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5 Things You Should Always Include On Your Resume



Make sure your resume has all the right stuff.

Sometimes, you do need to sweat the small stuff. Resume writing is one of those times. After all, you only have six seconds to impress the recruiter.

Amanda Augustine, Top Resume’s resident career advice expert, shared some valuable resume-writing tips with Business Insider.

Include these essential elements to make sure your resume won’t get tossed right into the “No” pile:

1. Job description keywords

Many employers use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to scan and rank your resume before they even lay eyes on it. The ATS looks for certain keywords from the job description to determine how good of a fit you are for the position. When writing your resume, make sure to incorporate the keywords that pop up most frequently in the job description. Don’t just copy and paste–make sure to add these words naturally throughout your resume.

Sites like JobScan are great for finding the popular and relevant keywords and seeing how your resume measures up.

2. Professional title

Make your job goals very clear on your resume by including a professional title at the top that spells out what type of job position you're seeking. For example, you might put 'Senior Accounting Professional' or 'Marketing & Sales Associate' right beneath your contact information and above your career narrative (also called a professional summary) to let the hiring manager know that’s exactly what you’re looking for.

3. Certifications and credentials

Do you have a certification or advanced degree that's an asset in your job field, such as an MBA or RN? If so, Augustine advises including it after your name at the top of your resume. "You don't need to include the acronym for your undergraduate degree or a certification that's not relevant to your current job goals."

You should still include the details of these credentials in the professional development and education section of your resume. By showcasing the acronyms after your name at the very top of your resume, you’re making sure the recruiter will see this important selling point right off the bat.

4. Relevant websites

Any websites that contribute to your overall personal brand are important, relevant and should be included at the top of your resume. Augustine advises grouping these URLs with your contact information. This isn’t limited to your LinkedIn profile–you can also include links to a personal blog or online portfolio.

When selecting which websites to include on your resume, make sure each is regularly updated and benefits your personal brand. For example, you shouldn’t share a blog about your favorite musician if you're seeking a job in operations.

5. Stats on your resume

Metrics are important for supporting your career achievements on your resume. They show employers the full scope of your bandwidth and indicate whether or not you have the ability to successfully lead a team and contribute to the growth of the business.

For example, instead of stating that you "Helped grow revenue," on your resume try this: "Grew revenue by 500% to $1 million in a 12-month period by doing [X]."