How to make a résumé: tips, layout, information and tricks

Writing a good résumé is the first step to standing out in any job application. Whether you’re applying for your first position or looking to advance your career, having a well-structured, clear, and tailored résumé can make all the difference. Here’s a quick guide to building one that gets noticed.

Structure and content of your résumé

Your résumé should follow a clean and organized structure. Start with your personal information, including your full name, contact details, and address. Then, list your academic background, mentioning dates, institutions, and locations. Follow this with any complementary studies, like workshops or seminars.

Next, detail your professional experience, starting with job title, company, and time period, followed by a brief description of your responsibilities. Add a section for languages, indicating your spoken and written proficiency levels. You should also include your computer skills, from operating systems to software and tools. End with additional relevant information like driving license, availability, or volunteering.

Key tips for creating a strong résumé

A résumé must be clear, formal, and error-free. Always proofread carefully to avoid spelling mistakes, and use a professional tone throughout. Stick to a readable design without clutter, ensuring everything is easy to scan.

Make sure to tailor your résumé to the job you’re applying for, emphasizing skills and experience relevant to the position. Finally, try to keep your résumé within two pages, summarizing only what truly adds value.

Presentation formats to consider

You can choose between chronological, reverse-chronological, or functional layouts, depending on how you want to highlight your experience. Use the format that best matches your strengths and goals.