Choose a resume format (chronological, functional, or combination)
Use a clean, readable layout with consistent fonts and spacing
Add your contact header (full name, phone, email, location, LinkedIn/portfolio if applicable)
Write a strong professional summary tailored to the target role
List relevant skills using keywords from the job description
Create an experience section with job title, company, location, and dates
Write accomplishment-focused bullet points for each role (action + results + metrics)
Include relevant projects if you have limited work experience or want to highlight specific skills
Add an education section (degree, school, graduation date or expected date)
Include certifications, licenses, or training relevant to the role
Add awards, publications, or professional memberships if applicable
Include volunteering or leadership experience when it supports the job requirements
Tailor the resume to each application by aligning skills and experience with the job posting
Use job-specific keywords naturally throughout the resume
Quantify impact with numbers (revenue, cost savings, time saved, performance improvements)
Keep bullet points concise and focused on outcomes
Avoid including unrelated personal details (age, marital status, photos)
Exclude duties lists; emphasize achievements and measurable contributions
Ensure employment gaps are handled appropriately (brief, neutral wording if needed)
Proofread for grammar, spelling, and formatting consistency
Save the file as a PDF or the format requested by the employer
Keep the resume to one page (early career) or two pages (experienced), depending on relevance
Create a master resume and tailor it for each role
Verify your resume passes common ATS requirements (simple formatting, standard headings, no tables/graphics)
Perform a final review against the job requirements and remove mismatched content