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7 Business Owner Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Business Owner

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Business Owner Resume

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Operating your own business is a rewarding experience; you’re passionate about your product or service, and your unique business brings joy to many customers.

If you’re considering traditional employment or stepping into a new venture, it’s probably time to access a quick resume builder . However,  writing your resume  is more complicated than it looks when it comes to summarizing your activities and responsibilities.

Fortunately, we’ve done all the hard work for you!

We’ve researched numerous business owners’ resumes to determine what worked to get an interview in 2024 . We’ve distilled our research into seven free business owner resume samples to inspire your business owner resume. Check out our tips to perfect your resume and land you an interview for the job of your dreams!

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Dishing out job-ad-tailored phrases like “secure wholesale merchandise and produce” and “opening lanes and helping customers self check out” is like serving the hiring manager a double espresso shot of your attention grabbers, nudging them to see why you’re the best match for the job.
• One of the things that truly market you well is your skillset. And the point we’re trying to drive home? It’s got to be top-tier— think along the lines of digital marketing, business development, inventory management, and POS systems savviness. However, don’t just drop a bland list of these proficiencies; ensure they take center stage in your work history.
• Yawn-inducing verbs that don’t scream action hardly cut it in resumes. Flip the script and kick off your bullet points with high-energy terms like “Collaborated” and “Developed” and witness your duties and wins get a serious level-up.
• For the pièce de résistance, validate your claims to greatness by quantifying your achievements, strategically accenting strengths like cost-saving skills. Statements like “increasing employee retention by 21%” and “decreasing overhead costs by 27%” make for perfect examples in Mirabel’s piece.

Self-Employed Business Owner Resume

• For event planners, personal parties you’ve organized can fit nicely on your self-employed business owner resume.

Small Business Owner Resume

• You can provide metrics regarding revenue, the number of store locations you opened, the amount of positive performance reviews, customer and employee satisfaction scores, or the amount of awards you won. If you can find numbers for something, include it!
• Start by including relevant skill keywords in your  resume’s skill section . Check your list against the job description so your resume matches their expectations.

Online Business Owner Resume

• We’d recommend putting your online business owner resume in reverse-chronological order, meaning your most recent work experience is listed first.
• Employers will pay the most attention to the top third of your resume, so make sure they see your (likely) most impressive experience first.
• For each job, list three to six bullet points with relevant content. Start each bullet point with an action verb and minimize personal pronouns to keep your resume concise.

Cleaning Business Owner Resume

• This cleaning business owner resume focuses on the duties that come with owning an enterprise, while drawing less attention to the ancillary cleaning position.

Restaurant Business Owner Resume

• If that’s the case, use a  Word resume template  or a  Google Doc resume template  to format your resume correctly, but always download it after you’re done. Sometimes your resume formatting doesn’t translate properly, so do one last check to make sure it looks polished and professional.
• As a business owner with years of experience, your best bet is to place your skills and work experience sections higher on your resume but underneath your contact header. 

Construction Business Owner Resume

• Highlight your marketing capabilities, customer service skills, fiscal responsibility, and management abilities regarding your construction company.
• Pay special attention to your grammar, word choice, and active voice. The goal is to sound professional and competent!

Related resume guides

• Business Development
• Account Manager

Small Business Owner Resume & Writing Guide

When you are a Small Business Owner and scouting for a new position, buying into another small business, or even applying for contracts and tenders, you need a stellar resume. It is essential first to check out a top-notch Small Business Owner resume sample.

You want to make sure your resume stands out from the rest by being both informative and entertaining to read without overwhelming the potential sponsor, prospective partner, or funding manager with irrelevant information.

How you create a resume into an interview-winning document, we will explain to you in detail below with our: How to make a Resume Guideline for Small Business Owner Roles

What you can read in this article

Small Business Owner Resume Sample

Small Business Owner Resume Guide:

Resume sections.

1. Contact Information :

• Be sure to include alternative contact channels, as well as your LinkedIn profile or Facebook URL details

2. Profile Summary : “ View this as the introduction to your resume and include 1-3 sentences giving a broad overview of your background, years of industry experience and the industry sectors of interest. You should be specific and state which job you are applying to. “

3. Qualifications Summary : Provide accurate details about the certifications and qualifications you have completed with the institution, qualification name, and dates. Don’t forget to include the qualifications you are currently completing too.

4. Relevant Ownership Experience : Clearly state your employment history from providing details regarding the last ten years of experience up until your current position. Use brief sentences with bullet points to list the most important managerial and supervisory duties under each role you have had.

5. Other Employment Experience : This will include projects or work history which shows your career progression into the Small Business Owner position you may occupy at present, but only elaborate on these with job descriptions if you have less than years of experience in a Small Business Owner role.

Otherwise, just list job title company and duration as to make sure there are no gaps in your employment history. This section is especially important if you are on a level slightly more junior than a Small Business Owner.

You need to reveal your supervisory and managerial experience gained unofficially while for instance in a vocational or temporary job to showcase your abilities to supervise and lead teams and oversee operational and financial duties.

6. Skills Summary/Key Skills : Incorporates keywords from the job posting and your specific skill set. This adds much-needed credibility to your resume.

7. Education/Licenses/Certifications/Relevant Coursework/Training : Start with your formal degrees and post-school diplomas or accreditations like an MBA. List any professional development that better prepared you to work in the management field such as leadership training, employee development workshops and business management courses

What to Highlight in a Small Business Owner Resume

Regardless of your experience as a Small Business Owner, there are a few vital things that companies, sponsors and financial service providers need to know about you to ensure that you are the right fit for their investment. (Also see Small Business Sales Manager Resume Guide )

Small Business Owners have operational and strategic responsibilities, and they are often the last man standing when crises hit.

Business Owners operate their own companies and handle responsibilities such as creating business plans, arranging to finance, hiring staff, reviewing sales , developing marketing strategies, overseeing daily activities, and identifying business opportunities.

The first aspect to highlight is the scope of your work tenure in product type or industry area.

There are millions of businesses out there with every imaginable product or solution. It would be best if you were specific about the product type or service offering you have experience in from a technical perspective (industry knowledge), a financial perspective (budgets, cash flow), operational perspective (sales, logistics, procurement) as well as a human resources (supervising people) perspective.

While this job does require you to take control and delegate responsibilities to other workers, Small Business Owners get their hands just as dirty as their workers and staff members.

Although delegation is key, Small Business Owners often have to step in during times of crises and engage in activities like dealing with customers, answering phones, filing paperwork, training new employees, cleaning the store/office and covering shifts when staff are sick or pick up products and merchandise from suppliers.

Next comes the targets, goals and production metrics that the employees under your supervision need to achieve.

Be number specific here and provide actual data. For example, as a Small Business Owner, you can mention the 1 million turnovers made in the second quarter with average sales value per rep at $30 000.

This shows that you can analyze sales statistics, which is necessary to determine sales potential and inventory requirements and monitor the preferences of customers.

Next, employers, sponsors, financial service providers, and prospective business partners want to see the range of budgets you have experience overseeing. One of the main tasks of a Small Business Owner is to allocate resources (human or financial) to specific projects like marketing campaigns or product launches.

In larger organizations, these are usually handled by the marketing or advertising team, but these are tasks Small Business Owners are often responsible for.

There is a big difference between $5k projects and $1.5M projects. This information should be in your summary, as well as your position descriptions.

You may also need to mention the project management tools you are familiar with as you will often be the superuser or platform administrator on these applications (Zoho Projects, Resource Guru, GamePlan and Aggio)

*Cool Tip for a stellar resume

You can really create an excellent first impression by breaking your job description down into the main responsibility areas of a Small Business Owner:

• Planning Creating and updating business plans and marketing plans. Structure short, medium, and long term financial plans. Prepare budgets and approve budgetary expenses. Determine discount rates and pricing schedules. Conduct sales forecasts and establish sales targets. Schedule implementation of career development and training plans.
• Organizing A Small Business Owner’s job is often a juggling exercise of numerous activities. You must be able to stay focused during crisis times and delegate tasks to employees to keep business running smoothly.
• Leading You will have several people you need to supervise in addition to handling general complaints, last-minute production schedule changes, warehousing problems. Small Business Owners are leaders that operate in the trenches of operations and service delivery.
• Controlling Responsible for statutory compliance and adhering to state and federal regulations. Review operational activity records and reports to compare actual vs. target outcomes. Manage profitability ratios. Monitor internal and external stakeholder preferences to determine the focus of sales efforts.
• Recruiting & Training Small Business Owners are usually the ones responsible for recruiting and interviewing prospective candidates and shortlist the top three for final interviews with the senior manager. They are also responsible for training and onboarding newcomers.

Make sure to include the following details

• GPA score if you have completed a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree. (if higher than 3.5)
• The number of employees you are managing as well as the headcount figures of any admin staff.
• The business management tools you are familiar with like WorkEtc, Zoho, Adios, 1CRM, and Booker to name but a few.
• Sound financial management one of the main pillars contributing to small business success (Freshbooks, InDinero, Floats, SosInventory, Expensify)
• If you use HR management tools, mention these as well ( Zenefits , ZenPayroll, SpiderGroups, i-Sight, OpenElevator)
• Also mention the sales management platforms and customer relationship management ( CRM ) platforms you are familiar with like Sage, SAP, Oracle, and Vanguard, Lotus Notes.
• Remember to include communication and collaboration tools, for instance, cloud-based systems like Slack, Trello, Asana or even Skype which you are currently using to facilitate communication between team members.

Career Summary & Examples

Hiring managers, banks, and sponsors have large numbers of hundreds of applications to screen and limited time to read them all in detail.

Keep your career summary concise and to the point. Put the most relevant information first to capture their attention while they’re quickly scanning your resume.

Start your career summary with your years of experience in the industry and the primary duties you performed.

When deciding what duties to add, use the job description as your guide. For instance, if the job you are applying to highlights leading and motivating teams use those same words and phrases.

The more your resume resonates with the job description of keywords, the better fit you will seem.

Next, add a line that showcases any outstanding qualities that will add value to the company. A funding manager or business scout would be interested to know if you have “strong coordination skills, creative leadership abilities and a flair for statistics, metrics and production ratios.”

It’s important to note that these qualities should be proven with examples in the professional experience section to re-enforce your message.

Finally, end your summary with your educational degrees/diplomas and any certified courses or professional memberships you may have that are pertinent to the job.

Career Summary example 1 Business Owner with 15 years’ experience in a service environment solely responsible for all marketing communications, branding, PR, advertising, search engine optimization activities. Built client base from 0 to 60 clients, achieving annual gross sales of $400,000. Average debt-cycle is 60 days and profit to earnings ratio has been at 30% for the last five years. Holds an MBA and various business management certifications.

Career Summary example 2 Young business professional, with five years’ entrepreneurial experience in the automotive products industry. Highly competent in problem-solving and ascertaining client needs. Poised, resourceful manager and adaptable to any environment. Organizational ability to handle multiple priorities and deadline situations. A self-starter and a nimble learner, who believes in continuous innovation and reinvention. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and is currently serving as CEO of the BNI network in the county.

Small Business Owner Resume Job Descriptions

An employer or prospective business partner would expect to see the following proven foundational duties and skill sets within an applicant’s resume, depending on educational level and career stage.

Small Business Owner roles are available in virtually every industry, but we have selected a few examples below to get you started.

Use these short versions in conjunction with the standard responsibilities described earlier in the ‘’cool tips for a stellar resume section’’ to beef up your experience.

A Small Business Owner in Cellular and Telecoms may:

• Ensure that equipment and machinery are adequately maintained and promptly repaired by assigned workers.
• Market products such as wireless, cellular, merchant services, television and more focusing on bottom-line savings and value.
• Utilize customer statements to analyze savings and potential value-added services.
• Promotion via social media platforms to improve brand identity and generate warm leads.

A Small Business Owner in a Production/Manufacturing/Engineering Environment may:

• Evaluate production rates daily to diagnose problems and possible solutions to any deviations reflected in the production metrics.
• Monitor production quotas, and quality standards.
• Enforce safety and health policies and procedures.

A Small Business Owner in Digital Advertising may:

• Manage web portal e-Commerce business specializing automotive resale for large brand names.
• Act as liaison between distributor and customer.
• Responsible for strategic planning, operations, merchandising, and marketing for the online community.
• Drive customer relations, brand positioning, revenue growth, financial management, driving operational excellence, business development , price negotiations.

A Small Business Owner in Insurance may:

• Create customized insurance plans by calculating and quoting rates for immediate coverage action as well as and long-term coverage.
• Obtains underwriting approval by managing the application process between client and insurer.
• Provide administrative services inclusive of direct deposit forms and processing amendments in beneficiary and policy loan applications.

Accomplishments

Under your experience section, you may be tempted to copy and paste the list of duties you performed as detailed in your job description. The drawback to doing this, though, is that you won’t stand out from the other applicants with similar experience.

Your goal is to think about what sets you apart, what you are most proud of, or what you accomplished in your previous roles, and communicate these through action-packed statements that are compelling.

Flat, Simple Duty:

• Responsible for marketing duties

Accomplishment Statement:

• Established email marketing campaigns that generated an average of 30 leads and 12 new customers a month.

Quantifying Your Small Business Owner Resume

When writing your resume, if you can answer the questions, “How much?” or “How many?” It would be best if you tried to include those numbers. For instance:

• If you saved time, how much?
• If you improved annual sales, provide percentages to showcase the revenue increase.
• If you improved quality control how did that impact on factory downtime?

Example 1 Negotiated new service level agreements with suppliers, resulting in an `18% reduction in material expenditure and a saving of $200k per year.

Example 2 Saved $500k per quarter by decreasing overheads by 19% due to better utilization of resources.

Example 3 Reduced Workers’ Compensation costs by 35% per annum with the implementation of employee wellness programmes and safety training initiatives.

The education section forms an integral part of your resume. In short, indicate What, Where, and When regarding your qualifications , certifications, or industry licenses obtained. The name of your qualification , institution , and date of completion is more than sufficient.

Remember to include current qualifications you are in the process of completing. Regarding courses and certifications, discretion and relevance must be considered.

Completed Secondary and Tertiary Education must be listed as follows:

Start with the commencement date and completion date for diplomas, associate degrees, and bachelor degrees.

For courses, you can just list the date of completion. Next comes the full name of the qualification, then the full name of the institution and then the City or abbreviated State name.

Here are some examples of a Small Business Owner Resume for someone with more than five years’ experience:

2013 – Financial Management for Non-Financial Managers Training, Boston City College, MA

2012 – Diploma in Project Management, New York Business Academy, New York, NY

2010 – Advanced Certificate in Entrepreneurship, MIT, Online

2006-2008 Masters in Business Administration, Chicago State University, IL

2002-2005 Bachelor of Communication Science, University of Arizona, AR

Small Business Owner Skills

Although the management field requires specific technical skills, employers also look for other skills, called soft skills. These are the main types of skills that indicate to your fit as a Small Business Owner who will add value, has adequate knowledge, sufficient experience and who will motivate and inspire teams. Incorporate these into your summary, or profile, and into your accomplishment statements.

Technical Skills Examples

• Educational Attainment A university degree is not generally required to become a Small Business Owner. In highly technical industries like Finance or IT, top suggested degrees are Business Management, Information Technology, Financial Management, and Marketing and a Master’s in Business Administration.
• Technical Aptitude Small Business Owners need to be strategically orientated to create operational plans, new business development strategies and establish new client markets, On the other hand, a Small Business Owner must be hands-on in driving daily production activities of staff by implementing automated tracking software. They also need to be financially savvy to compile budgets.
• Managerial Ability Small Business Owners are constantly challenged the ups and downs of employee performance cycles. Therefore, strong leadership skills are a must to motivate or critique the consultant’s performance in a constructive manner.
• Other Technical Skills Budgets, Strategic Marketing, Research, Analytics, Social Media, Cloud-Based Collaboration Platforms, CRM Systems, Quality Control, Report Writing, Feedback Mechanisms.

Soft Skill Examples

• Attention to Detail
• Self-Control
• Collaboration
• Persistence
• Social Perceptiveness
• Service Orientation
• Strategic Thinking

Qualifications/Certifications associated with Small Business Owners

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Action Verbs for your Small Business Owner Resume

Industries Using Small Business Owners:

• Construction
• Oil, Gas & Exploration
• Medical Device
• Life Sciences
• Food Manufacturing
• Consumer Goods
• Metals & Steel Production
• Packaging & Distribution
• Agriculture
• Electronic Components
• Power Plants
• Specialty Chemicals
• Pharmaceutical
• Industrial Engineering
• Information Technology
• Courier Services
• Transportation
• Advertising Agencies
• Training Consultants
• Accounting and Taxation

Professional information for Small Business Owners

Sectors: Various Career Type : Operations, Business Management, Team Dynamics Person type : Leader, Motivator, Coach, Trainer Education levels : Post School Diploma to Masters’ Degree Salary indication : Varied From $34k to $200k Labor market: An estimated average of 3.6% growth between 2016 and 2026 Organizations : Small, Medium, below $35 million turnovers for government-related small business, below $7 million turnovers for private companies

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Small Business Owner resume examples & templates

Resume header

Creating a successful small business is both challenging and rewarding, but the benefits extend far past the owner. Small businesses are the backbone of communities around the world, so you’ll want your resume to be as strong as you are. Since no two small business owners have the same story, trying to fit your unique experience on a resume can feel a bit daunting. Luckily, there are basic guidelines to help you share your passion and skills on a resume.

With 300+ resume examples and writing guides for jobs across industries, Resume.io is an expert resource for job seekers in every stage of their careers. This resume guide, along with the corresponding resume example will cover the following topics:

What does a small business owner do?

• How to write a small business owner resume (tips and tricks)
• The best format for a small business owner resume
• Advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
• Professional resume layout and design hints.

Want more proof of the economic value small businesses provide? Nearly half of all U.S. employees work for small businesses which have added over 12.9 million jobs in the past 25 years, according to Forbes .

Small business owners are defined simply by the fact that they own their own company which may take any number of forms including a physical shop, a website, or a service business. Small business owners are often entrepreneurial-minded people who take on a variety of roles within their companies. While specific duties often vary depending on the sector, some common tasks of small business owners include:

• Developing the business concept and defining the goods or services to be offered
• Finding, renting, or buying a location for brick-and-mortar businesses
• Maintaining shop appearance and product display
• Ordering inventory
• Hiring and training staff
• Bookkeeping and payroll management for employees or vendors
• Creation of a website and marketing materials for online businesses
• Ordering equipment or supplies needed for business operations

How to write a small business owner resume

The very first step in writing your small business owner resume is understanding what sections to include. Your CV should contain the following elements:

• The resume header
• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

There are many reasons why a small business owner may need to write a resume, including when selling the business and merging with another company, when looking for a second job, or when applying for a grant or other aid program. By identifying your reason for writing this resume, you can customize it for the needs of the employer or other person who will be reading it. A tailored resume is one of the best ways to ensure you make a great first impression and come across as a serious and motivated candidate.

Owning a small business is a journey in its own right and you may feel that you have loads to say about your experience and skill set. However, most resumes should be kept to a maximum of one page meaning that every sentence should serve a purpose. Aim to use action verbs, numbers, and key statistics to highlight your strongest qualities and the transferable skills you've acquired as a small business owner.

Choosing the best resume format for a small business owner

Because of the varied nature of owning a small business, you have a variety of options when it comes to choosing the best format for your resume. If you have traditional employment experience to show in addition to your small business, you should opt for the reverse chronological resume. This format is often considered the “standard” structure since it’s what most hiring managers expect to see. A reverse chronological resume gets its name from its focus on the employment history section where previous experiences are listed from most recent to oldest.

If you work in a highly technical field or you think your skills are your strongest selling point, a functional resume might be better suited to your experience. This format starts with the skills section and contains a very minimal work history section. A hybrid format or combination of functional and reverse chronological format is the best choice for those who want to highlight specialized skills along with traditional employment.

The first essential section of a great resume is the header, which is usually found at the very top of the page or as a side column. The header serves to label your document and keep your name and contact information at the hiring manager’s fingertips so they can easily contact you. If you’d like to showcase your small business further, you can include your LinkedIn or another professional social media account. The design of your header is also an important element to consider and we’ll discuss it further in a later chapter. Check out our adaptable resume sample for more ideas on creating a small business resume header.

Resume summary example

The resume summary is the first section after the header. The purpose of these 3-5 sentences is to introduce you and your key experiences so that the hiring manager will continue to read your application. If your small business is your proudest accomplishment, make sure to mention it here along with any impressive metrics like sales, noteworthy clients, or expansion plans. The summary should also showcase your personality in a professional and positive manner. Below you’ll find an adaptable summary resume example that you can modify for your own experience.

Highly experienced in all aspects of retail management within busy, fast-paced clothing sales environments. Able to shift gears rapidly and adapt to a wide range of retail needs and schedules. Prepared to leverage small business management skills in a new challenge. 

Since the summary is the most free-form section of the resume, it’s worth checking out our related resume examples for inspiration:

• Starbucks resume sample
• Retail cashier resume sample
• Retail manager resume sample
• Store manager resume sample
• Ikea resume sample
• Mercadona resume sample
• Art gallery resume sample
• Auction house manager resume sample
• Antique dealer resume sample
• Cashier resume sample
• Coffee shop manager resume sample

Employment history example

One of the biggest challenges of writing your small business owner resume will likely be crafting an employment history section that captures the breadth of your experiences. While the standard employment history section is geared towards traditional employment, there are plenty of ways to make your unique experience shine. If you have multiple employment entries, simply list your small business as the most recent. Mention the business name, your role as the owner or founder, the date started, and the location. Then add 4-5 bullet points that clearly demonstrate your ability to create a successful small business. Add other types of employment below this entry with the same key elements. Get started with our adaptable resume example below.

Retail Operations Manager at Steph's Boutique, Portland, ME March 2011 - Present

• Built business from the ground up providing affordable, chic clothing to visitors of vibrant downtown Portland.
• Selected location, designed welcoming, appealing storefront and and assembled / decorated all store fixtures.
• Perform all business, financial and customer service functions and hire / train part-time sales staff.
• Keep sales records, balance register, maintain POS systems and perform all accounting and financial forecasting functions.

Clothing Department Sales Assistant at Target, Portland, ME April 2009 - January 2011

• Assisted customers with locating, sizing and selecting garments and accessories.
• Utilized POS system to complete sales and handle returns.
• Consistently exhibited engaging, outgoing demeanor in all customer interactions.
• Worked with managers in resolving issues with purchases, returns and dissatisfied customers.

What if my small business is my only employment to date?

There are a few ways to handle this situation. One option is to create a functional or combination resume that highlights the skills you gained as a small business owner first and foremost. You can also rename your Employment History section to “Experience” and add a variety of other positions like volunteer or leadership roles.

CV skills example

The skills section of your CV is at the heart of any complete small business owner resume. Your experience has no doubt given you a wide range of skills that could be applied across industries. However, before writing this section, take a moment to reread the job description you are applying for. Look for the overlap between the employer’s needs and your best qualities. Those are the skills to focus on in this section. Make sure to pair your list down to the top four or five skills and use the employer’s exact language when adding them to your CV. See our adaptable skills resume example below.

• Retail Store Operations
• Accounting & Bookkeeping
• Visual Merchandising
• Customer Service
• Business Management
• Business Analysis
• POS Systems
• Conflict Resolution
• Microsoft Office
• Time Management
• Payroll & Scheduling
• Fast Learner
• Adaptability

Small business owner resume education example

Small business owners come from a variety of educational backgrounds so this section may change form depending on your experience and the job you are applying for. As a general rule, if you’ve completed any advanced degree, relevant training program, or certificate then you should include it in an education section along with the school name, dates attended, and location. You may also choose to add bullet points with any noteworthy courses. Your GPA is only relevant if you are a recent graduate and it is particularly impressive. Otherwise, you’ll likely want to leave it off and let your small business experience take center stage. See our adaptable education resume example below.

Associate of Science in Business Administration, Southern Maine Community College, South Portland, ME September 2008 - May 2010

• GPA: 3.8/4.0.
• Honors Graduate.
• President, Student Fashion Club.

Resume layout and design

Before a hiring manager or other reader finds out about your small business experience, the layout and design of your resume are the first things they will notice. It’s important to convey the right qualities in your presentation, so take a closer look at the company or organization you are applying to. Your design should leave the employer with no doubt that you’d fit into the company culture. If you’re not applying for a grant instead of a new job, make sure your layout mimics the branding and look of your small business so that your personality can fully shine through. Here are a few more tips:

• Create an attractive header with a professional accent color
• Keep a balance of white space to text
• Try out a resume template to make formatting much faster
• Change the margin size to squeeze in more information
• Use more than one or two fonts styles
• Forget to proofread before submitting

Key takeaways for a small business owner resume

• Your small business is a super power to propel your job search – if you can create a strong and convincing resume.
• Don’t forget to pay attention to the needs of the employer and focus on the skills and experience areas that are most relevant to the position you are applying for.
• Adjust your resume format based on your needs. While the reverse chronological is most common, there are other options.
• Check out our adaptable small business owner resume example as a starting point for your own application.

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• Resume Tips

(Former) Small Business Owner Resume Examples for 2024

13 min read

Many of us at one time or another dream of quitting our jobs and opening our own businesses. Who wouldn’t love to be their own boss?

Unfortunately, the entrepreneurial and small business life isn’t for everyone, and experts estimate that somewhere between 50% to 80% of new businesses fail within ten years. That low success rate scares off most would-be entrepreneurs. Still, millions of brave souls attempt the feat anyway.

So, what happens to them when their business and their dreams fail? Many go back to more traditional jobs in the workforce, of course. But that return can be a struggle in many instances. Here are some small business owner resume tips for returning to the workplace.

The challenge is real

Make no mistake; for small business owners returning to the workplace, many difficult challenges await. It can be difficult to properly frame business ownership within a resume, and some employers are skeptical about hiring entrepreneurs for non-executive positions. These and other challenges can complicate the job search process.

That’s why the small business owner's resume is so critical to any job search. If your cover letter and resume are not carefully crafted, your odds of getting a job interview are dramatically reduced. That’s true regardless of whether you’re creating a construction business owner resume or any other entrepreneurial small business owner resume. For while being self-employed has its advantages, it can be problematic for your professional resume. 

Just consider:

How do employers verify the accuracy of your skill and experience claims?

Can you verify that you managed your own business? Have you maintained accurate financial records and tax filings that will stand up to a background check?

How do you convince the employer that you’re even open to taking direction from the company?

Will the employer question your commitment to the workplace? You left one job to start your own company. Will it happen again?

Obviously, you have a lot of work to do to answer these questions and provide the assurances needed to motivate any employer to give you a chance.

Former small business owner resume tips

The following tips can help small business owners returning to the workplace craft a great resume.

1. Choose the right format

Be sure to choose a format that is appropriate for the job requirements and responsibilities, and capable of highlighting your skills and achievements. A functional business owner resume may be one way to accomplish those goals since it can help to focus attention on your competencies and value, while minimizing your employment history.

However, we typically recommend a reverse-chronological resume for most job candidates. Even if you’ve been self-employed for a lengthy period, this option is still one of the most effective ways to format your resume. It also has the advantage of being most employers’ preferred resume format, and the one that is least likely to draw skepticism.

To use this format, you need to list your employment history in reverse order, beginning with your current or most recent job. So, if your most recent position was as a business owner, then that should be the first job you list in your work experience section. You can then list other relevant positions in reverse order, going back ten or fifteen years.

2. Choose your resume structure

You’ll need the right structure for your small business owner resume too. Fortunately, the reverse chronological resume format is well-suited for a simple, easy-to-follow structure that separates distinct types of employment information into their own sections. Those sections typically include:

Contact details : Include your name, location, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL here.

Job title or headline : This should be the job title you’re seeking, along with descriptive language that can help you stand out from the crowd.

Summary statement : Create a brief three to five-sentence paragraph that highlights your key skills, experience, and achievements. It’s a resume version of a sales pitch.

Core competencies : This section includes your skills, in bullet point form. Try to align them with the required skills from the job posting.

Work experience : Put your job experience information here. Usually, you will want to limit yourself to no more than three jobs.

Education : List your school, dates of attendance, degree or certificate earned, and any additional education you’ve acquired.

3. Pick the right job title

Instead of referring to yourself as a small business owner, you could emphasize the role (or one specific role) you had within the company.

Many small business owners are involved in most (if not all!) aspects of the business such as sales, marketing, product development, customer service, and fulfillment. Your resume should emphasize the experience you have in that function.

For example, if you are applying for a position as a marketing director, you can claim to have filled that role within your own company.

Don’t lie, of course. Just don’t be afraid to give yourself the right title to fit your job-seeking needs. If you filled that role in your own company, then the title fits. You aren't limited to one title, either: you can be the Founder and Marketing Director if that seems more accurate to you.

You should also match the title of your resume to the job you’re seeking. This is different from your job title because it aims to describe all your career experience, not the experience of one role.

4. Use a summary statement

Don’t forget to use a summary statement on your resume that details the value you can offer. Small business owners returning to the workplace often neglect the summary, since they’re not accustomed to focusing on other companies’ needs. A compelling summary statement can capture an employer’s attention and get them asking that all-important question: “Can I afford not to hire this superstar?” For example:

Experienced construction company project manager with excellent customer management, resource allocation, budgeting, and quality control skills. 8+ years of experience with commercial and residential projects, leading a team of as many as eight workers, with a 92% on-budget, on-time record of success.

5. Focus on your core skills

For small business owners returning to the workplace, skills are the biggest selling point. Chances are that you fulfilled many roles in your own company, such as marketing, social media, operational planning, customer service, leadership, business management planning, project management, financial management, training, education, customer service, and manager.

Focus on the skills you used to manage your own business and cite examples of how those skills benefited the company on your resume.

Including relevant hard skills on your business owner resume also helps you get past the ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) that over 90% of employers use. NOTE: Job seekers who don’t meet the qualifications are rejected by the software and the resume is never seen by a human.

Remember, relevant skills are those that fit the job you’re trying to get. So, all those technical construction skills you developed over time may not be of much use if you’re applying for a job as an IT manager. Carefully evaluate the job posting to identify those relevant skill qualifications.

Don’t forget to include transferable soft skills in your core competencies list. You should always assume that other candidates will have similar hard skills listed in their resumes. The soft skills that you choose to include could be the deciding factor in determining whether you get a chance to interview for the position.

6. Get your work experience section right

Your former small business owner resume may not be filled with examples of your time working for other people, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t have an employment story to tell. You just need to ensure that you craft a narrative that emphasizes the type of value you’re capable of offering to any prospective employer.

Start by focusing on your most recent job. List your job title and the name of the company, along with your dates of employment. Then, add as many as five or six bullet points below that job listing to highlight the things you achieved in that role.

Each of these accomplishments should showcase relevant skills needed for the job you’re seeking. In addition, you should try to include real numbers that quantify those achievements. That can help the reader visualize the type of value you will be able to bring to their organization.

7. Don’t be afraid to cite your business accomplishments

If you don’t sing your praises, who will? Trumpet your professional achievements, with real numbers that demonstrate value. Employers need to hear about your accomplishments so that they can imagine how you might benefit their companies. Your accomplishments can include anything you did that provided value to your company. For example:

Created an efficient accounting system that reduced budgeting and payroll time by 50%.

Hired and trained more than 40 employees over 4 years.

Located and contracted with a team of freelance professionals to create and launch the company website, increasing customer engagement by 75%.

Created company culture that fostered employee empowerment and personal initiative, contributing to 95% employee retention rate over a 3-year period.

Oversaw upgrades to computer network that reduced downtime by 88% while providing a 22% boost in productivity and accurate data management.

8. Create your education section

Your education section may not get the most attention from hiring managers, but it will be read – especially if there are educational credentials included among the core job qualifications. 

Always include all the information any hiring manager might need to see to fully understand your educational achievements. In addition to the details listed above, you may also want to include relevant fields of study, coursework, and even extracurricular activities that could help you perform the job.

Clean up your social media

If you have a LinkedIn page, you will want to clean it up and remove entries that focus on your business ownership. If you have a title that reflects that business ownership, consider changing it. In other words, update everything that may pose an obstacle to your efforts to get a job. While you’re at it, remove anything controversial as well .

Emphasize your desire to work within an organization

Finally, use a cover letter to wrap up your business owner resume’s highlights and drive home one simple message: You want the challenge of working in a company environment. You need to stress your desire to enjoy the camaraderie and shared feeling of accomplishment that comes from team collaboration and professional development.

Remember, small business owners returning to the workplace cannot hide their previous business ownership. You can, however, emphasize the lessons and skills learned during that period in your life, while minimizing the fact that you once wanted to be your own boss.

Former small business owner resume example

It can be helpful to have a business owner resume example as a template for your own resume.

As you return to the workplace, feel free to use the following business owner resume example as a guide to help you create a resume that works. With some modifications to meet your individual needs and circumstances, this former small business owner resume example can help you overcome some of the challenges you’ll face in applying to new roles and help you land the job you want.

John J. Smith

Anytown, Anystate | 555.555.5555 | [email protected] | LinkedIn URL

Marketing Director with expertise in strategic development, team building, and client acquisition

Dynamic and results-driven professional with a solid record of deploying marketing and sales initiatives that consistently achieve client satisfaction, preserve brand integrity, translate product vision, and connect with diverse audiences. Collaborative and energetic leader who infuses modern tools (CRM, SEO, Google AdWords, SalesForce) and emerging technologies into compelling sales and advertising plans that exceed performance goals in high-volume, rapidly evolving environments.

CORE PROFICIENCIES

__________________________________________________________________

Project Management & Execution | Internet & Digital Technology Proficiencies

Multi-Tasking Under Heavy Deadlines | Verbal, Written, and Presentation Skills

Design & Delivery of Training Systems | Metrics & Quota Attainment

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

_________________________________________________________________

ABC Corporation                                                                   2017 to Present

Owner and President

Subject matter expert (SME) on proactive sales techniques who builds integrated programs and service delivery directives that meet short and long-term objectives, capture record-breaking revenues, new pipeline/channel/lead generations, and adoption of advertising products.

Provide elite customer service to cross-industry small business (SMB) advertisers by calmly responding to shifting priorities and resolving escalated problems, potential risks, and conflicts.

Collaborate with clients and employees to manage contractual requirements valued at more than $20 million and team performance metrics while encouraging open communication and brainstorming innovative ideas.

Provided coaching and mentoring for a team of forty-two agents, team leaders, trainers, reporting analysts, and QA analysts with effective recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, appraisals, and goal-setting methods that return high productivity, low turnover, and strong team morale.

Manage department operations by allocating resources, scheduling deliverables, delegating daily responsibilities, evaluating challenges, and designing processes, policies, and procedures that advance continuous improvements to operating coordination and workflows.

Additional Experience:

Marketing Manager | Dynamic Marketing, 2011 to 2017

Oversaw team of 48 agents responsible for managing client accounts worth more than $80 million.

Successfully negotiated fifteen major campaign expansions, adding $23 million in revenue over six quarters.

Marketing Assistant | Excellon Communications, 2009 to 2011

Conducted market research and analysis, crafting more than three dozen comprehensive market plans for client accounts valued at more than $4 million.

Led team that revitalized Excellon’s marketing workflow, improving efficiency by 33%.

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

____________________________________________________________________

Master of Business Administration (MBA), Concentration in Marketing , University of Anytown 2008

Coursework included Marketing, Advertising, Quantitative Research, and Communications

Bachelor of Arts in Literature , University of Othertown

Certified Marketing Management Professional (CMMP), IIMP

Create a powerful small business owner resume

Getting back into the traditional workforce is hard, but writing your resume doesn't have to be. Use these tips to write a stellar former small business owner resume that focuses on your skills and value. If you do your job properly, your final resume product should include skills and experiences that align closely with the qualifications you find in the job posting and role description. That can help to ensure that you present yourself as the most qualified person for the job!

When you're done, you can submit your resume for a free review from our experts. Our team will help you ensure that your former small business owner resume delivers the compelling narrative you need to make a powerful first impression on any prospective employer.

Recommended reading:

Communication Skills on a Resume (Examples + Tips)

The Top Management Skills for Your Resume in 2024 (Update)

15 of the Fastest Growing Careers in the U.S. (+ Salaries)

Ken Chase, Freelance Writer

During Ken's two decades as a freelance writer, he has covered everything from banking and fintech to business management and the entertainment industry. His true passion, however, has always been focused on helping others achieve their career goals with timely job search and interview advice or the occasional resume consultation. When he's not working, Ken can usually be found adventuring with family and friends or playing fetch with his demanding German Shepherd. Read more resume advice from Ken on  ZipJob’s blog .

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• • Founded business from scratch, successfully growing it to a team of 10 employees
• • Generated average annual sales growth of 15%, making it a profitable venture
• • Developed online eCommerce platform, expanding customer reach globally
• • Implemented strategic marketing campaigns, resulting in a 20% increase in brand awareness
• • Worked with 100+ businesses, aiding to increase their customer reach
• • Helped increase clients' revenue by an average of 30% through targeted marketing strategies
• • Managed online ad campaigns with a monthly budget of over $10,000
• • Consistently recognised for achieving a 95% customer satisfaction rate
• • Helped drive an average of 6% growth in monthly sales for the department
• • Suggested new merchandise displays, resulting in a 10% uptick in sales

5 Self Employed Business Owner Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

As a self employed business owner resume, it's imperative to highlight your entrepreneurial spirit. Showcase your ability to identify opportunities and transform them into a profitable enterprise. Emphasize your expertise in managing all aspects of the business, from financials to marketing. Demonstrate your skill in executing strategies that led to growth and sustainability.

All resume examples in this guide

Traditional

Resume Guide

Formatting the layout of your self employed business owner resume: design, length, and more, detailing your relevant experience on your self employed business owner resume, highlighting your hard and soft skills on your self employed business owner resume, optimizing the education and certification sections of your self employed business owner resume, summary or objective: making your self employed business owner resume shine, how to include other relevant sections for your self employed business owner resume, key takeaways.

Self-employed business owners often struggle with articulating their varied responsibilities and achievements in a structured, corporate-friendly format on their resumes. Our guide can assist by providing industry-specific templates and actionable cues to help them effectively translate their entrepreneurial experiences into quantifiable accomplishments, making their skills more visible and appealing to potential employers.

Dive into this guide to discover how to craft a compelling self employed business owner resume:

• Explore top-tier self employed business owner resume samples, spotlighting industry-leading skills and experiences.
• Uncover over ten tailored strategies to make your self employed business owner resume resonate with the job description.
• Illuminate your unique value as a self employed business owner candidate, using your professional achievements as a guide.
• Debunk the myth that education doesn't matter, and learn how to leverage your academic and certification credentials effectively.

Recommended reads:

• Operations Associate resume
• Small Business Owner resume
• Cleaning Business Owner resume
• Online Business Owner resume
• Construction Business Owner resume

When it comes to the format of your self employed business owner resume , you've plenty of opportunities to get creative. But, as a general rule of thumb, there are four simple steps you could integrate into your resume layout.

• If you have plenty of experience, you'd like to showcase, invest in the reverse-chronological resume format . This format focuses on your latest experience items and skills you've learned during your relevant (and recent) jobs.
• Don't go over the two-page limit, when creating your professional self employed business owner resume. Curate within it mainly experience and skills that are relevant to the job.
• Make sure your self employed business owner resume header includes all of your valid contact information. You could also opt to display your professional portfolio or LinkedIn profile.
• Submit or send out your self employed business owner resume as a PDF, so you won't lose its layout and design.

Upload your resume

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

While color can enhance your self employed business owner resume by emphasizing key details like headlines, job titles, and degrees, moderation is key. Stick to a primary and a secondary color to maintain professionalism and avoid a cluttered appearance.

Essential components for your self employed business owner resume:

• Header: Feature your name prominently. If you have a notable degree or certification, append it next to your name. Include contact details, a link to your portfolio, and a concise headline.
• Summary or Objective: Align your professional trajectory and standout achievements with the desired role.
• Experience: Craft concise bullet points, highlighting tangible successes and contributions.
• Skills: Showcase them throughout your resume and consider a dedicated sidebar for emphasis.
• Education & Certifications: Reinforce your credibility and demonstrate your commitment to the industry.

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Entrepreneurial Skills: Demonstrating ability to start, develop, and manage a business from the ground up, including defining vision, setting strategic direction, securing resources, and operational management.
• Financial Management: Showing expertise in managing business finances, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Evidence of successful cost control and revenue generation is crucial.
• Sales and Marketing: Having solid experience in marketing strategies, sales techniques, and customer relationship management. Ability to grow a customer base and increase business visibility will be prioritized.
• Leadership: Displaying strong leadership qualities such as decision-making, team building, and conflict resolution. Recruiters like to see you've managed staff or teams effectively.
• Industry Knowledge: Possessing deep understanding of industry trends, competition, and regulatory environment. The ability to adapt and innovate based on market conditions is highly valued.
• Resume Icons
• Resume Margins

Showcase your credibility in the resume experience section. For an effective self employed business owner resume:

• Highlight measurable achievements.
• Scan the job advert for keywords and integrate them throughout your experience section.
• Emphasize your technical proficiencies and how you've applied them in various roles.
• Keep it simple: mention your responsibility, relevant skills, and the outcomes.
• Use this section to convey your unique value, soft skills, feedback received, and the type of company culture you thrive in.

Top professionals ensure their experience section offers a captivating look at their expertise. Check out our sample self employed business owner resumes for guidance.

• Launched and managed a successful e-commerce platform, resulting in a 150% increase in online sales within the first year.
• Implemented effective digital marketing strategies, including SEO and social media campaigns, leading to a 200% growth in website traffic.
• Collaborated with suppliers to negotiate favorable pricing terms, reducing costs by 20% and improving profit margins.
• Founded and operated a boutique coffee shop, overseeing all aspects of business operations and customer service.
• Developed a loyal customer base through personalized interactions and consistent delivery of high-quality products resulting in a 30% increase in annual revenue.
• Managed a team of 10 employees, providing training, scheduling, and performance evaluations to optimize productivity.
• Established a consulting firm specializing in process optimization for manufacturing companies, resulting in an average cost reduction of 15% for clients.
• Led cross-functional teams to implement lean manufacturing techniques, streamlining production processes and reducing lead time by 25%.
• Developed and delivered customized training programs to enhance employee skills, resulting in improved operational efficiency.
• Operated a freelance graphic design business, providing creative solutions to clients across various industries.
• Managed multiple design projects simultaneously, consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding client expectations resulting in a 90% client retention rate.
• Collaborated with clients to understand their brand identity and marketing goals, translating them into visually appealing designs.
• Founded and currently manage a digital marketing agency, offering comprehensive online marketing solutions to businesses.
• Developed and executed data-driven strategies to improve clients' website conversion rates by an average of 30%.
• Led a team of specialists in SEO, PPC advertising, and social media marketing to drive client success and achieve tangible results.
• Established a home renovation company, overseeing all project phases from planning to execution resulting in a portfolio of successful home transformations.
• Managed subcontractors, ensuring timely completion of projects within budget resulting in a 95% customer satisfaction rate.
• Implemented strategic marketing initiatives, targeting affluent neighborhoods resulting in a 40% increase in annual revenue.
• Founded and operated a pet grooming salon, providing exceptional grooming services to a diverse clientele.
• Developed customized grooming plans for each pet, resulting in improved customer satisfaction and repeat business.
• Implemented an online booking system and social media marketing campaigns, resulting in a 50% increase in new customer acquisition.
• Owned and managed a catering business, specializing in corporate events and private functions.
• Planned and executed high-profile events for clients, accommodating up to 500 guests, resulting in positive client testimonials and referrals.
• Negotiated contracts with suppliers, optimizing costs and ensuring high-quality ingredients resulting in a 20% increase in profit margin.
• Founded and operated a fitness studio, offering personalized training programs and group classes.
• Implemented innovative marketing strategies, resulting in a 75% increase in membership within the first year.
• Developed partnerships with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts, attracting a diverse clientele and increasing retention rates.
• Managed a small-scale farming operation, cultivating organic produce for local markets.
• Implemented sustainable farming practices, resulting in a significant reduction in resource consumption and environmental impact.
• Established relationships with local restaurants and farmers' markets, resulting in consistent sales and revenue growth.

Quantifying impact on your resume

• Include the number of employees you managed or hired to highlight your leadership and human resources capabilities.
• List the percentage by which you increased sales, revenue, or profit, showcasing your ability to drive business growth.
• Mention any cost-cutting measures you implemented, specifying the percentage of costs saved, to demonstrate your financial acumen and efficiency.
• Document quantifiable customer satisfaction metrics if available, to reflect your commitment to service excellence.
• Note down the number of new clients or accounts you secured, to evidence your strength in business development and relationship management.
• Add the total value of contracts or deals you closed, indicating your negotiation skills and the scale at which you can operate.
• Specify the number of projects you led or completed, outlining your project management skills and reliability.
• Cite any significant increases in website traffic or social media followers under your tenure, demonstrating your digital marketing prowess and ability to build brand recognition.

Lacking experience? Here's what to do.

Candidates with limited experience often fall into two categories:

• Recent graduates aiming for a self employed business owner role
• Professionals transitioning from a different field

Both can still land a job in the industry. Here's how to optimize the experience section of your self employed business owner resume:

• Highlight your strengths, especially if they align with the job requirements.
• Remove unrelated experiences. Your resume should tell a story that resonates with the self employed business owner role.
• Showcase your personality. Traits like ambition and diligence can make you an attractive candidate.
• Align your experience with the job requirements, ensuring your resume speaks directly to the role.
• Job Shadowing on Resume
• Can I Leave a Job I was Fired From Off my Resume

Highlight what sets your experience apart. Incorporate metrics, feedback, and the tangible value you've added to organizations. This specificity ensures your resume remains pertinent and memorable.

The skills section of your self employed business owner resume should showcase your capabilities that align with job requirements.

Your hard skills , or technical skills, demonstrate your proficiency with technological innovations and specific software. On the other hand, your soft skills illustrate how you'd excel in the workplace environment with personal attributes like resilience, negotiation, and organization.

For a well-rounded self employed business owner resume, it's essential to include both. Here's how to craft a standout skills section:

• Prioritize skills listed at the top of the job advert.
• Highlight unique skills you've honed over time.
• Choose soft skills that resonate with the company or department culture.
• Address essential job requirements by listing key skills for the self employed business owner role that haven't been mentioned elsewhere in your resume.

Check out our sample skill list for self employed business owner to get ideas on the most sought-after hard and soft skills in the industry.

Top skills for your self employed business owner resume

Business strategy planning

Financial management and accounting

Marketing and sales

Customer relationship management

Project management

Web development and SEO optimization

Human resources management

Supply chain management

Product or service knowledge

Legal compliance knowledge

Negotiation

Time management

Problem-solving

Communication

Adaptability

Critical thinking

Emotional intelligence

Self-motivation

When detailing your skills, align them with the job's requirements. Emphasize unique technical proficiencies and provide examples of your soft skills in action.

Your education and certification sections can be game-changers on your self employed business owner resume, showcasing your commitment to professional growth.

For the education section :

• Highlight advanced education, noting the institution and duration.
• If you're currently studying, mention your expected graduation date.
• Exclude degrees that don't align with the job's requirements.
• If relevant, delve into your academic journey, spotlighting significant achievements.

When listing degrees and certifications:

• Feature those directly relevant to the role.
• Highlight recent and significant knowledge or certifications at the top of your resume.
• Provide essential details like the issuing institution and dates for credibility.
• Avoid listing irrelevant degrees or certifications, such as your high school diploma or unrelated specializations.

Remember, even if you're tempted to omit your education or certifications, they can offer a competitive edge, signaling a long-term commitment to the industry.

Best certifications to list on your resume

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) - NASBA
• Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) - SHRM
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) - (ISC)²

If you have plenty of certifications, prioritize the most relevant and industry-recognized ones. Arrange them based on their relevance to the job at hand.

• Cum Laude on Resume
• Continuing Education on Resume

Start your resume with a strong summary or objective to grab the recruiter's attention.

• Use a resume objective if you're newer to the field. Share your career dreams and strengths.
• Opt for a resume summary if you have more experience. Highlight up to five of your top achievements.

Tailor your summary or objective for each job. Think about what the recruiter wants to see.

Resume summary and objective examples for a self employed business owner resume

• With 10 years of successful entrepreneurship in the culinary industry, I bring unparalleled passion for crafting unique dining experiences. My technical skills in restaurant management and financial planning have led to consistent revenue growth. Notably, I increased customer retention by 30% within my first year of business operation.
• As a seasoned construction business owner with over 15 years of experience, I've honed my skills in project management, budgeting, and client relations. A testament to my success is the sustained 20% year-over-year growth of my business, achieved through strategic planning and effective team leadership.
• With a 7-year career as a Software Engineer and a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship, I'm looking to apply my skills in a new direction. My background in tech combined with excellent leadership abilities will ensure a seamless transition into a business owner role.
• After 12 years as an accomplished Corporate Lawyer, I'm ready for a career shift into business ownership. My expertise in negotiation, contract law, and relationship management will be instrumental in driving business growth and achieving operational efficiency.
• Eager to combine my newly-acquired MBA degree with my innate leadership skills to establish a start-up in the fitness sector. I am confident that my strong organizational skills coupled with a knack for strategic planning can lead to significant growth and sustainability.
• Passionate about sustainable fashion, I aspire to leverage my recent degree in Environmental Science and Business Administration to launch a clothing brand focused on eco-friendly practices. Aim to utilize my strong project management skills and commitment to ethical sourcing in building a successful business.

Apart from the standard sections listed in this guide, you have the opportunity to get creative when building your profile.

Select additional resume sections that you deem align with the role, the department, or the company culture.

Here are the ones we recommend:

• Language skills - use a profficiency framework to indicate your aptitude level;
• Hobbies and interests - you can share more about your favorite books or how you spend your time. It's great for culture alignment;
• Volunteering - helps you highlight the causes you care about and hints at people skills you gained such as teamwork, emotional intelligence, and organizational skills;
• Awards - the space for your most prominent self employed business owner professional accolades and achievements.

Make sure that these sections don't take too much away from your experience, but instead build up your self employed business owner professional profile. You can add them as a second column to your resume, or on a second page.

• Craft a self employed business owner resume that's easy to read and aligns with the role's requirements.
• The top third of your resume should clearly convey your unique value proposition for the self employed business owner role.
• Tailor your resume to the job, highlighting skills, achievements, and the tangible results of your efforts.
• Detail your certifications and technical skills to demonstrate proficiency with specific tools and technologies.
• The sections you choose should collectively present a comprehensive view of your professional expertise and personality.

Looking to build your own Self Employed Business Owner resume?

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Business Owner Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

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How To Write a Business Owner Resume

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Business Owner Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Nick Jameson (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, New York, NY 12345

A results-driven business owner specializing in operations management, marketing, strategy development, and team leadership. A proven track record of developing business plans and building relationships with clients to grow the customer base. Adept at identifying opportunities to increase market share.

Professional Experience

Business Owner, Jameson Writing Service Inc., New York, NY September 2019 – Present

• Build, manage, and operate an online boutique business providing professional writing services to individuals and small business clients, including blog posts, web pages, resume writing services, bio pages, and LinkedIn profiles
• Develop the business model, secure website domain, and coordinate with two web developers to create the website, product pages, and online shopping cart
• Build long-term relationships with clients, deliver consultations on services based on customer needs, and close over $250K in annual revenue
• Manage, hire, and develop a team of freelancers to deliver writing services to customers, which includes performing quality assurance reviews on deliverables

Freelance Business Consultant, Self-Employed, New York, NY May 2018 – September 2019

• Provided business consulting services to small businesses within the greater New York area, which included analyzing business operations and providing recommendations to reduce overhead costs and improve gross margins
• Attended meetings with clients to review financial records and operating procedures, and identified appropriate business solutions based on cash flow and long-term objectives

Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) Columbia University, New York, NY September 2014 – May 2018

• Business Development
• Operations Management
• Client Relations
• Entrepreneurship
• Business Process Improvement

Maria Lopez (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, Austin, TX 12345

An entrepreneur and business owner with five years of experience specializing in business development, marketing strategy, client relations, and strategic planning. A proven track record of building successful businesses from the ground up and defining growth strategies. Adept at identifying opportunities to enhance market penetration and brand recognition.

Business Owner, Lopez Marketing Inc., Austin, TX September 2017 – Present

• Manage, own, and operate a marketing consulting company generating over $650K in gross annual revenue, which includes defining the business model and delivering marketing services to enhance social media and brand messaging for customers
• Hire, develop, and manage a team of marketing professionals, graphic designers, and social media specialists to grow brand awareness for new products and start-ups
• Interface with C-level executives and client stakeholders to assess marketing needs, define brand messaging, and ensure alignment of services with business objectives
• Lead social media and email marketing campaigns to drive new business development, resulting in a 30% increase in sales from 2018 to 2019

Marketing Consultant, Self-employed, Austin, TX May 2016  – September 2017

• Served as a freelance marketing consultant for small and medium-sized business clients, which included evaluating marketing and social media presence and developing strategies to improve brand exposure and marketing performance
• Provided consultative services for the build out of company websites, which included creating content for product pages and defining the visual design of the site

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Marketing Texas A&M University, College Station, TX September 2012 – May 2016

• Business Management
• Marketing Strategy
• Social Media Marketing
• Team Management
• Business Modeling
• Growth Marketing

Akira Sato (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, San Francisco, CA 12345

A senior business owner with 10+ years of experience specializing in entrepreneurship, venture capital investors, new business development, and talent acquisition. A proven track record of building and developing multi-million-dollar businesses within the technology industry. A strong history of defining business strategies and driving innovation to disrupt stagnant markets.

Business Owner, Bay Area Software Partners Inc., San Francisco, CA September 2011 – Present

• Build, manage, and develop a startup technology company delivering innovative SaaS solutions to enterprise businesses, which includes securing over $1.5M from angel investors and providing presentations on the product and overarching business model
• Secure new business with multinational enterprise customers and attend meetings with C-level executives, resulting in over $15M in gross annual revenue for 2020
• Identify opportunities to improve gross margins by 10% through selecting ideal vendors and negotiating optimal pricing
• Manage, hire, and build a team of marketing professionals, software developers, and sales executives to develop and deploy SaaS solutions for client accounts
• Create financial presentations on business performance for annual shareholder meetings and define overarching business strategy
• Define marketing strategy to secure new business and drive brand awareness

Master of Business Administration (M.A.) University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA May 2011 – May 2013

Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA September 2007 – May 2011

• New Business Development
• Strategy Development
• Investor Relations
• Cross-functional Leadership

Whether it’s to obtain new customers or pursue a career as a manager for a new company, building an accomplishment-driven resume will be vital to your success as a business owner. We’ll help you translate your experience — from business development and team leadership to creating marketing strategies and more — into a powerful marketing document.

1. Create a profile by summarizing your business owner qualifications

To generate interviews, craft a profile that captures the most compelling aspects of your career as a business owner. Create a narrative that illustrates your unique experiences, achievements, and industry expertise. Always tailor your summary to the need at hand. For example, an experienced entrepreneur seeking investment support might list past successes with other businesses. And a business owner hoping to speak at a conference should demonstrate what makes their journey interesting to the audience.

Senior-Level Profile Example

A senior business owner with over 10 years of experience specializing in entrepreneurship, venture capital investors, new business development, and talent acquisition. Proven track record of building and developing multi-million-dollar businesses within the technology industry. A strong history of defining business strategies and driving innovation to disrupt stagnant markets.

Entry-Level Profile Example

A results-driven business owner specializing in operations management, marketing, strategy development, and team leadership. Proven track record of developing business plans and building relationships with clients to grow the customer base. Adept at identifying opportunities to increase market share.

2. Create a powerful list of your business owner experience

Your professional experience section may include work you did for other organizations before launching your company. It should also include active, metric-based information about your tenure as a business owner. Tell a story about your capability, knowledge, and experience that aligns with your goal. Feature the results if you’ve led initiatives to drive revenue growth or sales. Incorporate key performance indicators (KPIs) and monetary figures to create a sense of scope for your achievements if you successfully built and scaled a business.

It’s also important to prioritize information most relevant to your current business objectives. For example, if you’re seeking venture capital funding for a startup, highlight your vision for the company and your experience bringing innovative business ideas into reality. But if you’re seeking a new job after owning a business, you may want to focus on relevant business skills and accomplishments that demonstrate what you can do for your new employer.

Senior-Level Professional Experience Example

Business Owner

Bay Area Software Partners Inc., San Francisco, CA | September 2011 – present

• Build, manage, and develop a start-up technology company delivering innovative Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions to enterprise businesses, which includes securing over $1.5 million from angel investors and providing presentations on the product and overarching business model.
• Secure new business with multinational enterprise customers and attend meetings with C-level executives, resulting in over $15 million in gross annual revenue for 2020
• Identify opportunities to improve gross margins by 10% by selecting ideal vendors and negotiating optimal pricing

Entry-Level Professional Experience Example

Jameson Writing Service Inc., New York, NY | September 2019 – present

• Develop the business model, secure website domain, and coordinate with two web designers to create the website, product pages, and online shopping cart
• Build long-term relationships with clients, deliver consultations on services based on customer needs, and close over $250,000 in annual revenue

3. List any education and certifications relevant to business owners

Often, the success of your start-up or other business endeavors is the only credential you need to impress investors, land speaking gigs, or even get a different job. Not all business owners have degrees, and that’s okay.

But if you do have a bachelor’s, master’s, or any specialty certificates, create a bulleted list for your resume that details these credentials. When your resume stacks up against others, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration or a certificate in project management can help you stand out.

• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] – [Graduation Month and Year]
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Marketing
• Texas A&M University, College Station, TX – May 2016

Certifications

• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization] – [Completion Year]
• Project Management Professional, Project Management Institute – 2019

4. List key skills and proficiencies for business owners

It’s critical to include relevant key phrases that help your audience scan your resume and ensure compliance with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Consider what might be most important to the person reviewing your resume, and include key skills relevant to their needs or goals. Ensure these proficiencies actually match your experience, though. It’s best not to oversell or set false expectations for your skill set. Some common key skills for business owners include:

How To Pick the Best Business Owner Resume Template

Reduce the work in creating a business owner resume by starting with a template. Choose a simple template that ensures the reader’s attention is on the details of your story. Although flashy colors and graphics may be visually appealing, they can often have the opposite effect. If your template is too reliant on visual elements, it may distract the reader from your qualifications and achievements. Stick with a traditional, straightforward template that keeps your audience engaged with your content.

Frequently Asked Questions: Business Owner Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for business owner resumes -.

As a business owner, you play an active role in the success of your organization. Ensure your resume conveys that by including action verbs demonstrating ways you’re critical to running your business. Start bullet points and sentences with action verbs to better engage your audience and make it clear you’re willing to do the work to make your dreams a reality. Use the most relevant words possible — you can get some inspiration from the list below:

How do you align your resume with a business owner job description? -

As a business owner, you may not be applying for a traditional job. But you can still align your resume with the opportunity at hand to increase your chances of success. Start by researching what is important to the decision-makers for the opportunity.

For example, if you’re seeking an investor, read up on past investments by the firm. If you find trends, you can align your resume to speak to those patterns. And if you are looking for a new job, include key phrases from the job posting in your resume and speak to the desires of the hiring organization in your profile summary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, business and financial opportunities are growing at a rate of around 7% . You can increase your chances of landing an opportunity by correctly tweaking your resume.

What is the best business owner resume format? -

Most business owners may opt for the reverse-chronological resume format. This format puts your current work in the top third of your resume, ensuring it gets the most attention but letting you tell a story about your history in the business.

However, suppose you’re angling for a speaking gig or want to demonstrate your vision and values to an investor. In that case, you may want a combination format that shines an equal light on your skills and unique qualifications.

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Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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• Business Owner Resume Example

Resume Examples

• Common Tasks & Responsibilities
• Top Hard & Soft Skills
• Action Verbs & Keywords
• Resume FAQs
• Similar Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Business Owner Resumes:

• Developing and refining the business strategy, including setting long-term goals, growth plans, and competitive positioning.
• Overseeing financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and ensuring the company maintains a positive cash flow and profitability.
• Building and maintaining relationships with key partners, suppliers, and clients to support business operations and expansion.
• Leading marketing efforts to establish brand presence, identify target markets, and create strategies to reach and engage customers.
• Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and staying updated on laws that may affect the business operations.
• Recruiting, training, and managing staff, and creating a company culture that attracts and retains top talent.
• Directing product or service development to ensure offerings meet customer needs and are competitive in the market.
• Implementing and overseeing the use of technology and information systems to improve efficiency and enable data-driven decision-making.
• Conducting regular competitive analysis to understand market trends and adjust business strategies accordingly.
• Managing risks by identifying potential threats to the business and developing contingency plans.
• Engaging in networking and community events to promote the business and forge strategic partnerships.
• Reviewing and analyzing business performance metrics to gauge success and identify areas for improvement.

Speed up your resume creation process with the AI-Powered Resume Builder . Generate tailored achievements in seconds for every role you apply to.

Business Owner Resume Example:

• Orchestrated a strategic overhaul of the business model, leading to a 35% increase in revenue and a 25% market share growth within two years through targeted marketing campaigns and expansion of service offerings.
• Implemented a comprehensive financial management system that improved cash flow by 40% and sustained profitability, even during economic downturns, by meticulous budgeting and cost-control measures.
• Developed and maintained robust partnerships with key suppliers and clients, resulting in a 50% increase in client retention and a 30% reduction in supply chain costs through negotiated contracts.
• Directed a company-wide digital transformation initiative, integrating advanced CRM and data analytics tools that enhanced operational efficiency by 45% and enabled a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Conducted a competitive analysis leading to a strategic pivot, which introduced two new high-demand product lines, capturing an untapped customer segment and increasing overall sales by 20%.
• Championed a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, fostering a team environment that led to the development of a proprietary process, reducing service delivery times by 30% and enhancing customer satisfaction scores by 40%.
• Launched a targeted marketing strategy that established a strong brand presence in a crowded market, achieving a 150% increase in brand recognition and a 60% boost in customer engagement through social media and content marketing.
• Recruited and developed a high-performing team of 25 employees, with a focus on leadership and skill development, resulting in a 90% employee retention rate and the promotion of 5 team members to managerial positions within 18 months.
• Proactively managed business risks by instituting a comprehensive risk assessment framework, which mitigated potential threats and safeguarded the company's assets, contributing to a sustained annual growth rate of 15%.
• Strategic Business Planning
• Financial Management & Budgeting
• Marketing and Brand Development
• Revenue Growth and Profit Maximization
• Market Analysis and Competitive Strategy
• Supply Chain Management
• Client Relationship Management
• Team Leadership and Development
• Operational Efficiency Improvement
• Data Analytics and CRM Integration
• Innovation and Process Improvement
• Risk Management and Mitigation
• Negotiation and Contract Management
• Digital Transformation Leadership
• Change Management
• Customer Service Excellence
• Project Management
• Decision Making Based on Data
• Employee Retention Strategies
• Adaptability to Economic Fluctuations

Top Skills & Keywords for Business Owner Resumes:

Hard skills.

• Financial Management
• Strategic Planning
• Business Development
• Marketing Strategy
• Operations Management
• Sales Management
• Risk Management
• Human Resources Management
• Budgeting and Forecasting
• Contract Negotiation
• Data Analysis and Reporting

Soft Skills

• Leadership and Team Management
• Communication and Presentation Skills
• Strategic Planning and Decision Making
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Financial Management and Budgeting
• Networking and Relationship Building
• Innovation and Creativity
• Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Customer Focus and Relationship Management
• Emotional Intelligence and Empathy

Resume Action Verbs for Business Owners:

• Strategized
• Implemented
• Collaborated
• Streamlined
• Established

A Better Way to Build Your Resume

Resume FAQs for Business Owners:

How long should i make my business owner resume, what is the best way to format a business owner resume, which keywords are important to highlight in a business owner resume, how should i write my resume if i have no experience as a business owner, compare your business owner resume to a job description:.

• Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Business Owner job
• Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
• Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Complete the steps below to generate your free resume analysis.

Related Resumes for Business Owners:

Ecommerce business owner, small business consultant, small business manager, small business owner, management consultant, strategy consultant, consulting manager.

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Small Business Owner Resume Examples: Proven To Get You Hired In 2024

Jump to a template:

• Small Business Owner
• Entrepreneur
• Start-Up Founder
• Business Operator
• Sole Trader

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Jump to a resource:

• Small Business Owner Resume Tips

Small Business Owner Resume Template

Download in google doc, word or pdf for free. designed to pass resume screening software in 2022., small business owner resume sample.

A small business owner creates a company that solves a specific need in a local community. Their responsibility is to direct, administer, and manage their business to meet their financial and operational goals. They should have an excellent eye to spot opportunities and risks. Therefore, you can include risk management skills on your resume.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Recruiter Insight: Why this resume works in 2022

Tips to help you write your small business owner resume in 2024,    demonstrate deep knowledge of your industry..

It is important to demonstrate your expertise in your field in your resume. This will help investors and banks know that you have business acumen and understand how to overcome issues in your industry.

   Indicate your inventory management skills.

Inventory management is an essential skill to have in the retail industry. Having an optimized inventory increases efficiency in your operations and customer satisfaction. This way there are no issues related to missing items, and your business can provide a better service.

Entrepreneur Resume Sample

Start-up founder resume sample, business operator resume sample, sole trader resume sample.

As a hiring manager who has recruited for small business roles at companies like local restaurants, retail shops, and service-based businesses, I've seen firsthand what makes a strong resume for a small business owner. The following tips will help you create a compelling resume that showcases your entrepreneurial skills and experience.

   Highlight your business achievements

Emphasize the successes and milestones you achieved as a small business owner:

• Grew revenue from $50,000 to $500,000 within 2 years of launching the business
• Expanded customer base from 10 to 100+ clients, with a 95% retention rate
• Implemented new service offerings, increasing average order value by 30%

Quantifying your achievements with numbers and percentages helps demonstrate the impact you made on your business.

   Showcase your leadership and management skills

Running a small business requires strong leadership and management abilities. Highlight examples of how you:

• Built and led a team of 15 employees, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment
• Developed and implemented standard operating procedures, improving efficiency by 20%
• Managed relationships with key suppliers and partners, negotiating contracts to reduce costs by 15%

These examples show your ability to lead people, streamline operations, and manage important business relationships.

   Include relevant education and certifications

While formal education may not always be necessary for small business owners, including relevant coursework or certifications can strengthen your resume:

• Completed a Small Business Management certificate program at a local community college
• Earned a Food Handler's License and ServSafe Certification for managing a restaurant
• Participated in a workshop on Digital Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses

Highlighting your ongoing learning and development shows a commitment to staying current in your industry.

   Demonstrate your adaptability and problem-solving skills

Small business owners often wear many hats and face various challenges. Show how you adapted and solved problems:

• Pivoted business model during the pandemic, transitioning from in-person to online sales, maintaining 80% of revenue
• Developed a creative marketing campaign on a limited budget, increasing brand awareness and attracting 50+ new customers
• Resolved a supplier issue that threatened to delay a major project, ensuring on-time delivery for the client

These examples demonstrate your resilience, creativity, and ability to overcome obstacles.

   Tailor your resume to your target audience

When applying for a job or seeking new opportunities, tailor your resume to highlight the most relevant aspects of your small business experience:

• If applying for a role in your industry, emphasize your industry-specific knowledge and network
• If transitioning to a different field, focus on transferable skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving

Experienced entrepreneur with a proven track record of building and scaling successful small businesses. Skilled in developing growth strategies, managing high-performing teams, and fostering strong customer relationships. Seeking to leverage my entrepreneurial experience in a business development role at a growing tech startup.

Adapting your resume to your target audience helps them quickly see how your small business experience is relevant and valuable to their needs.

   Highlight your unique value proposition

As a small business owner, you likely have a unique combination of skills and experiences that set you apart. Use your resume to highlight your unique value proposition:

• Combines 10+ years of industry experience with a passion for innovation and sustainability
• Brings a data-driven approach to decision making, using analytics to optimize operations and drive growth
• Known for building strong, long-lasting relationships with clients, partners, and employees

By emphasizing what makes you unique, you give potential employers a compelling reason to choose you over other candidates.

Writing Your Small Business Owner Resume: Section By Section

  summary.

While a resume summary is optional, it can be a powerful tool for small business owners to provide context and highlight their most relevant skills and experiences. As a small business owner, your resume should showcase your entrepreneurial spirit, leadership abilities, and the impact you've made in your ventures. A well-crafted summary can give hiring managers a quick snapshot of your value proposition and entice them to read further.

However, it's crucial to avoid using an objective statement, as they are outdated and fail to showcase your unique qualifications. Instead, focus on crafting a compelling summary that aligns with your target job and emphasizes your most impressive achievements.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Small Business Owner resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Small Business Owner Resume Summary Examples , or Small Business Owner Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight entrepreneurial skills and business impact

When writing your summary, focus on showcasing your entrepreneurial skills and the impact you've made as a small business owner. Consider including details such as:

• Key achievements in growing your business
• Successful projects or initiatives you led
• Skills that demonstrate your leadership and problem-solving abilities

For example, instead of a generic summary like this:

Experienced small business owner with a proven track record of success. Skilled in leadership, communication, and problem-solving. Seeking new opportunities to apply my expertise.

Try a more specific and impactful summary:

Entrepreneurial small business owner with 8+ years of experience leading a successful e-commerce venture. Grew revenue by 150% and expanded customer base to 50K+ through innovative marketing strategies and streamlined operations. Seeking to leverage my expertise in business growth and digital marketing to drive results in a dynamic organization.

2. Tailor your summary to your target role

While it's essential to showcase your entrepreneurial background, it's equally important to tailor your summary to the specific role you're targeting. Research the job description and company to identify the key skills and experiences they are looking for, and incorporate them into your summary.

For instance, if you're applying for a marketing position, emphasize your success in developing and executing marketing strategies for your small business:

Data-driven small business owner with a strong background in marketing and e-commerce. Implemented SEO and PPC campaigns that increased website traffic by 200% and generated $500K+ in annual revenue. Seeking to apply my digital marketing expertise and entrepreneurial mindset to drive growth in a dynamic marketing role.

On the other hand, if you're targeting an operations role, focus on your experience in streamlining processes and managing teams:

Efficient small business owner with 6+ years of experience managing day-to-day operations and leading cross-functional teams. Implemented lean manufacturing principles that reduced production costs by 25% and improved overall efficiency. Aiming to leverage my operations management expertise and continuous improvement mindset in a challenging operations role.

  Experience

The work experience section is the heart of your resume. It's where you show the impact you've made as a small business owner. Use this section to highlight your biggest wins and accomplishments. Be specific and use numbers to quantify your results.

Here are some tips to make your work experience section stand out:

1. Highlight business growth and revenue

Recruiters want to see the impact you've had on your business. Did you grow revenue, expand to new markets, or launch successful products? Use hard numbers to show the results you achieved.

Compare these two examples:

• Responsible for sales and marketing
• Managed day-to-day operations of the business

Instead, quantify your accomplishments like this:

• Grew revenue from $50K to $1.2M in 2 years by expanding into 3 new markets
• Launched 2 new product lines resulting in a 75% increase in sales

The second examples provide concrete details that demonstrate your abilities as a business owner.

2. Show off your leadership skills

As a small business owner, leadership is one of your most valuable assets. Showcase how you've led your team to success.

Weak example:

• Hired and managed a team of employees

Strong examples:

• Built and led a team of 15 that consistently exceeded sales targets by 20%
• Implemented an employee training program that reduced turnover by 30%

Use strong leadership action verbs like:

• Orchestrated
• Spearheaded

3. Highlight relevant business skills and tools

Running a small business requires wearing many hats. Showcase the breadth of your skills, from finance and operations to marketing and sales. Also mention key tools you've used to run your business.

• Implemented Quickbooks and reduced bookkeeping time by 20 hours per month
• Used Google Ads and Facebook marketing to generate 250+ monthly leads
• Negotiated vendor contracts to reduce COGS by 15%

Proficient in Quickbooks, Google Analytics, Salesforce, Facebook Ads Manager, and Microsoft Office. Skilled in financial forecasting, digital marketing, vendor management, and sales presentations.

4. Demonstrate business acumen and strategic thinking

Employers want to know that you can think strategically and make smart business decisions. Share examples of strategic moves that paid off.

For example:

• Identified an untapped market opportunity and launched a new product line, capturing 35% market share within the first year
• Restructured business operations to optimize efficiency, resulting in a 20% reduction in expenses and a 15% increase in profits

Show that you have a keen business sense and the ability to analyze data, spot trends, and pivot when needed. Use strong strategic action verbs like:

  Education

The education section of your small business owner resume should be concise and relevant to your current career goals. While it may not be the most important section of your resume, it still plays a crucial role in showcasing your qualifications and expertise. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling education section:

1. Highlight relevant coursework and projects

If you're a recent graduate or your education is directly related to your small business, consider highlighting relevant coursework and projects. This can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills in your field.

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, XYZ University, Graduated 2020
• Relevant Coursework: Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Financial Management
• Capstone Project: Developed a comprehensive business plan for a startup, resulting in a top 5% grade

2. Keep it short and sweet for experienced professionals

If you have extensive work experience as a small business owner, your education section should be brief. Include only the essential information, such as your degree, university, and graduation year.

• Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, ABC University, Graduated 1995
• Relevant Coursework: Creative Writing, British Literature, American Literature
• GPA: 3.8/4.0

Instead, use:

Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, ABC University

3. Include relevant certifications and training

As a small business owner, you may have completed certifications or training programs that are relevant to your industry. Include these in your education section to showcase your expertise and commitment to professional development.

• Certificate in Digital Marketing, Online Marketing Institute, 2021
• Small Business Management Training, Small Business Administration, 2019

  Skills

The skills section of your resume is where you showcase your most relevant abilities and expertise to potential employers. As a small business owner, it's crucial to highlight the skills that demonstrate your ability to manage and grow a successful business. In this section, we'll guide you through the process of crafting a compelling skills section that will catch the attention of hiring managers and help you stand out from the competition.

1. Identify your core small business skills

Start by brainstorming the skills that are most relevant to your experience as a small business owner. Consider the key responsibilities and challenges you faced while running your business. Some examples of core skills for small business owners include:

• Business management : Strategic planning, financial management, operations management
• Leadership : Team building, delegation, decision-making
• Marketing and sales : Market research, branding, customer acquisition
• Technology : E-commerce, social media, data analysis

By grouping your skills into categories, you make it easier for hiring managers to quickly identify your areas of expertise.

Remember to tailor your skills section to the specific job you're applying for. Review the job description and prioritize the skills that are most relevant to the position.

2. Avoid generic or outdated skills

When listing your skills, it's important to be specific and avoid generic or outdated terms. For example, instead of simply stating "computer skills," list the specific software and tools you're proficient in, such as:

QuickBooks Salesforce CRM Google Analytics

On the other hand, including outdated or irrelevant skills can make your resume appear out of touch. Here's an example of what not to do:

MS-DOS Typewriting Faxing

Using a tool like Score My Resume can help you identify any outdated or generic skills in your resume and provide suggestions for improvement.

3. Showcase your industry-specific expertise

As a small business owner, you likely have a deep understanding of your industry and its unique challenges. Highlight any industry-specific skills or certifications that demonstrate your expertise. For example:

• Retail : Inventory management, visual merchandising, POS systems
• Construction : Project management, building codes, safety regulations
• Healthcare : HIPAA compliance, medical billing, patient care

By showcasing your industry-specific skills, you demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in your field.

Consider including any relevant industry associations or professional organizations you belong to, as these can further emphasize your commitment to your field.

4. Optimize for applicant tracking systems

Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes for relevant keywords before a human ever sees them. To ensure your resume makes it past these automated filters, it's essential to include the right skills and keywords in your skills section.

Review the job description carefully and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Incorporate these terms naturally into your skills section, using the exact phrasing when possible. For example, if the job description mentions "project management," include that term verbatim in your skills list.

Tools like Targeted Resume can help you optimize your resume for ATS by comparing your skills section to the job description and suggesting relevant keywords to include.

Skills For Small Business Owner Resumes

Here are examples of popular skills from Small Business Owner job descriptions that you can include on your resume.

• Social Media
• Merchandising
• Inventory Management
• Social Media Marketing
• Customer Service
• Small Business

Skills Word Cloud For Small Business Owner Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Small Business Owner job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more likely you should include it in your resume.

How to use these skills?

Similar resume templates, business analyst.

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Resume Guide: Detailed Insights From Recruiters

• Business Owner Resume Guide & Examples for 2022

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•  Get a resume score compared to other Small Business Owner resumes in your industry.

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•  Find the Small Business Owner skills your resume is missing.

•  Get rid of hidden red flags the hiring managers and resume screeners look for.

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Small Business Owner Resumes

• Template #1: Small Business Owner
• Template #2: Small Business Owner
• Template #3: Entrepreneur
• Template #4: Start-Up Founder
• Template #5: Business Operator
• Template #6: Sole Trader
• Skills for Small Business Owner Resumes
• Free Small Business Owner Resume Review
• Other Other Resumes
• Small Business Owner Interview Guide
• Small Business Owner Sample Cover Letters
• Alternative Careers to a Store Owner
• All Resumes
• Resume Action Verbs

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• Small Business Owner

5 Amazing small business owner Resume Examples (Updated 2023) + Skills & Job Descriptions

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Small business owner: resume samples & writing guide, professional summary, employment history.

• Monitor cash flow, accounts payable and receivable
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations
• Manage day-to-day operations of the business
• Develop and implement policies and procedures
• Develop and nurture relationships with customers and suppliers
• Develop business strategies to achieve organizational objectives
• Analyze market trends and competition

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• Identify and assess potential business opportunities
• Prepare reports and presentations
• Monitor and analyze performance metrics and suggest improvements
• Negotiate and manage contracts
• Prepare and manage operational budgets
• Monitor and review business activities and performance metrics
• Recruit, train and manage staff
• Develop marketing and promotional strategies

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Table of Content

• Introduction
• Resume Samples & Writing Guide
• Resume Example 1
• Resume Example 2
• Resume Example 3
• Resume Example 4
• Resume Example 5
• Jobs Description
• Jobs Skills
• Technical Skills
• Soft Skills
• How to Improve Your Resume
• How to Optimize Your Resume
• Cover Letter Example

small business owner Job Descriptions; Explained

If you're applying for an small business owner position, it's important to tailor your resume to the specific job requirements in order to differentiate yourself from other candidates. Including accurate and relevant information that directly aligns with the job description can greatly increase your chances of securing an interview with potential employers. When crafting your resume, be sure to use action verbs and a clear, concise format to highlight your relevant skills and experience. Remember, the job description is your first opportunity to make an impression on recruiters, so pay close attention to the details and make sure you're presenting yourself in the best possible light.

small business owner

• Decide pricing based on value and compensation.
• Design promotional posts for Instagram (@nailtalelacquer).
• Manage a business through Etsy.
• Package and distribute items to customers.
• Keep track of finances.
• Create a product (nail polish) using specific measurements.
• Evaluated suppliers to asses quality, timeless and compliance of deliveries, maintaining cost controls and maximizing business operational efficiency.
• Maintained team efficiency by delegating daily activities, monitoring output and rewarding positive contributions.
• Devised, Deployed and Monitored processes to boost long term business success with optimal sales and profit levels.
• Developed exceptional attendance record with special attention to punctuality and preparations to work upon arrival.
• Effectively controlled the release of proprietary and confidential information for general client list.
• Started a subscription based business
• Achieved consistent revenue stream
• Averaged 30 subscriptions a month
• Established a pool of 920 potential customers
• Consistently interact with 15 potential customers
• Over 16,000 hours of interactions with customers in the last year

small business owner Job Skills

For an small business owner position, your job skills are a key factor in demonstrating your value to the company and showing recruiters that you're the ight fit for the role. It's important to be specific when highlighting your skills and ensure that they are directly aligned with the job requirements, as this can greatly improve your chances of being hired. By showcasing your relevant skills and experience, you can make a compelling case for why you're the best candidate for the job.

How to include technical skills in your resume:

Technical skills are a set of specialized abilities and knowledge required to perform a particular job effectively. Some examples of technical skills are data analysis, project management, software proficiency, and programming languages, to name a few. Add the technical skills that will get hired in your career field with our simple-to-use resume builder. Select your desired resume template, once you reach the skills section of the builder, manually write in the skill or simply click on "Add more skills". This will automatically generate the best skills for your career field, choose your skill level, and hit "Save & Next."

• Data Analysis
• Project Management
• Customer Service
• Presentation
• Written Communication
• Social Media
• Troubleshooting
• Quality Assurance
• Supervisory
• Risk Management
• Database Management
• Financial Management
• Visualization
• Business Acumen
• Process Improvement
• Relationship Management

How to include soft skills in your resume:

Soft skills are non-technical skills that relate to how you work and that can be used in any job. Including soft skills such as time management, creative thinking, teamwork, and conflict resolution demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and show that you navigate challenges and changes in the workplace efficiently. Add competitive soft skills to make your resume stand-out to recruiters! Simply select your preferred resume template in the skills section, enter the skills manually or use the "Add more skills" option. Our resume builder will generate the most relevant soft skills for your career path. Choose your proficiency level for each skill, and then click "Save & Next" to proceed to the next section.

• Communication
• Interpersonal
• Time Management
• Problem Solving
• Decision Making
• Critical Thinking
• Adaptability
• Organization
• Public Speaking
• Negotiation
• Conflict Resolution
• Attention to Detail
• Self-Motivation
• Stress Management
• Collaboration
• Strategic Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Flexibility
• Reliability
• Professionalism
• Computer Literacy
• Documentation
• Relationship Management.

How to Improve Your small business owner Resume

Navigating resume pitfalls can mean the difference between landing an interview or not. Missing job descriptions or unexplained work history gaps can cause recruiters to hesitate. Let's not even talk about the impact of bad grammar, and forgetting your contact info could leave your potential employer hanging. Aim to be comprehensive, concise, and accurate.

Provide your Contact Information and Address Year Gaps

Always explain any gaps in your work history to your advantage..

• Employers want to know what you've accomplished, so make sure to explain any gaps using a professional summary.
• Adding extra details and context to explain why you have a gap in your work history shows employers you are a good fit for the position.

How to Optimize Your small business owner Resume

Keep an eye out for these resume traps. Neglecting to detail your job roles or explain gaps in your career can lead to unnecessary doubts. Grammar blunders can reflect negatively on you, and without contact information, how can employers reach you? Be meticulous and complete.

• Manage day-to-day operations of the bussiness
• Identify and assess potential bussiness opportunities
• Negotiate and manage contract's
• Prepear and manag operational budgets
• Recruit, trainn and manag staff
• Analyse market trends and competion.
• "I went to the store to buy bread and milk
• I went too the store to buy bread an milk.

Include Job Descriptions and Avoid Bad Grammar

Avoid sending a wrong first impression by proofreading your resume..

• Spelling and typos are the most common mistakes recruiters see in resumes and by simply avoiding them you can move ahead on the hiring process.
• Before submitting your resume, double check to avoid typos.

small business owner Cover Letter Example

A cover letter can be a valuable addition to your job application when applying for an small business owner position. Cover letters provide a concise summary of your qualifications, skills, and experience, also it also gives you an opportunity to explain why you're the best fit for the job. Crafting a cover letter that showcases your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the Accounts Payable role can significantly improve your chances of securing an interview.

Dear Hiring Committee

I am writing to express my interest in the Senior Small Business Owner role at KPMG. As a Small Business Owner with 13 years of experience, I am confident that I possess the necessary skills and qualifications to excel in this position.

Throughout my life, I have been passionate about Business Analysis and have pursued opportunities to make a difference in this field. My experience in various areas, not just in Business Management, has given me the opportunity to develop my skills in Planning and Presentation, which I am excited to apply to the role at KPMG. I am eager to work with a team that shares my values and to help your organization achieve its well determined goals.

I appreciate the opportunity to apply for the Senior Small Business Owner position. I am committed to making a positive impact on the world, so I am thrilled about the opportunity to join your team and work towards achieving our shared goals for the betterment of everyone.

Showcase your most significant accomplishments and qualifications with this cover letter. Personalize this cover letter in just few minutes with our user-friendly tool!

Related Resumes & Cover Letters

Contemporary

Professional

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Business owner.

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Creative and motivated Executive with experience in overseeing daily business activities and improving overall business functions. Strong decision maker and excellent client relationship builder. Proven capacity to multi-task and utilize time management and conflict resolution skills to increase efficiencies. Positive attitude with proven leadership skills and the ability to develop successful team environments

CMT Stores Inc Business Owner/Business Partner, GM, VP May 2015 Present

Oversaw all operations of a convenience store chain (4-5 stores). Managed over 60 employees and performed HR responsibilities to include working closely with Store Managers. Liable for all accounting for office, including all large account electronic transfers. Controlled all purchasing within the company (all tobacco, grocery, and food items).

• Operated multi-million-dollar convenience store chain, increasing productivity and profits during that time, and overall sales by over 21.3% and gross profit by over 3.5%
• Served as head Merchandiser for all stores, working closely with many companies to ensure each store was laid out and organized for maximum profit
• Converted one store to a “lottery store”, ranking in the top 10 in the state for the Hoosier Lottery
• Created a successful food program at 2 locations, eclipsing what was forecasted
• Established rapport with all vendors and employees, creating a comfortable environment
• Bought and sold many convenience stores throughout the years, taking a number of very poor stores and creating lucrative locations, resulting in large profits when a store was sold
• Moved entire company to an automated state by utilizing a paperless process, increasing productivity and efficiency in back-office and enabling managers to have more quality time on sales floor

School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN Bachelor of Management Mar 2011 Feb 2015

Areas of expertise, operations support your professional experience with skills, that are required by or relevant to the employer., facility manager, training & staff development, p&l management, negotiations, strategic planning, contracts & permits, vendor management, business owner’s resume tips.

Have you been a private practice owner and decided to return to employment instead?

Through your self-employment history, you’ll have developed business acumen, bookkeeping skills, financial knowledge, industry expertise, the ability to market a business, and you’ll know how to take calculated risks.

When you’ve got the skills needed to be a business owner, these can easily transfer into the workforce and impress an employer.

Here, we’re going to help you learn to write a business owner resume and we’ve got some useful self-employed resume examples.

Top Tips to Write a Business Owner’s Resume Career Summary/Objective

The first step - know which one to use.

A personal summary resume statement will work when you’ve more than two years of experience, business management skills, and wins you can back up with numbers.

Need some professional summary examples?

Check this example for a resume summary:

Alternatively…

You’d use a career objective when you’ve not got a lot of experience that relates to the job you’re applying for.

In this case, focus on your goals and still offer up your achievements to show your skills.

This is a great example of a career objective:

Whichever you choose for your transition from business owner to employee resume, write 3-4 sentences that show what you’ve done and what you can bring to the role.

Browse templates 🔎

Work Experience Section for a Business Owner’s Resume

You’ll have lots of questions about your work experience section, like how to say trained new employees on your resume? How to put family business on a resume?

To help, here’s our example to answer your question, as well as how to put a startup on a resume, if that applies to you.

• Ran and managed a successful online child’s clothing boutique, handling online marketing, sourcing stock, logistics of ordering and delivery, customer care, and hiring staff and freelancers.
• Handled all accounting including accounts receivable and payable, payroll, and credit card settlement.
• Increased account sizes and engagement rates by 300% per year through planned SMM strategies.
• Worked with local college to provide business management internships for students.
• Profits increased 10% per year in the last three years of operation

It’s not about your tasks, it’s about what you can show you achieved.

Looking for help to write your resume work experience section? Not sure where it goes in your CV? Don’t get stressed. Here’s all you need to know and more!

How To Showcase Your Business Owner Skills on a Resume

The skills section of your business professional resume can include your business skills that can transfer into your new workplace.

• Used social media marketing? Include that, such as automation tools like Biteable, Buzzsumo, Hootsuite, Mention, Sumo.
• Add business management tools you used like Zoho, WorkEtc, Adios, 1CRM, or Booker
• Want to know how to list budget experience on resume? Put down the tools you utilised such as Freshbooks, InDinero, Expensify, Floats, SosInventory
• For your HR management, add on ZenPayroll, SpiderGroups, Zenefits, i-Sight, OpenElevator if you used them
• Sales management platforms are also important to note, plus customer relationship management (CRM) tools like Sage, SAP, Oracle, Vanguard, Lotus Notes
• In terms of communication and collaboration tools, list when you’ve got skills with Slack, Trello, Asana, or even Skype.

Show what a great business boss you’ve been by noting your skills from your business owner job:

• Time management
• Decision making
• Business communications
• Creative thinking
• Project management

Make your skills section like this example:

• Managed four social media platforms using Hootsuite and Buzzsumo
• Planned and executed workflows with Trello and Slack
• Managed finances and invoicing through InDinero
• Delivered three change projects utilizing Zoho

And remember that soft skills as much important as hard skills in your resume.

Pro-Tip Use the job description to understand the skills the hiring manager wants. List those skills and abilities on your resume with examples.

Education Section on a Business Owner’s Resume

On a small business owner resume, use your education to your advantage.

Make sure to include:

• University and location
• Degree type
• Awards, honors, relevant coursework, and other achievements

An example:

Writing a Cover Letter for a Business Owner’s Resume

It’s a challenge to write a business owner resume when you used to call yourself the boss, CEO, or President.

Don’t let this get in your way.

Any hiring manager should be highly interested in your skills to run a business.

Grad the recruiter’s attention quickly with a great cover letter.

The HR team will quickly see the value you can add when you explain your owner job description at your last business.

Let’s look at an effective example cover letter :

Your experience as a business owner is valuable so be sure your resume shows that to your next employer, rather than how much you loved your independence.

How do you do this? Here are our tips:

• Show off your business management skills such as accounting and stock control
• Explain what you’ve learned as a business manager and that you can be disciplined and responsible

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Small Business Owner Resume Examples

Writing a resume as a small business owner can be a daunting task. It can be difficult to know where to start and how to showcase your skills in the best possible light. It is important to get the resume right, since it could be the ticket to a successful job search. This guide will provide tips and examples to help small business owners write an effective resume that will make a great first impression. From highlighting your unique qualifications to showcasing your accomplishments, this guide will provide the necessary steps to ensure that your resume stands out from the crowd.

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, be sure to check out our complete library of resume examples .

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Small Business Owner

123 Main Street | Anytown, USA 99999 | Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]

As a small business owner for the past 10 years, I have had the unique opportunity to apply my strong business acumen to a variety of successful enterprises. I have a talent for creating effective business plans, driving revenue growth, and developing innovative marketing strategies to promote products and services. I have experience in a wide range of business operations, from managing multiple staff members to designing accounting systems and managing financials. My extensive knowledge of business and finance make me an ideal candidate for any company looking to grow their business.

Core Skills :

• Business Planning
• Marketing Strategies
• Financial Management
• Staff Management
• Accounting Systems
• Revenue Growth
• Customer Service

Professional Experience :

• Small Business Owner, 2009- Present
• Developed and implemented innovative marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and promote products and services.
• Managed financials, budgets, and accounting systems.
• Hired and managed multiple staff members.
• Developed effective business plans and strategies to drive revenue growth.
• Provided exceptional customer service.

Education :

• Bachelor of Science in Business Management, University of California, 2005
• Certificate in Project Management, University of California, 2007

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Small Business Owner Resume with No Experience

Hardworking and dedicated recent college graduate looking to begin a career in business ownership. With a degree in business management, I am eager to learn and apply my knowledge to become a successful small business owner.

• Proven ability to manage projects and people
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Highly organized and detail- oriented
• Computer savvy with knowledge of Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, and other business software
• Self- motivated and able to work independently
• Interest in learning about new products and services

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract customers
• Manage finances and budget for the business
• Research and analyze industry trends to stay ahead of the competition
• Maintain a positive relationship with customers and vendors
• Negotiate contracts, leases, and other agreements
• Develop a plan to reach and exceed business goals

Experience 0 Years

Level Junior

Education Bachelor’s

Small Business Owner Resume with 2 Years of Experience

To secure a position as a small business owner, utilizing my two years of experience, skills and expertise to contribute to the success of the company.

I have two years of experience as a small business owner. I have a good understanding of how to manage an effective business, and I am confident in my abilities to market, create, and manage products and services. My portfolio contains numerous successful projects and I am well- versed in market research and analysis, customer service, budget management, and business operations. I have excellent communication, organization and problem- solving skills, and I am passionate about helping small businesses to succeed.

• Small Business Ownership
• Market Research and Analysis
• Budget Management
• Business Operations
• Communication
• Organization
• Problem Solving

Responsibilities :

• Developing and implementing business plans, strategies and objectives
• Creating and managing products and services to ensure customer satisfaction
• Performing market research and analysis to evaluate customer preferences
• Managing customer relations and providing customer service
• Overseeing budgeting and financial operations
• Ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards
• Developing and maintaining relationships with suppliers and vendors
• Creating promotional campaigns and advertising materials

Experience 2+ Years

Small Business Owner Resume with 5 Years of Experience

As a small business owner with 5 years of experience, I have a proven record of success in developing and launching successful companies. My core skills include strategic planning, financial management, and marketing. I have a wealth of experience in building relationships with vendors, customers, and other key stakeholders, as well as the ability to manage complex business operations. With my deep knowledge of the industry, I have consistently achieved success and growth for my companies.

• Strategic Planning
• Marketing and Branding
• Business Development
• Vendor and Customer Relations
• Project Management
• Develop company- wide strategies and plans to achieve desired business goals
• Manage financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management
• Create and implement marketing campaigns to establish brand identity
• Lead business development initiatives to secure new customers and contracts
• Establish and maintain strong vendor, customer, and stakeholder relationships
• Identify areas for improvement and develop innovative solutions
• Lead projects from conceptualization to completion
• Ensure all operations run smoothly and efficiently

Experience 5+ Years

Level Senior

Small Business Owner Resume with 7 Years of Experience

A motivated and driven Small Business Owner with 7 years of experience in managing and leading all aspects of business operations. Skilled in developing and implementing strategic business plans with a focus on profitability and growth. Adept in overseeing day- to- day operations, managing staff, and maintaining customer relationships. Highly organized and detail- oriented with a strong ability to resolve customer complaints and ensure customer satisfaction.

• Business strategy and operations
• Financial management
• Customer service
• Negotiation
• Staff management
• Developed and implemented strategic business plans with a focus on profitability and growth
• Managed day- to- day business operations, including staff and customer relationships
• Managed financial activities and prepared financial statements to maximize profits
• Developed marketing plans and strategies to increase customer base
• Negotiated contracts with suppliers and vendors
• Developed customer service policies and procedures to ensure customer satisfaction
• Provided leadership and guidance to staff and managed performance reviews

Experience 7+ Years

Small Business Owner Resume with 10 Years of Experience

A small business owner with 10 years of experience in managing a successful business. Proven track record of delivering results, developing and executing strategies to increase customer satisfaction and profitability. Skilled in budgeting, problem- solving, and leading teams to high levels of performance. Adept at identifying and leveraging opportunities to enhance market presence and maximize returns.

• Strategic planning
• Financial analysis
• Business development
• Customer relations
• Risk management
• Team leadership
• Developed, implemented, and monitored long- term and short- term goals for the business
• Conducted financial analysis and established budget guidelines
• Monitored income, expenses, and production costs
• Evaluated and monitored marketing strategies
• Developed and maintained customer relationships
• Employed risk management strategies to ensure profitability
• Led and trained a team of employees in sales, customer service, and marketing

Experience 10+ Years

Level Senior Manager

Education Master’s

Small Business Owner Resume with 15 Years of Experience

A highly experienced small business owner with 15 years of experience in creating and managing successful companies. Possesses excellent leadership and organizational skills and has a unique ability to identify potential business opportunities. Has a proven track record of increasing sales and profits, developing successful marketing strategies, and implementing innovative business practices. Skilled in developing and nurturing profitable relationships with customers and vendors.

• Team Leadership
• Organizational Skills
• Developing long- term strategies to grow businesses and increase profits
• Recruiting and training staff, delegating tasks and ensuring goals are met
• Creating and implementing efficient management systems
• Developing marketing strategies and campaigns to promote products and services
• Identifying potential business opportunities and negotiating deals
• Analyzing data and making decisions based on insights
• Managing budgets and resources to maximize profits
• Maintaining relationships with customers and vendors to ensure continued success

Experience 15+ Years

Level Director

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What should be included in a Small Business Owner resume?

A small business owner resume should contain information that helps to showcase your education, experience and skills. As a small business owner, your responsibilities are unique and you want to make sure that your resume reflects the type of job you are trying to obtain. Here is what should be included in a Small Business Owner resume:

• Education: Include any educational degrees you have obtained, such as a Bachelor of Business Administration or an MBA. If you have any other certifications or professional development courses, be sure to include those as well.
• Professional Experience: List your current and previous roles at small businesses you have owned or worked at. Include details such as start and end dates, job titles and responsibilities, and any successes you achieved.
• Skills: Highlight the skills you’ve developed as a small business owner, such as strategic planning, financial analysis, customer service, and marketing.
• Leadership: If you have leadership experience in a small business, make sure to include that information. Showcase any projects you initiated or managed and how your work has helped the business succeed.
• Community Involvement: If you are involved with any local or national organizations, include it on your resume. This can be a great way to demonstrate your commitment to the community and show potential employers that you are an engaged and active member of the small business community.

What is a good summary for a Small Business Owner resume?

A small business owner resume should include a summary section that succinctly reflects their experience in the field. This should include the individual’s notable achievements, professional qualifications, and key skills. A summary should highlight their leadership abilities, as well as their ability to manage day-to-day operations, budgeting, and customer service. It should also include any additional certifications and knowledge they have.

The summary should be brief and highlight the individual’s years of experience, most notable successes, and key skills. It should also include any areas of focus, such as a specialty in a particular industry, or the completion of any professional development courses. Lastly, the summary should show the individual’s passion and commitment to their field.

Including a well-crafted summary on a small business owner’s resume can help to make them stand out from other applicants and show that they are an excellent candidate for the position. It should demonstrate the individual’s qualifications and add value to the resume by showing their ability to manage and lead a business.

What is a good objective for a Small Business Owner resume?

A small business owner strives for success and growth in their venture. A resume for a small business owner should thus include an effective objective statement that outlines the individual’s intention to utilize their expertise and experience to achieve results.

When crafting an objective statement for a small business owner resume, it is important to focus on the following key points:

• Demonstrate a commitment to fostering growth and success
• Highlight technical skills and expertise
• Accentuate interpersonal and communication skills
• Showcase experience in adapting to changing environments
• Stress the importance of dedication and hard work

By including these points in the objective statement, potential employers will get a sense of the individual’s commitment to their venture and the ability to bring that drive to the job. A good objective statement for a small business owner resume should be clear, concise, and to the point. It should emphasize a dedication to the success of the business and the individual’s technical skills and experience. It should also highlight the ability to communicate and adapt in a changing environment. Above all, it should stress the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.

How do you list Small Business Owner skills on a resume?

A well-crafted resume that highlights your skills as a small business owner can help you stand out and land the job you desire. To make sure that your resume properly reflects your abilities, it should include a section that documents your relevant skills. Below are some tips for listing Small Business Owner skills on a resume:

-Identify the core skills related to the position you’re applying for. Research the job and industry to identify the most important skills and abilities.

-Organize the list of skills into categories. For example, include categories such as “Management Skills,” “Financial Management,” and “Marketing.”

-List the most relevant skills first. Use keywords to highlight important skills in the job posting.

-Provide examples of your skills. Include any awards, certifications, or courses that demonstrate your ability.

-Proofread and check for accuracy. Double-check that all information is correct and up-to-date.

By properly listing the relevant skills you have as a small business owner on your resume, you can give yourself an advantage when applying for jobs. Make sure to tailor your resume to the position you’re applying for and provide evidence of your abilities.

What skills should I put on my resume for Small Business Owner?

If you’re a small business owner looking for a job, there are many skills you can list on your resume to showcase your experience. Here are some examples of skills to consider adding to your resume:

• Financial Management: As a small business owner, you have likely had experience managing financial resources and creating budgets. This experience can be invaluable to employers, and they may be interested in seeing it demonstrated on your resume.
• Leadership: You have likely had experience leading teams or other employees, or have had to make decisions on behalf of your business. Showcasing your leadership skills on your resume can be a great way to demonstrate your ability to take initiative and manage projects.
• Communication: As a small business owner, you have likely had to communicate effectively with customers, vendors, and other stakeholders. Being able to demonstrate your communication skills on your resume can be a great way to show employers that you are able to clearly and effectively present ideas and collaborate with others.
• Problem Solving: As a small business owner, you have likely developed strong problem solving skills. Being able to demonstrate this on your resume can be essential for employers who may be looking for creative solutions to problems.
• Adaptability: As a small business owner, you have likely had to be able to adapt to changing circumstances and environments. Demonstrating this ability on your resume can show employers that you are able to take on challenges and adjust to whatever comes your way.

By showcasing the skills you have gained as a small business owner on your resume, you can be sure to draw the attention of potential employers. These skills can be an invaluable asset to any organization, and can help you stand out in the job market.

Key takeaways for an Small Business Owner resume

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive and the hiring process more detailed, it’s essential for small business owners to make sure their resumes are up to date and reflect their achievements. Here are some of the key takeaways for ensuring your resume stands out from the rest:

• Highlight Your Accomplishments: When listing your experience and skills, focus on the accomplishments you’ve achieved and how they’ve helped your business grow. Highlight the tangible successes you’ve had, such as increased revenue or a customer satisfaction rating.
• Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Demonstrate your ability to lead and manage by including your experience leading projects and managing staff. Show that you can effectively delegate and motivate team members to reach their goals.
• Show Your Business Knowledge: Showcase your knowledge of key business trends, such as digital marketing, SEO, data analysis, or customer service. This will demonstrate to potential employers that you’re a business savvy individual.
• Include Your Education: If you have a degree in a relevant field, such as business or accounting, make sure to include it on your resume.
• List Your Network: Show potential employers that you are well-connected by listing your professional network. This can help you stand out from the crowd.

By incorporating these key takeaways into your resume, you’ll be sure to make a lasting impression on potential employers. Good luck with your job search!

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10 Small Business Owner Resume Summary Examples

A career summary is the first part of a small business owner’s resume. Essentially your first impression depends on this statement.

The time and research invested in writing an effective resume summary are always worth it.

A well-written resume summary can help you:

• Showcase your marketable skills that are relevant to the job • Highlight the match among your qualifications and job requirements • Focus on your number of years of successful relevant experience • Outline your top 3 – 4 core competencies and qualifications • Boast your entrepreneurship skills and convey your capability in the field • Grab the recruiters’ attention so they go on reading the full resume

Here are 10 small business owner resume summary examples:

Small Business Owner Resume Summary Examples

1. Seasoned small business owner with 5 years of experience in start-up administration, product sales, profit loss analysis, and employee management. Familiar with the latest e-marketing platforms. Strong drive to succeed. 

2. Target-oriented entrepreneur with excellent people skills, and 7+ years of experience in business analysis, staff management, sales, and marketing. Excellent problem solver with proven ability to partner and liaison with other business holders as required.

3. Self-reliant and passionate small business owner with a track record of upselling products and services, vendor handling, profit loss analysis, and product sourcing. Known for implementing cost-effective business expansion strategies.

4. Highly confident and goal-oriented businessman with expertise in supporting cross-functional teams to increase customer satisfaction. Proven skills in designing and executing strategic plans to enhance sales and increase revenues.

5. Astute business owner with exceptional leadership qualities, along with 5 years of experience in running their own setup. Well-versed in feasibility study, resource generation, business budgeting, employee hiring, and sales review.

6. Focused small business owner with 6 years in retail management. Proficient in business management, employee handling, sale strategy designing, and implementation, and revenue generation through online platforms.

7. Former small call center owner with 11 years of hands-on experience in customer handling, business analysis, employee training, and ensuring proper service delivery. Looking to leverage 60% year-over-year business growth and knowledge of telecom business.

8. Open-minded entrepreneur with excellent leadership and management skills. Professional work ethic and strong business acumen developed over a decade of running a successful retail business. Skills include business designing, management, analysis, and expansion.

9. Outgoing and passionate business owner with 12 years of owning and operating a successful business worth an average of $400K net annual return. Expert in business designing, implementation, sales review, and cost-effective budgeting.

10. Competent and experienced successful small business owner with unparalleled focus and market insight. Expertise includes data analysis, market optimization, and e-commerce.

• 10 Small Business Owner Resume Objective Examples
• Small Business Owner Interview Questions and Answers
• Small Business Owner Resume Sample
• Small Business Owner Cover Letter Sample

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Who Are Small Business Owners In America? A Snapshot

What drives SBOs to go to work each day? For many, it's their passion for what they do.

There are over 33 million small business owners across the United States. The Small Business Administration (SBA) defines this cohort as those with fewer than 500 employees.

But w ho exactly is a small business owner (SBO)? What’s their age and education? How many hours do they work? How much do they earn? What drives them to go to work each day?

Small business owners are the lifeblood of our economy and a pillar of their communities. So let’s take a closer look at these unsung heroes.

Businesses in the USA, according to the 2019/2020 Census.

What’s The Average Age Of A Small Business Owner?

When you imagine the face of entrepreneurship, what do you see? Someone in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, or 60s?

A whopping 51% of SBOs start when they’re 55+ years old. But that age group doesn’t account for all new small business owners.

Small business owners are diverse. The average age to start a business is 35. Here’s the breakdown:

• 6% start when they’re 34 and under
• 43% start between the ages of 35-54
• 51% start when they’re 55 and older

What does their path to entrepreneurship look like? Some skip college and launch their startup immediately. Others enter the workforce and start their venture after a layoff. And then there’s another cohort who retire from their profession and dislike retirement so much they jump into the wonderful business world.

Their age and journey may vary, but SBOs all have one thing in common—they’re ambitious trailblazers aiming to make their corner of the world a better place.

How Many Hours Do SBOs Work?

I call small business owners the unsung heroes of America for a reason. They work a lot to get things done. And even when SBOs aren’t working, they’re thinking about work.

I regularly clocked 70- to 80-hour workweeks when I started my first business. Those were long hours, yes, but that’s not abnormal. Most small business owners work beyond the standard 40-hour workweek.

So how many hours do business owners work? Consider these stats:

• 58% of SBOs work at least 50 hours per week
• Only 57% take vacations
• Of the 57% who take vacations, 67% check in to work at least once a day

This often unparalleled work ethic and sacrifice drives small businesses to employ millions of workers in the labor market.

One thing’s clear—small business owners’ intense dedication to their companies makes their businesses adaptable, successful, and an invaluable part of the economy.

How Much Do Small Business Owners Make?

Go up to any small business owner and ask them why they do what they do. I’ll bet they won’t say it’s for the money—especially during those startup years.

My first business was back in 1986. We ran out of money, maxed out our credit cards, and had to borrow. We didn’t get a real paycheck for four years!

So how much do small business owners make? Income can vary depending on industry, locality, profits, and time in business. The average income is $70,781 annually, but earnings can range from $31,000 - $150,000.

What Drives SBOs To Go To Work Each Day?

It’s not money. And it’s not short workweeks. What exactly drives small business owners to start and run a business?

I asked my social creative team to interview local business owners and discover what drives them. After all, SBOs are at the heart of everything we do at Patriot Software.

Here’s what we learned (and subsequently shared on our YouTube channel ):

• They’re creative. Small business owners aren’t satisfied with the 9 to 5. They have a vision of what they want to do and will do whatever it takes to get it done.
• Community is key. SBOs love building relationships with regulars, meeting new people, and hearing others’ stories. They often donate to their communities and sponsor local events. All in all, they want to make people happy, one customer at a time.
• They’re adaptable. COVID who? Recessions where? Quiet quitting what? Small business owners navigate through everything thrown their way with resilience and adaptability.

Who Is a Small Business Owner?

Sure, size is a key indicator of what is considered a small business . But there’s so much more to this group of fearless leaders.

SBOs embody the entrepreneurial spirit. They’re as diverse and spirited as the ventures they create.

They are the backbone of our economy, working long hours to get the job done and creating millions of jobs in the process.

Thank you, small business owners. What would we do without you?

Superyacht sinks latest: Fifth body found in search today - six people now confirmed dead

Five bodies have been found in the search for several people missing after a yacht sank off the Sicily coast, bringing the total number of dead to six. Search efforts are in their third day, after the captain was reportedly questioned by Italian prosecutors over the sinking.

Wednesday 21 August 2024 22:03, UK

• Superyacht sinking

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• Five bodies found in search for survivors, taking number of confirmed deaths in superyacht tragedy to six - with one person still missing
• Search ends for day as darkness falls
• Eyewitness: Onlookers wipe away tears as bodies hauled up
• Yacht's captain questioned for more than two hours - report
• Advanced underwater drone deployed
• Watch: CCTV captures yacht seconds before it sinks
• Explained: Inside the superyacht
• Live reporting by Mark Wyatt

We're pausing our coverage for tonight but here is a recap of what we know:

• Five bodies have been found in the wreckage of the sunken Bayesian;
• Four of the bodies have been retrieved and recovered to shore. Efforts to recover the fifth will resume tomorrow;
• One person is still unaccounted for;
• Divers employed the use of an upgraded remote-controlled underwater vehicle to help with the search;
• Emergency service staff and others involved in the search and rescue operations formed a "guard of honour" as bodies were brought ashore;
• The UK's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) confirmed it is investigating the sinking;
• The Bayesian's captain, James Cutfield, was questioned for more than two hours by Italian prosecutors;
• An investigation might result in changes to how masts are constructed, according to a professor of transport law;
• Two crew members who survived the disaster reportedly said it is a "miracle" they are still alive;
• Another crew member who survived the disaster was confirmed as Dutch national Tjis Koopmans.

It's been a busy day for search and rescue teams as they continued their quest to find people unaccounted for from the Bayesian's sinking.

Divers found five bodies, leaving just one person still unaccounted for when the search resumes tomorrow.

Below, we have a look at some images of the day as it unfolded:

Karsten Borner, the captain of a boat that came to the Bayesian's aide, has described the moment he came across the life raft containing survivors.

The 69-year-old told Sky News he had been busy trying to secure his own vessel when the violent storm hit when he noticed the Bayesian had disappeared behind him.

 "We saw a flickering light and it turned out to be the life raft, a 12-person life raft with 15 people inside including one baby," he said.

The people "stepped on" to his vessel, where he "took care of them". 

He added: "We gave them dry clothes, towels, blankets, tea and coffee and so on.

"I was busy talking to the coastguard to get them an ambulance and to send a message to search and rescue."

Those involved in the search and rescue operation looking for bodies should receive mental health support, an expert has told Sky News.

Divers have been working tirelessly since Monday morning to find the passengers unaccounted for following the sinking of the Bayesian.

Since then, six bodies have been found, with one person still missing.

"There's been a lot of focus on the physical risks involved with diving for the vessel," says Matthew Schanck, chair of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council.

"We've talked about debris and we've talked about the complex layout, but the lasting impacts on everybody involved is going to be on the mental health and we hope that the support is going to be there. 

"And I'm sure it will be for the emergency responders and also for the people who have survived and what is obviously been a very, very traumatic experience."

Searches have finished for the day and will resume tomorrow, the head of Sicily's civil protection agency has told the PA news agency.

Salvatore Cocina confirmed earlier that five bodies have been found today, but only four recovered.

One person remains missing.

A shipbuilding expert has said the Bayesian superyacht which sunk on Monday is among the "safest" available.

Giovanni Costantino is the chief executive of The Italian Sea Group, which now owns the firm that previously built the yacht.

He told Sky News this week's disaster off the coast of Sicily has put him "in a state of sadness on the one hand and of disbelief on the other".

He said: "Being the manufacturer of Perini [boats] I know very well how the boats have always been designed and built."

"The sailing ships, it is well known, are the safest in the most absolute sense," Mr Constantino added.

"First of all, because they have very little surface compared to a yacht facing the wind. Second, with the structure, the drift keel... they become unsinkable bodies."

The Bayesian sunk in the early hours of Monday morning off Palermo following a violent storm.

Investigators looking into the sinking of the Bayesian must work through evidence "methodically and meticulously", says the managing director of a maritime consulting group.

The UK's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has already confirmed it is investigating the incident. 

James Wilkes, a maritime investigator, told Sky News the investigation into the deaths of passengers will take time.

"The key thing for the investigators is to work methodically and meticulously through the evidence that they are able to get and make sure they're not missing something or not over interpreting something," he said.

Five bodies have been found today, bringing the number of confirmed deaths to six.

"They'll want to expedite it because if bodies are being recovered of British nationals, then it is very likely that an inquest will be opened into their deaths in the UK," added Mr Wilkes.

"There is no benefit to anybody rushing it. We need to arrive at the right conclusions with as little supposition and ambiguity as possible so that we actually make yachts safer in the future and actually understand what happened in detail."

Search and rescue teams have been working hard since Monday morning to find those unaccounted after the sinking of the Bayesian.

Specialists divers and experts have been called in, with coastguard helicopters and underwater remotely operated vehicles deployed to help.

Sky News correspondent Laura Bundock has been taking a closer look at the how the recovery operation unfolded...

A fifth body has been found today in the search for survivors of the sunken superyacht

The head of Sicily's civil protection agency Salvatore Cocina said four bodies have been recovered and that efforts to bring a fifth to shore are "ongoing". 

It brings the number of confirmed deaths to six, after the body of the yacht's on-board chef was recovered shortly after the incident on Monday.

By  Ashna Hurynag , news correspondent

The crowd on the harbourside has been growing since lunchtime. 

News that cave divers from Naples and Rome had joined the search came with more attention and interest. 

The search had entered its third day, and conservations were turning to fear about a lack of oxygen for those on board the sunken yacht. 

Radios were heard crackling across the water where a makeshift temporary search and rescue "centre" has been constructed. 

The white coastguard vessel and the search and rescue cream and red boat were coming in from the search site. 

As they docked, two divers dressed in orange wetsuits on the back of the boat lifted the first body bag.

The sight causing the crowd opposite to fall silent. The poignancy of the sombre moment bringing some watching on to tears.

Some looked away, whilst others filmed on their phones. 

The moment many had feared was unfolding before their eyes as the rescue mission only minutes ago quickly turned to recovery. 

The crowd watched on as another body was brought ashore too. 

A spontaneous guard of honour seemed to form as each body was brought to the harbourside - police officers, firefighters and search and rescue officials side by side, some with bowed heads - a moment of silence and respect. 

After hours of searching, this operation is coming to a close.

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