Creating a resume from scratch can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re starting fresh or changing careers. But here’s the truth: building a resume is easier than ever with the right tools, tips, and a strategy grounded in what hiring managers are actually looking for.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a professional, standout resume from the ground up—even if you’ve never written one before. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a job seeker pivoting careers, or just want to revamp your outdated CV, this post is for you.
Let’s get started.
Why a Well-Crafted Resume Matters in 2025
Your resume is still the first impression you make on recruiters. With over 75% of recruiters using applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter candidates, it’s essential that your resume is not only visually appealing but also keyword-optimized for these systems.
Since 2020, the job market has become more competitive than ever—and with that, applicant tracking systems (ATS) now screen out a growing number of resumes before they even reach a recruiter’s desk. While it’s often cited that 75% of resumes are rejected by ATS software, that figure actually originated from a 2013 claim by a company called Preptel and was never backed by research. Still, even though the true percentage is likely lower, it remains significant enough to impact your chances of landing an interview.
Step 1: Choose the Right Resume Format
There are three standard resume formats:
| Format Type | Best For | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Chronological | Most job seekers | Lists work experience in reverse chronological order |
| Functional | Career changers or those with gaps | Focuses on skills rather than work history |
| Combination | Experienced professionals | Blends skills and work experience equally |
Pro Tip: For most job seekers, the chronological format is the safest and most widely accepted by ATS.
Step 2: Start With a Strong Resume Header
At the top of your resume, include:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Professional email address (avoid outdated providers like AOL)
- LinkedIn profile (updated)
- Portfolio link (if applicable)
Example
Emma Smith
📞 (123) 456-7890
✉️ emma.smith@gmail.com
🔗 linkedin.com/in/emmasmith
🌐 emmasmithportfolio.com
Step 3: Write a Powerful Resume Summary
Your summary should be a 2–3 sentence elevator pitch that highlights your experience, skills, and goals.
Example Summary
Results-driven digital marketer with 5+ years of experience in SEO, content strategy, and paid media. Proven track record of increasing web traffic by 120% in under 6 months. Seeking to leverage skills to drive ROI at a fast-paced SaaS company.
Use ChatGPT or Resume Worded to optimize your summary with keywords.
Step 4: Detail Your Work Experience with Metrics
Each job entry should include:
- Job Title
- Company Name + Location
- Dates of Employment
- Bullet Points with Achievements
Use action verbs and focus on measurable results.
Example
SEO Specialist | BrightWave Agency | New York, NY
June 2021 – Present
- Increased organic traffic by +140% in 12 months through keyword optimization and backlink strategies
- Conducted monthly audits and improved Core Web Vitals, leading to a 20% boost in page speed
- Implemented structured data, leading to 45% more featured snippets in Google
Step 5: Add Relevant Skills (Both Hard and Soft)
Use a dedicated Skills section. Prioritize job-specific hard skills while sprinkling in soft skills that show you’re a team player.
Hard Skills Examples
- SEO
- Data Analysis
- JavaScript
- CRM Platforms (e.g., HubSpot)
Soft Skills Examples
- Team Collaboration
- Leadership
- Critical Thinking
- Adaptability
Use LinkedIn’s top skills list to identify high-demand competencies in your industry.
Step 6: Education & Certifications
List your highest level of education first. Include:
- Degree
- School Name + Location
- Graduation Date
- Relevant honors or GPA (if recent)
Certifications (especially industry-specific ones) should be included in a separate section. For example:
- Google Analytics Certification – Google Skillshop
- HubSpot Inbound Marketing – HubSpot Academy
Step 7: Tailor Your Resume for Each Job
Never send a generic resume. Instead:
- Use the job description to identify keywords
- Match your skills and experience to those keywords
- Customize your summary and skills section accordingly
A tool like Rezi can analyze a job description and help you optimize your resume accordingly.
Step 8: Format for ATS and Readability
Make sure your resume:
- Uses standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica
- Avoids images, tables, or headers that can confuse ATS
- Is saved in PDF or .docx format (check job posting instructions)
Recommended Resume Length:
- Entry-level: 1 page
- Mid-career to senior: 1–2 pages
Use a clean, modern template. Canva and Novoresume offer ATS-friendly resume templates.
Step 9: Proofread and Get Feedback
Before submitting:
- Run your resume through Grammarly
- Ask a friend or mentor to review it
- Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing
Consider using the Hemingway App to ensure clarity and readability.
Visual: Resume Checklist
Here’s a downloadable checklist to guide your resume-building process:
| Resume Section | ✔️ Included |
|---|---|
| Contact Info | ✅ |
| Professional Summary | ✅ |
| Work Experience | ✅ |
| Skills | ✅ |
| Education | ✅ |
| Certifications (if any) | ✅ |
| Tailored to Job | ✅ |
| Proofread | ✅ |
| ATS-Optimized | ✅ |
Keep Updating Your Resume
Your resume is a living document. Update it regularly—especially after promotions, certifications, or major wins. The better it reflects your current value, the easier it will be to seize new opportunities.
And remember: Your resume gets you the interview. You get the job.
