A resume is a professional document that showcases an individual’s education, skills, work history, and achievements. As part of the job application process, employers typically request this document to identify your qualifications quickly. A resume for a job comprises several components: your contact information, a summary statement, education, work experience, and skills.
Resume vs. Curriculum Vitae: What’s the Difference?
A document that summarizes your education, work history, and skills, a resume for a job is one to two pages long and is commonly used in the U.S. and Canada for most industries. And a curriculum vitae (CV) is similar, but lengthier at typically four or more pages. It is a more detailed document and is commonly used in academia, research, medical, and scientific institutions. CVs are also used outside of the U.S. It is helpful to know what a CV resume is; the terms “resume” and “CV” are often used interchangeably in these areas.
| Feature | Resume | CV |
| Length | One to two pages | Multiple pages (no set limit) |
| Purpose | Brief, targeted job summary | Detailed academic and career history |
| Content | Work experience, skills, achievements | Education, research, publications, grants |
| Use | Corporate jobs in U.S., Canada | Academic, research, medical roles worldwide |
| Customization | Tailored for each job application | Rarely tailored, comprehensive overview |
What is the purpose of a resume?
The primary purpose of a resume is to effectively communicate your qualifications, experience, and achievements to potential employers, to secure an interview. A resume offers a snapshot of your background with well-organized sections highlighting relevant skills and accomplishments. This allows employers to assess your fit for the role and compare candidates quickly.
Additionally, a well-structured resume is essential for passing an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), as these systems scan for keywords and job-specific information. Crafting an ATS-friendly resume with clear formatting and strategic keywords can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed.
Key Resume Sections
Your full name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL should be at the top of the page. Put your name in a larger font so it stands out. Below your name will be the additional information. For example:
Name
Phone Number | Email | LinkedIn URL
There is no need to include your full mailing address. You may include city, state, and zip code, but it is unnecessary.
Professional Summary or Objective
A professional summary is best for candidates with experience. It provides an overview of your strengths and background in a few concise sentences to demonstrate why you are qualified for the position.
Example:
“A software developer with seven years of experience specializing in Agile software development, back-end development, Python, and web development. A strong history of developing innovative application features and software solutions to enhance the user experience (UX). Seeking a technical project manager position with Aiden Corporation to advance into a leadership role.”
An objective is suitable for new graduates or career changers. This brief statement focuses on why you are applying for the role.
Example:
“A recent nursing graduate with entry-level work experience specializing in patient relations, post-anesthesia care, and process improvement. Seeking a registered nurse (RN) position with the University of Pennsylvania Hospital to deliver quality patient-centered care and grow as a medical professional within one of the nation’s leading hospitals.”
Work Experience
List each job in reverse chronological order, including your job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. Focus on achievements rather than duties to demonstrate your impact. For example, instead of “Handled client accounts,” try “Increased client satisfaction by 20% through streamlined account management.”
For formatting the experience section, use bullet points, action verbs to start the sentence, and add quantifiable results whenever possible. Consider the tasks you performed, the skills used to complete them, how often you did the tasks, who was affected, and the impact.
Here’s an example:
Work Experience
Senior Accountant
NetSuite, San Diego, CA
January 2020 – Present
- Increased client satisfaction by 20% through streamlined account management, leading to a 15% rise in repeat business within one year.
- Oversaw all aspects of financial reporting for a software consulting firm valued at $18 million, achieving a 30% reduction in reporting errors.
- Led a team during the transition from outdated accounting software, which eliminated redundant processes and reduced annual labor costs by 25%.
- Acted as the liaison between the CFO and the accounting team, resolving complex financial issues and enhancing communication efficiency by 40%.
Accounting Manager
Pantheon Technologies, San Diego, CA
June 2015 – December 2019
- Managed a 40-person accounting department, successfully reducing month-end close time by 50% through improved processes and team collaboration.
- Developed and implemented financial controls that enhanced compliance with SOX regulations, resulting in a flawless audit report for three consecutive years.
- Conducted reconciliations for client accounts valued at up to $3 million, significantly decreasing discrepancies and enhancing overall client trust.
- Identified opportunities to cut annual operating costs by 15% through comprehensive evaluations of financial processes and vendor contracts.
Staff Accountant
ABC Financial Services, San Diego, CA
August 2012 – May 2015
- Improved accounts payable processes, reducing invoice processing time by 30% and increasing vendor satisfaction through timely payments.
- Assisted in the preparation of quarterly financial statements, contributing to a 20% year-over-year increase in profitability through accurate reporting and analysis.
- Collaborated with external auditors to facilitate year-end audits, resulting in a 100% approval rating on audit processes.
- Enhanced financial reporting accuracy by implementing new software tools, leading to a 25% improvement in report turnaround time.
Education
If applicable, list your education in reverse chronological order, including the school’s name, location, type of degree earned, and in what subject. For recent graduates, education should be listed at the top, above experience; for professionals with five or more years in their field, list it below.
For example:
Education
Master of Science in Accounting
University of California, San Diego, CA
Graduated: May 2012
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Accounting
San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
Graduated: May 2010
Certifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
Skills
The skills section should highlight your knowledge and proficiencies. You can break this section down further if you are in a technical field. For example, software, hardware, programming languages, and operating systems. Additionally, skills related to the role or industry can be listed here. If you know a language other than English, you can include it here or in a separate language skills section. You can list transferable skills, also known as soft skills, but weave them into your bullet points.
Here’s an example:
Skills
- Accounting Software Proficiency: QuickBooks, NetSuite, ADP
- Financial Analysis
- Regulatory Compliance: GAAP, SOX, tax regulations
- Data Management: Advanced Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, macros)
- Internal Controls
- Communication Skills
- Problem Solving
- Leadership and Team Management
Types of Resumes: Which Format is Right for You?
- Chronological Resume: Best for job seekers with a solid work history
- Functional Resume: Ideal for career changers or those with gaps in their employment
- Combination Resume: A hybrid option that balances work experience and skills
Selecting the right resume format is crucial. If you have a history of steady employment with little to no gaps — also related to the position you are applying for — a chronological resume is the most common format. It lists your most current education and experiences first and goes backward.
If you are changing careers or have significant gaps in your employment, a functional resume can help. This style emphasizes skills over work history and dates.
For those with a variety of work history, or a few employment gaps, a combination resume will balance your work and skills best. This style is a hybrid of chronological and functional, so it displays skills but maintains relevant work history being showcased.
Using a Chronological Resume
A chronological resume is an effective format for job seekers with a solid and continuous work history, as it emphasizes career progression and stability. This format lists work experience in reverse chronological order, showcasing your most recent positions at the top. This is particularly advantageous for individuals in industries like accounting, where employers often prefer to see a clear professional development timeline and relevant accomplishments.
By focusing on job titles, companies, and dates of employment, a chronological resume allows potential employers to assess your experience and growth in the field quickly. Additionally, it highlights your key achievements and contributions, making it easier to align your qualifications with the job requirements.
Chronological Resume Example
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile URL]
Professional Summary
Dedicated and results-driven accountant with over 8 years of experience in financial management and reporting. Proven ability to analyze financial data, improve processes, and enhance operational efficiency. Strong communicator with a commitment to maintaining compliance with industry regulations and standards.
Work Experience
Senior Accountant
NetSuite, San Diego, CA
January 2020 – Present
- Increased client satisfaction by 20% through streamlined account management, leading to a 15% rise in repeat business.
- Oversaw financial reporting for a software consulting firm, achieving a 30% reduction in reporting errors.
- Led a team during the transition to new accounting software, reducing labor costs by 25%.
Accounting Manager
Pantheon Technologies, San Diego, CA
June 2015 – December 2019
- Managed a 40-person accounting department, reducing month-end close time by 50%.
- Developed financial controls that enhanced compliance, resulting in a flawless audit report for three consecutive years.
- Conducted reconciliations for client accounts, significantly decreasing discrepancies.
Staff Accountant
ABC Financial Services, San Diego, CA
August 2012 – May 2015
- Improved accounts payable processes, reducing invoice processing time by 30%.
- Assisted in preparing quarterly financial statements, contributing to a 20% increase in profitability.
- Collaborated with auditors to facilitate year-end audits, achieving a 100% approval rating.
Education
Master of Science in Accounting
University of California, San Diego, CA
Graduated: May 2012
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Accounting
San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
Graduated: May 2010
Skills
- Accounting Software Proficiency: QuickBooks, NetSuite, ADP
- Financial Analysis: Data analysis, trend identification
- Regulatory Compliance: GAAP, SOX, tax regulations
- Data Management: Advanced Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, macros)
- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication
- Problem Solving: Analytical skills for financial discrepancies
Leadership: Team management and mentorship
Using a Functional Resume
A functional resume is particularly beneficial for career changers or individuals with gaps in their employment history, as it emphasizes skills and qualifications over a chronological work history. This format allows job seekers to highlight their relevant abilities and accomplishments, making showcasing transferable skills that apply to the desired position easier.
By organizing the resume around key skill areas rather than specific job titles or dates, candidates can effectively present their qualifications without drawing attention to employment gaps or a lack of direct experience in the new field. This approach helps employers focus on what candidates can bring to the role rather than their previous job titles.
Functional Resume Example
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile URL]
Professional Summary
Results-oriented professional with extensive experience in accounting and finance. Proven ability to adapt skills to new environments and industries, with a strong focus on financial analysis, compliance, and team collaboration.
Skills Summary
- Financial Management
- Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
- Accounting Software Proficiency
- Proficient in QuickBooks, NetSuite, and ADP.
- Regulatory Compliance
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, SOX, and tax regulations.
- Data Analysis
- Advanced skills in Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and macros.
- Leadership
- Experience in managing teams and fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Communication
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, adept at presenting financial data to stakeholders.
Relevant Experience
Accounting Projects
- Developed financial reports for a local nonprofit organization, enhancing their budgeting process and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Assisted in the implementation of a new accounting software system for a small business, resulting in improved data accuracy and efficiency.
Voluntary Roles
- Financial Advisor, Community Organization, San Diego, CA
- Provided pro bono financial advice and assistance in preparing tax returns for low-income families.
- Treasurer, Local Charity Event, San Diego, CA
- Managed fundraising activities and financial records for a successful charity event, raising over $10,000 for community services.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Accounting
San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
Graduated: May 2010
Certifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
Using a Combination Resume
A combination resume merges the strengths of both chronological and functional formats, making it an excellent choice for job seekers who want to highlight both their skills and work experience. This hybrid option allows candidates to showcase their most relevant skills at the top, followed by a detailed work history that provides context for applying those skills in real-world settings.
This format is particularly beneficial for professionals with a robust skill set gained through varied experiences, as it emphasizes qualifications while still demonstrating career progression and relevant job titles. The combination resume provides a comprehensive overview that appeals to employers looking for both capability and experience.
Combination Resume Example
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile URL]
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented accountant with over 8 years of experience in financial management and reporting. Strong analytical skills with a proven track record of enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
Skills Summary
- Accounting Software: Proficient in QuickBooks, NetSuite, and ADP.
- Financial Analysis: Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
- Regulatory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of GAAP, SOX, and tax regulations.
- Data Management: Advanced proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, macros).
- Leadership and Team Management: Experience leading teams and driving productivity.
- Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
Work Experience
Senior Accountant
NetSuite, San Diego, CA
January 2020 – Present
- Increased client satisfaction by 20% through improved account management strategies.
- Oversaw financial reporting, achieving a 30% reduction in reporting errors.
Accounting Manager
Pantheon Technologies, San Diego, CA
June 2015 – December 2019
- Managed a 40-person team, streamlining month-end close processes and reducing time by 50%.
- Developed financial controls that enhanced compliance and resulted in flawless audit reports.
Staff Accountant
ABC Financial Services, San Diego, CA
August 2012 – May 2015
- Improved accounts payable processes, cutting invoice processing time by 30%.
- Collaborated with auditors to ensure smooth year-end audits with a 100% approval rating.
Education
Master of Science in Accounting
University of California, San Diego, CA
Graduated: May 2012
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Accounting
San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
Graduated: May 2010
Certifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
How a Resume Differs Across Industries
Resumes can vary across industries to highlight the skills and qualifications most valued in each field. In tech, resumes often emphasize technical skills, relevant projects, and certifications. Using sections like “Technical Skills,” which may be broken down even further, such as: hardware, software, programming languages, and operating systems.
Technical resumes also prominently showcase certifications. In creative fields, a resume may highlight a portfolio link and include sections for notable projects or freelance work. Meanwhile, legal resumes focus on academic achievements, internships, mock trials, fellowships, and professional association memberships.
Tailoring a resume for specific industries means emphasizing the qualifications, keywords, and experience most relevant to the role to align with employer expectations in that field. For example, if you seek a software development position, your technical skills would be listed at the top, and prominently displayed.
However, if you have many technical skills but are not seeking to work in tech, they could go toward the bottom of the page. Different industries and the common positions within them call for distinct styles.
Common mistakes to avoid on your resume
Typical resume mistakes can easily detract from your qualifications. Cluttering your resume by overloading it with information is a frequent error. There is no need to list every job you have ever held, nor should there be tons of bullets under each job — three to five bullets is sufficient. Focus on achievements relevant to the role you’re applying for.
Another common misstep is not tailoring your resume to the job description — each job is unique, so customizing your resume with key skills and experiences matching the role increases your chances. This can be as simple as writing Microsoft Office Suite instead of MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Finally, ensure your contact details are professional. Using an unprofessional email address can leave a negative impression.
FAQs About Resumes
What is a resume and why do I need one?-
A resume is a document that highlights your qualifications for a job and is required for most job applications.
What is the difference between a resume and a CV?+
A resume is typically shorter and used for most job applications, while a CV is more detailed and often used in academia.
What is a resume for a job?+
A resume for a job is specifically tailored to highlight your experience and skills relevant to the position you are applying for.
What is the purpose of a resume?+
The purpose of a resume is to present your qualifications in a way that convinces employers to interview you.
Can a resume be longer than one page?+
Yes, for more experienced professionals, a two-page resume can be acceptable, but clarity and conciseness are key.
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