Consider your industry, the job you’re applying for, and your personal style. Choose a template that is clean, professional, and easy to read.

For most professionals, a one-page resume is ideal. Experienced candidates with extensive relevant experience may extend to two pages, but be mindful that recruiters typically spend only 6-7 seconds scanning a resume initially.

An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software used by employers to scan, sort, and rank resumes. To make yours ATS-friendly, use a clean format, standard section headings, include relevant keywords from the job description, and avoid tables, images, and unusual fonts.

A cover letter complements your resume by explaining why you’re interested in the position, how your experience makes you a good fit, and what you can bring to the organization. It provides context and personality that a resume alone cannot convey.

Action verbs are powerful, descriptive verbs (like ‘achieved,’ ‘led,’ ‘implemented’) that describe your accomplishments. Using them makes your resume more dynamic and helps employers envision your contributions and impact.