund will get issued.
Craft Resumes »
Free resume review
Writes resumes and CVs.
Affiliated with the NRWA and PARWCC
Relatively fast turnaround
Packages available for professionals range from entry to executive-level
Price listings could be more precise
Possible grammar issues due to language barrier
Craft Resumes is an internationally-based resume writing service with a team dedicated to assisting jobseekers worldwide. In addition to resumes and CVs, you can receive a custom cover letter, thank you note, and LinkedIn page. Additionally, you can order career coaching and receive round-the-clock support from team members. Its pricing ranges from about $139 to $630, making it suitable for job hunters of all economic backgrounds.
Craft Resumes offers one of the fastest turnaround windows we could find when researching resume writing services. You should receive your first draft within a day of requesting service, and the process takes about five days on average. If you need a new resume fast, this resume writing service could be your best bet.
One major caveat for native English speakers is that Craft Resumes often employs resume writers who are not; this means there is a potential for language barriers and miscommunications. Some customers have complained of this previously. Even so, most customers tend to be satisfied with the work provided by this company. Craft Resumes works with people worldwide, so they are ideal for people seeking employment outside of North America.
Let’s Eat, Grandma »
30-minute consultations
Completely customized resume
Free resume critique
Special executive-level concierge service
Very expensive compared to alternate services
Limit of rewrites unless you buy most expensive package
Let’s Eat, Grandma, sometimes called LEG, is one of the leading resume writing services available, though best suited for jobseekers with a more generous budget. Though it might be more expensive than some alternatives, its Executive Concierge Package is formulated and streamlined toward supporting the most senior-level members of the workforce who are looking to navigate from one role to the next.
If you want an executive-level resume writing service and experience, then Let’s Eat, Grandma is perhaps the most suitable option. That said, this company may not be the best fit if you are closer to entry-level or have a restricted budget. Let’s Eat Grandma’s main selling point is that it is not a budget resume writing service and is best suited for those seeking a premium, expert-level experience. If quality and expertise are your main concerns, and budget is not a primary consideration, then there’s a good chance Let’s Eat, Grandma represents good value for the money.
Federal Resume USA »
Plans are specifically available for those seeking government jobs
Also provides resume services for military spouses
Plan options for veterans
Range of affordable plan options
Website is a bit dated
Payment plans and pricing a little confusing
Federal Resume USA is a resume writing service that is specifically tailored towards supporting those seeking government and military positions. It differs from practically every other resume writing business reviewed in that it is primarily government-focused. Federal Resume USA works with customers trying to obtain a government job or who are transferring away from federal and military roles and need a civilian or private sector-friendly resume. The pricing varies from around $100 for a critique to $300 for resumes tailored toward GS-14, GS-15, and SES PO positions, putting the pricing plans within the budget of most potential customers.
Though Federal Resume USA may be a service that is ideal for government job seekers, it is hard to ignore how dated the website is. It can be hard to distinguish one pricing plan from the next, raising the risk of customers accidentally opting for the wrong plan. Though the pages lack a modern charm, the service is well-suited to customers who want writers specifically familiar with creating resumes for federal government and military jobs.
ResumeSpice »
Creates resumes for a broad range of industries
Offers outplacement services to companies
DISC assessment to assist in navigating career path
Expensive resume service plans
No option to just get a resume written up
No clear refund policy
If you are looking to make a career change or need outplacement assistance, ResumeSpice is a leading resource for job hunters either making a change or preparing to move on from a current position. The process varies depending on the exact services you choose. For resumes, you select your preferred package; you can also choose to add other items, such as a cover letter.
After making your purchase, you should get an email from ResumeSpice and complete a quick questionnaire; the email also includes a link to schedule a consultation. Following a phone call with your resume writer, where you further explain your career goals and further expand on your questionnaire, the writer will get to work on your resume. ResumeSpice shares that first drafts are usually completed within two business days.
If you aren’t satisfied with the final product, ResumeSpice will rewrite your resume at no additional cost. The brand will also rework your resume if you fail to get a single interview within 60 days of working with them. While this may be agreeable to some customers, getting a refund appears difficult if you aren’t completely happy with the service.
Affordable plans
ATS optimization
No clear indication of turnaround time
Not necessarily transparent about refunds
ZipJob is a resume writing service that provides a series of resume writing plans that work for entry-level job seekers as well as specialized package for executive-level customers. The service works by asking that you send a copy of your most recent resume and answer a few questions. You are paired with a writer who collaborates directly with you to create a brand-new resume. Once the draft is complete, ZipJob runs your resume through an ATS scanner.
ZipJob is so confident in its process and the quality of the resume that it promotes a 60-day guarantee for its Fast Track and Premium tiers; if you don’t get twice as many interviews as before using their service, ZipJob will rewrite your resume for free. The terms of service indicate that all sales are final aSpcend there are no refunds.
Aside from questions about turnaround and refunds for dissatisfied customers, ZipJob is a comprehensive service provider that works to ensure you are provided the best quality ATS-friendly resume that it can.
The Bottom Line
Resume writing services remain a valuable resource for job hunting, whether you are unemployed or presently employed and seeking a move elsewhere. For those lacking resume writing experience, these services can help you connect with someone able to take your work experience or accomplishments and present them in a streamlined manner while representing your best qualities.
Unlike utilizing AI alone, working with a person or team of people allows you to prep for interviews, acknowledge and work on any professional setbacks, and get used to comfortably collaborating with other people. The best resumes go beyond SEO and keywords – they empower you to self-advocate. The best resume writing services empower and coach you in ways only possible when humans are involved.
What Are Resume Writing Services and How Do They Work?
A resume writing service provides editing, rewriting, and proper formatting of a resume, or the creation of a resume from scratch. The providers typically use professional writers who understand the importance of keyword placement and know how to tailor your resume to the job or industry you’re applying for.
Many resume writing services offer more than a resume update and can often provide cover letter assistance, thank you notes, coaching, LinkedIn profile evaluations, and other job-seeking services.
While each provider may have a slightly different process, when you hire a resume writing service, you’ll have to first submit your current resume (if you have one) to get matched to a professional writer. You’ll also need to provide your career goals and industry, plus any other information the service provider requests.
Most services provide a time frame of when you can expect your first draft for your review. Once you receive it, you can go over any changes needed or start submitting it for your job applications.
How Much Do Resume Writing Services Cost?
There’s a significant range in cost for resume writing services, so it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what’s included in the service before paying for it. For instance, the cost of the providers featured in our top picks starts at $99, but many can reach several hundred dollars, especially for executive-level resume writing.
Most offer a starting price that includes a more basic package but then increases in cost if you select add-on services such as cover letters, coaching, or interview prepping.
Pros and Cons of Resume Writing Services
Hiring a professional resume writing service can help you get noticed, but it does require an investment. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of using this type of service before committing.
Receive a professionally written resume
Resume will include keywords that increase the likelihood of getting picked up by a potential employer
Can tailor your resume to a specific role or industry in a professional manner
Writer has expertise and insight into hiring trends and best resume practices
Requires a monetary investment
Must put in time and effort for providing resume details, filling out a questionnaire, or interviewing the writer
Writer may not capture your voice in the resume, making it feel impersonal
How To Choose a Resume Writing Service
Look for a resume writing service that is open about its writers’ qualifications. The writers may have expertise with certain industries or types of job seekers (such as entry level or executive level). You can also look for writers with professional designations, perhaps through the National Resume Writer’s Association (NRWA) or the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC), which are widely respected.
The more features the writing service offers, the higher the price. However, you may receive a valuable series of services that will strongly assist you in finding a new job that would be a good value for your investment. Look for service providers with upfront pricing and clear details regarding what’s included.
At the most basic level, a resume writing service includes a draft of a re-written (or newly created) keyword-optimized resume plus a round of revisions. Many packages also include valuable add-on services such as:
- Cover letters
- Thank you notes
- An interview guarantee
- LinkedIn profile update
You may prefer using a service skilled in balancing the time-saving benefits of AI-generated content and adding a human touch to your resume. Or you may want a service doing the bare minimum amount utilizing AI. Look for information on a resume writing service’s website regarding how they use AI, or ask directly.
The turnaround period refers to the time it takes a service to receive your questionnaire, existing resume, or instructions, and then send a first draft. The average time among top-tier resume writing services is typically seven to 10 business days, though it depends on the writer’s experience, the type of resume work requested, or their workload.
If you are in a hurry, check to see if the resume writing service will expedite the process, but be prepared to pay an extra fee for rush service.
You may find a resume writing service uses the same formatting and fonts for each resume, which can make it difficult for you to stand out among the competition. Instead, look for a service that provides custom resumes and takes a personal yet professional approach when formatting your documents.
Best Resume Writing Services: What Users Are Saying
To get opinions on resume writing services, we surveyed 100 people who self-reported experience using it. We then asked them to identify the most important features when using these services and rank those features on a scale of 1-5, with one being the most important and five the least. Finally, we asked participants to provide a short story or other concerns they had when using a resume writing service.
The majority of respondents (73%) reported that price is important when considering a resume writing service, with customizations (72%) and user-friendliness (56%) following. Customer service and support (56%) came after that, with success rate (48%) rounding out the top features list. Unique features was indicated as the least important feature, with 34% of respondents selecting it.
While most comments were about ensuring the service tailors resumes to the individual and makes them eye-catching and enticing to employers, one respondent highlighted that it’s a plus “If they have some experience working in the field you are pursuing.” Another one supported this, adding, “It is important to me to know that the writer has written for someone in my industry so they have a better understanding of my experience.”
Alternatives to Resume Writing Services
A resume writing service can offer plenty of advantages for job seekers, but it’s not the only option available. Other resume writing choices include:
- AI-generated resumes: You can feed personal information such as work experience, education, skills, and any other relevant information you want to include into ChatGPT and the program can generate a resume. While it’s a quick, budget-friendly option, it will likely not sound as personal and may not have the keyword optimization needed to get noticed.
- Use a marketplace: Freelance marketplace options such as Upwork and Fiverr offer an enormous number of writers who charge a flat fee for creating a resume, similar to hiring a resume writing service. However, they may not have the industry knowledge you’re looking for or include as many benefits as a professional resume writing service might.
- Free templates: An online search for free resume writing tips will yield overwhelming results, but they may provide you with enough help so you can pull together a resume on your own. In addition to free advice, you can also find free templates in numerous places including Canva, Microsoft Word, or Google Docs.
How We Chose the Best Resume Writing Services
At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our writers and editors combined consultations with industry experts, including a former recruiter and executive-level resume writer, with in-depth research to curate a list of high-quality resume writing services. We formulated a methodology based on the most relevant features job seekers often look to when deciding on a reliable resume writing service.
We considered affordability and value for the money, turnaround time, customization, and even what services are best according to where one finds oneself in their career path. With these features in mind, we narrowed our list down according to the resume writing services we felt best fit each category and so are most suited to your specific needs.
WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?
The contributors and editors who compile our 360 Reviews round-ups have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products. Sara Coleman , one of the authors of this piece and a contributor for 360 Reviews, has more than seven years of experience writing for multiple consumer and business publications, in addition to reviewing a wide range of business products.
Toni Matthews-El, the co-author of this article, has years of experience drafting resumes and cover letters. She not only wrote and critiqued resumes for numerous clients, but she also earned a professional branding certification through Randstad RiseSmart.
A high-caliber resume writing service can bring a professional quality to your resume. The resume writers have likely spent years mastering what it takes for your resume to stand out to recruiters and what information the hiring manager needs to know. Plus, they can make sure your achievements jump off the page.
While you can find plenty of free advice and free resume templates, it can be worth it to invest in a writing service that will help you stand out from the competition. Hiring a service can ensure you have both the necessary keywords to ensure yours is noticed by resume screening software and that it makes a professional first impression.
Chances are if you’re using a free resume writing service, it’s using AI-generated content. When you work with a resume writing service, you’ll likely be working with at least one human throughout the process. Keep in mind that top-tier resume services are increasingly using AI as part of the writing process, and it may help in certain situations such as speeding up time to completion or reducing cost.
Some companies offer help with cover letters as an option within a package, while others strictly offer resume writing services. It’s a good idea to look for a service offering both, since companies often request both a resume and cover letter during the application process.
If you don’t like the draft you’ve received, make notes and highlight the areas of concern, such as spelling or grammatical errors, incorrect information, formatting, or anything else. You can ask for correction but do take note of how many rewrites the writing service includes in their packages. You may also be entitled to a full refund, depending on the writing service’s refund policy.
About Our Team
Sara Coleman
Contributor
Toni Matthews-El
U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.
The #1 Resume Writing Service in the world.
(866) 356-2789
Call us toll free
[email protected]
Send us an e-mail
Proudly celebrating 24 years in business! (1999-TODAY) Who We Are | Reviews Of Our Services | Our BBB Rating
They can’t be wrong
Our writers are experienced
Or we re-write your resume for free! Click to learn more.
ResumeWriters.com has been named the Top Rated Resume Service year after year! Read about it here.
Student resumes.
Students, Recent Grads and Professionals with less than 2 years experience
Pro Resumes
Professionals in any industry with more than 2 years experience
Executive Resumes
Executives and managers in any industry, up to, and including, C-level
Career Change
Professionals who are transitioning to a new industry or career field
Linkedin Profiles
Linkedin profile writing available as an add-on to any resume service.
Military/Civilian
Service members from all branches transitioning to the civilian workforce
IT, tech, computer, software engineers and networking professionals
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Legal, medical, dental, academic, scientific, and researchers of all levels
Our Qualifications
"Solid counseling on the resume front." - Time Magazine
Our Process
Submit your current resume or career info via our secure website. your personally assigned writer makes direct contact with you to assess your materials and plan the project according to your career needs. receive a first draft within 72 hours. work with the writer on revisions until you have a final draft you are happy with. land interviews get hired, start working one-on-one with a resume writer today.
No middlemen, no editors, no hassle. Just direct, personal service until you have a final draft you are happy with.
Our experience makes all the difference .
For nearly two decades, ResumeWriters.com has brought the most qualified professional resume writers in the world to the job-seeking public. We only partner with the most experienced, nationally recognized and highly in demand writers in the industry. We will match you with professionals who know how to compose winning, dynamic documents that are guaranteed to land you interviews.
You will work with a writer who is qualified to write the document that best suits your needs. You will work one-on-one , directly and personally, with an experienced professional until you have a resume you are satisfied with. No call-centers, no middlemen, and (unlike some resume "companies") no outsourced overseas typists. We partner you exclusively with the most experienced, respected, certified North-American-based resume professionals in the world.
Long-Standing Member:
And we stand behind the quality of our work. click to learn about our....
Job Interview Guarantee
We absolutely, positively guarantee interviews, or we will rewrite your resume until you get one. It is as simple as that.
Our Success Guarantee is this: If after having us write you a resume, you do not get a job interview within 2 months, we will rewrite your resume for free. So if, after 2 months (60 days) of getting your resume from us, you have no interviews lined up (and have had none since receiving the resume) simply email us with your order number, and we'll contact you with a new, re-written resume. You can even choose to work with your old writer, or be assigned a new writer for a fresh take!
In the more than 15 years that we've offered this guarantee, we have only had a handful of requests for rewrites. In fact, we average less than five a year. That means that after tens of thousands of completed orders, 99.95% have found jobs after using our services. That's a 99% customer satisfaction rate!
Click to learn more about how we work.
Direct one-on-one process
You work with the writer via their personal email and phone number. Got a question during the writing process? Just ask!
Awesome Support
You keep working with the writer, making revisions until you have a final draft you're happy with.
72 Hour Turnaround
From the time you submit your career history, you'll have a draft delivered via email in 3 days. 24-hour rush also available.
All the documents you'll need.
A beautiful MSWord final resume. Cover letters, e-resumes and even LinkedIn profile development is also available.
What Clients Around the World Say
Click here to read all our testimonials.
You are outstanding!!! My resume looks great! If I don't get a job with this resume I may as well become a used car salesman.
Tim C. Not a Used-Car Salesman
I thought you might like to know that I got a new job this week and I am officially off the market. Thanks a lot for your work rewriting my resume. I found an awesome opportunity and I am really happy. It took less than 30 days from your re-write to find me a good job.
Erin L. Sales
I wanted to inform you that I found a job and start in August. I had two offers both 20% above my current salary with a signing bonus! I attribute this to your writing ability and service you provided me. You were worth every penny! Thanks so much and feel free to use me as a reference.
Carl K. Architecture
The resume you created for me got me hired in two security positions. Figured you wanted to know your skills are amazing at resume writing and you helped me get a job within an hour of submitting my resume and subcontracted through another corporation. Thank you very much!
Christopher C. Former Military, Now Civilian Security
In the beginning I was very skeptical of the online resume writing process. Having never used this type of a service before, I had my doubts. But the writer was phenomenal! Not only would I use the service again, I have recommended ResumeWriters.com to several of my friends and family.
Charles D. Banking
Sample Resumes from over the years
Click here to see all our sample resumes.
You go as far as your resume… …and our resume service makes sure your resume goes far
- Money Back Guarantee
- Unlimited Revisions
- Keyword Optimized
- Industry Specific
- 1-on-1 Consultation
How We Do It
See how we go about taking your resume to the next level.
Real Recruiters and Career Experts
We're comprised of recruiters, career experts, and industry professionals who have actual hiring experience.
How We're Different
Designed to make sure your new resume is the best one yet.
1-On-1 Time .
Our writers take the necessary time to learn about your career goals and what you'd like to see in your new resume.
While other resume services only have you filling out a form, you'll be working directly with our writers. They'll set up an initial consutlation with you to discuss your resume concerns and answer any sort of questions you may have.
Unlimited Revisions .
Our writers are here to help every step of the way. Even after you've been sent your new resume, they'll be glad to continue providing revisions and updates to for up to 14 days.
Money Back Guarantee .
Try our services risk-free. We offer money back guaranteed, no questions asked for up to 14 days.
Get the resume you want or your money back. We offer a money back guarantee policy for up to 14 days after you receive your new resume from your writer.
Research-driven leader in the industry
The studies we conduct have pioneered the way career experts approach the job search process.
“Study: A Comprehensive LinkedIn Profile Gives A 71% Higher Chance Of A Job Interview [Infographic]”
“How many pages should your resume be? Here’s the science”
“Recruiters are more than twice as likely to hire people who ignore this common piece of resume advice”
“Job Applicants With a ‘Comprehensive’ LinkedIn Profile 71% More Likely to Get Interviews, Study Says”
“You Can Overcome a Long Gap in Your Résumé”
Ready to level up your resume?
Every great job opportunity requires a great resume to seize it.
- Resume Writing Services
- LinkedIn Writing Services
- Cover Letter Writing Services
- How It Works
- Resume Writers
- Sample Resumes
- Resume Examples
- Resume Templates
- Resume Research
- Best Resume Services
- Scholarships
IMAGES
VIDEO