What to Put on a Resume: Essential Tips to Stand Out

Creating a convincing resume can be the difference between landing your dream job or being overlooked. Knowing what to put on a resume and how to structure it with precision is essential this 2025. In this guide, we'll explore the most important resume sections, answer common questions like "should a resume be one page?", and show you how to make your resume stand out while maintaining integrity. Understanding what does a good resume look like is the first step in getting noticed.

Why Your Resume Matters More Than Ever

Recruiters spend less than 7 seconds on an initial scan of your resume. That’s why clarity, relevance, and a professional format are non-negotiable. Learning what to put on a resume and how to make your resume stand out can dramatically increase your chances of landing an interview. If you're asking yourself, "should a resume be one page?" or "what does a good resume look like?", you're in the right place.

What Does a Good Resume Look Like?

A good resume is:

• Clean and easy to read: Use white space and consistent formatting.
• Tailored to the job: Customize each resume to match the role.
• Results-driven: Use data and accomplishments to prove your value.

When deciding what to put on a resume, remember that a strong format matters. What does a good resume look like? It balances design and content, staying clear yet impactful.

Take a look at these great resumes from Sherlock Holmes and Hermione Granger—detective work and spell-casting have never looked so professional!

What to Put on a Resume (Key Sections)

1. Contact Information

When considering what to put on a resume, start with the basics:

• Full name
• Professional email address (no nicknames)
• Phone number
• LinkedIn profile and/or personal website (if relevant)

2. Resume Summary or Objective

A short, powerful statement at the top that summarizes your skills, experience, and career goals. This is one of the first things to consider when thinking about what to put on a resume.

Example: "Detail-oriented marketing specialist with 5+ years of experience driving digital growth. Passionate about using data to optimize campaigns."

3. Work Experience

Your work history is essential. Always think about how to make your resume stand out by highlighting achievements.

Each job should have:

• Job title
• Company name and location
• Dates of employment
• 3–5 bullet points describing accomplishments and responsibilities

How many bullet points per job on resume? Ideally, 3–5 bullet points. Focus on achievements, not just duties.

Example Bullet Points:

• Increased email open rates by 25% through A/B testing
• Managed a $100K advertising budget and exceeded ROI goals by 20%
• Trained and led a team of 5 junior analysts to deliver quarterly reports

4. Education

Another key item for what to put on a resume. Include:

• Degrees
• Institutions
• Graduation dates
• Honors and awards (if applicable)

5. Skills Section

What to put on a resume? Always include a skills section with both hard and soft skills.

Examples:

• Technical: Adobe Creative Suite, Excel, Python
• Soft: Communication, Leadership, Problem-solving

Make your resume stand out by aligning your skills with the job posting.

6. Certifications & Awards

When thinking about what to put on a resume to differentiate yourself, this section helps you shine. Include recent, relevant certifications (e.g., Google Analytics, PMP, Scrum).

7. Languages

If you’re multilingual, it’s a great idea to list your language skills. It helps your resume stand out and adds value, especially in global roles.

8. Volunteer Work or Extracurriculars

This often overlooked section is essential for recent grads or career changers. It shows initiative and character. Knowing what to put on a resume also includes thinking beyond just paid work.

Should a Resume Be One Page?

The question "should a resume be one page?" is common. Here's the truth:

• Entry-level or recent grads: Yes, a one-page resume is best.
• Mid-career or experienced professionals: Two pages are acceptable.

So, should a resume be one page? Only if all your achievements fit neatly. If it feels crowded, opt for two pages but ensure every word counts. The goal is always to make your resume stand out with impactful content.

How to Make Your Resume Stand Out

Once you understand what to put on a resume, the next step is learning how to make your resume stand out from the pile.

Use Action Verbs

Each bullet should begin with a strong action verb such as "led," "built," "increased," or "streamlined."

Quantify Achievements

Back up your statements with numbers. Hiring managers love data.

Tailor Each Resume

Customize the summary, skills, and even job descriptions to match the job posting. That’s how to make your resume stand out.

Choose the Right Format

Chronological is the gold standard, but functional or hybrid formats may suit those changing industries or returning to the workforce.

Include a Portfolio or Links

Link to your work samples or GitHub if you're in a creative or tech field. It’s a great way to make your resume stand out and to enhance your personal branding.

Is It Illegal to Lie on a Resume?

Many ask, "Is it illegal to lie on a resume?" The short answer: Yes, it can be.

Falsifying job titles, education, or certifications can lead to:

• Immediate disqualification
• Job termination
• Legal action in extreme cases

So, is it illegal to lie on a resume? Absolutely. Honesty is key if you want to build trust with potential employers and ensure long-term career success.

Final tips before sending your resume

• Proofread: Spelling or grammar errors can get your resume tossed.
• Save as PDF: Preserves formatting.
• Use a professional file name: e.g., James_Bond_Resume_2025.pdf
• Ask for feedback: A fresh pair of eyes always helps.

Thinking carefully about what to put on a resume and how to make your resume stand out will boost your chances of landing interviews.

Conclusion

Knowing exactly what to put on a resume is essential in today’s job market. From your contact info and work experience to certifications and skills, each section plays a role in making your resume stand out.

Whether you're wondering, "should a resume be one page?", "how many bullet points per job on resume?", or even "what does a good resume look like?", this guide provides clear answers and practical tips.

Above all, be honest. Never lie—remember, is it illegal to lie on a resume? Yes. Stay truthful and confident.

Now that you know what to put on a resume, take the time to customize your application for each role. You have the tools to succeed. Use them wisely, and you'll see your job search turn into job success.