How to Use a Resume Outline to Write the Best Resume

Updated June 18, 20221.6k

Write your resume faster by working with a resume outline. Create your own resume outline or use a pre-existing resume template to make your resume faster and get the job.

Resume Outline

Resume writing can be a challenge for even an experienced job seeker. Using a resume outline can simplify the process. A resume outline will give you a structure to create your resume. You can make your own resume outline or use a free resume template or resume builder. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about resume outlines, from what format you should choose to what you should include for the best resume.

What Does a Standard Resume Outline Include?

A professional resume will always contain certain standard information. When looking at resume samples, you will notice that all have the following sections that you should include in your outline:

Contact Information

Include contact information at the top of your resume in the header. Contact information should include:
- Full name
- Street address
- Phone number
- Email address
- Professional profile link (optional)
Resume summary or objective

A resume objective or summary statement tells hiring managers what makes you perfect for the job, featuring your top skills and achievements. An objective statement focuses on your goal for the position (and is better for first-time job seekers), while a summary details your past related work history (and is better for experienced job seekers).

For example, a web developer may write this as an objective:

Full stack web developer with ten years of experience seeking a senior developer position with XYZ Company. Eager to use my knowledge of storage systems to increase efficiency through automation.
Skills and qualifications

Try to include both soft skills and hard skills in the skills section of your resume. Soft skills are interpersonal skills, such as listening, teamwork, or communication. Hard skills are technical skills, such as specialized techniques or knowledge. Use the job description to find keywords to describe relevant skills for the position. You can use bullet points for this section to make your skills stand out to the hiring managers.
Work History

Your work experience goes in order from your current or most recent job to the last. For job seekers that have gaps in their professional experience, or those who are changing careers, it may be best to use a resume format that focuses on skills, such as a functional resume format. If you don’t have a lot of work experience, then you can use internships or volunteer work on your resume.
Education

Your education section should include:
- University, college, or program
- Your field of study
- Associated academic achievements or honors
- Relevant coursework (optional)
Achievements and awards

Achievements and awards can enhance your resume and give you credibility in your field. These may include:
- The employee of the month or year
- Academic awards or recognition
- Industry publications you have been featured in
- Industry events you have hosted or spoken at
Certifications

Relevant certifications can be added to your resume and may be required, depending on the job. If you are lacking in certifications, there are many programs online where you can learn relevant skills and knowledge for a variety of jobs.

Three Tips To Tailor Your Resume Outline For Every Job

While there are certain elements that should be included in every resume outline, others may change based on your professional experience and the job description of the position you are applying to. There are three tips you can use to tailor your resume outline to make the best impression on recruiters.

1. Choose your resume format based on your level of experience.

There are three types of resume formats you can choose from:

The chronological resume format focuses on work experience.
The functional resume format focuses on relevant skills.
The combination resume format features work history and skills sections equally.

2. Tailor your resume for an applicant tracking system (ATS).

Many hiring managers use ATS for jobs that have a large number of candidates. An ATS is a computer program that will automatically scan your job application and filter based on resume format, work experience, skills, and key words. To make it past the ATS, you can tailor your resume in several ways.

Use a standard professional font.
Use a straightforward resume layout.
Use keywords from the job description (e.g., specific skills and qualifications) in your resume and cover letter.

3. Consider the job title and job description.

When creating your resume outline, consider the type of job and industry you are applying to. A more creative field, such as graphic design, may benefit from the use of an infographic resume or visual elements such as resume icons. For a job as a business analyst, you may want to stick to a more conservative style for your resume.

FAQ: Resume Outline

Is a resume outline necessary for the perfect resume?

Resume writing always begins with an outline. You can create one yourself or use a resume builder that will provide an outline and template for you to simply fill in with your job experience and details.

What if my resume outline takes up more than one page?

If your resume outline is taking your resume past one page, then you have a few options:

- Remove less critical details such as languages, hobbies, or interests.
- Make sure you’re using bullet points and concise phrases rather than large amounts of text.
- You can use a resume template to help you to create your resume in a more efficient way.

How do I know what order to put my resume sections?

When outlining your resume, keep in mind what resume format you will be using. A chronological resume may be better if you have more professional experience. A functional resume can emphasize your relevant skills if you are a recent graduate or new to the industry. Depending on the format, your skills and experience sections will be arranged differently on the page.

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About The Author

Cindi Cervone Carlson

Cindi Cervone Carlson is a Senior Vice President for Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. Cindi is responsible for developing, delivering, and implementing a dynamic, world-class organization dedicated to delivering outplacement consulting, training, support, and executive coaching. Cindi started her career at Challenger as a client who had lost her job. Over the past nine years, she has risen from an entry-level, part-time professional to Senior Vice President.