Knowing when and how to talk about your maternity leave on a resume is stressful. This is especially true if you’re reentering the workforce or are looking for new opportunities soon after your leave.

Here’s a quick answer: as a general rule, you don’t need to mention maternity leave on your resume. Instead, you should utilize the space to focus on your professional experience and skills. Of course, in today’s professional world, many hiring managers and recruiters recognize the specific strengths and values parents returning to the workforce can bring to the team.

In this article, you’ll learn about specific situations when you should include your maternity leave on your resume and when you can safely leave it out. If you choose to highlight your maternity leave on your resume, this article will also address ways you can productively include this information. Plus, you’ll get easy tips to help you redirect any uncomfortable questions that might come up when you discuss your leave.

I recommend using the tool below to assess how your maternity leave is presented on your resume. It will provide insights on what to exclude and offer suggestions for improvements.

Do you need to put maternity leave on your resume?

When you’re applying for a job, it’s important to include any long-term employment gaps on your resume. However, you generally don’t need to include short-term leave. This goes for maternity leave or any other time you take off from your job that lasts a few months or less.

Instead of drawing hiring managers’ eyes to short gaps in your work history, focus on the continuity of your employment. This is especially true if you worked in your previous role for many years, and your maternity leave was a blip on that timeline.

When to include maternity leave on your resume

However, if your maternity leave lasted a year or more, you should include it on your resume.

This transparency starts you off on the right foot with your potential employer, and they know to expect this information before you come in for an interview.

Keep in mind you don’t have to list this employment gap as “maternity leave,” though. If you’re uncomfortable sharing this information so directly, there are many ways you can address your time away from work without specifically mentioning why you took a leave of absence.

For example, you can list the break as “Time Away from Work for Family Responsibilities” and simply list the dates you were away. You don’t have to mention how you spent your days, and your interviewer shouldn’t ask any questions about this personal choice.

Impact of maternity leave on hiring decisions

If you choose to include your maternity leave on your resume, most hiring managers will glide over it without a second thought. It’s a natural part of many people’s personal and professional lives, and it shouldn’t affect your ability to do your job well.

Discriminating based on family status is illegal in the United States. Of course, some biases still exist. If you encounter an interviewer or potential supervisor who questions your decision, redirect the conversation to your professional qualifications.

You don’t owe them any explanation for why you took time off work to focus on your family. If the conversation goes left, redirect it back toward why you’re the best candidate for the job.

How to include maternity leave on your resume

In most circumstances, you’re under no obligation to mention your maternity leave on your resume. However, if you decide to include this information, first consider where you’re placing it.

Mention the leave within the context of your job history — not as a prominent feature. For example, when you list your role as a marketing manager with a specific company, add a description note like, “Included a six-month maternity leave in 2025, during which I engaged in professional development activities.”

When you phrase your maternity leave this way, you can also expand upon those “professional development activities.” That way, your time out of the office is framed as an asset to your own growth. If you took any courses during that time or developed new skills at home, mention them here.

Not sure if your resume hits the mark? We’re here to help. Upload your resume to our free resume scanner and get instant feedback on how you can strengthen your resume and get more interviews. Our AI-powered checker will give you the suggestions you need to take your resume to the next level.

The skills section is a small part of your resume — but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. While a typical skills list will only be a short section toward the bottom of the page, it’s also one that hiring managers use to quickly see whether you’re a good fit for the job you’re applying for.

But how can you include all your most important skills without letting your Skills section become overcrowded? By using skill categories! Keep reading as we discuss the best way to group skills together, essential tips to keep in mind, and examples of specific-yet-versatile skill categories you can use on your own resume.

Understanding skill categories: What they are and why they're essential

Skill categories are related skills that you can group together on your resume under a single subheading. Generally, you should stick to 2-3 different categories. The skill categories themselves should be:

• relevant to the job you’re applying for, and
• accurately describe the skills you possess

For example, if you were applying for a technical role, instead of listing 10-15 individual hard skills, you might opt to separate your skills into categories like ‘Programming Languages’ and ‘Database Management.’

How to group skills together

Wondering about the best way to group skills together on your resume? You can try:

Grouping skills by job-specific demands

If you’re applying for a job that requires a broad skill set, you can help your resume feel more coherent by separating different skills into different subheadings. For example, if you’re applying for a position as a Project Manager in a technical field, you might want separate skill categories for programming and project management skills.

Example:

• Project Management: Jira, Confluence, Agile, Kanban
• Programming: SQL, MATLAB, Java, Python

Grouping complementary skills

If your skills are more interrelated, you may prefer to group skills into slightly broader categories. This is a good way to group different but related skills like design, modeling, and programming and allows you to elaborate on your skills in more detail.

Example:

• Visual Design: Figma, Sketch, Photoshop
• 3D Modeling and 2D Drafting: Rhino, VRay, AutoCAD

Grouping skills by functional domain

If you’re in a highly specialized field, it may feel more difficult to separate your skills into categories. In this case, you may want to group your skills based on function rather than area. This allows you to provide a comprehensive list of skills that’s still easy for recruiters to skim.

Example:

• Analytics: SQL, R, Python, Predictive Modeling, A/B testing, Java, C++, C#
• Product: Jira, JavaScript, HTML, CSS

Choosing all-purpose skill categories

If you’re not certain what skill categories are best suited to your field — or if you’re just starting out in your career and still narrowing down your options — you might want to go with skill categories that can be easily adapted to different roles and industries.

Example:

• Technical Skills: Microsoft Access, QuickBooks, Blackboard Software, Data Entry Software, Adobe Acrobat Pro
• Languages: English (Native), German (Fluent), French (Conversational)
  

Why you should categorize skills on your resume

What are the benefits of grouping skills on your resume? Skill categories allow for:

• Improved readability. Separating your skills into smaller categories with subheadings makes them easier to skim and reduces the likelihood that a hiring manager will miss something essential.
• Coherent narrative. Listing everything under a single heading can sometimes look a bit like a jumbled mess, especially if you have a broad skill set. Using skill categories gives your skills list a clear direction.
• Tailoring. Skill categories allow you to easily tailor your resume to different roles or industries and ensure that your skills align with the job description. For example, your resume for a marketing position might group skills into ‘Digital Marketing,’ ‘Content Creation,’ and ‘Analytics,’ while your resume for a customer service role might list nearly the same skills but in categories like ‘Customer Relationship Management (CRM),’ ‘Data Analytics,’ and ‘Communication and Collaboration Tools.’
• Highlighting key skills. The categories you choose can sometimes be as important as the skills themselves. If you’re applying for a job where software development and data analysis are listed as must-have skills, using these as subheadings emphasizes that your skills are a good fit for the role.
• ATS optimization. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) work by scanning your resume for keywords, and skill categories allow you to include these in a natural way. For example, if you’re applying for a Software Engineer position, explicitly listing skill categories like ‘Programming Languages,’ ‘Software Development,’ and ‘Algorithm Design’ increase your chances of scoring a high match with the ATS algorithm.
• Impactful presentation. The content of your resume is what matters most, but having a clean, well-designed layout helps more than you might think.

Tips for selecting relevant skill categories

If you’re not sure how to go about categorizing skills on your resume, here are some options you should keep in mind.

Take skills directly from the job description

Any time you’re having trouble deciding how to organize your skills, the best place to start is with the job description. Look for what types of skills the ad emphasizes — for example, if customer service is a major aspect of the position, consider a skill category that relates to customer relationship management.

One category to avoid: “Soft Skills.” Recruiters scan this section for tools, software, and other hard skills they can verify, and a list of traits like “communication” or “leadership” reads as filler here. Show those qualities through your bullet points instead, where you can attach real outcomes to them.

Incorporate specific keywords

For an even more targeted approach, try to use keywords from the job description verbatim in your resume. For example, if the job ad contains multiple references to ‘data analysis’ and ‘project management,’ consider using those as your subheadings.

You can also utilize the keywords tool below to generate a list of job-relevant hard skills for the position you're applying for.

Adjust your skill categories to different roles

Applying for jobs across multiple roles or industries doesn’t mean you need to change up your resume every time. Skill categories are a quick but highly visible way to tailor your resume — for example, swapping out ‘Social Media Strategy,’ ‘SEO,’ and ‘Content Marketing’ in a digital marketing resume for ‘Project Management’ and ‘Data Visualization’ in one focused on a more managerial role.

Examples of skill categories for different jobs

Looking to dive right in? Here are some suggested skill categories you can add to your resume.

Graphic design

• Visual Design: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Sketch, Figma, CorelDRAW
• Illustration: Adobe Illustrator, Affinity Designer, Procreate, Clip Studio
• Motion Graphics: Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D, Blender, Maya

Software development

• Web Development: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, React.js, Angular
• Backend Development: Python, Node.js, Java
• Mobile App Development: Swift, Kotlin, React Native

Data analysis

• Data Analysis Tools: Python, SQL, Tableau, Power BI
• Statistical Analysis: Regression Analysis, Hypothesis Testing, ANOVA, Time Series Analysis
• Data Visualization: Tableau, ggplot2, Matplotlib, D3.js, Plotly

Marketing

• Digital Marketing: SEO Optimization, Google Analytics, Facebook Ads, LinkedIn Ads
• Email Marketing: MailChimp
• Marketing Automation: HubSpot, Marketo, ActiveCampaign

Finance

• Technical Skills: Accounting, Forecasting, Budgeting, Auditing, Invoicing
• Industry Knowledge: Projection Modeling, Market Analysis, Risk Identification and Analysis
• Tools and Software: SAP Products, Microsoft Power BI, Hyperion, Tableau, Essbase

Engineering

• Structural Engineering: AutoCAD, SAP2000, ETABS, Revit Structure
• Geotechnical Engineering: PLAXIS, GeoStudio, LPILE
• Project Management: Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Procore

“Why should we hire you?”

Even if they don’t ask it, all hiring managers are thinking it, even as early as the resume stage. Your resume should aim to answer that question, and the best way to do that is by focusing on your past accomplishments — at work, in education, or even in volunteer roles or personal projects.

Resume accomplishments vs responsibilities

There’s a big difference between accomplishments and responsibilities, and you always want to make sure you’re focusing on the former. How can you tell the difference? If your sounds like it could fit into a job description, it’s probably a responsibility rather than an accomplishment.

Listing responsibilities (don’t do this!)

“Oversaw team's performance and provided leadership to all business functions in divisions.”

Why does it matter? Responsibilities tell employers a lot about your job, but very little about you. Consider the statement above. It explains what you did, but not how well you did it — and that’s the most important part. It also sounds like it could have been pulled straight from a job posting, which makes it far too generic to belong on your resume.

Listing accomplishments (do this instead!)

“Launched Miami office with lead Director and recruited and managed a new team of 10 employees. Grew office revenue by 200% in the first nine months (representing 20% of company revenue).”

In contrast, the statement above does several things right. It’s specific about what you achieved in the role, it focuses on the end benefit to the company, and it uses numbers and metrics to explicitly quantify that achievement.

Why focus your resume on accomplishments?

Hiring managers primarily want to know how you're likely to perform in the role, which is where past accomplishments come in. Focusing on resume accomplishments (vs responsibilities) is the best way of showing what you actually achieved in your previous positions. The fact that you’ve worked in sales for 10 years doesn’t tell a recruiter much, other than how long you’ve been in the workforce. The fact that you increased your customer base 30% through cold calls and pulled in 150% of expected revenue in the past three quarters gives them a much better idea of the skills and potential outcomes you’d be bringing to the table.

How to write resume accomplishments

How do you ensure your resume is focused on accomplishments, not responsibilities? Follow this step-by-step guide:

1. Start with a strong action verb — this is the best way to ensure you're focusing on accomplishments, not responsibilities.
2. Write exactly what you did, for example, "Created a performance recording template." Try to use the past tense where you can.
3. Finish with the end result, for example, "Reduced the preparation time of standard client materials."
4. Add numbers or metrics if you can. Quantifying your accomplishments means they're more likely to impress a recruiter.
5. Stick to 3-6 accomplishments per role.
6. Upload your resume to Score My Resume for a free resume review and personalized feedback.

As for how many of these to write: 3-6 accomplishment bullets per job is the standard — here’s how many bullet points per job to include based on your experience level.

The ATM formula for writing resume accomplishments

Your bullet point achievements need to contain three things: an action verb, the task or project (what you did), and the metric or result (what the benefit was). This is a pretty simple formula, but it can be applied to any accomplishment.

Always start with the action verb — this keeps the focus on your specific contribution and frames the achievement in a proactive light. Depending on the accomplishment, you can list either the task or the result first, but make sure each bullet point you write contains all three elements.

We call this the ATM formula: Action verb, Task, Metric. If you know the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) from interview prep, think of ATM as its resume-sized version. A one-line bullet has no room to set a scene, so you lead with the action and let the metric prove the result. Every bullet that follows this structure answers the hiring manager’s real question: what did you do, and did it work?

Following the action verb with the task or project is a good structure for most achievements, as it clearly illustrates what you did. Following that up with a metric or result provides context for the scale of the achievement.

Including the metric or result directly after the action verb allows you to focus on the end result of your achievement. Describing the task or project afterward explains exactly what you did to achieve it.

Related: When To Use Pronouns in Your Resume Accomplishments

Examples of strong resume accomplishments

Here are some examples of strong resume accomplishments that you can use on your resume.

Resume accomplishments applicable to all kinds of roles

• Promoted within 12 months due to strong performance and organizational impact - ahead of schedule by 12 months
• Managed business relationships with 10 clients, including Volkswagen, Deutsche Bank and McDonalds and presented marketing strategies to senior management to drive ROI and re-engineer sales operations, generating $2MM+ in annual revenue
• Earned expedited promotion to Senior Analyst after one year as Analyst (earned by less than 1% of cohort)
• Founded ReferRoom to organize social events for 500 young professionals, and grew it to $20k/year revenue and $8k/year profit.
• Planned and co-ordinated 40+ training sessions for 300+ employees across 5 major offices; defined agenda and prepared minutes for C-suite executives

Leadership resume accomplishments

• Managed cross-functional team of 10 in 3 locations (London, Mumbai and New York), ranging from entry-level analysts to vice presidents, and collaborated with business development, data analysis, operations and marketing.
• Collaborated with developers and product management team to assess project outcomes and prioritize future app features.
• Coached 30 summer interns and launched a mentorship program for new joiners in the Berlin office.
• Refined outsourcing strategy, resulting in increased offshore headcount from 12 to 95 employees and saved $1.2MM
• Led over 12 software sales pilots generating $8MM+ total revenue in license and consulting service fees; clients included Goldman Sachs, Bank of America and Credit Suisse.
• Hired, coached and led sales team of five to make sales calls, make client visits and close deals; generated $10M in sales contracts

Resume accomplishments for sales and marketing

• Generated 50+ donors through cold call sales and systematic email outreach; qualified leads based on industry and location.
• Designed, executed, and optimized digital marketing campaign on Google AdWords; led to 20% increase in ROI.
• Strengthened relationships with 6 strategic partners (including Expedia, Skyscanner and Airbnb) through follow-up meetings with C-suite executives
• Led the firm's sales and business operations in South Africa, responsible for $45MM annual sales and capability building of 200+ sales personnel
• Scripted and tested phone sales process; increased customers by 30% in 6 months
• Hired, coached and led sales team of five to make sales calls, make client visits and close deals; generated $10M in sales contracts

Resume accomplishments focused in engineering

• Developed an Excel macro and standardized reporting templates, resulting in efficient data collection and a 35% reduction in turnaround time.
• Reduced development costs by 25 percent by creating a plan to merge related products into one, more streamlined product.
• Liaised with marketing to drive email and social media advertising efforts, using predictive modeling and clustering, resulting in a 35% increase in revenue
• Designed and implemented behavioral push notifications based on in-app usage; increased retention by 10%
• Overhauled the company's website by increasing graphics usage by 50% and mobile responsiveness by 100%; generated 70% more leads via email capture forms, reduced bounce rate by 20%
• Spearheaded redevelopment of internal tracking system in use by 125 employees, resulting in 20+ new features, reduction of 20% in save/load time and 15% operation time

Find out if your resume highlights your accomplishments

The most effective way to highlight your accomplishments is to make sure each bullet point contains an action verb, task, and metric. These elements help to show recruiters the job you did and how effectively you did it. If you’re not sure if your resume has enough uses of these elements, upload your resume to the tool below — it’ll let you know if your resume has enough uses of power verbs and quantifiable achievements.

How to turn responsibilities into accomplishments

Use numbers or metrics to emphasize your accomplishment

The most surefire way to transform a responsibility into an accomplishment is by adding specific numbers or metrics. This way, you aren’t just saying what you did (created a performance recording template), you’re demonstrating how effectively you did it (reduced preparation time by 80%). Not only do metrics like this help you stand out from other candidates with similar experience, they provide an objective measure of your performance and allow hiring managers to more clearly imagine how you would perform in the new role. For more examples of how to include metrics in your accomplishments, check out our list of 50+ metrics you can use on your resume.

Be specific

One of the worst mistakes you can make on your resume is being vague or generic. Metrics can help with that, but you need to make sure you’re also being specific when you talk about your actions. An accomplishment like “implemented strategy that increased customer base by 1000+ customers” sounds impressive on the surface, but while the numbers are specific, what you actually did remains undefined. Don’t leave hiring managers wondering about how you did something (or whether you were even responsible for the result in the first place).

Describe your actions! For example, “designed and launched customer affiliate program, which led to 1000+ new customers in 6 months and 40% reduced cost-per-acquisition” is specific not just about the end result, but about how you achieved it and what skills you used to do so.

Frequently asked questions

What are examples of accomplishments for students?

If you’re a current student or recent graduate, you still use accomplishments from your studies. Generally, you don’t want to fill your resume up with coursework, but things like university or personal projects, extracurricular activities, internships, and student organizations can all work. It’s okay that these aren’t strictly in a professional context — the trick is to treat them the same way, by pulling out what you’ve accomplished and adding numbers or metrics where you can.

Internships demonstrate your skills and experience in a professional environment. List internships on your resume the same way you would paid experience — focus on the exact accomplishments you achieved, and not just your responsibilities.

Involvement in student organizations and other extracurricular activities can be used to highlight soft skills like leadership, organization, and initiative. Focus on your specific contributions and add metrics to illustrate their impact.

Can you include any responsibilities on your resume?

Yes — just not in your bullet points! If you want to add more context for a previous company or role, you can add a short blurb underneath your job title to give a brief high-level overview of your main responsibilities. Your bullet points for each role should always focus on your accomplishments, however.

Including a short blurb (within around 50 words) to explain 1-2 of your main responsibilities can provide context for a previous role and allow you to focus on accomplishments in your bullet points.

There’s no straightforward answer to how many jobs you should list on your resume. The exact number will vary — depending on how long you’ve been working, how many jobs you’ve held, and how relevant your work experience is. There are, however, a few guidelines you should follow when deciding how many jobs to list on your resume.

How to determine how many jobs to list on your resume

As a general rule of thumb, aim to list 3-6 jobs on your resume, fewer if you’re early in your career. This number isn't absolute — instead, think of it more like a guideline. Instead of building your resume around a predetermined number of jobs, here's how to decide how many jobs really belong on your resume:

1. Read over the job description. If it's an entry-level job, 1-2 jobs should be more than enough. For a senior position that requires 15 years' experience, you're looking at 4-6+ jobs.
2. Consider your experience. If you've only ever held one job, don't try to pad out your resume to make it look like you have more experience than you actually do.
3. Make a list of relevant jobs. Don't try to list every job you've ever held — instead, focus on creating a meaningful timeline. If in doubt, focus on your most recent positions.
4. Instead of limiting the number of jobs you include, limit how far back your resume goes — generally, no more than 15 years.
5. Format your resume work experience correctly. List jobs in reverse chronological order, with your most recent job at the top, and use bullet points to highlight your accomplishments (see our examples below).
6. Take a look at your finished resume. Is it the right length (1-2 pages)? Is it easy to skim? Does it tell a story about why you're the right person for this job in particular?

Pro Tip: A good way to find out if you’ve chosen the right number of jobs for your resume is to upload it to the tool below — it’ll scan it and let you know if you’ve listed the right number of jobs based on your experience, accomplishments and skill set.

Deciding how many jobs to list on a resume

Still not sure how many jobs is the right number to list on your resume? Base your decision on these important factors:

Based on your experience

If you’re new to the workforce or have stayed in one job for a long time, it’s fine to list a smaller number of jobs. It's better to focus on meaningful accomplishments than to pad out your work experience section with fluff.

If you’ve changed careers, stick to the positions you’ve held that are most relevant. That might mean leaving off a huge chunk of your work history — to avoid looking like you lack professional experience, add a summary at the top of your resume to explain the career change and highlight your transferable skills.

Even if you have a lot of experience, consider leaving off jobs that are a) older or b) lack relevant accomplishments. It’s okay to curate your resume to tell the story you want it to tell, which may mean choosing a smaller number of jobs with more impressive accomplishments.

Pro Tip: Choose from 250+ resume guides and examples based on your industry and level of experience.

Based on the job

Another good place to start when deciding how many jobs to list on your resume is with the job description itself. The type of job and number of years of experience required should give you a feel for how many jobs to list. For example, If a job asks for 10 years’ experience, make sure your resume goes back at least 10 years.

You should also list accomplishments that relate to each duty or ‘must have’ listed in the job ad, which means choosing past jobs that are the most similar — or, if those jobs were in a different role or industry, ones that demonstrate relevant transferable skills.

Pro Tip: Include hard skills and keywords that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Use the skills search tool below to find the right one.

Based on your resume

If your resume is getting too long — generally more than 1 page for entry-level and early career positions, or 2 pages for those with more experience — cut down the number of jobs you list. If listing older jobs means you’re having to include less impressive ones to fill in the gaps, consider creating a specific timeline — 5-10 years is fine, unless you’re specifically applying for jobs that require more experience. Showing key skills, relevant accomplishments, and meaningful career progression is more important than a huge breadth of unrelated experience.

Pro Tip: In general, you should limit your resume to the past 15 years. For most people, this might include 3-6 jobs, but the exact number of jobs is less important than their relevance to the position you’re applying for now.

Resume template

To get an idea of what your resume should look like, here’s an example:

You can access the resume template in Google Docs or download it as a pdf file.

How to make your resume the right length — every time

If your resume is too short

If you're just starting out, don't panic! You can still write an effective resume even if you've only ever held one job — or none at all. Instead of keeping that one job from when you waited tables for a summer in high school, consider including:

• Volunteer work
• Internships
• Projects
• Education (including relevant coursework and student activities)

If your resume is too long

If you've been in the workforce for a long time, chances are you've amassed a lot of experience. That doesn't mean you need to include it all on your resume, especially if you started out 15+ years ago. To condense an extensive work history:

• If you have a lot of short-term, contract, or freelance positions, combine related jobs under a single heading.
• If you've changed careers, split your experience into a "relevant experience" section and an "additional experience" section.
• If you have older jobs that are still relevant, list fewer (1-2) bullet points or just list the essential details — the employer, job title, and dates.

Pro Tip: Read our guide on how to list work experience on your resume for expert advice on how to make your resume stand out — no matter how much experience you have.

General tips for listing jobs on your resume

List jobs in chronological order, with your most recent job first. Don’t be tempted to use a functional resume format (which leaves off the dates of employment) to conceal awkward gaps — it will only make hiring managers wonder what you’re trying to hide.

Include 3-6 bullet points for more recent roles and 1-2 for older positions.

Don’t list every single job you’ve ever held. Only include those that strengthen your candidacy. That means jobs that are similar or in some way are relevant to the job you’re applying for and that have meaningful accomplishments — which generally excludes jobs you only held for a few months.

Avoid leaving huge gaps in your resume. If necessary, group multiple short-term roles under a single heading, like “contract work.” This looks neater and allows you to pull out more accomplishments than you’d be able to for each job individually.

Include relevant skills and keywords. Technical skills can go in a separate section at the end of your resume — listing 5-10 skills on a resume is ideal.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to list every job on my resume?

Nope! Your resume doesn’t have to be a complete job history. Only include jobs that are relevant and that strengthen your candidacy.

Do I need to list every job on an application form?

It depends. If the form specifies a complete job history, then yes. Otherwise, treat it the same as you would your resume and list the most relevant ones only.

Can I pick and choose which jobs to list on my resume?

To some extent, yes. You can leave off older or short-term jobs, but leaving off a long-term position while including older and newer positions can make it look like you were unemployed for that period and leave the recruiter with questions.

Do I need to list short-term jobs?

No. If you held a job for less than 6 months or so, consider leaving it off your resume altogether unless there’s a very compelling reason for including it.

What if I have too many jobs to list?

If you’ve held multiple short-term jobs and leaving them off would create a noticeable resume gap, see if they have anything common that you could list under a single heading, like “contract work.”

I was fired. Do I still need to list that job on my resume?

It depends on the circumstances. If you were let go for a reason outside your control (like the company downsizing or restructuring), it’s fine to include it and won’t reflect badly on you. On the other hand, if you were fired for cause, you may want to leave that job off your resume. This is especially true if you want to avoid recruiters digging any further — remember, hiring managers can contact people from any job you list on your resume, not just those you list as references.

Similar to the above, if you’re filling out an application form that specifies a complete job history or asks if you’ve ever been fired, you do need to answer honestly. Reference checks are a thing, and it’s better to miss out on a job offer than to be fired (again).

It isn’t just a trend — Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are here to stay. Reports from the past few years suggest that up to 75% of companies use an ATS, including nearly 100% of Fortune 500 companies. Luckily, getting your resume past the ATS bot isn’t as hard as you may think. This guide contains everything you need to know about how to beat Applicant Tracking Systems and get your resume into the hands of a hiring manager.

How to beat Applicant Tracking Systems: A checklist

Not sure what ATS are or how to get started? Here's a handy checklist to keep you on track.

• Learn what Applicant Tracking Systems are and how they work.
• Read a quick-start guide on how to beat ATS.
• Follow our tips for creating an ATS-friendly resume.
• Find out what content ATS are really looking for in a resume.
• Avoid the most common ATS errors.
• Test your resume against an ATS screener.
• Get the lowdown on the biggest do's and don'ts of trying to beat resume tracking systems — including how (not) to cheat the system.
• Check our FAQ section for the answers to any lingering questions.

What are Applicant Tracking Systems?

Applicant Tracking Systems are automated programs that scan resumes for specific keywords and filter out any that don’t meet their criteria. But resume tracking systems aren't perfect — in fact, most hiring managers admit that some qualified candidates are probably being filtered out.

How do Applicant Tracking Systems actually work?

Here’s a look at an Applicant Tracking System in action:

• A company has an opening for a Software Engineering role that requires experience with Java.
• The job opening is posted on popular job search sites like Indeed.
• The hiring manager receives 250+ applications from people with backgrounds in sales, marketing, and human resources as well as those with software engineering experience.
• The company searches their ATS for the keyword (“Java”) in all resumes.
• The ATS shows resumes that have the relevant keyword (“Java”) and those without.
• The hiring manager reads only the resumes that mentioned Java.

The benefits? The hiring manager now only has to read a manageable number of resumes and hasn’t wasted their time on a hundred job applicants without the necessary experience. Potential downsides? Some exceptional candidates may be discarded in error because the ATS couldn't find what it was looking for (more on that later).

Despite that risk, more and more companies are making the switch. That’s where we come in — our guide aims to minimize the number of job seekers getting unfairly rejected.

A step-by-step guide to beating Applicant Tracking Systems

It may seem complicated, but beating resume tracking systems isn't actually that hard. Let's break it down, step by step.

1. Start fresh by creating your resume in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Other text editors are okay, but steer clear of fancy image-based resume programs.
2. Use a standard resume layout. If in doubt, use a ready-made ATS resume template.
3. Tailor your resume to each specific job you apply to by using keywords from the job description.
4. Carefully check your resume for any errors, including spelling and grammar.
5. Make sure that ATS programs can read your resume by uploading it to a free ATS resume scanner.
6. Don't apply for too many roles at the same company — stick to the positions you're most qualified for.
7. Always follow instructions — even if they contradict best practices.

The key to beating ATS

Want it even simpler than that? Here it is!

What does that mean in practice?

• Using an ATS-friendly resume format so resume tracking systems can understand the information on your resume.
• Including relevant information on your resume so the ATS can see that you're a good fit for the job and pass your resume along to the hiring manager.

Let's take a look at those core principles in a little more detail.

Tips for creating a resume that can beat ATS

The best way to make sure Applicant Tracking Systems can read your resume? Keep it simple.

To keep your resume ATS-friendly:

• Choose a chronological resume format
• Use a basic template
• Stick to standard resume fonts
• Avoid complicated formatting
• Export your resume in PDF format

Choose a chronological resume format

ATS are programmed to prefer a chronological resume format. List your jobs in order, with your most recent position at the top. Functional resume formats — which don't list dates or sometimes even job titles — risk confusing Applicant Tracking Systems. (And human recruiters hate them, too!)

Use a basic template

Don’t fall for the common misconception that you need to use a fancy or creative template in order to stand out — keeping it simple is the best strategy.

A single-column layout is best; while some ATS are getting better at reading multi-column layouts, they can still glitch and parse things incorrectly. For example, if your work history is in one column and your education is in another, an ATS could read them as one single section and fail to properly understand your experience.

And don't use tables — similar to multi-column layouts, tables rarely get parsed correctly by ATS, so it’s best to avoid them entirely. Use tabs and right/left aligns to structure your resume instead.

Stick to standard resume fonts

Stick with a screen-friendly sans serif font like Arial, Calibri, or Garamond. Some newer fonts convert letters to special characters which often get scanned incorrectly by ATS. And never use a downloaded font on your resume, especially if you're submitting it as a Word document — chances are, the hiring manager won't have the same font downloaded, which will make your resume look like gibberish to a resume scanner and a human recruiter.

Avoid complicated formatting

Don't get too hung up on trying to make your resume look good. Not only do most recruiters prefer a plain resume, most fancy additions will also confuse Applicant Tracking Systems. In particular, stay away from using:

• images
• tables
• text boxes
• graphics
• logos
• photographs
• columns
• graphs and charts
• headers and footers for important information (most ATS will skip these)
• embedded hyperlinks (including links in your resume is okay, but always paste the link in plain text)

How can you make important information on your resume stand out? It's okay to use:

• bold
• italics
• underline
• capital letters
• white space
• section breaks
• bullet points
• color (different colors won't display in ATS programs, but they won't cause any issues)

Export your resume in PDF format

It’s almost always best to submit your resume as a PDF. Why? Different versions of Word can change your layout, fonts, and formatting — chances are you’ve worked hard to make sure your resume looks good, and you shouldn’t risk messing that up. It’s also more easily shareable — with a PDF, recruiters and hiring managers don’t need to have Office installed to read your resume.

When shouldn't you save your resume as a PDF? When you've been asked to submit it in Word, Google Docs, or another format. Always prioritize following instructions over anything else!

What to put in your resume to beat Applicant Tracking Systems

Now that you know an ATS can actually read your resume, it’s time to make sure it reads the right things! Tailoring your resume to target the skills and experience the employer is looking for will give it a high enough score to get it past the ATS and into the hands of a recruiter.

Here's what you need to do to get your resume past ATS:

• Use the right keywords
• ... without keyword stuffing
• Tailor your resume to the job you're applying for
• Use standard section titles
• Spell out abbreviations and acronyms
• Avoid buzzwords
• Check your spelling and grammar
• If you're changing careers, consider adding a resume summary

Use Applicant Tracking System keywords

The best way to beat Applicant Tracking Systems is to use the right keywords. How do you know which keywords are the right ones?

• Look at the job ad! Employers will generally include a list of "must haves" — the skills and experience they're specifically looking for. These are the important keywords you'll want to include.
• Save the job description when you apply — the employer may take the opening down by the time you get to the interview stage, and you’ll want to have it handy as a reference.
• Use the tool below to search for the job you’re applying for. It’ll give you a list of relevant keywords to use in your resume.

Avoid keyword stuffing

Including keywords = good. Keyword stuffing = bad.

So what’s the difference? Use keywords in the right context and don’t overuse them. It’s better to use a handful of keywords naturally throughout your resume than to have a whole section of gibberish. The latter may help you get past an ATS, but it’ll get that same resume thrown out as soon as it hits a recruiter’s desk. The trick is to identify the most relevant or “high value” keywords and use those sparingly — never compromise the readability of your resume for the sake of including extra information.

Tailor your resume

There are a lot of different ways to tailor your resume, some easier than others:

• Use a resume title that matches the title of the job you're applying for.
• Clarify your job titles if they're not an exact match. That might mean changing your job title (if it's functionally the same role) or listing a more descriptive job title in parentheses next to your actual position.
• Change up your skills section. This can be easily customized for each job you apply for and will only take a couple of minutes.
• Customize your work experience section by listing your most relevant jobs and accomplishments. This one takes a little longer, but is worthwhile if you're applying for your dream job.
• Upload your resume to our Targeted Resume tool. It will do the job for you by analyzing the job posting and telling you what keywords you’re missing.

Use standard section titles

Hiring managers don’t love non-standard section titles, and it gets even worse when an ATS gets involved. Avoid trying to liven up your resume with headings like, “My career in a nutshell.” “Work experience” already says everything it needs to, and it’s what the ATS will be scanning for, so don’t make it any harder to find than it needs to be.

Make sure the ATS — and the real person who’s going to read your resume afterward — understands exactly what you mean (without having to think too hard about it).

Spell out abbreviations and acronyms

One significant downside of ATS is that they can't think for themselves. They're programmed to look for exact keyword matches, which often doesn't include variations.

If you can, try to include each keyword exactly as it appears on the job description. This means using the same spelling and abbreviations (but not including endless variations of the same keyword or twisting your sentences until they’re no longer grammatically correct). If the Applicant Tracking System keyword is an acronym, include both the full and abbreviated form.

Don’t use buzzwords

Here's a tip: Applicant Tracking Systems will never, ever search resumes for words like “hard-working”, “determined,” or “go-getter.” These are meaningless buzzwords that won't help you get past the ATS — but they will make your resume look worse to a recruiter.

For that matter, resume tracking systems won't look for soft skills, either, which means you can stop agonizing over how to naturally mention the fact that you're a motivated, flexible team player with leadership skills. Even if they’re on the job description, keywords like those are ones you can leave off your resume guilt-free.

Check your spelling and grammar

This might sound so obvious that it goes without saying, but trust us — check your spelling and grammar. While a hiring manager reading your resume will probably figure out that "alanyst" actually means "analyst," an ATS won't. The last thing you want is to have your resume rejected over a typo!

Tips for career changers: Use a resume summary

If you’re changing careers and have never worked in a similar role to the one you’re applying for, consider including a resume summary — a short paragraph briefly outlining your experience and what you’re looking for.

A resume summary gives you a chance to include skills and keywords that might not have a place elsewhere in your resume. This doesn’t mean you should say you’ve held a similar role if you haven’t — instead, use it to emphasize your transferable skills. If you’ve upskilled or completed any relevant qualifications, draw attention to them here as well as including them in your education section.

Common ATS errors (and how to avoid them)

There are only two reasons your resume won't make it past ATS:

• You don't have the background or experience the hiring manager is looking for
• It was a mistake

We can't do much about the first reason, but the second one is an easy fix. Here are some reasons an ATS might incorrectly reject your resume and how you can avoid it happening:

Error:
The ATS can't read your resume.

Fix:
- Check our tips above on how to format your resume.
- Remove any non-standard formatting, downloaded fonts, or images.
- Follow the steps below to check your resume against ATS scanners.

Error:
The ATS didn't find an essential keyword.

Fix:
- Check the job description for must-have skills.
- Use our skills and keywords finder or Targeted Resume tool to suggest keywords.
- Double check that you've spelled everything correctly.

Error:
The ATS doesn't think you have the right experience.

Fix:
- Use the exact job title somewhere on your resume.
- Clarify your previous job title(s) if they don't match the new role.
- Spell our acronyms and use the same wording as in the job description.

Find out if your resume is ATS-proof

Put simply, if your resume includes the most important keywords of the job, and was made in a simple word processing software (like Word or Google Docs, and was exported into a readable PDF), you can be pretty confident you'll pass the ATS.

Let's break it down further — here's how to test your resume:

• Create your resume in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or any other word processing program.
• Don't use Canva or Photoshop. Your resume might look amazing, but most ATS can't read Canva (or other image-based) resumes.
• Don’t scan and upload your resume — this can make it nearly impossible for the ATS to read.
• Open your resume in Chrome, Preview, or Adobe Acrobat Reader and see if you can highlight/select the text. This is very similar to how ATS "read" resumes — if you can’t highlight the text, neither can the ATS.
• Upload your resume for free to the Score My Resume tool below and ensure your sections and bullet points are correctly identified. You’ll also get detailed feedback on how to improve your resume’s impact and bullet points. That way, you’ll also impress a recruiter after the initial resume screen.

Do's and don'ts of getting your resume past ATS (aka. how to beat the system)

Want a sure-fire way to 'trick' the ATS? Here it is:

You can't.

Don't try to 'trick' the ATS. Your resume will ultimately go to a hiring manager for a review, so trying to trick the 'ATS' by stuffing in keywords is a good way to not pass that hiring manager review.

Let's dive into some do's and don'ts.

• DON'T copy and paste the entire job description in small, white text at the bottom of your resume. ATS will often strip out the formatting to show hiring managers the skill in context, making it very obvious that you tried to cheat.
• DON'T create a "keywords section" or otherwise copy and paste endless variations of the same keyword. You might get past the resume tracking systems, but you'll likely be immediately rejected by the hiring manager.
• DO follow the steps above to test whether Applicant Tracking Systems can read your resume.
• DO spend time tailoring your resume so it's ready to impress a hiring manager — not just a machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many companies use ATS?

Different surveys over the past few years have put the overall number somewhere between 55% to 75%. We do know for sure that a) a majority of companies use ATS, and b) bigger companies are more likely to use them than smaller ones — in fact, a whopping 99% of Fortune 500 companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems.

How many Applicant Tracking Systems are there?

It's hard to pin down an exact number, but current estimates are that there are around 350 different resume tracking systems.

What are the most common Applicant Tracking Systems?

Some of the most common ATS software include Workday, LinkedIn Recruiter, Recruiterbox, Jobvite, iCIMS, Taleo, and LeverTRM.

Are some Applicant Tracking Systems different?

There are different kinds of ATS, but they all do the same thing. You don’t need to worry about figuring out which specific ATS you’re up against — the steps above will ensure your resume gets read by all ATS, no matter what software they use.

What do ATS look for?

It's important to understand that resume scanners aren't 100% automated — there's always a real person at the other end of the ATS software. The hiring manager decides what non-negotiable skills or experience they’re looking for and programs the ATS to scan for those keywords.

ATS will only ever scan for hard skills, so while "PMP" or "InDesign" may be ATS keywords, "time management" won't be.

How do ATS algorithms work?

Again, that depends on how the company has decided to use their ATS. Most ATS are programmed with basic filters — for example, scanning for resumes that use the keyword "sales" or looking for resume gaps by scanning dates of employment. Sometimes, resumes that don't match the ATS algorithm will be automatically discarded. Other times, these keywords will simply be flagged to make your resume easier for hiring managers to skim, or your resume may be given a preliminary score to speed up the recruitment process.

ATS can also be used earlier in the job application process. When submitting an online application, you'll often need to answer questions about things like your background and availability. Some of these are knockout questions — for example, if the application asks whether you possess a certain qualification or are willing to travel, answering "no" to these questions can lead to automatic rejection.

How effective are ATS?

According to a report from Harvard Business School, over 80% of employers agree that qualified candidates are being screened out of the hiring process because their skills and experience don't exactly match the criteria in the applicant tracking software. That's why it's so important to use the right keywords — if in doubt, always check the job ad, as ATS keywords are likely to use the same phrasing.

Do ATS really reject 75% of resumes?

No. You may have seen the claim that 75% of resumes are rejected by an ATS before a human ever sees them, sometimes re-dated to look like current research. That figure traces back to a single vendor survey from 2013 and has never been replicated. An ATS is a search and ranking tool, not a rejection machine: it organizes applications and surfaces the ones that match what the hiring team searches for, and a person decides who moves forward. The statistics that do hold up are about adoption (most companies use one), not automatic rejection.

Why do companies use ATS?

If it’s so flawed, why use it? The simple answer is, it saves companies time and money. The average job posting gets over 250 applicants, and a lot of those are the result of job hunters mass applying to every semi-relevant job they can find. Instead of paying an employee to manually read through every application, an ATS can quickly scan resumes and filter out unqualified applicants, narrowing down the pool to a much more reasonable size.

Will a real person read my resume?

Yes! The ATS is just the first step. Once your resume gets past the ATS, it will be manually reviewed by a human recruiter or hiring manager. This means no keyword stuffing or cheap tricks like including a copy of the job description in your resume. The ATS doesn’t decide who gets the job — just who gets in the front door.

Do ATS check cover letters?

Not usually, no. Cover letters are a more personal touch and a way for the hiring manager to get to know more about you, so don't worry about optimizing them for ATS.

Can I cheat the system?

Nope, sorry! Beating Applicant Tracking Systems isn't about finding a shortcut — it's about including the right keywords and making sure ATS can easily read your resume.

Work experience, education, skills: Check! You’ve got all the essential parts of your resume down … but what’s going to show off your quintessential you-ness?

This is where an “About Me” section can come in handy. An "About Me" section in a resume is a concise personal statement that serves as your professional introduction, highlighting your unique skills and background.

The short answer: write 2-3 sentences (100-150 words at most) that name the job title you’re targeting, one or two accomplishments with numbers behind them, and the two or three skills that matter most for this specific job. Write it last, once the rest of your resume is done, and tweak it for every application.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through the nuts and bolts of crafting a compelling “About Me” section. We'll cover its purpose, help you decide if you really need one, and dive into what to include if you do, with real-life examples and templates.

What is an “About Me” section? And why might you need one?

An “About Me” section on a resume is a brief personal statement, usually at the top of your resume, that provides a snapshot of who you are, what your professional background is, and what you bring to the table.

Think of it as your resume’s handshake – it’s the first impression that sets the tone. In a sea of standard resumes, an effective “About Me” section can be the sparkle that catches the recruiter’s eye. It’s like saying, “Hey, not only do I have the skills and experience, but here’s my unique flavor that I bring to the table.”

Sounds a lot like a resume summary? It’s more or less the same thing, so you can think of it in whatever way makes the most sense to you. Just remember that an “About Me” section needs to follow the same rules as a professional summary — in other words, keep it brief, optimize it with keywords, include quantifiable metrics, and skip the hobbies!

This little snippet is more than just a chance to toot your own horn. It’s your elevator pitch, your personal brand, your “why you should hire me” in a nutshell.

If you're wondering whether an “About Me”  section fits on your resume, upload it to the tool below. It scans your resume, offering personalized insights not only on the inclusion of an “About Me”  section but also on other sections within your resume.

Do you need an “About Me” section?

Whether you should include an “About Me” section (or any other optional section) on your resume depends on a few different factors.

You should include an “About Me” section if:

• You have extensive work experience or a particularly long (2+ page) resume. If you find it tough to distill a long career into a few brief sentences, imagine how a recruiter feels skimming your resume!
• You’re changing careers, moving to a similar role in a new industry, or shifting job titles. In cases like this, an “About Me” section can provide helpful context about how your experience fits the role you’re applying for.
• The job posting asked for a specific background or qualifications and you want to highlight these upfront.

On the other hand, it’s best to skip the “About Me” section if:

• You’re a student, recent graduate, or otherwise at the beginning of your career.
• Your resume is already packed and including an extra section would push it onto a second page
• You find yourself just repeating things that are obvious from your resume itself.

Now that you know whether you need an “About Me” section, let’s discuss what needs to be in it.

What should an “About Me” section include?

Your “About Me” section should always mention your:

• Job title
• Achievements
• Metrics
• Relevant skills
• Career highlights

Here’s how to (briefly) cover each one.

Job title

This should be the title of the job you’re applying for, even if it’s not the same as your current job title. For example, even if your current job title is “Social Media Staffer” in your Experience section, you should start with something like “Experienced Marketing Manager” if that’s the job you’re applying for now.

Accomplishments

Try to pick one or two standout accomplishments to mention here. For example, “I have over 5 years of experience in digital marketing, having successfully managed campaigns that increased ROI by 30%.”

Metrics

Just because it’s called an “About Me,” section, that doesn’t mean it should be light and fluffy. Drive your accomplishments home by including specific performance metrics for key soft skills. Instead of saying, “I excel at customer service,” try something like, “Improved customer satisfaction ratings by 20% through effective client management.”

Skills

Instead of rehashing your entire Skills section, pick 2-3 hard skills that are particularly important for the job you’re applying for. For example, “Proficient in data analysis, project management, and web development.”

Highlights

Think of your “About Me” section as a kind of career highlights reel. Try coming up with a sentence that briefly summarizes your core experience so recruiters know exactly who you are at a glance. For example, “Over a decade of experience in marketing, consistently exceeding sales targets and leading successful campaigns.”

Do’s and don’ts for writing an “About Me” section

Before you dive in, here are a few guidelines you should keep in mind when writing your “About Me” section

DO: Keep it brief. No more than 2-3 sentences or 100-150 words is ideal.

DO: Focus on the company’s needs instead of your own. The days of a resume objective where you explained the kind of role you’re seeking are long past. When writing your “About Me” section, consider details mentioned in the job posting and find a way to incorporate these — for example, if the company website repeatedly mentions innovation, try including something like, “Dedicated to delivering innovative solutions to drive company growth.”

DON’T: Get too personal. Hobbies and interests rarely belong on a resume, and definitely not in your “About Me” section — despite the name. Likewise, don’t write it as if you’re writing to a friend; stick to an upbeat, professional tone.

DO: Strike a balance between personal and professional. Not including hobbies doesn’t mean your “About Me” section can’t have a little personality to it. Try adding a small personal touch like, “I blend my passion for technology with a strong background in project management.”

DON’T: Resort to cliches. Instead of a sentence like, “I'm a team player with excellent communication skills” — which means nothing and is likely to make the hiring manager’s eyes glaze over — be specific about what you’ve accomplished.

DO: Tailor your “About Me” section when applying for different roles or companies. Since it’s such a small but prominent section, customizing it for each application can make a big difference without being too time-consuming.

DON’T: Forget about keywords. Including keywords like the job title and specific hard skills from the job posting can make the difference between getting past ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) and being relegated to the trash pile.

DO: Run your resume through a resume checker. Resume Worded’s free tools like Score My Resume and Targeted Resume can provide tailored feedback to help you optimize your “About Me” section for keywords and readability.

“About Me” templates by career level

Ready to get started? Here are some templates you can customize to write your own “About Me” resume section, no matter what stage of your career you’re at.

Entry level

Recent graduate with a [Your Degree] from [Your University]. Eager to kickstart my career and apply my strong [Key Skill] and [Another Key Skill] skills in a professional setting. Excited to contribute to a dynamic team and learn from experienced professionals.

Mid career

[Job Title] with over [X years] of experience in [Your Field], I have consistently delivered exceptional results. My expertise in [Your Industry] and [Key Skill] has led to [mention a significant achievement]. I am now seeking a new opportunity to further leverage my skills and drive [specific goals] in a [target industry/role].

Experienced professional

[Executive] with a track record of [mention relevant accomplishments], I bring over [X years] of experience in [Your Industry]. My expertise in [Key Skill], combined with a history of leading [mention team/project], uniquely positions me to make an impact in [target industry/role]. I am dedicated to [mention your professional goal or vision].

Career changer

Transitioning from [Your Previous Career] to [Your Target Career], I offer a unique blend of skills and experiences. With a background in [mention key transferable skills], I am excited to apply my talents to [target industry/role]. My commitment to [mention your commitment to the new career] drives my passion for [what you aim to achieve].

“About Me” examples by job

Want to see what an “About Me” section looks like in action? Here are some examples for different roles and industries, including changing careers. Feel free to take on (or more) of these and tweak it to make it your own!

Marketing manager

Marketing Manager with over 5 years of experience in creating and executing data-driven marketing strategies. My strong analytical skills and in-depth knowledge of SEO and SEM have consistently driven traffic and revenue growth by over 20%.

IT specialist

With a background in IT spanning 8 years, I have honed my skills in network administration, system troubleshooting, and cybersecurity. My experience includes successfully implementing robust security protocols that reduced data breaches by 40%. I thrive in fast-paced, challenging environments and am committed to maintaining the highest level of IT security.

Product manager

As a seasoned project manager, I have overseen complex initiatives from conception to completion, ensuring on-time delivery and cost efficiency. My proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and streamline processes has consistently resulted in projects being completed 15% under budget.

Data analyst (career change)

Transitioning from a background in finance to a data analyst role, I bring strong quantitative and data analysis skills. My proficiency in financial modeling and my attention to detail are valuable assets in making data-driven decisions. I am excited to apply my analytical mindset to provide insights and drive success in the field of data analysis.

Understand your deeper motivations

Crafting an authentic "About Me" section starts with understanding your genuine strengths and values.

If you're struggling to articulate what makes you unique, tools like the Coached test (which is so cool!), Character Strengths Test or Personal Values Assessment can help you identify the core attributes that differentiate you—making your personal statement more authentic and compelling.

Frequently asked questions

How do you write an “About Me” in a resume?

Start with the job title you’re applying for, add one or two accomplishments with concrete numbers, then close with the skills that match the job description. Keep it to 2-3 sentences at the top of your resume, and rewrite it slightly for each role you apply to.

What should you write in the “About Me” section of a resume?

Five things: your professional title, your standout achievements, the metrics that back them up, your most relevant skills, and a career highlight that shows what you’ll bring to this employer. Leave out hobbies, clichés, and anything already obvious from the rest of the page.

Is an “About Me” section the same as a resume summary?

Essentially, yes. Both are short professional introductions at the top of your resume, and the same rules apply to each: be brief and specific, focus on the employer’s needs, and include keywords from the job posting. Use whichever heading you prefer, but never include both.

You finished your MBA, which means the hard part is done. All you need to do now is list it on your resume, which should be easy … right?

Right! Keep scrolling as we lay out exactly where to put an MBA on your resume (hint: start with the Education section), when an MBA has the most impact, and how to make the most of it beyond simply listing your credentials.

Where to put an MBA on your resume

The obvious answer for where to list your MBA is in the Education section, and that’s a good place to start — but that doesn’t mean you should stop there. Mentioning your MBA in other areas (like your resume title and summary) can help up the impact without a lot of extra effort. Here’s how.

Listing an MBA in your Education section

This is the most traditional place to list an MBA on your resume. Make sure to include any relevant specializations, coursework, or capstone projects. Write the degree out once in full with the abbreviation, “Master of Business Administration (MBA)”, so your entry matches whichever version a recruiter or ATS searches for. And skip the periods: MBA, not M.B.A. Here’s an example:

And here’s a text version you can copy, paste, and edit:

Stanford Graduate School of Business
MBA in Business Analytics
Specialized in predictive modeling and data visualization. Led a team project analyzing e-commerce customer data, resulting in a hypothetical sales increase of 20%.

Leading with an MBA in your resume title

Want to instantly grab a hiring manager’s attention? Put your MBA front and center in your resume title for instant credibility when applying for leadership roles.

Here’s an example:

Name-dropping an MBA in your resume summary

For extra impact, you can also weave your MBA into a resume summary, but exercise caution: It is possible to have too much of a good thing, so make sure you’re not beating recruiters over the head with your MBA. You should only have a resume summary if you actually need one, and you only need to mention your MBA there if it genuinely enhances your job prospects (for example, if an MBA is a must-have for the role and you specialized in an area that dovetails with what the company is looking for).

Here’s an example:

And here’s a text version you can tweak to make your own:

Tech Leader with an MBA specializing in Information Systems. 8+ years of experience leading cross-functional teams to design, build and launch products and solutions. Key achievement: Supervised 10+ market research and user analytics projects by communicating with 300+ prospective customers to identify key pain points.

Remember that your resume is a marketing document — you don’t want to undersell or oversell yourself. Every piece of information on it — including your MBA — needs to serve a clear purpose.

A good way to find out if you have listed your MBA in the best section of your resume, is to upload it to the tool below. It’ll scan your resume sections and provide suggestions for improvement.

When you should flaunt your MBA

Here’s an uncomfortable truth: Your MBA isn’t always going to be the asset you think it is. Sometimes, it makes sense to emphasize your MBA… but not always. Here’s the lowdown on what types of roles can benefit the most from highlighting an MBA — and when you should focus on other things instead.

Technical roles

If you’re applying for big-name companies, it might seem like an MBA is a must-have, but for technical roles like a Data Scientist at Google, an MBA might be seen as an interesting add-on but not a key qualifier.

Listing your MBA prominently for technical roles can signal that you’re more inclined toward management than hardcore data analysis. If the hiring manager is looking for more focused technical types, this could raise eyebrows or even cause them to pass you over.

This doesn’t mean you need to leave your MBA off your resume entirely, but mentioning it once in your Education section is enough. You should also make sure to balance it out with specific technical skills and qualifications so that recruiters are more likely to see you as a technical whiz who also has good soft skills.

If you’re not sure which of your technical skills to list on your resume, use the tool below to get a list of relevant skills and keywords.

Project management

If you’re looking for Project Manager roles, your MBA becomes a little more relevant. This is especially true when looking at tech startups, where breadth of experience is essential. Here, an MBA can be your trump card — use it to paint a picture of yourself as someone who excels both at the technical and business aspects of their role, with the technical acumen to guide projects and the business sense to navigate the wider context.

Senior leadership

If you've set your sights on a senior leadership role, your MBA should take center stage. This includes roles in management consulting, finance, or any kind of leadership role at a Fortune 500 company (for example, if you’re applying for an Investment Banker position at Goldman Sachs or Strategy Consultant at Boston Consulting Group).

These companies are actively looking for candidates with the qualities you’ll find in an MBA, like analytical and strategic planning skills. Even better if you got your MBA from a big-name school like Harvard or Wharton, which still makes a difference with more traditional employers.

Career change

If you're on the verge of a career change and looking to use your MBA as a springboard into a new industry or role, then your MBA is important — but not as important as demonstrating transferable skills.

In this case, it’s not enough to just list your MBA and expect hiring managers to do the rest — you need to connect the dots for them. You can do this by expanding on your MBA in your Education section or resume summary, for example:

MBA, Operations Management, MIT Sloan School of Management. Pivoting from a marketing role, focused MBA coursework on supply chain logistics and operational efficiency. Led a team project to streamline production processes for a manufacturing firm, reducing waste by 20%.

Explicitly addressing your career change here makes a huge difference. Add in your MBA as a key qualification for the new role and outline 1-2 relevant accomplishments to seal the deal and really grab a hiring manager’s attention.

How to highlight an MBA for maximum impact

An MBA is a prestigious qualification, but it's also increasingly common — online programs and night schools have made this once-rare asset much more accessible. This means that you can no longer expect your degree to do the heavy lifting for you — to really stand out, you need to transform your MBA into something more than just letters on a page.

Here’s how to make the most of your MBA.

Add specific focus and coursework

Like anything else on your resume, you need to customize your MBA to fit the job you want. Adding a short blurb after your degree lets you address essential skills and keywords you may not have covered elsewhere. For example:

X MBA in Finance from Columbia Business School.

√ MBA, Finance - Columbia Business School, with emphasis on portfolio management and corporate finance. Led a project on real estate investment strategies, earning top marks.

Showcase MBA-driven skills

The next step is to spend some time analyzing the job description itself. What skills are they looking for on an MBA resume? You can use relevant coursework and projects to address these. For example:

If the job requires: Supply chain management

You could write: Completed an MBA module on supply chain optimization and led a project simulating supply chain processes to reduce costs by 20%.

Articulate the practical value of your MBA

An MBA, more so than a lot of graduate degrees, is a practical qualification. Hiring managers want to see more than a string of letters after your name — they want to know what you’ve done with it. Make sure to include examples of how you’ve used the skills you gained during your MBA in real-world situations, for example:

Leveraged MBA knowledge in business strategy to lead a process optimization project at Company Y, resulting in a 30% improvement in operational efficiency.

Quantify the impact of your MBA

If you’ve gone all the way through your MBA, you know the importance of numbers. Try to quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, for example:

Bad: Completed MBA capstone project.

Okay: MBA capstone project — Devised a growth strategy for a struggling restaurant in a simulated business environment.

Great: MBA Capstone Project — Devised a growth strategy for a struggling restaurant in a simulated business environment, leading to a 40% increase in projected profits.

Above all, remember that your MBA isn't just a testament to your ability to handle academic rigor — it's a symbol of practical business expertise. On its own, it won’t do much for your resume, but alongside real examples and quantified accomplishments, it can turn heads.

“Looking for a self-motivated go-getter to work in a dynamic, fast paced environment …”

Sound familiar? It should — you’ll find some variation of that job description nearly everywhere you look. But what does it really mean? And how can you address your ability to work in a high stress environment on your resume?

It may seem like employers who use these kinds of buzzwords are playing games, but more likely, they don’t list specific hard skills because that’s not what they need. Instead, they’re looking for evidence of transferable skills — things like organization, multitasking, and the ability to cope with a non-stop work environment.

Here’s how to put evidence of those things on your resume.

How to say you can work in a fast paced environment on a resume

1. Rule #1: Never come right out and say it. Phrases like “fast paced environment” are meaningless buzzwords on their own, so keep them off your resume.
2. Instead, brainstorm the times you’ve worked in a high stress environment. What did you do to keep on top of it? What were your key accomplishments?
3. Match these accomplishments to the job description. If the job involves “wearing many hats,” talk about a time when you had to juggle multiple priorities. If it’s a “high stress environment,” choose an example of when you worked on a high-stakes project.
4. Format your accomplishments as short (1-2 line) bullet points. Aim for 3-6 bullet points per job.
5. Start each bullet point with a strong action verb that accurately describes what you actually did.
6. Add metrics to quantify your accomplishments. To illustrate a fast paced environment, include things like the number of tasks you completed and how quickly you got things done.
7. Run your resume through a free resume checker for feedback on how well you scored and to highlight any essential skills or keywords you may have missed.

Synonyms for “fast-paced environment” that actually say something

Sometimes you do need the phrase itself, usually in a resume summary or cover letter that echoes the job posting. If so, swap “fast-paced” for a phrase that says something specific about the pace, then back it up with a number:

• Deadline-driven: the work is paced by hard due dates (publishing, client deliverables, reporting cycles).
• High-volume: the work is paced by sheer quantity (support tickets, orders, patient load).
• Time-sensitive: delays have real consequences (healthcare, logistics, incident response).
• Rapidly scaling: the company is growing faster than its processes, so priorities shift weekly (startups).
• High-throughput: you sustain output continuously rather than in bursts (production, operations).

Whichever phrase you choose, the number sitting next to it does the convincing. “Deadline-driven newsroom” is a claim; “6 to 10 news pieces per week” is evidence.

Where to put working in a high stress environment on your resume

In your work experience section

Working in a high stress environment is a soft skill, which means it belongs primarily in the work experience section of your resume.

Make sure you include:

• What the context was (project, task, etc.)
• What you did
• What the outcome was

In your cover letter

If you get the sense that the ability to work in a fast paced environment is an essential part of the job, you can also address it in your cover letter.

Don’t: Come right out and say, “I thrive in a fast paced environment.” Not only is it a little too on the nose, it’s also fairly meaningless.

Do: Give concrete examples of when you’ve worked in a high stress environment in the past. Imagine you’re answering an interview question like “tell me about a time when you worked in a high stress environment.”

Not sure how to word your cover letter? Check out our sample cover letters for inspiration!

A good way to check if your resume highlights the essential skills for working in a fast-paced environment is to upload it to the tool below — it’ll scan it and let you know if you have highlighted important soft skills like multitasking, time management and the ability to work well under pressure.

Essential resume skills for working in an agile environment

Not sure what it means to be able to work in a fast paced environment? Here are some important skills you might need:

• Keeping track of multiple projects with different requirements and deadlines
• Managing a heavy workload
• Coping with last-minute changes or additions
• Having little to no downtime
• Dealing with a hectic or disorganized workplace
• Working well under pressure
• Multitasking
• Time management
• Self-motivation
• Organization

To know exactly what skills a hiring manager is looking for, you may need to read between the lines in the job posting. Is the environment fast paced because there’s a lot of work? Tight deadlines? Lots of overtime? If you can understand what the job requires, you can tailor your bullet point accomplishments to fit.

Working in a fast-paced environment: Resume examples

The ability to work in a fast paced environment can mean many things. Here are some of the most common — and how to address them in your resume.

Responding quickly to emergency situations

Attended emergency intervention and de-escalating processes training, resulting in a 76% increase in response time.

Sometimes, jobs are described as “high stress” because they really are — essential roles with high-stakes consequences. In this case, choose accomplishments that highlight your ability to respond quickly to unexpected situations and stay calm in an emergency.

Maintaining a continuously high level of productivity

Pitched and composed an average of 6 to 10 news pieces per week for Resume Worded, a regional newspaper encompassing several diverse communities.

Other jobs are described as “fast paced” because they literally never stop. If you’re fine with a seemingly never-ending workload, choose accomplishments that demonstrate a consistently high level of productivity over an extended period of time.

Using your time wisely

Prepared departmental meetings, video conferences, and presentations using effective strategies that decreased meeting times from 2 hours to 45 minutes.

Time is money, and that goes double for fast paced environments. If you figured out a way to automate functions, reduce unnecessary overhead, or save time on regular tasks, definitely include that in a bullet point.

Staying on top of a demanding workload

Supported 14 C-Level executives by managing their executive calendars, coordinating meetings, and conference calls for 18 months consecutively.

Are you applying for a job that has you juggling multiple — often conflicting — tasks and deadlines from different sources? Choose examples of answering to more than one person, coordinating between different departments, or doing multiple roles under one job heading.

In today’s global business environment, language skills can be an important asset for virtually any industry. This guide will help you determine when and how to list language skills on your resume, how to determine your language proficiency, and notable do's and don'ts.

How to list language skills on your resume

There are a few primary ways to list your language skills:

• In a general skills section
• In a dedicated languages section
• In an education or certificates section
• In a study abroad section
• In a resume summary
• In your bullet points

Not sure which option you should choose? Let's break down when — and how — to list language proficiency in each of those sections. But first, an example:

Include languages in a skills section

This is the best all-round option for listing language proficiency on your resume. Simply include the language in a skills bank with your other hard skills, as shown below.

If the job listing includes proficiency in the language as a requirement, then putting the language(s) at the top of your skills bank is a solid way to show your qualification.

Alternatively, if knowing the language isn’t required for the job, you can list it in an “Additional” section along with secondary skills.

When: If you want to list language skills without taking up a lot of space on your resume.

How: At the bottom of your resume, create a section titled "Skills," "Additional," or "Other" and list your hard skills — including language proficiency — underneath.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Languages: Fluent in French, English; Conversational Proficiency in Italian, German

More information: How to write a resume skills section

Including languages in a dedicated languages section

For most jobs, including a dedicated languages section is overkill. The exception to this is if specific languages are listed as a job requirement, or if they're obviously essential in other ways (like the job is located overseas or you'll be working with clients who primarily speak that language).

When: If language skills are essential to the role.

How: Near the bottom of your resume, create a section and title it "Languages" or "Language Proficiency." Underneath, list any languages you can speak in a business context and your level of proficiency.

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
English (Native)
Spanish (Fluent)
French (Conversational)

Including languages in an education or certifications section

If you've completed formal language qualifications, you can list these in your education section or in a separate certifications section. Here, you can list any diplomas or other qualifications, including foreign language proficiency tests.

If you studied languages at school, you can include any language degrees, majors or minors, or relevant coursework that might demonstrate your language skills.

When: If language proficiency is a must-have for the job and you want to highlight formal studies.

How: Create a section underneath your work experience titled "Certifications" or "Qualifications." List any formal language certifications, including the proficiency level you were assessed at.

CERTIFICATIONS
DELE Spanish Diploma Level B2, Instituto Cervantes
Japanese Language Proficiency Test, Level N3

More information: The right way to list certifications on a resume

Include languages under study abroad experience

If you’ve studied abroad, you can opt to include note this in your education section. This is one of the best way to show how you've used your language skills in a real-world setting and can emphasize genuine proficiency in an additional language.

When: If you studied abroad in a foreign-speaking country.

How: In your education section, list the university where you studied abroad and the length of your time there.

EDUCATION
University Name, Location, Graduation Date
Name of Degree and Major
- Completed one-year study abroad with Singapore University

More information: Turn study abroad into a job with these resume tips

Including languages in a resume summary

If you really want to highlight your language proficiency, you can put it front and center in your resume summary.

When: If you're multilingual or fluent in a language and it's an essential requirement of the job.

How: Underneath your contact details, write a short (3-5 sentence) summary of your key skills and experience, including language fluency.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE
Business Development Associate with five years of experience creating new networks and growing customer base. Bilingual Spanish speaker adept at implementing new, effective business practices and leading campaigns.

More information: 50+ resume summary examples

Including languages in your work experience

This approach is only recommended if language fluency is likely to be an important part of the job you're applying for. If you're applying for a role that includes interpreting, translating, or otherwise communicating regularly in another language, include accomplishments that show how you've used your language skills in a professional context.

When: If communicating in a foreign language is a regular part of the job.

How: In your work experience section, include bullet points that show how you've used your language proficiency in a business setting.

WORK EXPERIENCE
Resume Worded, San Diego, CA
Business Development Associate, January 2024 - Present

- Managed Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Yelp, Google, and Linkedin Social media accounts in two languages (English and Spanish), which boosted client base by 35%.
- Helped Firm Administrator plan and coordinate 10 firm social events in Southern California, including translators and multilingual speakers.
- Maintained and enhanced website auto-translate tool that increased function by 10% and customer interaction by 15%.
- Worked with product and tech teams to launch 10 new partnerships with international stakeholders.

More information: How to write resume bullets that get interviews

If you’re not sure if you’ve chosen the best option for including your language proficiency on your resume, upload it to the tool below — it’ll let you know if you have shown your language skills and your other skills the right way.

Language proficiency levels

How to list your level of language proficiency

There are a few different ways you can list your level of fluency in a language:

• Listing an informal proficiency level (e.g. basic, conversational, fluent).
• Including your stage of learning (e.g. beginner, intermediate, advanced).
• Using a formal language framework (e.g. the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or CEFR, which is commonly used and lists language proficiency on a scale from A1 to C2).
• Using LinkedIn-style labels (e.g. limited working proficiency, full professional proficiency), which mirror the US government’s ILR scale.

You can choose whichever format you prefer — just make sure you use the same wording consistently throughout your resume.

When to include 'Intermediate' proficiency level

Those who are in the process of learning the language but can also speak it reasonably well (such as by following a slow-moving conversation) are considered “Intermediate.” However, if your comfort level with the language does not pertain to a business environment (including sales jargon and techniques, for example), you may wish to leave it off.

When to include 'Conversational' proficiency level

At the “Conversational” level, you should be able to comfortably follow a conversation at a normal speaking pace. You may still need to look up some terms but will have a clear idea of what’s being said for the most part. If this describes your skill level, you should include it on your resume if it is relevant to the job.

When to include 'Fluent' proficiency level

Those who are “Fluent” can comfortably speak, read, and write with the language at any level, along with understanding colloquialisms and industry-specific jargon. Fluency means you are capable of translating from one language to the next.

When to include 'Native' proficiency level

The final category of proficiency is “Native,” which means you’ve used the language from birth. In multilingual households, this can include multiple languages.

How to assess language proficiency

You don't need to formally assess your level of language proficiency — but it can help, especially if it's a job requirement. If you have a formal certification, include it; otherwise, you can list a simple self-assessment. You can also access free versions of the CEFR and other language test online if you want to a better idea of your actual proficiency level.

When you should include language skills on your resume

It’s not always obvious when you should include your language skills, so let’s take a moment to break it down to instances that are definite contenders. Whether or not you should include language skills on your resume is dependent on the specific job you apply to.

If the job requires fluency in a second language

If the job listing itself mentions requiring fluency in another language, then you need to address your language proficiency somewhere on your resume, the same as any other job requirement.

If you're applying to multi-national companies

If the business or corporation that you’re applying to is multinational — meaning they have business operations in more than one country — then you may wish to include your language proficiency. This is particularly true if you'll be expected to travel abroad regularly or will be a point of contact for clients or colleagues who primarily speak another language.

If you're located in a multilingual area

If the company you’re applying to does significant business in a region with a high concentration of foreign language speakers (such as Quebec, Southern California, or urban melting pots such as New York City), you can include your language proficiency if it's relevant to that area.

As you are working on your resume, you might be wondering what skills you need to include in your skills section. An easy way to figure this out is to use the tool below — just search your job title and you’ll get a list of relevant skills.

What to keep in mind when listing language skills

Here are some essential resume do's and don'ts when it comes to including language proficiency.

DO: Address your language proficiency if it's listed as a requirement

If language proficiency is mentioned anywhere on the job description, make sure you list it on your resume. What if you don't speak the language? Address it upfront — list the level of proficiency you do have, or mention in your cover letter that you're currently acquiring it.

DON'T: List English language proficiency

In general, you don't have to list your English proficiency on your resume if you're applying to jobs in the US or English-speaking countries where it's the norm. Being fluent in English is generally implied by your application and including it could be a minor red flag for some recruiters.

DO: Stick to languages you're comfortable using in a business setting

If you don’t speak the language comfortably in a business setting, then you should leave it off. As an example, you may speak casual German due to attending Oktoberfest a number of times, but being limited to knowing how to order sausage and beer won’t help you when it comes to explaining sales figures to a German client.

DON'T: Include language proficiency on your resume if it doesn't strengthen your candidacy

A general rule to keep in mind is that listing language proficiencies is completely optional. If including your language skills isn’t likely to increase the likelihood of being hired, it’s best to leave them off.

DO: Include your proficiency level (especially if you aren't fluent)

If you don't specify what your proficiency level is when you list a language, the hiring manager will assume that you are fluent in it. If this is not the case, include your level of proficiency with each language you’re listing.  

If your understanding of the language is “Basic” only, you may wish to consider leaving the skill off entirely unless it is a specific requirement for the job, you’ve attained a rudimentary knowledge of it, and you are actively learning the language.

DON'T: Inflate your proficiency level on your resume

Along the same lines, don’t inflate your proficiency level. For one thing, you can easily be caught if the hiring manager is themselves fluent in the language and you are attempting to claim that you are. Additionally, keep in mind that it takes time and considerable effort to learn a language for most people, so you shouldn’t expect that you can become fluent rapidly if you are required to.

DO: List languages in a simple text format

No matter what level of proficiency you have, you should list it simply in text format as shown below.

Or in text format, here it is:

• Languages: Spanish (native), Chinese (intermediate)

DON'T: Use fancy graphics

Graphics like the one below are unnecessary in that they don’t add to the understanding of the recruiter, and they take up valuable resume space. Plus, they aren't readable by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

DO: Get a second opinion

In general, don’t submit your resume without proofreading it or running it through a spell checker and grammar checker to ensure you haven’t made any linguistic errors. If you want to do so while getting some pointers on the overall impact of your resume, you can use our free-to-try AI-powered tool, Score My Resume.

If you work in a writing or research-heavy field, you’re undoubtedly familiar with “publish or perish.” Publications can help establish credibility, demonstrate expertise in your field, and show your research skills firsthand. But once you’ve done that, what comes next?

If you’re looking for a new job — or even considering one — the answer is, “add those publications to your resume or CV.” In this article, we’ll cover exactly how to do that, including:

• Where to put publications on your resume
• What publications to include
• The correct citation format to use
• Tips for highlighting specific contributions and accomplishments
• Common mistakes to avoid
• The difference between a resume and CV (and how to list publications on each)

How to list publications on a resume

1. Choose where to list your publications. Depending on how many publications you want to list, publications  should be listed either in a dedicated Publications section or in a subheading within your Education section.
2. Choose a format (more on this below) and use it consistently. Don’t switch between citation formats, even if they’re both correct. Consistency in citation format makes it easier for employers to read and compare publications and shows attention to detail and professionalism.
3. List your publications in reverse-chronological order, with the most recent at the top.
4. Cite the names of any authors in the order listed on the publication.
5. Enter the name of the article, chapter, or book.
6. Include the name of the journal, website, or conference where it was published.
7. Add the date of publication.

How to list publications on a CV

1. Create a section toward the end of your CV (after your education and professional accomplishments).
2. Give it a clear heading like “Publications.”
3. Choose a citation style and use it consistently — generally either MLA or APA. List any relevant publications in reverse-chronological order, with your most recent publication at the top.
4. Omit any publications that aren’t relevant (i.e. publications that are unrelated to the position you’re applying for or that have since become obsolete).

Examples of how to put publications on a resume

In your Education section

Your Education section is the best place to list publications if:

• You’re running low on space
• You only want to list one or two significant publications
• Your Education section is at the top of your resume (this is usually the case if you’re a current student, recent graduate, or career changer)

Here’s what it should look like:

In your Publications section

You should list publications in a dedicated Publications section if:

• You’re applying for a job where publications are expected and you want to make sure they stand out
• You’re using a CV instead of a resume
• You’re listing multiple publications

Here’s what it should look like:

If you’re not sure if you’ve listed your publications correctly on your resume or CV, upload it to the tool below — it will provide feedback on whether you have chosen the appropriate section and format for presenting your publications.

The correct citation format for publications on a resume or CV

You should list publications on a resume or CV in either MLA or APA style.

• If the job description or application instructions specify a preference for a specific citation style, use that.
• If no preference is specified, either style is acceptable.
• Only use one style or the other. Never use a mix of both.

MLA format

If you choose to use MLA style, use the following format:

[Last name], [First name] and [First name] [Last name]. "[Article title]." [Journal name], [Volume number], [Issue number], [Year], [Pages]

For example:

APA format

If you choose to use APA style, use the following format:

[Last name], [First initial]. ([Year]). [Article title]. [Journal name], [Volume number] ([Issue number]), [Pages].

For example:

Tips for adding publications to a resume or CV

Which publications should you include on a resume or CV?

The short answer is: Anything you’ve published that’s relevant to the job you’re applying for.

The long answer is that resume-worthy publications can include:

• Any work you’ve published or are about to publish
• Peer-reviewed publications
• Academic books or book chapters
• Research papers
• Scholarly articles
• Conference papers
• Trade presentations
• Publications in an industry journal
• Newspaper or magazine articles
• Online publications

How to highlight your contributions

Don’t just expect your publications to speak for themselves. Actively highlight your contributions by:

• Indicating your role in the project
• Emphasizing your authorship position, e.g. creating a separate section for first author publications or bolding your name in the author list
• Including related accomplishments in your Work Experience section
• Listing any awards or honors related to your publications
• Including talks, presentations, or media coverage

Common mistakes to avoid

DON’T include publications that aren’t directly relevant, especially if you’re applying for jobs outside academia.

DON’T forget to update your Publications section when you update your resume or CV. Check your citation metrics, add new publications, and remove old ones as they become outdated.

DON’T underestimate the value of collaborative projects. Even if your name is further down the list of authors, you can still list it (especially on an academic CV) along with accomplishments relating to that project.

DON’T skip the ethical considerations. Make sure you properly credit all authors (including sticking to the official order of authorship), avoid plagiarism, and adhere to the policies of the journal or publisher.

Frequently asked questions

Where should publications go on a resume?

If you only have one or two publications, list them under your Education section. If you have several, or if publications are expected for the role, give them a dedicated Publications section. On a CV, that section goes toward the end, after your education and professional accomplishments.

How do you list publications that haven’t been published yet?

If an article has been accepted but hasn’t appeared yet, include it in your Publications section with “(in press)” or “(forthcoming)” in place of the year. Work you’ve submitted that hasn’t been accepted belongs under a separate heading like “Manuscripts under review,” never mixed in with confirmed publications.

How many publications should you list?

On a resume, one to three of your most relevant publications is plenty. On an academic CV, list every publication relevant to the role, in reverse-chronological order, and trim anything that has become obsolete or has nothing to do with the job.

Let's cut straight to the chase: the key to effectively listing certifications is clarity and relevance. In 2026, with the job market increasingly competitive and digital certifications are on the rise, it's more important than ever to highlight your qualifications in a way that stands out to employers. This means not only listing your certifications but doing so in a manner that aligns with current industry standards and expectations.

Good certifications are worth more than the paper they’re written on. Some are actually required before you can even apply for a job, while others are simply concrete proof of your skills. Either way, the right qualification can make or break a resume.

In this article, we'll guide you through the essentials of showcasing your certifications. We'll discuss why certifications are more relevant than ever in today's job market, the best ways to format and position them on your resume, and how to determine which certifications will make your application shine. Whether you're a seasoned professional or stepping into the job market for the first time, this guide will help ensure your resume's certification section is both impressive and effective.

When to include certifications on your resume (and when not to)

You should list certifications on your resume if:

• It’s a job requirement: Some jobs will ask for specific licenses and certifications — sometimes, these are even legal requirements. If a job posting mentions a certification as a minimum requirement, you’re unlikely to even be considered unless you include it on your resume. If it’s in the “nice to have” section, it may not be as necessary, but listing it will still give you an advantage.
• It gets you past ATS: If a certification is mentioned in the job description, chances are either a recruiter or an applicant tracking system (ATS) will be screening out resumes that don’t mention it. Clearly listing certifications on your resume will prevent you from getting rejected automatically.
• It establishes credibility: Even in jobs where a certification isn’t strictly required, it can be a good way to demonstrate your skills. The more well-known or established the accreditation is, the more true this is. If you’re working or moving into a field with an industry standard certification, it might be well worth pursuing.
• You're changing careers: If you lack industry-specific experience, completing a short course or certification shows that you’re committed to changing directions (not just resume spamming) and shows that you have the technical skills needed for the job.

You should leave certifications off your resume if:

• It's not relevant to the job: Like anything on your resume, certifications should only be included if they’re actually relevant. You may have studied for ages for that nursing certification, but if you’re applying for a job in human resources, leave it off!
• It's a very short course: Unless they’re essential or deeply relevant, Coursera or similar courses that only take a few hours or days to complete aren’t usually significant enough to belong on your resume. The same goes for most short-form professional development courses, unless it's deeply relevant to the job you're applying for.
• The certification has expired: In the case of certifications that are only valid for a certain period (for example, CPR or First Aid certificates), don't list these on your resume if they're past the point of expiry — but do renew the certification if it's necessary for the job.

Got a certification that definitely belongs on your resume? Scroll down for a detailed guide to listing certifications on a resume.

Why certifications are relevant in 2026

In an era where remote work opportunities continue to rise, and digital skills are highly valued, enhancing your resume and staying up-to-date with relevant skills has become crucial. The right set of qualifications and competitive hard skills can significantly boost your resume by demonstrating adaptability, technical proficiency, and a commitment to staying current in a digitally-driven world.

There is hard data behind this. In the Bureau of Labor Statistics' usual weekly earnings figures (2024 annual averages, the most recent published), full-time workers who held a certification or license earned a median of $1,531 a week, against $1,081 for workers with neither. That is a gap of roughly $23,000 a year, and the clearest argument for making your certifications easy to find.

Online certifications are far more common now than ever before, offering flexibility and accessibility in acquiring new skills. But, not all certificates are created equal. As there are now so many online courses available, choosing the right certificates from a recognized institution is crucial. Employers are far more open to accepting online certifications as proof of your skills. Still, you need to ensure you choose certifications that are recognized and respected in your desired industry.

How to list certifications on your resume

First things first: Here's how to list any certification on your resume.

1. List the name of the certificate or qualification.
2. Include the name of the certifying agency or where you obtained it. This is important for credibility, as it allows employers to verify the authenticity of your qualifications and assess their relevance.
3. List the date you achieved the certification.
4. Include a location (if applicable).
5. Specify if the certification is still in progress. It's fine to list an in-progress qualification, as long as you add "in progress" or "expected [date]."
6. If the certification has an expiration date, make sure you include the dates of validity.
7. Use an ATS resume scanner to suggest industry-specific skills and keywords.
8. Regularly update your resume to remove or update expired certifications.

How to format certifications on your resume

Use bold or italics for the certification name to draw attention to it, especially if it's a crucial qualification for the job you're applying for. The key is to enhance readability and highlight your qualifications without overwhelming the rest of your resume. For example:

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification - Atlas Institute, May 2025.

This technique helps your most essential certificates catch a recruiter's eye while keeping your resume professional-looking and easy to scan. If you’d rather not fuss over the formatting, the certifications section generator drafts the whole section from your certification names and dates.

Where to list certifications on your resume

Here's a guide to the best places to list certifications on your resume:

In the education section of your resume

The education section of your resume is probably the most intuitive spot to include certifications, especially if they’re particularly significant. List your entries in reverse chronological order, with the most recent qualifications first. If you’re changing careers and don’t have any other relevant experience, you may even want to include your education section at the top of your resume. For example:

Under a section titled ‘Other’ or ‘Additional Information’

List a certifications in an additional section if you have more relevant work experience to emphasize first or you're running out of space on your resume. If you choose to include more than one or two certifications, list them on their own line alongside things like technical skills, awards, and language fluency.

Here's an example of combining your certifications with other skill sets.

Including a subheading makes it easy for a hiring manager to find your relevant certifications.

Here's another simple example of listing a certification, which mentioning who awarded it. Use this only if your certification is not widely known and the context of your certification could help.

In a ‘Certifications’ section

As a rule, you shouldn’t dedicate too much space on your resume to listing certifications — one of two lines should generally be enough. But if you have several certifications and they’re all relevant to the specific job you’re applying for, you can create a dedicated certifications section to avoid cluttering up your resume. For example:

Creating a separate section to avoid clutter is a good idea if you’re listing more than one or two certifications.

In your resume summary or header

If you want to emphasize an essential and/or particularly well-known qualification (including professional licences), include this information in your summary or header. This isn’t the case for most certifications, so first make sure that it’s actually a crucial job requirement and that it’s a well-known and easily recognizable acronym, like PMP or HIPAA. For example:

If your certification is part of the job title you are applying to, you can consider including it directly in your header. Here's an example of a Certified Nursing Assistant's resume:

For roles like nursing where specific certifications are essential, it can be helpful to list your qualifications in your resume header.

In a projects section

If your certification included significant project experience, consider listing it in a dedicated projects section. This can be especially helpful if you’re changing careers and don’t have a lot of relevant work experience, as projects can help bridge the gap and include hands-on experience. Remember to list projects the same way you would any other experience, starting with an action verb and using numbers and metrics where possible. For example:

If you’re not sure if you’ve listed your certifications the right way, upload your resume to the tool below — it’ll scan your resume and give you detailed feedback and suggestions on how to improve your resume sections. It is also a good way to check if your resume is readable by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Use an acronym after your name

Maximize the impact of your prestigious certifications by using acronyms after your name. This immediately signals your qualifications to potential employers.

For instance, if you're a Project Management Professional, include 'John Doe, PMP' at the top of your resume. This tactic is particularly effective for certifications that are well-recognized in your industry.

Why you should consider adding certifications to your resume

Adding certifications can significantly enhance your resume by showcasing your commitment to professional development and proficiency in new skills. The right new skills can open doors to new career opportunities, potentially leading to higher salaries and advancement in your field.

In rapidly changing industries, certifications also ensure that your skills and knowledge remain up-to-date and you remain a competitive candidate for potential promotion. In the long run, certifications not only help with immediate job placement and salary benefits, but also help with long-term career satisfaction and growth.

How to determine what certifications are relevant for your resume

As with most skills on your resume, the best way to determine what skills are relevant for a position, is to look at the job description itself. See what skills are mentioned in the job description, and if you have any of the qualifications mentioned, list them clearly and prominently. Our comprehensive database of skills and keywords allows you to search for a specific job and instantly find the skills to add to your resume, including common certifications.

The next best thing is to network! The most reliable source of information is usually other people working in the industry. If you’re new to the field or changing careers, this step is extra important — our tips on how to ask for an informational interview will help you get started.

Another way to find skills and keywords for your resume is by using the tool below to search for the job you’re applying for. It’ll give you a list of relevant skills and keywords.

Recommended certifications by industry

Depending on your industry, there may be a set of common (or sometimes essential) certifications it would be helpful to pursue.

• Project Managers: Certifications include Project Management Professional (PMP), Prince2, and Lean Six Sigma.
• Human Resources: Jobs may require Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification.
• Information Technology and Engineering: Some of the best are AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), CompTIA A+, Cisco, Google Cloud, and Microsoft certifications.
• Product owners and Developers: Agile and Scrum certifications.
• Accountant: Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification.
• Programmers: Oracle Java, Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), and EC-Council Certified Secure Programmer (ECSP) certifications — but when it comes to most programming languages, a good GitHub profile is far more valuable than specific certifications.
• Nurses and other Healthcare professionals: Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification.
• Business Professionals: Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) or APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) qualification.

If you’re an engineer who has passed the FE exam, see our guide to listing EIT certification on your resume — it covers where the credential goes and how to handle a pending certification number.

How to ensure and show your certification is legitimate

Choose certificates that are from accredited and recognized institutions and well-known organizations. This is particularly crucial with the rise of online courses, where the quality and recognition of qualifications can vary. Mentioning the certifying body on your resume can help establish the legitimacy of your qualifications in the eyes of an employer, and be prepared to provide proof of your certifications if requested, which could include the certificate itself, a transcript, or a link to a verification page.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I have multiple certificates, how do I decide which to include?

Only include certificates and qualifications that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Avoid listing certifications unrelated to the position, as they may distract from your relevant qualifications. If you have multiple certifications that demonstrate the same skills, include only your most recent, the most highly recognized, or those that showcase the highest level skills.

Do I need to list the certifying body or institution that granted my certificate?

Yes. Always mention the name of the institution or organization that granted your certificate. Certifications from renowned and accredited bodies are often viewed more favorably. Omitting this information might raise questions about the legitimacy or significance of your certification.

Should I include the grade of my certificate?

Generally, most certifications are pass/fail, and the grade you achieved is not necessary. The focus should be on the certification itself and its relevance to the job. However, it could be worth mentioning if you achieved an exceptionally high grade or honor (such as graduating top of your class).

How often should I update the certifications on my resume?

You should regularly update your resume to reflect any new certifications. Keeping your resume current ensures potential employers see the most accurate representation of your skills. It's especially important to update certifications that have expiration dates or require renewal.

What is the difference between licenses and certifications on a resume?

A license typically refers to a legal permission to practice a certain profession or activity, and is often mandatory for certain jobs. A certificate usually indicates completion of a course to acquire certain skills or knowledge and is not generally required for a position.

Should I create a separate resume certification section?

Yes, especially if you have multiple relevant certifications. This makes your resume more organized and helps in drawing attention to your key qualifications.

Should I include online course certifications?

Yes, but be selective. Include online certifications that are relevant to the job and from reputable providers. They can demonstrate continual learning and skill development.

What are the risks of including expired or irrelevant certifications?

Listing expired certifications can reflect poorly on your professional image, suggesting outdated skills. Irrelevant certifications may distract from your pertinent skills and experience. Only include certifications that are current and relevant to the job.

How do I list a certification in progress on my resume?

List it the same way you would a completed certification, then add "In progress" or an expected completion date in parentheses, for example: "PMP Certification (Expected September 2026), Project Management Institute." Never imply an unfinished certification is complete. Many employers verify credentials with the issuing body, and a mismatch is an easy reason to drop a candidate.

Whether you’re creating your first ever resume or updating it for the fiftieth time, it’s important to get the basics right. Things like font choice, margin size, and line spacing might not seem like make-or-break resume elements, but presentation and readability are, which means these small things can actually make a big difference.

Luckily, the standard practices for most of these are to stick to the default settings — which, in the case of line spacing, means that 1.0 line spacing is usually the best option. To learn more about why — and when it’s okay to deviate — keep reading.

Why line spacing matters

Line spacing on its own doesn’t matter — which is to say, nobody’s going to reject you solely because you used 1.15 line spacing instead of 1.0.

What matters is the overall appearance of your resume. Choosing the right line spacing makes your resume look attractive, organized, and easy to skim. Most importantly, it avoids calling attention to itself, which is why sticking to standard conventions for resume presentation is usually the right call.

If you’re not sure if you’ve chosen the right line spacing for your resume, upload it to the tool below — it’ll let you know if your resume is formatted correctly.

How your font influences line spacing

Line spacing doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Your font choice and size also matter — different font choices will impact the way your line spacing appears. Here’s how to navigate this for different kinds of fonts.

Modern fonts

Clean, modern fonts like Arial or Calibri are usually designed with both paper and computer screens in mind, which means they tend to be well-spaced and easier to read. Stick to the standard 1.0 line spacing to maintain their sleek, professional look.

Dense fonts

More old-fashioned fonts like Garamond or Times New Roman are still classic choices for resumes, but they also tend to be denser and more compact. This means they can be a little harder to read, which makes 1.15 line spacing a better option.

Larger font sizes

If you’re using a larger font size for better readability (above 12 point), stick to 1.0 line spacing. Larger fonts naturally create more white space, which means you don’t need to add extra line spacing.

Creative fonts

If you’ve opted for a more unique font, it’s important to make sure your line spacing complements your font choice. This means you may need to play around with different line spacing to find the best look — the goal is to balance high readability with aesthetic appeal.

Should a resume be double spaced?

Double spacing isn’t recommended for resumes. In general, anything over 1.15 spacing only wastes valuable resume space. It also tends to look like you’re trying to hide a lack of content, which is an instant red flag. Instead of increasing your line spacing or resume margins, follow our tips on how to write a resume with limited work experience, like adding relevant certifications, projects, or volunteer activities.

How line spacing interacts with ATS

It isn’t just recruiters or hiring managers who will see your resume — before that, there’s a decent chance it will have to go through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). ATS are used by most companies to help streamline the hiring process, which makes it crucial to understand a little about how they work. Here’s what you need to know:

• Standard line spacing (1.0 to 1.15) is generally ATS-friendly. These systems are designed to parse most types of standard formatting, which is another reason to stick to the default options for line spacing, font choice, and margin size.
• Overly small (below 1.0) or large (above 1.15) line spacing may confuse ATS and lead to parsing errors. Stick to the standard range for best results.
• Using consistent line spacing throughout your resume helps ATS distinguish between different resume sections. Try not to change it too much, since there’s no guarantee it will look the same in every software program.
• It’s okay to change your line spacing for important elements, like section headings. Using slightly larger line spacing or a blank line before different resume sections can help define the beginning and end of sections for ATS.
• If you want other important information (like your contact information or job title) to stand out, opt for bold, italics, or capital letters instead of increasing your line spacing.
• To ensure your resume is ATS-compatible, try running it through a free resume checker first. These use ATS software to scan your resume and provide feedback, so if they can read it okay, it’s probably good to go.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best line spacing for a resume?

1.0 line spacing is the best default for a resume, moving up to 1.15 if you use a dense font like Garamond or Times New Roman. Anything above 1.15 wastes space, and double spacing makes it look like you are padding thin content.

What spacing should a resume have?

Use 1.0 to 1.15 line spacing for body text, a blank line or slightly larger spacing before each section heading, and consistent settings throughout the document. That range reads cleanly on screen and parses reliably in applicant tracking systems.

Is 1.15 line spacing OK for a resume?

Yes. 1.15 sits inside the standard range and is the better choice for dense serif fonts, which can look cramped at 1.0. For modern fonts like Arial or Calibri, 1.0 usually looks cleaner.

You’re fresh out of school, armed with years’ worth of knowledge and the most up-to-date skills. But should you include specifics about your coursework on your resume?

If you graduated recently, are changing careers, or simply lack a lot of relevant work experience in the field you’re aiming for, the answer is probably yes. Keep reading as we cover exactly how to do that, including real examples and tips on where it belongs and how to match it to the job you want.

Let’s start with a brief rundown of when relevant coursework belongs on your resume — and when it doesn’t.

When (and when not) to include relevant coursework on your resume

Relevant coursework doesn’t belong on every resume. For most job seekers, it’s completely optional (and probably unnecessary if you have any actual work experience in a similar role or industry).

You can consider using coursework to highlight relevant skills and industry knowledge, especially if:

• You graduated recently (or are about to). As a recent graduate, your most relevant “experience” is likely to be your education, so it’s okay to focus on that.
• You’re changing careers. This is doubly true if you went back to school or completed a short course to retrain.
• You have limited experience and/or are applying for entry-level positions. Without a lot of experience in the field, it makes sense to focus on what you do have — things like relevant coursework, community involvement, or extracurricular activities.

Decided that listing relevant coursework on your resume is the right step for you? Here’s how to do it.

How to include relevant coursework on a resume

1. Create an Education section on your resume. For recent graduates, this can go at the top of your resume, above your Work Experience section.
2. List the name of the school, the degree you studied, and your graduation date (optional).
3. Underneath, create a subheading titled “Relevant Coursework.”
4. List a small number of courses (no more than 3-4) that are directly relevant to the job you’re applying for. That’s enough if you want to keep your education section brief, but if you choose to expand it, you can also:
5. Include a single bullet point for each course that highlights a key accomplishment. Start each bullet point with an action verb so it more closely resembles your other resume bullets.
6. Focus on how the course prepared you for the kind of job you aim to be doing — for example, if you’re applying for roles in marketing, focus on things like conducting market research surveys or implementing social media campaigns.
7. Use our free resume scanner for more tips on how to perfect your resume bullet points and Education section.

Examples of listing relevant coursework on a resume

Here are some examples of including relevant coursework in a few common areas of study. Feel free to copy and paste or customize these to fit your own experience.

Finance coursework on a resume

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
XYZ University, Graduated May 2026
Relevant Coursework:
Corporate Finance: Analyzed financial statements and conducted valuation analysis to assess the financial health of a company.
Investment Analysis: Evaluated investment opportunities and presented recommendations to a panel of industry professionals.
Financial Modeling: Created complex financial models to forecast revenue and expense projections.

Marketing coursework on a resume

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Marketing
ABC College, Graduated June 2025
Relevant Coursework:
Digital Marketing: Created and implemented a social media campaign for a local business, resulting in a 30% increase in website traffic.
Market Research: Conducted focus groups and surveys to gather insights on consumer preferences and behavior.
Brand Management: Developed a brand identity and positioning strategy for a new product line.

Technology coursework on a resume

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
DEF University, Graduated December 2025
Relevant Coursework:
Database Systems: Designed and implemented a database management system for a student organization to track membership and event attendance.
Web Development: Built a responsive website using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for a local business, resulting in a 50% increase in online sales.
Operating Systems: Worked on a team to develop a custom operating system using C++, implementing process scheduling and memory management algorithms.

How to determine which coursework to include

The number one rule of writing a resume is that everything on it needs to be relevant to the specific job you’re applying for — even your education. Anything that isn’t relevant should be a) kept as brief as possible or b) left off altogether.

That means you should only list coursework that more or less matches the kinds of tasks you’ll be doing in your new job. Sometimes this is obvious — for example, if the job ad asks for experience with specific tools, software or programming languages, it makes sense to include any coursework you completed on those topics

Here’s an example:

Job Description: "Experience with programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++."
Relevant Coursework: Introduction to Python, Object-Oriented Programming (Java), Data Structures and Algorithms (C++)

Other times, you’ll need to read between the lines a little — which can help demonstrate that you understand the basic requirements of the job. For example:

Job Description: "Experience with digital marketing tools and analytics software."
Relevant Coursework: Digital Marketing, Marketing Analytics, Web Analytics

Here’s another example:

Job Description: "Strong knowledge of financial accounting principles."
Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Corporate Finance

I’d recommend using the tool below to get a list of skills and keywords relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Where to put relevant coursework on a resume

There are a few places where it makes sense to list relevant coursework on your resume. This could be in your:

• Education section. This is the most obvious place to list coursework, so it should always go here first.
• Skills section. If your coursework involved a specific hard skill, you can also list it in your skills section — for example, listing an “Adobe Photoshop Fundamentals” course under a subheading like “Software” or “Graphic Design.”
• Certifications or Licenses section. If you completed a course that led to a specific certification — especially if it’s one that’s well known or highly regarded in your industry — you can highlight that by listing the course separately in a dedicated section.

Key takeaways

Listing relevant coursework on your resume is optional. It’s generally a good fit for recent graduates and career changers, but not for more experienced job seekers.

• Alongside relevant coursework, you may also want to highlight educational accomplishments like GPA, honors, awards, study abroad, educational projects, and extracurricular activities. Check out our complete guide on how to list education on your resume for more tips and examples.
• Make sure you’re tailoring your resume for each position you apply to and reviewing it regularly to remove sections (like relevant coursework) that no longer belong.

Frequently asked questions

What counts as relevant coursework?

Courses that taught skills the job actually uses, judged against the job description rather than your transcript. A course counts if you can tie it to a listed requirement, for example Marketing Analytics for a posting that asks for experience with analytics software. Everything else stays off, no matter how well you did in it.

How many relevant courses should you list on a resume?

Three or four per entry is the sweet spot; more starts to look like filler. Pick the courses whose names map most directly to the skills in the job description. And once you have around two years of relevant work experience, remove the coursework section entirely and let your jobs do the talking.

Basic Microsoft Office skills don’t belong on your resume. The key word here is basic. More advanced or job-specific skills, on the other hand, are fair game. But what skills are considered basic in 2026? How do you accurately assess your own skill level? And how do you prove that your skills are genuinely a cut above the rest?

We’ll answer all those questions in a moment, but first: Here’s how to tell if you actually need to put Microsoft Office skills on your resume in the first place.

Do you need Microsoft Office skills on your resume?

Let’s take a look at some industries where Microsoft Office skills are essential (and what skills in particular you should highlight on your resume).

Administrative and secretarial roles

If you’re applying for an administrative role, you should definitely list Microsoft Office on your resume. In particular, you’ll need:

• Word for creating and editing documents
• Excel for basic data management
• Outlook for handling professional correspondence

Data-driven roles

Any job that works with a lot of data is going to require proficiency with Microsoft Office — Excel in particular. Try to highlight more advanced skills like:

• Pivot tables
• VLOOKUP
• Macros
• Complex formulas

Marketing and sales roles

For marketing and sales professionals, Microsoft Office may not be a huge part of your day-to-day, but you’ll still need PowerPoint presentation skills and the ability to create pitch decks.

On the other hand, there are some situations where it’s less cut and dried:

• Creative or technical roles often require their own specialized software, so prioritize those over general Microsoft Office skills.
• Recent graduates may see Microsoft Office skills as a good way to pad out a resume, but this is more likely to call attention to your lack of experience, unless they’re actually relevant to the role.
• Career changers should focus on transferable skills, but this doesn’t mean they need to be generic. Unless Microsoft Office skills are specifically mentioned in the job post, highlighting your soft skills is the better way to go here.

Now that you have a better understanding of whether to list Microsoft Office skills on your resume — here’s how.

How (and where) to put Microsoft Office skills on a resume

Like most things you want to highlight on your resume, Microsoft Suite proficiency doesn’t just belong in one place. You should aim to highlight it throughout your:

• Skills section
• Work Experience section
• Resume summary

Let’s dive into a little more detail on each of these options.

One naming note, since the ground shifted recently: in January 2025 Microsoft renamed its hub app from Microsoft 365 to Microsoft 365 Copilot, and Microsoft has stated that the Office applications themselves keep their names, so Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook are unchanged. On a resume, "Microsoft Office" and "Microsoft 365" both still read fine in 2026. What matters is naming the specific application and what you did with it, because "Excel" is the word recruiters and ATS software actually search for.

Listing Microsoft Suite in your Skills section

This is the most obvious place for Microsoft Office skills to go, so it should still be your first stop. Settle on a handful of Microsoft Suite skills to list here — ideally, ones that are listed in the job ad or that you know to be essential to the role.

For example:

SKILLS
Microsoft Office Suite: Data Analysis with Excel, Mail Merge in Word, PowerPoint Presentations

Including Microsoft Office-based work experience

What’s even better than listing your skills outright? Showing them in action. If using Microsoft Office software is a major part of the position you’re applying for, you should also aim to include one or two related accomplishments in your Work Experience section.

For example:

• Used MS Word to draft and edit memos, correspondence, and reports, improving office efficiency by 20%.
• Leveraged advanced Excel features to maintain and analyze budget data, contributing to a 15% decrease in monthly expenses.

Highlighting key Office skills in a summary

In roles that require a high level of proficiency with Microsoft Office, it can also pay to highlight these skills upfront in a resume summary.

For example:

Detail-oriented Project Manager with 5 years of experience and strong expertise in utilizing Microsoft Project and PowerPoint for managing and presenting complex projects.

A helpful approach to determine if you have selected the appropriate section of your resume to highlight your specific Microsoft Office skills is by uploading your resume to the tool below – It will assess whether you have effectively showcased your Microsoft skills and provide insights on which of these skills should be included on your resume.

How to assess your proficiency levels

If you’re not quite sure how your own skills match up to the job you want, here’s a quick guide to deciphering skill levels in a job description.

• Beginner: You’re familiar with basic functions in core Microsoft Suite products, e.g. formatting text in Word, basic data entry in Excel.
• Intermediate: You’re comfortable with more complex tasks and can figure things out on your own, e.g., Mail Merge in Word, basic formulas in Excel.
• Advanced: You’re able to use advanced features effectively and can potentially train others to use them, e.g. Track Changes and Comments in Word, Pivot tables and complex formulas in Excel.

Now, let’s take a look at individual Microsoft Suite tools and what skills hiring managers really want to see on your resume.

Specific Microsoft Office skills for your resume

Microsoft Excel

Excel isn’t just about data entry. If you aren’t familiar with pivot tables, VLOOKUP, complex formulas, and macros, you may not have the level of skill employers want to see when they ask for proficiency in Microsoft Excel. But if you do, you should be as specific as possible about what skills you have and how you’ve used them. For example:

In a resume summary: “Advanced Excel user with expertise in pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and creation of macros for efficient data processing.”

In your Work Experience bullet points: “Leveraged Excel's data analysis capabilities to identify cost-saving opportunities, resulting in a 20% reduction in departmental expenses.”

In an Additional section: List Excel certifications, e.g. “Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Associate” or “Excel Expert.”

Microsoft Word

Unless you’re a true expert in Word, it probably isn’t worth listing on your resume — basic proficiency is expected in just about any professional role.

So, when should you include it? If you've used advanced features (like creating an automated Table of Contents, Mail Merge, or advanced formatting) and you’re in a role where these skills are essential.

Microsoft Outlook

If your Outlook skills are limited to sending and receiving email, it doesn’t belong on your resume. On the other hand, if you’re familiar with its more advanced features, it’s definitely okay to include accomplishments that say so. For example:

Effectively managed executive's complex calendar using Outlook, coordinating over 30 appointments weekly while minimizing conflicts.

Implemented new email categorization system in Outlook, improving response times by 25%.

Microsoft Access

When does MS Access belong on a resume? If you're applying for a role in data analysis or database management, include it. Otherwise, leave it off.

Again, don’t just list “Proficient in MS Access.” Instead, illustrate it with accomplishments like:

Utilized MS Access to design and manage intricate databases, enhancing data retrieval efficiency by 30%.

Other Microsoft Office tools

While other Microsoft Suite tools like OneNote, Teams, and Publisher may seem like attractive resume boosters, more skills don’t always make your resume more appealing. Like with any other skill, your rule of thumb should be: If it’s not in the job description, it doesn’t need to be on your resume.

Common mistakes to avoid

Now that you have a good understanding of what to do — here’s what you should avoid.

Overgeneralization

DON’T: List skills like “Proficient in Microsoft Office.” This is too vague and doesn’t say anything about what you can actually do.

DO: Be specific about the tools you’ve used and what you achieved with them.

EXAMPLE:

Used advanced Excel functions to develop comprehensive sales reports, driving a 15% increase in quarterly revenue.

Including basic skills

DON’T: Include basic skills like “Microsoft Word.” Hiring managers already expect this, so listing it just makes you appear out of touch.

DO: Skip mentioning basic Word processing skills — unless you can tie them to a tangible accomplishment.

EXAMPLE:

Implemented template standardization in MS Word, improving document consistency across the team.

Listing irrelevant skills

DON’T: List every single Microsoft Office product you’re familiar with.

DO: Only list skills that align with the job description.

EXAMPLE: If you’re applying for a Data Analyst position, Excel is a must-have — but Publisher isn’t, even if you’re really good at it.

Instead of listing every single Microsoft Office product you’re familiar with, list hard skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Use the tool below to find the right ones.

Exaggerating your skills

DON’T: Claim to have a skill that you don’t have and can't quickly learn — this is going to backfire on you as soon as you’re asked to use it.

DO: Realize that the skills listed in the job ad are a wish list. As long as you can do the job, you don’t need to have every single skill on the list.

The education section is an easily overlooked part of any resume — which doesn’t mean it should be an afterthought. If you’re a current student or recent graduate, or if you’re applying to jobs that require a specific degree, you’ll know you need to put some thought into it, but the same is true even if you’ve been in the workforce for a while.

Here are some of our best tips for how to structure it, including where to put your resume education section and how to make the most impact without letting it take over more space than it needs.

Where to put your education on your resume

Where to put the education section of your resume mostly depends on how recently you graduated:

• If you've been out of school for a few years and have some relevant work experience, include your education section underneath your professional experience.
• If you graduated recently and your education is your most relevant experience, put your education section at the top of your resume.

We'll go into more detail on the why's and how's of listing your education vs work experience first on your resume later in the article. First, here's a quick guide on how to write a resume education section.

How to format a resume education section

1. Create a separate section and title it "Education."
2. List the name of the school and the degree you studied.
3. List your graduation date. This is optional, especially if you graduated more than 10 years ago.
4. List any major awards or honors, including cum laude or dean's list.
5. If you're a current student or recent graduate, you can consider including extra details like GPA or relevant coursework (see below for more details).
6. If you have multiple degrees, list them in reverse chronological order, with your most recent degree first.

Resume education section template

Here are a couple of different templates you can use, depending on how much experience you have.

Education section for mid-level hires

Here's an example of a brief education section, suitable for experienced hires.

Use this template to copy this format:

EDUCATION
Name of college or university, location
Date of graduation
Degree, major, and minor

Education section for students and graduates

This is a longer example you can use if you're a current student or recent graduate.

Here's the expanded template:

EDUCATION
Name of college or university, location
Date of graduation
Degree, major, and minor
Awards and GPA (if above 3.5)
Relevant coursework

What to include in your resume education section

As a general rule, you should limit your education section to information that's relevant to the job you're applying for.

Must haves:

• The university or college you attended
• The degree you obtained
• Your major(s)

Optional:

• The year you graduated
• Minor(s)
• Awards and honors
• GPA
• Study abroad
• Relevant coursework
• Extracurricular activities
• Other certifications
• Educational projects
• Internships and student placements
• Unfinished degrees

The university or college and degree

This one's a no-brainer. If nothing else, you must include the name of your degree and where you obtained it.

Example:

Major and minor

You should pretty much always list your major, unless you completed your degree in a completely unrelated field. Listing your minor is a good idea if it's in any way relevant to the job you're now applying for.

Example:

More information: How to put a double major on a resume and the minors you need to include on your resume

Awards and honors

Any major awards or honors should go in your resume education section. These include cum laude or magna cum laude, dean's list, and fellowships.

Example:

More information: How to list honors on your resume

GPA

Your GPA is very optional — only include it if you're a current student or recent graduate and it's above 3.5. In all other cases, leave it off.

Example:

Study abroad

If you’re a current student, it’s fine to list study abroad on your resume. You can list the experience under the host school, making sure to note that it was a study abroad program.

Example:

More information: Turn study abroad into a job with these resume tips

Coursework

If you're an experienced hire, skip this step. If you have real work experience, including coursework will look strangely out of touch.

If you're a current student and don't have a lot of relevant work experience, relevant coursework can help demonstrate key skills and get you past Applicant Tracking Systems. You can list a handful of subjects on one line underneath your degree and major.

Example:

More information: What to put on your resume if you don't have a lot of experience

Extracurricular activities

You can include student activities a subsection of your resume education section (if they only take up a line or two) or in a separate section (if you want to include key accomplishments).

Example:

More information: How to showcase extracurriculars on your resume

Other certifications

Other certifications and qualifications can go on your resume, but be critical about what you list. This could include certificates, licences, technical qualifications, and other types of continuing education — as long as they’re relevant to the job you’re applying for. You also don’t need to list every conference or seminar you’ve ever attended. Keep it limited to substantial qualifications that help you stand out.

Example:

More information: The right way to list certifications on a resume

Educational projects

Projects can also be listed in their own section if you choose to elaborate on your accomplishments — if you're a current student or recent graduate, this is a great way to highlight relevant skills. If you'd rather keep it brief, include a 'Projects' subheading in your education section and list them there instead.

Example:

More information: How to list projects on your resume

Internships and student placements

Internships — paid or unpaid — are generally a better fit for your work experience section, since they take place in a professional work environment. List these the same way as paid work experience, including the name of the employer, the dates of the internship, and a few key accomplishments in bullet points.

You can include student placements if they were a) significant, b) recent, and c) relevant. In other words, a six-month hospital placement belongs on your resume if you're a recent nursing graduate, but a two-week observation probably doesn't.

Example:

More information: How to write effective resume bullet points

Unfinished degrees

It's fine to list an unfinished degree on your resume. Do list an unfinished degree if it's relevant to the job you're applying for, demonstrates key skills, or explains a long career gap. Don't list an unfinished degree if it's much older or  in a different industry than the one you now work in — only include it if it strengthens your candidacy.

It’s also okay to include your degree if you haven’t officially graduated yet — simply list it as “expected May 2027” (or whatever date applies).

Example:

Boston University (2020-2021)
Boston, MA
Bachelor of Arts in Communication — Completed 20 credit hours

More information: Listing an unfinished degree on your resume

I’d recommend uploading your resume to the tool below to find out if your education section is structured the right way. It’ll scan your education section and let you know if you’ve listed your degrees, majors & minors, GPA, honors, coursework and projects the right way. It’ll also let you know which of these belong on your resume and which ones to leave off entirely.

Do's and don'ts for structuring your education section

Here are some general do's and don'ts for formatting the education section of your resume:

Do:

• Keep it brief. In most cases, your education section only needs to be a line or two underneath your work experience.
• Highlight any particularly impressive accomplishments, like graduating summa cum laude or receiving a prestigious fellowship.
• Include unfinished degrees if you're still in school or they're relevant to the job you're applying for.
• List all your degrees, not just the most recent. You may think your bachelor’s degree in art history doesn’t matter if you have a master’s in engineering and are applying for jobs as an engineer, but it’ll look weird if you leave it off altogether.
• Leave a degree off your resume only if it isn’t relevant and it could make you appear overqualified — for example, if you have PhD in mathematics and are applying for jobs as an entry-level salesperson.
• Always include an education section, even if it's very short.

Don't:

• Include more information than is necessary. Stick to details that strengthen your candidacy — if it's not relevant, leave it off.
• Include your GPA unless it's very high (above 3.5). Listing a 2.0 GPA isn't going to impress any recruiters — but the good news is, once you've graduated, it isn't relevant anyway.
• List high school information (unless you're a current high school student).

Tips for writing a resume education section

Wondering how these rules apply to your specific circumstances? Here's some more targeted advice for different situations.

If you’re a recent graduate

As a recent graduate, always include your graduation date on your resume. If you don’t have a lot of work experience, a recent graduation date makes it obvious why.

Unlike more experienced hires, recent graduates can use your education section to highlight your achievements. This includes awards, student initiatives, study abroad programs, language proficiency, key leadership skills, and any major accomplishments.

If you’re a current student

If you’re still studying, your education section can be a lot bigger, since you’re unlikely to have a lot of relevant work experience. You should include any major accomplishments, including awards and involvement in extracurricular activities. If you know when you’ll be graduating, go ahead and list the expected date.

Any part-time work experience or internships can go in the work history section of your resume.

If you graduated a while ago

Try to keep your education section as short as possible.  The longer you’ve been in the workforce, the shorter it should be. If you graduated some time ago (e.g. 8+ years), it’s common practice to omit the date (and a good idea for those who want to avoid any potential age discrimination).

If you transferred schools

If you started and finished your degree at different institutions — including transferring between four-year schools or from a community college — it's fine to just list the name of the school you graduated from. If you're a recent graduate and have achievements on your resume from your previous institution (like involvement in student organizations), you can consider listing both schools for clarification.

If you have multiple degrees

If you have multiple degrees, list them in reverse chronological order with the most recent first.

Key takeaways

Remember that your resume is about presenting you as a strong applicant for a position rather than about adding as much information as possible. Normal resume rules apply — if it strengthens your candidacy, leave it in. If it takes the spotlight off more impressive work experience, take it off.

Everything on your resume should have a single purpose: Demonstrating that you’re a good fit for the position you’re applying to. This means:

• Tailor your resume: Add or remove experiences and qualifications from your experience section as necessary to fit each specific role.
• If you don't have much work experience: Expand your education section when you don’t have a lot of work experience, or if the experience you do have isn’t particularly relevant. On the other side, if your work experience is extensive or impressive on its own, anything else you add risks taking focus away from the parts you want to highlight.
• If you’re a career changer: Fresh qualifications can help bridge the gap between your old industry and the new role you want.

Should you lead with work experience or education on your resume?

The convention is for your education section to be after your work experience, but there are some situations where that doesn’t apply.

You can put your education section at the top of your resume if:

• You're still a student
• You graduated recently
• You're changing careers

AND

• Your education is the most relevant part of your resume

Recent or current students can lead with your education section

If you’re a current student and don’t have a lot of work experience, it’s fine to lead with your education section. It’s the most recent (and likely most relevant) experience you have. Leading with your education also prevents anyone who’s skimming over your resume from assuming that you’re simply inexperienced or unemployed, when the reality is that you’re in full-time education.

The same applies if you’re a recent graduate. If your education is still the most relevant or most impressive experience you have, list it first.

Career changers can start their resumes with an education section, if it's relevant

The last exception is career changers. If you’ve gone back to school as part of the career change process, you can list your education first. A new qualification is more relevant than your experience in a different industry. It also provides important context for your application, as a resume that solely focuses on your past experience in a different sector might otherwise be confusing to a hiring manager.

If you’re a career changer looking for new qualifications to include in your education section but aren’t sure what skills you need, use the tool below to find a list of skills and keywords required for the job you want.

Otherwise, your work experience should come before your education section

If the situations above don’t apply to you, and you don’t have another good reason to list your education first, stick to the standard convention as lead with your work experience. Employers primarily want to know about your work history and achievements, so unless your education is very recent, you’re better of focusing on your professional accomplishments.