what to put in your profile on a resume

10 Resume Profile Examples (And How to Write Yours)

Imagine you've got everything covered in your resume : You listed your past experiences, included keywords from the job description, and pared it down to design elements an applicant tracking system (ATS) can parse. Now it’s an accurate representation of your professional qualifications—but you still can’t shake the feeling that who you are as a person is getting a bit lost. That’s where a resume profile comes in.

Adding this section to your resume is a good way to show more of your personality while still being professional. Curious? Read on to find out exactly what a resume profile is, and how to write yours—including examples.

What is a resume profile?

A resume profile is a few concise sentences or bullet points that can be placed at the top of your resume (below the header). It “describes who you are as a professional,” says Muse career coach Yolanda Owens , founder of CareerSensei and who also worked as a college corporate recruiter for more than 20 years.

Once you perfect your resume, check out open jobs on The Muse to maximize your chances »

Career professionals don’t all agree on the exact contents of a resume profile, or even on whether it’s different from a resume summary . So you have a bit of flexibility in how you think about yours and what you include in it.

For example, you might think of a resume profile as a way to “tell the reader who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for,” so that you can grab their attention and “quickly showcase your accomplishments,” says Muse career coach and former recruiter Jennifer Smith , founder of Flourish Careers .

Or you might approach your resume profile like Owens does, as the equivalent to “a dating profile that describes how you see yourself at work, and the type of work environment that makes you feel productive and purposeful.”

What’s the difference between a resume summary and a profile?

While some career coaches may use the terms resume summary and resume profile interchangeably, others treat them differently.

The first is a quick synopsis of the relevant experiences and skills you bring to a role. The latter can do the same, but it can also focus on your traits and achievements, your story as a professional, and your desires for your next role.

At this point, you might be wondering: If a resume profile includes what you’re looking for in your next role , how is it different from a resume objective ? Some people say that resume objectives are outdated at best and a waste of space at worst. If that’s true, why is a resume profile acceptable?

The difference lies in “the additional context that’s included in the profile,” says Smith. A traditional objective merely states what you’re looking for and maybe a vague reason why. But “the profile goes deeper into who you are and what you do” in addition to what you’re looking for next, connecting your past and present to your future.

Is a resume profile necessary? Who should use it?

Resume profiles can be advantageous for all job seekers, Smith says, especially for those “who are changing either their role or industry.” If you’re a career changer , a strong, explicit resume profile will give you space to tell the reader right up front that, no, you didn’t apply to this job by mistake—this is the next step in your career and here’s why.

Resume profiles are also particularly useful for entry-level job seekers who may need to tie their education and other experiences together more explicitly. If a candidate is writing an entry-level resume , Owens suggests that they “use the profile section to explain what they’re looking for in terms of challenges and learning, and the skills they possess that could potentially add value.”

What to include in a resume profile

Think about what you’d want the person reading your resume to know first. Is it something about your qualifications or your biggest accomplishment? Is it how well you work with others or what your personality adds to a team? This is what should go into your resume profile. You have a few sentences (or bullets) to work with, so don’t restrict yourself to highlighting just one thing.

Here are a few types of information that you can include in a resume profile, according to our coaches:

• Relevant skills and experiences
• Relevant achievements and accomplishments
• Years of experience
• Strengths as a professional (both soft and hard skills )
• Signature traits related to the job
• Personal traits that contribute to your work
• Qualities you’re looking for in your next role, team, or company
• Willingness to relocate (if you’re applying to a job not near the location listed on your resume)

What are recruiters looking for in a resume profile?

Don’t underestimate the power of a good first impression to get someone to keep reading the rest of your resume with interest. “The resume profile has an ability to quickly convince a recruiter that the person is a strong, qualified candidate,” says recruiter and Muse career coach Steven Davis , founder and CEO of Renaissance Solutions .

But recruiting isn’t just about making sure candidates have the right skills, Owens says. Recruiters also need to get a feel for whether the team and work environment will be a good match for the candidate long term.

Candidates’ skills and experiences should be well represented throughout their resumes, so as a recruiter, Owens most often “looked at the profile as a way to get a sense of their work persona and gauge environment fit for the role.”

How to write a profile for a resume : 5 steps

Once you know what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for in your resume profile and what you’d like to portray, you can follow these tips as you write your own:

1. Keep it concise

Your resume profile should be no more than four sentences or bullet points, and should not have more than 500 characters. Remember recruiters read dozens of resumes daily, so you don't want yours to be unnecessarily long and tiring.

2. Find the format the suits you best

Decide if you want to use either bullet points or paragraph form. Your resume profile can be written as bullet points, but keep in mind that bullet points often take up more space than a paragraph. “To preserve real estate on the resume and attempt to keep it to one to two pages , I always recommend using paragraph format,” Owens says.

3. Consider the position you're applying for

Tailor your profile to the job, but not so much that it’s not true to who you are. If your resume profile is closer to a summary that highlights your key qualifications and accomplishments as they relate to a given job, you should be tailoring it very carefully for each application and incorporating keywords from the job description.

Read more: What it Really Means to "Tailor Your Resume"

However, if your resume profile is more of a personal (but still professionally appropriate) description of yourself, Owens recommends against tailoring it to match each job: “What you don’t want to do is try to tell employers what you think they want to hear,” she says, if it doesn’t reflect who you are. “That’s how you end up in positions where you’re ultimately unhappy.”

4. Quantify your experiences and accomplishments

Whenever possible, quantify your experiences and accomplishments by adding numbers, percentages, and other metrics to your resume profile. Keep in mind that recruiters nowadays not only want to know what you did, but also what you achieved and the exact results of your work.

5. Show some personality

While the rest of your resume won’t let much of your personality shine through, your profile gives you an opportunity for creativity. If you’re applying to a casual company, you can add a splash of personality, but if you’re applying to a more formal organization, it’s best to keep things more buttoned up.

Resume profile: Examples

Want to know what all this advice looks like in action? Check out these 10 resume profile examples for different types of job seekers and professions.

Career changer

Quality-control team lead with 10+ years experience who specializes in making thorough business decisions and leading others through day-to-day operations to achieve excellence. Decided to transition to the outdoor recreation industry during the COVID-19 pandemic after realizing that people, especially children, spend too much time indoors behind computer screens. Excited to bring experience in quality assurance and operations to a management position at an outdoor recreation facility to help people of all ages get outside and enjoy themselves safely.

Recent college graduate or entry-level candidate

Recent magna cum laude animal sciences graduate with a focus on small animal care excited to bring passion and knowledge to a position with an animal shelter or animal-focused nonprofit and learn more about programs that protect animals from euthanasia. As president of the University of Georgia chapter of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians, planned, organized, advertised, and managed a fundraiser that brought in over $20,000 in donations to a local shelter while also placing 43 cats and dogs with adoptive families. Proud dog mom of two former shelter pets, Dakota and Miley (pictures available upon request).

Account Executive (Sales)

Account executive who has been making deals since my first lemonade stand at age four for a total of $20+ million in sales. I love the rush of being on a sales team working toward goals—both in exceeding my own targets and in cheering on my teammates and celebrating their wins. In my current role, I’ve discovered that the most satisfying feeling of all was teaching a few of our SDRs to close deals. Seeing how proud they were of themselves as they got better motivated me to seek out a sales training role at a highly collaborative company.

Find account executives jobs on The Muse

A detail-oriented accountant with experience preparing tax and financial reports for charities to be posted publicly online. Evaluated budget (including payroll) for inefficiencies and suggested cost-cutting and time-saving measures that ultimately allowed the nonprofit to put an additional 5% of yearly donations directly into charitable programs. Excited to bring accounting skills to a nonprofit in the public health sector after spending over five years volunteering for public health charities such as the Red Cross and Project N95.

Find accountant jobs on The Muse

Customer Service Representative

An empathetic customer service representative who loves getting to talk to new people every day and help them solve problems. Crafted service approach of finding out what customers’ goals are and what their level of expertise in the product was rather than automatically giving boilerplate advice, leading to a 92% customer satisfaction rating. Avid video game player and designer looking to bring this passion to a customer service role for a gaming company.

Find customer service representative jobs on The Muse

Human Resources Manager

Human resources generalist who oversaw the transition of a 100+ employee company to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adept at dealing with the issues facing fully remote or hybrid workforces, including in hiring, professional development, and conflict resolution. Conceived of and instituted DEI programs for employees working from home. Looking for a position with a company that has a fully distributed or hybrid workforce and is committed to increasing diversity in its hiring pool.

Find human resources manager jobs on The Muse

Marketing Manager

Email marketer with 6+ years of experience gathering data-driven insights to make decisions about marketing campaigns. Conceived, proposed, and executed a campaign for a new headphone line across all marketing channels including email, social, content marketing, and print ads, with a total reach of 30 million impressions leading to over $1 million in sales. A team player who has taken the time to learn what each teammate in 10-person marketing department does and even filled in for them when needed. Excited to find a position in a collaborative work environment that oversees marketing campaigns across multiple channels.

Find marketing manager jobs on The Muse

Office Administrator

• Friendly, organized, and proactive administrative assistant with four years of experience looking to move into an office administrator role
• Saved office over $3,000 per quarter in supplies by creating new inventory tracking document on Google Sheets, showing other employees how to check supply levels and request orders, and comparing the supply sheet to inventory every two weeks to stop duplicate supply orders
• Spent four months filling in for office manager during maternity leave

Find office administrator jobs on The Muse

Project Manager

Looking for a project manager who can save at-risk initiatives and projects and make sure they come in on time and under budget and are fully functional at launch? I’ve held positions in customer care, engineering, product, and communications, so I know how to work with employees in all departments and see a project from multiple angles, ensuring each piece is on track and communicating with stakeholders along the way. I work best in environments where innovation is encouraged and no one expects to wear just one hat.

Find project manager jobs on The Muse

Web Developer

• Back-end web developer with experience using Java, Python, and SQL to develop features for online databases
• Go-to debugger on team of seven engineers
• Developed a site (link) that uses television shows you’ve watched to suggest new shows based on the ratings and recommendations of users with similar watch histories, bringing in an average of 10,000 visitors monthly

Find web developer jobs on The Muse

How to Write a Resume Profile (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Let’s face facts; looking for a job isn’t easy. As a candidate, you’re trying to find ways to stand out from the pack. You also need to ensure that the hiring manager can see at a quick glance that you’re the perfect candidate for the role. How can you pull that off? With a winning resume profile, of course.

Your resume profile acts like a beacon, drawing the hiring manager in by highlighting the best of what you have to offer. But if you really want it to work, you need to make sure you approach it properly.

If you aren’t sure how to write a profile for a resume in a way that’s enticing or need a few resume profile examples to get the creative juices flowing, here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Resume Profile?

Alright, let’s start with the basics. What is a resume profile anyway?

In the simplest sense, a resume profile is an overview of what you bring to the table professionally. It goes right near the top of your resume, sitting just below your contact information, and gives the hiring manager a quick idea of why you’re an awesome candidate.

However, unlike some of the alternatives – like a resume objective or traditional resume summary – the resume profile taps on your skills, experience, and professional goals in one place. That makes it more flexible than some of your other options for the first section of your resume

Typically, a resume profile is a quick paragraph or set of bullet points filled with incomplete sentences. That’s right; it’s another spot where saying “I” isn’t part of the equation.

The purpose of a resume profile is to make it easy for the hiring manager to learn critical details about you. Usually, hiring managers spend less than two minutes reviewing resumes during the initial screening (and some may only skim a resume for 7.4 seconds before deciding whether to pursue a candidate).

That means you don’t have a lot of time to make a powerful impression. Luckily, with a great resume profile, two minutes may be more than you need.

What Makes a Great Resume Profile?

Alright, so you only have a tiny bit of time to catch a hiring manager’s attention. That means you need a stellar resume profile to entice them to give your resume (and you) some extra consideration.

Creating an outstanding resume profile means tapping on a few key points. Usually, you want to mention your:

• Amount of experience and job title, or recent relevant education
• Area of expertise
• Relevant skills
• Relevant achievements

You can also touch on your career goals if you can position them in the right way. While your goals are about, well, you, you need to cover them using an approach that aligns with the hiring manager’s needs. If you can do that, talking about your goals is an option here, too.

However, there’s more to the equation than that. You also need to tailor the information to the position.

As with all parts of your resume, updating your resume profile to match the specific job you want to score is crucial. That way, the content is relevant to that particular hiring manager, increasing the odds that they’ll find it enticing.

It’s also smart to through some numbers in there. On a resume, numbers visually stand out, so they attract the eye. If you want to make sure your resume profile gets noticed, quantifying a couple of the details can help.

Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that brevity is your friend here. In most cases, you want to limit your resume profile to just a few sentences max.

A giant wall of text is never a good idea, as it makes your resume hard to review. If you go past four sentences or so, you’re probably pushing your luck.

Common Resume Profile Mistakes

Just like with every other part of your resume, certain mistakes really hurt your chances of moving forward. Classics like spelling errors are always a problem, so keep an eye out for the basics when you craft your resume summary.

While we touched on this already, this one is worth restating; a big wall of text is a bad idea. If your resume profile is longer than four sentences, it can be hard to read, and that’s always a problem if you’re creating a resume.

Another issue is missing the mark when it comes to relevance. Always, always, always tailor your resume profile to the job. After all, you’re trying to attract a specific hiring manager. If you aren’t speaking to their unique needs, you aren’t going to make the best impression possible.

Talking too much about what you want or need is also a problem. Remember, when you’re writing a resume, it’s about you, but it also isn’t. Yes, you’re sharing an overview of what you bring to the table. But your goal should be to address the hiring manager’s needs, not what you want out of the deal.

How to Write a Resume Profile

Sometimes, the hardest thing to do is to decide how to approach a section of your resume. Without a solid strategy, it’s difficult to showcase what you want to share in the best way possible.

Luckily, you’re here, and we’ve got your back. If you’re trying to figure out how to write a profile for a resume, here’s a step-by-step process that can help.

1. Lead Off with Your Relevant Experience or Education

Typically, the first thing you want to touch on is your relevant experience or education. If you’re already working in the field, the formula is very simple:

[Job title] with [number] of years of experience in .

For example, if you are a software developer, it could say, “Software developer with 6 years of experience in custom Java application development.” For a high school administrator, it could say, “High school administrator with 8 years of experience working with at-risk students.”

If you don’t have relevant experience, then leading off with your education can be a better choice. The formula for this approach is:

Recent [school name] graduate with [degree level] in [major], with a focus on [knowledge area] and [knowledge area].

For the “knowledge area” sections, you’ll showcase relevant coursework or expertise. That way, you can highlight your specialty areas.

For example, “Recent University of Washington graduate with Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, with a focus on networking and telecommunications” can work. You can also tweak the approach a bit, going with something like, “Recent Arizona State University Master of Accountancy graduate with a focus on accounting analytics and advanced auditing.”

Just getting out of high school and looking for your first job? You can also use this recent graduate approach too. Start off with “Recent high school graduate” instead. Then, discuss relevant skills – including soft skills or traits – that make you a great fit for the job. You can also mention your GPA if it was stellar, as it could help you stand out, and it lets you get some numbers into the mix.

2. Mention an Area of Expertise

While you technically tapped on areas of expertise in the first step, this is one spot where you want to double down. That way, you can mention more of the job’s required skills or experience in your resume profile, making yours even more relevant in the eyes of the hiring manager.

Usually, you’ll want to add a single sentence that taps on an industry-specific job duty-related capability. You may say, “Highly skilled at [relevant job requirement or capability” or “Proven expertise in handling [relevant job task].”

Again, you want to quantify the details whenever possible, so make sure to get a number in there if you can.

3. List Job-Related Skills

Now, you’re going to talk a bit more about job skills. With this, you may need to customize the approach depending on how much experience you have. For example, if you’re newer to the field, you may have a “working knowledge,” while those with more experience could have “comprehensive knowledge.”

Choose an accurate descriptor for the skills you include. Then, mention two or three that you have that align with the job description.

4. Add an Accomplishment

By ending your resume profile with an achievement, you can close out with another opportunity for some numbers. Plus, it gives you a final chance to really pack a punch, so pick an accomplishment that relates to the role and that you can quantify.

10 Resume Profile Examples

Alright, it’s time for what you’ve all been waiting for: resume profile examples. These are all based on the points above, though each one is adapted to fit the needs of the role and where a person may be professionally. As a result, some may include certain points and not others or may focus more heavily on areas that will provide the hiring manager with the most value.

With all of that in mind, here are 10 different resume profile examples, each targeting a different kind of position and moment in a person’s career.

1. Entry-Level Customer Service

Recent high school graduate with a 4.0 GPA and excellent communication skills. Highly skilled at teamwork and collaboration, as well as maintaining a positive attitude when faced with challenges. Lead school volunteering club car wash, which earned $1,500 for local charities in one day.

2. Early Career Administrative Assistant

Administrative assistant with 3 years of experience assisting fast-paced consulting firm. Highly skilled at data entry, business communications, and report generation. Comprehensive knowledge of schedule management. Updated office filing processes to align with digital transformation initiative, resulting in an annual savings of $3,500.

3. Recent Graduate Network Administrator

Recent University of Washington graduate with Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, with a focus on networking and telecommunications. Completed 4 major projects during studies, honing critical security and project management skills. Highly knowledgeable of emerging trends, including cloud-based solutions and telecommuting technologies.

4. Recent Graduate Accountant

Recent Arizona State University Master of Accountancy graduate with a focus on accounting analytics and advanced auditing. Completed internship with ABC Firm, strengthening a foundation in GAAP, as well as increasing knowledge of account management and in-depth analysis. Expertise in advanced audit reporting with a goal of increasing operational efficiency and ensuring accuracy.

5. Mid-Career Marketing Professional

Agile marketing professional with 5 years working for large-scale, multi-product businesses. Introduced email campaign updates that lead to 18 percent rise in click-thru rates and a 20% boost in related sales. Experienced in KPI identification and tracking. Managed $20,000 marketing campaign for new product launch, exceeding resulting sales expectations 10-fold.

6. Mid-Career Software Developer

Experienced full-stack software developer with 7+ years of experience with JavaScript, Python, and Java. Proven expertise in handling custom software development projects for clients in the healthcare space, and working knowledge of HIPAA and other healthcare industry requirements. Track record of completing projects, on average, 5% ahead of schedule and 12% under budget.

7. Mid-Career Nurse

Multilingual nurse with 4 years of experience in high-traffic emergency rooms. Successfully balances patient care quality with efficiency, leading to a 15% boost in patient satisfaction. Implemented scheduling processes that reduced staffing costs by 5%.

8. Early Management IT Professional

Committed IT supervisor with 5 years of experience overseeing 6-person tech team. Skilled at coaching and performance management, and familiar with DevOps and Agile methodologies. Implemented cloud-based solution that resulted in a $5,000 year-over-year cost savings. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) and PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP).

9. Experienced HR Department Manager

Human Resources Manager with 10 years of experience leading teams of 15+ HR professionals. Successful implementation of diversity and inclusion initiatives that led to 20% boosts in employee retention and 15% reduction in time-to-hire. SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).

10. C-Suite-Level Company Leader

Forward-thinking bilingual Executive with 6 years of experience leading enterprise-level multi-national corporations while maintaining a customer-centric vision. Experienced with balancing the strategic needs across multiple departments based on a big picture perspective. Created operational policies that boosted overall company productivity by 18% while reducing costs by 10%.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, creating a winning resume profile is fairly simple. Use the tips above to ensure yours hits the mark. That way, your first impression on the hiring manager will be a strong one.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How to Write a Convincing Resume Profile [+23 Examples]

On average, a recruiter looks at your resume for around 6 seconds. 

Yep, that’s right - they give your CV a quick skim, and if they don’t find what they’re looking for, they just move on to the next one.

Think fast!

How can you convince the recruiter to read your resume, the same instant they look at it?

The answer is simple: you should create a resume profile.

And in this guide, we’re going to teach you how, exactly, you can do that.

• What a resume profile is and why it’s important
• How to create an effective resume profile in 3 easy steps
• 26 practical resume profile examples

How to Write a Resume Profile (Step-by-Step)

OK, let's start with the obvious - what even is a Resume Profile?

The resume profile is a short,3-5 sentence paragraph that summarizes your career. It covers your top achievements, skills, and years of experience. 

The resume profile is also known as a resume summary and resume profile statement.

Here’s what a resume profile looks like on a resume:

Now, let’s talk about why you should include a resume profile:

• It shows the recruiter that you’re relevant from the get-go, giving them a reason to read the rest of your resume.
• It helps you stand out. You don’t just show the recruiter that you’re relevant - you show them that you’re THE right candidate.

And here's an example of a well-written Resume Profile:

Customer Service Team Lead with three years of experience in a multicultural BPO environment. Specialized in the creation & monitoring of KPIs, compliance with SLAs and being the main POC for all key internal and external stakeholders. Looking to transfer process management and performance quality control skills into the exciting position as Quality, Control and Compliance Specialist at XYZ Ltd.

Keep in mind, though, that a resume profile is different from a resume objective.

• The resume profile summarizes your work experience to date and your relevant skills and achievements.
• The objective , on the other hand, is more about your professional goals. You DON’T include work experience here. Instead, you focus more on why you want to work at company X, and how your background makes you the right fit.

So, if you don’t have much relevant work experience (recent graduate, career change, etc.), you should opt for a resume objective instead.

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, here's a thorough Step-by-Step on how to build YOUR resume profile:

Step #1 - Tailor Your Resume Profile to the Position

The first thing to do is to tailor your resume profile to the position you're applying for. 

You can’t just take the lazy way out and create a one-size-fits-all resume profile. That way, you’re pretty much setting yourself up for failure.

Instead, it should 100% be written with the job you’re applying for in mind.

When writing your resume profile: 

• Look at the job ad you want to apply to;
• See the requirements;
• Tailor your profile accordingly.

Now, here’s what this looks like in practice. Let's say you're applying for a position in digital marketing.

• 1 - 3 years of experience with Google Ads
• Experience with Facebook Ads
• Excellent copywriting skills
• Experience using Google Tag Manager and Google Data Studio is an advantage

We highlighted all the must-have requirements with Bold and underlined what’s optional.

Now, let’s create the right resume profile for the job:

Google Ads Specialist with 2 years of experience in the creation and management of Google search, display and video ads. Six-month-long project experience with social media marketing. Highly skilled with Google Search, Facebook Ads Manager, and Google Tag Manager. Experienced in creating project reports for clients with Google Data Studio.

Step #2 - Mention Your Top Wins

Now let's look at what you CAN and CAN'T include in your resume profile.

DO's - Relevant :

• Top skills;
• Problems solved;
• Key achievements;
• Awards won;
• Anything that is irrelevant to the job applied for, no matter how big the achievement, how top the skill or how much effort you put into winning that award.

Now, let’s cover a practical example.

Let’s say that 2 candidates are applying for a Junior Javascript Developer position.

Here’s a resume profile done right:

• Recent Computer Science graduate with hands-on experience. Took part in 6-month-long Agile development process project, working with: JavaScript, HTML5, CSS3, Ajax, Rest, XML, Angular 2+ and jQuery. Completed “The Complete JavaScript Course 2019: Build Real Projects” course from Udemy. PMP Agile Certified Practitioner.
• Recent Computer Science graduate with 6 months of experience with JavaScript. Currently ongoing Master’s in Photography. Certified lifeguard and professional football player. Freelance writer with over 200,000 regular monthly readers.

See the difference between the two? The first is 100%, completely focused on the role.

The second, well, not so much.

Which one would you call in for an interview? Exactly!

Step #3 - Focus on Achievements (Instead of Responsibilities)

And last but not least – focus on achievements. 

Your resume profile should be a summary of the biggest wins in your career (not a list of things you’ve done).

Your goal here is to “Wow” the recruiter, not to get them saying “Oh, well, that’s OK, I guess.”

So for example, let’s see how this is NOT done

• Seasoned recruiter with experience in publishing job ads, sourcing candidates, and conducting interviews.

See the issue here? Anyone that’s into recruitment can say they’ve done this. You’re not saying anything special.

Now, what if we turn this example into an achievement:

• Seasoned recruiter with X+ years of experience in tech hiring. Hit and exceeded hiring KPIs by over 50% for 2019’s first and third quarter. Specialized in working with senior talent in software engineering and executive management.

See the difference? The first example is a very generic candidate, while the second is a high-achiever.

In some fields, you might not have a lot of achievements to mention - and that’s totally OK.

If you’re a cashier, for example, you can’t say that “you’ve processed over 1,000 transactions per month.”

In such cases, it’s totally OK to stick to responsibilities and experiences instead!

[Bonus] The Novorésumé Formula for Writing Resume Profiles

Having some difficulties with your resume profile?

• [Your Field] professional with X+ years of experience, skilled in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. Looking to apply my [Domain] knowledge as a [Job You’re Applying For] at [Company X]. Experience in [Top Achievement #1] and [Top Achievement #2].

Now, here’s what the template looks like when put into practice:

UX / UI Designer with 5+ years of experienced, skilled in Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop. Looking to apply my software design know-how as a lead UX designer at Company X. Previous experience in designing most of [Software Startup A] and [Software Startup B]’s software UX and UI.

Resume Profile Q&A

Still have some questions on how to polish up your resume profile? We’ve got you covered:

Q: How do I list a resume profile as a student ?

A: Simple! Go for a resume objective, instead of a profile. In that case, you’ll focus more on your skills and goals instead of work experience.

Don’t forget to specify where and how you got those skills. No need to go into in-depth explanations, but make sure they sound realistic and avoid vagueness at all costs.

Still have some space left? Feel free to add relevant university projects you’ve completed. 

Soon-to-be graduate from XYZ University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. 4.0 GPA in Experimental Psychology. Took part in a month-long internship at the university psych lab. Excelled at psych questionnaire development and implementation, and SPSS data analysis. Excited to transfer and develop skills further as a Junior Psychological Measurement Specialist at ABC Ltd.

Are you struggling with creating your first student resume? Check out our guide on how to create a resume with no experience!

Q: How do I list a resume profile as a career-changer ?

A: What you need to do here is focus on your transferable skills . Like so:

“Customer Support Specialist with over three years of experience in first and second-line phone and chat technical support, looking to transfer communication skills as a Sales Representative at XYZ Ltd. Excellent track record of reliability, being the main POC for all escalation points, and likeability, having received an average of 9.3/10 customer rating for the last two quarters.” 

23+ Practical Resume Profile Examples (For Every Field)

Need some inspiration with your resume profile?

Here are 23 practical resume profile examples you could borrow ideas from...

Customer Service & Sales

Customer service specialist resume profile.

“Motivated and experienced first-line customer service and support specialist with over three years of work put into tech support, troubleshooting and customer satisfaction. Experienced with LiveAgent and ZenDesk. Excellent track record in providing excellent support service. XYZ Ltd.’s employee of the month for May 2019 for receiving a 99.99% support satisfaction rate.”

Not sure how to build a customer service resume ? We have a guide for that!

Sales Associate Resume Profile

“Accomplished Sales Associate with experience in business and private persons insurance sales. Excellent people and communication skills, proven by last two quarters’ personal success in exceeding department’s KPIs by 25%.”

Want to create a sales associate resume that lands you the job? Check out our guide!

Administration

Executive assistant resume profile.

“Executive Assistant with 2+ years of experience as the companies’ CEO right-hand man. Successfully carried out all key administrative tasks, from communicating with company clients to data entry and creating well-researched office documentation. Highly skilled at MS Office tools.”

Receptionist Resume Profile

“Motivated, communicative receptionist with 5+ years of experience as an office administrator and receptionist in both big and small companies. Meticulous record-keeping, and experience working with MS Office Pack, Intranet and physical bookkeeping.”

For more examples, check out our receptionist resume guide.

Data Entry Clerk Resume Profile

“Data entry clerk with 3+ years of experience in high quantity complex data screening, entry and maintenance . Highly skilled at Excel; extremely fast typer and knowledgeable about digital databases. Strong attention to detail and dedication to the job.”

Copywriter Resume Profile

“SaaS copywriter specializing in landing page optimization. 2+ years of experience writing compelling content for e-mail, Facebook and Google marketing. Experienced in using Google Optimizely and Firebase for A/B testing. Previously worked with Unbounce to create and test new landing pages from scratch.”

PPC Specialist Resume Profile

“Driven PPC Specialist with over 4 years of experience in digital marketing. Proficient at: Google AdWords, Google Analytics, Facebook Ads Manager and LinkedIn Ad Platform. Some copywriting skills gained through freelancing. Experience handling an advertising budget of $80,000 with excellent ROI results.”

Need help creating your marketing resume ? We’ve got your back!

Business and Management

Project manager resume profile.

“Dedicated project manager with 3+ years of experience managing IT projects. Managed 5+ software projects from beginning to completion. Basic understanding of several programming languages, including React, Node.Js, and Java. ”

Check out our project manager resum e guide for more examples!

Business Analyst Resume Profile

“Results-driven Business Analyst with over 7 years of experience in consulting businesses, analyzing their processes and operations and presenting them with practical business solutions. 2 years of experience consulting one of the Fortune 500 companies. Experience using several business process management software solutions, including Appian BPM. Helped increase XYZ LTD’s manufacturing output by over 2.5%.”

Human Resources (HR)

Human resources resume profile.

“HR Specialist with two years of experience in developing small companies’ HR strategies, employee training and organizing company events, while under a tight budget. Experienced with the entire talent acquisition process from recruitment to the retention of employees.”

Recruitment Specialist Resume Profile

“Recruitment Specialist with a B.A. in Human Resources and M.A. in Work and Organizational Psychology with full-scope recruitment experience with both active and passive candidate sourcing. Sourced, interviewed and hired 15+ software engineers in Company X’s expansion efforts to Canada in 2021. ”

Finance & Accounting

Bank teller resume profile.

“Bank Teller with one year of experience as the front office cashier and customer service representative at XYZ Bank’s main office. Experienced with handling customer transactions and inquiries. Highly skilled at customer satisfaction, following bank SOPs and complying with data privacy and safety deposit box standard guidelines.”

Check out our bank teller resume guide for more examples!

Accountant Resume Profile

“Certified Public Accountant with over 8 years of experience. Solid knowledge of US GAAP and accounting systems. Top skills include budget forecasting, advanced computer skills, and analytical reasoning. Looking for a new challenge as an accountant at Company X.”

Check out our accountant resume guide for more examples!

Food & Service

Waiter/waitress resume profile.

“Experienced Waitress with a polite and friendly demeanor. Skilled at working in fast-paced environments; extremely good memory and able to memorize menus quickly and without fault. Previous experience includes working in Restaurant X and Bar Y.”

Check out our guide to server resumes for more examples!

Supermarket Cashier Resume Profile

“Experienced and reliable cashier with a polite and friendly demeanor. Worked at Happy Fun Resort over the past 2 summers as cashier in Company X and Company Y. Strong computer skills and experience working with PoS systems. ”

Discover how to make a cashier resume that excels with our article!

Housekeeper Resume Profile

“Dedicated and hard-working housekeeper with 6+ years of experience with both hotel and private home housekeeping. Very punctual and efficient. Previous experience working at Hotel X and Uncle Bob’s Private Cleaning Crew.”

Technical & IT

Data analyst resume profile.

“Data Analyst with 3+ years of experience. Highly data and detail-oriented with excellent analytical thinking. Background in mathematics, statistics, and computer science. Proven track record of using data to improve company operations. ”

Check out our guide to the data analyst resume for more examples.

Software Engineer Resume Profile

“Full-stack software engineer with 5+ years of experience developing end-to-end software solutions. Worked as head engineer at Tech Company X, leading a team of developers working on a new software solution in the Fin-Tech industry. Expert in Node.Js, React, and Java.”

Discover how to make a software engineer resume that excels with our article!

IT Specialist Resume Profile

“Dedicated IT specialist with 5+ years of experience. Previous positions involved network management and database administration. Advanced knowledge of SQL, C++ and Linux. ”

Need an extra push with your resume? Discover top tips on creating an IT resume in 2024.

Computer Science Resume Profile

“Results-oriented computer science student from University Y looking for an entry-level software engineering position. Good communication skills and team player, having led several teams for university projects. Practical experience working with JavaScript, MySQL, and PHP. ”

For more on computer science resumes , check out our dedicated guide.

Nurse Resume Profile

“Nurse RN with 8+ years of experience providing excellent patient care. M.A. in nursing. Expert at charting, patient care, and medicine administration. Seeking to leverage my experience as a nurse at Hospital X.”

Discover more nurse resume examples in our dedicated guide!

Dental Assistant Resume Profile

“Dental assistant with over 5 years of experience in the field. Charged with direct patient care, patient record-keeping, and routine lab works. Strong knowledge of the Dentrix software.

Graphic Design

Graphic designer resume profile.

“Graphic design specialist with 3+ years of experience working with design and marketing agencies. Responsible for every step of the design process, from conceptualization, to execution. Practical experience in designing flyers, websites, landing pages, and more. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite and MS Office. Good communication skills.”

Need an extra push with your resume? Discover top tips on creating a graphic designer resume in 2024.

UI/UX Designer Resume Profile

“Detail-oriented UX / UI designer with 5+ years of experience creating end-to-end digital experiences. Designed software solutions in the fin-tech and hr-tech industries. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French.”

Other Fields

Architect resume profile.

“Architect with 4+ years of experience in landscape design, interior and exterior design, with a focus on designing commercial and residential buildings. Strong attention to detail and creative thinker.”

Discover the top tips for creating an architect resume in 2024 with our guide.

Warehouse Worker Resume Profile

“Hard-working warehouse worker with 4 years of experience in the industry. Physically fit, able to lift heavy objects. Previous experience at Made Up Delivery Solutions involved shipping, receiving and packaging goods.”

Discover more nurse warehouse worker resume examples in our dedicated guide!

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

Now, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A resume profile is a short, 2-4 sentences run-down of your top career highlights and achievements
• A resume profile is also known as a resume summary and resume profile statement.
• Don’t have much work experience? You might want to go for a resume objective instead.
• Every good resume head should include your years of experience (“5+ years of experience doing…”), top achievements (“Increased XYZ LTD’s ROI by X%”), and relevant skills (“Skilled in React, Node.JS, and Java”).

Looking for more career and resume advice? We recommend checking out our career blog for industry-leading articles on how to land the job & succeed in your career!

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20+ Resume Profile Examples for All Industries (+ How-to Guide)

A resume profile is a short paragraph (3–5 sentences) at the top of your resume that summarizes your career so far. It contains only crucial information like your proudest accomplishments, top skills, or key experiences. Based on it, recruiters will instantly know whether you’re a relevant candidate, and they’ll carefully read your resume instead of barely scanning it.

We’ll help you write an attention-grabbing resume profile statement and provide tips on how to pick out the relevant information to include.

You’ll also get 20+ resume profile examples to steal or get inspired by.

After reading this article, you’ll know:

• How to create an attention-grabbing, high-quality resume profile
• How to highlight your best achievements
• How to customize your resume profile statement for each new position (it’s easier than it sounds!)
• Most common mistakes to avoid

What Is a Resume Profile?

A resume profile is a short block of text at the top of your resume, right below contact information.

It’s an umbrella term for a resume summary and a resume objective . So when you come across the term resume profile or resume profile statement, remember that it basically means a resume summary and occasionally (for candidates who have limited experience) a resume objective. (Click the links above if you want to learn more about what makes these two different.)

A profile section of a resume contains only the key information from your career.

⚠️ Pro tip: It should always be focused on what you can do for the company, not on what you want out of the job. You can negotiate your conditions later on — in a resume profile, you need to show the value you bring to the table.

Let’s take a look at a good resume profile example.

Notice how the candidate focuses on their areas of expertise and backs them up with specific, quantifiable achievements (%). They also mention being excited about joining the company and how they can contribute.

Sample resume profile

Experienced Retail Store Manager with 5+ years in the industry, responsible for leading teams and driving sales. Increased sales year-over-year by 17% and reduced employee churn by 21%. Strong leadership and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to coach and develop others. Excited about joining Zara’s team and increasing sales through outstanding customer service and organizational skills.

Below is a bad resume profile statement example for the same position.

I’m a dedicated Retail Store Manager. My experience includes managing a store and making sales, as well as onboarding and training new employees. I speak fluent Spanish and possess outstanding communication skills. I’m looking to join a company where I could further develop my sales and managerial skills.

Not horrible? Maybe. But far from stellar. Here’s why:

• The candidate described their position, even though it’s common knowledge what that position entails.
• They did not include any quantifiable results or proof of their skills and expertise.
• This resume profile also lacks powerful words or action verbs that would make it more impactful.
• Finally, the candidate used a lot of personal pronouns, which is a big no-no (a resume is always written without a subject).

Resume Profile Examples for the Most Popular Industries and Professions

Here’s the list of resume profile examples for different industries and professions. We hope it will help you get inspired to write your own professional profile for a resume efficiently.

(Or you can just copy the example relevant to your industry, tweak the metrics and the wording a bit and you’ll be good to go!)

If you want to learn more about the ins and outs of writing a resume profile and get step-by-step tips for how to create yours, feel free to scroll down to the next section.

Store Manager resume profile

Experienced retail Store Manager with 5+ years of experience in the apparel industry. Strong leadership and communication skills with a demonstrated ability to coach and develop others. Increased sales year-over-year by 21% and decreased employee churn by 17%. Excited about joining Zara’s team and increasing sales through outstanding customer service and managerial skills.

Customer Service Representative resume profile

Patient and highly organized Senior Customer Service Representative with 5+ years of experience in the trucking and logistics industry. Extensive experience with all major electronic logging devices. Successfully finished 2022 with a 97.2% customer satisfaction rate, leading a team of 7. Looking to join Interex’s team, form a Customer Care team, and establish procedures and benchmarks for successful operations.

Call Center Representative resume profile

Resourceful Call Center Representative with 2+ years of experience in the B2B sector. Highly developed communication and problem-solving skills; thrives in fast-paced environments. At Spinfluence, increased customer satisfaction rates by 27% and handled 70-80 customer calls daily. Excited about joining Omnilert and leading customer service initiatives to boost satisfaction rates and company reputation.

Content Writer resume profile

A dedicated recent graduate with M.A. in English language and literature. 5+ years of writing experience for various types of content, including descriptive, analytical, persuasive, and critical content. Winner of the Alexander Rose Memorial Award for Excellence in Creative Writing in 2021. Excited about contributing to Big Interview’s content marketing team with superb research, writing, and editing skills.

Business Development Manager resume profile

A motivated Business Development Manager with more than 8 years of experience in the fashion industry. Secured a $3.2M contract in previous company and boosted yearly revenue by 32%. Excited about contributing to Skill Communication’s revenue with extraordinary marketing and sales knowledge and skills.

Nurse resume profile

Diligent, registered nurse with 15+ years of experience in private and public hospitals throughout Europe. Specialized in ER, ICU, and burn unit. Nurtured over 45,000 patients and increased customer satisfaction by 25% by adopting and implementing new medical quality control procedures. Wants to join Clearwater hospital and contribute to service quality with excellent medical and people skills.

Software Engineer resume profile

Dedicated Software Engineer with more than 4 years of experience in the education industry. Advanced knowledge of Ruby on Rails, Java, JavaScript, SQL Server, and No SQL. Created numerous features for an interviewing and resume-building platform that generated more than 1M users. Eager to join Big Interview and build advanced features for users around the world.

HR Professional resume profile

People-oriented HR professional with 5+ years of experience. Skilled at employee retention and development. Created and implemented a new learning and development system, which resulted in a 32% employee churn decrease. Excited about joining Aventura and building a world-class team with exceptional human capital and workplace culture development skills.

Marketing Manager resume profile

Data-oriented Marketing Manager with 7 years of experience in the advertising industry. Focused on and excelling at content marketing and email marketing. Successfully handled 7 key accounts with a 95% customer satisfaction score. Looking to join Essence’s Marketing team and increase revenue through tried-and-tested marketing tactics.

Security Guard resume profile

Reliable Security Guard with over 10 years of experience in retail settings. Highly skilled in non-violent crisis management. Overlooked the entire building with only 2 safety incidents in the last 3 years. Wants to join Sephora and ensure a safe working environment through outstanding surveillance and property safety skills.

Receptionist resume profile

Dependable Receptionist with 15 years of experience at luxury hotels. Excels at administrative and front-desk tasks. Fluent in Spanish and Italian. In 2022, handled telecommunications and scheduling with 100% accuracy. Excited about building White Lotus’s image through outstanding customer service skills.

Food Delivery resume profile

Efficient and dependable Food Delivery Driver with 2 years of experience. Skilled in meeting strict deadlines in hectic environments. Winner of the Employee of the month award three times in a row at Dominic’s Pizza. Looking to join Vega and drive brand loyalty through punctual, customer-oriented service.

Accountant resume profile

Ethical Accountant with over 20 years of experience in tax accounting and financial auditing. Skilled in data analysis and budgeting. Reduced a client’s overall business expenditure, saving the company $1M over the course of one year. Enthusiastic about joining Lira IT, managing accounting transactions, and improving company profits.

Project Manager resume profile

Highly organized Project Manager with 5 years of experience in the SaaS space. Excels at planning and managing product implementation and development. Planned and forecasted resource requirements with 98% accuracy in the last 2 years. Excited about joining BackEight and building a successful email automation solution.

Administrative Assistant resume profile

Reliable Administrative Assistant with 3 years of experience. Possesses a strong understanding of corporate policies and procedures. Increased Operations’ team productivity by 32% by simplifying existing operational regulations. Looking to join Evito and support the team with outstanding organizational skills.

Teacher resume profile

Dedicated English teacher with 9 years of experience in high schools. Skilled at implementing numerous pedagogical strategies to successfully teach and develop adolescent students. Winner of the Teacher of the Year award in 2022. Excited to join Eagleton High School and contribute to youth education and development through extensive pedagogical experience.

How to Write a Resume Profile

Here’s a foolproof formula for you:

[Your position + years of experience + industry]. [General experience + key skills]. [Your biggest achievements (quantitative or qualitative)]. [How you can contribute to the company you’ve applied for].

And here’s the process of writing a resume profile statement:

Mention your job title and years of experience

List your key skills, mention your top achievements, describe how your past experience can translate into success for the new organization, write your resume profile last.

• Tailor each resume profile statement to a specific job ad

Let’s break it down and help you craft a show-stopping professional profile for a resume that will land you that interview.

Adding your current (or latest) job title and years of experience (and optionally industry) will give recruiters some context right away. Spice it up with one or two key adjectives that best describe you.

For example:

• A creative Content Writer with 4+ years of experience in the B2B space.
• A dedicated Customer Service Representative with 2 years of experience in the trucking and logistics industry.
• Senior Retail Manager with 9+ years of experience.

In the next sentence, list your key skills relevant to the position. If you’re changing industries or have limited experience, think of relevant transferable skills you could bring up. As always, try to be as specific as possible.

• Skilled at writing long-form, educational content for one of the top 10 largest HR firms in the US.
• Highly developed communication and problem-solving skills; thrives in fast-paced environments.
• Excels at training and leading email marketing teams and driving sales.

Remember those quantifiable achievements you need to list in the Work Experience section ?

It’s time to pick out the most impressive one and list it in the profile section of a resume.

Remember the time you saved the company some money; or increased sales; or engaged and retained customers or team members? List that.

Can’t come up with an impressive achievement?

Think about your duties and view them through the lens of:

• Frequency: how often you delivered, how many calls you took per day, etc.
• Scale: how many people you managed, how big the budgets you handled were.
• Qualitative achievements: if you don’t have hard numbers but you know you did something well, mention it. This can be a promotion, employee of the month award, etc.
• Increased blog traffic by 21% in 2022.
• Increased customer satisfaction rates by 19% in 2021 by developing and implementing a new operational policy.
• Increased monthly sales by 37% in Q3 2022 and decreased employee churn by 13% through a new reward and development program.
• Winner of the Employee of the Month award 3 months in a row.
• Successfully taking 50–70 customer calls per day and resolving issues within 10 minutes.

For more help, read all about How to list achievements and accomplishments on a resume (tons of examples included).

Remember that you need to focus on how you will contribute to the company, not on what you need from it.

Now’s the time to do it.

This sentence is usually the last one. In it, say that you are excited to join their company and do X by means of Y.

X = The plans or initiatives that were mentioned in the job ad; or the goals planned for that particular position.

Y = Your experience and expertise.

• Excited about joining Big Interview and leading customer service initiatives to boost satisfaction rates and company reputation.
• Looking to contribute to Big Interview’s content strategy with superb writing, editing, and SEO skills.
• Excited to join Zara’s retail team to boost sales and increase customer satisfaction with excellent customer service and communication skills.

A friendly piece of advice: although a resume profile statement comes at the top of your resume, make it the last section you write.

This is a very short paragraph that needs to contain only the essential information. If you write it first, you’ll likely forget to include a valuable piece of info. You’ll also probably be a bit vague and waste precious space.

So write it at the very end. You’ll be able to see the bigger picture, prioritize information, and pick out the jewels of your career thus far.

Tailor each resume profile to a specific job ad

We always recommend tailoring your entire resume to a specific job ad — the resume profile is no different.

Each job ad contains specific requirements and keywords. Including those keywords will prove that you have the exact experience they’re looking for.

In addition, it will help you pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) easily.

Here are some tips on how to make your resume stand out:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here’s a bad example of a professional profile for a resume for a Store Manager. On the face of it, it looks fine. Heck, it actually seems to follow the formula we outlined above! But let’s take a closer look.

Let’s dissect it to see which common mistakes you need to avoid.

Being generic

Whenever you can, include details about the industry you’re in, the type of clients you worked for, work achievements and not duties, and how exactly you can contribute to the company.

The example above is generic as it contains a lot of words that say essentially nothing.

“Motivated store manager with over 5 years of retail experience”.

❌ “Motivated” might not be the best adjective to use, as it’s not painting an exact picture and it’s a general trait that is not THAT relevant to a store manager position. Highly organized? Reliable? Process-driven? Much better! These tell us a bit about the person’s capabilities and priorities.

❌ “…Over 5 years of retail experience” — if they’re a store manager, it’s very likely they’re in retail. Instead of being generic, they could have mentioned the industry (apparel; cosmetics, auto retailers, home furnishing, etc.).

Be as specific as possible; otherwise, you’ll leave recruiters in the dark.

Using buzzwords and meaningless jargon

Buzzwords waste space. They’re the fast food of your resume. Tempting but useless.

❌ “Looking for new opportunities to utilize my skills and experience to drive business success”. Utilize what to do what? What does business success even mean?

Not to mention the fact that this candidate appears focused on themselves and their goals only.

Not referring to the job ad

We’ve said this so many times we’re getting a bit tired of ourselves.

The resume profile, the work experience section, skills, tailor everything.

Not quantifying your achievements

Always quantify your achievements; otherwise, recruiters won’t know how good at your job you are.

Key Takeaways

• A resume profile is like a trailer for the movie that is your resume. You need to crush it or your resume’s box office will be a flop.
• Use this bulletproof formula: [Position + experience + industry] + [General experience + key skills] + [Biggest achievements (quantitative or qualitative)] + [Potential contribution] .
• Hand-pick your key skills and best achievements.
• Explain how your experience can contribute to the prospective company’s success.
• Write your resume profile last, after you’re done with the rest of the resume.
• Tailor each resume profile statement to a specific job ad.
• Don’t be generic and don’t use buzzwords.
• Have someone check your resume (look for missing info, formatting inconsistencies, typos, etc.). A quick and easy solution is to upload your resume to our Resume AI tool which will give you exhaustive feedback and help you polish your profile section of a resume and the rest of it.

_______________________

Need a hand? There’s 3 ways we can help you:

• Learn how to write an eye-catching resume that lands jobs
• Discover how to list work experience in a resume
• Get Resume AI and improve your resume minutes

Now go and write! Good luck!

How to write a resume profile if I have no experience?

If you don’t have relevant experience, you can create an effective resume objective (remember that resume profile is an umbrella term for both resume summary and resume objective). In your resume objective, you will focus on who you are as a professional and what you look for in your career and in a particular role. Emphasize your potential, your transferable skills, relevant certifications and courses, and how you can contribute to the company. As always, you’ll want to tailor your resume objective to each role you apply for.

Do I have to include the profile section on my resume?

It is recommended to include a profile section of a resume, resume summary, or resume objective because they help grab recruiters’ and hiring managers’ attention. Including a resume profile also helps save the hiring decision maker’s time, immediately presenting how your skills are relevant to the job.

What’s the difference between a resume profile, a resume summary, and a resume objective?

A resume profile is an umbrella term for resume summary and resume objective. A resume summary is a paragraph at the top of a resume that provides a short overview of your key achievements, skills, and qualifications. It’s suitable for experienced professionals. It is focused on what you bring to the table and how the company will benefit from having you on their team. A resume objective, on the other hand, focuses on your career goals and aspirations. It includes the type of job you’re seeking and what you want to achieve in that role. It’s suitable for candidates with no experience, for entry-level positions, or career changers.

What are the best words to use in a resume profile?

The best words to use in a professional profile for a resume are action verbs which showcase your drive and achievements (accomplished, administered, achieved, increased, decreased, doubled, converted, solved, executed, established, implemented…), and power words to better describe you (result-oriented, analytical, innovative, adaptable, committed, experienced…).

What to include in a professional resume profile?

Include your position, years of experience, and industry. Then, a bit of general experience and some of your key skills. Add your proudest accomplishments and quantify them, and finish off with a short description of how you can contribute to the company.

Should a resume include a profile picture?

In the US (and many other countries), it is not recommended to include a headshot on a resume in order to avoid discrimination and unconscious bias. Besides, the whole point of your resume is to highlight your achievements and skills which have nothing to do with the way you look. However, in some countries (mainly in Asia and South America) people usually include their photos. Although we still don’t recommend it, it’s best to check best practices for the company and the country in which you’re applying. Of course, certain job ads will require a photo, so you’ll need to include it in your resume (like for modeling, acting, etc.).

Maja Stojanovic

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How To Write An Effective Resume Profile (With Examples)

In This Guide:

Tackling the difficulty of writing “about me”, do you need a resume profile, professional resume profile: how to write one, examples from different industries, what else can you include besides a resume profile, what is the difference between a resume profile and resume summary, resume profile: gotchas & takeaways.

Title: “How To Write An Effective Resume Profile (With Examples)”

In a world full of distractions, it’s extremely hard to get someone’s attention.

Recruiters and hiring managers are no exception.

That’s why starting with a decent resume profile is a great way to hook the reader and get their attention.

This way, you can significantly increase your chances of landing a job interview.

In the following article you will learn:

• How to overcome the struggle of writing about yourself
• When and why you need a resume profile
• How to write one that will put you ahead of other applicants
• Real industry examples to help you find inspiration

Let’s dive right in!

Writing about yourself is simply the easiest task for some and at the same time the most difficult one for others.

But why is that so?

In most cases, the reason is a lack of confidence or no clear idea of what information is most pertinent.

Luckily, we are here to help you.

We will provide you with an outline of how to write a great resume profile, and help you feel more comfortable with describing your ambitions, goals, and previous achievements.

But before we discuss why you need a resume profile, here are a few tips on how not to sound awkward:

• Don’t try to make people like you
• Don’t use jokes in your resume profile
• Rephrase your sentences to find the best, yet simple, wording
• Shorten your sentences and be specific

But first and foremost, what is a resume profile?

A resume profile is a section of a resume that includes a brief summary of an applicant’s previous experience, skills, and future goals related to a specific job opening.

With that being said, you know that this  resume section  can really help you stand out among the rest of the candidates.  

To fully understand what to include in it, you need to ask yourself the following questions:

• Are you changing careers?
• Are you an experienced professional?
• Are you an entry-level worker, a recent college graduate, or still a college student?

If you are changing careers, you should highlight your previous achievements and proven track record of successful case studies in your recent jobs. You can briefly describe why you decided to change your career path and embark on a new journey, professionally.

If the answer to the second question is yes, you can write even more about your previous success stories.

Mention how you helped your former company achieve great results and why you were a valued member of the team. You might also include a “promise” of how you can help your new employer achieve their goals based on your experience and knowledge.

And last, if you are an entry-level worker or still a college student, focus on the future! Set new goals that you want to achieve and describe how you fit the company’s mission and culture.

We know it may sound overwhelming, but don’t worry. If you follow the structure, creating a resume profile is simple!

As we mentioned, it’s all about the right structure and points you want to highlight.

Based on our long-term experience, we found the formula to create the perfect resume profile!

All you need to highlight is:

• Key achievements

Start with your experience. If you have a long employment history, tailor your resume and your resume profile in a way it suits the position you’re applying to.

If you are not sure how to tailor your resume properly, don’t hesitate to check out our detailed article where we guide you through the process!

Key achievements are also a great way to show your expertise and convince the hiring manager that you are the right applicant for the job. Add them right after the experience to bring more value to the opening lines.

Last but not least, highlight your technical and soft skills to enrich your resume profile even more. Present yourself as a professional with great technical knowledge and a colleague who is always there for the team!

Where does it go in your resume?

Your resume profile is a perfect fit for the top of your resume. Most recruiters won’t read the document if the start is not relevant to the position. Always begin with the header, followed by the resume profile.

The hiring managers will get to know you and your goals and will be able to decide whether to give you a chance or not.

Let’s check out some great industry examples!

Project Management Resume Profile example:

As you can see, Alex writes about his 5 years’ experience in covering project and product management to demonstrate strong experience in the field. After that, he presents himself as a fast and eager learner, who can quickly adapt to any changes and project requirements.

The whole resume profile is simple, clear, and straight to the point!

Interior Design Resume Profile Example:

In this case, John Seamore lacks a work history but has 3 years of freelance and volunteer experience. He plays well with the numbers to strengthen the statement in his resume profile.

The resume profile is simple, clear, and gives enough valuable information to the hiring managers!

Computer Science Resume Objective Example:

<>Here, the applicant again lacks work experience, but the approach is different. He speaks more about what his goal is – to join the ABC development team as a software engineer. He mentions his position as a co-founder of SaveIt student finance management service, which shows he has an entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to develop. Again, the whole summary is clear and straight to the point.

CHECK OUT 10 MORE EXAMPLES OF RESUME PROFILES HERE

A resume profile is only one of the  secondary resume sections  you might want to include to empower your CV.

Some other sections to consider are:

• Headline title – This is the opening section at the top of your resume that serves as a way for the recruiters to get to know who you are and how to contact you. It’s the first thing an employer should see and the one that makes the first impression.
• Key achievements section – In this section, it’s appropriate to give more information about your greatest achievements and any certificates earned.
• Strengths – If you have strong characteristics that you want to share with your future employer, this section is the right place for that!
• My time – The distribution of your time is a great way to describe what type of person you are as well as outline your hobbies and interests.

Frankly, there is no difference at all.

A resume profile is another way to say resume objective or resume summary. The purpose of these sections is the same – to grab the attention of the reader, present you in the best possible way and tilt the scales in your direction.

Let’s summarize:

• It’s not so hard to write about yourself if you know the right structure and process.
• No matter if you just finished university or if you are on the path to a career change, you need a resume profile.
• Following our formula can help you write a professional resume profile quickly and easily.
• Your resume profile should be unique, depending on the industry you are operating in.
• There is no difference between a resume profile and summary.

What did you think of this article? Do you feel ready to create an awesome resume profile? Share your thoughts in the comments! :)

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How To Write A Resume Profile (With Examples)

• How To Write A Resume
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• How To Write A Resume Profile

When writing your resume , you will typically consider the top portion as either an overview or profile. This section is incredibly significant on your resume, as it’s the first thing your potential employer will read. It gives them a good indication of who you are as a professional and a person.

You will want to give this part a good amount of consideration when crafting your resume. You may even choose to write different profiles for different job opportunities, depending on the role and qualifications. Below, we discuss more about resume profiles.

Key Takeaways:

A resume profile is a brief summary of qualifications, experience, and goals found at the top of the resume.

A resume profile helps capture the reader’s attention and entices them to learn more.

A specific job title, experience, hard skills, and soft skills should all be found in a resume profile.

A resume profile is different from a resume objective, which focuses more on the the type of position you want to obtain.

What Is a Resume Profile?

Why it’s a good idea to use a resume profile, what to include in a resume profile, resume profile vs. resume objective, tips for writing a resume profile, example resume profiles, resume profile frequently asked questions.

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A resume profile is a part of your resume or curriculum vitae ( CV ) that provides a brief summary of an applicant. This section can include skills, qualifications, experience, and goals related to the job opportunity. The resume profile is sometimes called a resume summary or overview.

You may also choose to include a headline indicating what your job goal might be, where you include the number of years you’ve been in the industry and any specific qualifications you might possess. This can sometimes help get your potential employer’s attention.

Resume profiles are typically short, kept to two to five sentences. These can be in a bulleted form or a brief paragraph, depending on your preferences. The summary should be a quick snapshot of your skills, experience, accomplishments , and specific knowledge.

As mentioned earlier in this article, a resume profile is typically the first thing your potential employer or hiring manager will see when they pick up your resume. When done effectively, this portion of your resume will be designed to capture the reader ’s attention. You should consider customizing your profiles for each job you apply for, or at least for specific job titles .

For example, suppose you are in marketing, and you possess a wide range of skills. In that case, you can create a few different resume profiles, such as one for digital marketing, social media marketing, product marketing, and more. Doing this will help you stand out from the competition, especially if many applicant resumes are more generalized.

Your resume profile should be a few sentences, either in bulleted form or a short paragraph. This part will summarize your goals and ambitions for the next job you hope to land. This is your selling point and should include all of your relevant qualifications, skills, and experience in your field of expertise. Here’s what to include in your resume profile:

Title. Be sure to title your section. You can choose from “Overview,” “Qualifications Profile,” “Professional Summary,” or “Qualifications Summary,” depending on which fits you best.

Specific job title. When crafting your profile, be sure you give yourself a specific job title in the career field of your choice. This should be as specific as you can get without going overboard. Terms like “ business development representative ,” “guidance counselor ,” or “digital marketer ” are appropriate terms.

Experience. Be sure to include the number of years of experience you have under your belt in your field in your first line. Use it in conjunction with your job title and write something like, “ Social media marketer with 10+ years experience.”

Hard skills . The reader of your resume wants to be sure they’re not wasting their time by looking through your resume. This means you should surface your important hard skills upfront in your profile to give them a good indication of your experience and skills. Something like “crafting effective digital campaigns and strategies” is appropriate.

Soft skills . You’ll want to balance your hard skills with soft skills, especially if you’re applying for a customer-facing or management position. Employers require hard skills, certainly, but soft skills shouldn’t be overlooked.

Your resume profile should sound something like this:

“Driven social media marketer with 10+ years of experience crafting effective digital campaigns and strategies. Skilled at both written and oral communication and effectively managing large and diverse teams. Advanced knowledge of Marketo and Pardot. Certified Salesforce Advanced Administrator.”

You may hear resume profile and resume objective used interchangeably. It may not seem like it, but there are differences between the two terms. It’s important to understand the meaning of each so that you consider which is more appropriate to use on your resume.

A resume profile is essentially a summary of your work history . Typically the job seeker will do this by identifying their years of experience, a description of their skills and abilities, and a summary of any relevant qualifications. The profile should be focused on experience, so if you have many years in a specific field, using a resume profile is your best bet.

A resume objective is more focused on what type of employment position you are looking to obtain. The objective will specifically call out what you’re searching for while listing some key skills and accomplishments that may let the hiring manager know that you’re the right fit for the job.

When you’re writing your resume profile, think of it as a short pitch you might make to someone to convince them you’re right for the job. What are the key things you can surface that might convince them that you’re the right fit for their team? Consider asking yourself some of the questions below to build out an effective resume profile.

How many years of experience do I have working in this career field? In this industry?

What skill sets do I have that may be beneficial to this specific job or the company?

How would I describe myself to a hiring manager in under 60 seconds?

What is my proudest professional accomplishment?

Is there an example of previous work experience I can include in my profile to make it stand out?

After answering those questions to yourself, consider the following:

Keep it short. A resume profile should grab the reader’s attention. Only give the information you need to make the reader want to learn more. Too many words and you risk losing the reader and you will waste valuable space that could be used elsewhere on your resume.

Use action words. Make your profile stand out with some authority. Use vocabulary that highlights who you are and declares yourself to be an exceptionally qualified candidate.

Be specific and use quantifiable achievements. A vague profile is just a waste of space. Make sure your profile clearly makes you unique.

Avoid cliches. While using action words and listing specifics are important, avoid presenting them in a manner that sounds just like everyone else, or worse, amateur.

With these in mind, you can be sure to make an impactful resume profile.

Certified Public Accountant with 15+ years of accounting experience in real estate and ten years supervisory experience in financial reporting/general ledger. Fully knowledgeable in SOX work, financial reporting, budgeting, developing and maintaining accounting policies and procedures, and journal entry preparation. Passionate about client satisfaction and team growth.

Customer services specialist with ten years of management experience. Strong communication skills with certifications in employee mediation and team-building strategies. Proven efficiency and effectiveness as a manager in over three stores, most recently by implementing new service strategies to increase customer satisfaction by almost 50%.

Passionate educator with six years of economics teaching experience and a Master’s degree in Business. Certification in teaching business, economics, and social studies in K-12 schools. Certified in the state of Delaware , New Jersey, New York , and Connecticut .

Focused information technology professional with sixteen years of experience as a software support specialist for top software companies . Skilled at multitasking and handling a multitude of platforms. Quick learned with a passion for technology. Capable of explaining complex software features in broad terms.

Product marketing director with 15+ years of experience in field and product marketing. Successfully create strategies and execution plans to increase sales by as much as 50% in some markets. Excellent management skills . Effective communicator with a knack for copywriting.

How do you write a personal profile on a resume?

Write a personal profile on a resume by concisely describing your qualifications. You want your profile to be a hook that entices the reader to learn more about you. Therefore, keep your profile short and interesting with specific information unique to you. Gear your profile specifically to the job you are applying to.

Are resume profiles helpful?

Yes, resume profiles are very helpful. Resume profiles give you the chance to highlight some of your qualifications and advertise to the reader that you are worth their time. Resume profiles are also great to help you understand what are your goals and qualifications.

Where does a resume profile go?

A resume profile goes at the top of your resume. In this way the resume profile acts as a preview about yourself. The quick summary gives the reader an idea about what is to follow and can help determine whether or not they wish to continue reading.

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

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Click here to directly go to the complete resume profile summary examples

Character is higher than intellect.

"I was born to be true, not to be perfect" or "I never dreamed about success, I worked for it" does not suffice for a good resume profile.

It is understood that "character cannot be developed in ease and quiet". But the "trial and suffering" - the experiences and the achievements which reflect our character are often tricky to frame.

A profile section of resume does the job for you. The resume profile summary is a snapshot of all your experiences which introduces you to the recruiter. It tells:

• why you are an important candidate
• which skills set you apart
• how you can add value in their organization

Along with a few expert resume profile examples, including resume profile summary examples, we have characterized the resume profile while answering a few of the main questions:

• What is a resume profile?
• When to use a resume profile
• What to put in profile section of resume?
• How to write a profile for a resume?
• How to optimizing your resume profile?
• Resume profile examples for top professionals

Never let your resume profile be the reason for the lack of shortlists.

What Is a Resume Profile?

The profile on resume is the teaser for your resume body. It builds a foundation in the mind of the hiring manager.

He spends about 10 seconds on each resume. So your best achievements have a chance of getting lost in the resume.

But don't worry, as this section could be best utilized to bring them to the hiring manager's attention.

For an experienced professional , a resume profile summary is:

• a summary of one's professional endeavor
• a paragraph of 2 - 3 sentences
• placed at the top
• denotes one's skillset
• highlights the best achievements
• tailored to the target job

For a fresher , however, the resume profile statement is:

• an objective of his professional pursuit
• expresses one's strong suite
• allows the recruiter to understand how you may serve as a desiring candidate to the target organization.

It usually states your career title and years of experience right away. Then it shows your most preferred achievements best fitting your target job.

It is highly recommended that you introduce resume keywords in your resume profile so that the Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) can parse your resume clearly.

Let's look at how to write a resume profile. But first, let's look at a few resume profile examples:

Objective resume profile statement for a Finance Graduate

Dynamic and result-oriented Finance Graduate adept at deploying analytical & database tools to scrutinize business operations. Proficient in employing effective data analysis techniques for sound decision-making & successful execution of projects. A goal-seeking individual with a comprehensive understanding of taxation & accounting principles and possessing a natural flair for research encompassing primary & secondary channels.

Resume Profile Summary for an IT Recruitment Specialist

11+ years experienced, value-driven & result-oriented Senior Quality Assurance Manager & Telecom Specialist with a track record of spearheading diverse teams to champion LTE/WCDMA/CDMA/GSM Optimization, including 42 months of experience in RF Optimization/Tuning for LTE & 25 months for GSM. Proficient in formulating & implementing Network Planning & Optimization (NPO) strategies, in addition to conducting audits & directing parametric changes to achieve QA norms. Highly skilled in liaising with internal/external stakeholders to optimize network KPIs and deliver compelling business value to end-user & clients.

When to Use a Resume Profile

Resume Objective vs Resume Profile Summary

It is a common question whether to use an objective or a resume profile summary for your resume profile.

Professionals at Hiration say that a professional resume profile summary is almost always the best.

This is because an objective only shows your goal. Instead, you should share how you can fulfill the company's goal. That would work best by listing all your "achievements" that fit the job.

It is always best to clarify your doubts with a professional review of your resume.

Resume Profile: Objective

A resume profile objective on top of your work/educational profiles will give a bird’s-eye view of the applicant’s career trajectory till date.

A broad-level resume profile summary of key skills gathered in the course of the applicant’s career followed by selected achievement points should enumerate the impact you can deliver.

Resume Profile Summary

A resume profile summary is a short and powerful description of your skills and achievements, usually found at the top of your resume.

It spans 2-3 sentences and highlights the most important aspects in your profile. Think of it like how you would formally introduce yourself to a recruiter.

It is one of the best tools you can employ to get shortlisted for any job.

A resume profile summary is also called by various other names such as career summary, resume profile statement, resume profile summary, resume summary of qualifications, qualifications summary, etc.

Also Read: How to draft the perfect resume summary?

What to Put in Profile Section of Resume?

Be sure to include your job title and years of experience .

Try to be as crisp and direct in your resume profile as possible.

Your resume profile could be best optimized by focusing on the following areas:

• Relevant Certifications
• Initiatives Taken
• Problems Solved
• Metrics Improved
• Publications

To have a unique resume, start with a action word or power verb!

Also Read: What are the best resume action words and power verbs?

How to Write a Resume Profile?

A professional resume profile statement is written after your resume is complete.

Let us make it simpler for you. So, what are the steps you are going to follow?

First, complete your resume. Secondly, group your key points under buckets and furnish your Key Skills and Certifications .

Once your resume is complete, start writing your resume profile summary in the following steps:

• Include the number of years of experience
• Follow with your target job profile
• Highlight your most relevant achievements
• Showcase your skills which you are skilled at
• Begin your sentences with "Adept at", "Proficient in", etc.
• Tailor your sentences to your target job

Although it looks pretty easy, it is not when you are an entry level graduate or a career changer!

Let's consider the following resume profile example for a "QA Manager & Analyst", for a more comprehensive approach:

~10 years experienced Business/IT Analyst and Quality Management Expert adept at spearheading and training cross-functional teams to champion end-to-end project lifecycle from requirement analysis and testing to go-live and post production support. Proficient in executing projects encompassing process improvement, QA testing & defect tracking as part of conceptualizing and implementing cost-effective solutions to deliver compelling value to key stakeholders, end users & clients.

The first sentence in the resume profile resonates:

• The number of years of experience: ~10 years experienced
• Target job profile: "Business/IT Analyst" and "Quality Management Expert"
• Function skilled at: leading cross-functional teams
• Result achieved: champion end-to-end project lifecycle

Unlike other resume points, use full-stops in the profile section of resume.

The second sentence in the resume profile resonates:

• Functional skills implemented: executing projects encompassing process improvement, QA testing & defect tracking
• Achievements through skills: conceptualizing and implementing cost-effective solutions
• Value added: deliver compelling value to key stakeholders, end users & clients

In case you have a relevant certification, add it as a pretext to your profile.

For example, if you are a Project Manager with PMP certification, you may start your resume profile summary with "~12 years experienced PMP Certified Project Manager".

Entry-level Resume Profile

For entry level resume profiles, it is hard to list the resume achievements. You are new and unaware of the industry rules. But do not worry!

An entry-level resume should list the following points that match the job:

• Related tasks in unrelated jobs
• Volunteer work
• Short freelance tasks

If you do not have sufficient accomplishments, you can volunteer or freelance a few days to stand out.

Resume profile is the most important factor that decides whether your resume is worth pursuing or not. We suggest you use a tailor made one.

Resume Profile for Career Changers

For the career changers, it is difficult to mask the gap in your resume.

You should list the following points to stand out from the herd:

• Focus on transferable skill set .
• Choose the suitable layout which brings out the important job/achievement if the past.
• Stress on your achievements .
• If you have been learning/volunteering/freelancing during any gap in employment history, mention it.

Optimizing Your Resume Profile

The question of how to write a resume profile is not complete without knowing how to optimize it.

To stand out from the crowd, use our professional resume profile examples below.

They will help you tailor your resume and quantify your professional achievements.

This way, your first impression will be even more powerful and hiring managers will be all about you.

Custom Fit Your Profile Section

• Avoid putting any old achievements in the profile section of your resume.
• Pick out your best achievements and tailor it accordingly.

Quantify Accomplishments

A glance at your numbers in a resume brings out a quantifiable impact.Be sure to include as many metrics as you can.

The following resume profile examples showcase that you can easily insert:

• years of experience
• cost benefits
• numerical data
• time savings
• % process optimization

Resume Profile Examples for Top Professionals

Resume profile summary samples.

Resume professional profile examples.

Check out the following professional resume profile examples to create your own.

G.M - Strategic Sourcing & Supply Chain Management

A result oriented professional with 30+ Years of Rich Experience in the entire Spectrum of Manufacturing industry like Strategic Sourcing, supply chain Management, Operations, New Product development, Export Customer Management etc is looking for Senior Level Assignments

Senior Sales Professional

23+ years experienced, result-oriented & value-driven Senior Sales Professional with a track record of incubating & championing dynamic sales teams to formulate sales strategies & achieve cross-country targets. Adept at driving Business Growth in a wide range of industries with proven expertise in accelerating sales turnover in highly competitive & continuously evolving markets. Proficient in implementing Go-To-Market strategic plans around Market Segmentation & Competitor Evaluation. Demonstrated capability of liaising with key stakeholders to drive significant gains in profitability & deliver compelling business value to clients.

Technology Professional

19+ years experienced, value-driven, result-oriented & hands on Technology professional with a track record of incubating product/solution engineering teams & establishing Global Center of Excellence (COE) hubs. Proficient in conceptualizing & delivering complex & scalable enterprise/consumer solutions for early-stage ventures. Highly skilled in liaising with key IT & Business stakeholders for executing key project deliverables & developing enabling technologies to optimize business processes & accomplish strategic goals. Adept at combining an entrepreneurial drive with managerial expertise to integrate/optimize processes & deliver compelling business value to clients.

Senior Management Professional & Implementation Leader

15+ years experienced, value-driven & result-oriented Senior Management Professional & Implementation Leader with a track record of spearheading diverse teams for streamlining day-to-day operations by effectively incorporating & championing new products, services & technologies. Proficient in liaising with key internal/external stakeholders for conducting productive training sessions & customizing solutions for conglomerates. Adept at initiating automation & overseeing API Integration, in addition to directing process optimization initiatives for achieving compliance & delivering compelling business value for clients.

Business Leader & Project Head

33+ years experienced Business Leader & Project Head adept at championing organizational leadership to drive strategic deliverables and bottom-line across commercial food service equipment and consumer durables/electronics industries. Armed with a track record of formulating cost-effective strategies to penetrate new markets & expand distribution network. Deploying stellar negotiation & relationship building skills to secure favourable contracts & deliver compelling value to key stakeholders.

Senior Technical Services Professional

21+ years experienced, value-driven & result-oriented Senior Technical Services Professional with a track record of spearheading diverse teams to champion Clinical Applications of technical services across diverse domains. Adept at collaborating with external & internal stakeholders to process business requirements for conceptualizing & delivering technical solutions. Proficient in deploying Scientific Research & Analysis to scrutinize industry-based trends and initiate Technological & Professional Innovation. Armed with an extensive techno-managerial experience for executing mission-critical projects. Proven expertise in mentoring young professionals and providing them with hands-on training to enhance long-term organizational performance.

Principal Solutions Architect

18+ years experienced & value-driven Principal Solutions Architect with a track record of leading 100+ member teams to execute projects & strategize delivery of consumer-oriented solutions. Proficient in conceptualizing & designing mobile, web & front-end applications and administering Java Technologies & Cloud Infrastructure to champion user-centric Product Development. Highly skilled in employing Solution Architecture, Industry 4.0, IOT and cross-platforms like Android, Java/J2EE & Cloud system applications to spearhead next-generation customer engagements & deliver compelling business value to clients.

Project Management Professional & Certified ScrumMaster

~14 years experienced Project Management Professional & Certified ScrumMaster with a track record of spearheading teams to formulate strategies & effectively execute key deliverables in the IT domain spanning offshore & onsite projects across India and overseas. Adept at deploying Agile & Scrum methodologies to deliver improved systems, unmatched quality and stellar customer feedback. Proficient in deploying innovative technologies to conceptualize & deliver user-centric products. Highly skilled in incubating teams, optimizing processes & liaising with key stakeholders to deliver compelling business value to clients.

Front End Development Professional

4+ years experienced & result-oriented Front End Development Professional with expertise in advanced development methodologies for effectively executing key deliverables of mission-critical projects. Demonstrated ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions while methodically fulfilling client-specified parameters to prioritize quality, security and scalability.

System Administrator and Computer Network Consultant

8+ years experienced system administrator and computer network consultant skilled in managing data center and host systems, installation of systems, LAN, server administration, VMware installation, Wi-Fi/WLAN designing & installation and staff management. Highly skilled in managing both data center as well as computer host systems. Possesses hands on experience of performing daily server backups and periodic restoration. Proficient in implementing site to site VPN and setting up and managing LAN, WLAN, Wi-Fi systems. Adept in the administration of various technological tools such as Google suite, McAfee, Oracle VM, Google apps, Barracuda backup etc. In my current role as the System Administrator at Muscat Overseas Co. in Oman, I have been taking care of the complete system administration for the organization over the past 6 years. Keen to apply the acquired problem solving skills to a challenging role in a reputed organization.

DevOps Engineer

7+ years experienced & result oriented DevOps Engineer possessing in-depth experience of managing cloud based technology & effectively handling configuration & deployment of infrastructure & services. Gained hands on experience in implementing core DevOps concepts such as containerization, virtualization, version control, cloud computing, database management & administration, load balancing, etc. by using a wide variety of technologies while working with multiple DBMS, Operating Systems & programming languages. Adept at learning and implementing new technologies very swiftly as demonstrated by his transition from an Android Developer to a DevOps professional. Drives excellence in every project to deliver outstanding results.

Resume Objective Samples

A fresher's resume profile is highly endorsed by a professional

These resume profile examples shall guide you on how to write one on your own. Customize it and tailor your resume profile specific to your target job.

Data Analyst & Software Developer

Dynamic and detail-oriented Data Analyst & Software Developer adept at deploying analytical & database tools to scrutinize business operations. Proficient in employing effective data analysis techniques to ensure sound decision-making & optimize processes. Possesses a proven track record of leading teams & liaising with relevant stakeholders to successfully execute projects & deliver compelling business value to clients.

Entry Level Marketing Professional

Dynamic Management Professional armed with a practical approach for creative problem-solving & possessing a track record of liaising with key stakeholders to formulate & execute marketing strategies. Adept at deploying analytical tools to boost brand positioning & product marketing. A goal-seeking professional with an expertise in analyzing market trends to bolster customer acquisition & deliver compelling business value to clients.

Finance Graduate - Fresher

Dynamic and result-oriented Finance Graduate adept at deploying analytical & database tools to scrutinize business operations. Proficient in employing effective data analysis techniques to facilitate sound decision-making & successfully execute projects. An eager learner with excellent business communication skills & armed with the required skill set to be propelled to higher positions.

Software Developer

Enterprising Software Developer currently pursuing Integrated M.S. in Computer Science & armed with an expertise in engineering usercentric solutions for driving breakthrough efficiency. Adept at end-to-end SDLC as part of executing strategic projects and interpreting technical requirements for bolstering quality, security & scalability. Proficient in initiating automation to optimize processes & delivering compelling value to key stakeholders.

Marketing Professional

Data-driven Marketing Professional adept at formulating and implementing marketing strategies to effectively execute key project deliverables for measurably increasing brand awareness. Proficient in identifying and fostering long-lasting business relationships, in addition to conceptualizing initiatives for bolstering brand visibility in accordance with client requirements. Highly skilled in leading teams for organizing end-to-end PR events and programs in liaison with internal teams and external stakeholders. Adaptable and transformational leader with an ability to work independently, deliver effective presentations and convert opportunities to further accomplish organizational goals.

Graduate Pilot

Dynamic and result-oriented High School Graduate with passion and determination to become a world class pilot. Highly adept at working in both large and small teams to deliver stellar results. Effectively coordinates with all stakeholders to smoothly deliver projects. A goal-seeking individual with a comprehensive understanding of physics & armed with the required skillset to be propelled to higher positions. Seeking to leverage the acquired gamut of skills to bring value to an esteemed organisation as a commercial Pilot in the aviation industry.

Finance & Business Analytics Post-Graduate

Dynamic and result-oriented Finance & Business Analytics Post-Graduate armed with a practical approach for problem-solving and possessing a track record of accomplishing organizational goals to fruition. An organic team player with an ability to both lead teams for achieving business objectives and excel as a subordinate for gaining a profound understanding of new concepts and skills. Adept at deploying analytical & database tools to scrutinize business operations. A goal-seeking individual with a comprehensive understanding of taxation & financial principles and proficient in delivering compelling business value to clients.

You shall find customizable job-specific resume profile samples on Hiration's online resume builder .

Key Takeaway

The above guide shows you how to write a professional resume profile that stands out. To sum up:

• Pick your achievements according to the job profile
• Put your best accomplishments at the top
• Quantify all your achievements
• Tailor your resume profile to the target job
• Include instances of deploying expertise to achieve results
• Begin phrases with "Proficient in", "Adept at", etc.
• Read through resume profile examples for a more guided approach

Go to Hiration career platform which has 24/7 chat support and get professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

You can also write to us at [email protected] .

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How to Write a Resume Profile or Summary Statement

A resume summary or career profile is a brief statement at the top of your resume. If you are a career changer or have many years of experience, craft a powerful summary to highlight your accomplishments and skills.  Show the employer, at a glance, why you’re qualified for the job!

Resume Profile Guidelines 

General guidelines to keep in mind: 

• Keep your profile short. Two to five phrases written in a bulleted form or brief paragraph will do. Think of the summary as a snapshot of your skills,  accomplishments, and knowledge.
• Label your profile professionally: Summary of Qualifications, Career Profile, Career Highlights, Professional Summary, or just Summary or Profile. 
• Place your profile section at the top of your resume page, above your work history, so that the employer can see it when they first review your resume.

How To Create Your Profile

To choose what to highlight in your summary, research positions of interest and write a list of the common requirements and qualifications. 

Assess your skills and credentials. How does your background and experience align with the qualifications outlined in the job description? Select skills, experiences, special knowledge, and accomplishments that you want to highlight in your profile selection.

Next draft a few phrases that summarize your Skills/Experience/Accomplishments/Knowledge/Education

Now write a sentence describing your “professional role,” which you can use as the opening line in your profile. For example: 

• Accomplished Marketing Executive with over 10 year experience in…
• Fully knowledgeable in…
• Experience managing professional staff including…

Finally, put all of the sentences together and edit for a clean, concise, and compelling profile statement. 

Career Profile 

Successful professional with corporate marketing and training experience seeking position in nonprofit organization leveraging fundraising and program development skills. Recognized for ability to develop strong relationships and plan strategically. Strengths include: 

• Time Management
• Relationship Building
• Public Speaking

Highly skilled and results-oriented professional with solid academic preparation holding a Juris Doctor degree and extensive experience in intelligence and special operations seeks position in risk management. Proven ability to assess and manage complex obstacles; viewed as a strong troubleshooter. Successful in intense and demanding environments, providing decisive team leadership and structure with a track record of motivating and developing soldiers. Willing to relocate.

Publishing executive with multi-faceted background encompassing international licensing and brand management. Developed specialties in editorial planning, global marketing strategy, and design. Managed multiple projects simultaneously and efficiently by overseeing the daily operations of 17 magazine titles worldwide. Proven ability to develop strong relationships across cultures and to provide decisive team leadership in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Resources

We have many resources available to help you navigate career change and showcase your transferable skills.   

• For tips on resume structure and content read through Writing a Resume: Getting Started and Resumes with Impact: Creating Strong Bullet Points  
• For detailed instruction, view the webinars on Writing a Results Focused and Targeted Resume and How to Perfect Your Professional Narrative

Related Resources

Writing a Resume: Getting Started

If you’re applying for an internship or job, attending a networking event, or seeking a volunteer opportunity, chances are you’ll need a resume. We’ll walk you through the basics.

Resumes with Impact: Creating Strong Bullet Points

How can you make your resume stand out to an employer? This resource will help you learn how to use the STAR method to develop strong bullet points that highlight your skills and accomplishments relevant to a position.

How to Explain Employment Gaps

Learn tips to address employment gaps on your application materials and in interviews.

Privacy Policy Accessibility Notice of Non-Discrimination Terms of Use

• Career Blog

38 Professional Resume Profile Examples & Templates for 2024

A professional resume profile is a crucial aspect of any job application. It is the first impression that hiring managers have of a candidate and can greatly impact their decision to call the applicant for an interview or not.

The purpose of this article is to provide job seekers with 38 professional resume profile examples and templates to help them create a compelling, effective and tailored hiring document that will increase their chances of landing a job.

The article will cover various sections that are integral to creating a strong resume that adequately showcases the qualifications, skills, and experience of the applicant.

In section II, we will go over the importance of creating a professional resume profile and outline tips for crafting a profile that grabs the attention of hiring managers.

In section III, we will discuss the different types of resumes and explain when and how to use them. We will provide examples of resumes for different industries and levels of experience.

In section IV, we will delve deeper into the details of crafting an effective resume profile. We will cover how to tailor the profile to the job description, highlight key achievements, and showcase relevant skills and experience.

In section V, we will provide a range of professional resume profile examples and templates that job seekers can use as a guide when creating their own resumes. We will highlight the key elements of each profile and explain why they are effective.

By the end of this article, job seekers should have a clear understanding of what makes a professional resume successful and be equipped with the knowledge and tools to create their own standout profile.

Resume Profile Examples for Different Industries

As a job seeker, it is essential to understand the importance of tailoring your resume profile to the industry you are applying for. A strong resume profile reflects your skills and experiences relevant to the specific industry, catching the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.

Below are examples of profile summaries for various industries:

1. Human Resources

Dedicated and experienced HR professional with a proven track record of creating and enhancing HR policies and procedures. Skilled in employee relations, recruitment, training, and benefits administration. Adept at collaborating with management to improve company culture and foster a positive work environment.

2. Information Technology

Innovative IT professional with expertise in software development and project management. Strong programming skills in Java, Python, and SQL. Experienced in leading cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality technical solutions in deadline-driven environments.

3. Marketing

Strategic and results-driven marketer with a passion for social media and content creation. Experienced in developing and executing successful digital marketing campaigns, brand management, and market research. Skilled in analyzing data to optimize performance and increase ROI.

4. Healthcare

Compassionate healthcare professional with a focus on patient care and wellness. Experienced in clinical settings, facilitating care coordination, and maintaining patient records. Skilled in providing emotional support to patients and their families, ensuring their satisfaction and well-being.

Analytical and detail-oriented finance professional with a proven track record in financial modeling and forecasting. Experienced in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Skilled in analyzing financial statements and identifying areas for improvement to optimize profitability.

6. Education

Innovative and passionate educator with experience in curriculum development and student-centered learning. Strong classroom management and communication skills. Experienced in creating engaging lesson plans and facilitating student learning through differentiated instruction.

Results-driven sales professional with expertise in building strong client relationships and closing high-value deals. Experienced in sales strategy development, negotiations, and new business development. Skilled in analyzing sales data to identify trends and adjust sales strategies accordingly.

8. Engineering

Innovative engineer with expertise in design and development of complex systems. Skilled in problem-solving and analysis, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions. Experienced in project management and delivering projects on-time and within budget constraints.

9. Creative

Highly creative and versatile professional with a passion for graphic design, photography, and video production. Experienced in using the latest software and tools to create visually stunning content for clients across various industries. Skilled in managing production schedules and delivering projects on-time and within budget.

10. Customer Service

Customer-focused professional with expertise in managing calls and correspondence in a high-volume environment. Skilled in problem-solving and handling customer queries and complaints. Experienced in using customer service software and tools to ensure prompt and efficient resolution of issues.

Resume Profile Examples for Different Levels of Experience

If you are a job seeker looking for a specific level of experience, having a tailored profile summary can make a significant difference. It not only creates a good first impression, but it can also help recruiters and hiring managers understand your potential as a candidate. In this section, we will discuss how to write a profile summary based on your experience level, along with some examples.

A. How to tailor your profile summary based on your experience level

Entry-level.

As an entry-level candidate, you may have limited work experience, but you can showcase your skills and potential in your profile summary. Start with a brief introduction about yourself, including your degree or relevant coursework, and any internships or entry-level projects you have completed. Next, highlight your skills and accomplishments, such as your ability to work in a team, your strong attention to detail, and your eagerness to learn and grow.

If you have a few years of work experience, your profile summary should focus on your achievements and leadership skills. Start with a brief summary of your experience, highlighting your responsibilities and accomplishments in each role. Follow this with a list of your relevant skills, such as project management, communication, and team leadership. Finally, discuss your professional goals and what drives you to succeed.

Senior-level

As a seasoned professional, your profile summary should demonstrate your extensive experience and expertise. Start with a brief summary of your career, highlighting your accomplishments as well as your awards and recognition. Focus on your leadership and managerial skills, including the size and scope of teams you have managed. Finally, mention any relevant certifications or advanced degrees, along with your future career goals.

B. Examples of profile summaries for various experience levels

“Recent college graduate with a degree in marketing and internship experience in social media marketing. Proficient in various digital marketing tools, including Google Analytics and Hootsuite. Eager to utilize my creative problem-solving skills and passion for marketing to drive growth and success for your brand.”

“Experienced marketing professional with over five years of experience in leading successful marketing campaigns. Skilled in project management, analytical thinking, and team leadership. Passionate about advancing my career and driving growth for the company through innovative marketing strategies.”

“Accomplished senior marketing executive with over 15 years of experience leading and managing high-performing teams. Proven success in expanding business operations and driving revenue growth. Certified in various marketing tools and techniques, including inbound marketing and brand management. Looking to utilize my experience and expertise to drive success for your organization.”

Resume Profile Examples for Different Career Objectives

A strong objective statement is an important component of any resume profile. It should be concise, clear and accurately represent your career goals. A strong objective statement can help you stand out from other candidates and make a positive impression on potential employers.

Below are some examples of profile summaries for different career objectives:

1. Career Change

Objective: To leverage my transferable skills and experience to transition into a new industry or role.

Profile Summary: Accomplished professional with a track record of success in [current industry/role]. Seeking to apply my [transferable skill 1], [transferable skill 2], and [transferable skill 3] to a new industry or role in [new industry/role]. Proven ability to learn quickly, adapt to new challenges, and excel in a dynamic work environment.

2. Returning to Work after a Gap

Objective: To re-enter the workforce and apply my skills and experience to a meaningful role.

Profile Summary: Experienced professional with a background in [previous industry/role]. Seeking to re-enter the workforce after a [length of gap] gap. Highly motivated, detail-oriented, and dedicated to producing high-quality work. Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and projects, work independently, and collaborate effectively with others.

3. Freelance or Consulting

Objective: To provide high-quality freelance or consulting services to clients in [industry/field].

Profile Summary: Results-oriented professional with [number of years] years of experience in [industry/field]. Seeking to leverage my expertise in [specific skill or service] to provide high-quality freelance or consulting services to clients. Skilled in [related skill 1], [related skill 2], and [related skill 3]. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to build and maintain positive relationships with clients.

Key Skills and Achievements Examples

When crafting your resume profile, it’s important to highlight your relevant key skills and achievements. This section should showcase your top accomplishments and how they demonstrate your capabilities.

A. Highlighting your key skills and accomplishments

To effectively highlight your achievements and skills, consider the following tips:

• Identify your most impressive accomplishments and tailor them to the job you’re applying for.
• Be specific and quantify your achievements using numbers, percentages, or dollar amounts.
• Use strong action verbs to describe your accomplishments, such as “initiated,” “streamlined,” or “optimized.”
• Focus on skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for and demonstrate your ability to excel in that role.

B. Examples of profile summaries with key achievements and skills

Here are some examples of profile summaries that effectively highlight key achievements and skills:

1. Experienced Marketing Manager

Achievements:

• Increased website traffic by 50% through SEO optimization and content marketing campaigns
• Boosted sales revenue by $2 million within one quarter through targeted email marketing campaigns
• Led successful rebranding efforts resulting in increased brand recognition and a 20% increase in customer engagement
• Marketing strategy development
• Data analysis and reporting
• Budget management
• Team leadership and collaboration

2. Results-Driven Sales Executive

• Consistently exceeded quarterly sales goals by an average of 25% for the past 3 years
• Negotiated deals with major Fortune 500 companies resulting in a $5 million increase in annual revenue
• Developed and implemented a successful sales training program that increased team productivity by 35%
• Sales strategy development
• Relationship building and networking
• Contract negotiation
• Coaching and mentorship

By highlighting your key achievements and skills in your resume profile summary, you can demonstrate your value as a candidate and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

How to Write a Professional Resume Profile

When it comes to writing a professional resume profile, it’s important to make sure that you’re effectively showcasing your skills, experience, and achievements in a concise and compelling way. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

A. Tips for writing an effective resume profile

• Tailor your profile to the specific job you’re applying for. Make sure that you’re highlighting skills and achievements that align with the job requirements.
• Use strong, action-oriented language to convey your capabilities. Avoid overly general statements that don’t provide specific examples of what you’ve accomplished.
• Quantify your achievements wherever possible. Numbers help to demonstrate the impact you’ve had in your previous roles.
• Keep your profile brief, ideally no more than 2-3 sentences. Your profile is meant to be a quick snapshot of your qualifications, not a comprehensive list of your entire career history.

B. Common mistakes to avoid

• Don’t simply list out your job duties. Your profile should highlight what you’ve achieved in each role, not just what you were responsible for.
• Avoid using buzzwords and generic terms like “team player” or “detail-oriented.” These phrases don’t provide much insight into your actual capabilities.
• Don’t make your profile too long or too short. You want to provide enough detail to entice the reader to keep reading, but not so much that you overwhelm them.

C. Step-by-step guide to crafting your profile summary

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to writing your profile summary, follow these steps:

• Begin with a sentence that summarizes your professional background and experience.
• Choose 2-3 key skills or areas of expertise that you want to highlight.
• For each skill or area of expertise, include a specific achievement or accomplishment that demonstrates your capabilities.
• Edit your summary down to no more than 2-3 sentences.

By following these steps, you can create a compelling and effective resume profile that will help you stand out to potential employers.

Resume Profile Templates

When it comes to crafting a professional resume, a great resume profile is key to catching the attention of recruiters and potential employers. A resume profile is a concise summary of your professional background, skills, and experiences. It is often the first thing that hiring managers read when reviewing a candidate’s application. That’s why it’s important to make sure your profile stands out and highlights your unique strengths.

Using a resume profile template can help streamline the writing process and ensure that your profile hits all the right notes. Here are some of the benefits of using a resume profile template:

A. The benefits of using a resume profile template

1. saves time and effort.

Creating a profile from scratch can be a time-consuming process. By using a template, you can save hours of brainstorming and formatting. Templates are designed to help you organize your ideas and present them in a clear and concise manner.

2. Ensures completeness

A well-crafted profile should include all the relevant information that a recruiter needs to make an informed decision. A template can help you ensure that you cover all the essential points and don’t forget any important details.

3. Provides structure and consistency

Using a template helps you create a consistent look and feel across all your job applications. A structured profile with clear headings and bullet points is easier to read and more visually appealing than a wall of text.

4. Customizable to your needs

Templates come in a variety of formats and designs. You can choose the one that best fits your personal style and the requirements of the job you’re applying for. You can also customize the language and tone to match your personal brand.

B. Examples of profile templates for different industries and experience levels

Here are some examples of profile templates for different industries and experience levels:

1. Entry-level profile template

As an entry-level candidate, your focus should be on highlighting your education, internships, and extracurricular activities. Here’s an example of an entry-level profile template:

2. Experienced professional profile template

For experienced professionals, your profile should emphasize your accomplishments and leadership abilities. Here’s an example of a profile template for experienced professionals:

3. Templates for different industries

Different industries have different requirements and expectations.

Resume Profile Examples for Specific Job Roles

When it comes to creating a professional resume, having a strong profile summary can make all the difference in catching the eye of potential employers. Here are some examples of tailored profile summaries for specific job roles:

A. Examples of Profile Summaries Tailored to Specific Job Roles

1. project manager.

Experienced Project Manager with a demonstrated history of successful project completion. Skilled in project planning, budgeting, and team management. Proficient in the use of project management software and tools. Ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

2. Data Analyst

Data Analyst with expertise in data visualization and analysis. Proficient in various data analysis tools and methods, including data mining, statistical analysis, and machine learning. Proven track record of providing data-driven insights to support business decision-making. Strong communication skills and ability to present complex data analysis in a clear and concise manner.

3. Business Development Manager

Results-oriented Business Development Manager with extensive experience in identifying new business opportunities and developing strategic partnerships. Proven ability to develop and implement effective sales strategies that increase revenue and drive growth. Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.

4. Executive Assistant

Organized and detail-oriented Executive Assistant with exceptional administrative and organizational skills. Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with experience working with a diverse range of people. Proficient in various productivity software and tools.

5. Graphic Designer

Creative and talented Graphic Designer with a passion for visual storytelling. Proficient in using Adobe Creative Suite and other design tools to create eye-catching designs. Ability to work independently or collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Demonstrated ability to meet tight deadlines and produce high-quality output.

6. Software Developer

Experienced Software Developer with a strong background in developing and maintaining complex software systems. Proficient in various programming languages and development tools, including Java, Python, and Node.js. Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Proven ability to deliver high-quality software products that meet business needs.

7. Operations Manager

Results-driven Operations Manager with extensive experience in managing complex operations and supply chains. Skilled in developing and implementing operational strategies that improve efficiency and reduce costs. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive business performance. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

8. Digital Marketing Manager

Highly skilled Digital Marketing Manager with expertise in developing and implementing digital marketing campaigns that drive traffic, engagement, and conversions. Proficient in various digital marketing tools and methods, including SEO, PPC, social media, and email marketing. Proven ability to analyze campaign performance and optimize for maximum results. Strong communication and project management skills.

Having a tailored profile summary can greatly improve your chances of standing out to potential employers.

Resume Profile Examples with Metrics and Numbers

A. importance of using metrics and numbers in your resume profile.

As a job seeker, your resume profile serves as your introduction to potential employers. This brief summary at the top of your resume should capture the readers’ attention, portray your skills and experience, and set you apart from the other candidates. Using metrics and numbers in your resume profile is an effective way to accomplish all of these goals.

By using specific numbers and measurable achievements in your resume profile, you demonstrate your accomplishments and value as an employee. This helps employers better understand your abilities and quantifiable impact on previous companies or projects. Additionally, metrics and numbers help provide context for the skills and experience listed in your resume, reinforcing your credibility and expertise.

B. Examples of profile summaries with measurable achievements

To give you an idea of how to use metrics and numbers in your resume profile, here are some examples:

Digital Marketing Manager:

• Increased website traffic by 75% through SEO strategies and social media campaigns
• Boosted organic lead generation by 50% through targeted email marketing efforts
• Successfully managed a $2 million annual digital advertising budget

Sales Representative:

• Consistently exceeded quarterly sales quotas by an average of 20%
• Generated over $1 million in new business revenue within the first year on the job
• Increased customer retention by 15% through proactive follow-up and exceptional customer service

Financial Analyst:

• Created detailed financial forecasts that enabled the company to secure $5 million in funding
• Identified cost-saving opportunities that resulted in over $250,000 in annual savings
• Developed and implemented a new financial reporting system that reduced monthly reporting time by 25%.

These examples showcase the importance of including measurable achievements in your resume profile. By including specific numbers and metrics, you demonstrate your value and success as an employee in a concrete and quantifiable way.

Common Questions and Answers About Resume Profiles

A. frequently asked questions about resume profiles.

Q: What is a resume profile?

A: A resume profile is a brief summary of your skills, qualifications, and achievements that helps you stand out to potential employers. It’s typically placed at the top of your resume and acts as an introduction to who you are as a professional.

Q: What should be included in a resume profile?

A: Your resume profile should include your professional title, relevant skills and experience, and a brief overview of your career goals. It should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for and emphasize your unique strengths.

Q: How long should a resume profile be?

A: A resume profile should be brief and to the point, typically no more than 3-4 sentences or a few bullet points. It should be concise but powerful, highlighting your most relevant qualifications and achievements.

Q: Is a resume profile necessary?

A: While a resume profile isn’t necessary, it can be a great way to differentiate yourself from other applicants and make a strong first impression. It allows you to highlight your most relevant skills and achievements without including too much unnecessary information.

B. Expert Answers

Crafting a powerful resume profile is essential for making a great first impression on potential employers. Here are some expert tips to help you create an effective resume profile:

1. Tailor your profile to the job you’re applying for.  Your resume profile should be specific to the job you’re applying for and demonstrate why you’re a great fit for that particular role.

2. Use action verbs and keywords.  Using strong, active language and relevant keywords can help your profile stand out and show off your skills and achievements.

3. Quantify your achievements.  Including specific numbers and metrics to showcase your achievements can help demonstrate your value to potential employers.

4. Keep it concise.  Your resume profile should be brief and to the point, highlighting your most relevant skills and qualifications without including unnecessary information.

5. Edit and revise.  Make sure to carefully proofread and edit your resume profile to ensure that it’s accurate, concise, and grammatically correct. Consider asking a colleague or mentor for feedback to ensure that your profile is as strong as possible.

A well-crafted resume profile can be a powerful tool for standing out to potential employers and highlighting your unique qualifications and achievements. By tailoring your profile to the specific job you’re applying for, using strong language and metrics to showcase your skills, and carefully editing and revising, you can create an effective and impactful resume profile that helps you land the job.

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27 Great Resume Summary Examples to Get Hired

20 min read · Updated on August 28, 2024

Your resume summary is the first impression you make on potential employers, so it's crucial to get it right

When it comes to job applications, your resume is often the first point of contact with prospective employers. It's essential to make a good impression right from the start, and that's where your resume summary comes in. 

What is a resume summary? 

How can you create one that will help your resume stand out from the competition?

In this article, we'll explain the resume summary and why it's so vital for job search success. We'll also teach you how to write a great resume summary that will grab any employer's attention and provide 27 fantastic resume summary examples that you can customize to fit your job search needs.

What is a resume summary?

To understand a resume summary, it's important to understand the challenge that good summaries are designed to overcome. Employers who are looking for new hires often need to compare many dozens or even hundreds of resumes to find the best candidates for the job. Few hiring personnel have the time needed to thoroughly examine every single resume that they receive.

Instead, employers typically spend no more than five or six seconds scanning any given resume. If a resume manages to capture their interest in those few seconds, they'll take the time to read it in greater detail. 

However, if your resume doesn't grab their attention, it's likely to be rejected without any further examination. So, the challenge is to find a way to quickly earn the reader's interest and inspire them to read the rest of the document.

That's where a professional summary for a resume comes into play. As you'll see from our resume summary examples, a good summary is the resume equivalent of a salesperson's elevator pitch. 

This brief statement should highlight your experience and job title, one or two key skills, and a couple of your most prominent achievements. When your summary is crafted well, it will provide the employer with a quick overview of your potential value as a new hire.

Once you've written your summary, you should place it right after your contact information and resume headline so that it's the first thing employers see. If you've done your job properly, that summary will be compelling enough to make the reader want to learn more about the type of value you can bring to the job.

How should you start a resume summary?

Since your summary is designed to capture the reader's attention, it's vital to start this paragraph off in a compelling way.  While the statement should be brief, it should also clearly communicate your unique value proposition. Here are some examples of strong opening statements:

Innovative Marketing Manager with over five years of experience in developing and executing successful campaigns for Fortune 500 companies

Results-driven Sales Executive with a proven track record of exceeding revenue targets and building strong client relationships

Skilled Customer Service Representative with expertise in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and communication

Tips for writing a resume summary

To make sure that you create the most powerful resume summary possible, follow our top tips:

Be specific

When writing a resume summary, it's essential to be specific and quantify your achievements wherever possible. Instead of saying, "Experienced marketing professional," try saying, "Experienced marketing professional with expertise in managing successful social media campaigns, resulting in increases of up to 30% in website traffic."

This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

Reflect on your career

When it comes to writing a strong resume summary, you should engage in some self-reflection. Before putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), take some time to think about your key skills, experiences, and achievements. This will help you identify the most important information to include in your summary. Review your past roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments, and think about how they relate to the job you're applying for. Ask yourself:

What have I achieved in my career?

What skills have I developed?

What makes me stand out from other applicants?

Identify your key skills

One of the most important things to include in your resume summary is your key skills. These are the abilities that set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your value to potential employers. Begin by making a list of your top skills, then prioritize them based on relevance to the job you're applying for.

Highlight your relevant experiences

Next, think about relevant experiences that you can include in your summary. This includes any previous jobs or internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that have given you valuable experience. Consider what you've learned and achieved in each role and how that relates to the job you're applying for.

You should focus on what is most relevant to your target job. Here are some examples:

Proven ability to increase sales revenue by 20% year-over-year

Expertise in project management and team leadership

Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365

Confident working with a diverse range of clients and stakeholders

Keep it concise

Remember, your resume summary should be concise and to the point. Stick to the most important information and avoid filler words or irrelevant details. A good rule of thumb is to keep your summary to 3-5 sentences.

Use action verbs

When describing your experiences and achievements, use strong action verbs and adverbs to convey a sense of accomplishment and momentum. For example, instead of saying, "Responsible for managing social media accounts," say, "Successfully manage 4 social media accounts, including Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Instagram."

Quantify your achievements

Wherever possible, use numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements. This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers. For example, instead of saying, "Helped to increase sales," say, "Helped to increase sales by 20% in the first year."

Tailor it to the job

Make sure your resume's professional summary is tailored to the job you're seeking. This means highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Look at the job description identify the key requirements, and then make sure your summary addresses these points.

Professional resume summary examples

Since there's nothing quite like seeing an example of a great summary, we've compiled twenty-seven great resume summary examples that you can use as inspirational templates for your own perfect resume . Below, you'll find summary examples for a variety of different job roles, including:

Customer Service Representative

Sales Representative

Marketing Manager

Project Manager

Software Developer

Human Resources Manager

Graphic Designer

Registered Nurse

Financial Analyst

Administrative Assistant

Data Entry Clerk  

Business Analyst

Operations Manager  

Mental Health Counselor

High School Teacher

Event Manager

Product Designer

Content Marketer

SEO Specialist

Bank Teller

Software Support Specialist

Data Scientist

Dental Assistant

1.    Customer Service Representative resume summary example

"Highly motivated Customer Service Representative with 5 years of experience in delivering service excellence. Skilled in conflict resolution and problem-solving, resulting in a 95% customer satisfaction rate. Proven ability to multitask in fast-paced environments while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience and skills while also showcasing their relevant achievements in ensuring customer satisfaction. It mentions how much experience they have and highlights a measurable success.

2.    Sales Representative resume summary example

"Dynamic Sales Representative with a track record of exceeding sales quotas by 20%+. Proficient in consultative sales techniques and relationship building. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills with the ability to close deals."

Why it works : This summary provides a quantifiable achievement to show the candidate's success in their previous sales roles while also highlighting their key skills in relationship building and communication.

3.    Marketing Manager resume summary example

"Strategic Marketing Manager with 7+ years of experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns across multiple channels. Skilled in market research and analysis, campaign optimization, and team leadership. Proven track record of driving revenue growth and increasing brand awareness."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's experience and leadership skills while also showcasing their ability to drive results through successful marketing campaigns. The candidate has also demonstrated their ability to grow revenues and raise brand awareness.

4.    Project Manager resume summary example

"Accomplished Project Manager, with confidence in leading cross-functional teams and managing project timelines, budgets, and resources. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's extensive project management experience and emphasizes their ability to successfully deliver projects while working with multiple stakeholders.

5.   Software Developer resume summary example

"Innovative Software Developer with 5+ years of experience in designing, developing, and implementing complex software applications. Skilled in programming languages including Java, Python, and C++. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in Agile environments to deliver high-quality code on time."

Why it works : This job seeker has taken the time to highlight some of the technical skills they possess while emphasizing their ability to work in Agile environments. They also call attention to the fact that they can manage and complete a software development project from design to implementation.

6.    Human Resources Manager resume summary example

"Experienced Human Resources Manager specializing in talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management. Skilled in developing and implementing HR policies and procedures that align with business objectives and values. Proven track record of building and managing high-performing teams."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience in various HR functions and emphasizes their ability to build and manage teams. It also shows that they can perform managerial functions like developing policies and procedures.

7.    Graphic Designer resume summary example

"Creative Graphic Designer with particular expertise in developing and executing visually stunning designs for print and digital media. Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud, with a focus on typography and layout. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously."

Why it works : This summary works well because it showcases their technical skills and experience while also emphasizing creativity and an ability to work collaboratively.

8.    Registered Nurse resume summary example

"Compassionate Registered Nurse with over 10 years' experience in providing high-quality patient care. Skilled at patient assessment, medication administration, and treatment plan development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with patients and their families."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's clinical and patient care experience and highlights their key nursing and interpersonal skills.

9.   Financial Analyst resume summary example

“Detail-oriented Financial Analyst with a strong background in financial modeling, data analysis, and forecasting. Combines advanced Excel skills with the ability to create and manage financial reports. Able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.”

Why it works : This summary showcases the applicant's specific skills and experience in financial analysis and highlights their proficiency in Excel, a crucial tool for the role.

10.   Administrative Assistant resume summary example

“Skilled Administrative Assistant with 8 years of experience in administrative support and office administration. Resilient, detail-oriented, and able to work under extreme pressure in a team environment. Excellent interpersonal, client management, and interdepartmental liaison skills. Committed to successful management of multiple simultaneous projects, strict adherence to deadline requirements, and accurate maintenance of schedules, meeting obligations, and records.”

Why it works : An Administrative Assistant wears many hats and experiences many challenges. This resume summary covers a lot of ground to demonstrate that the candidate understands those obstacles and knows how to overcome them.

11.   Data Entry Clerk resume summary example

“Task-driven and results-oriented professional with more than 10 years of experience in data entry, project coordination, and customer service. Uses interpersonal skills including effective communication to build rapport and positive relations with customers, gather vital information, and ensure rapid and accurate entry of data into designated software programs.”

Why it works : This resume summary is effective because it gets right to the heart of the job: dealing with customers and entering data into databases. The candidate also emphasizes their results-focused mindset, project skills, and key soft skills.

12.   Business Analyst resume summary example

“Results-driven Business Analyst with a proven record in expanding profitability by 55% in the retail industry.  Confident carrying out data-focused analysis that provides key insights and recommendations for growth strategies. Strong interpersonal and team building skills, innovative approach to problem-solving , and resolute commitment to efficiency and productivity.”

Why it works : Business analysis is all about using data and research to deliver key insights that result in improved operations and greater business success. This summary hits all the right notes as it focuses on key skills, a solutions-oriented mindset, and notable achievements that reflect real value for employers.

13.   Operations Manager resume summary example

“Results-oriented Operations Manager with more than 10 years of supervisory experience in high-level operational environments. Adept at coordinating both large and small teams, outside consultants, and mid-level management personnel. Successfully introduced Lean manufacturing principles that reduced costs by 32% via waste elimination and process revitalization.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary emphasizes key skills that the employer wants to see in any managerial candidate's resume while also showcasing their knowledge of best operational practices and a commitment to cost reduction.

14.   Mental Health Counselor resume summary example

“Compassionate Mental Health Counselor with more than a decade of experience addressing mental health issues and behavioral concerns. Proven success in both individual and group counseling environments, assisting clients in gaining insight and understanding of their unique conditions. Specialized focus on working with young adults and families, with an emphasis on addressing substance abuse root causes and other social factors involved in mental health.”

Why it works : This resume summary is notable for citing important skills like empathy and compassion. It also focuses attention on the candidate's experience in dealing with common mental health concerns and hints at their preferred approach to assisting patients.

15.    High School Teacher resume summary example

“Dynamic high school teacher with 12 years of experience developing approved curricula for more than 500 students in grades 9-12. Proven track record of helping students to achieve a 98% passing rate in both Western Civilization and World History instruction. Actively engaged in every aspect of education, at the district, local, and parent-teacher level.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary highlights their vast experience while illustrating their success in ensuring that their students learn what they need to know to pass the class. They also demonstrate their commitment to the educational process by highlighting their involvement in every area of education.

16.    Accountant resume summary example

“Diligent and detail-oriented CPA with seven years of experience in accounting, process improvement, and problem-solving. Skilled at identifying inefficiencies and using reporting to offer insights that can guide employers to better practices and greater profitability. At XYZ Corp., identified labor usage inefficiency that motivated management to introduce new scheduling that eliminated $300,000 in labor waste.”

Why it works : In addition to highlighting a wide range of valuable skills, this candidate also focused on a quantifiable achievement that illustrates real value. This type of summary would certainly capture a hiring manager's attention and make them want to read more!

17.    Event Manager resume summary example

“Resilient and creative Event Manager with 6 years of corporate experience. Detail-oriented perfectionist with experience in project management, team leadership, and customer relations. Successfully organized and executed more than 40 major business conferences, hosting thousands of guests. Major clients have included three Fortune 500 firms with multi-million-dollar event budgets.

Why it works : As Event Managers go, this one has certainly made the rounds. That summary of achievements highlights their ability to manage even large-scale events, dealing with every aspect of the project. How could a serious hiring manager not want to learn more about this candidate?

18.    IT Manager resume summary example

“Dedicated IT Manager with significant experience in an innovative and growing tech firm. Skilled leader with experience in systems analysis, database architecture, problem-solving, and troubleshooting. Superior client satisfaction rate of more than 99%. Created and implemented an IT troubleshooting process that reduced internal client service time by 30%.”

Why it works : This IT professional focuses attention on their key leadership skills , while also mentioning the hard skills that any hiring manager is likely to be looking for. There's also a nice nod to their history of satisfying clients, as well as a notable and measurable achievement.

19.   Product Designer resume summary example

“Innovative Design Engineer with 5 years of experience in the development of products and packages. Skilled in market research, brand development and alignment, and design elements. Led team of seventeen Designers in the creation of industrial products that yielded $20 million in sales in the first month after launch.”

Why it works : This resume summary uses some important keywords, action verbs, and descriptive language to describe the candidate's key skills and experiences. It also cites an impressive product design achievement, along with real numbers that showcase value.

20.    Content Marketer resume summary example

“Creative marketing professional with 7 years' experience as a Content Marketer. Skilled writer who understands how written communication empowers business growth and expansion. Expertise in development of compelling content that drives activities across multiple media channels. Adaptable , detail-oriented, and focused on a brand-building approach to content strategy that drives real results. Developed a cross-platform content strategy that boosted sales conversion rates by 37%.

Why it works : This Content Marketer focuses on their key skills and keen insights into how content impacts business profitability. They even included a measurable result that demonstrates their focus on adding value to their employer's bottom line.

21.   SEO Specialist resume summary example

“Results-focused SEO expert with 6 years of experience in keyword mastery, the promotion of sustainable content, and growing organic website search engine rankings. Proven track record of SEO success, using content development and link outreach to expand website traffic activity from 10,000 daily visitors to more than 2,000,000 per year.”

Why it works : Many hiring managers may not fully understand SEO, but they will understand the need to get more eyes on their digital content. This candidate speaks to that need by focusing on website rankings, content, and overall web traffic - while including a quantifiable achievement that demonstrates their ability to make things happen.

22.   Copywriter resume summary example

“Website Copywriter with 5 years of experience in developing content that creates real conversions. Cross-channel expertise, including website content, advertising, newsletters, press releases, email, and podcast/video scripts. Proven track record of increasing social traffic by 36% and driving a 22% boost in landing page conversions.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary is focused not only on the type of things they write but how those content pieces directly contribute to the company's online presence and sales conversion rate. This illustrates the writer's understanding of how their work aligns with their employer's business needs and goals.

23.  Bank Teller resume summary example

“Empathetic and personable Bank Teller with more than 4 years of experience in client interactions at First Bank. Detail-oriented customer management approach, focused on superior customer experiences and client retention. Strict adherence to bank policy, including safety deposit guidelines, customer account security, and due diligence. Efficiently and effectively processed more than 200 client account interactions each day.”

Why it works : For a Bank Teller, much of the role's value lies in the employee's ability to serve as the face of the branch. This summary is effective because it showcases the Teller's knowledge of bank procedures while also highlighting their commitment to creating an excellent customer experience.

24.  Software Support Specialist resume summary example

“Problem-solving Software Support Specialist with 8 years of experience in customer-facing user assistance. Provided key problem-resolution services for hundreds of customers, with a focus on maximizing their satisfaction with the company to increase loyalty and retention. Experienced in both customer and B2B interactions, with a specialized talent for explaining technical problems in language that is easily understood by the average layperson.”

Why it works : This resume summary focuses not only on the candidate's specialized skills in solving computer issues but also highlights their ability to simplify their explanations to customers.

25.   Data Scientist resume summary example

“Committed Data Scientist focused on analytical insights that can drive company growth and development. More than eight years of experience providing data-driven analysis to Fortune 500 executives based on comprehensive statistical models and detailed historical data patterns. Successfully provided insights and recommendations used to increase company profits by 32% over a two-year period.”

Why it works : Data science may not seem like the most exciting field, but hiring managers are always on the hunt for candidates who understand why data matters. This candidate's focus on providing insights that can translate into real value for the employer is something that is likely to earn a hiring manager's interest.

26.  Dental Assistant resume summary example

“Dental Assistant with 5 years of experience with patient preparation, processing, and administrative support. Keen attention to detail and a commitment to dental health and aesthetics. Skilled in dental impressions, hands-on assistance during procedures, x-rays, and record maintenance. Fully committed to developing rapport with patients that creates a welcoming environment and a joyful experience.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary not only highlights key Dental Assistant requirements, but also conveys their personal approach to teamwork and patient care.

27.  Architect resume summary example

“Creative Architect experienced in high-end architectural design and development oversight. Ten years of proven success in creating sustainable designs that earn rave reviews and commendations from clients. Skilled in adapting to new challenges and working under pressure to achieve every client's vision. Consistently produces designs and project plans that come in on time and under budget, at 10%-30% less cost than industry competitors.”

Why it works : In this summary, the candidate highlights key skills that employers will want to see, while also emphasizing quantifiable results that demonstrate competitive value for the employer. They also showcase their ability to not only design architectural structures but to do so with a conscious awareness of critical factors like budgetary concerns, deadlines, sustainability and market competition.

Bonus: how to write a resume summary if you have no experience

Of course, it's also important to know how to write a resume summary if you have no experience. Here's a quick resume summary example that you can adapt if you are just entering the job market:

“Recent Marketing graduate, seeking an entry-level position to kickstart a career in the field. Demonstrated strong leadership and teamwork skills gained through involvement in various extracurricular activities, including volunteering at local events and leading group projects. Proficient in Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud. Passionate about using marketing strategies to create engaging content and drive brand awareness.”

Why it works: This summary works because it highlights the candidate's relevant hard and soft skills and qualifications, even though they don't have direct career experience. The use of action words such as "demonstrated" and "proficient" shows the candidate's confidence in their abilities, which can be attractive to potential employers, showcasing the candidate's potential for success in an entry-level marketing role.

Key takeaways

A well-written resume summary can make a significant impact on a job application. A good summary should highlight relevant skills and experiences, use clear and concise language, and avoid unnecessary information. Feel free to customize any of the resume summary examples we've provided to help ensure that your resume captures the attention of potential employers.

We know it can be difficult to condense a whole career full of skills and achievements into a paragraph of only a few sentences. If you're unsure about the document you've crafted, why not send it for a free resume review by our team of expert resume writers? 

This article was originally written by Ken Chase. It has been updated by Marsha Hebert and Ken Chase.

Recommended reading:

Ask Amanda: How Are a Resume Objective and a Resume Summary Different?

How to Write a Standout Career Summary

Business Acumen: What It Is and How You Can Showcase It On Your Resume

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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Resume Skills: How to Write a Skills Section in 2024? [+Examples]

No matter the job and no matter the experience level, skills are essential to a resume.

So much so, that amongst recruiters there's a new saying brewing — “ the future is skill-based ”.

And it makes sense, as mundane jobs get automated, those with a strong skill-set are able to shift focus and remain relevant in a fast-evolving job environment.

In this article, we'll not only show you how to write a skills section for your resume but also show you the differences between soft and hard skills and when to apply them. Moreover, you'll also learn some of the most sought-after skills by recruiters in today’s job market.

TL;DR Video Guide: How to List Skills on a Resume

Learn to write a great skills section for your resume in under 60 seconds. Watch our quick video guide, save time, and skip straight to the most important takeaways. 

What is considered a skill?

In broad terms, a skill is an ability to perform certain tasks well. Some skills can be measured and acquired through deliberate effort, while other are related to your personality traits.

In other words, not all skills are created equal. That’s why we call some of them “hard” and others “soft”.

• Hard skills . These are the skills that you’ve acquired through deliberate effort. They can be learned, taught, and measured. Examples of hard skills include: English, Spanish, HTML, Python, copywriting, data analysis, SEO, SEM, and others.
• Soft skills , on the other hand, are closely tied to one’s personality traits. They arise from your previous experiences and the environment you grew up in. These could be your leadership, communication, or other interpersonal skills . As opposed to hard skills, soft skills cannot be easily taught. Examples of soft skills include: problem-solving, negotiating, multitasking, time management, presenting, and others.

Both types of skills are highly valued by employers and have an important role to play in your job search.

You can think of your hard skills as a foundation upon which your entire application is built. They give you a fighting chance to score the job you want.

Your soft skills, on the other hand, are something extra that can make your application stand out. They give you an edge over other equally capable candidates.

Why do I need a skills section on my resume?

A well-put-together skills section can help a recruiter figure out whether you have what it takes for the job — and do it quickly . Speed is of the essence here.

Why? Because most recruiters only have about six seconds to decide whether a resume is worth reading in full. That means you only have a very limited time to get the most important, most impressive points across. Otherwise, your resume ends up in the bin.

With that in mind, having an entire section designated to your skills makes a lot of sense. After all, it’s through your skills that you can be useful to a company. By devoting an entire section to them you help the employer quickly assess if you can bring something to the table.

Get through the applicant tracking system (ATS)

What’s more, your resume isn’t for human eyes only. Every larger company nowadays uses an applicant tracking system (ATS) to weed out weak candidates. Because of that, most resumes never get to a human reader.

Fortunately, your resume’s skills section can help you punch through the ATS wall.

How? One way an ATS flags a resume for closer (human) review is by scanning it for relevant keywords. Luckily, by definition, any good skills section contains a relatively large number of these keywords and can help you get invited for a job interview .

As you can see there are also resume qualifications and a well-constructed skills section will help you make your resume more attractive both to human and computer eyes.

Finally, you should know that a large majority of your skills should already be shown in the work experience section of your resume. In other words, the skills section will always be a bit redundant. Don’t worry about that. For the reasons described above, it’s still worth it even if it comes at the cost of little redundancy.

How to write a skills section for your resume?

Although, at a first glance the skills resume section might seem straightforward. Once you start getting into the nitty-gritty of it, you will soon realize that you have a pile of practical questions that will require some research –– both about you and the job at hand.

A good way to start preparing for writing the skill section of your resume is by researching the job listing, the company, and its work culture and asking yourself these 4 questions:

• What are the skills needed for this job?
• Do my skills align with the job?
• Am I proficient in such skills?
• Is it essential to add these skills to my resume?

Once you’ve answered these questions, you can begin adding the skills that meet your requirements.

How to format skills on a resume?

Formatting your skills on your resume will depend on a few factors such as your choice of resume template and resume style. With the style of resume bearing the most weight; will it be a chronological, functional, or a combined resume?

• Chronological resume : This style of resume is the standard. It adds your work experience to the top of the resume and lists your jobs in chronological order from newest to oldest. Though anyone can use this style, those with greater experience benefit the most.
• Functional resume : If you want your resume to highlight your skills then picking a functional resume is the way to go, as it prioritizes them by adding them to the forefront of your resume. This is a great choice for those working in the tech industry or if you’re new to the workforce.
• Combined resume : As the name suggests, this is a mix of both a functional and chronological resume. This style of resume is a good way to go if you’re someone with a large gap in your employment or if you are switching careers. Where to put skills on a mixed resume depends on what you want to emphasize to your employer. If your skills are unique and in demand, put them at the top.

As for your resume template, you have more freedom and can pick from a variety of templates that meet your needs. However, not all resume templates are created equal and some are more suitable than others depending on the occupation.

If you’re having a hard time deciding what kind of resume template to use, go through resume examples to gauge what kind of templates are typically used for certain jobs.

Best skills to add to your resume in 2024

The rule of thumb is: stay relevant . What does it mean in practice?

First, it’s advised to limit the length of your resume to no more than two pages. This shouldn’t be a problem, as nowadays resume builders make it really simple to keep things concise.

Basically, by having a long resume you risk the hiring manager losing interest.

Hence, you need to provide only the most relevant information, and because things move so fast in today’s day and age you also need to make sure the information is up to date.

But how can you tell which of your skills are up to date and relevant for the job you want?

Easy, by following these 3 tips:

• Study the job advertisement.
• Print it out.
• Highlight skills that are essential for the job.

These skills are the keywords that both the hiring managers and the ATS will be looking for.

Once you’ve done that, see how many of those skills you already have and list them in your skills section.

Best hard skills to put on a resume in 2024

Like we said earlier on, the job landscape is evolving, and we don’t mean your typical slow pace Darwin-type of evolution. Nope. This is a fast computer-age evolution, and you’re going to have to put in some effort and come up with some great resume ideas for skills if you don’t want to be left in the dust.

This is especially true for careers that depend heavily on hard skills, such as those in the tech, industrial, and construction industries. So, just like bringing the right tool for the job, it’s important to bring the right set of hard skills.

With that said, these 10 hard skills are in huge demand in 2024:

• Cybersecurity
• Business analysis
• Sales processing
• Product Marketing
• Clinical research
• Creative writing
• Video editing
• Web development

Now, we don’t mean for you to just go jotting down as many hard skills as you can on your resume just because they’re in demand. No, unique skills for a resume or any additional skill for a resume should only be added if you can at least perform the skills with some proficiency.

Another good way to decide what skill to add to your skill summary is by asking yourself this question, “ Would I be able to answer a hiring manager’s in-depth questions about such skill ?”. If not, then scrap it from your resume and cover letter .

Best soft skills to put on a resume in 2024

It doesn’t matter how technical your profession is. At the end of the day, you’ll have to interact with people in some form or another. That’s where soft skills come into play.

Think about it, if you were a recruiter, who would you rather hire? A programmer who’s also emotionally intelligent and has a way with people? Or someone equally skilled but who is anti-social?

If you’d prefer the former candidate, you wouldn’t be alone. In fact, 67 percent of HR managers said they’d hire a candidate with strong soft skills even if his or her technical abilities were lacking. On the contrary, only 9 percent would hire someone with strong technical credentials but weak soft skills. Even when it comes to hard-to-fill positions, the candidate’s soft skills still amount to about 25 percent of the hiring decision .

Having said that, here are 10 of the most marketable soft skills in 2024:

• Time management
• Communication
• Conflict resolution
• Problem-solving
• Negotiation
• Attention to detail
• Flexibility
• Analytical thinking
• Collaboration

Most companies understand that efficiency alone doesn’t make an organization stand out. They need to be innovative too — and create an environment where talented workers want to come and stay.

Pro tip:  If you have a LinkedIn profile filled with all the important details, including your skills, work experience, academic background, and qualifications, you can  turn it into a polished resume with just one click.

Top skills by career field to add to a resume

Some general skills can be a plus for nearly any job out there, particularly soft skills.

However, the number one rule on how to write a resume applies here, too, always tailor your resume with skills that align with the job. Also, keep in mind that sometimes skills that don’t seem relevant actually are, you just have to learn how to describe skills on a resume. Here are a few soft and hard skill examples for popular career fields you can add to your resume (assuming you possess such skills).

Skills to put on an art and design resume (examples)

For those who want to work in a creative field, it's imperative to understand that a blend of both soft and hard skills are needed. Few jobs out there require you to be a lone wolf and because of this, regardless of how good you're at your craft, it's equally important to hone your soft skills.

• Soft skills: creativity, communication, collaboration, flexibility, planning, multitasking, troubleshooting, independence, perceptivity, accuracy
• Hard skills : basic HTML, print knowledge, Adobe Create Suite, Dreamweaver, typography knowledge, photo editing, logo creation , marketing, storyboard creation, layout

Get inspired by this stylish resume example for an illustrator .

Best skills to put on a marketing resume (examples)

As someone in the marketing field, you're likely very aware of how fast the world is changing, especially if you’re into digital marketing. Hence, it’s important for you to highlight that you’re keeping up with the latest trends.

• Soft skills : collaboration, intuitive, creativity, problem-solving, multitasking, curiosity, innovation, networking, quantitative thinking, forward-thinking
• Hard skills : content marketing, WordPress, mobile marketing, social media, email marketing, lead nurturing, SEO, Mailchimp, Adobe Photoshop, video production

Check out this well-researched resume example from an online marketing specialist for inspiration.

Best project manager skills (examples)

Since the start of the pandemic, project management skills have been in high demand, according to research from McKinsey . Keeping up with the competition means that project managers need to continually upskill themselves. To make the most of your resume, here are the best project management skills to include.

• Soft skills: problem-solving, negotiation, leadership, effective communication, organization, prioritization
• Hard skills: Project Management Methodologiesdata analysis and visualization, programming (in relevant fields), marketing, use of AI 

If you want to learn more about these skills, have a look at the article we dedicated to the top skills for a project manager that includes an example of a project manager resume .

Skills to put on a finance resume (examples)

There’s a rule (hopefully a joke) amongst those working in finance –– always put your job ahead of your personal life. Now, whether that’s hyperbole or not, it should tell you a bit about what’s expected in the field.   

• Soft skills : Leadership, presentation skills, compliance, diligence, being focused, initiative, thick-skinned, communication, execution, patience
• Hard skills : SQL, VBA, Python, index matching, Excel, pivot tables, advanced charting, financial modeling, CFA, C++

Take a look at this well-presented and executed resume example for an equity analyst for inspiration.

Skills to put on an IT resume (examples)

Many think that working in IT means you don’t really need soft skills and honestly, they couldn’t be more wrong. Soft skills are just as important as hard skills when it comes to IT, so make sure that your IT resume contains both sets of skills.

• Soft skills : Communication, attention to detail, logical thinking, adaptability, prioritizing, decisive, deadline management, problem-solving, collaboration, accuracy
• Hard skills : AI, data science, cloud services, blockchain, VR, Cyber security, python, AWS, CSS, cyber security

Start your resume strong, get inspired with this in-depth and well-formatted resume example for an IT analyst , or just watch the video below: 

Skills to put on a sales resume (examples)

Salespeople are "people people" and should definitely emphasize their soft skills on their resumes. However, many sales roles like B2B are becoming more tech-dependent and should also include hard skills on their resumes.

• Soft skills : Persuasion, negotiation, confidence, public speaking, active listening, responsibility, written communication, flexibility, intuition, business acumen
• Hard skills : Powerpoint, SEO, data analysis, SaSS, content writing, cold calling, CRM, email management, pitch creation, product knowledge

Have a peek at this persuasive resume example for a sales representative if you're in need of inspiration.

Skills to put on a hospitality resume (examples) 

Do you like to be surrounded by people? Does it bring you joy to make someone's day (or week) better by being able to accommodate their needs and create unforgettable experiences?

Then you were born for the hospitality industry! However, it's also important to demonstrate these qualities on a resume. Make sure that these hard skills and soft skills are included in your hospitality CV. 

• Soft skills : Multi-tasking, empathy, teamwork, problem-solving and conflict-resolution, active listening, flexibility, adaptability, resistance to stress;
• Hard skills : POS systems, front desk management, basic computer skills, event planning, knowledge of multiple languages, bartending course, social media marketing, and networking, vendor relations.

Are there any skills I should NOT include on a resume?

Sure, most skills you have might come in handy at some point. But that doesn’t mean that every skill belongs on a resume. In fact, the number of unsuitable skills is so large we had to split them into five categories:

• Skills you DON’T have . Remember, most skills take a lot of effort to acquire. Don’t fabricate them just to get hired. It will come back to haunt you in the long run — probably as soon as you get to the job interview. It’s bad enough to look incompetent but far worse to be seen as a liar.
• Obsolete skills. Do you know how to back up files on a floppy disk? Good, but don’t put it on your resume. You don’t want to look as obsolete as floppy disks. The same goes for other outdated technologies and skills related to them.
• Skills that have nothing to do with the job. Scuba diving is an impressive skill to have. But it’s also completely irrelevant if you’re applying for a job on dry land. Remember, hiring managers only have a limited attention span. Make sure they focus on those of your skills that can actually get you the job.
• Overused buzzwords. Are you a flexible quick learner? Are you passionately creative, always motivated, and focused on the strategic vision? Even if it’s true, don’t mention it. These are some of the most overused words on resumes, and hiring managers are tired of seeing them. What’s more, these buzzwords don’t really mean anything.
• Skills everybody should have. Never list skills like Microsoft Word, email, or web searching. It’s a given that anyone applying for an office job nowadays has these skills. Would you hire someone who considers the ability to browse the internet an achievement?

One more thing. If you’re struggling to fit your resume on a single page, consider shortening your skills section. Leave only the key skills on a resume, relevancy is what matters the most here. Prioritize the hard skills mentioned in the job advertisement and ditch anything less relevant. 

What are professional skills?

Professional skill is a hard or soft skill that was learned with the intention (either at school, job, or certifications) of applying it in an employment setting. Examples of such skills are computer languages, machine skills, and writing skills.

What to put under skills on a resume?

When deciding what to put under skills on a resume, it's advised to research the job ad. Once that is done, then you can list the skills you possess that align with the job ad description.

You can add hard skills, such as: Microsoft Word, Photoshop, and Excel. You can also add soft skills, such as: punctuality, teamwork, and problem solver.

How to list soft skills on a resume?

Listing soft skills can be done in multiple ways, you can sprinkle them through your work experience section of your resume, you can add them under the skills section, or create an independent section titled “Soft Skills”.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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How to write a professional resume summary [+examples], how to put your education on a resume [+examples], how to describe your work experience on a resume [+examples], let your resume do the work..

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10 essential resume skills to showcase your value to employers

by YouScience | Apr 16, 2024 | Blog

Writing a compelling resume involves more than just listing your work history and education. You also need to highlight your skills effectively to stand out to employers. It can be difficult to know what skills to put on a resume, especially if you don’t have much work experience. Below, we discuss 10 essential resume skills and advice for proving your value to potential employers.

What are good skills to put on a resume?

The best skills to put on a resume include a mix of hard and soft skills. Focus on skills that are most relevant to the position you want. Here are some resume skill examples you could include:

Communication skills

Effective communication is a fundamental skill required for almost every type of job. Communication skills include being able to articulate your ideas clearly and listening to others while understanding their perspective.

Active listening skills

Active listening requires paying close attention, asking clarifying questions, and showing empathy to ensure you thoroughly understand what someone is trying to say.

• Interpersonal skills

These skills refer to how well you work with other people. They include collaboration, conflict resolution, and the ability to build connections with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.

Leadership skills

Even if you’re not in a leadership role, showcasing your leadership qualities on your resume can set you apart from other candidates. Examples can include taking initiative, motivating others, and showing accountability.

Problem-solving skills

Employers value candidates who can think quickly to solve problems. Include times when you’ve identified issues, developed solutions, and implemented effective strategies to overcome challenges.

Computer skills

Nearly every job will require the use of a computer, so experience with computers and software is essential. Make sure to include any specific programs or tools you’re proficient in, especially ones directly related to the job you’re applying for.

Customer service skills

Even if you’re not applying for a customer-facing role, including customer service skills on your resume can still be valuable . These skills demonstrate your positivity, adaptability, communication skills, and attention to detail.

Transferable skills

These are skills that can be used in several different positions and industries. Transferable skills may include teamwork, adaptability, organization, or any other qualities all employers are looking for.

Management skills

Highlighting your management skills is crucial if you’re applying for any management role overseeing projects or teams. Management skills can include examples of delegation, decision-making, and conflict resolution.

Time management skills

Efficient time management shows your ability to prioritize assignments, meet deadlines, and maximize productivity. Employers want to hire disciplined employees who can tune out distractions during work hours.

Hard resume skills vs. soft resume skills

Skills for resumes are either hard or soft skills. Employers typically look for both types of skills on candidates’ resumes.

• Hard skills are specific skills needed to perform the job. These can include technological skills, field-specific education, or credentials related to the job.
• Soft skills include your personality attributes and interpersonal skills. These may include communication skills, leadership qualities, stress management, and problem-solving abilities.

How to list skills on a resume per job type

Tailor your skills to the job you’re applying for to show employers you’re suitable for the job. Here are some hard and soft resume skills examples for different positions:

Digital marketing specialist

Hard skills

• Google Analytics
• Project management systems

Soft skills

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Analytics thinking

Financial analyst

• Financial modeling
• Data analysis
• Attention to detail
• Creative thinking
• Collaboration

Data analyst

• Python and other statistical programming languages
• Data visualization
• Statistical analysis
• Machine learning
• Time management
• Adaptability

How YouScience helps with building a resume

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