A resume is a formal document used to apply for a new job. It summarizes your professional background, skills, and contact information. Crafting a well-written resume provides your first impression to potential employers and can significantly influence their decision to invite you for an interview.

What to include in a CV Resume? (11 Steps)

Step 1: Contact Information

Begin with your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile or personal website if applicable.

Step 2: Professional Summary

Write a brief summary highlighting your career objectives and key skills, tailored to the position you’re applying for. Craft impactful sentences with strong action verbs. For example, instead of saying “Responsible for managing a team,” say “Led a team of 10 members, increasing project efficiency by 30%.”

Step 3: Work Experience

List your relevant work experience in reverse chronological order, including job titles, company names, and dates of employment. Use industry-specific jargon to demonstrate your familiarity with the field. This shows that you understand the industry and are fluent in its language.

Step 4: Education History

Include your degrees, schools attended, and graduation dates. Mention any honors or relevant coursework.

Step 5: Skills and Languages

Highlight specific skills that are relevant to the job, such as technical proficiencies, languages, or soft skills:
  • Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript
  • Database Management: SQL, MongoDB
  • Web Development: HTML/CSS, React, Angular
  • Software Proficiency: Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite
  • Network Administration: TCP/IP, DNS Management
  • Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Teamwork: Ability to work well in a collaborative environment
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities
  • Time Management: Efficiently managing multiple tasks and deadlines
  • Leadership: Experience in leading teams and projects
  • Adaptability: Ability to adjust to new challenges and environments
  • Multilingual Proficiency: Fluent in spoken and written languages (e.g., English, Spanish, Mandarin)
  • Translation Abilities: Capable of translating documents and conversations

Step 6: Certifications and Training Experience

List any relevant certifications or professional training that enhance your qualifications:
  • PMP (Project Management Professional): Demonstrates advanced knowledge and experience in project management
  • AWS (Amazon Web Services) Certification: Validates cloud computing skills and knowledge
  • Google Analytics Certification: Shows expertise in web analytics and data analysis
  • Six Sigma Green Belt: Indicates proficiency in Six Sigma methodologies for process improvement
  • CPR/First Aid Certification: Certifies ability to respond to medical emergencies
  • Inventory Management System: Developed a new system that reduced waste by 20%
  • Sales Growth: Led a team to increase sales by 35% over two quarters
  • Training Program: Implemented a program that cut onboarding time by 50%
  • Fundraising Success: Organized a fundraiser raising over $10,000 for local charities
  • Employee of the Year: Recognized for exceptional customer service and dedication

Step 7: Volunteer Experience

Include any volunteer work that showcases your skills or commitment to the community.

Step 8: Formatting and Styles

Use consistent font styles, sizes, and headings to make your CV visually appealing and easy to read:
  • Clean Design: A resume with a simple, professional design is easier to navigate.
  • Font Style: Use one font style throughout to maintain a cohesive appearance.
  • Font Size: Use 10-12 point font for the body and up to 14 point for headings.
  • Formatting: Apply bold and italic text sparingly to emphasize key points.
  • Margins: Standard margins are between 0.5″ to 1″ for a neat look.
  • Line Spacing: Use 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing for readability.
  • Bullet Points: Keep lists organized and easy to scan with bullet points.
  • Color: Use color strategically to highlight important sections and details.

Step 9: Tailor for Each Job

Customize your CV for each application, emphasizing the most relevant experience and skills for the specific role. Customize your resume to align with the job description. Use keywords and phrases from the job posting to ensure your resume passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catches the eye of hiring managers.

Step 10: Review and Proofread

Before submitting, meticulously proofread your resume to catch any typos, grammatical errors, or formatting inconsistencies. Ensure your resume is well-organized and easy to read. Use clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting to present your information effectively. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies to show professionalism:
  • Read Aloud: This helps identify awkward phrasing and run-on sentences.
  • Use Tools: Utilize proofreading tools like Grammarly or spell check for additional accuracy.
  • Attention to Detail: Small errors can impact your chances, so review carefully.

Step 11: Save and Export Document

Save your CV in multiple formats (PDF, Word) to ensure compatibility with various application systems.

How to create a standout CV Resume?

A well-crafted CV resume effectively communicates your career journey, showcasing your qualifications to help you stand out in the job market.

How to Make a Resume: Video Tutorial

Watch this video tutorial to guide you through the process of creating an effective resume, including tips and tricks to make yours shine.

Steps to Create a CV Resume

  1. Download the Resume Template: Choose from the provided templates in PDF or Microsoft Word format. You can also edit these forms in Google Docs for flexibility.
  2. Start with Personal Information: Clearly list your full name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
  3. Detail Your Education History: Include your degrees, institutions, and dates of graduation. Mention any honors or relevant coursework.
  4. Outline Your Work Experience: List your previous positions, including job titles, company names, and employment dates. Describe your responsibilities and achievements using quantifiable metrics.
  5. Add Additional Skills: Highlight any specific skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for, such as software proficiency or technical skills.
  6. Write a Personal Statement: Craft a brief paragraph that summarizes your qualifications, career goals, and why you’re a strong candidate for the position.

Sources

  1. investopedia.com
  2. indeed.com
  3. help.usajobs.gov
  4. archives.gov

Sample CV Resume Template

What to include in a resume cover page? (11 Steps)

Step 1: Design

Create a design from scratch or use a pre-made template – download our PDF resume cover page above.

Step 2: Title

Ensure your document cover page has a clear and concise title, with an optional subtitle for additional context.

Step 3: Author’s Name

Include the name of the author or creator of the document, if applicable.

Step 4: Date

Include the date of creation or publication of the document.

Step 5: Images Graphics

Consider adding relevant images, graphics, or a logo that reflects the document\’s content.

Step 6: Color

Choose a color or texture for the background that complements the design of your cover page.

Step 7: Formatting

Pay attention to font styles, sizes, and formatting to make the text and content visually appealing and easy to read.

Step 8: Alignment and Spacing

Ensure that all elements on the cover page are aligned correctly and adequate spacing between different components.

Step 9: Review and Proofread Alignment and Spacing

Double-check for any typos, errors, or inconsistencies in your cover page.

Step 10: Save and Export

Save your cover page as a separate file or include it as the first page of your document.

Step 11: Print or Attach

If you’re creating a physical document, you can print the cover page separately and attach it to the front of your paper. For digital documents, include the cover page as the first page of your file.

 

Cover Page Letter: Preview Example

This Employment Contract Agreement template is a document that lays out the basics of the job between the Employer and Employee. It covers the Employee’s responsibilities, salary details, and benefits like insurance, holidays, and vacation time. It also sets the working hours and location, along with the length of the contract, which starts when signed and doesn’t automatically renew.

Types of Forms

Key Elements of an Employment Contract Agreement

  • The agreement covers how either party can terminate it, confidentiality regarding work-related information, and who owns any ideas or creations that arise during employment.
  • It also states that the Employer can hire others for similar positions.
  • Legal procedures, like governing law and dispute resolution procedures.
  • Both parties signatures

Sample Employment Contract Agreement Template

Next →

A letter of recommendation, also known as a letter of reference, is a signed document that includes the performance, leadership, and work ethic of a persona person applying for the position.

Letter of Recommendation Example

Sample: 

What to include in an agreement contract?

  1. Add a Clear and Descriptive Title
  2. The Date on Contract is Formed and Signed
  3. Include Parties Involved Contact Information
  4. Outline the Position and Responsibilities

Add a Clear and Descriptive Title

Summary: Make sure the document has a clear and descriptive title that reflects and describes the contract, “Employment Contact”.

step-1-title

The Date on Contract is Formed and Signed

Summary: Fill in the date on which the agreement is made (e.g., “this agreement is made and effective as of [date], 20__”).

step-2-add-date-created-and-signed

Include Parties Involved Contact Information

Summary: Clearly state the names and contact information of all parties involved in the agreement.

  • Employer’s name: Write the full legal name of the employer (individual or business entity).
  • Employer’s mailing address: Provide the full mailing address of the employer.

step-3-parties-contact-information

Outline the Position and Responsibilities

Summary: Enter job title and outline the terms and conditions that govern the agreement, clearly stating responsibilities and obligations.

  • Job title: Specify the title of the position (e.g., “Sales Manager”).
  • Job duties: Describe the main responsibilities of the job in detail.

terms-and-conditions-responsibilities

How to Create a Job Employment Contract? Video Tutorial

Create a Invoice 

Direct Deposit Authorization Form

Employer requests to make payments directly into your bank account. Download free direct deposit authorization form PDF/Word formats.

Sign-in / sign-out sheets

Sample Job Employment Agreement Contract Template

A job application gives employers an overview of the person applying and their history. . The information provided by the applicant must be accurate, as the employer has the right to terminate employment if any information is found to be false.

What is a job application?

  • A job application is a way for individuals to express their interest in a job by providing their personal details, work experience/history, and skills. It is a tool employers use to use to find out whether the applicant is the right candidate for the job.
  • The applicant needs to provide accurate and truthful information in their job application. Any false or misleading information may lead to termination of employment, even if the applicant has already been hired.
  • Download free letter of recommendation template.

Job Application vs. Resume

Job Application – A job application includes employment eligibility, personal information, and applicant availability.

Resume – Detailed information on employment history, skills, and education level.

Include Personal Information

Applicant Name

  1. First name
  2. Middle name
  3. Last name

Current Date

Date format
Box content with a different title background color.

Address

  • Residential address
  • Use of P.O. Box if necessary

Email Address

Valid and actively monitored email address

Sample

PDF

 

EMPLOYMENT / JOB APPLICATION 

I. PERSONAL INFORMATION.

FULL NAME: [EMPLOYEE’S NAME] DATE: [DATE]
ADDRESS: [ADDRESS]
E-MAIL: [E-MAIL] PHONE: [PHONE]
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN): [SSN]
DATE AVAILABLE: [DATE] DESIRED PAY: $[AMOUNT] HOUR SALARY
POSITION APPLIED FOR: [POSITION/TITLE]
EMPLOYMENT DESIRED:  FULL-TIME PART-TIME SEASONAL

II. EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY.

ARE YOU LEGALLY ELIGIBLE TO WORK IN THE U.S? YES NO
HAVE YOU EVER WORKED FOR THIS EMPLOYER? YES NO
IF YES, WRITE THE START AND END DATES: [START DATE] to [END DATE]
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN CONVICTED OF A FELONY? YES NO
-IF YES, PLEASE EXPLAIN: [EXPLAIN]

III. EDUCATION.

HIGH SCHOOL: [NAME] CITY / STATE: [LOCATION]
FROM: [START DATE] TO: [END DATE]
GRADUATE? YES NO DIPLOMA: [DIPLOMA TYPE]


COLLEGE: [NAME] CITY / STATE: [LOCATION]
FROM: [START DATE] TO: [END DATE]
GRADUATE? YES NO DEGREE: [DEGREE TYPE]


OTHER: [OTHER EDUCATION] CITY / STATE: [LOCATION]
FROM: [START DATE] TO: [END DATE]
DEGREE/CERTIFICATION: [DESCRIBE]

IV. PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT.

EMPLOYER #1: [NAME OF EMPLOYER]
E-MAIL: [E-MAIL] PHONE: [PHONE]
ADDRESS: [ADDRESS]
START: $[AMOUNT] HOUR SALARY END: $[AMOUNT] HOUR SALARY
JOB TITLE: [TITLE] RESPONSIBILITIES: [DESCRIBE]
FROM: [START DATE] TO: [END DATE]
REASON FOR LEAVING: [DESCRIBE]


EMPLOYER #2: [NAME OF EMPLOYER]
E-MAIL: [E-MAIL] PHONE: [PHONE]
ADDRESS: [ADDRESS]
START: $[AMOUNT] HOUR SALARY END: $[AMOUNT] HOUR SALARY
JOB TITLE: [TITLE] RESPONSIBILITIES: [DESCRIBE]
FROM: [START DATE] TO: [END DATE]
REASON FOR LEAVING: [DESCRIBE]


EMPLOYER #3: [NAME OF EMPLOYER]
E-MAIL: [E-MAIL] PHONE: [PHONE]
ADDRESS: [ADDRESS]
START: $[AMOUNT] HOUR SALARY END: $[AMOUNT] HOUR SALARY
JOB TITLE: [TITLE] RESPONSIBILITIES: [DESCRIBE]
FROM: [START DATE] TO: [END DATE]
REASON FOR LEAVING: [DESCRIBE]

V. REFERENCES (PROFESSIONAL ONLY, NO FAMILY MEMBERS).

REFERENCE #1: [NAME OF REFERENCE] RELATIONSHIP: [DESCRIBE]
COMPANY: [COMPANY] TITLE: [TITLE]
E-MAIL: [E-MAIL] PHONE: [PHONE]


REFERENCE #2: [NAME OF REFERENCE] RELATIONSHIP: [DESCRIBE]
COMPANY: [COMPANY] TITLE: [TITLE]
E-MAIL: [E-MAIL] PHONE: [PHONE]


REFERENCE #3: [NAME OF REFERENCE] RELATIONSHIP: [DESCRIBE]
COMPANY: [COMPANY] TITLE: [TITLE]
E-MAIL: [E-MAIL] PHONE: [PHONE]

VI. MILITARY SERVICE.

ARE YOU A VETERAN? YES NO
BRANCH: [NAME OF BRANCH] RANK AT DISCHARGE: [RANK]
FROM: [START DATE] TO: [END DATE]
TYPE OF DISCHARGE: [DESCRIBE]
IF NOT HONORABLE, PLEASE EXPLAIN: [PROVIDE AN EXPLANATION]

VII. BACKGROUND CHECK CONSENT.

IF ASKED, WOULD YOU CONSENT TO A BACKGROUND CHECK? YES NO

VIII. DISCLAIMER.

Applicant understands that this is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to excellence through diversity. To ensure this application is acceptable, it is recommended to type and print your details.

Please complete each section, EVEN IF you decide to attach a resume.

I, the undersigned, certify that my answers are true and honest to the best of my knowledge. If this application leads to my eventual employment, I understand that any false or misleading information in my application or interview may result in my termination.

SIGNATURE: ___________________________
DATE: ___________________________
PRINT NAME: ___________________________