Ready to create or update your resume?
Find some quick tips below, and visit the Resume Guide for step-by-step guidance and examples to write or polish your resume.
What is a resume?
A resume is a kind of job application to showcase your strengths, experience, and training. It gives the employer a clear idea of who you are and what you’ve done in your work life—and it’s essential for applying to many jobs.
Why does having a good resume matter?
- Makes a positive first impression
- Highlights your most relevant skills and accomplishments
- Opens doors to interviews and opportunities
- Positions you as a confident, capable candidate
Can I use AI to write my resume?
Yes, you can! Artificial intelligence can help you craft a strong resume, so you’ll stand out to employers. And recent surveys of employers show that most are supportive of candidates using AI to write or edit their resumes. Be sure to edit the draft AI produces so your resume has your “voice” and doesn’t look the same as other candidates’ resumes.
Many free or low-cost AI tools can help write your resume. ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are examples of general AI tools, while there are others that specialize in resumes. Find the best fit for your needs by searching for "AI tools" or "free AI resume tools" and reading the descriptions. Many AI tools offer a free basic version with the option to pay for upgrades. You may want to try several tools.
Here are some prompts you can use to ask an AI tool to create or improve your resume:
- Please read this job description from my current (or past) job and create a resume. Please ask me questions to help strengthen the resume.
- Please ask me questions to help create a resume for a job in (my occupation).
- Please read my current resume and rewrite it to make it stand out to hiring managers.
- Please compare my resume to this job posting and make suggestions for targeting my resume to this position. Please ask me questions about my experience to help strengthen the resume.
What are some quick resume tips?
- Tailor your resume for each job. Match the job description using keywords that reflect your strengths.
- Lead with impact. Use strong action verbs and highlight outcomes (“Increased engagement by 40%” instead of “Responsible for social media”).
- Make it clean and simple. Keep it to one or two pages, use a professional layout, and avoid unnecessary graphics or colors.
- Proofread, then proofread again. Typos and other errors make a negative impression.
- Include your soft skills—especially if the jobs you apply for value communication, collaboration, or adaptability.
- Ready to dive deeper? Explore the Resume Guide for step-by-step guidance on resume formats, writing strategies, and samples.