examples of usa resume

US Resume (Format, Tips & Examples for 2024)

If you’re applying for a job in the US, you’ll need to submit a resume that meets US application standards.

As a foreigner, though, you may have little to no idea what a US resume is and how you should write one to land the job. 

Even as an American, you might need to dust off your knowledge on the US resume. 

Unless you’re a resume expert, you probably don’t know what’s the best format for a US resume, or what’s the correct page length. 

But worry not! This article is here to teach you all there is to know about writing a convincing US resume.

Here’s what we’re going to cover: 

• US Resume Specifics 

Step-By-Step Guide to Build Your US Resume

• Formatting Your US Resume

What NOT To Include in Your US Resume

Ready? Let’s dive in! 

US Resume Specifics

There are a few specific things you need to know when it comes to the US resumes, but let’s start off with the most important: 

The term US resume is equivalent to the European CV. 

Both are one-page documents that summarize your relevant experiences, tailored for a specific job you’re applying for.

Additionally: 

• The common length of a US resume is between 1-3 pages. If you are a recent graduate or someone with less than 5 years of relevant work experience, a one-page resume is enough, whereas if you are a seasoned professional, you can go for 2. In rare cases, you can do 3, but that’s rarely encouraged. 
• Standard American English is preferred. For the most part, this means dropping those extra “U”s that UK English uses (e.g. “color” instead of “colour”). 
• Leave out personal information , such as marital status, birthday, gender, photo, number of children, age, religion, personal identification numbers, and ethnicity/country of origin, as they can be grounds for discrimination.
• Don’t include references in your US resume unless the employer specifically asks you to.
• Don’t list English as a foreign language in your US resume (unless English isn’t your foreign language).
• Don’t list your GPA, SAT, TOEFL, or ACT scores on your US resume unless otherwise stated. More often than not, the recruiter doesn't care.  

Now that you know the specifics of a US resume, it’s time to start writing one. 

Not sure where to start? 

Below is a step-by-step guide to building the perfect US resume, starting with: 

#1. Choose the Right Format 

The most popular US resume format is the chronological format (also known as the reverse-chronological format). 

This format is widely preferred by recruiters, and for a good reason—it puts the focus on your work experience by starting with your most recent job and making your way back. 

The reverse-chronological format looks like this:

99% of the time, we recommend using the reverse-chronological resume format, as both US and international recruiters are used to it.

Want to learn more about different resume formats ? Check out our article.

#2. Follow These Formatting Tips

Making sure your US resume looks professional and is reader-friendly is just as important as what it contains. 

Here are some essential formatting tips to perfect your US resume: 

• Make sure your US resume is divided into clear, separate sections. 
• Use 1-1.15 line spacing.
• Keep your US resume length between 1-2 pages. Only go for a third page if you are a seasoned professional with plenty of relevant work experience.
• Use a professional but easy-to-read resume font . 
• Opt for ample white space to make your resume easier on the eye.
• Use the "US Letter" size (8.5 x 11 inches) when saving your PDF (instead of A4). In Novorésumé's editor , for example, you can switch this from "Layout" in the top menu. 

...Or Use a Resume Template 

No matter what format you choose, using a standard text editor like MS Word to create your US resume will be a pain. 

You have to choose the right font, adjust the margins, order your sections the right way, and make sure the end result looks good & easy to follow…

All this can take hours of your time before you can even start filling your resume with content!

Want to skip all the hustle?  

Use a resume builder. With just one click, you can choose out of 8+ resume templates and start building your resume instantly!

Our resume builder is fast, easy, and most importantly, the end result looks absolutely stunning.

See for yourself! Here's an example of our resumes saved in the US Letter format: 

Choose one of these templates and tailor it to your needs! 

#2. List Your Contact Information 

Once you’ve picked the resume format (or template), it’s time to start filling in the contents.

The first thing on your US resume should be your contact information , which includes:

• Name and surname
• Phone number (US phone number, that is)
• Address (City and State)

Optionally, you can also include links to a personal website, online portfolio, or even LinkedIn profile, but make sure to check if they are up to date and present you in the best light.

#3. Express Yourself in Your Resume Profile

Your resume profile is a short, introductory paragraph of your career or your professional goals. 

Depending on how it’s written, a resume profile is also known as either a resume summary or objective .

• Resume Summary , or a 2-3 sentence summary of your career.
• Resume Objective , or your motivation for getting into a new field (the goal of your resume, if you wish).

If you’re a seasoned professional with several years of experience, you should use a resume summary to highlight your experience and achievements. 

On the other hand, if you’re at the start of your career or if you’re changing industries, opt for a resume objective , as it’s less about work experience and more about skills or goals.

Your resume profile must be brief and to the point. Preferably, it should be between 2-3 sentences and urge the hiring manager to read the rest of your resume. 

Here’s an example of a well-written resume summary: 

• “Marketing manager with 4+ years of experience in a corporate environment. Good eye for design, with experience in creating marketing materials with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Canva. Intermediate copywriting skills, having worked on the company website, flyers, and several other content pieces.”

#4. Add Your Work Experience 

Unless you’re a recent graduate, your work experience section is the most important part of your resume, as it shows your past accomplishments and responsibilities. 

This section commonly includes the following: 

• Job Title/Position , so that the recruiter scanning your application knows right away you have the relevant experience for the job. 
• Company name and location . In some cases, especially if your previous employer isn’t as well-known, you may also want to add a brief company description. 
• Dates employed in the mm/yyyy format. 
• Accomplishments and responsibilities , which make up the core of each work entry. Depending on your field and years of experience, you want to list either responsibilities or achievements, in bullet points. 

Here’s a concrete example: 

Now there’s one thing to list your work experience and an entirely different thing to write a work experience section that’ll help you stand out from a pool of hundreds of applicants.

Here are a few tips to achieve the latter:

• List your achievements when possible and use action words to mention your responsibilities. 
• When describing your achievements or responsibilities, follow this formula : “accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z]” (or, start with a verb, numerically measure what you accomplished, provide a baseline for comparison, and detail what you did to achieve your goal.)
• Add 4-6 bullet points for your most recent position and fewer as you go back in time.
• Even if you’re a senior professional with many years of experience, don’t go back further than 15 years. The recruiter doesn’t care what you’ve been up to so long ago.
• Tailor your resume to the job description. Read the job ad you’re applying for and identify the top experiences or skills listed. Then, make sure that your US resume includes the ones you’re qualified for.

#5. Include Your Education

Your education comes underneath the work experience section in your US resume.

Here are the essentials of how this section needs to be formatted and what to include there:

• Program Name. E.g.: “B.A. in Business Administration”
• University Name. E.g.: “Penn State University”
• Years Attended. E.g.: “08/2008 - 06/2012”

Here’s how this looks like in practice:

B.A. in Business Administration

NYC State University

08/2016 - 05/2019

• Magna Cum Laude
• Minor in Finance 

Finally, here are some tips and tricks on how to get this section done right:

• If you lack work experience, place your education section right on top of your resume. This way, you’ll put more emphasis on your academic background than your lack of experience.
• Add courses that are relevant to the industry you are applying to in case you lack work experience (e.g. Design & Layout, for a Graphic Designer position).
• Mention your latest educational entry on top. E.g. Master’s Degree goes on top of a B.A. which goes on top of your high school degree. 
• If you have a university degree, don’t mention your high school degree at all. 

#6. Emphasize Your Strengths in Your Skills Section

Another staple of a US resume is the skills section. This includes all the know-how that makes you the perfect candidate for the job. 

There are two types of skills you want to include: 

• Hard skills , or measurable abilities. Here is where you include skills like Photoshop or Microsoft Office. 
• Soft skills , or personal skills. They include a combination of people skills, communication skills , interpersonal skills , career attributes, etc. 

Keep in mind, though, that a strong skills section doesn’t consist of every skill you ever acquired.

The recruiter doesn’t care about your skills in Photoshop if you’re applying for a job as an accountant.

Rather, they specifically care about the skills that’ll make you a top-performer at the job you’re applying for.

So, go through the job ad you’re applying for and pinpoint the exact skills that are required for the role.

Then, make sure that your US resume mentions the same skills (as long as you possess the skills, of course).

Additionally, make sure to include both soft skills and hard skills into your skills section, as recruiters value applicants we have some of both.    

For example:

#7. Include These Additional Sections

Already included all the sections we’ve mentioned so far but still have some space in your US resume?

You can include some of these optional sections: 

• Internships
• Hobbies and interests
• Volunteer experience
• Certifications and awards
• Publications

Keep in mind that these sections aren’t as important as the ones we’ve covered before. You’re not going to get hired just because you’re into creative writing as a hobby.

That said, these sections do help the recruiter pick between equally capable candidates.

Meaning, someone with work and volunteering experience is more likely to get hired than someone who only has work experience to show for.  

Equally important to remember are all the things you should NOT include in your US resume:

• Personal information, such as marital status, birthday, gender, photo, number of children, age, religion, personal identification numbers, and ethnicity/country of origin, because they can be grounds for discrimination. 
• Authorization to work in the US, which includes your Social Security Number or immigrant status. By law, only after making you an offer can employers ask if you’re eligible to work in the US. 
• References. Including references on a US resume is not standard practice. If the employer is interested, they will ask for them. 

Key Takeaways 

If you’re applying for a job in the US, you’ll need to submit a US resume. Here are the main points this article covered on the topic: 

• The US resume is equivalent to the European CV.
• The common length of a US resume is 1-2 pages and standard American English is preferred over British English. 
• The most popular format for a US resume is the chronological format. 
• Format your US resume to 1-1.15 line spacing and clear and separate sections, as well as use professional and readable fonts. 
• Don’t include in your US resume: personal information such as your age, ethnicity, or gender, authorization to work in the US, and references. 

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US resume format examples

If you’re searching for a job in the US, it’s important that you write your resume in US format.

Although resumes are largely the same across the globe, every region has style preferences that you need to adapt to if you want to get shortlisted for jobs.

This guide, along with 6 example resumes will show you the preferred resume format for the US and provide you with some helpful notes on how to write your own interview-winning resume for the US job market.

Resume templates 

US format Admin resume

Tips on creating a strong admin/office resume …

Head with an eye-catching resume summary

Ensure that US recruiters and hiring managers are instantly impressed, by heading your resume with an introductory summary or personal statement which summarizes your skills and experience, like the sample resume above.

For best results, tailor this short paragraph to include key words from the job adverts you are applying for – this will make an instant first impression and encourage people to continue reading your resume.

Add a well-tailored core skills section

If you really want to ensure that busy recruiters and managers can quickly see your suitability, add a bullet pointed core skills section which reflects your most valuable skills and knowledge. This will create a snapshot that can be quickly seen from even a brief glance at the resume – ensuring the points aren’t missed.

Write powerful role descriptions

So that readers can understand your previous jobs and the value you added, make sure the roles are well structured and written.

Start with an outline sentence to give an overview of the job and the business of the employer.

List your office/admin responsibilities, being sure to detail who you interact with in the office, the skills you use, and how your work feeds into the business.

Finish each role with some quantified key achievements , to give employers an exact impression of how you have impacted the business positively.

US customer service resume

Tips on creating a strong customer service resume …

Ensure your customer service resume catches the attention of US recruiters and hiring managers by writing an introductory paragraph which explains why you are suitable for the roles you are applying for.

Tailor it to match the candidate requirements of the job you are applying to – and keep it brief as recruiters see hundreds of resumes every day and don’t want to spend too much time on each one.

To ensure that your most in-demand skills are not missed – add a bullet pointed core skills section. The points will jump off the page and ensure that they are seen as soon as the resume is opened.

Pack this section full of essential customer service skills and qualifications.

Quick tip: If you worry that your spelling and grammar might not be correct, try using our quick-and-easy Resume Builder to eliminate the risk of making mistakes.

Head each role with an introduction to build some quick context for readers, outlining the role and who you work/worked for.

Bullet point your responsibilities to detail your interactions with customer and duties you perform within each job.

Add some achievements to give examples of impressive results you’ve achieved in sales or service. Add numbers to give them scale if you can.

Resume US format – Teaching roles

Tips on creating a strong teaching resume …

To catch the attention of recruiters and head-teachers, add a punchy summary to the top of your resume, which summarizes your teaching skills and experience. It should be heavily tailored towards your target jobs so that recruiters can quickly see you are a suitable candidate.

Make your most valuable skills stand out from the page by adding them to bullet pointed core skills section underneath your summary. This will help more US recruiters stick to your resume as they browse through the hundreds of applications in their inbox.

Your role descriptions give you a great chance to prove the impact you make in the workplace.

Start each role with an intro that describes the institution you work for and overview of what/who you teach there.

Bullet point your responsibilities to show the skills you use and how you provide education over the long-term

Add achievements to prove impact such as improved standards or impressive exam results.

US Finance resume

Tips on creating a strong finance resume…

Hold the attention of recruiters and hiring managers by adding a powerful summary to the top of your resume. This is a short paragraph which summarizes your skill set and quickly shows readers a high-level overview of your suitability for the jobs you are applying to.

Find out what the most important candidate requirements are for your target jobs and add your matching skills and knowledge to a bullet pointed core skills section. This will highlight your most valuable skills to US recruiters and help you get noticed as soon as the resume is opened.

Start your roles with an intro to show readers who you work/worked for, and what the overall goal of each role is.

List your responsibilities in easy-to-read bullet points, so they can be easily skim-read by recruiters and hiring managers.

Round off each role with some impressive achievements that have had an impact on your employers or clients. Add figures to them if you really want to prove how valuable you are as an employee.

US Graduate resume

Tips on creating a strong graduate resume …

To create an impact whenever your resume is opened, write an elevator-pitch style opening summary, or personal statement . This is the place to make a big first impression by explaining why you are a suitable candidate for the roles you are applying for by giving a summary of your studies, skills and even experience if you have any.

Ensure that your most important skills and knowledge aren’t missed by adding a core skills section under your summary. Research your target jobs thoroughly and add as many of the most frequently appearing candidate requirements as you can.

If you have any work experience then add it into your career summary – if not, you can also add voluntary work or high school/college work placements .

Provide an intro outline for every role to show who you worked for and what the overall function of the job was.

Bullet point your responsibilities to showcase the skills you applied, and how they affected your employer.

If you made any impressive achievements in those jobs, add them to the bottom of your resume to show how you made a positive impact in the role.

US format IT resume

Tips on creating a strong IT resume…

Lead with a punchy paragraph at the top of your resume which summarizes all of your tech and non-tech skills to create a solid first impression.

Be sure to tailor this summary to the jobs you are applying for so that recruiters can instantly see how suitable you are.

Adding a bullet pointed list of core skills near the top the resume, ensure that recruiters can’t miss your most valuable skills.

Head every role with an intro line to build context for readers, by outlining the company and role function.

List role responsibilities in concise bullet points to show how your technical skills are used to solve business problems.

Finish each role by listing some achievements that have had a positive effect on your employer.

Writing a resume in US format

The above examples should give you a good steer on how to create your own resume in US format .

Here are a few final tips to help…

Think before including a photo of yourself – US employers don’t need them to make hiring decisions, but they can add some personality to the document – especially if you work in a creative industry.

Keep it simple – US recruiters tend to be very busy, so make your resume easy to read by keeping the font and layout simple, and keeping the resume to around 2 pages in length.

Do your research – Find out what skills and experience US recruiters are looking for, so you can tailor your resume accordingly.

Good luck with your job search!

• • Provided essential daily living assistance to over 30 elderly residents, enhancing their quality of life and maintaining dignity.
• • Coordinated with a team of 10 healthcare professionals to develop personalized care plans, resulting in a 40% increase in patient satisfaction.
• • Implemented a new system for tracking and ordering personal care supplies, reducing waste by 15%.
• • Assisted in training 15 new caregivers, focusing on techniques for safe patient handling and emergency response.
• • Conducted monthly health and safety audits, ensuring compliance with state regulations and continuous care improvements.
• • Led a project to integrate new digital tools for documenting vital signs, reducing errors by 20%.
• • Managed daily care tasks for 20+ residents, including bathing, grooming, and feeding, adhering to all health standards.
• • Documented daily care activities and reported any health changes to the medical team, facilitating prompt response to health issues.
• • Facilitated social activities for residents, increasing engagement by 30%.
• • Supported the transport and escort of residents to various appointments, ensuring safety and punctuality.
• • Trained 5 junior caregivers in effective communication and care techniques, improving team effectiveness.
• • Provided in-home care for 10 patients, significantly improving their ability to manage daily tasks independently.
• • Implemented individualized care plans that reduced hospital readmissions by 25% for my clients.
• • Educated families on basic care and safe home environments, enhancing patient support from family members.
• • Assisted with physical therapy exercises as part of post-operative care regimens.

5 US Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your US resume must immediately grab the attention of the employer. It should highlight your most relevant experiences and skills. Ensure your US resume is clear and concise, making it easy for hiring managers to see your value. Tailor it to the job you're applying for, so your fit for the position is undeniable.

All resume examples in this guide

Resume Guide

US resume format

US resume experience

Skills on a US resume

Education and certifications

Resume summary or objective

Additional sections

Key takeaways

Anyone aiming to work in the United States or with US-based companies has to master the format and style of a US resume. International applicants often find it challenging to transition from the application procedures common in their home countries ( mainly involving  CVs ), to the US-style resume. Additionally, US citizens must maintain an updated resume to quickly capitalize on job opportunities.

While resumes and CVs share similarities globally, differences in format, length, and content tailored to industry standards are essential in the US.

American resumes have extra requirements that can mean the difference between getting hired or getting your resume tossed to the side without a second glance.

This guide will help you write a job-winning resume  that fits all the US resume standards. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• The importance of adapting your work experience to American recruitment standards and how it simplifies your job search.
• Tips for optimizing your resume with strategic keyword usage.
• Essential sections to include in your resume and additional sections that can strengthen your application.
• How to effectively present your skills in a US-format resume.
• Strategies for selecting the right content for your resume to ensure it’s concise, relevant, and engaging.

Before we begin, consider saving some of these resume tips for later review.

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Let’s dive in.

How to format your resume for the US job market

Compared to European CVs, American resumes are shorter (up to 2 pages)  and easier to scan. In her book The Culture Map , Erin Meyer explains that the United States is a low-context culture where "good communication is precise, simple, and clear. Messages are expressed and understood at face value."

We can safely say that these communication specifics carry over into the professional context. If you’re coming from abroad and have a work visa, all you need to do is transfer your experience and achievements to a document that's well-organized and easy to understand.

The first step is to choose the right format for your US resume .

Types of US resumes

In the United States, the resume structure largely depends on how you prefer to list your work history. This will be defined by your level of experience. Below are the three most common formats  in a resume:

• Reverse chronological resume : This is the most traditional and commonly used resume format. It lists your work experience in reverse chronological order , starting with your most recent job at the top. It’s the best choice for those with a strong work history and progressive career growth in the same field. It’s also recruiters’ favorite as it allows them to see your career trajectory and longevity in particular roles or industries.
• Functional resume : Also known as a skills-based resume , this format focuses on your skills and abilities rather than your chronological work history. It's particularly useful for people who are changing careers, have gaps in their employment history, or are entering the workforce for the first time. The functional resume emphasizes what you can do and what you have learned, rather than where and when you worked.
• Combination (hybrid) resume : The hybrid layout  combines elements of both the chronological and functional resumes. It starts with a section that highlights your skills and accomplishments (similar to a functional resume) followed by a detailed work history in reverse chronological order. This format is beneficial for those who want to showcase specific skills while also detailing their work history.

Hybrid resumes are best fitted for fields like IT, engineering, science, graphic design, or marketing. They allow you to highlight your practical or technical skills at the forefront.

US resume design

Below are some other crucial components for the overall readability of your document. Again, the idea of clear messaging and precision should be reflected in your entire resume.

• Applicant tracking systems (ATS) .  90% of recruiters use ATS  to scan applicants’ resumes for keyword counting. ATS checks how many keywords from the job description can be found within your resume, thus filtering out unqualified candidates. This implies that you might have what it takes to get the job, but if you don’t manage to show it on your resume, you can get dismissed by a machine.
• Resume margins: Consider margins as the frame of your professional portrait. The ideal margin size  is between 0.5 and 1 inch on all sides. You can play around with this to fit in your content, but be careful. Narrower margins will make your resume look cramped, while a larger size can indicate you don’t have much to say.
• Resume font : Another factor contributing to visual hierarchy, resume fonts  are one of the easiest ways to direct and maintain recruiters’ attention on your resume. The best fonts are Lato, Rubik, Arial, Bitter, and PT Serif, size 10-12 pt. They can pass ATS scanners successfully, which is a big concern for today’s job seekers.
• Resume templates : Most people don’t have the time to build a resume from scratch on a word processor. Ready-made templates  are a great way to create your professional resume, as they’re already optimized for machine and human scanning. All you need to do is decide how to complete them. Enhancv has a range of templates—single-column, double-column, modern , traditional , and creative —that can suit any type of job or taste.
• Resume length : In the United States, the one-page resume  is the preferred format. Two-page documents are reserved for seasoned candidates and C-level executives, but for all other cases, one page should be enough to communicate your strengths clearly and concisely.
• Contact information : Place your details in the resume header  and include your name, professional title, email address, a link to your LinkedIn profile or your portfolio, and US phone number. The header can easily go wrong if you put your high-school email address or if you provide a generic title (e.g. Marketing Specialist instead of, say, B2B Marketing Strategist). Your contact information should be as specific and professional as the rest of your resume.
• Resume photo in the US : We advise you to not put your picture on your resume  unless specifically requested. This is done to avoid discrimination and bias. Additionally, photos may confuse ATS scanners as some graphic elements would.
• US letter size: Don’t confuse it with the standard A4 print setting. The US letter size  is 8.5 x 11 inches and can be pre-determined from the template setting on Enhancv’s resume builder.
• File  formatting and naming convention:  It’s best to save your resume as a PDF  to maintain formatting consistency across different devices and platforms. Name your resume file  clearly. Use your full name followed by your title and the word 'resume'. For example, 'AnnaSmith_Architect_Resume.pdf'. This helps hiring managers easily identify and retrieve your file from hundreds of applications.

Is your resume good enough?

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

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s sum up what are the essential elements of a resume when looking for a job in the United States.

The top sections on a US resume

• Professional experience detailing your past roles and achievements.
• A skills section that lists core competencies relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Education and certifications highlighting relevant academic and professional qualifications.
• A professional summary or objective showcasing your career highlights and skills.
• A projects section showing specific projects related to the role.

Any of these sections should be adapted to the specifics of the role you’re targeting and the job you’re applying for. Of course, you can add or prioritize sections that you think are relevant, just make sure you stay direct and to the point. Don’t hesitate to kill your darlings if what you’re writing doesn’t match the job requirements.

What recruiters want to see on your resume

• Relevant job experience to verify capability in similar roles.
• Specific skills that are essential for performing key job functions.
• Educational background that supports the technical knowledge required for the role.
• Certifications that are industry-recognized and pertinent to the job.
• Achievements that demonstrate past success and potential for impact.

Before we dive into each must-have section separately, let’s outline what you shouldn’t include in a US resume:

What NOT to include in your US resume

• Personal information : Details about your date of birth, social security number, gender, nationality, religion, and marital status can lead to biases.
• A headshot : Unless you are applying for a job where your appearance is directly relevant (e.g., acting, modeling), a photo is unnecessary and can lead to discrimination.
• Salary information:  This can be discussed during the interview.
• References:  Employers will ask for them if needed.
• Authorization to work in the US : This is required after you receive a job offer.

How to write your US resume experience section

The biggest challenge when crafting your experience section  is deciding what to include and what to leave out. For many candidates with extensive experience, this can be very frustrating, but the solution is simple:

Feature only those experiences that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

First, research the job description and highlight keywords that indicate the main responsibilities , skills, certification requirements, and overall applicant profile. Then, consider which of those you can relate to and make sure you transfer the same words onto your resume.

The work experience section is a great place to feature major keywords, but don’t limit yourself to just this part of the document. Your whole resume should be strategically populated with terms that will make recruiters nod with appreciation.

Here’s the basic resume experience format:

• Organization name
• Optional: a short description of the company, especially if it’s a startup or an NGO
• Employment dates and location
• 3-6 bullet points describing your duties and achievements, packed with quantified results.

Look at a resume sample of a well-written experience section:

• • Directed the development and market launch of three electric vehicle models, resulting in a 40% market share increase.
• • Implemented cutting-edge battery technology that extended vehicle range by 25% and reduced charge times by 20%.
• • Negotiated key partnerships with technology providers to enhance vehicle connectivity and autonomous driving capabilities.
• • Oversaw a team of 150+ engineers and developers, fostering a culture of innovation and rapid product iteration.

What’s good about those experience entries?

• Action verbs : Each entry starts with an action verb  that enhances the candidate’s profile of someone who drives change within their sector.  
• Buzzwords : Carefully selected industry-specific words  are a strategic way to boost your application (e.g. market share increase, cutting-edge battery, a culture of innovation). Use those in small doses, as putting too many can backfire.
• Quantified   achievements : 3 out of 4 entries provide specific examples of measurable outcomes. This is something you should aim for in your entire resume. Simply listing skills and achievements won’t cut it. Instead, build your credibility by providing concrete evidence for your experience.

Experience is not what happens to you; it's what you do with what happens to you.

Aldous Huxley

How to quantify impact on a US resume

An effective resume doesn’t leave recruiters guessing. That’s why, you should provide numbers , percentages, and measurable outcomes whenever possible. Below you can find a few ideas on how to do that:

• Include percentage revenue growth achieved under your leadership to demonstrate impact on profitability.
• Detail cost savings through efficiency improvements with specific percentages to show financial stewardship.
• Mention customer base expansion figures to illustrate successful market penetration.
• Highlight the increase in market share to show competitive advancement.
• Quantify the reduction in process times to emphasize efficiency gains.
• Report specific figures on capital raised during funding rounds to underline financial acumen.
• State the exact number of patents filed under your guidance to reflect innovation capabilities.
• Provide the numerical increase in shareholder value to showcase business growth impact.

The same applies to entry-level roles or internship candidates . Learn more in the following section.

How to list skills on your American resume

The key skills for a US resume in 2024 are largely shaped by the current job market. Factors like the post-COVID landscape, ongoing global conflicts, and potential economic downturns are significantly influencing employment opportunities.  

A recent article in Reader’s Digest  highlights this shift: “From tech jobs to health care opportunities to eco-friendly careers, the list is diverse in terms of interests, skills, and education requirements. [...] But according to the experts, they’re recession-proof careers, and some of them are even jobs that might make you a millionaire.”

So, what are the 10 most wanted jobs in the US right now and how do they define the most in-demand skills? Here’s a breakdown.

• Data Scientist : Businesses across various sectors need professionals who can analyze complex data sets to inform decision-making processes.
• Cybersecurity Specialist : With increasing digital transactions and data, the demand for cybersecurity experts to protect against threats is critical.
• Registered Nurse : The healthcare industry continues to experience a robust demand for nurses due to an aging population and the ongoing global health challenges.
• Medical Technologist : Professionals who can handle patient samples and maintain laboratory equipment are crucial in the healthcare field.
• Truck Driver : The logistics and delivery sectors are growing, necessitating more drivers as online shopping becomes increasingly prevalent.
• Translator :  As businesses operate on a global scale, the need for skilled translators to bridge communication barriers is significant.
• Physical Therapist :  An increasing number of individuals seeking rehabilitation services makes this a rapidly growing field.
• Software Developer :  The tech industry's expansion drives the demand for developers to create and maintain software solutions.
• Digital Marketing Specialist :  With the rise of digital commerce, experts in digital marketing are crucial for businesses to reach their target audiences effectively.
• Financial Advisor :  Economic uncertainties have led to a heightened need for professional financial planning and advice.

Based on these insights, we’ve compiled a list of the top technical skills  that you can include in your resume.

The best hard skills for your US resume

• Data analysis
• Project management
• Software development
• Cloud computing (AWS, Azure)
• Machine learning
• Cybersecurity
• Database management (SQL, NoSQL)
• Business intelligence (BI) Tools
• Web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
• Mobile app development (iOS, Android)
• Network administration
• CAD Software
• Financial modeling
• CRM software (Salesforce)
• ERP systems (SAP, Oracle)
• Artificial intelligence
• Blockchain technology
• Graphic design software (Adobe Creative Suite)
• Video editing software
• Automation tools (Ansible, Puppet)

Technical skills are part of the hard skills  group and are normally displayed in a dedicated section on your resume. Make sure you list those that are highly relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Unlike hard skills, which you acquire through training and work experience, soft skills  are developed through communication with others. However, remember that they’re best demonstrated when actually implied and supported with evidence.

For instance, instead of listing problem-solving and teamwork in an isolated section, you can showcase these skills in your experience entries. Like so: “Managed project timelines and coordinated with cross-functional teams to align project goals with business objectives, successfully delivering the project 2 weeks ahead of deadline and under budget by 15%.”

Below are some of the top skills that American recruiters appreciate on a resume:

The best soft skills for your US resume

• Communication
• Adaptability
• Problem-solving
• Conflict resolution
• Team collaboration
• Time management
• Attention to detail
• Emotional intelligence
• Persuasiveness
• Accountability
• Active listening
• Decision-making
• Interpersonal skills
• Stress management
• Cultural awareness
• Negotiation skills

How to list your education and certifications on a US resume

When creating the education section  of your US resume, focus on relevance and only include details pertinent to the job you're applying for. Here you can mention any ongoing or incomplete educational pursuits to demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning . This approach keeps your resume clear and organized and showcases your qualifications effectively for potential employers.

Education should be listed in reverse chronological order, beginning with the most recent qualifications and following this order:

• Degree or certification obtained
• Name of institution
• Graduation date or expected completion.
• GPA  if it's notably high, or honors received (optional)
• Relevant coursework demonstrating your contributions

This is how a registered nurse’s education section can look:

• • Specialized in pediatric care and completed relevant clinical rotations at UCSF Medical Center.

When listing certifications on a US resume , you should keep in mind two things. Firstly, they need to be relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Secondly, if you’re an international applicant for a US job, be cautious of the following:

• Recognition and equivalency : Verify that your certifications are recognized in the United States or have an equivalent that is appreciated by US employers.
• Accreditation : Ensure that the institution or organization that granted your certification is accredited or recognized by relevant US authorities. This can significantly impact the credibility of your qualifications.
• Translation and conversion : If your certification is not in English, it should be professionally translated. Also, consider converting any metrics (like grades or scores) to a format familiar to US employers.
• Currency and validity : Indicate if your certifications are current, especially for roles that require up-to-date knowledge and skills. Some certifications require periodic renewal or continuing education, which should be clearly mentioned.

Next, list the certifying body and the date, and make sure current certifications are highlighted, especially if they require renewal.

Here are some of the most widely recognized certifications you can see on American resumes.

The best certifications for a professional US resume

• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)

Enhancv’s resume builder  offers the flexibility to customize your resume by adding and organizing sections as you prefer. If you have more than two certifications that are relevant to the job you're targeting, it's wise to allocate a specific section for them on your resume. This approach is appreciated by both applicant tracking systems ATS and recruiters.

How to write your US resume summary or objective

You might wonder why we leave this section for the end of each guide. It’s simple. It’s best to write your resume summary or objective when you’ve finished putting together your experience and training background. This allows you to quickly summarize the key points of your career and adjust them to the specific role you’re applying for.

So, what’s the difference between a resume summary and an objective statement?

In the United States, there are two types of personal statements  that provide employers with a brief overview of your qualifications and career goals.

The resume objective is 1-3 sentences long and focuses on how you’re going to add value to the specific job or company you’re applying for. It’s more suitable for candidates with less than 3 years of experience, career changers, and individuals with large career gaps.

Here’s an example of a resume objective for an aspiring professional translator.

Here’s why this is a good resume objective:

• Sentence 1 : The objective starts by framing the candidates’ profile. It clearly states a specialization in Spanish to English translations, highlighting the candidate’s specific expertise .
• Sentence 2 : It aligns the graduate’s educational background and certification with their career aspirations , demonstrating relevance to professional goals.
• Sentence 3:  By expressing a desire to contribute  to the success of a specific, well-regarded firm, the objective showcases the candidate’s intention to apply their skills in a meaningful and impactful way, appealing to potential employers looking for dedicated professionals.

Resume summaries  differ slightly in that they provide more room—up to five sentences—to detail your key skills, achievements, and contributions to past employers. They also serve as an excellent platform to highlight notable successes or certifications, particularly those mentioned in the job description.

Let’s look at a well-written data analyst’s resume summary.

Now, let’s see what makes it a good summary:

• Use of strong adjectives and action verbs:  The summary starts with detail-oriented , an adjective that sets a professional tone  and highlights a crucial skill for a data analyst. Action verbs like leveraging , analyzed , developed , and creating , show proactive involvement in key projects and tasks.
• Quantified metrics: The summary includes specific, quantified achievements such as increased revenue by 15% year-over-year . They provide concrete evidence of the candidate's impact and capability.
• Key skills and certifications:  It mentions proficiency in SQL, Python, and Tableau, which are critical tools for a data analyst. The mention of an "Advanced Data Science" certification from IBM further strengthens the candidate’s qualifications.
• Absence of personal pronouns:  The summary avoids the use of personal pronouns , which helps maintain a professional and focused tone. This style is often preferred in resume writing as it directs attention to the candidate's skills and achievements without personal bias.
• Comprehensive yet concise:  This comprehensive approach ensures that a potential employer quickly grasps the candidate’s qualifications and potential value to the organization.

No matter how far in your career you are, make sure you write a concise and specific personal statement.

Additional sections to include in a US resume

We talked a lot about the importance of being direct and specific when crafting a resume in the United States. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t include any further sections that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. Here are a few suggestions:

• Languages : Proficiency in multiple languages  can be a significant advantage in many roles, especially in international companies or in customer service positions.
• Projects section : Particularly for roles that involve project management or software development, a projects section  can showcase specific examples of what you have accomplished, detailing the scope and the outcome of the projects.
• Hobbies and interests : While not always necessary, this section can help humanize you as a candidate and possibly connect on a personal level with the hiring manager.
• Volunteer work : This can prove your commitment to community, your leadership skills, and your willingness to take on responsibilities outside of professional work.
• Professional affiliations and memberships : Being part of professional organizations  can show your engagement in the industry and your ongoing commitment to professional development.
• Publications : If you have authored or contributed to professional publications , listing these can enhance your credibility and establish you as an expert in your field.
• Awards and honors : Including any relevant awards or recognitions  you have received can highlight your excellence and competitiveness in your field.

Understanding the nuances of US resume standards is crucial for both international applicants and US citizens seeking to optimize their job prospects. Here are the key takeaways from our comprehensive guide on mastering the US resume format:

• Adapt to American standards : Tailoring your experience to meet American recruitment criteria simplifies the job application process and increases your visibility among recruiters.
• Optimize with technology : Utilize strategic keyword usage to ensure your resume stands out and aligns with the job description, increasing your chances of being noticed.
• Include essential sections : Insert vital resume sections such as professional experience, skills, and education. Adding sections like certifications and projects can further enhance your resume by showcasing relevant qualifications and achievements.
• Avoid specific elements : There are things you should not put in your US resume, such as a photo, detailed graphics, fancy fonts, or personal information. This is done to ease ATS scanning and avoid discrimination.

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