resume format in excel file

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Click here to go to the complete excel expert resume example directly.

This blog is the ultimate resource where you can find 3 ready-made excel specialist resumes, which you can replicate to create your own excel expert resume.

• Excel Resume Template 1
• Excel Resume Template 2
• Excel Resume Template 3

Not just that, if you are looking for an existing resource of resume bullet points which you can use as it is in your own resume, you can find it deep in this blog.

This blog will tell you everything you need to know about creating an excel expert resume.

Here is the summary of this blog:

• Optimize the resume with keywords that you will find on the job description
• Since this is a non-technical profile, add your core skills in the Key Skills section
• Add your Linkedin profile link on the excel specialist resume
• Use one-liner bullet points when writing the professional experience section of the resume
• Place the summary on the top of the excel experience resume and wrap it up within 3-4 lines
• Use proper formatting in the resume and use professional fonts such as “ Ariel ,” “ Times New Roman ” etc.

These are just the tip of the iceberg. You need to know a lot of things to create an excel specialist resume.

In this 2023 Excel Resume guide, you will get to know about the following:

• What are the main sections of an excel specialist resume?
• How to create the personal information section of the excel resume?
• How to create the resume excel skills section?
• How to present your professional experience in the excel specialist resume?
• How to curate the education section in the excel specialist resume?
• What are the best practices of writing the excel specialist resume summary?

If you are looking to get your hands dirty for creating an excel resume, visit Hiration Resume Builder and give it a try.

If you are interested in applying for some other profiles as well, you can look into these profiles:

• Administrative Assistant Resume
• Web Developer Resume
• Office 360 Resume
• Accounting Resume
• Financial Analyst Resume

Excel Resume Job Description

Here are some of the typical job responsibilities of an Excel specialist :

• Maintain an extensive database on Excel
• Administer transactions with 100% accuracy
• Maintain income and expense report
• Calculate interest payment for securities
• Develop dividend projection for future
• Maintain accounts and reconcile balance sheets

Minimum Qualification for Excel Specialist:

• Proficiency in MS Excel & Pivot Tables
• Ability to enter data on an excel sheet
• Ability to complete projects within a timeline
• Ability to work without supervision
• Skilled in Microsoft Dynamics NAV, C++
• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting preferred
• Proficient in excel add-ons, mail merges, macros, and scripts

Excel Specialist Salary in the USA

According to Zipricruter.com , an Excel Specialist makes around $42,943 per year in the USA.

Payscale.com says that an Excel Specialist makes $53,928

According to Salary.com , an Excel analyst makes $32 per hour in the USA.

Job candidates nowadays struggle with creating the one-liner bullet points for creating a resume. However, it is not that difficult. You can easily create a resume with bullet points.

Here are some of the tips to create one line bullet points:

• Create an action-result relationship in your bullet points
• Always start the bullet points with a power verb
• Bold, vital statistics and words to highlight your skills

Even after this resource, if you cannot create resume bullet points successfully, Hiraiton has made a massive resource to help you create bullet points for yourself.

Here is some example of resume bullet points for you:

Apart from that, you can find resume bullet points for the following profiles:

• Office Administer Resume points
• Office Manager Resume Points
• Bookkeeper Office Manager Resume Points
• Executive Assistant Resume Points

Excel Resume Formatting

It doesn’t matter if you are applying for an excel specialist or data entry job; your resume should look professional to impress the recruiter and get yourself a job.

So, to structure the resume beautifully, you need to ensure the formatting of the resume is stellar.

We suggest you use reverse-chronological formatting to create the Excel specialist resume. It highlights your accomplishments in an easy way.

Here are the main resume sections you need to add to your resume:

• Resume Header
• Contact Number
• Job Title : Your recent job title
• Resume Summary : A 3-4 sentence summary where you talk about your achievements
• Key Skills : A list of your core excel skills
• Professional Experience : Details of your job achievements
• Internship (fresher) : Only if you are a fresher
• Education : Your relevant high school and graduation degree, along with any training/ certifications
• Additional Information / Extracurricular Activities

Here’s how you format the Excel Specialist Resume:

• Use an ATS-compliant resume template, preferably a reverse-chronological resume
• Always set your resume margin to ** 1-inch** around the page. Do not go below 1 inch. Set the line spacing between 1-1.5 points
• Always use professional resume fonts such as Calibri , Times New Roman , Arial , etc
• Keep the fonts between 11-12 point s, and for the heading, use 14-16 point fonts
• Keep the resume within 1 page. Not 1.25, not .75. If you have 10+ years of experience only, then use a two-page resume.

The following skills are the essential requirement for an entry-level excel expert :

• SUMIF/SUMIFS
• COUNTIF / COUNTIFS
• Data Filters
• Data Sorting
• Pivot Tables
• Cell Formatting
• Data validation
• Excel shortcut keys
• Managing Page Layout
• Charts & its Analysis

However, these skills will not help you get far as these are entry-level resume excel skills.

If you want to get hired for a senior-level position, you must include advanced level excel skills in the resume , Such as:

• Excel Worksheets
• Advanced Charting
• Advanced Formula
• INDEX + MATCH
• Conditional Formatting
• PIVOT Tables & PIVOT Reporting
• VBA & Macros
• Data Tables, Simulations & solver

How to Describe Excel Skills on Resume ?

Recruiters only spend 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume. That means the candidate must highlight the skills to grab the reader’s attention immediately, and recruiters can quickly identify the candidate’s skills.

The best way to do that is by creating a separate key skills section in a resume and adding the core skills there.

Excel skills resume examples:

There are four crucial elements in the resume header, which you must include in your resume.

• Linkedin ID (optional)

Name : It situates at the top of your resume. It will help the recruiter identify your resumes from piles of resumes.

• Never write “Resume” or “CV” in place of your name
• Use the 16- 20 font size for the resume header.

Contact Number:

• Make sure to write your contact number without any typo or spelling mistakes, as these silly mistakes can cost you your job.
• Always write the ISD code before your contact number and use a plus (+) sign before it. Email ID:
• Do not use your current work email address
• Make sure that your email id looks professional
• Add your location in city, country code format if you are applying for a job in your country.
• Add your location in state, country code format if you apply for a job outside your country.
• Do not add your full address to your resume.

Here is an example of an Excel Resume Header for your resume:

Elliot Anderson Senior Excel Expert +1 (333) 555 7777 | [email protected] | SF, CA

Excel Specialist Resume: Profile Title

Resume profile title is an essential part of a resume. If you want to get an in-depth understanding of the resume profile title, you can read it from Hiration’s Profile Title guide .

Here are the tips to create a profile title:

• Frame the resume profile title with the second-largest text in the resume
• Keep the resume title font size within 14-16 points

Excel specialist resume summary or objective; which one should you use in your resume?

Most of the time, it depends on the candidate's experience.

A resume summary highlights your skills and accomplishments to the recruiter.

• If the candidate has less than three years of experience, use the Excel Resume objective.
• If the candidate has more than three years of experience, use the Excel experience resume summary.
• Wrap the resume summary within 3-4 lines
• Do not use first-person or second-person pronouns in the resume summary
• Start each resume summary point with "Proficient in," "Adept at," etc.

This is how your resume summary should look:

Process-oriented 5+ years experienced excel specialist highly skilled in analyzing data to bolster business growth for pharmaceutical companies. Proficient in optimizing financial operations for reduced operating costs. Adept at furnishing insights and business intelligence for assisting in data-driven decision-making.

I am an experienced excel expert skilled in crunching numbers for drug companies for increasing profit.

Excel Resume Objective

Use the resume objective if you do not have much relevant experience. The difference between resume summary and objective is unlike resume summary, Objective talks about your academic accomplishments and soft skills more than your professional skills.

This is how your resume objective should look:

Enterprising excel expert possessing experience in managing and analyzing large amounts of data for assisting with data-driven decision making. Possessing excellent leadership and communication skills.

College graduate with a passion for numbers and looking for a job in the data management field.

Here are the tips to follow when creating the professional experience section of your resume:

• Start the professional experience with your most recent experience and follow the reverse chronological format for writing the professional experience section.
• Read the job description and tailor your experience to fit the job description.
• Excel experts with data and numbers. Similarly, quantify your professional experience in the excel expert resume.
• Write the experiences in single line bullet points
• Make sure you highlight essential keywords and statistics in the excel expert resume to make it more scannable
• Club 2-3 related bullet points under one skill sub-heading. It improves readability
• Start the bullet points with power verbs but try to use different power verbs for other profiles.
• Use the cause & effect format when writing the excel resume bullet points.

Here’s the experience section of a Excel Specialist Resume :

Data Optimization & Database Management

• Organized rate card data into excel sheet for facilitating effective export operations
• Managed & cleaned old financial data from the database and uploaded current data into the financial systems

Data Backup & Error Management

• Performed weekly data-backup to reduce the risk of data loss
• Compared source data with system entries to detect errors for ensuring 100% accurate end results

I performed data entry for managing the export of material. Additionally, I removed old financial data and update the system with new financial data. I compiled and prioritized data and performed data backup on a weekly basis. I also reverify entered data with the source data to ensure maximum accuracy.

The minimum requirement for becoming an excel expert is having a bachelor's degree in any field. However, most of the excel experts have a Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance .

Senior profiles need you to have a Master's degree or higher.

• Here are the tips for writing the education section in your resume:
• If you are applying for an entry-level position, keep the education section at the top of the resume.
• If you are applying for an experienced profile, keep the education section after the resume.
• For an entry-level resume, focus more on the relevant coursework section in the education section.
• Include the GPA only if you have a GPA higher than 3.5
• Also, ensure you are including high school information in the education section

Here are the elements you should fill in the education section:

• Degree type
• University and location
• Honors, awards, and other academic achievements

This is how the entry-level education section should look:

Education Master of Arts in Business Administration May '19 Stony Brook University , New York, NY

• GPA: 3.5 | Dean's list for 4 Semesters Relevant Coursework:
• Accounting, Business Management, Data Management, Financial Management, Business Accounting

Excel Expert Certification

Excel is an advanced skill that requires advanced certification.

It exponentially increases your chance of getting shortlisted for an interview.

Here are the following details which you need to include in the certification section:

• Certification name
• Name of institute
• Location of institute
• Date of enrollment and completion in month & year format

Format of Certification information in resume:

{Certification Name} | {Name of Certification body} | {Location} | {Date of enrollment & completion}

Here are some certifications that you can pursue to get an excel expert job:

• **Microsoft Excel Certifications (Microsoft)
• Excel from Beginner to Advanced (Udemy)
• Excel Skills for Business (Coursera)
• Excel Certification (LinkedIn Learning)
• Introduction to Data Analysis using Excel (Coursera)
• Excel Essentials: The Complete Excel Series (Udemy)
• Microsoft Excel Certification (GoSkills)
• Excel Certification Courses (E-LearnExcel)**

Additional Excel Expert Resume Sections to Consider:

Here are the additional information you can add in your resume:

• Awards & Honors
• Community Involvement
• Leadership & Memberships
• Workshops & Training

Cover Letter for Excel Expert Resume

Getting a job in this highly competitive space is not a piece of cake.

You need to give 110% of your resources to grab the recruiter’s attention.

We recommend you to include a cover letter along with the resume to increase your chances of getting a job.

Here are some tips for creating the excel expert resume:

• Use paragraph format to write the excel specialist cover letter
• Write the first paragraph by telling where did you find the job posting followed by your years of experience to entice the recruiter
• In the second paragraph, write about your previous experience and accomplishments
• In the third paragraph, showcase why you are the perfect candidate for the job and ask the recruiter for an interview
• Keep your word count between 300-500 words, and do not go over one page for the cover letter

Excel Resume Template

• Performing a key role in cleaning, manipulating, and transforming data to improve overall data quality
• Verifying accurate data availability for managers and decision-makers by effectively maintaining data currency
• Utilizing worksheet data and external resources to create and modify pivot tables & charts with extreme precision
• Playing a critical role in cleaning old financial data and uploading required data into new financial systems
• Generating and modifying spreadsheets comprising the company's performance data to achieve analytical goals
• Utilizing database functions , advanced filters, automatic outlining as part of compiling, sorting, and prioritizing data
• Designing and implementing standard operating procedures ( SOPs ) to resolve issues pertaining to data gaps
• Performing routine database backups to safeguard and secure data
• Leading and training a team of ~5 professionals on creating reports via Excel in adherence to the company's guidelines
• Prepared reports and presentations by utilizing Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to facilitate sound decision-making
• Provided data entry support and compiled project status to render support to the top-level management
• Assisted in scheduling meetings, reviews, and conferences as per clients' and business requirements
• Oversaw email requests and reviewed data spreadsheets while ensuring 100% accuracy
• Performed a key role in maintaining a record of journal entries adhering to the company's guidelines
• Developed and evaluated reports while ensuring 100% industrial compliances to verify the accuracy of financial information
• Played a key role in reconciling balance sheet accounts on a monthly and annual basis
• Certified Excel Specialist | Microsoft Corporation | Jan '21
• Excel Foundation Course | elearn Excel | May '20
• CGPA: 3.8/4.0
• Member of Student Union | Organized meetings to delegate work to the team | Aug ' 13 - Jan '15
• Volunteer at Miracle Foundation | May '20 - Present
• Coordinating with 10+ volunteers to organize workshops for teaching excel skills to children-at-risk
• Performing a key role in raising funds for the NGO; raised USD 60k to date
• Languages: English (native) and Spanish (working proficiency)

Excel Expert Interview Questions

Here are some questions to help you with your interview preperation for excel expert job.

1) What is Microsoft Excel?

Ans. Excel is a Microsoft-developed spreadsheet application that is used for maintaining, organizing, and analyzing complex data.

2) What are cells in Microsoft Excel? Ans. The individual boxed inside an excel spreadsheet is called cells. These cells are responsible for holding data.

3) How can cells be recognized? Ans. Each cell have a unique address that depends on the row & column value of the cell

4) How can you add new cells in excel? Ans. It’s an easy process.

• Right-click on any cell.
• Click on Insert
• This will open a menu where you can add a cell, a column, or a row to the sheet.

5) What are the number formats in a cell?

Ans. A cell has 11 number formats.

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Go to Hiration's Online Resume Builder and explore all the features.

Key Takeaways

Here are some of the highlights from the blog:

• Divide the resume into multiple sections to increase the readability
• Use the single-line bullet points to write the professional experience section of the resume
• Create a separate section for key skills and put all the skills in that section
• Read the job description and identify the keywords and optimize the resume for those keywords.
• For an entry-level position, focus more on education, certification, projects, training, and additional experiences.

Follow the excel resume sample and examples to understand how to write a perfect excel specialist resume.

Go to Hiration resume builder and create a professional resume for yourself. Additionally, reach out to us at [email protected] and you can get 24/7 professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

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Resume templates

Put your best qualities on display with professional, customizable resume and cv templates. no matter your line of work or length of professional history, you'll find resume and cv templates that'll help you get the gig..

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Land your dream job with free, customizable resume templates. Showcase your potential to recruiters and stand out from other candidates with a professional template. Whether you're applying to corporate positions or creative roles, go with a sleek design or show your creativity with bold colors .

Resumes don't need to look boring—add flair to your professional experience with a creative resume template. There are plenty of resume designs to choose from, like simple resume templates and modern resume templates. Each resume template is fully customizable in Microsoft Word , so you can personalize each design element and add your own text. Using a template also makes it easier to customize your resume for each position you apply to.

Print out as many copies as you'd like or download the template for free to share digitally when applying online. These professional resume templates are perfect for any stage of life or career. Whether you're a high school student, actor, or seeking a career in nursing, you can find any format for any job type.

There are also a variety of free CV (Curriculum Vitae) templates to choose from. A CV is often longer than a resume and contains an in-depth look at your education and professional accomplishments. Like our resume templates, these CV templates are also customizable in Word.

Remember, your next job is only a template away! Once you've customized your resume, explore free cover letter templates to help you land the job.

Excel Expert Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write an Excel Expert Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Excel Expert Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

James Conrad (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, Atlanta, GA 12345

An Excel Expert with entry-level experience, specializing in data analysis, pivot tables, PowerBI, and Tableau. Adept at creating dashboards and conducting complex reporting on financial performance to enhance data-driven decision-making for businesses.

Professional Experience

Excel Expert, Corbin Manufacturing Co., Atlanta, GA May 2021 – Present

• Coordinate with technical teams to create pivot tables and charts for the automation of a spreadsheet containing pricing and costs for specific materials and items, which resulted in a reduction of over 30 work hours per month
• Create reports on long-term and short-term financial data and business performance, including developing graphs to support forecasting activities
• Analyze and compile data from accounting teams to consolidate reporting processes and create a master spreadsheet

Academic Experience

Academic Projects, University of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA September 2020 – May 2021

• Executed an academic project to create a budget tracker for college expenses using line graphs and pie charts, which enabled a visual overview of housing costs, tuition, textbook pricing, and miscellaneous expenses
• Completed coursework on statistics, accounting, Tableau dashboards, pivot tables, Vlookups, quantitative analysis, and advanced Excel formulas

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Accounting University of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, September 2017 – May 2021

• Microsoft Excel
• Data Analysis
• Pivot Tables

Certifications

• Excel Skills for Business Specialization, Coursera, 2021
• Microsoft Office Specialist, Expert Certification, 2021

Alisha Marquez (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, San Diego, CA 12345

A Senior Excel Expert with 10+ years of experience, specializing in data management, pivot tables, statistical analysis, and COUNTIF formulas. A proven track record of coordinating with cross-functional teams to identify process improvement opportunities and enhance the integrity and efficiency of data reporting for large organizations.

Excel Expert, Clear Energy Inc., Philadelphia, PA May 2018 – Present

• Manage and track customer appointments and cancellations for energy consultations and export data from the Microsoft Catalyst CRM into the master spreadsheet
• Create pivot tables and COUNTIF formulas in Excel to automate data entry processes, resulting in a reduction of 40 work hours per week and $100K in annual cost savings
• Support a large scale initiative to provide a visual overview of program data over a five years, including the consolidation of 20+ spreadsheets with over 1K line items

Excel Expert, Alternative Energy Partners, Philadelphia, PA May 2016 – May 2018

• Performed comprehensive analysis and validation of customer data during export from the Salesforce CRM, created macros and data filters to identify and remove duplicate line items, and created cost accounting spreadsheets for project teams
• Interface cross-functionally with field advisors to standardize data reporting for customer assessments and sales consultations

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Business Intelligence Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, September 2012 – May 2016

• Data Management
• COUNTIF Formulas
• Salesforce CRM
• Excel Skills for Business Specialization, Coursera, 2016
• Microsoft Office Specialist, Expert Certification, 2016

Derek Jones (123) 456-7890 [email protected] 123 Your Street, San Diego, CA 12345

A Senior Excel Expert with 10+ years of experience, specializing in financial reporting, data visualization, Tableau, pivot tables, and data analytics. A strong history of leading initiatives to automate data reporting for multimillion-dollar client accounts. Adept at delivering business solutions to improve data validation and visualization.

Excel Expert, Westbrook Financial Consulting, San Diego, CA May 2016 – Present

• Serve as the Microsoft Excel subject matter expert for the delivery of reporting services to 50+ client accounts for business financials, real estate funds, operational data, cash flow, cost accounting, and financial forecasting
• Design, develop, and implement data reporting solutions according to client business requirements, including the creation of master spreadsheets, pivot tables, and graphs
• Oversee a project to streamline data entry and reporting for a real estate firm by developing formulas and data filters to support analysis of net-asset values

Excel Expert, Cortez and Johnson Legal Associates, San Diego, CA May 2011 – May 2016

• Led a team of program coordinators and data analysts to migrate confidential data to a new internal CRM tool, which included creating comprehensive spreadsheets in Excel to validate the accuracy and integrity of client information
• Conducted research on the viability of the new CRM platform to reduce export processing time for data reports from one hour to two minutes

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Computer Science University of San Diego, San Diego, CA, September 2007 – May 2011

• Data Analytics
• Cell Formatting
• Data Manipulation
• Microsoft Office Specialist, Master Certification, 2015
• Excel Skills for Business Specialization, Coursera, 2011

To craft an eye-catching Excel expert resume, demonstrate your ability to create complex formulas, enhance data reporting, and drive automation for businesses. Showcase how your comprehensive knowledge of the program can bring value to prospective employers by featuring your strongest career achievements. This guide provides valuable tools and best practices to build an accomplishment-driven resume and land your next interview.

1. Craft an outstanding profile with a summary of your Excel expert qualifications

Grab the hiring manager’s attention with a compelling snapshot of your career. List your title, years of experience, and three to four skills that align with the job posting in your opening sentence. Highlight your advanced knowledge with various Excel functions, such as SUMIF, COUNTIF, and Vlookups. Show potential employers your proven track record of using your subject matter expertise to improve data visualization and enhance business processes. Include an engaging metric or key performance indicators (KPI) from your work experience to make a lasting impression on the reader and increase your odds of landing the interview.

Senior-Level Profile Example

A senior Excel expert with over 10 years of experience specializing in financial reporting, data visualization, Tableau, pivot tables, and data analytics. A strong history of leading initiatives to automate data reporting for multimillion-dollar client accounts. Adept at delivering business solutions to improve data validation and visualization.

Entry-Level Profile Example

An Excel expert with entry-level experience, specializing in data analysis, pivot tables, PowerBI, and Tableau. Adept at creating dashboards and conducting complex reporting on financial performance to enhance data-driven decision-making for businesses.

2. Showcase your Excel expert experience

Craft a compelling professional experience section that encapsulates the full breadth of your career achievements. Provide detailed descriptions of your projects and contributions emphasizing the bottom-line value you generated for previous employers. Feature examples of you providing Excel subject matter expertise to drive successful business outcomes. Show hiring managers how your technical knowledge would benefit their team and organization.

Incorporate hard numbers, data, and monetary figures to quantify your accomplishments and enhance the impact of your bullet points. For example, if you created a formula or pivot table to automate a manual data entry process, feature data that highlights a reduction in work hours or labor costs. If you identified opportunities to improve data reporting, mention an increase in accuracy or a positive impact on business decision-making.

Senior-Level Professional Experience Example

Excel Expert, Westbrook Financial Consulting, San Diego, CA | May 2016 – present

• Serve as the Microsoft Excel subject matter expert for the delivery of reporting services to over 50 client accounts for business financials, real estate funds, operational data, cash flow, cost accounting, and financial forecasting
• Oversee a project to streamline data entry and reporting for a real estate firm by developing formulas and data filters to support analysis of net asset values

Entry-Level Professional Experience Example

Excel Expert, Corbin Manufacturing Co., Atlanta, GA | June 2021 – present

3. Outline your education and Excel expert-related certifications

In addition to your education, feature relevant certifications to demonstrate your advanced knowledge of Excel. While these credentials aren’t always required, they are often preferred on many job postings. The Microsoft Excel — Excel from Beginner to Advanced course is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the program, especially at the entry level. The Excel Skills for Business Specialization Certificate is another strong option, as this credential shows hiring managers you understand how to apply your technical expertise to solve complex business challenges.

• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Business Intelligence
• University of San Diego, San Diego, CA | 2016
• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
• Excel Skills for Business Specialization, Coursera | 2021
• Microsoft Excel — Excel from Beginner to Advanced, Udemy | 2020

4. List key Excel expert skills and proficiencies

To get your document past the applicant tracking system (ATS) and into the hiring manager’s hands, ensure that your resume has all of the necessary skill sets and qualifications the employer seeks. Start by analyzing the job posting and incorporating keywords that match the organization’s needs. Feature a mix of skills to emphasize both your Excel knowledge and leadership capabilities. Below, you’ll find a list of potential keywords that you may encounter during the job search:

How To Pick the Best Excel Expert Resume Template

When selecting your resume template, always prioritize structure and readability over visual appeal. Avoid decorative fonts, bulky graphics, and flashy colors that might distract from your content. Choose a simple, elegant template with an appropriate amount of white space.

Select a single-column format that allows the hiring manager to easily scan your resume for key information, skills, and qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions: Excel Expert Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for excel expert resumes -.

It’s easy to run short on action verbs during the resume-building process. Often only a few verbs can accurately describe your career achievements, especially as a technical professional. So incorporate a mix of strong action verbs to enhance the impact of your bullet points. Below, you’ll find a list of verbs to craft your professional experience section:

How do you align your resume with an Excel expert job description? -

Align your resume with the job description to give yourself a substantial edge over the competition during the job hunt. Many candidates mistakenly use the same document for each application. While there may be overlap across different job opportunities, you won’t stand out from other applicants by providing a generic resume. Tailoring your document towards individual companies is the best way to show hiring managers you’re the ideal candidate for the position.

For example, an employer may seek a candidate with an advanced background in SUMIF formulas and cell formatting. Another may require a professional with a strong understanding of COUNTIF and pie graphs. If a company is seeking an Excel expert to improve data reporting and visualization for their business, you may want to highlight your background using Tableau and Excel in conjunction with one another to manage complex data sets.

What is the best Excel expert resume format? -

Reverse chronological is the ideal format for most Excel experts. Generally, always place your most recent and relevant experience on your resume. However, there are exceptions if you’re pursuing entry-level jobs and lack a robust work history. Putting your certifications, skills, and academic projects above your professional experience section is appropriate in this situation.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

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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Free Professional Resume Templates

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Classic Format Resume Templates

Chronological

These are the three standard resume formats : chronological, hybrid, and functional.

The chronological resume template offers a classic, no frills format. Consider this template if you work in a formal industry or want to bring attention to the impressive companies on your resume. Hybrid resume templates are versatile and the most popular format in today’s job search. Functional resume templates are popular for people changing careers or masking holes in their resume. Jobscan doesn’t typically recommend the functional resume format because recruiters may be suspicious of them .

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Senior Level and Executive Resume Templates

Once you begin applying to senior level positions, a greater emphasis is placed on the results your organizations have achieved and executive soft skills like leadership , innovation, and entrepreneurial drive. At the executive level, technical skills aren’t as important as they were earlier in your career. Fill out your executive resume template with accomplishments , measurable results, and examples of leadership .

Management Resume Templates

When it comes to writing a management-level resume, try to demonstrate a trajectory of growth along with a combination of deep industry knowledge and interpersonal skills. You need to prove that you’re an expert in your field who is able to delegate tasks and lead your team.

Mid-Career Resume Templates

When you’re no longer entry-level but still working as an independent contributor (vs a manager), your resume needs to focus on your ability to execute. A strong emphasis should be on the hard skills found in the job description. Back these skills up with context to demonstrate your level of expertise.

Recent Grad Resume Templates

When you’re looking for an entry-level job right out of college, your resume is going to look a little different. Your education section is moved up above your work experience and you’re expected to expand upon your college experience. Go into detail with honors, clubs, coursework, etc.

The Importance of ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

If you’re uploading your resume into an online form as part of your job application, it is critical for your resume template to be compatible with applicant tracking systems (ATS) . An expertly written resume complete with a sleek design and optimized resume keywords and action verbs could still fall short if the formatting isn’t ATS compliant.

When you upload your resume , applicant tracking systems parse out the text to make it searchable for a recruiter. They may also transfer the information from our resume to a uniform digital candidate profile. Even if you’re perfectly qualified for the job, your chances of getting a job interview are much lower if an ATS can’t accurately parse your resume.

ATS-friendly resumes are often similar to minimalist resume templates but go a step further to account for ATS algorithms and behaviors. Among other considerations, ATS-friendly resume templates account for the fact that:

• Many ATS can’t handle tables or images.
• Parsing accuracy is dependent on heading names and correctly sequencing your work experience information.
• Certain resume fonts might not be displayed properly in all ATS.
• PDF and docx file types work better than others.

Find out if your resume is ATS-optimized with Jobscan’s resume optimization tool . It will help you write the perfect resume so that you stand out from the competition.

How to Use a Resume Template

Be Selective

Finding the right resume template for you is the first step. Select a template that is ATS-friendly and includes space for all the elements you need to tell your story.

Customize Your Template

Not finding the perfect resume template? Select the best one and make some adjustments. For example, you can remove a hobbies section if you need more room for your work history, add a space for key certifications that don’t fit in the template or add a skills section to better highlight your technical skills.

Resume templates are meant to be a guide to a better resume, not an unbreakable set of rules.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job Every Time

Recruiters and hiring managers are more likely to respond to a resume that is carefully tailored for the specific position .

This means using the job description to focus on the skills and keywords that are most important to the job. Showing that you are results-oriented is another great way to show you are the best candidate. Including relevant measurable results and accomplishments on your resume help demonstrate that you understand what is most important to the company’s success.

After you’ve tailored your resume information within the template, run it through Jobscan’s resume optimization tool to see how well it matches the job. In fact, more than 1 million job seekers have used our tool to help them find the next step in their career—see how it can help you!

Are you still tracking jobs in Excel or Google Sheets? Track and manage your job applications and interviews all in one place with Job Tracker . With the click of a button add a job to Job Tracker. From there you can organize your resumes and job descriptions, keep track of important interview dates and details, and manage multiple job opportunities in one place.

Resume Template FAQs

What is the best resume template for me?

The best resume template is the one that provides room for you to showcase your relevant skills and tell the complete story of your relevant work experience. If you are an entry-level or mid-career applicant, look for a template that highlights your hard skills. For executive-level applicants, a template that focuses on your executive summary and work experience will be best.

Which resume format is best?

Recruiters prefer chronological or hybrid formatted resumes. All of the templates above are great choices! We do not recommend using a functional template, which focuses primarily on skills and downplays work history.

Read more: Why Recruiters Hate the Functional Resume Format

What is the difference between a resume template and a resume builder?

A resume builder is a tool that prompts you to enter your information into input fields and formats a resume for you. Resume templates are typically editable Microsoft Word files that are already formatted. Prefer the ease of a builder? Jobscan’s resume builder is 100% free!

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Excel skills resume: highlighting your proficiency effectively

Basic Excel skills

Intermediate excel skills, expert excel skills.

The goal of any job search is, of course, to get your next great position. You know you need a resume and cover letter that will entice a recruiter to offer you an interview. The real challenge is how to go beyond listing “Excel expert” in your skills section and really proving that you are the spreadsheet whiz you claim to be.

You need to demonstrate your Excel skills on your resume in more detail and in a way that your target employer will notice them, but how? Within this blog you will find the answers to the following questions:

What are Excel skills?

Which excel skills are most in demand, how do i describe my excel skills on my resume, how do i judge the level of my excel skills, how can i boost my excel skills for my resume.

More than 1.3 million U.S. businesses use Microsoft Office 365, including Excel, according to Statistica . 

Excel is a spreadsheet program that has been around since 1987 and is widely used throughout the world. Its key functionality is creating spreadsheets, crunching numbers, and turning them into graphical representations, but that is merely a broad overview. Excel experts can not only create formulas and work with data, expert users know how to analyze that data and integrate Visual Basics for Applications (VBA).

Let’s look at the top 10 Excel skills at each level. Checking off your skills will begin to give you an idea of what your expertise level is.

• Saving and opening workbooks
• Creating and managing worksheets
• Formatting the cells within worksheets
• Using basic functions such as SUM, COUNT, IF, and NOW
• Creating charts
• Sorting data
• Find and replace
• Paste special
• Using keyboard shortcuts to save time
• Understanding the Go to Special option
• Creating pivot tables
• Giving a named range to cells
• Drop-down lists
• Creating conditions and formulas to format cells
• Using Excel tables
• Using the Idea button to analyze data
• Split columns using text to column
• Applying the quick analysis tool
• Creating advanced formulas
• Creating advanced charts
• Cleaning and transforming data using power query
• Modeling data with power pivot
• INDEX MATCH

Depending on the job you are targeting, any of the above skills may be desired by recruiters. If Excel is a key component of the position, aim to demonstrate higher level skills, but if you will be a data entry clerk, a basic understanding of Excel worksheets and functions may be enough.

One way to determine what Excel skills are required of a position is to analyze the job listing. Often, employers will say exactly what they are looking for. It doesn’t hurt to have more advanced knowledge than what is listed, but applying at a level too far below your skills could lead to a bad fit for you and your employer. The same is true if you stretch too far. 

The real trick is to match the skills you have with those necessary to do a stellar job. That shows that you understand what the recruiter is looking for and gives you a leg up in passing through the initial gatekeeper, or Applicant Tracking System (ATS) algorithm.

So, which Excel skills are in highest demand? Advanced-level skills give you an advantage in any data-heavy job, especially analyst positions, but basic intermediate-level expertise may be enough knowledge for the job you want.

Careers that require advanced Excel skills:

• Data analyst
• Financial analyst
• Market analyst
• Administrative assistant
• Project manager

Of course, you can and should list your Excel abilities within the skills section of your resume, but that does not adequately describe what you can do with that hard-won knowledge. Recruiters don’t just want to see the words “Data modeling expertise using Excel,” they want to know what data you modeled and how.

You have several options for illustrating what you can do. The first falls within your resume summary or profile, section. Here you may include a sentence highlighting your biggest Excel project success. 

Your second option comes in your employment history section. Use bullet items to detail different Excel achievements with specific language that shows what skills you used and what you accomplished. Make sure you’re matching the exact skills that you found in the job listing. You may also choose to list any Excel courses or certifications you have earned either within your education section or in a separate certifications element of your resume.

Finally, if you have worked on many data visualizations you want to point out, consider creating a portfolio and linking to it from your resume.

The power of your cover letter

While you don’t want to leave Excel skills out of your resume to tout them in your cover letter, you should absolutely use your application letter to highlight key data analysis or other spreadsheet wonders you created that need more than a bullet point to explain.

When you compile your employment history bullet items, begin with strong action words. To give your listings some structure, you may use the STAR method. Start with your situation, describe the task at hand, explain the action you took, and finish with the results you achieved. Here are a few examples of bullet items that describe Excel skills on a resume:

• Created Pivot Table to compare invoice due dates with actual payments allowing accounting department to improve cash flow model
• Using VBA, automated the discovery of duplicate entries in employee-generated databases to increase accuracy of customer count by 15%
• Employed INDEX MATCH to assist logistics department with finding location of raw materials in supply chain, saving logistics clerks 5 hours of work time each week
• Input 100+ data points daily into spreadsheets and checked for accuracy

Some resume formats offer the opportunity to list not just your skills, but your proficiency level for each one. Suppose you have checked most of the list of intermediate Excel skills and want to add them to your resume. How do you know whether you should say you have basic knowledge, are proficient in Excel skills, or even have expertise?

You can simply use your judgment if you have been working with Excel for some time and know where your strengths and weaknesses lie. Once again, remember to find your job sweet spot by matching those levels with the job requirements. If you have taken a course followed by an exam, you can use your results to gauge your skill level. 

If you’re unsure, you can complete an online assessment on your own and use those results to describe your skill level.

Here are a few online Excel assessments:

• Microsoft Excel Specialist (earn a certificate)
• Excel practice online
• Isograd Testing
• Corporate Finance Institute

If you’ve assessed your skills or found a job that looks great but you’re missing a key skill, what can you do? Adding skills to your repertoire tells employers that you are a lifelong learner who is ambitious and willing to go the extra mile to be a valuable member of the team.

Another benefit of classes you have taken the initiative to complete is that employers may be more willing to train a person who has shown both the aptitude and the determination to add to their skills.

You may choose to complete an online Excel course, do a self-directed study and follow it with a certification test, or sign up for an in-person class or boot camp. Also, consider completing practice projects on your own and adding them to your portfolio or creating a portfolio once you have a few beautiful data visualizations under your belt.

Key takeaways

• Excel is widely used among all sizes of businesses and has been around for more than 30 years.
• The level of Excel skills you need depends upon the type of position you are applying for.
• You can infuse almost every element of your resume with Excel skills from your summary to your education section.
• Evaluate your own skill level and target your job applications appropriately.
• Don’t be afraid to advance your skills on your own to increase your value as an employee.

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TEMPLATE DESCRIPTION

If you’re looking for up-to-date, well-organized, and visual resume formats to introduce yourself to human resources, this Resume Excel Template will help you with 5 different  style options. Minimize your time thinking about how to make it and what model to use so that you can focus on the content and not the design or looks of your resume!

Main Features of the Template

Firstly, the design of each model meets the purpose of it, the professional level of the user, or the chosen occupation. Because every company has its own brand tone and personality, the format that you structured for them should be relevant and suitable.

Basically, this resume template excel spreadsheet has 5 different resume styles:

• Traditional Model
• Executive Model
• Achievement Model
• Visual Model
• Artistic Model

Traditional Model follows simple standards for job applications, you don’t need visual formats to impress a company that is known for a more formal work environment.

Executive Model is for professionals with a senior or executive position at a company. You don’t need to be fancy when you are writing your work experiences.

Achievement Model  focuses on personal accomplishments, especially your positive impact on your previous experiences. That’s why you need to highlight your successes clearly not your duties!

Visual Model  works best for job seekers in a creative industry or profession with minimum text.

Artistic Model emphasizes your skills and qualifications according to your professional occupation.

Furthermore, the models of this Excel Resume Template are based on thorough research on recruitment best practices that are recognized by employers worldwide. To emphasize, these models are ready to use by default. But if you would like to add some extra information on them, simply click (+) buttons!

Finally, you can add your own picture as shown below:

Moreover, you can also change the size of the picture!

Lastly, if you haven’t chosen the career which suits you best, you can start your job search on Jooble.org. Here is an example of open positions for Accountants jobs !

Excel Resume Template Features Summary:

• Included 5 unique Resume Formats in Excel for users
• User-friendly and flexible resume
• Compatible with Excel 2010 and later versions
• Full Print Ready
• No installation needed. Ready to use.
• On Sheet Instructions

Resume Templates in Excel is a ready-to-use Excel Template and provided as-is. If you need customization on your reports or need more complex templates, please refer to our custom services .

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Watch the video below to see the template in action! Presentation also includes usage notes, explanations and tips & tricks about the template.

USER REVIEWS & COMMENTS

14 reviews for resume excel template.

Maya Rahm – July 1, 2023

easy to use

Aaravsharma – March 13, 2023

I’m not satisfied with the lack of modern and creative layout

Leo Moretti – October 12, 2022

perfect fit! saves my life

Rozanne A – May 4, 2022

Great excel, how can I add some extra information?

Someka – May 4, 2022

Hello Rozanne,

The models are based on thorough research on recruitment best practices that are recognized by employers worldwide. By default, these models are ready to use, but if you would like to add some extra information to them, simply click the (+) buttons! Hope this helps!

Korey Bailey – March 10, 2022

I love it. tiny request pleas delete your logo

Someka – March 10, 2022

Hello Korey,

You can remove the logo or replace it with your own logo for each sheet. For Free Versions, you are not allowed to remove the logo or alter any copyrighted material in the template. You can do it in the full version. Please check how to do that in this link .

Hope this helps!

Teo S – February 5, 2022

I am impress with the template!

Emma – January 16, 2022

Perfect !!! Is a usefull tool

lalithe – March 30, 2021

Nice Work….

Dante Razetto – June 10, 2020

Great template! It helped me to prepare well designed resume. After I create this, can I also save it as a PDF file? or Am I able to convert it to word document?

Someka – June 11, 2020

Hi Dante Yes, you can save your resume as PDF file and even print it. We have created this template as totally user friendly so, you can easily create a resume like you are preparing it on microsoft word. Please feel free to contact with us, if you have further question! Regards.

berry.m – October 3, 2019

It seems as though almost all resume style pieces obvious or extremely common!! Thank you!

evahenri – April 15, 2019

Looks handy! I’d like to use your resume builder to create my resume

annac_alver – February 1, 2019

You can’t change colors, fonts, and layouts unless you paid for it!!

Someka – February 21, 2019

Thank you for your feedback, Anna! Our templates are prepared to be ready to use and can be used without buying modifiable version! For further customization, you can get the password and all modification rights, here: Get Modifiable Version

hoang.t – January 13, 2019

I am using your builder however I was hoping you might have some automatic input which they are tailored for you personally

meln – December 19, 2018

Wow, that’s a good CV creater and easy to use! The only thing that is missing (for me) is what to do if you want to add the picture of me?

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• Functional Resume: Writing...

Functional Resume: Writing Guide, Examples, & Template

11 min read · Updated on August 28, 2024

What is a functional resume, and is it suitable for your job search?

Submitting the best resume possible is essential regardless of the job you're applying to. Selecting the proper format for your unique circumstances is one aspect of ensuring that's the case. Many turn to the common chronological resume format. But what happens if your work history and skills don't fall neatly within that format? Then, a functional resume might be an option.

Below, we answer, “What is a functional resume?” and share tips with a template, as well. 

What is a functional resume?

The functional resume format emphasizes your skills over your work history. The goal of a functional resume is to craft your carer history in such a way that proves how the skills you've acquired align with the job you want. It's these skills that will stand out first and foremost to the hiring team. 

You still include your work history in a functional resume, though you don't go into detail about your accomplishments for each specific position. Instead, you include your accomplishments within each skill category. 

FORESHADOWING: We have a functional resume example at the end of this post you can refer to and see how this works. 

A functional resume tends to be a last-resort format for a couple of reasons:

Applicant tracking systems sometimes have a difficult time reading a functional resume format. 

Since the functional format is not that common, it can be more difficult for recruiters and hiring managers to find the information they're seeking quickly.

Still, if you don't have a traditional work history but have many skills relevant to the job you're applying for, a functional resume could be the best choice for you. 

What is a functional resume vs. a chronological resume?

The chronological resume, also referred to as a reverse chronological resume, is the most commonly used resume format. This format focuses on your work history instead of skills like the functional format. 

In the chronological format, you will include your most recent job first, with the rest of your experience in reverse chronological order. Each position will have a set of bullets that flesh out your achievements in that role. 

A chronological resume is an ATS-friendly format when it's written correctly. It also tends to be the most popular among hiring teams since they're familiar with the format and can easily locate the information that matters to them. 

Related reading: How to Use a Reverse Chronological Resume Format

What is a functional resume vs. a hybrid resume?

A hybrid resume, also called a combination resume, blends aspects of the chronological and functional resume formats. The goal of a hybrid resume is to equally emphasize your skills and work history. 

The hybrid resume has become a popular format choice for candidates since it gives the opportunity to emphasize the skills you have in combination with your work history. It's also a format that tends to be easily read by ATS and human readers. 

Related reading: The Best Resume Format to Get You Hired

When should you use a functional resume?

Now that we've answered “What is a functional resume?” let's discuss when you should and shouldn't use this format option.

A functional resume might work well for you if:

You have been out of the workforce for a while. Suppose you're reentering the workforce after some time. In that case, you might not want that fact to be the first thing prospective employers notice about your resume. Instead, you'd prefer they see your impressive categories of skills. 

You have a large gap in your employment history. Similar to being out of the workforce for a while, a functional resume helps to emphasize your relevant skills first to give a positive spin on your resume, helping to take the emphasis off of your employment gap(s). 

You have held jobs that span a lot of different types and industries . If your employment record is all over the place regarding the industries and types of jobs you've held, it might not be easy for a hiring team to connect your experience to the job you're applying for. A functional resume will allow you to emphasize that you have the skills necessary for the job first, so your diverse employment record isn't called into question (hopefully) as much. 

You have little to no work experience. You might not have much work experience if you're right out of college. You do likely, however,  have a lot of skills you've acquired through school activities, sports, part-time work, or school clubs. A functional resume allows you to be creative in the skills you represent first, helping to grab the attention of hiring teams with what's most relevant.

Your skills have been acquired through means other than traditional work experience. Suppose you have relevant skills acquired through things like hobbies, interests, or volunteer experience over conventional work experience. In that case, a functional resume will allow you to emphasize these skills so they stand out better than they would in a chronological format. 

When should you not use a functional resume?

If any of the following pertain to you, then it's likely in your best interest to choose a hybrid or chronological resume format:

You have a traditional employment career trajectory. If you have plenty of work experience related to the job with a typical career growth path, then a chronological or hybrid resume is the way to go. 

You're changing careers and want to emphasize transferable skills. If you've gained a lot of transferable skills and are making a career shift, a hybrid resume is an excellent way to highlight your transferable skills first, with your work experience coming in second. 

Your most recent employment history is relevant. If your most recent employment is relevant to the job, even if some of the rest of your work history isn't, you'll likely do better with a hybrid or chronological format over a functional one. 

What to include in a functional resume

Here are the sections to include in a functional resume:

Start with your contact information

Regardless of the format you select, you'll start it off with your contact information. This includes your name, cell phone number, email address, and location (city, state, zip code). You can also include your LinkedIn or professional website URL. 

Kick it off with a resume summary

Another common element across all resume formats is starting it off with a resume summary . Your summary should encapsulate what your resume is about. You want to grab the reader's attention enough for them to want to learn more. Include three to five essential skills and one to two accomplishments, with some powerful adjectives to describe you. 

Categorize your skills

The bulk of your resume for a functional format will be your Professional Skills section. Here's where you'll categorize your skills and include key accomplishments from your experience to showcase how you applied those skills successfully in the past. 

Incorporate your work history

Following your Professional Skills section, include your work history. Here, include the name of the employer, your position, and the dates you were employed. Where you would include bullet points of your accomplishments below each position for a chronological and hybrid format, you will leave those off in the functional format. You've already covered key accomplishments within your categories of skills.

Close it off with education

Like other resume formats, your functional resume will end with your Education section . An exception to this is if you are a new hire with little to no work experience and a few skills to highlight. In that case, you'll emphasize your education by listing it first, followed by your Skills section and then your work history. 

Your Education section should include your degree and where you obtained it. You can also include any honors you might've achieved. 

Many also choose to include any relevant certifications in their Education section. Or, you can opt to include a separate Certifications section if you have more than one to highlight.

Include additional sections as appropriate

You may include additional sections on your resume depending on your unique circumstances. Additional sections could include Volunteer Experience, Hobbies and Interests, Certifications, Special Projects, and Technical Skills.

Tips for writing your functional resume

Here are a few additional tips to help you craft a job-winning resume:

Tailor your resume to each job. Refer to the job description and tailor your resume to include keywords and information that aligns with your skills and experience. 

Use power verbs. Begin each work accomplishment bullet point with a power verb . 

Include as much quantifiable information as possible. When describing your accomplishments, include results and use data to quantify those results as much as possible. 

Example of a functional resume 

Here is an example of a functional resume for someone pursuing an HR-related job. You'll see this individual has a brief employment gap and a bit of an unconventional career path, making a functional resume a suitable option.

Kendra Smith

555.555.5555 | [email protected] | Morgantown, WV 26250 

Intuitive professional with multi-dimensional expertise in Human Resources for diverse group of industries, including oil & gas, finance, Internet marketing, and real estate. Timely and efficient with the ability to work with all levels of staff within an organization. Influential in working with leadership teams to support the best interests and wellbeing of employees. Expertise includes recruiting, employee relations, training and development, and performance management. 

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

Staffing & Recruiting

• Partnered with recruiters to rebuild workforce after a 40% reduction due to Hurricane Katrina relocation
• Counseled management while going through a reduction in force for 150+ positions
• Recruited for over 500 positions in multi-faceted environments
• Utilized applicant tracking system (ATS) software, including Taleo, JobVite, and SAP, to monitor resume submissions and data
• Designed a one-stop shop website to assist new hires in assimilating to the community and company

Employee Relations & Performance Management

• Managed employee relations for global and domestic client groups totaling 500-700 employees for multi-million dollar companies
• Designed and implemented new company-wide Service Award Program
• Developed new Performance Management process resulting in more effective employee development, documentation, and communication
• Directed relocation project and successfully transferred 300+ positions from Austin to Houston, TX

Communications & Policy Design

• Prepared and administered 40+ HR-focused policies, including performance management, non-solicitation, harassment, education reimbursement, annual MVR reviews, and discipline for $4.5B start-up company
• Partnered with HR & Legal departments to develop and present materials for pertinent employee communications, including Austin relocation, benefits open enrollment, and policy updates
• Presented HR updates, including goals and projects, for monthly Leadership staff meetings
• Drafted and wrote 200+ employee, HR, and CEO communications

Training & Development

• Developed 30+ training modules focused on HR Foundational skills for supervisors and managers, including union avoidance, effective communication, performance management, employment law, recruiting, and employee development
• Spearheaded culturally sensitive technical and professional career development plans for 100 international and domestic employees
• Trained HR colleagues on I-9 government compliance

WORK EXPERIENCE

HR SME Copywriter:  IESquared, LLC, Houston, TX, 6/2020 - Present 

Public Relations Specialist:  PrimeWay Credit Union, Houston, TX. 4/2017 - 6/2020 

HR Recruiter:  HighMount E & P, Oklahoma City, OK, 11/2012 - 5/2013

HR Operations Manager:  Dominion E & P, Houston, TX, 9/2010 - 10/2012

EDUCATION   

West Virginia University – Morgantown, WV

• Master of Science in Human Resources and Industrial Relations
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Is a functional resume right for you?

Now that you know the answer to “What is a functional resume?” it's time to decide if it's the right option for you. If you have a traditional work history, recent relevant work, or are applying for a job where your work history is necessary to include in detail, then you should forgo the functional resume format. If you fall into any of the other categories above where a functional resume could be of value, then go for it. And, when in doubt, you can always hire a resume writer to help. Good luck!

Are you using the right format for your resume? Find out by submitting it for a free resume review . Our experts will review it and provide specific tips to help improve it and get past an ATS!

Recommended reading:

How to Check If My Resume Is ATS-Friendly for Free

15 Expert Tips to Working with Recruiters

Strategic Job Search Planning: Land Your Dream Job

Related Articles:

How to Write a Short Bio? (With Examples)

7 Best Personal Skills for Your Resume (With Examples)

Great Jobs for Teens: Top Picks for 16-Year-Olds

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The first prerequisite of any job-application exercise is that you must have a curriculum vitae , also known as CV or resume. To make a good impression on the HR or recruiter, your resume must have a combination of features that make it hard-to-miss material. No worries if you do not know how to design or build a resume. You can download any of our many resume templates and personalize them with the relevant information, and you’re good!

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Use a template to create a resume

If you need help creating a resume or cover letter, start with one of the dozens of professionally-designed resume and cover letter templates that are available in Word.

Go to File > New .

In the search box, type Resume or Cover Letter.

Double-click the template you want to use.

Replace the placeholder text with your own information.

On the File menu, select New from Template .

Create and use your own template in Office for Mac

Making a resume like this while you're online is quick and easy.

Note:  This template comes with a cover letter, so you'll have everything in one document.

Choose one of our resume templates , and open it in Word for the web to make it yours.

As you work on the resume, you'll probably want to rename it.

The template uses a table to line everything up. If you need to add more lines for job experience or education, add rows to the table by going up to Layout under Table Tools and clicking Insert Below (or Insert Above) .

For tips on writing your resume, check out Six steps to developing a great resume .

When you're finished, print it out or share it online. You can do this with the resume still open in Word for the web. No need to save it first (that's already done for you).

To print it, press Ctrl+P, and wait for the Print dialog box.

Note:  If you don't see a Print dialog box, click the link for opening a PDF version of your resume. From there, use the PDF program's Print command.

To share it online, send a link:

Near the top of the screen, click Share .

Under Share , click Get a Link .

Under Choose an option , click View only .

Click Create Link .

Click on the web address to select it, and then copy and paste it into an email, message, or post.

Tip:  If you have a blog or website, you can embed a view of your resume there.

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Department of Economics

• Undergraduate

18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

Copyright ©2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed

MS Excel Skills: Example Usage on Resumes, Skill Set & Top Keywords in 2024

Displaying proficiency in MS Excel on your resume suggests to the recruiter your strong analytical abilities and attention to detail. Dive into the guide below to discover strategies for crafting an impactful resume and learn how to effectively highlight your skills.

Is your resume ATS-friendly?

Drop your resume here or upload a file to find out if the skills in your resume are readable by an ATS.

In This Guide:

Misusage of ms excel on resumes, how to demonstrate ms excel skills on your resume, what are the relevant certifications for ms excel skills on a resume, most relevant jobs for ms excel skills, key takeaways.

Having Microsoft Excel skills means knowing how to use one of the most popular spreadsheet programs to organize, analyze, and manipulate data. This program allows users to create intricate and straightforward tables, perform mathematical functions, create pivot tables, and generate graphs and charts to display information visually. Proficiency in Excel can be an asset as it demonstrates your ability to handle data efficiently and your familiarity with a tool that's widely used in diverse professional settings, from businesses to educational institutions.

Including MS Excel on your resume can show potential employers that you have the necessary skills to manage data effectively, a requirement that's commonly found in job descriptions. However, there can be drawbacks to adding it to your resume; it may be seen as a basic skill that most applicants are expected to have, potentially diluting the impact of your more advanced competencies. A better approach might be to highlight specific, advanced Excel functions you are proficient in or to provide examples of complex projects where you leveraged Excel to achieve impressive results.

In this article, you will learn:

• The benefits of adding Excel to your resume and how it can communicate your data management abilities.
• The possible downsides to listing Excel on your resume and how it may be viewed by employers.
• Effective ways to showcase your Excel skills, with suggestions for highlighting advanced capabilities or project experience.

Having a strong command of Excel is a valuable asset in many professional roles; however, inaccurately representing your skills in Excel can backfire and undermine your credibility. If you inflate your proficiency in Excel on your resume or misrepresent your ability to utilize its features, you may find yourself in a challenging position if called upon to demonstrate those skills during an interview or on the job. To avoid these pitfalls, it's important to present your Excel expertise honestly and clearly across various sections of your resume.

• Summary Section Example: Claiming to be an "Excel wizard capable of complex data manipulation" when you only have basic knowledge of spreadsheets and simple formulas.
• Experience Section Example: Describing responsibilities like "leveraged advanced Excel functions for data analysis" when your actual task was data entry using basic Excel spreadsheets.
• Achievements Section Example: Stating that you "increased company revenue by 50% through sophisticated Excel modeling" when your contribution was limited to updating existing financial models with new data.
• Highlight your proficiency by listing advanced Excel features you’ve used, such as pivot tables, v-lookups, and macros.
• Describe any complex data analysis projects you've completed using Excel to show your capabilities in handling data.
• Include your experience with creating charts and visualizations to present data in an understandable way.
• Mention any certifications or courses you’ve completed that focus on Excel to showcase your dedication to learning.
• Detail how you’ve utilized Excel to automate processes, save time, or improve efficiency in your previous roles.

Example 1: Demonstrate ms excel in the experience section

• • Analyzed sales data from over 50,000 transactions leading to a targeted marketing strategy that boosted sales by 15% in one fiscal quarter.
• • Developed a new inventory management system using MS Excel macros, reducing waste by 20% and saving the company $200,000 annually.
• • Trained 25 new employees on advanced Excel features for data manipulation, resulting in increased department efficiency by 30%.
• • Conducted monthly financial reporting and variance analysis to inform leadership of key trends, discrepancies, and opportunities.
• • Created complex financial models in Excel to simulate various business scenarios, aiding in strategic planning and decision-making.
• • Utilized advanced Excel functions to analyze survey data from over 10,000 respondents and presented findings to stakeholders to guide product development.
• The positions and companies mentioned are realistic, demonstrating roles where Excel skills are relevant and valued.
• Each bullet point contains specific, measurable achievements that clearly show the candidate's impact on business objectives.
• Different aspects of Excel expertise are showcased, such as data analysis, inventory management, training, financial modeling, and survey analysis.
• The bullet points avoid vague language, focusing instead on clear descriptions coupled with concrete numbers and outcomes.
• Experience items reflect a progressive career track that highlights an expanding skill set and increasing responsibilities.

Example 2: Demonstrate ms excel in the summary section

• The summary explicitly states the applicant's years of experience, showcasing longevity and commitment in their field.
• Technical prowess in Excel is demonstrated through concrete examples: advanced formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis rather than overused phrases like "proficient in Excel".
• A significant professional accomplishment is highlighted, underlining the applicant's capacity to contribute tangibly to cost-saving measures.
• By focusing on specific achievements and skills rather than abstract qualities, the summary presents the applicant as a candidate with a practical and valuable skill set.
• Active verbs and direct language are used to maintain clarity and straightforwardness, avoiding the pitfall of vagueness and cliches.
• The summary has a clear structure, making it easy to follow and understand, which is a reflection of the organizational skills that are necessary for someone adept at Excel.

Example 3: Demonstrate ms excel in the achievements section

• Real results are presented clearly, showing measurable improvements.
• Provides specific examples of how Excel skills impacted real work situations.
• Uses concise and clear language appropriate for a professional resume.
• Focuses on the impact and outcomes rather than vague tasks performed.
• Quantifiable achievements demonstrate value and competence in using Excel.

If you're aiming to demonstrate your Excel proficiency, the right certification can provide evidence of your skills to potential employers.

The top 5 certifications for gaining ms excel skills expertise:

• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS): Excel – Certiport This certification showcases your ability to use Excel proficiently, covering tasks like creating and managing worksheets, working with formulas and functions, and utilizing Excel data analysis tools.
• Microsoft Office Specialist Expert (MOS Expert): Excel – Certiport Geared for advanced users, this certification focuses on complex Excel features such as managing and sharing workbooks, applying custom formats and layouts, and creating advanced formulas.
• Microsoft Office Specialist Master (MOS Master) – Certiport As a comprehensive certification, the MOS Master includes Excel among other Office programs and demonstrates a complete mastery of the Microsoft Office suite capabilities.
• Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) – INFORMS This credential goes beyond basic Excel use, highlighting expertise in analytics, data interpretation, and the application of data-driven decision-making processes in business contexts.
• Excel Skills for Business Specialization – Coursera provided by Macquarie University This online learning series helps build foundational and advanced Excel competencies, including data analysis, using pivot tables, and mastering Excel formulas, to flourish in a business setting.

Top skills people add together with ms excel skill on resume:

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Data Analysis

Financial Modeling

Statistical Analysis

VBA Programming

Data Visualization

Database Management

Project Management

Attention to Detail

Critical Thinking

Problem Solving

Time Management

Organizational Skills

Communication

Adaptability

Analytical Thinking

Decision Making

• Data Analyst - Excel is essential for data analysis, including sorting data, using formulas, and creating visualizations.
• Administrative Assistant - These professionals use Excel for organizing schedules, managing spreadsheets, and tracking data.
• Financial Analyst - They rely on Excel to forecast financial trends and analyze financial data.
• Accountant - Accountants use Excel for bookkeeping, financial reporting, and auditing activities.
• Project Manager - Excel helps in tracking project timelines, resources, and budgets.
• Business Analyst - They utilize Excel for modeling business scenarios and improving business processes.
• Operations Manager - Management of operational data, including inventory and logistics, often requires Excel proficiency.
• Marketing Analyst - Excel is used for analyzing market data and measuring campaign performance.
• Human Resources Coordinator - They use Excel to manage employee records and analyze workforce data.
• Sales Manager - Tracking sales performance, setting targets, and analyzing sales data are common Excel tasks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel can enhance your resume by showcasing valuable data management and analysis skills.
• Common misuses of Excel include over-reliance on it for tasks better suited to other applications and underutilizing its features—effective training can prevent these issues.
• To effectively display your Excel skills on your resume, provide specific examples of how you've used it in past roles, including any relevant achievements or efficiencies gained.

• Resume Skills

How to Research a Company for an Interview in 6 Easy Steps

How to beat the applicant tracking system, are photos on your resume unprofessional [expert advice], resume for 10 years of experience, 8 example situational interview questions and their answers, how to answer the "how did you hear about this job" interview question.

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How (and What) to Name Your Resume File

3 key takeaways

• Your resume file name holds a surprising amount of importance in your job search.
• A clear and concise file name will include three specific details.
• Teal's Resume Builder can help you easily track and manage all of the different versions of your resume.

As a job seeker, your resume is often your first impression. But what’s your resume’s first impression? Put simply, what’s the very first thing hiring managers see when they decide to open and review your document?

It’s your resume file name. That seemingly inconsequential job search detail carries a surprising amount of weight in getting your resume noticed—and making a good impression when that happens.

This guide digs into the details of why your resume’s file name matters, what makes for a good resume file name, examples to show you the way, and plenty more.

Keep track of all your resume versions with Teal's   resume creator . Stay organized, avoid confusion, and send the right document with every application.

Why your resume file name matters

Understandably, you focus a lot of time, energy, and attention on the content of your resume. From including relevant keywords to polishing every last letter, the meat of your resume is where the bulk of the work happens.

That makes it easy to overlook the importance of what you name your resume file. But, taking a nonchalant approach to file names increases confusion and can also hinder your chances of success in your job search.

Your resume file name is important because it:

• Helps you get noticed: While hiring professionals searching an applicant tracking system (ATS) are generally more focused on the content of your resume, a clear and professional file name can work in your favor. It ensures your resume is easily identifiable—potentially giving you a slight edge in the initial screening process.
• Keeps you more organized: An adequate file name not only makes your resume easier to find for a hiring manager but also for you personally. When you’re applying for multiple positions, you quickly end up with a desktop covered in different resume documents. Naming them clearly helps you find and send the correct resume to the correct employer.
• Demonstrates professionalism : The job listing might note a specific file name for candidates to use. Honoring those directions shows your keen attention to detail. Additionally, a clean and consistent file name format (one you use not only for your resume but for your cover letter and other application materials) helps you make your most polished and professional impression.

What to name your resume: Resume file naming best practices

You’re convinced that when you make a resume your file name matters, but how do you get it right? Here’s what you need to know to name your resume file and stand out (in a good way) during the hiring process.

Resume file name template

Here’s the first question most candidates have: What information should you include in your resume file name? This can vary based on the employer and whether or not they noted specific directions in the job description.

In general, your file name should include:

• Your first and last name
• The job title you’re applying for
• The word “resume”

Those three key pieces of information immediately tell the employer who you are, what you’re applying for, and what your document is—without them even having to open your resume and review all the words.

The single most important aspect of your resume file name is your name. So, list that first and separate words with a hyphen or underscore.

Here’s a resume file name template you can follow:

[First Name]_[Last Name]_[Job Title]_[Resume]

‍ And here’s an example of what that template looks like when it’s filled in for a candidate named John Smith:

John_Smith_Senior_Software_Engineer_Resume

You can use that same format for your cover letter and other application materials. You’ll simply swap the word “resume” to indicate the content of the document:

John_Smith_Senior_Software_Engineer_Cover_Letter John_Smith_Senior_Software_Engineer_Work_Samples

For both your resume and cover letter, your file name will also have an extension at the end, such as .pdf, .doc, or .docx, to indicate your resume’s file type. When in doubt, a resume PDF is your safest bet for your file format.

Resume file naming tips

Following that simple template goes a long way in writing a clear and concise file name, but here are a few more tips to treat your file name as a small but powerful detail that can separate you from other applicants.

Read the application directions carefully

In some cases, employers detail specific instructions for how they want you to name your resume. They might need that to comply with their computer systems or make it easier for them to track job applications. For example, they could ask you to include a job identification number rather than a position title. Follow those directions to the letter. Your file name isn’t your opportunity to get creative.

Avoid special characters

You can use underscores or hyphens to separate pieces of information. But beyond that, avoid other special characters and emojis. They not only clutter your file name but also could make your resume incompatible with different computer systems employers use.

Keep it concise

Ideally, your resume file name should be around five words. A lengthy file name like “Jane_Smith_Sales_Territory_Manager_Resume_CompanyXYZ_ID29847_08-21-2024.pdf” is overwhelming and difficult to read. The only time your file name should be this long is if the employer specifically asked you to include all of this information.

How to name your resume file

When you’ve landed on the right name for your resume, it’s time to figure out how to actually change and save your resume’s file name. Here’s how.

How to name a resume file in Microsoft Word

If you’ve created your resume as a Word document, you’ll name your resume when you save it:

• Click “File” > “Save As”
• Enter your resume file name in the “Save As” field
• Select your desired file format and where you want your resume saved on your computer

How to name a resume file in Google Docs

In Google Docs, click the title bar at the very top of the page (it’ll say “Untitled document” if you haven’t previously entered a title). Type in your file name information, and it will save automatically.

Alternatively, you can click “File” and “Rename” to edit the name of your document.

How to name an existing resume file on a desktop

Already saved your resume document to your desktop? Don’t worry—it’s still easy to change the file name. Right click on the document, select “Rename,” and then type in the new name of your file.

How to name a resume file using a resume builder

Naming or renaming a resume file in Teal’s Resume Builder is straightforward. Press the button to create a new resume or open one of your existing resumes. Click the title at the top of the page and then enter your information. 

When you export your Teal resume as a PDF, it will automatically export using the name you’ve set there. Additionally, naming your resumes clearly makes it way easier to identify specific resume versions on your master list of resumes.

Examples of good and bad resume file names

Here’s a look at some examples of well-written resume file names—as well as some that will inevitably make employers roll their eyes.

Well-named resume files

Why it works: This resume file name incorporates all of the best practices. It showcases the candidate’s full name first, lists the exact position title as it appears in the job description, incorporates the word “resume,” and separates information with underscores (rather than other special characters).

Why it works: This example includes the applicant’s full name and the word “resume” for clarity. However, this hypothetical job listing asked candidates to include the job ID number in the file name rather than the position title—and this candidate honored the employer’s directions.

Poorly-named resume files

What to fix: While this file name includes the word “resume,” it skips other pertinent information like the applicant’s name and the position title. Additionally, it includes unnecessary information the employer doesn’t need (like the date and time the resume was created), and details aren’t clearly separated.

‍ What to fix: All of the must-have details are there, but this resume file name is way too long and includes far too much information. Additionally, it incorporates special characters that might be unreadable by different platforms. The only reason your file name should be this long is if the employer explicitly asked you to include all of this information when naming your document.

How to manage multiple resume files

When you’re job searching, it’s not long before you end up with dozens of different resume files and versions in a jumbled mess on your desktop—many of which are only slightly different from each other.

Fortunately, Teal’s Resume Builder with version management makes it way easier to track and manage all of your resume documents.

In Teal, you can:

• Use the checkboxes to quickly add or remove information from a resume—rather than starting from scratch each time.

• Easily duplicate a resume that you can adjust and name accordingly.

• Automatically update different versions of your resume when working on one of your files. For example, if you change your address, you can apply that update across all of your resumes within Teal. Learn more in this video tutorial .

• See all of your resumes listed in one spot. You can see all of your file names as well as other information, like the job you wrote the resume for and the date you created it. Sort your different resumes by clicking the arrows on the column titles.

Use Teal to manage your resumes with more clarity and less chaos

It’s easy for your file name to become an afterthought when writing your resume. But that seemingly trivial detail can have a huge impact on a prospective employer’s perceptions and your own ability to stay organized.

Use this guide to choose the right file names for your resumes, and you’ll set yourself up for a far more successful (and less stressful) job search. 

Tracking and managing your resume files doesn’t need to be so complicated. Get started with Teal for free today .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best file name for a resume.

The best resume file name is one that follows the employer’s specific directions. If the employer doesn’t offer explicit instructions, your resume’s file name should include your full name, the job title, and the word “resume.”

How do I save a resume file name?

How you save your resume file name depends on what program your resume’s file was created in. In Word, you’ll click “File” and “Save As” to name your resume. In a Google Doc or in Teal’s resume builder, click the title of the document and edit accordingly.

How do you name the file of your resume?

Closely review the job posting to see if the employer included any file name instructions. Name your document using those directions or general best practices by saving it or renaming it.

Kat Boogaard

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Sample Resumes

Sample resume templates.

A resume is the most important tool for job application . It is not possible to apply for a job without a resume. Thus, building this essential tool for job application should be a careful approach. For that reason, you need to write a resume in a professional way. Many people do not know the art to write a good resume; they can select online free resume builder. Another alternative way is downloading Sample Resumes and writing resume following that sample.

Sample Resumes Sample Templates

Sample scrum master resume - 8+ examples in pdf, sample quality assurance resume - 9+ examples in word, pdf.

Download Sample Resume Bundle

Resume For High School Students

Jane Doe 123 Maple Street Springfield, IL 62704 [email protected] (555) 123-4567

Objective Enthusiastic and dedicated high school junior with a strong passion for environmental science seeking a summer internship to gain hands-on experience in environmental research and conservation efforts. Brings commitment, leadership, and a willingness to contribute to meaningful projects.

Education Springfield High School, Springfield, IL Expected Graduation: May 2025 GPA: 3.8

Achievements

• Honor Roll for four consecutive semesters.
• Second place in the Illinois State Science Fair 2023 with a project on the effects of pollution on local ecosystems.
• Co-founder and president of the high school’s environmental club, leading several successful community clean-up projects.

Experience Volunteer Coordinator – Springfield Community Center, Springfield, IL June 2023 – August 2023

• Organized weekly volunteering events, including local park clean-ups and recycling drives, engaging over 30 participants each time.
• Coordinated with local businesses to sponsor environmental awareness campaigns, increasing community participation by 25%.

Volunteer Work Tutor – Springfield Literacy Program, Springfield, IL September 2022 – Present

• Tutor underprivileged elementary school students in math and science, helping improve their test scores by an average of 20%.
• Developed interactive learning materials that enhanced students’ interest in science.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Effective communication and teamwork skills
• Basic knowledge of Python and environmental data analysis

Extracurricular Activities

• President of the Environmental Club, leading initiatives on sustainability and conservation.
• Member of the varsity tennis team, contributing to team strategy and mentoring younger players.
• Active participant in the school’s science club, organizing guest speaker events and science workshops.

Certifications

• CPR and First Aid Certified by the American Red Cross, March 2023
• Introduction to Python Programming, Certificate of Completion, Coursera, July 2023

References Available upon request.

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Sample Resume For Nurse

Alexandra M. Johnson 456 Healthway Drive Nursingtown, PA 54321 [email protected] (555) 234-5678

Professional Summary Compassionate and dedicated Registered Nurse with over 5 years of experience in providing high-quality patient care in hospital and clinical settings. Skilled in patient assessment, developing nursing care plans, medication administration, and emergency care. Committed to improving patient health outcomes and fostering a supportive environment for patients, families, and staff.

Licenses and Certifications

• Registered Nurse (RN), Pennsylvania, License #PARN123456
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certified
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Certified

Education Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA Graduated: May 2016

Clinical Experience Registered Nurse – Philadelphia General Hospital, Philadelphia, PA July 2016 – Present

• Provided comprehensive nursing care to patients in the emergency room, managing caseloads of up to 20 patients per shift.
• Conducted thorough patient assessments, developed and implemented individualized care plans, and monitored patient progress.
• Administered medications, performed wound care, and assisted with life-saving procedures under physician supervision.
• Educated patients and families on disease management, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, significantly improving patient satisfaction scores.
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure optimal patient care, resulting in a 15% decrease in hospital readmission rates.

Staff Nurse – Sunnydale Long-Term Care Facility, Nursingtown, PA May 2016 – July 2016

• Assisted in the daily care of elderly patients, providing support with hygiene, nutrition, and mobility.
• Monitored vital signs and symptoms, reporting any changes to the attending nurse or physician.
• Played a key role in patient and family education sessions, promoting health and wellness.
• Maintained a clean and safe environment for patients and staff by adhering to infection control policies.
• Strong clinical skills in emergency care, patient assessment, and wound care
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in electronic health record (EHR) systems, including Epic
• Ability to work effectively in fast-paced, high-stress environments
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach to nursing care

Professional Affiliations

• Member, American Nurses Association
• Member, Emergency Nurses Association

Resume For Job Application

Jordan Smith 789 Maple Lane Hometown, NY 12345 [email protected] (555) 321-9876

Objective Detail-oriented and analytical finance professional with over 3 years of experience in financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning. Seeking to leverage expertise in data analysis and financial forecasting to contribute to the financial success of XYZ Corporation. Known for excellent problem-solving skills and a strong ability to think strategically.

Education Master of Science in Finance Columbia University, New York, NY Graduated: May 2019

Bachelor of Arts in Economics University of Rochester, Rochester, NY Graduated: May 2017

Professional Experience Financial Analyst – ABC Financial Services, New York, NY July 2019 – Present

• Developed and implemented financial models for forecasting, variance analysis, and long-term financial planning, leading to a 10% reduction in unforeseen expenses.
• Conducted comprehensive analysis on financial performance, trends, and forecasts, which contributed to strategic decision-making and a 15% increase in profitability over two years.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to prepare annual budgets, resulting in an optimized allocation of resources and a 5% decrease in operational costs.
• Provided analytical support for the negotiation of 5 major contracts, ensuring favorable terms and a 20% increase in cost savings.

Intern, Finance Department – DEF Corporation, Rochester, NY June 2017 – August 2018

• Assisted in the preparation of monthly financial reports and analysis, improving the accuracy of financial data presented to management.
• Supported the finance team in managing and reconciling accounts payable and receivable, enhancing the efficiency of financial operations.
• Participated in the annual budgeting process, gaining insights into effective financial planning and cost management strategies.
• Proficient in financial modeling and forecasting
• Advanced skills in Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and macros
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proficient in financial software, including QuickBooks and SAP
• Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) – Level II Candidate
• Advanced Excel for Finance Professionals Certificate
• Member, Association for Financial Professionals (AFP)
• Member, CFA Institute

Sample Resume For Teacher

Eleanor Rigby 123 Harmony Road Educatorstown, ED 45678 [email protected] (555) 678-1234

Objective Passionate and dedicated Elementary School Teacher with over 6 years of experience fostering a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for diverse student populations. Specializes in creating engaging curriculum and innovative teaching strategies to enhance student learning and academic performance. Aiming to leverage my expertise in curriculum development and student assessment at Pine Grove Elementary School.

Education Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction State University of New York, Albany, NY Graduated: June 2018

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Boston University, Boston, MA Graduated: May 2015

• New York State Teaching Certification in Elementary Education, Grades 1-6
• Certified Reading Specialist

Professional Experience Elementary School Teacher – Sunnyside Elementary School, Educatorstown, ED September 2018 – Present

• Designed and implemented lesson plans for a 4th-grade class of 30 students, resulting in a 20% improvement in reading and math standardized test scores.
• Integrated technology into the classroom with tools such as Smart Boards and tablets, enhancing student engagement and learning experiences.
• Collaborated with colleagues to develop a school-wide initiative on inclusive education, which significantly improved the integration of students with special needs.
• Led after-school tutoring program for students requiring extra help, which contributed to noticeable improvements in academic performance and self-confidence.

Student Teacher – Maplewood Elementary School, Boston, MA September 2017 – June 2018

• Assisted in teaching a diverse classroom of 25 students in 3rd grade, focusing on mathematics and science.
• Developed and executed interactive learning activities, which were later adopted school-wide due to their effectiveness in student engagement.
• Participated in parent-teacher conferences, establishing strong communication channels between school and home.
• Proficient in curriculum development and assessment
• Strong classroom management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Skilled in integrating technology into learning
• Fluent in Spanish and English

Professional Development

• Workshop on Differentiated Instruction, SUNY, 2019
• Seminar on Classroom Technology Integration, Boston University, 2017
• Member, National Education Association
• Member, New York State Teachers’ Association

Browse More Templates On Sample Resume

High school resume template.

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Web Developer Resume Template

Professional Resume Template

Tips For Writing a Resume

Writing a compelling resume is crucial for capturing the attention of hiring managers and securing job interviews. Here are eight tips to help you craft an effective resume:

• Tailor Your Resume to the Job : Customize your resume for each job application . Highlight the experiences and skills that are most relevant to the job description. This shows employers that you’re attentive to what they’re looking for and that you’ve taken the time to understand how your background fits their needs.
• Use a Clear and Professional Format : Ensure your resume is easy to read by using a clean, professional format. Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Use bullet points to list your experiences and achievements, and make sure there is plenty of white space on the page to make it look uncluttered.
• Include a Summary Statement : Start with a brief summary that encapsulates your professional background, key skills, and what you can bring to the role. This section should be tailored to each job you apply for, reflecting how your skills and experiences align with the job description.
• Highlight Achievements, Not Just Duties : Instead of just listing the duties of your past jobs, highlight your achievements. Use specific examples and quantify your accomplishments when possible (e.g., “increased sales by 20%” or “managed a team of 10 people”). This demonstrates your effectiveness and impact in previous roles.
• Use Keywords From the Job Description : Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. These systems scan resumes for keywords from the job description. Make sure to include relevant keywords throughout your resume to ensure it passes through the ATS and reaches a human reviewer.
• Include Relevant Education and Training : List your highest level of education, including the degree obtained, the institution’s name, and the graduation date. If you have certifications or have completed relevant training courses, include these as well.
• Edit and Proofread : Typos and grammatical errors can make a negative impression on employers. Carefully proofread your resume several times, and consider asking a friend or a professional to review it as well. This can help catch errors you might have overlooked.
• Use Professional Contact Information : Ensure that your contact information is up to date and professional. Use an email address that looks professional (ideally, one that includes your name), and make sure your phone number and any relevant professional networking profiles (like LinkedIn) are included and correct.

Following these tips can help you create a more appealing and effective resume, increasing your chances of getting noticed by employers and landing job interviews.

Experience Resume Template

Business Resume Template

Sample Accountant Resume Template

Size: 28 KB

This sample resume has been crafted for those, who want to apply for a job of an accountant. You can follow this resume structure and writing style to create your own unique and attractive professional bio-data.

Sample Administrator Resume Template

Size: 298 KB

The job of administration is vast, and such persons are required to have multitasking talents along with various other skills. Your resume should reveal your skills neatly, and for that use this template to craft your own resume.

How Do I Write My Own Resume?

Writing your own resume is a crucial step in the job search process. Your resume is essentially a marketing tool that showcases your qualifications, skills, and experience to potential employers. Crafting an effective simple resume involves several key steps:

1. Choose the Right Format:

• There are various resume formats to choose from, such as chronological, functional, and combination (hybrid). Select the format that best highlights your strengths and aligns with your career goals.

2. Contact Information:

• Include your full name, phone number, email address, and, optionally, your LinkedIn profile or personal website if they are professionally relevant.

3. Career Objective or Summary:

• Write a concise career objective or  summary statement  that highlights your career goals and what you bring to the table. Make it tailored to the job you’re applying for.

4. Education:

• List your educational qualifications in reverse chronological order. Include the degree earned, institution, graduation date, and any honors or awards received.

5. Work Experience:

• Detail your work experience, focusing on relevant roles. Include the job title, the name of the employer, dates of employment, and a bulleted list of responsibilities and achievements.
• Enumerate your relevant skills, both hard and soft. This section can include technical skills, languages, certifications, and any other competencies that set you apart.

7. Achievements:

• Highlight your achievements in each job you’ve held. Use action verbs and quantifiable results to make your accomplishments stand out.

8. Tailor Your Resume:

• Customize your resume for each job application. Match your qualifications to the specific requirements of the job posting. Emphasize the skills and experiences that align with the role.

9. Be Concise:

• Keep your resume concise and to the point. Aim for a length of one page for entry-level to mid-level positions and up to two pages for senior roles.

10. Use Keywords:

• Incorporate relevant keywords from the job posting. Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, and keywords can help your resume pass through ATS filters.

11. Proofread and Edit:

• Carefully proofread your resume for typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies. It’s also helpful to have someone else review it for feedback.

12. Formatting and Design:

• Ensure that your resume is well-organized and easy to read. Use a professional and legible font, consistent formatting, and bullet points to make it visually appealing.

13. Achievements over Responsibilities:  –

• Focus on achievements rather than just listing job responsibilities. Highlight how you contributed to your previous employers’ success.

14. Be Honest:  –

• Always be truthful in your resume. Misrepresenting qualifications or experiences can have negative consequences.

15. Proof of Claims:

• If you claim certain skills or qualifications, be prepared to provide evidence during interviews or assessments.

16. Seek Professional Help:

• If you’re struggling to write an effective resume, consider seeking help from a professional resume writer or using online resume builders and templates.

17. Continuous Improvement:

• Keep your resume up to date, adding new achievements and skills as they develop in your career.

Sample Agriculture Resume Template

Size: 146 KB

Are you looking forward to applying for a job in agriculture communication sector? Try this sample resume to make your job application unique as well as attention grabbing. This well crafted and professional resume will definitely help you to find a good job.

Sample Collector Resume Template

To apply for a collector’s job, you need to write a professional resume , featuring your skills and potentials for handling the job with precision. Use this sample resume to follow a standard structure and professional writing tone to craft your own CV.

Sample Contractor Resume Template

A contractor quote has been recruited for a special time oriented job through the interviewing process. In order to make a good impression on the employer, you can use this sample resume to create your professional resume.

Sample Dentist Resume Template

Size: 11 KB

In order to apply for the job of dentist in reputed healthcare centers or dental clinics, you need to undergo an interview process. Get an excellent advantage in an interview process with this sample dentist resume.

Sample Director Resume Template

Size: 122 KB

Fresh recruitment as a business director is a complicated process. To find good business directors, resumes are often checked with precision. To create an impressive resume, you can follow the writing style of this sample director resume.

Sample Editor Resume Template

Size: 120 KB

To apply for the job of an editor, you definitely need to have insightful technical knowledge. But, along with that, you need to have a good resume to create a first good impression in the minds of potential employers. You can use this sample resume for that purpose statement .

Sample Experienced Resume Template

Size: 282 KB

This sample resume is suitable for any experienced personnel, who want to apply for a new job analysis in a new company. It features experience and professional achievements.

Sample Guard Resume Template

Size: 427 KB

You can apply for a position of a security guard with this properly formatted and simple looking resume template or sample. The document is available in PDF format, and it is customizable.

Sample Lawyer Resume Template

This sample resume is for those, who want to apply for the job of a lawyer for a company. Follow the structure and format of this resume to create an attention-grabbing resume.

Sample Management Resume Template

Size: 15 KB

Management jobs are growing and with various emerging businesses new scopes for management jobs are opening up. To take advantage of this scenario, you need a good resume to apply for the post of manager. Use this resume sample to apply for management review related job.

Sample Student Resume Template

Size: 296 KB

Students can use this resume sample to create their own bio-data. To apply for higher studies or to apply for the job of a research analysis fellowship, students require a well-structured resume. Use this resume sample to create a resume, featuring your competence and educational achievements.

Sample Professor Resume Template

Size: 46 KB

If you want to apply for the job of a professor to a college or institution or university, you need to have a perfectly written resume. This resume sample is customizable and easy to be printed.

Sample Researcher Resume Template

Size: 702 KB

Available in PDF format, this sample resume is crafted for the researchers. If you are applying for a job of a researcher, you can surely craft an excellent resume with this sample or template.

Sample Animator Resume Template

Size: 436 KB

As an animator, you need to show you skills and achievements through your professional resume, while applying for the job. For that purpose, simply use this resume sample. It is formatted neatly and written in engaging professional tone.

Sample Architect Resume Template

Size: 370 KB

If you want to apply for the job of an architect, instead of going for cheap as well as erroneous online resume builders just choose this free resume sample. Use the sample to write your own professional bio-data.

Sample Designer Resume Template

As a designer, you need to apply for a job with a strong and interesting resume. It is important to showcase your works or portfolio, but the first impression will be created by your resume. So, craft your CV with precision, following this sample format.

Sample Engineering Resume Template

To apply for the job of engineering in any field, like civil or mechanical, you can use this resume example to craft your own unique Curriculum Vitae . The sample follows a standardized structure and professional tone of writing.

Sample Receptionist Resume Template

Size: 55 KB

A job for a receptionist is always competitive. You need to come out with a powerful resume to qualify for the job of receptionist. Use this template to build your resume and get the much-required attention of the potential employers.

Sample Sales Resume Template

Size: 85 KB

A sales executive needs to build his or her resume with perfection. It should look professional and it should include all your achievements as a sales executive. To build a powerful resume, using this free PDF sample can prove to be effective and time-saving.

Sample Internship/Trainee Resume Template

Build a simple yet professional looking resume within the quickest frame of time with this sample internship or trainee resume. This resume is available in printable PDF format, and you can customize it as per your requirements.

Sample Graduate Resume Template

Size: 654 KB

Build your own resume after your graduation programs  with the help of this excellent sample or template for CV. Using this template will save your time, and at the same time, you will be able to create a professional CV.

Sample Entry Level Resume Template

For entry level employees, it is important to build their own resume in perfect format. This sample resume comes with simple and short structure. It maintains professional tone so that employers can find it interesting.

Sample Fresher Resume Template

Size: 128 KB

General Student Resume Template

Size: 84 KB

Fresher generally struggles to write a good resume. They should opt for online resume sample to craft their professional bio-data. It does not only save time, but also make the resume powerful enough to impress the potential employers.

What is the Purpose of Writing a Resume?

A Sample Resume is considered as an important professional document, which is often analyzed by the employers to find the strength, weakness, and compatibility of the job applicants. Ideally, it should reflect skills of the job applicant for a particular job role. Employers use resumes to screen the most skilled and qualified job applicants. After screening, they are called for an interview so that recruitment process can be completed.

So, resume plays an important role in the first phase of job selection process. To qualify for the interview round for a job, you need to craft your resume with perfection. A resume is also a professional document that you can send to potential employers.

How to write a Professional Resume?

A Professional Resume has to be written with precision, and it often comes with a proper structure. Without proper structuring, resume carries zero values. Ideally, a resume starts with the name of the person and a few personal details about the person, like address, phone number, email address, etc.

It is absolutely important to enter the contact details with perfection so that potential employers can communicate with you without facing hassles when they would require hiring someone for their companies. After personal details and name, a resume should talk about the person’s professional objective or goals. It should be a precise statement, but at the same time it should be powerful and attention grabbing.

What are the Common Mistakes that People make while Writing a Resume?

Though Microsoft Resume is an important tool for applying for a job, people make a lot of mistakes in writing their resume. Different people make different types of mistakes, and some mistakes can lead to costly consequences. Even after having full potential, people fail to create impressions in the minds of employers due to bad quality resume or curriculum vitae. The commonest error of writing resume is not including contact details.

Even if the employer likes your resume, he cannot communicate with your due to this silly error. Many people do not type the phone number or contact details properly. You should take adequate time to craft it with precision and passion. It helps to avoid possible chances of errors too. Grammatical mistakes are also considered to be costly errors. A resume should not appear to be fake rather it should look genuine.

How to Craft Better Resumes?

The reason for writing resume is qualifying for a particular job, offered by an employer. There are many things that make a resume good enough to grab the attention of the potential employers. Knowing these things or factors with perfection will help writing better resumes. So, basically writing a resume is an art. You need to master the skills to practice this art. A professional resume should include all important details of a person or job applicant. Including everything does not mean including the unnecessary stuff.

Rather including unnecessary information creates bad impressions in the minds of the potential employers. A resume should be written for a particular job. For example, you cannot use a resume written for accountant’s job for the purpose of applying for web or graphic designer’s job. Every resume should look and feel unique as well as authentic. Keeping things simple and lucid is important.

Why Should you use Resume Samples?

As stated in above sections, a professional resume should come with a proper format and size. Not just writing tone, but the formatting is considered as very important for resume writing. Overall, it can be said that writing resume is not an easy job. It is not difficult, but not as easy as we often perceive. Many people opt for writing resume just before the night of going to the interview. Writing resume without preparations and within a rush will surely lead to poor results. You may also see  College Graduate Resumes

When employer will find your resume has been written non-professionally, they will turn down your job application sample. In spite of having professional competence and educational abilities for the job role, you shall miss the opportunity to crack the job. In order to get importance with your job application, your resume should be crafted in utmost professional style. Downloading free resume sample could be effective in doing that. Using resume examples makes the job of writing resume easier as well as more effective.

What are the Common Myths with Resume Writing?

Resume writing is not an easy job – at least not as easy as we often consider it. It can be a little confusing at time, and a lot of myths with resume writing have further made things quite complicated. In order to learn the art of writing CV or Resume, you need to know the myths that are connected with resume writing. Learning them and avoiding them will help you to create better and attention-grabbing resume. You may also see  Designer Resumes

For example, the common myth is that a resume has to be short. It is obvious that resume needs to be short and precise. But, the important thing is stuffing all necessary information. If stuffing information makes resume 2-3 pages, then there is no problem with that as long as your resume furnishes important and relevant information. Many people think writing hobbies is a special advantage. Well for a few jobs that true, but unnecessarily stretching hobbies column looks nonprofessional. You may also see  Software Developer Resumes .

How do I write my own resume?

To write your resume, choose the right format, include contact information, a career objective, education, work experience, skills, and achievements. Tailor it to the job you’re applying for.

What resume format is best?

The best resume format depends on your career history. Chronological is common for steady career progression, while functional highlights skills. A combination format offers flexibility.

Can a resume be 2 pages?

Yes, a resume can be two pages, especially for candidates with extensive work experience. It’s crucial to keep the content relevant and impactful.

At the conclusion, it can be said that only a few people have mastered the art of writing their professional Bio-data or Resume. However, a resume is an essential tool for everyone. Without a good resume, you would not be able to qualify for a good job. Thus, to build your resume with a precision you can use basic resume samples or templates.

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Free Resume Templates

Download in Word, Google Docs, PDF 

Today is a great day to level up your resume.  Free resume templates in every style, format, and design you can imagine. 

Discover 180+ Resume Templates

Professional Resume Templates

Professional resume templates for job seekers with ample work experience. Showcase your skills and qualifications. Browse our best free resume templates to give your resume the glow-up it deserves. 

• Sleek, functional layout 
• “Sells” you as a strong candidate
• Suitable for all job titles 

Modern Resume Templates

Modern resume templates for Microsoft Word provide stylish, crisp, fresh design elements that will help you grab a recruiter’s attention in just six seconds. The right resume template for candidates in the tech and startup industry. 

• Chronological resume templates
• Made for readability and skimming
• Instant, free download

Simple and Basic Resume Templates

Uncluttered editable resume template with minimal styling. Choose a time-tested basic resume design to avoid any faux pas with employers or applicant screening software. 

• Editable and printable resume design 
• Easy customization in Word 
• Suitable for all resume formats

Creative Resume Templates

Don’t want a bland, blank resume template? These creative resume templates offer a perfectly balanced mix of personality, professionalism, and playfulness to make a strong first impression. 

• Free editable resume templates
• Unique personal branding
• Creative layout and formatting

Free CV Templates

Professional CV templates, perfectly suited for academic and federal jobs in the US and any type of job application in Europe. An impactful selection of the best CV templates with proper layout and formatting. 

• Full CV layout and formatting
• User-friendly design 
• Instant download CV templates 

ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

Clean and compelling resume design that sits well with applicant tracking software and hiring managers alike. Optimized fonts, clear formatting syntax, and optimal layout for readability.  

• Compatible with popular ATSs 
• One-column layout 
• Suitable for all experience levels 

Resume Templates With Photo

Put a face behind the name to make a memorable first impression. Resume templates with photos to land a dream job in acting, modeling, or creative professions. 

• Editable headshot space
• Optimized section layout 
• Brandable styles 

How to Choose The Best  Resume Template? 

Not sure which resume design works for your profession? Go with a professional resume template if you’re an experienced worker applying via email. Or download a basic resume template if the company uses an ATS — this way, your resume won’t get filtered out. 

Gunning up for a job in a creative industry or a hip startup? Try out one of the modern resume templates or a creative resume design to give your job application a unique, brandable flair. Resume templates with photos also work great! 

Or better yet, test-drive several free resume templates to see which one gets you the most positive responses! 

Resume Templates for Different File Formats

Get a free editable resume template in your preferred format — Microsoft Word (.doc), PDF, or Google Docs. 

Free Word Resume Templates 

The best resume templates for Microsoft Word. Our most downloaded and top-rated designs in .doc and .docx format are the ones you have seen on this page until here, so make sure to scroll back to the top if MS Word format is what you are looking for.

Google Docs Resume Templates 

Discover attention-grabbing resume templates for Google Docs. Download and edit your new resume design in the cloud, then share it with others with one click. 

Free Resume in PDF 

Use our free tool to make a resume online in PDF format. Write your resume faster with contextual tips and instantly generate a PDF copy for free. No account is required. 

Check our free resume builder

Resume Templates By Professions 

Get done with writing faster by downloading a pre-filled resume template for your position. Take advantage of the pointers and sample texts created by a professional team of resume writers.

Our remarkable set of role-based resume templates includes the optimal visual layout paired with text snippets you can use to model your own resume.

How to Use Your Free Editable Resume Template 

• Select a design you fancy and download a free copy to your computer. 
• Open the template in Microsoft Word or Google Docs to personalize. 
• Fill in the blanks using your personal details. Refer to relevant resume examples for ideas and tips. 
• Review and edit your resume. Include strong verbs and adjectives to add persuasion. 
• Save and name your document: Resume – First name and Surname. 
• Create a PDF resume version to send via email. PDFs help avoid formatting issues. 

How To Write A Resume

A resume template is the best cure for the blank page syndrome. You’re halfway done — all that’s left is to fill in the blanks in the resume template and hit save. 

Select The Right Resume Format 

The 3 most popular resume formats are chronological, functional, and combination resumes. 

• Chronological resume organizes the information like LinkedIn does – from the latest position to the first one, with education, interests, and additional info listed later. It’s the most popular resume format, preferred for recruiters. Go for it unless you’re entry-level or changing careers. 
• Functional resume keeps the focus on your skills and experience, rather than employment history. It’s the go-to choice for candidates with employment gaps and those without much hands-on work experience.
• Combination resume takes the best of both worlds and allows you to spice up your “dry” employment history with some juicy details about your skill set and achievements. Startups and edgier companies may prefer this. 

Create a Compelling Summary 

A resume summary is a two-sentence statement highlighting your key qualifications, skills, and value proposition for the role. It sits in the header area, right after your name and contact details. Think of it as a teaser to a movie — you should put your most marketable skills upfront to immediately capture the hiring manager’s attention and get them interested in reading the full copy. 

Add Work History 

List your employers in reverse chronological order. Each entry should include the employment date, job title, company name, key responsibilities, and achievements listed in bullet format . Include 3 to 5 bullet points for each position. Don’t get long-winded — your resume must fit into one page. 

Include Marketable Resume Skills 

With skills-based hiring on the rise, you must demonstrate specific competencies rather than just tenure and educational credentials. Showcase your best hard and soft skills in a featured sidebar section, plus your resume summary and work experience entries.

Check the following posts for ideas:

• Business acumen skills for resume
• Critical thinking skills for a resume 
• Conceptual skills for a resume
• Leadership skills for a resume 
• Organizational skills for a resume 
• Technical skills for a resume  
• Childcare skills for resume 
• Nursing skills for a resume 
• Transferable skills for a resume 
• Retail skills for a resume  

List Education 

Unless you are a recent graduate, don’t dwell on this section too much. Simply list all your degrees (highest to lowest), the name of your educational institution, and your graduation date. But if you’re still in college, you can also add your GPA , dean’s list , or research .  

Learn more from our ultimate guide to writing, styling, and formatting a resume . 

FAQs about Resume Templates 

Your popular Qs about our free resume templates answered. 

How can I format my resume for free?

Download a free pre-formatted resume template from Freesumes.com in your preferred format (Word or Google Docs). Open a copy in the word processing software and edit the blank sections with personal details. Click save, and you’ll have a professionally formatted resume in no time.

Is there a truly free resume builder?

Yes, Freesumes resume builder is 100% free to use. No account registration is required. Using our free generator, you can make a resume in PDF using one of the six free templates and contextual writing prompts created by expert writers.

What is the most popular resume template?

The most popular resume templates are chronological resume templates. You can find several dozen popular, professional resume templates on Freesumes in Word and Google Doc formats. Our templates have been downloaded over 4 million times! 

How to get a free resume template?

Head to freesumes.com and check our collection of 180+ fabulously free resume templates in different styles and formats. Select a design you like and click the download button to get an instant free copy in .docx format without any account registration. 

Do employers not like resume templates?

Employers don’t mind resume templates as long as they are professionally made and properly formatted. A sloppy or too vivid design, however, will make you look amateurish. Choose a simple, well-structured resume template in neutral colors, and you’ll always get a positive impression from a prospective employer. 

Is it better to make your own resume or use a template?

This totally depends on you. If you have an eye for design and know information architecture best practices, you can make a stellar resume on your own. Otherwise, you can save heaps of time by using a premade professional resume template to avoid any mishaps with layout or font selection.