How to Make a Resume in 2023

Last updated Sep 28, 2023

Creating a resume in 2023 follows many of the same principles as in previous years, but it’s essential to stay current with industry trends and adapt to changes in resume writing practices. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a resume in 2023:

1. Choose the Right Resume Format:

Consider the job you’re applying for and your own work history when selecting a resume format. The most common formats include chronological, functional, and combination/hybrid resumes.
In most cases, a chronological format (listing work history in reverse order) is suitable for traditional roles and industries.

2. Start with Contact Information:

Include your full name, phone number, professional email address, and a link to your LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
Omit personal information such as your date of birth and physical address, as these are no longer necessary or recommended.

3. Write a Strong Resume Summary or Objective:

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

4. Highlight Relevant Skills:

Create a skills section that showcases your technical and soft skills. Tailor this section to match the job requirements and use relevant keywords.
Consider including a “Core Competencies” or “Key Skills” section near the top of your resume.

5. Detail Your Work Experience:

List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job.
Include the company name, job title, dates of employment (month and year), and a concise description of your responsibilities and achievements.
Focus on quantifiable achievements, emphasizing results and impact.

6. Add an Education Section:

Mention your educational background, including the name of the institution, degree earned, graduation date, and any relevant honors or coursework.

7. Include Certifications and Training:

List relevant certifications, licenses, and additional training that enhance your qualifications.

8. Address Employment Gaps:

If you have employment gaps, briefly explain them in your cover letter or provide context in the interview. Highlight any productive activities during those gaps.

9. Use Action Verbs:

Start bullet points with strong action verbs (e.g., “achieved,” “managed,” “implemented”) to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities.

10. Be Concise and Specific:

Keep your resume concise and avoid excessive details. Use bullet points to make your achievements and qualifications easy to skim.
Aim for a resume length of one to two pages, depending on your level of experience.

11. Customize for Each Job:

Tailor your resume for each job application by emphasizing skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role. Use keywords from the job description.

12. Proofread and Edit:

Carefully proofread your resume to eliminate typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies. A polished resume reflects professionalism.

13. Save as a PDF:

Save your resume as a PDF document to ensure that formatting remains consistent when viewed on different devices and software.

14. Include Optional Sections:

Depending on your industry and career stage, consider adding optional sections like “Projects,” “Publications,” “Volunteer Work,” or “Languages.”

15. Stay Updated:

Keep up with current resume trends and industry-specific preferences. Resume guidelines can evolve over time.

Remember that your resume is a dynamic document that should be continuously updated to reflect your evolving skills and experiences. Tailoring it to each job application and staying current with best practices will help you create an effective resume in 2023.