If you’re applying for jobs, you need a resume. A resume is a simple document that shows employers your experience, skills, and education. The good news is that creating a resume is easier than most people think.
This beginner-friendly guide will show you exactly how to make a resume step by step.
What a Resume Is
A resume is a one-page document that explains:
- Who you are
- What work you have done
- What skills you have
- What education you completed
Employers use resumes to decide who to interview.
Most resumes should be one page long, especially for entry-level jobs.
Step 1: Add Your Contact Information
At the top of your resume include:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- City and state
Example:
John Smith
Chicago, Illinois
johnsmith@email.com
555-123-4567
Make sure your email address sounds professional.
Step 2: Write a Simple Summary
A summary is a short paragraph at the top of your resume.
Keep it 2–3 sentences long.
Example:
“Reliable and motivated worker with experience in customer service and warehouse operations. Strong attention to detail and ability to work in fast-paced environments. Seeking a full-time position with opportunities to grow.”
This helps employers quickly understand your background.
Step 3: List Your Work Experience
List jobs starting with the most recent.
Include:
- Job title
- Company name
- Dates worked
Example:
Warehouse Associate
ABC Logistics
June 2023 – Present
Then include bullet points describing what you did.
Example:
- Packed and shipped orders
- Operated pallet jacks
- Maintained organized inventory
- Assisted team members
Use simple language.
Step 4: Add Your Skills
Include skills that relate to the job.
Examples:
- Customer service
- Data entry
- Microsoft Excel
- Organization
- Communication
- Problem solving
Avoid listing too many skills.
5–10 skills is ideal.
Step 5: Add Education
Include:
- School name
- Degree or diploma
- Graduation year (optional)
Example:
Lincoln High School
High School Diploma
or
Community College of Chicago
Associate Degree in Business
Step 6: Keep Formatting Simple
Use:
- Black text
- White background
- Standard fonts
Good fonts:
- Arial
- Calibri
- Times New Roman
Avoid:
- Colors
- Graphics
- Fancy designs
Simple resumes are easier to read.
Step 7: Check for Mistakes
Before sending your resume:
- Fix spelling errors
- Fix grammar errors
- Check phone number
- Check email
Small mistakes can hurt your chances.
Step 8: Save as PDF
Always save your resume as a PDF unless the employer asks for another format.
PDF files keep formatting consistent.
Step 9: Update Your Resume Often
Update your resume whenever you:
- Get a new job
- Learn new skills
- Complete training
Keeping your resume updated saves time later.
Step 10: Start Applying
Your resume does not need to be perfect.
A simple resume that clearly shows your experience is enough to begin applying.
You can improve it over time.