resume for older workers template

• Career Development

7 No-Fail Resume Tips for Older Workers (+ Examples)

While most job seekers experience obstacles during their efforts to find that perfect job, older workers, those with over 20 years of experience, often face unique challenges. For a variety of reasons, a lot of hiring managers seem to give preference to younger workers. Usually, that preference is the result of either conscious or unconscious bias. 

It could be because they might feel older workers are out of touch with modern tech or aren’t as quick at grasping new concepts or ideas. They forget that older workers often have so much more experience and knowledge about their chosen field than someone just entering the workplace.

To counter this bias, older workers need to know how to craft a comprehensive resume that maximizes their odds of landing an interview during the job search process without prejudice creeping in. You don’t want your detailed resume for an older worker ending up on the “no” pile without being considered at all and through no fault of your own.

Read on about how our team of career experts has come up with 7 no-fail tips for resumes for older workers that can help you land more interviews.

How strategic resumes help older workers

First, though, it’s helpful to understand why these tips for resumes for older workers are even necessary. It all comes down to perception. Applications from more experienced job seekers often contain resumes that are filled with years of valuable accomplishments. They have relevant skills crafted over many decades of employment. On the surface, you’d think those would be positive benefits that would excite most potential employers and hiring managers. Sadly, that’s not always the case when compared to younger job seekers.

In fact, many employers view a lengthy work history as a sign that the older worker is probably outdated. They may assume that you can’t possibly be familiar with current technology, trends, and strategies.

Worse still, they may even believe that they can’t afford to hire you. After all, your lengthy experience and impressive skill set should command a high salary, right? Basically, these hiring managers will assume that your age and experience with outdated tech skills represent too great a risk, and you might get turned down at the first hurdle before you’ve even been given a chance to state your suitability for the role.

The best way to avoid that rejection is to update your resume by following the tips below to showcase your skills and qualifications the right way, enabling you to effectively remove the age question from your resume. 

7 tips for resumes for older workers

1. omit dates from your resume.

One of the best tips for resumes for older workers is to avoid using graduation dates in the education section. It’s difficult to work around your age if your college graduation date is there in black-and-white. There’s no requirement to add this, so just skip the dates altogether, but keep it consistent so there are no dates on professional development courses as well.

2. Only include the last 10 to 15 years of your experience

Another of our top tips for resumes for older workers involves relevancy. Instead of including every bit of work experience you’ve ever done, going back to the 1990s, stick to your up-to-date jobs by setting out your career summary in reverse chronological order, with your most recent role at the top. So for older workers - leave some jobs off your resume. 

Your best option is to only include relevant experience from the last 10 to 15 years. For a more detailed explanation of how far back to go, check out our blog on how many years of experience you need to include on your resume .

3. Avoid listing outdated skills 

Many resumes for older workers include outdated and irrelevant skills that can easily give away their age. Include skills, programs, and certifications that are relevant in today’s job market or required for the position you’re targeting. “Typing,” “Microsoft Word,” and “Google” don’t belong on your resume for an older worker or on your cover letter either.

4. Highlight your skills

No list of top resume tips for older workers would be complete without mentioning skills. Many older workers are reluctant to boast about what they excel at, but this is the one place where you can. Your resume for an older worker should highlight your qualifications as much as possible, and skills are an important part of that process. Just be sure to give a place of prominence to your technology skills as well.

Also, remember that most companies nowadays use an ATS (Applicant Tracking System) to automatically screen your resume. These applicant tracking systems automatically screen resumes to see if you’re a good match for the position. An average of 75% of candidates are rejected by ATS and, most of the time, the candidate is qualified; it’s just that their resume isn’t optimized.

Make sure that you use a standard resume format so that the ATS can easily scan your resume for an older worker. You should also include keywords (i.e., skills ) that are relevant to the position. Check out the job description and be guided by what’s on there.

5. Include a LinkedIn URL

The inclusion of a LinkedIn URL also has a place in any list of resume tips for older workers. If you don’t have a LinkedIn page by now, it’s definitely worth getting one. 

This is especially true if you’re looking for a role, as the connections that can be made there are so worth it--for extending your network and for giving you a better chance of finding that perfect position. Be sure to include a link to that page within your contact details on your resume for an older worker. Having a LinkedIn link on there also helps with your ATS score.

6. Use an updated word processor

Since many companies want to see electronic copies of resumes, your word-processing software deserves some attention as well. If you’re using an outdated version of Microsoft Word, upgrade it.

And if you’re using any other type of word processing software, consider switching to Word. It’s pretty much the gold standard for resumes for older workers and others these days.

7. Customize every time you apply

There’s no one-size-fits-all in the resume world, so don’t rely on one basic resume, hoping that it will cover all roles. It won’t. When it comes to tips for resumes for older workers, this one is critical.

Every resume that you submit must be tailored to match the desired position. That means using keywords from the job posting and narrowing down experience and skills to ensure that they’re relevant. The days of using the same resume for every application are a thing of the past.

Resume example for older workers:

Sometimes, it helps to see something to get a real idea of what to do. Notice in the following example how the additional professional experience is listed below without dates--strategic!

The good news is that these tips for resumes for older workers can help you avoid bias and give you a better shot at landing an interview. That’s the best way to ensure yourself a fair chance of convincing an employer or hiring manager that you’re the right candidate for the job.

Recommended reading:

9 Tips to Avoid Age Discrimination on Your Resume

 How Long Your Resume Should Be in 2023 (Expert Advice)

Best Email Subject Lines When Sending a Resume (With Examples)

Elizabeth Openshaw, Editor & Content Writer, Elizabeth Openshaw, Editor & Content Writer

Elizabeth Openshaw is an Elite CV Consultant with over 12 years of experience based in Brighton, UK, with an English degree and an addiction to Wordle! She is a former Journalist of 17 years with the claim to fame that she interviewed three times Grand Slam winner and former World No.1 tennis player, Andy Murray, when he was just 14 years old. You can connect with her at Elizabeth Openshaw | LinkedIn .

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How To Write a Resume if You’re an Older Worker

We'll cover how to avoid age discrimination, deal with career breaks and write your resume. Downloadable templates included.

3 years ago   •   9 min read

Like anything in life, there’s no one size fits all solution to writing a resume. This means that a lot of tips geared toward first-time job seekers can leave older employees with even more questions. Like: Do I really need an education section if I graduated a few decades ago? How am I supposed to fit thirty years’ experience on a one-page resume? And how I make myself appear younger on a resume to combat potential discrimination?

We'll cover those questions and more, but first, here are the most essential tips for writing a resume as an older worker.

Tips for writing a resume as an older worker

• Use a modern resume format or template
• Leave dates off your resume (including your graduation date, age, and date of birth)
• Don't list experience older than 10-15 years
• Customize your resume by tailoring your work experience and adding keywords
• Revamp your skills section to remove outdated skills and include new technologies

Highlight recent training

• Address any career breaks (including retirement)
• Emphasize your experience — it's a strength, not a weakness!

How to format your resume as an older worker

If you've been in the workforce — or out of it — for a long time, it may have been a while since you last updated your resume. If there's a chance yours is looking a little dated, here's how to quickly modernize your resume:

• Choose a clean, modern font like Arial, Georgia, or Helvetica
• Forget outdated style rules like using paragraph indents or double spaces after a full stop
• Stick to standard formatting, including default margins and spacing
• Upgrade to a newer version of Microsoft Word of switch to Google Docs
• Skip the hassle and download an ATS resume template

Leave unnecessary dates off your resume

We’d love to tell you not to worry about age discrimination, but unfortunately, it does happen. The best way to avoid it? Leave dates off your resume.

We’re not talking about dates of employment — those should always stay. On the other hand, if you graduated more than a decade ago, it’s perfectly fine to leave off your graduation date. And never directly list your age or date of birth on your resume — in fact, the fewer personal details you list, the better.

Only include your most recent and relevant experience

Here's a little-known tip: You don’t need to list every job you’ve ever held on your resume . In fact, if you entered the workforce 20+ years ago or have changed careers, you definitely shouldn’t.

Stick to jobs that demonstrate skills and accomplishments that are relevant to the position you’re applying for — 10-15 years of work experience is plenty, unless you’re applying for a senior-level position that explicitly requires longer.

Optimize your resume

If it’s been a while since you last applied for a job, you may not have had to deal with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). ATS are automated software that screen out applicants who don’t meet basic requirements by searching for set words or phrases and are used by an estimated two-thirds of companies.

What does this mean for you?

In simple terms, make sure the software can read your resume by including relevant keywords, avoiding images and decorate fonts, and uploading your resume as a pdf.

Embrace new skills and technology

The biggest concern hiring managers are likely to have is whether your skills are up to date. You can allay these concerns by listing technical skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Not sure exactly which skills belong on your resume?

• Check the job description for "must have" skills
• Use our skills and keywords finder to search for relevant skills in your role or industry
• Prioritize new or emerging technologies, like Software as a Service (SaaS) or Slack — especially if you’re working remotely.

If you need help finding new technology and hard skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for, use the tool below to get a list of relevant ones.

Another way to prevent your skills from getting rusty is to freshen them up with a short course or relevant certification. Search for reputable providers or well-known qualifications, especially if you’re looking for online courses.

Depending on how essential the qualification is to the position you’re applying for, you can list it at the top of your resume in your education section or resume summary, or at the bottom with your skills and additional information.

Address career breaks

Returning to the workforce after some time off — or even coming back from retirement? The good news is that gaps on a resume aren't as big a deal as they used to be.

The bad news is that you do still need to address it. The best place to do this is in your cover letter. Give a brief explanation of what you were doing (like raising children, traveling, or caring for a family member) and reiterate your enthusiasm for returning to work.

You can also deal with career gaps directly in the work experience section of your resume with a simple heading like “career hiatus” or "other experience," especially if you've used your time to volunteer or take on a personal project.

If you’re an older worker wondering what else, like age or graduation dates, should or shouldn’t be included in your resume, upload it to the tool below — it’ll perform a quick scan and let you know what to remove or add into your resume.

Leverage your experience

Older job seekers have a lot of advantages over those who are newer to the workforce, not least of which is a bigger network. Whether you’re returning to work after some time off, changing careers , or looking to move on after a long stint at the same company, it’s time to reach out to ex-colleagues and other professional contacts. Ask your network for potential job leads, advice, and connections within their company or industry — anything that can give you an edge over your younger competition.

Resume examples for older workers

Ready to start updating your resume? Keep scrolling for resume templates you can use if you're:

• An experienced worker seeking a high-level role
• Changing careers
• Returning from retirement or another career break

If you’re an experienced hire seeking a senior-level position

This is where your years of experience shine! Focus on your ability to lead a team , work in a high-stakes or high-pressure environment, and deliver results that affect the company’s bottom line.

In this template, we include only relevant experience — just the last 10-15 years is more than sufficient. We've left off older educational experience pre-MBA.

Download this template: Google Docs | PDF

If you’re changing careers

It might feel weird starting from scratch, but you can still include any skills or accomplishments from previous roles that are relevant to your new industry or role. You don’t need to include every job you’ve ever held, but do focus on transferable skills and accomplishments that are relevant to the new position.

Download this template: Google Docs

If you’re returning after a career break

You don't need to explicitly say that you're ending your retirement or coming back to work after raising children , but you should include some explanation of what you've been doing with your time away from your career.

This resume template highlights the career break in an 'Other Experience' section, which is ideal for an older worker who's returning back to the workforce.

Common misconceptions about resumes for older workers to avoid

False: a fancy resume will make you appear younger.

Fancy resume formats aren’t impressive, and they’re definitely not going to make you appear younger or more in touch. On the contrary, they’re hard to read and demonstrate a lack of professionalism. Stick to a simple, standard resume format, like our ATS-ready resume templates .

FALSE: Your resume needs to include every job you’ve ever held

Your resume should be a brief summary of your most relevant skills and experience, not an exhaustive list of your entire professional history . Leave off any experience that’s much older or no longer relevant.

FALSE: You should include a resume objective

Resume objectives are outdated. They’re also particularly unnecessary if you have any kind of professional experience. If you’re changing careers or want to highlight key skills and experience upfront, a resume summary is a much better option.

FALSE: You should list familiarity with older technology

Including outdated skills on your resume won’t do anything but frame you as out of touch with current workplace norms. Unless you’re applying for a job as a fax machine technician or COBOL developer, leave proficiency with older technologies and programming languages off your resume.

FALSE:  If you have a lot of experience, you need an extra long resume

For older workers with more experience, a two-page resume is completely fine . There’s no need to try to condense 30+ years of experience onto a single page, especially if it’s all still relevant.

If you spent a long time away from the workforce — for example, because you were raising children or are changing careers — you may only need a one-page resume. Leaving off older experience altogether might be better if it avoids raising questions about long career gaps.

FALSE: It's okay to lie about your age on a resume

Never lie on your resume , even as something as seemingly inconsequential as your age. Omission is different from lying — it’s fine to leave dates of graduation off your resume, for example — but even a small lie can be grounds for immediate rejection.

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Resume for Older Workers – How To Write a Resume for 25+ Years of Experience

In This Guide:

Why is a resume important for older workers, how to get the best out of your resume for older workers.

You are an older professional, who would like to re-enter the workforce? Or maybe you are trying to make a career change? Either way, you are probably facing one big issue.

Although by law, employers are forbidden from taking age into account when it comes to job positions, age discrimination is still a common issue. There are a couple of steps that you can take to prevent your age from being an obstacle.

In this article, we are going to explore the following topics:

If you feel rusty about the basics of your resume, check out how to make your resume stand out . But if you are ready to build a kickass resume as an older worker, stick around.

A resume specifically tailored to showcase the experience of older workers is important because no matter what job you apply for, you will probably be competing with lots of other candidates of all ages.

But you have a long work history and skills , crafted and perfected through lots of years of experience. That should be more than enough to stand out, right?

Well, often that’s not the case. Furthermore, frequently your lengthy experience and skills have a negative effect. That’s because most recruiters are looking for compact, one-page resumes that focus on impact and productivity, not long history of employment.

It is common for potential employers to perceive your long work experience as a sign that you would not be familiar with the new technologies, trends, and strategies. Another possible case is for them to think that they could not afford a candidate with so much experience, as there would be high salary expectations.

There are lots of other scenarios as well. That’s the reason why you need to craft your resume in a new way. A well-written resume for older workers can demonstrate all your valuable experience and skills, but also minimizes any risks of age discrimination.

If you do it right, you greatly improve your chances of getting that interview.

Now that you understand the importance of your resume for older workers, it is time to get to work. There are quite a few important aspects of your resume that would need some attention.

We got you covered. Let’s go through them, one by one.

Choose the right resume format

When hiring managers see your resume, they would mainly focus on your work experience and skills.

So make sure you choose a resume format that showcases your most relevant qualifications.

There are three main resume formats for you to pick from.

Reverse chronological resume format

The Reverse Chronological Resume Format is the most common out there. That’s because it is suitable for pretty much every job position.

This format is mostly career-oriented – it lists your work history in order, as the most recent position would be at the top.

It is the ideal format for people with lots of work experience, relevant to the job position they are applying for. If you feel like this is the Resume Format for you, go read our in-depth article about it – Reverse Chronological Resume Format .

If not, we have two more for you.

Functional resume format

Your second alternative is pretty much the opposite of the Reverse Chronological Resume Format. The Functional Resume Format is also known as the Skill-Based Resume Format.

And yes, you guessed correctly, it focuses mainly on your skills . It is the perfect choice for you if you are looking for your first job or career change, or if you are trying to steer away the employer’s focus from a gap in your employment history.

The great thing about the functional resume format is that it groups your skills in categories and presents them in a great and easy-to-read format. If we’ve got what you need with this Resume Format, learn more about it here – Functional Resume Format .

If that’s not what you need either, we’ve got one last option for you.

Hybrid resume format

If neither the Reverse Chronological Resume Format, nor the Functional Resume Format feel quite right, we’ve got what you need. The Hybrid Resume Format is the perfect combination of the two formats listed above.

It takes all the best features from both formats. It includes both Reverse Chronological Work History, and a highly detailed Skills Section.

It’s mostly used for job positions that require expertise in a variety of fields, and you want to show that you are the right person for the job.

So which format should you choose?

Well, it is entirely up to you. A reverse chronological resume would be best fit if you are trying to show your career progression.

But that is not always what you would want. If you have employment gaps, or you are transitioning into a new field of work, a functional resume might feel like a better fit.

And there is always the hybrid resume that you can use to combine the best features of the other two resume formats. No matter what resume format you choose, your resume should absolutely have:

• Professional summary
• Work experience section
• Skills section
• Education section

Don’t use outdated formatting

Your resume formatting can reveal your age too early in the hiring process. That’s why you should modernize your resume formatting.

There are just a few old habits that you need to ditch, and you should be good to go.

First, make sure you skip the Microsoft Word and use a 21-century resume builder that will take care of the formatting, design, and any potential typos. By doing that, you can ensure that your margins and spacing would be just right by default.

Second, make sure you don’t use an outdated font . Times New Roman used to be widely used, but there has been a long time since then. To make your resume look modern, use a font like Calibri, Cambria, or Verdana.

Last, but not least, don’t insert double-spacing after periods . Doing that became obsolete in the 1970s with monospaced fonts.

Update your contact information

Your contact information should always be up-to-date. And, as an older worker, you wouldn’t want your contact information to give out your age.

Make sure you exclude any outdated technologies like fax or a landline number. What you need instead is a cell phone number. And make sure you don’t specify it is a cell.

But in modern times, the initial communication with the hiring manager will likely not be over the phone. It is widely preferred to start communication via email.

For that purpose, you should also choose an up-to-date technology. Your old email address in Yahoo or AOL might give out your age. Make sure you sign up for a free Gmail account. It is not that new, but it is pretty much email standard.

Last, but not least, you would want to show right from the start that you are really up-to-date with technology. Join LinkedIn ––a social media specifically tailored for professionals. So if you don’t have an account yet, make sure you create one, update it with all your relevant information and include it in your contact information.

Write a professional summary

Your professional summary is your chance to sell yourself to your potential employer. And that is exactly what you would want to do.

The professional summary is a 3-4 sentence statement that presents your experience, skills and career goals. It should present you in the best possible light and keep the hiring manager intrigued all the way through.

To do so without the danger of age discrimination, you need to carefully choose your words. If you have 25 years of experience, you would want to present that as “over 10 years of experience”. It’s still truthful, but you avoid the chance of age discrimination.

Skip your graduation dates

No matter how well you hide your age on your resume, it is all in vain if you list your graduation date in your education section.

What you need there is just your degrees and the institution you got them from, no dates. Make sure you list your highest degree first, and stick to associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.

However, if you recently completed a new degree in your education, you can list the date, as it shows your education is current.

Highlight your tech skills

In modern times, almost every job out there requires some technical skills. So it is crucial to show that your tech skillset is not outdated.

Scan the job listing for any technologies that your potential employer is looking for, and list all that you are familiar with. Make sure you also provide some examples to prove that you really know what that technology is all about.

Another great thing you can do here is show your potential employer that you are comfortable learning new technologies. Employers love employees that are constantly improving themselves.

Don't list your entire work history

When creating your resume for older workers, you wouldn’t want to list every job you have ever had. Your work experience section should be limited to the last 10 to 15 years.

Make sure whatever you list from that time is relevant to the job position you are applying for. However, if you find that your relevant experience is beyond these 15 years, there is a way around it.

In that case, you can include that work experience, but make sure you don’t list any dates. Also, if you go for older work experience on your resume, make sure you are really up-to-date with all technologies and trends in the field.

Looking for a job, or making a career change later in life is a great way to start fresh. The most important things you have to remember are:

• Show that you’re up to date with everything that’s going on in today’s professional work (make a LinkedIn, a Gmail account, do a nice-looking resume with a resume builder).
• Skip on any dates that don’t add more value to your resume (year of graduation).
• Focus on impact and relevancy rather than more job positions.

And voila! You’re ready to tackle the next challenge of your life!

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4 Smart Moves to Age-Proof Your Resume as an Older Worker

With age comes wisdom and experience, but when you’re job hunting, being an older worker doesn’t always feel like an advantage. In fact, those who’ve been working for decades are often perceived as too expensive, lacking in the latest tech skills, or generally not as up-to-date as their younger counterparts. Though it’s illegal to discriminate based on age, it does happen.

“Ageism is an unfortunate and very real part of the job search for older workers, and for some it can start to creep into their experience as early as in their 40s,” notes Brie Reynolds, career development manager and resume writer at FlexJobs. “Because the resume is one of the first ways potential employers will learn about you, it's really important to make sure your resume guards against ageism as much as possible.”

If you’re an older worker about to embark on a job hunt or you simply want to update your resume in case a new opportunity arises, you may be wondering which information to include and what might sabotage your search. These expert tips can help you create a resume that will get you noticed for all the right reasons.

1. Focus on the Recent and Relevant

When you’ve been in the workforce for decades, you have a wealth of experience. But including it all in one document can be a liability rather than an asset if it overwhelms the reader—and makes them focus on your age rather than your fit for the job. While it’s tempting to showcase all you’ve done and achieved, it’s more effective to trim your resume down to the roles that best align with the specific position you’re seeking.

Resumes don’t need to be a single page . That said, your resume isn’t a memoir, says Gary Susman, an experienced digital marketer who recently landed a director position after a lengthy job search. “It’s just a marketing tool whose sole purpose is to land you an interview,” he says. “It doesn’t have to be exhaustive and comprehensive. It just has to show that you can solve the problem your hiring manager is hiring someone to solve.”

For example, while you may have fond memories of your time in an entry-level sales position 20 years ago, that role isn’t relevant if you’re pursuing an opening for a director of information technology.

Employers are most interested in how your recent work ties back to the job for which you’re applying rather than your experience from 15 or more years ago, according to Amanda Augustine, certified professional career coach and resume writer at TopResume . “Dedicate more resume space to detailing the positions you’ve held over the past 10 to 15 years that are related to your current job goals,” she advises. Leave off anything further back, unless it’s absolutely critical.

By including too much detail, older workers can also appear overqualified, says Nancy Von Horn, a career coach at Korn Ferry Advance. Rather than inundate a hiring manager with extraneous information, focus on the talents that truly set you apart and coincide with those the company is seeking.

“What do they need to know so you look like a great fit with the skills to do the job you are applying to?" says Von Horn, who suggests highlighting tech skills and listing ways you’ve stayed current in your chosen industry (such as trainings you’ve pursued and industry groups you’ve joined). “Remember, tailor your resume each time.”

2. Don’t Date Yourself

Ageism isn't always “a conscious effort,” says Reynolds. While they may not realize they're doing it, hiring managers can draw conclusions about an applicant's age based on all sorts of small clues. True or not, these inferences can trigger unconscious biases that affect your chance of getting hired.

Susman explains that when he included his number of years of experience, hiring managers told him he was “too qualified,” which he interpreted to mean they couldn’t afford to pay someone his age what his skills and experience were worth. He had better luck when he focused on more recent experience and made his age less obvious.

While you’ll have to provide dates in your work experience section, you can age-proof your resume by removing older roles as well as dates related to education and certifications if they fall outside that 15-year window, recommends Augustine. You can still name the institution you attended and the degree you earned, but you don’t need to include the year you graduated.

And “if you've earned any professional certifications, don't list the year that the certification was earned; but do provide each certification's expiration date,” says Timothy G. Wiedman, a retired professor of management and human resources.

While including a role you held or a diploma you earned two decades ago are obvious signs that you’re an older worker, there are other subtle clues that may reveal your age. Older professionals are sometimes thought of as lacking technological savvy. Don’t give employers a reason to believe you fit this stereotype by including, for example, an outdated email address.

“I made sure there was no indication of my age on my resume,” Susman says. “No mention of my graduation year, no old-school email address—if you have an AOL, Yahoo, or Hotmail address, ditch it and open a Gmail account.”

Once you’ve gotten that new email address, add it to the top of your resume, along with your mobile phone number and the URL to your LinkedIn profile, Augustine says. You can add your city and state, but you no longer need to include your full physical address. Removing it helps your resume look updated (and also guards you against your home address being made public wherever you post your resume).

Susman also recommends removing all mention of outdated or standard software knowledge. In other words, there’s no need to brag about your typing speed or your Typepad prowess. If, however, the position you’re going after requires extensive knowledge of particular software, technologies, or programming languages and you have those skills, definitely include them on your resume.

“By removing older dates, making sure your format is up-to-date, using a contemporary email service, and doing other small things, you can stop people from drawing the wrong conclusions about you when they read your resume,” Reynolds says.

3. Lean Into Your Resume Gap

Whereas some older workers have to overcome the perception that they have “too much experience,” others need to explain a gap in their resume. If you stepped out of the workforce to raise children or care for parents or have been unemployed due to layoffs, you may be wondering how to handle it on your resume.

Fortunately, hiring managers are familiar with resume gaps, so this isn’t necessarily a cause for alarm or worry. If you’ve been out of work for a while, don’t try to hide it. Be honest and be prepared to address your resume gap positively and professionally if you land an interview.

To get that interview, list on your resume the years you held each position before you left the workforce. Also, be sure to include volunteer and community engagement work you may have done in the meantime. If you were on a board of directors or an advisory board, add that, along with officer roles with responsibilities in national organizations and associations, co-op boards, parent-teacher organizations, and so on. List any achievements or skills you attained in those roles that meet the requirements of the job for which you’re applying.

“On a resume, volunteer experience is typically included after professional history or work experience,” says Heather Rothbauer-Wanish, author of Getting Back in the Game: How to Build Your Resume After Taking a Break . In most cases, volunteer experience is considered an addition to the resume, rather than a necessary component, she says, and would go in a separate section lower down. But if you have a resume gap that you’re hoping to fill and have relevant, skill-based volunteer work, you can include it in the professional experience section.

4. Highlight Your Achievements

While older workers may feel intimidated about the job search process, you have a credible ace in the hole that you can confidently present: data-based examples of how you've delivered impressive benefits and solutions for your employers over the span of the careers.

With that in mind, rethink outdated, dull phrasing, such as “responsible for,” and ditch bullet points that describe duties in favor of action statements that focus on achievements. “Discuss projects or departments where you worked in terms of the results you helped to accomplish,” says Sandi Webster, co-founder and Chief Learning Officer at Pandi Media, which focuses on empowering women through workshops, content, and seminars.

For example, instead of:

• Responsible for marketing materials and event promotion
• Responsible for keeping records to track contractor costs

You’d write:

• Created marketing materials and promoted events through social media, boosting attendance by 80% over a six-month period
• Developed and implemented a new record-keeping system, saving the company $12,000 per year in contractor costs

You might also consider including a summary statement at the top of your resume that quickly outlines what you have to offer based on your achievements to date.

It all goes back to crafting a document that sells what you can do for the organization if hired to fill the open role. By focusing on your relevant past accomplishments—of which you have many by this point in your career—you’re showing the recruiter or hiring manager how successful you could be if hired.

"It is easy to feel overwhelmed and insecure about a lot of things during a job search, your age being one of them, but don’t let this bog you down,” says Von Horn. It might take just a few strategic changes to your resume to get your foot in the door. And remember, Van Horn adds, that “people of all ages and with all kinds of obstacles get employed, so stay the course, stay positive.”

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Age isn't always an advantage when you're job searching, especially in a competitive job market. Hiring managers can view older workers as more expensive to hire, as having outdated experience or too much experience, or as not being current with today's technology and workplaces—even though it is  illegal to discriminate based on age .

One way to overcome the perception that your age is an issue is to "age-proof" and carefully edit your resume. Your resume isn’t  your CV , so it doesn’t need to include everything you’ve ever done.

Learn what to include on your resume, what to leave off, how to choose the best resume format, review examples and get a resume template for older job seekers.

Limiting what you include on your resume, from a chronological perspective, can help job seekers avoid the stigma of being considered "too old" by a prospective employer.

Also, showing that you're up to speed with the latest technology and skills needed for your profession will help maximize your chances of getting selected for an interview. The following resume writing tips for older job seekers will help market your candidacy and showcase your skills to employers without highlighting your age.

Consider a Functional or Combination Resume.  If you’re currently using a  chronological resume , which lists your experience in date order, it may be time to switch to a different format that doesn’t focus on the years.

Consider using a  functional resume , which focuses on your skills and experience and lists your accomplishments at the top of your resume. Alternatively, you could use a  combination resume , which features both skills and your work history (just don’t go back more than 10 or 15 years).

Limit Your Related Experience.  Limit the related experience (related to the job you are applying for) you  include on your resume to 10 to 15 years , leaving older jobs off your resume entirely.

Another option is to include the older jobs in a separate section of your resume, but don’t list the dates when you worked.

Drop Your Other Experience.  You want to keep your resume experience relevant for the job you’re hoping to land, and unrelated experience is probably just not necessary. Leave all that experience off your resume or list it without dates in a category labeled “Other Experience” or “Additional Experience.”

Don't Include Education / Training Dates.  Don't include high school and college graduation dates or dates for any other courses you took, or professional development classes that were in the past. If you have a college degree, don't list your high school graduation date on your resume.

Be Careful About Years.  Don't list the length of experience you have in your  resume objective , if you use one. For example, it's not advantageous to say you have 20 or 30 years of experience in anything. It’ll flag you as older, and your resume may just get tossed out.

The best way to show that you are a seasoned professional is to say that you have “10+ years’ experience” in your field. This isn’t a lie, and it allows you to capitalize upon your value as an employee with significant experience.

How to Show How You're Qualified

Target Your Resume.  Take the time to write a  targeted resume  that’s customized so that it specifically highlights the experience you have that’s relevant to the specific job opening you’re applying for. The same targeted resume won’t work for every job, and you’ll need a different one for each job opening.

Highlight Your Skills.  All your years of experience probably means you’ve built up an impressive skill set. Shine a light on the skills that are most valuable and that show you’re comfortable with contemporary technology. Promote the fact that you're up-to-date with current technology by including the latest programs and apps you know how to use and leaving off out-of-date technology.

Show You're Connected.  Include a  link to your LinkedIn profile on your resume . This will show hiring managers you're engaged in current means of communicating and networking. Depending on your usage, you may want to list your social media handles as well, such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram—but only if they’re up to professional scrutiny.

Polish Your Resume.  Presentation matters. Make sure your resume is polished and well presented. You don't want your resume to look old-fashioned. Hire a resume writer or browse the various resume sites to find the latest templates that will give your resume a fresh look.

Be Ready to Email or Upload Your Resume

Be Prepared to Email Your Resume.  Keep in mind that most resumes are emailed or uploaded to a company website or job site to apply for jobs. Email a copy of your resume to yourself to be sure the formatting doesn't get lost during transmission (sending your resume as a PDF is probably best). Review these email etiquette guidelines to be sure you're following the right protocol for  emailing your resume .

Download the resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word) or see below for a text version to get started on creating your own resume.

The Balance

Resume Example (Text Version)

Edward Elder 123 Old Growth Road Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 (123) 456-7890 eelder@email.com www.linked.com/in/edwardelder

SALES PROFESSIONAL

Producing consistent YOY growth through strategic goal-setting and sales floor management.

Charismatic and focused in onboarding, developing, and coaching highly productive retail sales teams. Skillfully train sales associates in winning customer engagement, merchandising, and inventory control methods.    

Analytical and cost-conscious in establishing pricing strategies, preventing shrink, and championing effective customer retention programs. Lead by example to ensure provision of best-in-class customer service.  

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

HOMEWORKS CENTRAL, Mt. Vernon, Washington

SALES MANAGER (February 2016 – Present)

Meticulously perform scope of retail management responsibilities including team building, merchandising, inventory control, scheduling, and sales training and development for established home improvement store. 

Notable accomplishments:

• Redesigned store plan-o-grams that improved cross-sales by 72% and time-in-store by 81%.
• Implemented staff recognition and incentive programs that heightened employee retention to 95%.
• Introduced first-ever succession planning process that ensured seamless transition of sales associates to positions of increased authority as older personnel retired, preventing the need to hire from outside.

CARS R US , Ferndale, Washington

SALES MANAGER (November 2008 – January 2016)

Trained and mentored ~35 Sales Executives in customer service and sales negotiation / closing skills. Forecasted monthly sales expenses, conveyed sales goals, and designed incentive programs.  

• Pioneered dealership’s launch of online sales arm, increasing lead percentage by 63% .
• Increased overall market share by more than 15% YOY throughout tenure.
• Promoted to management from original role as Sales Representative.  ~ Additional experience includes roles as a Sales Executive for Retro Auto (Yakima, Washington) and as a Sales Representative for Home Hardware Sales (Yakima, Washington). ~

EDUCATION & CREDENTIALS

EASTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY , Cheney, Washington 

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (Emphasis: Marketing)

Information Technology Skills: Microsoft Office Suite • POS systems • Salesforce

Review more resume samples for a variety of circumstances and get templates you can use to write your own resume.

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Home » Career Advice » Resume Tips » How to Write a Resume If You’re an Older Worker

How to Write a Resume If You’re an Older Worker

Last Updated on June 20, 2024 by Career Reload

In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving job market, older workers often encounter unique challenges when seeking employment opportunities. While experience and wisdom can be invaluable assets, they may sometimes be overshadowed by perceived biases or misconceptions about age. However, by crafting a strong and compelling resume, older workers can effectively showcase their skills, expertise, and adaptability, ensuring they stand out in a competitive landscape.

The importance of a well-crafted resume cannot be overstated, regardless of one’s age. A resume serves as a personal marketing tool, providing a snapshot of an individual’s professional history, qualifications, and achievements. It is the first impression that potential employers have of a candidate, and it plays a critical role in determining whether an older worker gets invited for an interview.

Nevertheless, older workers face specific hurdles in the job market. Age discrimination, unconscious bias, and stereotypes can sometimes hinder their chances of securing desirable positions. Hiring managers may wrongly assume that older candidates are resistant to change, technologically challenged, or lacking the energy and drive of their younger counterparts. However, these assumptions are often unfounded, and older workers can overcome such biases by presenting themselves effectively through a well-crafted resume.

This article will delve into the strategies and best practices for writing a resume tailored to the needs and expectations of older workers. It will provide guidance on highlighting relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments while addressing potential concerns and showcasing adaptability. By following the tips and advice offered here, older workers can increase their chances of securing meaningful employment opportunities and demonstrate their value in today’s dynamic workforce.

Highlighting your experience

To craft the best resume for older workers, strategically highlighting your experience becomes paramount in demonstrating your value to potential employers. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Prioritize recent and relevant experience

Begin by placing a strong emphasis on your most recent and relevant work history. Directly align your resume with the job you’re applying for, emphasizing positions, achievements, and responsibilities that directly relate to the desired role. By focusing on recent experiences, you convey that you are up-to-date with industry trends and possess the relevant skills necessary for the job.

Trim older experience

While your entire professional history may be filled with accomplishments, it is advisable to limit the inclusion of experience to the past 10-15 years. This timeframe ensures that you present a concise and focused snapshot of your recent career trajectory. Be selective in including positions that align with your current career goals or highlight transferable skills that are still relevant to the job you’re seeking.

To combat potential age bias, it is wise to leave unnecessary dates off your resume. This includes omitting your graduation date, age, or date of birth. Instead, focus on highlighting the skills, achievements, and qualifications you bring to the table. By removing specific dates, you shift the attention toward your abilities and expertise, enabling a more objective evaluation of your candidacy.

Emphasize achievements

Rather than solely listing job duties, give prominence to the achievements and results you’ve accomplished throughout your career. Highlight specific projects, initiatives, or challenges you’ve successfully tackled, and whenever possible, quantify your contributions. By showcasing tangible outcomes, you demonstrate your ability to make a meaningful impact, regardless of age.

Incorporate relevant skills

As the job market continues to evolve, so do the required skills. Ensure that you prominently feature the skills most relevant to the position you’re applying for. This can include technical proficiencies, industry-specific knowledge, or transferable skills. By emphasizing your current skill set, you showcase your ability to adapt and contribute effectively in today’s dynamic work environment.

Addressing employment gaps

One common concern when crafting an older worker resume is how to effectively address employment gaps . Whether you took a career break, experienced a period of unemployment, or chose to retire temporarily, it’s crucial to handle these gaps strategically to showcase your skills and experience. Here are some strategies to address and highlight employment gaps on your resume:

Be transparent and honest

When it comes to addressing employment gaps, honesty is key. Rather than trying to hide or mask the gaps, it’s best to be transparent about the reasons for the break. Whether you took time off for personal reasons, caregiving responsibilities, further education, or even a sabbatical, briefly mention the nature of the gap in your resume or cover letter. By providing an honest explanation, you can present yourself as a candidate with a diverse range of experiences and demonstrate your ability to adapt and prioritize responsibilities.

Highlight relevant activities

Even if you were not engaged in full-time employment during the gap, it’s essential to highlight any relevant activities you pursued. Consider activities such as volunteer work, freelance projects, consulting assignments, or part-time roles that allowed you to utilize your skills and stay engaged in your field. By including these experiences on your resume, you demonstrate that you remained active and continued to develop your expertise during the gap. Be sure to describe the specific responsibilities and achievements associated with these activities to highlight your contributions.

Focus on transferable skills

During career breaks or retirement, you may have acquired valuable skills or experiences that are transferable to your desired role. These skills could include leadership abilities, project management expertise, problem-solving capabilities, or even communication and collaboration skills gained through community involvement. Highlight these transferable skills in a dedicated skills section on your resume or weave them into your work experience descriptions. By showcasing your diverse skill set, you provide evidence of your ability to contribute effectively in a professional setting.

Addressing retirement on your resume requires careful consideration. If you chose to retire but are now looking to reenter the workforce, it’s essential to position your retirement as a planned and purposeful decision. Emphasize any post-retirement activities that demonstrate your continued passion for your field, such as part-time work, consulting, or ongoing professional development. Additionally, highlight any skills or knowledge gained during retirement that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

Updating your skills

As an older worker, it’s important to demonstrate your adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies and advancements in your field. One effective way to showcase your commitment to staying current is by revamping the skills section in your resume. By removing outdated skills and incorporating new technologies, you can position yourself as a tech-savvy professional who is ready to thrive in today’s digital landscape.

Assess and remove outdated skills

Start by reviewing your skills section and identifying any outdated or obsolete skills. Skills that are no longer in demand or relevant to your target industry can be omitted from your resume. This ensures that you are focusing on the skills that are most valuable and sought after in the current job market.

Emphasize technological proficiency

In today’s technology-driven world, highlighting your proficiency in relevant software, tools, and digital platforms is crucial. Research the skills that are in high demand in your industry and consider acquiring training or certifications in those areas. Include these updated skills prominently in your resume, as they demonstrate your ability to adapt to technological advancements.

Showcase recent training and professional development

Employers value candidates who are committed to continuous learning and professional growth. If you have recently completed any training courses, certifications, or attended industry conferences, include them in your resume. This showcases your proactive approach to skill development and your dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends.

Incorporate keywords and phrases

When revamping your skills section, research the job descriptions of your target roles to identify specific keywords and phrases used by employers. Tailor your skills section to align with these keywords, as this can help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and increase your chances of being noticed by hiring managers.

The goal is to showcase your ability to adapt to new technologies and demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning. By revamping your skills section, you can present yourself as a well-rounded candidate who is ready to excel in today’s dynamic work environment.

Best resume templates for older workers

To attract positive attention and demonstrate your tech skills, it’s beneficial to give your resume a modern touch. Choosing the right resume template for older workers is essential for creating a professional and visually appealing document that effectively highlights your skills and experience as an older worker. While there are numerous templates available, certain designs and formats are particularly well-suited for older workers. Here are some of the best resumes for people over 50:

Classic and timeless ATS templates

Download ATS-friendly resume template

To make sure that you get past the ATS , you need to use an ATS-friendly resume template. Classic resume templates with a clean and simple design are an excellent choice for older worker resume. These templates typically feature a traditional layout with clear headings, bullet points, and ample white space. By opting for a classic ATS template, you can convey a sense of professionalism and expertise.

Modern chronological templates

Download modern resume template

For older workers in industries that value innovation and creativity, modern chronological resume templates can be a great fit. These templates often feature unique fonts, bold colors, and eye-catching design elements. While maintaining a professional appearance, they add a touch of modernity to your resume, demonstrating your adaptability and willingness to embrace contemporary trends.

Functional resume templates

Functional resumes focus on your skills and achievements rather than chronological work history. This format can be particularly beneficial for older workers who want to emphasize their transferable skills and accomplishments. Functional resume templates typically include sections dedicated to skills, achievements, and professional summary , allowing you to highlight your most relevant qualifications.

Combination resume templates

Combination resumes combine elements of both chronological and functional formats. They allow you to showcase your work history while emphasizing key skills and achievements. This type of template is ideal for older workers who want to highlight their extensive experience while also showcasing their skills and accomplishments in a targeted manner.

One-page resume templates

Download one-page resume template

A concise and well-structured one-page resume is often preferred by employers, as it provides a quick and focused overview of your qualifications. A one-page chronological resume is the best resume format for older workers who can effectively summarize their experience and skills without the need for excessive detail. These templates encourage clarity and ensure that the most relevant information stands out.

When choosing from free resume templates for Word , consider the industry and the specific job you’re applying for. Ensure that the template aligns with the overall tone and expectations of your target field. Ultimately, the chosen template should enhance the readability and professionalism of your resume, allowing your skills and experience to shine.

Showcase your online presence as an older worker

Including links to professional social media profiles or personal websites can demonstrate your engagement with modern communication and networking methods. These platforms can provide additional career details, resources, and recommendations from colleagues, managers, or clients. If you are comfortable using modern digital tools and platforms, consider exploring online job opportunities tailored to your skills and experience. Here are some effective strategies to showcase your online presence:

Create a professional LinkedIn profile

Establish a professional presence on popular networking platforms like LinkedIn. Create a detailed profile that highlights your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Use a high-quality profile picture and craft a compelling summary that showcases your expertise and career goals. Regularly update your profile and engage with relevant industry groups and discussions to expand your network.

Leverage other social media platforms

Utilize social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to showcase your professional interests and activities. Share industry news, articles, or relevant updates that highlight your engagement and knowledge. Ensure your social media profiles present a professional image and align with your career aspirations.

Build an online portfolio or blog

An online portfolio is an excellent way to showcase your work samples, projects, and achievements. Create a personal website or utilize platforms like Behance, GitHub, or WordPress to showcase your professional accomplishments. Include relevant projects, articles, case studies, and testimonials to provide tangible evidence of your expertise and capabilities.

By showcasing your online presence as an older worker, you demonstrate your relevance, expertise, and engagement in the digital age. This can significantly enhance your job search, expand your professional network, and open doors to new opportunities.

Crafting a resume when you are over 50 comes with its unique challenges, but by following the strategies and best practices outlined in this article, you can create a strong resume that highlights your skills, experience, and value. Remember to focus on your most recent and relevant experience, address employment gaps thoughtfully, update your skills to reflect current trends, and tailor your resume for each job application. Embrace modern resume templates for older workers and showcase your online presence to demonstrate your adaptability and engagement. With confidence and perseverance, you can overcome age-related biases and position yourself as a valuable candidate in the job market. Embrace your experience, highlight your strengths, and embark on your job search journey with optimism.

We’re a team of writers dedicated to providing insights and tips for navigating the professional world. With a collective wealth of experience across various industries and roles, our team understands the challenges and opportunities that come with seeking meaningful work and advancing your career. We help job seekers to better their careers by offering career advice & free resources. Download free Word resume templates and resume templates for Google Docs .

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Resume Sample: Older Job Seeker (50+) Looking Younger

• Post author By Erin Kennedy

This chronological resume is for Karen Coffey (not her real name), a 53-year-old job seeker who wants to continue her career in healthcare administration.

How old does she look to you, based on this resume?

The Details About This Resume Sample

At this point in her career, Karen is concerned about competing successfully against much younger job candidates, knowing that an employer would want someone who has lots of energy and state-of-the-art know-how in the ever-changing healthcare sector.

Karen knew she just needed to get through the door for a job interview, at which time she would be able to demonstrate that she has what it takes to do the job as well as a person 20-30 years her junior.

To get that interview, her resume needed to sell her achievements and experience, yet minimize a focus on her age.

She conducted some research to get an estimate of the average age for professionals holding similar positions to the one she’s shooting for.

• She used LinkedIn to get a sense of the demographics of the company she was applying to, and made sure she included a link to her own online profile on LinkedIn right on her resume.
• She Googled each company and studied its website to learn about the corporate culture.
• She asked for opinions within her professional network about what age was most prevalent in her line of work.
• She factored in her own observations about the age of fellow colleagues she met at industry conferences, networking events, and online job boards.

Based on her research, Karen knew that a potential hiring manager would probably be younger than she is and would be looking for an administrator who is in their early 30s. With this age in mind, Karen was able to create a resume where the focus was on achievements/experience from the last 10 or so years of her career.

She also made sure to minimize the focus on her early career experience by not including any information other than jobs/names of employers. In addition, she removed the years from her education information.

The employer will deduce that if Karen graduated college when she was 22, then put in 10 years of work experience, she might now be in her mid-30’s a perfect candidate for the job she’s applying for!

The Bottom Line on Resumes for Older Workers:

Notice that Karen didn’t lie on her resume. She simply gave the employer enough information to draw their own conclusion, without giving away her age.

  The Resume Samples for Karen (Someone Over 50):  

• Sample Formal Resume for an Older Job Seeker Looking Younger
• Sample Simplified ATS Resume for an Older Job Seeker Looks Younger

More About Looking Younger for Your Job Search

• Job Search Guide for Boomers and Over 50
• Over 50: 5 Ways You Look Out-of-Date in Your Job Search
• Over 50: Beating the “Too Old” Bias, Learning New Skills
• Over 50? Personal Branding Is for Boomers, Too
• Linkedin Profile Photos for Job Seekers Over 50
• Managing the Age Issue with Recruiters: Age as an Asset NOT a Liability

Erin Kennedy is a Master Career Director (MCD), Certified Master Resume Writer (MCRW), Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), and Certified Empowerment & Motivational Coach (CEMC). She has been helping clients since 1999. Erin is also the President of Professional Resume Services, Inc. . Visit her website and connect with Erin on LinkedIn and Twitter . More about this author …

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How to Age-Proof Your Résumé

These tips can help older job seekers highlight their skills, not their ages.

Amanda Augustine,

Searching for a new job is challenging, regardless of how old you are. However, if you are 50 or older, you may face some additional hurdles.

According to AARP Research , nearly two out of three workers age 50-plus  (62 percent) think older adults face discrimination in the workplace today based on age and 93 percent of them believe that age discrimination against older workers is common in the workplace today. Their concern is justified. Government data shows that age 55-plus job seekers typically face substantially longer periods of unemployment compared with those job seekers between 20 and 24.

If you are concerned about facing bias during the job search, don’t panic. There are many things you can do to showcase the skills and experience you’ve earned during your career. The following tips will help you age-proof your résumé to help you stand out from the competition and land the right job.

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1. Focus on your recent experience.

The further along you are in your career, the less relevant your earlier work experience becomes. Employers care most about your recent work that matters for the roles they’re filling, not your experience from 15 or more years ago. As a result, give more detail about the positions you’ve held in the past 10 to 15 years that are related to your current job search, and say less about your earliest jobs. 

2. Eliminate older dates.

Remove the dates related to work experience, education and certifications if they fall outside the 15-year window. While you may want to consolidate older work experience in a separate section or a “Career Note,” including the dates of employment is unnecessary. Similarly, it’s important to share your credentials on your résumé, but the employer doesn’t need to know you earned your MBA more than 17 years ago.

3. Limit your résumé to two pages.

Most recruiters spend less than  10 seconds reviewing a résumé  before deciding if the candidate should receive further consideration. With so little time to make the right impression, it’s important to streamline your résumé to two pages. Focus on using this space to highlight your recent work experience and accomplishments that best match your current career goals.

4. Avoid the “jack-of-all-trades” approach.

Although you may have held numerous roles throughout your career, your résumé shouldn’t be a laundry list of everything you have done. Focus on tailoring your résumé’s content to support your current career objective, rather than providing a generalized summary of your entire work history.

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5. Optimize your résumé with keywords.

Seventy-five percent of all online applications will never be seen by human eyes, thanks to the hiring bots, which are software programs known as an applicant tracking system (ATS). Their job is to collect, scan and rank an employer’s inbound applications. To improve your résumé’s chances of making it past this digital gatekeeper and on to a human for review, make sure your document includes the appropriate keywords. If a word or phrase repeatedly shows up in the job listings you’re interested in, incorporate these terms into your résumé. 

6. Upgrade your email address.

Older workers sometimes are seen as lacking technical savvy. Don’t give employers a reason to believe you might fit this stereotype. Ditch your old AOL or Hotmail email account for a free, professional-looking Gmail address that incorporates your name.

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7. List your mobile phone number.

If you’re still listing your landline number on your résumé, it’s time to update your contact information. Only list your cellphone number on your résumé so you can control the voicemail message, who answers important phone calls from recruiters, and when.

8. Join the LinkedIn bandwagon.

LinkedIn is a valuable platform  for connecting with others in your industry and uncovering new job opportunities. It’s also an important place to advertise your candidacy to prospective employers. In fact, a study by recruiting software provider Jobvite found that 93 percent of employers admit to reviewing candidates’ social network profiles — regardless of whether the candidates provided that information.

If you’ve avoided using LinkedIn in the past, now’s the time to create an online profile that supports your career goals. Then, customize your LinkedIn profile URL and add it to the top of your résumé to ensure recruiters find the correct profile for you.

9. Showcase your technical proficiencies.

The fact that you know how to use Microsoft Office is no longer noteworthy (unless your role requires advanced knowledge of Excel). Show employers that you’ve kept up with the latest tools and platforms related to your field. If you’re in a nontechnical profession, create a small section toward the bottom of your résumé that lists these proficiencies. If you realize there’s a skill or tool outside your wheelhouse that’s routinely appearing in the job descriptions you’re targeting, check out sites such as AARP Skills Builder for Work , edX, Coursera and Skillshare to find free or low-cost online courses.

10. Customize each online application.

Small tweaks to the content of your résumé can make a big difference in determining whether your online application reaches a human being for review. Before you submit another online application, re-evaluate your résumé based on the job posting. Then, make small edits to customize your résumé so that it clearly reflects your qualifications for this specific role. You also might consider using a service such as AARP Resume Advisor, which offers free résumé reviews, to make sure you’re showing why you are a good fit for the job.

Join today and enjoy all AARP has to offer — including the AARP Job Board, a job search tool for experienced workers, a free resume review, plus savings on resume writing packages and online learning courses to boost your skills.

11. Ditch the objective statement.

Avoid using a run-of-the-mill objective statement that’s full of fluff and focuses solely on your wants and needs. Instead, replace it with your “elevator pitch.” In a brief paragraph, known as a professional summary or executive summary, explain what you’re great at and most interested in, and how you can provide value to a prospective employer. In other words, summarize your job goals and qualifications for the reader.

12. Aim for visual balance.

If content is king in a résumé, then design is queen. How your information is formatted is just as important as the information itself. Focus on leveraging a combination of short blurbs and bullet points to make it easy for the reader to quickly scan your résumé and find the most important details that support your candidacy. 

13. Focus on achievements, not tasks.

At this point in your career, recruiters are less concerned with the tasks you’ve completed and more interested in learning what you’ve accomplished. Separate each job under your work history into a short blurb that describes your role and responsibilities. Then, add a set of bullet points to describe the results you’ve achieved and the major contributions you’ve made that have benefited the organization. By bulleting these details, you’re drawing readers’ eyes to the information they care most about: your qualifications. Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments to provide additional context for the recruiter. 

Editor’s Note: This article originally was published on January 23, 2019. It has been updated with more recent data about age discrimination in the workplace.

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Professional Resume Tips for Older Workers

12 expert resume tips for older job-seekers.

When updating their resumes, older job-seekers encounter two major challenges. First, they need to draw attention away from their age to avoid discrimination during their job search. And second, they should demonstrate they are as tech-savvy, energetic and open to new ways of doing things as younger employees.

Hence, all 50+ professionals who want to receive a job fast should reflect both points in their resumes. In this case, you need to downplay the age issue while focusing on what you can deliver if hired. The age is an asset, so today one of our online resume writers will give helpful advice. You’ll learn as follows:

✓ A step-by-step resume writing guide for older workers

✓ The most popular resume mistakes to avoid, and

✓ Job search tips for professionals in their 50s and 60s.

Get your resume improved by an expert

Want a perfect resume but have no time to write and rewrite it? We can help. The professional resume makers of Resumeperk.com have years of expertise in writing custom resumes that grab hiring managers’ attention. Your American or British writer will downplay an age issue, focusing on your amazing accomplishments and up-to-dated skills. We guarantee the professionalism of our writers , timely delivery and unlimited changes until you’re satisfied.

12 resume tips for older employees

Regardless of your industry and age, focus on the results and accomplishments. Career experts recommend that older job-seekers use these tips in resume writing:

1. Hide your graduation date

One of the most popular tricks when it comes to downplaying your age is removing the graduation date. Any other information about your resume stays unchanged. There’s an exception from this rule, though – if you went back to school five years ago or so to get an MBA or PhD, keep the date.

2. Limit work experience to the past 15 years

It’s great that you have over 20 years of experience under your belt. However, listing each and every position along with the description causes two resume issues. Firstly, it gives the employer clear evidence of your age. And secondly, if you’ve changed jobs every 2-3 years, your resume might take much longer than the recommended two pages.

The solution? Mention experience you’ve had in the past 15 years, or 5-6 positions if you’ve changed them frequently.

3. Group your early experience under a separate section

Let’s assume that your old experience is too important to be left out. For instance, you stood at the origins of a well-known tech or ecommerce company, or you want to highlight the progression from a cashier to CFO in 15 years. How do you address this issue?

Create a separate section called ‘Early career’ and list earlier jobs there. You needn’t give job descriptions – only include company names and job titles. You might want to omit dates as well. Thus, you’ll give a broader picture of your experience without taking much resume space.

4. Keep it to 2 pages

This point is closely connected with the previous one. Employers expect to receive a maximum 2-page resume from an experienced job-seeker. If you prioritize the information well, two pages more than suffice to show off your work history, educational background, and accomplishments.

Prioritization means that you need to include only the most relevant and recent information from your career history. Omit your university awards and accomplishments. Don’t list what your job as a bank teller entailed if you now apply for the position of senior risk analyst. And check out the word to use in resume – incorporating them will help you make a stronger impression on a hiring manager.

5. Write a powerful summary instead of an objective

Objectives are out of date. Vague statements like ‘To obtain a position where my strong account management and customer service skills can be utilized’ adds no value for an employer. In terms of fierce competition, employers want to know what you can bring to the table if hired.

Since you are likely to have more relevant experience than the younger applicants, career summary is where your qualifications can shine. Mention your most notable projects, accomplishments supported by figures, an important certification or rare combination of skills. A summary works as an elevator pitch, helping you capture the employer’s attention from the first lines.

6. Include a modern email address

Are you still using that AOL email address you set up 12 years ago? Or maybe, you don’t use email at all? Both facts signal your age more than a graduation date does. It’s high time that you created a professional address on Gmail or Hotmail. It should consist of your first and last name, for example, ‘[email protected]’.

7. List a mobile number

Another issue subtly indicating your age is mentioning a home phone number. Younger employees typically use a cell number. Needless to say that if you still use a fax number, it’s time to remove it.

When listing contact details, be sure to double-check the spelling.

8. Add a link to your LinkedIn profile

If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile or don’t use it, consider completing it and taking full advantage in your job search. Complete all necessary sections, write an eye-catching summary, and attach samples of your work if possible. LinkedIn allows recruiters to find you if your qualifications meet what they’re looking for, so you have a good chance of getting hired without any effort.

Moreover, a recruiter will look up for you online anyway, so attach a link to your pro social media. Your LinkedIn profile shows that you’re internet- and tech-savvy.

9. Demonstrate technology skills

Mastering industry-related technical skills and software is one of the key work success tips . One of the reasons that companies beware of hiring older employees is they afraid that the candidate isn’t good with technology. So, dispel their doubts.

List the industry software such as FreshBooks, BigTime, etc., standard programs (MS Office, Google Suite), and operating systems. Beware of mentioning  the Internet as technology or proficiency with social media unless you are a digital marketer. Also, remove the programs which are not used today. Say, Windows 95 is not a good idea.

10. Make it visually attractive

Twenty years ago, a golden standard was black text on white paper. Now your resume should look attractive and capture the reader’s attention with its design. Work on the looks of your resume as hard as you do on the content.

Use fonts without tails, for example, Calibri, Arial, or Garamond. They are easy on the eye and are used in the majority of documents. Describe your accomplishments using bullet points for better readability. Leave some white space so the reader could look through them and find what is of interest to them. And finally, add some color to emphasize crucial points or give a good structure.

11. Demonstrate your active lifestyle in the Hobbies section

Mentioning hobbies is not mandatory, and is usually up to the candidate. Yet, in the case with older applicants, career consultants recommend using it strategically. If you enjoy any type of physical activity such as yoga or jogging in the evenings or go in for serious sports such as skiing or running marathons, makes sure that your resume lists them. It can minimize potential age bias, as such hobbies imply that you keep healthy and stay in shape. Hence, you’ll make an energetic and hardworking employee.

12. Achievements instead of job duties

Focusing on job duties and tasks is acceptable for entry-level professionals who haven’t gained the skills to deliver tangible results so far. But when considering an experienced professional for the job, they want to see results and figures.

Whether you’ve built a top-performing sales team, minimized costs , improved processes or negotiated profitable contracts, give the recruiter details, numbers and percentages. You might list the accomplishments under each job title or create a separate Accomplishments section to show off your most notable results. Also, note that each job description should be 5-6 bullets in length, so be selective about what to include.

Considering switching to digital marketing industry? Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you succeed: https://resumeperk.com/blog/how-to-start-a-career-in-digital-marketing-10-tips .

Essential job hunting tips

Building a good resume is only half the battle. To speed up the job search process, follow these tips:

✓ Know where to look . While Indeed.com and Glassdoor.com can still be helpful, focus on the resources where companies specifically hire experienced job-seekers. Use Workforce50.com, Yourencore.com and similar platforms.

✓ Negotiate the compensation . Sometimes the employers vary of hiring older workers because they claim for higher salary than the less experienced applicants. The solution? During the interview, offer the employer to accept a lower starting salary and get a bigger bonus if you do a good job. This compromise is likely to be appealing for most companies.

✓ Don’t show you’re overqualified . A resume’s goal is to show off your skills and accomplishments, that’s true. But if you can be perceived as overqualified for the position, a recruiter might reject your application at all. In this case, remove the experience and achievements that show your qualifications going beyond what the job requires.

✓ Consider taking freelance or contractor position . If you struggle to find a full-time position, consider other options. Seek the contractor role or sign up for a freelance website to offer your services. These options will support you financially and keep your skills current until you find a full-time employment.

✓ Network actively. Use the power of LinkedIn as suggested above and reach out to your network. Tell everyone that you’re seeking new opportunities or ask to recommend you for a position. Networking gives you much more chances for getting hired as many jobs are filled through networking and are not posted online.

Have you been asked to write a bio for work? Here’s how to ace this task: https://resumeperk.com/blog/how-to-write-a-short-bio-for-work-9-tips .

Hear what recruiters really think about your resume

Do you struggle to land quality interviews? Then, a professional review from an experienced resume consultant will help. Resumeperk com is one of the pro resume sites where you can receive a resume critique for free. Send us your resume and receive hands-on recommendations about what to improve to make your resume shine. Looking for handwritten resume tips? Check here .

Want a unique resume that excellently shows off your strengths and hides your age? We offer affordable help with resumes and give 20% off your first order.

Our experienced writers can create a powerful resume suitable for each position. However, you may also request a specific resume depending on the job you are applying for, thus it will be tailored individually for your profession:

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Resume title

Google Recommends the XYZ Method Resume. Here’s How It Works.

3 key takeaways

• Google recruiters recommend the XYZ method resume for applicants. 
• The XYZ format on your resume emphasizes achievements, data, and results. 
• Teal’s AI Resume Builder can help you create a Google XYZ resume.

You know you should “show, not tell” on your resume.

Google made that cliche advice more actionable for job seekers by turning it into a resume writing formula.

Instead of listing your job responsibilities, the XYZ method helps you take a results-first approach that shows your accomplishments with key metrics.

Having a well-structured, results-heavy resume makes you stand out and puts your achievements into context. Using the XYZ resume format can help you do that.

In this article you’ll learn:

• The Google XYZ formula
• Who should use an XYZ resume
• How to use the XYZ formula

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free.

What is the XYZ resume format?

The XYZ resume format is a specific resume writing formula recommended by Google to highlight accomplishments. The formula is “Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z],” as outlined by Laszlo Bock , a former Google Senior Vice President of People Operations. 

Use this specific XYZ formula in bullet points to list your achievements. Doing so shows your skills with conviction and context. 

For example, instead of saying you “increased sales,” use the XYZ structure:

• Increased sales (X) by 25% (Y) by launching a new line of business in Q1 (Z). 

This example uses numbers to highlight how much you increased sales and also includes the “how.”

Who should use the Google XYZ resume format?

Because it provides a clear and concise way of sharing what you’ve done, the XYZ resume format is an effective resume method for anyone on the job search. But those looking for roles in tech, startups, or sales, may find it easiest to communicate their experience and expertise with this formula. 

Stephanie Alston, president at BGG Enterprises , a recruitment agency shared who should use this formula and how it can help:

“Use this format when you have specific results to show from your past jobs, like increasing sales, improving efficiency, or completing projects. It’s great for roles where your accomplishments can be measured.” 

Google recruiters recommended the XYZ method on resumes as a way to stand out and bring your resume to the top. Google sometimes receives 50 thousand resumes in a single week, many from highly qualified tech workers. So this advice carries a lot of weight and can help job applicants in a variety of fields quantify their achievements and communicate them succinctly.

Benefits of using the XYZ resume format

There are many benefits to using the XYZ format on your resume:

• Quantifies your accomplishments with tangible metrics
• Provides additional context  
• Includes how you accomplished a task
• Reads better
• Demonstrates impact

“This approach is helpful because it clearly shows employers what you’ve achieved and how you did it, making your resume more impactful and you more marketable as a job applicant,” says Alston of the XYZ resume format.

When to use the XYZ resume format

The XYZ resume method is good for job seekers in fields where accomplishments are easily quantifiable. So if you’re in healthcare, marketing, sales, business, engineering, consulting, or customer service, you likely have metrics to draw on that would make the XYZ resume format a good option. 

In these job types, hitting certain targets is how you show your success in the role. So think about which outcomes are the most impactful to share based on the job description. 

Some common metrics to use on a resume:

• Revenue increases
• Reducing expenses 
• Sales increases
• User acquisition 
• Profit increases
• Conversions 
• Return on investment
• Total output

You can also use the XYZ method on your resume if you’re a recent graduate or pivoting into a new career.

If you don’t have much job experience to list, you can use the formula with your educational achievements. If you’re looking for a career change, the XYZ structure can help you highlight your transferable skills. 

Though you may want to use the Google XYZ resume format on every resume, each one should be customized to the role using keywords from the job description. Luckily, you can do that with little time and effort using the Matching Mode feature in Teal’s Resume Builder , which helps you create a resume that’s aligned with the job description by recommending relevant keywords for your resume and grading your resume’s relevance to the open role.

For more insights on resume formats, check out this guide on the best resume format .

How to write an XYZ resume

Similar to the CAR method resume format , the XYZ resume writing method is a way to level up your accomplishments and quickly and clearly show results and impact. When you have a matter of seconds to grab the attention of a hiring manager, resume writing matters. Here is how you can take advantage of this compelling, Google-recommended format and write an XYZ resume.

1. Start with the formula 

The Google XYZ formula is: Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y] by doing [Z]

Use this structure when writing bullet points under the jobs listed in the Experience section of your resume.

2. Take an inventory

The XYZ structure focuses on your achievements, metrics, and how you did it. To help you write each bullet point, take an inventory of the accomplishments you can quantify.

Do this for each job. You’ll likely want to revise these points based on the job you’re applying for so they’re relevant. Write down the achievement (X) and the metric (Y). Start each sentence with an action verb and make sure to use a number for every metric. 

3. Write bullet points for each job 

The next part is putting the XYZ format into action. You want to connect the X and Y from step two and add Z to paint a complete picture.

Here are some examples of the XYZ resume format:

Marketing manager 

• Increased page views (X) by 23% (Y) in six months by implementing social media distribution strategies (Z). 
• Reduced ad spend (X) by 30% (Y) by improving customer targeting (Z).

Sales specialist

• Increased conversions (X) by 28% (Y) after training five new team members (Z). 
• Launched a new product (X) that led to a 15% profit increase in Q1 (Y) by engaging newsletter subscribers (Z). 

Customer service 

• Reduced errors (X) by 40% (Y) after creating a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) document (Z). 
• Increased customer satisfaction (X) by 18% (Y) by implementing survey feedback (Z). 

Go through this exercise for each position listed on your resume. This will enable you to highlight your successes while sharing your experience. Once you have the sentences ready for each job, include them as bullet points under each job title in the experience section of your resume. 

To easily list your results-driven achievements, use Teal’s AI Resume Builder. You can simply provide your LinkedIn URL and create a resume you can revise from there.

How to format an XYZ Resume

There are many ways to craft a resume. The XYZ format on a resume is different from standard resumes as it focuses on your accomplishments with metrics and processes using a specific formula. In addition to providing the XYZ formula, Google provided several formatting recommendations in their YouTube video on how to create a resume for Google. 

If you want to use this method, here’s how to format an XYZ resume:

1. Create the right order of sections 

Google recruiters recommend you include the following sections:

• Leadership and Awards
• Optional section 

This is the go-to format if you’re a professional with several years of experience under your belt. If you’re a recent graduate, Google recommends putting the Education section up top. So the order would be:

Include your GPA, graduation date, or expected graduation date if you’re still a student. If you don’t have much experience to list, consider using the XYZ resume structure in the education section to highlight some of your accomplishments in school. 

For the optional section, you can choose something relevant to your experience or a good match for the role you want. Some options can include projects, publications, or even extracurricular activities.

2. Include XYZ formula bullet points under Experience 

The Google XYZ resume formula should be primarily applied to the Experience section. Include bullet points using the specific formula under your job title, employer, and employment dates. 

Use relevant keywords from the job posting in the formula. Make sure to begin with action words, then a numeral, and how you accomplished your achievement. If you’re stuck, review these 250 action verbs for inspiration. Each bullet point should follow the XYZ resume format and span one line. 

Social Media Marketer, Agency | October 2021 - present

• Increased social media impressions by 35% by creating and posting to IG Reels and TikTok. 
• Reduced planning time by 5 hours per week by implementing a content calendar and scheduling posts.

3. List experience in reverse-chronological order 

Use reverse-chronological order when listing your experience and job history on your resume. That means listing your current, or most recent, position first, then going further as you go down the page. Formatting your resume in reverse-chronological order shows potential employers what you’re doing now, while also sharing your job history and skills you’ve achieved in the past.

Reverse-chronological order resume template:

[Current position] [Current employer] [Month/year start date - present]

[Position before that] ][Previous employer] [Month/year - Month/year]

4. Keep the style consistent

To follow the XYZ resume guidelines, choose a consistent style for your resume. That means using the same font and size throughout your resume. 

Using an 11-point or 12-point size font is ideal. Additionally, these font styles are widely used on resumes:

• Times New Roman 

Additionally, it’s best to use black or dark text. The main thing is to keep the font, size, and color uniform. The text should look clean and organized with enough white space. Most importantly, it should be easy to read.

5. Review for resume red flags 

When all the information is in place, review your resume carefully. You want to avoid resume red flags that can immediately take you out of the running. These can include:

• Grammatical errors 
• Not including contact information
• Including confidential information about a company 

Also, double-check for accuracy. You want to present yourself in the best light for potential hiring managers and employers. But fibbing about certain parts of your experience is a big no-no.

6. Finalize resume 

There are a lot of thoughts on what file type your resume should be or how many pages it should be. 

In Google’s YouTube video on resume tips for applying for a job at the multibillion-dollar company, a clear preference is stated: A one-page PDF.

If you have a lot of technical skills and an extensive job history, you may get away with a two-page resume. But if you can make it into a succinct one-page PDF, even better. 

To help you write your achievements using the XYZ format, use Teal’s AI Achievement Assistant.

For example, here’s an example of achievements written by AI. Then you can edit and customize to fit your resume and use the XYZ formula. 

You can also add keywords, input the job description, or use a custom prompt to help. 

If you're new to resume creation, read this guide on how to make a resume .

XYZ resume example

Here’s an XYZ resume example using the formula. You see accomplishments up front, the quantifiable measurement, and finally how it was done. This example is full of various metrics and real data, illustrating impact and outcomes. 

XYZ resume template

If you want to use the XYZ resume format recommended by Google recruiters, here’s a template of which sections to include and where to put the XYZ formula: 

Name Github profile (if applicable)

Email address Programming languages (if applicable)

Job title 1/Employer 1 Month Year - Present

• XYZ formula

Job title 2/Employer 2 Month Year - Month Year 

Job title 3/Employer 3 Month Year - Month Year 

• XYZ formula 

Leadership and awards

Education  

Optional final section

Tips and best practices for an XYZ resume

• Customize bullet points. Every job is different. Be sure to customize your bullet points using the XYZ method on your resume based on the job description. Some achievements may be relevant for one position but not another. It may also need a little tweaking to make sure it fits. Keep each bullet to one line. 
• Check for keywords. Match the language in the job description. The posting is like a dating profile sharing who and what they’re looking for. Using relevant keywords mirrors back to them you’re the right fit for the role. Doing so can also help your resume make it past applicant tracking systems (ATS). In Teal’s Resume Builder, use Matching Mode to make this step easy.
• Review spelling and grammar. Do a simple spell check. You want to get rid of any misspellings, omitted words, and double words and check for context as homonyms can sneak through. Additionally, look at your grammar. You can use Teal’s Resume Checker to find typos, fix structure, and optimize your resume’s score. You can also highlight your text and have it read aloud. If you have a Mac, highlight your text and then press “Option” + “Esc.” You’ll hear the text read aloud for you, which can help you hear errors your tired eyes might not see. 
• Check format. Google recommends candidates use a one-page PDF when submitting resumes for a job at the company. If you go beyond one page, make sure it’s worth it.  

If you're considering a longer resume, read this post on two-page resumes can provide valuable insights.

Write a Google-approved XYZ resume 

If you want to work for Google—or appeal to other FAANG tech enterprises—it makes sense to follow the Google XYZ resume format. Think of it this way, the company is telling you how to succeed with your resume and have the best shot of advancing. 

In the YouTube video about resume tips, it’s stated that Google makes cover letters optional and your resume is the main focus. In other words, your resume needs to do the heavy lifting to showcase your skills. So follow their XYZ resume format exactly to increase your chances of landing a job interview. 

Even if you’re not applying for a job at Google, the XYZ resume format can provide a compelling and easy-to-use formula that may give you an edge. Having a well-structured and achievement-oriented resume can make the most of the little space you have.

If you want to utilize one of the best tools out there to help write your resume, use Teal’s AI-powered Resume Builder . It gives an analysis score, so you can see that you have the right keywords related to the job description. Plus, you can use AI Achievements to write effective bullet points perfect for the XYZ resume format.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the google xyz resume.

The Google XYZ resume is recommended by the company for job applicants looking to get a job at Google. The resume uses the XYZ formula to highlight achievements in the experience section of your resume. The X refers to what was accomplished, Y refers to how it was measured, and Z refers to how it was accomplished. For example, increasing sales by 33% by implementing new email marketing strategies.

What are the three resume format types?

The top three resume formats are chronological, functional, and combination. The chronological format lists your work history and experience in reverse order so your most recent job is toward the top. The functional resume format is skills-based and focuses on strengths and capabilities. The combination format integrates a bit of both styles. 

What is the most successful resume format?

The most successful and frequently used resume format is the chronological format. It outlines your work history in reverse chronological order. Using this format, you emphasize your most recent work experience and then your previous experience.

Melanie Lockert

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Resume Writing Guide

A resume is typically an employer’s first introduction to you. First impressions are crucial to establish yourself as professional, capable, and motivated. A strong resume demonstrates your transferrable skills, communication abilities, and achievements. A consistent, detailed, and concise resume can help your resume get noticed by recruiters. By formatting your resume professionally, you increase your chances of earning the interview.

Resume Components

Contact information, phone number.

Use a phone number you can answer readily, such as your cell phone. If you have a voice mail set-up, make sure it sounds professional with your name and the best times to contact you.

Your e-mail address should be professional. While you are enrolled at UMass Amherst, your UMass e-mail will work well. After graduation, consider creating a new e-mail address that contains your name. 

Always include phone and email, but consider if listing your address is helpful or harmful. Employers may give preference to people who are closer geographically - if you are applying from far away, they may be unsure whether you are serious about moving.

Additionally, while your city and state are helpful to list, you do not necessarily need to include your street address. Employers will need it to hire you, but it is not required to provide during the job application process.

Objective/Summary

This section is most useful when you hand your paper resume out at a career or networking event - unless you have something specific to highlight, consider leaving it off your resume. A cover letter will do a better job conveying your why, as well as your key abilities. When you submit electronically, many Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) will often skip the summary section and look for those key words to be in the body of your document instead.

For currently enrolled students, you will list your current degree first, and then work backwards in reverse chronological order. During your first few years of college, consider including your high school until you run out of space.

In addition to your college education, you may also highlight   study abroad or domestic exchange programs . When discussing these programs, think about including the following experiences to highlight your transferable skills: 

Class projects

Volunteering/internships/research applicable to your field

Independent travel

Learning to work with a more diverse group of people than you had previously been exposed to

Resolving conflicts based on misunderstandings of cultural differences

Learn new activities, languages, hobbies, or skills

Education Section Example 

University of Massachusetts, Amherst (Fall 2024 - Present)

Bachelor of Arts, Major: English

GPA (if over 3.0 and you feel comfortable sharing)

Relevant Coursework: 3-5 courses max

Awards (when including awards, include the reason for receiving it. Example: "21st Century Leadership Award for high academic achievement in first year")

Senior Project: (optional)

Portfolio of work (optional)

There are many types of experiences: volunteer, paid, unpaid, work study. If the experience is relevant and taught you transferrable skills, find a way to include it.

• For each experience, include name of organization, your title or role, location, and dates
• Action verbs (samples below) to help you write accomplishment statements, which prove you have the skills you say by leaning into outcomes and successes
• Consider using multiple experience headings, such as: research experience, industry experience, or relevant experience. This can be a good way to move more relevant experiences up higher on your resume, even if they happened further in the past.
• Quantifying your work can demonstrate your aptitude. Answering questions such as "How many?",   "How much?", and "How often?" will help recruiters understand the extent of your skills.  
• Avoid “responsibilities included" and writing in a passive voice - using action verbs will make this easier.

Experience Example

Leverage, Incorporated: Boston, MA (September 2025 - Present)

Computer Science Intern

• Developed an algorithm that identified patterns in white collar crime in the financial industries across the United States. Implementation of this program reduced company losses by 17% compared to the previous quarter.
• Collaborated with supply chain division to design new packaging based on reduction of carbon footprint, leading to increased production distribution while reducing energy usage.
• Established a training program to help connect interns with mentors at the organization and was awarded the Innovative Intern of Quarter for these efforts

This section is typically for "hard" skills, which are skills that can easily be measured. Soft skills (such as interpersonal skills) are better described in bullet points of your experience section so they can have the context they require. For a skills section, depending on your targeted field, you may add computer, language, laboratory skills, or performances. For languages, put your level of fluency (e.g., proficient, advanced, fluent, native).

Skills Example

Computer: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), Adobe Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), Data Analysis (R-Studio, SPSS)

Resume Formatting and Layout

The average reading only spends 20 seconds reading a resume. Before that, an applicant tracking system may be utilized to select which resumes get reviewed by a human being.  Make sure your resume is easy to read and stands out. 

No single format works for everyone: the only rule is that you need to be honest, factual, and relevant

One page is ideal (especially for internships) and for students ages 18-25

Keep a longer master resume for future opportunities

List everything in reserve chronological order; start with your most recent experience work backwards

Use a legible sans serif  font size, keep it readable, 11 is a good place to start

1 column is better than 2; when you have two columns the reader may jump around and miss key information

No icons or images as they cannot be read by applicant tracking software

How Many Resume Versions Do I Need?

There is a big difference between customizing your resume for a specific position/industry versus creating different documents for each application.

• If you are applying to jobs in drastically different industries, you will want to customize resumes for each industry. For example, a psychology major applying to jobs in Human Services as well as Human Resources will want to highlight different experiences and skills for each, and potentially format their resumes different as a business setting holds different expectations for job criteria compared to a mental health setting.
• If you're pursuing a few different roles, but they're all related to one discipline or field, then you will not need multiple versions of your resume. However, you will still want to tweak each resume you send out based on the specific job description. 

Specialized Resumes/Sections

While resumes may follow the same general format, depending on your experience and industry, there may be other considerations to help your resume stand out.

Design Resumes

Design resumes can differ from traditional resumes in several tangible ways, reflecting the unique skills and creative nature of design professions.

Your document is an indication of your style aesthetic and may not need to conform to the same rules and standards as other professions.

Visual Layout

Design resumes often incorporate creative layouts that display the designer's skills in typography, layout, and visual communication.

• Infographics: Use of icons, graphs, and other visual elements can represent skills, experience, and achievements.
• Color and Typography: Thoughtful use of color and font choices creates an aesthetically pleasing document that aligns with your personal brand.

Content Presentation and Customization

Direct links to online portfolios or examples of work, are often included as part of the resume. Incorporation of personal logos, custom icons, and other branding elements that reflect a designer's style may be added here.

File Format and Compatibility

Designers create their resumes in online spaces varying from Latec to Adobe to Canva. While many resumes are shared as PDFs, design resumes especially should be shared in this format to preserve visual integrity across different devices.

Unique Layouts

Non-traditional formats such as infographics, timelines, or modular layouts may be acceptable.

Interactivity

For digital resumes, elements of interactivity can be incorporated, such as clickable links, hover effects, and embedded multimedia.

The most important rules still apply to ALL resumes; clean neat formatting, with consistency in where the reader will access key information continues to be your driving force.

Designers should contact their career centers to discuss what resume style might best suit their professional goals.

Digital Resumes

A digital resume is an electronic version of a traditional resume that highlights an individual's professional experience, skills, and achievements using digital formats.

Either shared as a PDF or hosted on a personal website, this format allows for enhanced interactivity and multimedia integration. Digital resumes often feature creative layouts, embedded links to portfolios, and interactive elements such as hover effects or animations.

They enable candidates to visually demonstrate their technical and design skills, making them particularly popular in creative and tech industries. The goal of a digital resume is to highlight qualifications, but also provide a dynamic and engaging avenue for potential employers to assess a candidate’s capabilities.

Student Athletes

As a UMass athlete, you learn incredible transferable skills in areas such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. You also spend more time at your activity than most, so make sure they see all your greatness in action.

“Effectively managed communications between 24 team members, served as liaison connecting team and coaching staff, and effectively resolved intra-group conflicts.”

“Excellent time management skills. Balanced a 30+ hour practice, training, competition, and travel schedule while balancing full academic course load.

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• Resume & CV

20+ Free Nursing Resume Templates (Examples to Download for 2024)

A successful job search strategy helps you find and land your dream nursing job. You'll need to create a resume and cover letter that gets you interviews. Let's look at some nursing resume examples that you can download and use.

Clean Nurse Resume Pro (premium nursing template) from Envato Elements

Work smart by using a pre-built resume template. You have options between free and premium templates to pick from. Browse through all available options and download one that fits your needs. 

We'll start by checking out 2024's collection of top sample nursing resume templates from Envato Elements. Then we'll explore 20 free nursing resume templates found online. 

Find the Best Nursing Resume Templates on Envato Elements for 2024 (Unlimited Use)

Thanks to Envato Elements, lack of time or skill is no longer an obstacle for many. Active membership is an investment that enables you to improve your creative projects effortlessly. Download a premium nursing template and other files without limits.

Unlock access to millions of creative assets on Envato Elements—all for a low fixed monthly fee. 

Use any premium resume templates from Envato Elements for your job application

Get access to premium files like:

• print, graphics, web, and presentation templates,
• video, music, audio, and photo files,
• 3D objects, fonts, codes, and so much more.

Premium resume templates are modern, creative, well-layered, and most importantly, impressive. Customization is minimal, and in most cases, all you have to do is add your content. Free nursing resume templates fall short and make it risky to use. 

5 Best Premium Nursing Resume Templates for 2024 

Here are five best nursing resume examples from Envato Elements: 

1. Registered Nurses CV Resume Template

This file comes with a single-page resume and cover letter template. It's professionally designed and is a modern minimalistic document. Easily edit the content, add your photo, and you're all set to send out your application. 

2. Nurse Resume & Cover Letter Template

This professional document is well-layered and clearly labeled. This premium template is convenient to work with and provides the best possible results. Download and edit this template in Adobe Illustrator today.

3. Nursing CV Template

Here's a black and white template. The sections on the resume are divided creatively and have a modern feel. The design is simple yet uses typographic hierarchy to direct readers to relevant information. 

4. CV Resume Word Template

The CV Resume Word Template can be used for any job that you want to apply to. It comes with a matching cover letter that looks professional. In addition, this nurse resume download can be edited in Microsoft Word and Adobe Illustrator. The design is modern and minimal, which makes it versatile.

5. Minimalist Resume

This minimal nurse resume download comes with Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Word versions. It features an achievements and skills section where you can show your accomplishments. Plus, there's a QR code in the contact section to link to a website or social media.

20 Top Free Nursing Resume CV Template Examples to Download (2024)

Before we explore the 20 best free nursing resume templates found on the internet, let's look at Envato's free offerings. Download and use any of these premium files for free. It's an opportunity for you to experience premium before signing up.

Envato Elements offers free monthly files . 

The file you want to try isn't in this month's collection? As these selections are refreshed monthly, you may be in luck next month. 

Here's the offer:

• Twelve unique monthly files from Envato Elements are on offer: audio, graphics, video, web, etc. To get your hands on these monthly premium freebies, all you have to do is create a free account. 

Let's move on and check out 20 top free sample nursing resume templates found online. These files are available for anyone to use. 

1. Free Nurse Resume Template

This is an MS Word sample nursing resume template. The layout is simple and is in black and white. 

2. Free Dental Assistant Resume Template

This template was designed for a clerical position at a clinic or hospital. A nurse can easily customize this template to apply for registered nurse positions. 

3. Free Nursing Resume Example

This nurse resume template free download includes all important sections a nurse's resume should. But the layout is simple and may not grab attention.

4. Free RN Resume Template

This resume is simple and easy to use. It comes in PDF but can be edited in MS Word.

5. New Grad Nursing Resume Template

This template is designed for a newly graduated nurse with a few years of clinical experience done during studies. It comes in black and white. 

6. Nursing Resume Objective Template

There is a clear division between each section in this template. But the design does look a bit dated and not creative. 

7. Free RN Resume Template for Microsoft Word

This resume template includes career objectives, skills and achievements, education and qualifications, project work, computer skills, work experience, other achievements, interests, and references. 

8. Free Registered Nurse Resume Template

This single-page MS Word resume template is free for anyone to use. It's a simple text-only layout.

9. Amy - Free Sample Nursing Resume Template

This resume is divided into four sections: career objective, experience, education, and licenses. Work within the provided sections to keep the resume as a single-page document. 

10. Free Nursing Resume Example

This resume example is very wordy. This document serves well as a content example for a nursing resume. 

11. Gray - Free RN Resume Template

This free RN resume template has a dark gray header and footer section. The body of the page is also split into two sections. This color sectioning is neat and a step up from other free sample nursing resume templates.

12. Red - Free Nursing Resume Example

The text on this template is black, but critical information like contact details are in red. You can highlight other texts by turning them red too. 

13. Blue - Free Nursing Resume Template

In this template, sections are divided by blue lines. Section headers are in blue too. 

14. Free RN Resume Template - Google Docs

This is a free resume and cover letter set template for any registered nurse to use. You can edit or customize these templates of Google Docs.

15. Free Medical CV Template

Here's a Google Docs template you can use to apply for any medical-related jobs. Highlights are in blue. 

16. Amazing - Free Medical Resume Template

This is a two-paged resume Google Docs template. Texts are in light blue, and highlights are in red.

17. Free Nurse Resume Modern Template

Here's a two-paged, black and white resume template. Sections are divided by lines. 

18. Free Nurse Resume Traditional

This template comes in PDF but can be edited on MS Word. It's a traditional format that can come off looking dated. 

19. RN - Free Nursing Resume Template

This is a single-page registered nurse resume template for free. Easily edit this template on MS Word or Google Docs. 

20. Free Registered Nurse Resume Template

Here's a four-page resume template that thoroughly covers all sections with a few examples. Bold texts are used to highlight titles and essential information. 

How to Customize a Nurse Resume in Microsoft Word

After you’ve chosen a free resume template for nurses or a premium template, you’ll want to customize it.

In this tutorial, the Resume Word from Envato Elements is used. Because this template has a simple design, you can use it for any job you apply to.

Let's get started:

1. Add Your Information

When you open your nurse resume download template, you’ll notice that it's already filled out. This is to show you where information is supposed to go.

To replace the text that comes with your template, first highlight the text you want to replace. Next, press the Delete button on your keyboard.

2. Customize the Font

If you don’t like the font on your template, you can change it easily.

• Highlight the text that you want to change the font of.
• Click on the Home tab above the toolbar. You’ll see a font field with the current font in the home tab.
• Click on the arrow in this field. When you click on this arrow, a menu drops down. From this menu, choose the font that you want to use.

To change the font size, there's a Font Size field next to the Font menu field. Click on the arrow in the field to access the font size menu. Then, choose the right font for you from the menu.

3. Customize the Colors

Some companies require a plain resume, while others want you to show your creativity or personality. If you want to show your personality in a fun way without going over the top, then adding color by changing the background is the easiest way.

• Click on the white space in your resume.
• Click on the Design tab.
• You'll see a Page Color button in the toolbar under the design tab. Click the arrow next to that button.
• When you click on this button, a color menu appears. Choose the color of your choice.

4. Add an Image

Some resumes require a headshot. If you’re applying to a job that does require one, you need to know how to add the image to your resume.

After choosing your image and knowing where the file is located, click on the Insert tab.

Next, click on the Pictures button in the toolbar. When you click on this button, a menu appears. Choose the right option depending on where your image file is located. Adjust the image as needed.

5. Save as a PDF

Some companies would prefer if you sent them a PDF version of your resume. This is also good information if you need to email your resume.

• To save your resume as a PDF, click on the File option on the toolbar at the top of your screen. When you click on this option, a menu appears.
• Choose the Save As… option. When you click Save As , a window appears. In that window, there's a File Format: field. Click on the arrow in that field.
• When you click on the arrow, a menu drops down. Click the PDF option.
• Once the option is selected, click on the blue Save button at the bottom of the window.

5 Quick Tips To Make Great Nursing Resumes in 2024

Do you need to create an impressive nursing resume, and are you unsure how to go about it? Here are five quick tips for setting you on the right path for this job application: 

1. Add Better Keywords and Phrases

Increase the chances of getting called for an interview by adding relevant keywords and phrases to your CV. Recruiters use Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software or manually screen applications to assess applicants' compatibility to the position. Learn more about the importance of keywords for resumes with this guide:

2. Highlights and Section Dividers

There are many ways to highlight and show clear division of sections. But some approaches like lines and bold fonts can look dated. While dividing by background colors can look clean and modern.

Medical-Themed Resume (premium template) from Envato Elements, uses colors to creatively divide sections

Keep this in mind while selecting your template and be sure to go with a template that creatively separates sections. A well-designed resume grabs attention, is easy to read, and directs your eyes to vital information. 

3. Provide References Upon Request

Licenses and Certification is included instead of References on the premium Medical CV Resume & Cover Letter (Envato Elements)

Leave out the references from your resume. You've got limited space to work with, and you can provide the references upon request. The goal, for now, is to include as much information (with keywords) to get an interview. 

4. Go Visual With Infographics

Medical Resume (premium example) uses simple graphics and icons to visualize some texts

Visuals grab attention more than texts. Turn timelines, skills, or software knowledge into graphics. Icons are also a great way to add more color to your resume.  

5. Stand Out With a Personal Brand Statement

Consider adding a personal brand statement to your CV. It summarizes your current position in your career and what you can bring to the company. Check out this article to find out how you can write a great personal brand statement:

5 Resume Design Trends

It'll help your job search if your resume looks current. Here are some top resume design trends to incorporate into your resume:

1. List Your Skills

Skills are an essential section that shows your potential employer what you have that they need at a glance. There are two different skills that you can add to your resume. They are:

• Hard skills . These are gained through education or work experiences.
• Soft skills . These are skills that relate to how you work and interact with others. (For example, communication, teamwork, and Problem-solving.)

Listing your skills is a great way to show your potential employer what makes you stand out among the other applicants.

2. Choose the Right Format

There are several different types of resume formats. Not every format is best for the job that you’re applying to. Here are the three top resume formats:

• Reverse Chronological Format . This format is the most common among traditional career paths. The format lists your work history in reverse chronological order, with your current job first and ending with your first job.
• Functional Format . This is a great choice for someone applying to a niche career, looking to change careers, or without work experience. In this format, you list skills and experience relevant to the job you’re applying to rather than your work history.
• Combination Format . This format will work well for you if you have a diverse work history. This format combines reverse chronological and functional formats.

When choosing which format works for you, consider the job you're applying for and your career field.

3. Include Your Social Media

Your online presence can help your job hunt. Most employers would prefer if you at least have a LinkedIn profile that you can link to on your resume. LinkedIn is a great tool where you can expand your resume. It’s created specifically for job hunters. If you have a creative job, you should link to your website with your portfolio. Before applying for a job, make sure to check all of your social media. Make sure it doesn’t have anything you don’t want potential employers to see.

4. List Your Accomplishments

Instead of just listing job titles, it's more impressive to list your accomplishments. Did you win an award in your career? Add it to the resume.

Did you finish a high number of projects? Add it to your resume. This shows your future employer that you don’t just know how to do your job but that you’re good at your job. Adding your accomplishments can impress the hiring manager and lead to a higher chance of being hired.

Subtle pops of color can make your resume stand out among boring black-and-white resumes. Before adding a pop of color, consider the job you’re applying for. For example, a resume with a hot pink background can look unprofessional if you are applying to be a lawyer. Instead, some resumes have colorful objects that highlight essential information on your resume. This is a great way to add color because you highlight important information without distracting the reader.

Discover More Top Resume Template Designs

Are you interested in exploring some top multipurpose resume templates? Here are three top collections for you to start with. 

Learn More About Making Great Resumes in 2024

Put your best foot forward with the help of an impressive registered nurse resume. Are you new at creating resumes and could use some guidance?

Pin this Ultimate Guide to Building a Resume to your browser. It serves as a quick reference with loads of tips to help you land that dream job. 

Here are three sample how-to tutorials: 

Download a Premium Top Registered Nurse Resume Template Today!

A job application process can feel daunting at times. And not getting called for an interview you wanted is highly frustrating too. Increase your chances of getting interviews by submitting a well-prepared resume that best represents you. 

Envato Elements' premium nursing resume templates get you on the right path to creating an impressive resume that'll stand out from the competition. With an active Envato Elements subscription, you'll take all your other creative projects to new heights too. It's time to work smart! 

Get the best nurse resume templates from Envato Elements! Subscribe to download now!

Editorial Note: This post has been updated with contributions from Sarah Joy . Sarah is a freelance instructor for Envato Tuts+.

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Reporting Analyst at Harvard University Resume Sample

Get inspiration for your own resume with this Techno-Functional Reporting Analyst resume sample that helped Elvi Caperonis get hired at Harvard University and Amazon. She has kindly allowed us to share her resume with the world so that you, too, can land your dream job more easily. Download it for free or edit it directly within Kickresume's resume builder.

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How to craft the perfect startup resume (+resume samples)

Reporting Analyst at Harvard University Resume Sample (Full Text Version)

Elvi caperonis, professional profile.

ScrumMaster® Certified Business Intelligence (BI) professional with over nine years of experience implementing advanced reporting and data warehousing solutions across multiple industries. Proven ability to analyze information's critical requirements successfully and identify deficiencies and potential opportunities for increasing business productivity and efficiency. Excellent interpersonal skills that help build strong customer relationships contribute to highly successful outcomes. Self-motivated professional committed to helping achieve the organization's objectives with conscientious work based on the principles of honesty, discretion, truth, loyalty, and sincerity.

Technical Skills

• IBM Cognos BI –  IBM Cognos 10 Report Studio, IBM Cognos BI 10 Framework Manager
• Database – Oracle 9i, 10G, SQL Server 2000, 2005, 2008,DB2
• Operating Systems - Windows XP, Vista, 7, Server 2003, Server 2008, VM 
• Programming Languages – SQL, HTML, JavaScript
• Data Warehousing: Star Schema Design & Modelling, Data Cleansing, OLAP Design.
• Reporting Tools: IBM Cognos 10 , Oracle Business Intelligence Enterprise Edition (OBIEE) 10G/11G, BI Publisher, Siebel Analytics 7.0, Business Objects XI, ClickView 7i, Microstrategy 8.0, Microsoft Visual Studio 2008.
• ETL: Informatica Power Center 7.5, Oracle Warehouse Builder 10G, SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) 2008.
• OLAP: Hyperion Essbase 9, Analysis Services 2008.
• PeopleSoft 9.0 (Campus Solutions).

Work Experience

• Engaged as a techno-functional analyst to collaborate with business clients and internal teams to evaluate BI and reporting needs and incorporate them into a unified delivery framework
• Established a metrics-focused reporting environment by gathering and interpreting 10+ key performance indicators from senior leadership and stakeholders
• Utilized Agile methodology to devise and implement 100+ reporting solutions, such as standard reports, data source-to-target mappings, tables, views, and user interfaces
• Developed the semantic layer, 50+ metrics, reports, and dashboards
• Assisted 10+ internal teams, end users, and business owners in creating and delivering business intelligence content
• Played various roles with high proficiency throughout an IBM Cognos BI project lifecycle: Solution Architect, Resource Manager, Project Manager, Report Developer, Metadata Modeler, OLAP Developer, etc.
• Collaborated with Principal Consultants to prepare 5+ project estimates, timelines, and proposals. 
• Collaborated with Data Architects and ETL Developers to design or enhance data warehouse models for high-performance business analytics.
• Provided 10+ detailed documents and knowledge-transfer services to customers.
• Participated in 5+ software pre-sales activities, including developing customer proof-of-concept solutions and technical feature demonstrations.
• Spearheaded the development and implementation of a cutting-edge reporting platform in Microsoft BI Suite
• Successfully resolved performance management reporting challenges by integrating them into a cohesive solution.
• Analyzed and interpreted critical data to generate over 100 detailed reports
• Executed the development and deployment of more than 20 ETL processes utilizing SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) for data extraction from diverse sources
• Thoroughly documented functional and technical specifications for future reference
• Played a key role in database design and data modeling
• Compiled comprehensive reports on application usage, incident tracking, and system performance metrics
• Strategically developed and implemented RDP design (OLAP Design) using the OBIEE Administration Tool
• Developed over 300 reports utilizing the OBIEE Presentation Layer
• Designed 5+ Interactive Dashboards and Front End interfaces using the OBIEE Presentation Layer
• Analyzed all business requirements and proposed solutions for approval
• Gathered customer requirements and provided constructive feedback
• Supported technical incidents using OBIEE
• Designed and developed over 500 reports utilizing Oracle Business Intelligence Presentation Layer, Interactive Dashboards, and Front-End interface
• Provided support to professionals during project execution
• Created 20 reports using Business Objects
• Developed 10+ Extraction, Transformation, and Load (ETL) processes from multiple systems using Informatica Power Center 7.5 to analyze lending portfolio
• Analyzed 5+ data models to ensure data quality

Certifications

Techno-functional reporting analyst.

A Techno-Functional Reporting Analyst combines technical and business skills to manage and optimize reporting systems. This role involves gathering and consolidating data, ensuring its accuracy, and using BI tools to create reports and dashboards. Key responsibilities include translating business requirements into technical specifications, generating standard and ad hoc reports, and automating reporting processes. They also provide training and support to end-users. Strong analytical abilities, communication skills, and expertise in data management are essential for this role.

Harvard University

Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636 as Harvard College and named for its first benefactor, Puritan clergyman John Harvard, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Its influence, wealth, and rankings have made it one of the most prestigious universities in the world

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