15 Best Resume Writing Tips To Help You Land a Job

Struggling to get noticed by recruiters? These 15 resume writing tips are exactly what you need. From fixing common formatting flaws to using action words that recruiters actually care about, these tips are based on what hiring managers look for in 2025. 

Whether you're a fresher or a seasoned pro, your resume should work for you, not against you. Let’s break down what makes a resume job-worthy and what you should stop doing right now.

15 Best Resume Writing Tips

A well-crafted resume is essential because it acts as your strategic entry point into the hiring process. It's your opportunity to pre-qualify yourself, effectively communicating your unique value proposition before any direct interaction.

Want a resume that stands out? Back it up with real credentials. These programs add serious weight to your CV.

• Data Science Master’s Degree - LJMU
• Digital Marketing & Communication - MICA
• HR Analytics - IIMK

Now that we understand the importance of a good resume, let's explore 15 essential resume-writing tips that will help you craft a resume that gets noticed and opens doors to new opportunities.

1. Align Your Resume with the Job Description

Customizing your resume for each job application is crucial. Recruiters want to see that you understand the position and its requirements. By tailoring your resume, you highlight the skills and experience that directly match the job description. 

This makes it clear to employers that you’re a good fit for the role. Avoid sending a generic resume to all job postings. Instead, adjust the content to focus on the key qualifications and keywords listed in the job ad. 

This can help you get past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Example:

If you're applying for a project manager role, emphasize your experience in leading teams, managing timelines, and working with clients. For example, "Managed a cross-functional team of 10 members to complete 5+ projects on time and under budget." If applying for a marketing position, highlight relevant skills such as campaign management or digital marketing.

2. Use a Clean, Professional Layout

How your resume is laid out plays a key role in how it's perceived. A cluttered, hard-to-read resume can quickly turn off a hiring manager. 

Select a straightforward, professional format with distinct sections, including contact information, experience, skills, and education. Use bullet points to list responsibilities and achievements. Choose a font that’s easy to read, such as Arial or Times New Roman, and make sure the text is large enough to be legible. 

Consistent use of headings and subheadings helps guide the reader's eye through the document, making it easier to scan. A well-organized resume ensures that hiring managers can easily find the information they need.

Example:
For instance, choose a resume template with clear headings for "Experience," "Skills," and "Education." Use bullet points to improve readability and keep paragraphs short. A simple template with clean fonts, such as Arial or Calibri, makes your resume easy to read. It helps employers focus on your qualifications without distractions.

3. Simplify Technical Language for a Broader Audience

While you may have a technical background, remember that the person reviewing your resume might not be an expert in your field. To ensure your resume is clear, convert industry-specific jargon and technical terms into simple language that anyone can easily understand.

Instead of using abbreviations or acronyms that might confuse the reader, spell things out and use plain language. Simplifying technical language is especially important when applying for roles outside your current industry.  

A resume that’s accessible to a broader audience improves your chances of catching the attention of hiring managers who may not have a deep understanding of your technical field but still need your skills.

Example:

Technical jargon: "Developed machine learning models using Python to optimize predictive analytics and improve data-driven decision-making processes."

Rephrased for a broader audience: "Created automated systems using Python to analyze data and provide insights that helped the business make more informed decisions and improve efficiency." 

Whether you're just starting with Python or looking to sharpen your skills, upGrad's free Basic Python Programming Course can help you build a solid foundation. Start learning today and dive into the world of data science and automation.

4. Use Action Verbs to Describe Your Achievements

Describing your achievements with strong action verbs improves the impact of your resume. Instead of using passive phrases like "responsible for" or "in charge of," use more powerful action words like "led," "increased," "designed," or "executed." 

These verbs create a sense of accomplishment and show that you are proactive. For example, rather than writing "Responsible for managing a team," say "Led a team of 10 to achieve project goals ahead of schedule." 

Action verbs help paint a picture of your skills and contributions in a way that’s more compelling to employers.

Example:

Generic Statement: "Worked on improving text analysis models using NLP techniques."

Revised with Action Verbs: "Designed and implemented a Natural Language Processing model using Python and NLTK to automatically classify customer support tickets, reducing manual processing time by 30%."

5. Quantify Your Achievements

Numbers make a significant impact on your resume. Whenever possible, include measurable results to show the scope of your accomplishments. 

For example, instead of saying "Improved customer service," write "Improved customer satisfaction by 20% over 6 months." Adding specific figures helps employers understand the value you’ve brought to previous roles. 

Quantifying your achievements can also make your resume more memorable and impactful. Numbers make it easier for employers to grasp the scale of your success and how it could translate to future contributions.

Example:
Instead of saying, "Increased website traffic," say, "Increased website traffic by 40% in six months through targeted SEO strategies." Adding numbers provides measurable evidence of your success.

6. Include a Resume Summary or Objective

Begin your resume with a summary or objective statement. The Summary for your resume should clearly outline your career goals and what you bring to the table. A strong summary highlights your top skills, qualifications, and experience in a few sentences. 

If you’re changing careers, a resume objective can focus on how your skills apply to the new role. This summary is your chance to make a great first impression. A concise, impactful summary can grab the employer's attention and set the tone for the rest of your resume.

Example:
Experienced software engineer with 5+ years of expertise in developing scalable applications. Looking to utilize my skills in a challenging role to contribute to innovative projects at [InnovateX Solutions]." This summary outlines what you bring to the table and what you're seeking.

7. Keep It Concise and Focused

Hiring managers don’t have time to read lengthy resumes. Keep yours to one or two pages. Focus on the most important details—relevant work experience, key skills, and significant achievements. 

Remove outdated or unrelated information that doesn’t contribute to the role you’re applying for. A concise resume helps ensure that hiring managers see your most impressive qualifications without being overwhelmed by unnecessary details. A focused resume is easier to read and shows respect for the employer’s time.

Example:

If you have 15 years of experience, consider listing only your most recent jobs. Focus on the last 5-10 years and any relevant positions that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Instead of listing every task you've done, focus on the most impactful ones.

Also Read: How to Write a Resume with No Experience

8. Highlight Relevant Certifications and Training

List any certifications or training that directly relate to the job. Certifications demonstrate that you possess specialized knowledge and are dedicated to your profession. They can make a significant difference, especially for roles that require specific qualifications. 

Whether it’s a professional certification or a relevant course, this information strengthens your resume. Ensure that you list these credentials in a dedicated section so they stand out to the hiring manager.

Example:

If you're applying for a marketing role, include certifications such as "Google Analytics  Certified" or "HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification." These show your commitment to keeping up-to-date with industry standards.

9. Proofread Your Resume

Typos and errors can create a negative impression. Proofreading your resume is essential. Please read through it several times to catch spelling and grammar mistakes. 

Consider using tools like grammar checkers or asking a friend to review it for accuracy. Even minor errors can make your resume look unprofessional. A polished, error-free resume reflects attention to detail and a professional demeanor.

10. Focus on Soft Skills

Employers look for more than just technical expertise. Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, are equally important. Highlight these skills where relevant, especially if the job description mentions them. 

Demonstrating strong, soft skills alongside technical expertise can make you a more well-rounded candidate.

Example:
"Collaborated with cross-functional teams to improve project delivery time by 15%." This example shows teamwork and problem-solving skills, which are highly valued in many roles.

Also Read: How to Build a Resume For Your Dream Job: A Comprehensive Guide

11. Show Career Progression

Employers want to see growth in your career. Highlight any promotions or increased responsibilities in your roles. Showing career progress demonstrates your positive impact. It also shows that employers have trusted you with more important tasks over time. 

Be sure to list jobs in chronological order, starting with the most recent. This format clearly shows how your career has evolved and the value you’ve brought to past employers.

Example:
"Promoted from Junior Data Analyst to Senior Data Analyst within 18 months after successfully leading a project that optimized sales forecasting models, resulting in a 20% increase in forecasting accuracy."

12. Include Volunteer Work and Side Projects

Volunteer work and side projects can help you stand out from other candidates. Even if they're not directly related to the job, they demonstrate initiative and passion. These experiences can prove that you're a well-rounded individual with a diverse range of skills. 

List any relevant volunteer work in the experience section, or include a separate section for community involvement. Including volunteering work and side projects can reflect positively on your character and work ethic.

Example:

"Managed a community fundraising event that raised over $10,000 for local charities." Even if you're not yet working in your ideal field, volunteer work or side projects can demonstrate leadership, creativity, and other transferable skills.

13. Choose the Right Resume Format

The correct resume format is essential for effectively showcasing your creativity and technical skills. A combination resume format is most suitable for a UI/UX designer. 

Begin with a portfolio section that showcases your top projects, including links to your most notable designs, websites, or apps.  

Choosing the right resume format allows employers to quickly assess your work visually. After that, include a skills section where you list design tools, e.g., Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch, etc., and other relevant technologies.

Example:
Portfolio:

Redesigned the InnovateX app, improving user navigation and increasing customer engagement by 30%.

Follow with a work experience section, where you describe your design projects and their impact. Focus on your achievements, like improving user experience, streamlining workflows, or increasing conversions.

14. Incorporate Keywords for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Many companies use ATS to screen resumes before they even reach a hiring manager. To get past these systems, incorporate keywords from the job description. 

ATS scans for specific terms related to skills, experience, and qualifications. Using the right keywords increases the likelihood that hiring managers will see your resume.  

Be sure to include relevant terms without overstuffing them to maintain readability.

Example:
Before Optimization:
"Responsible for creating content and improving the company’s digital presence."

After Optimization:
"Developed and executed SEO strategies, increasing organic search traffic by 35% in 6 months. Managed Google Ads campaigns, optimizing keyword bidding strategies and achieving a 20% reduction in cost-per-click."

Also Read: How To Become a Google Ads Specialist: A Step-by-Step Guide

15. Keep Your Contact Information Up-to-Date

Your contact information must be accurate and current. Ensure that your phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable) are correct. 

An outdated or unprofessional email address could hurt your chances of being contacted. 

Keep your contact details simple and easy to find at the top of your resume. Employers should be able to reach you without any issues.

Example:
Double-check your phone number and email address before submitting your resume. If you've recently changed your email address, ensure it's professional (e.g., Ravi.kumar@email.com) rather than something outdated or unprofessional, such as "coolravi143@email.com."

You’ve now got the tools to make your resume shine—but even the best tips won’t help if you're unknowingly making critical mistakes. Before you hit send, here are some common resume mistakes to avoid that could be holding you back from landing the interview.

Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid

While there are many ways to make your resume stand out, there are also common pitfalls that could hurt your chances. Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure your resume makes the best possible impression.

Let's review some key errors to watch out for and how to correct them.

1. Using an Unprofessional Email Address: Stick to a simple, professional email address, like your first and last name. Avoid using nicknames or numbers.
2. Failing to Tailor Your Resume: Customizing your resume for each job is crucial. Avoid sending the same generic resume to multiple employers.
3. Including Irrelevant Information: Focus on relevant work experience and skills. Remove outdated roles or hobbies that don't add value to the job you're applying for.
4. Overloading Your Resume with Text: Keep your resume concise and clear. Use bullet points and avoid large blocks of text to make it easier to read.
5. Using an Overly Complex Format: Avoid using too many fonts, colors, or graphics. Keep your resume layout professional and straightforward.
6. Neglecting to Proofread: Always proofread your resume. Spelling and grammar mistakes can hurt your chances of getting hired.
7. Exaggerating or Lying About Your Experience: Be truthful about your skills and experience. Lying can be easily uncovered and may cost you the job.

Conclusion

Creating a standout resume is key to catching the attention of hiring managers and securing the job you desire. You now have a solid foundation to craft a tailored, professional resume. It will highlight your strengths, avoid common mistakes, and grab attention. By applying these practical tips, you’ll be able to present your qualifications clearly and confidently.

If you’re looking to strengthen your resume further and enhance your career growth, upGrad’s courses can provide the direction you need. You can gain the knowledge and confidence to take your professional journey to the next level. This comes from expert-led programs. They address skill gaps and offer career-focused guidance.

In addition to the courses covered in this blog, here are some free courses to help you develop essential skills and improve your resume:

• Introduction to Digital Marketing
• Business Communication Skills
• Advanced Writing and Editing for Print Media
• Advanced Prompt Engineering Course with ChatGPT

If you're unsure how to start or which skills to prioritize, upGrad’s expert career counselors can offer customized guidance to help you reach your goals. You can also visit a nearby upGrad offline center to explore courses, gain hands-on experience, and connect directly with mentors.

Enhance your expertise with our Popular MBA Courses. Explore the programs below to find your ideal fit.

Explore our Popular MBA Courses

Expand your knowledge with our Popular Articles Related to MBA. Browse the programs below to discover your ideal match.

Read Our Popular Articles Related to MBA

Reference:
https://rsnwltd.com/job-seeking/recruiters-are-skipping-your-cv-after-6-seconds-heres-how-to-make-them-stop