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If a job is a good one and pays well expect that there will be hundreds of applicants. And hiring managers or recruiters can make up their minds about a job candidate in only 7.4 seconds! If you want to stand out from other applicants and improve your chances of securing an interview you need to organize your resume layout effectively. In this way, it will catch the hiring managers eye prompting them to select your resume from the pile because they can easily find the most important information they are looking for at a glance.
Resume headings play a crucial role in organizing and presenting the information in your resume. They serve as clear signposts, guiding the reader through your qualifications, skills, and experience. Let's delve into their significance:
- Clear Structure: Resume headings create a well-organized structure, making it easier for hiring managers to navigate your document. A well-structured resume is more likely to capture their attention.
- Scannability: Hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) scan resumes quickly. Proper headings help them locate relevant details efficiently. Without clear headers, your resume might get overlooked.
- Professionalism: Well-defined headings demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail. They show that you've put effort into crafting a polished resume.
Here's how to effectively use resume headings:
- Format Your Resume Header:
- Start with a professional font.
- Make your name stand out with an appropriate font size.
- Include your contact information (phone number, email, LinkedIn profile).
- Lead with Your Overall Goal or Summary:
- Recent graduates can use a **career objective** instead of a professional summary.
- Experienced professionals may highlight their extensive work history in a summary.
- Title Your Work or Educational Background:
- If you're starting your career, list your education first with headings like "Educational Background" or "Education and Training."
- Highlight Your Skills with a Professional Heading:
- Create a section for your skills, using headings like "Skills" or "Core Competencies."
Below are resume headings I found from MyResume 4 years ago which I am using as a reference every time I apply for a new job.
Choose the resume headings most relevant to you.
Personal Information
- Personal Details
Personal Profile
- Career Profile
- Career Summary
- Personal Profile
- Personal Summary
- Professional Summary
- Professional Profile
Skills & Abilities
- Areas of Ability
- Areas of Experience
- Areas of Expertise
- Areas of Knowledge
- Career Skills Summary
- Certifications
- Computer Knowledge
- Computer Skills
- Core Competencies
- Core Competencies & Knowledge
- Core Strengths & Expertise
- Demonstrated Abilities
- Endorsements
- Key Competencies
- Key Knowledge Area
- Knowledge
- Language Competencies & Skills
- Leadership Skills
- Licenses
- Management Skills
- Personal Attributes
- Personal Strengths
- Professional Experience
- Professional Skills
- Professional Skills and Achievements
- Professional Skills & Experience
- Qualifications
- Relevant Skills
- Skills and Abilities
- Skills Summary
- Special Training
- Strengths
- Summary of Qualifications
- Technical Skills
Education
- Academic Achievement/History/Background
- Academic Training
- Academic Qualifications
- Additional Training
- Accreditations
- Certifications
- Conferences Attended
- Education
- Education Background
- Educational Preparation
- Educational Qualifications
- Educational Training
- Education and Training
- Examinations
- Job-Related Courses
- Licenses
- Professional
- Qualifications/Development/Training
- Qualifications
- Relevant Education and Training
- Short Courses
- Training Courses Attended
Employment
- Appointments
- Career History
- Career Background
- Course Project Experience
- Community Involvement
- Community Service
- Employment
- Employment
- History/Experience/Record/Background
- Experience
- Internship Experience
- Military Background
- Positions Held
- Professional Background
- Professional Employment
- Voluntary work
- Work Experience
- Work History
- Work Background
- Work Record
Awards & Special Achievements
- Academic Awards
- Achievements
- Accomplishments
- Awards
- Conference Papers Delivered
- Distinctions
- Fellowships
- Honors
- Portfolio
- Prizes
- Publications
- State Representation
- Scholarships
- Special Achievements & Awards
Memberships
- Professional, Social, Recreational
- Memberships
- Professional Affiliation/Memberships
- Positions of Responsibility Held
Activities
- Activities and Honours
- Affiliations
- Associations
- Athletic Involvement
- Civic Activities
- College Activities
- Community Activities
- Community Involvement
- Extra-Curricular Activities
- Hobbies/Interests/Activities/Leisure
- Professional Activities
- Professional Affiliations
- Professional Memberships
- Volunteer Work
Publications
- Articles/Books Published
- Conference Presentations
- Conventions
- Current Research Interests
- Exhibits
- Papers
- Presentations
- Professional Publications
- Publications
- Research Grants
- Research Projects
- Thesis
Additional Sections
- Drivers Licence
- Portfolio
- Referees
- References
- Related Courses
- Web Portfolio
- Writing Samples
- Letters of Recommendation
Remember, a well-organized resume with clear headings increases your chances of securing an interview. Craft your headings thoughtfully to make a strong impression!
Sources:
- Herrity, J. (2021, September 2). What is a strong resume headline? (30+ examples and tips) [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/what-is-a-resume-headline
- Indeed. (2021, September 2). Resume headings for listing your experience [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/resume-headings
- Indeed. (2021, September 2). How to write a resume header (with examples and tips) [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/resume-headers
- Indeed. (2021, November 11). How to write a resume heading (with template and examples) [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://au.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/resume-heading
- David, J., & Editor & Content Writer. (2023, June 1). 7 resume headers and sections you need (+ examples) [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.zipjob.com/blog/resume-headers-sections/