The following resume writing template lists the information you require including on your resume. Use the template to generate a list of information to involve on your resume, and then compile the details to format your resume into a customized resume to send to employers.

Resume Writing Template

Contact Information

The first section of your resume should involve data on how the employer can contact you.

First Last Name
Street Address
City, State, ZIP
Phone (Cell/Home)
Email Address

Objective (optional)

What do you need to do? If you include this section, it should be a sentence or 2 about your employment aims. A customized objective that explains why you are the perfect candidate for the job can help your resume stand out from the competition.

Career Highlights / Qualifications / Profile (optional)

A customized section of your resume that lists key achievements, skills, traits, and experience relevant to the position for which you are applying can serve dual purposes. It mentions your relevant experience and lets the prospective employer know that you have taken the time to develop a resume that indicates how you are qualified for the job.​

Experience

This section of your resume includes your work history. List the companies you worked for, dates of employment, the positions you held and a bulleted list of responsibilities and achievements.

Company #1

City, State
Dates Worked

Job Title
Responsibilities / Achievements

Company #2
City, State
Dates Worked

Job Title
Responsibilities / Achievements​

Education

In the education section of your resume, list the colleges you attended, the degrees you attained, and any special awards and honors you earned.

College, Degree
Awards, Honors​

Skills

Include skills related to the position / career field that you are applying for e.g. computer skills, language skills.​

References

There is no requirement to involve references on your resume. Instead, have a separate list of references to give to employers upon request.

More Tips on Resume Writing

• Read the job description in the ad, paying special attention to keywords that elaborate the duties, skills, and qualifications linked with the position. Then, match your experience and capabilities to these keywords, and emphasize them throughout your resume and cover letter.
• Review resume formats, and select the best kind of resume for your experience and the job to which you’re applying. For instance, if your work experience is a good fit for the role, a chronological resume might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’ve done a good deal of job hopping, or are looking for work while unemployed, a functional resume might be a better option, as it focuses on skills over linear employment history.
• Look at resume samples to see how to incorporate your resume template information into an appropriate format.
• Consider using a Microsoft resume template, if you are stuck getting started. Download a free resume template to develop your resume or use the templates available in Microsoft Word.

• Keep it simple. Select a basic font and a font size that’s readable. (In other words, this is not the time to use fancy calligraphy fonts or to experiment with a lot of different font sizes). Make certain that your formatting is consistent throughout your resume, cover letter, and other application materials.
• Customize your resume. Always be certain to personalize and customize your resume so it reflects your skills and abilities and connects them with the jobs you are applying for. Your finished product should be a distinctive reflection of what you can bring to the job — not a thinly revised downloadable template. It’s also a good idea to get into the habit of customizing your resume for every job application. Even if you’re applying for similar roles at different organizations, each employer will have its own requirements and priorities. Make certain that your resume writing and other application materials speak to their specific needs, and increase your chances of getting the job.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread. And when you are done proofreading, have a friend check things over one last time before you submit your application. Small mistakes can make a big impact on your chances — and not in a positive way.