How to Create a Resume Header
Nov 10 2020
Your resume is made up of different sections, none more important than the other. As a result, it is essential to pay attention to the finer details of a resume, including the resume header. Every small detail matters, and if your resume header is not written well, hiring managers might be tempted to think your resume is unprofessional.
Fortunately, this article below features ways in which you can create and format your resume. However, if you find this process challenging and are looking to save on time, you should consider speaking to a professional resume.
Is The Resume Header Important?
A resume header is a section on your resume that carries essential details for recruiters to reach out to you. This section calls for only relevant information, and its placement will determine the general layout of the CV. It is key that you do not ignore the relevance of this section. The best resume headers can land you a job at your desired firm.
Applicant Tracking Systems and recruiters rely mostly on the layout of your resume to retrieve relevant information. Therefore, having the right format can easily land you an interview. A suitable format of a CV or resume starts at the very top with a creative resume header.
ATS will have a problem retrieving information correctly if you do not arrange your resume correctly. It will present irrelevant information or misinform the employer. A well-organized resume will make it easier to identify for the system. Most hiring managers spend an average of six seconds on a resume and make sure yours stands out and without issues.
What to Put in Resume Header
Most applicants miss great opportunities over small oversights. Keying in the correct information is essential in solidifying your chances of securing the position. Applicants tend to input information that is not relevant or favorable to their cause. Be keen to check on the type of information you are sharing with the potential employer. Here is what you should cover on your header:
- Full Name
- Job Title
- Resume Objective
- Location
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- Website
How to Format a Resume Header
The formatting of a good resume header should be of impeccable standards. Ensure that the header is within one inch on all sides to ease the process of reading. It should also have exceptional fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, or even Calibri.
Here is how you should structure your header for resume:
- Full Name
Your name should be the easiest to see in your resume. Make sure that it is not only correctly written but the most visible. Make sure that you write it in full and that it is the same name across all social media platforms. If the name listed on your different profiles does not match, the recruiter may assume it’s an error.
- Job Title
It is also known as the resume title. The main aim is to present your professional profile to the recruiter. It summarises what you do professionally in less than two words. Most recruiters miss this part as they are concerned with the experience. You can ensure that the font size is big enough to be visible but not as your name. If you have any certifications backing up your title, do not hesitate to include it.
- Resume Objective
This is not a necessary section to add, but it can significantly impact your employability. It gives the recruiter an idea of who you are and whether you are the best for the job. The resume objective describes the goals you aspire to meet for the job you are applying for.
- Location
This can be left out due to privacy issues, but some employers are keen to note your address. This is due to relocation and also convenience, depending on the job description. Instead of disclosing the full address, you can mention the region or city.
- Phone Number
This is the most basic means of contact. Most hiring managers prefer calling you and backing it up with an email for confirmation. Ensure that you use a widely accessible number. Do not key in the present work phone.
- Email Address
This is an efficient way to reach applicants. After inputting your phone number, ensure that your email address is correct. Most professional emails have the last and first names. Do not use your current work email and avoid email ID that uses jargon.
- Website
Having an online portfolio is an added advantage if it’s relevant to the job you want. Make sure that the content is up to date before including a link on your CV. You can also include any of your social media accounts to solidify your achievements.
Most applicants include their LinkedIn accounts, as there are numerous employers on the platform. The professional setup of the account can help you achieve more connections and make your CV appear professional. Before submitting the application, make sure your account is edited and appropriate.
Twitter has also gained a lot of traction in the professional world. If your Twitter profile is relevant to the job you are seeking, do not hesitate to include it. Most positions in the media, whether its journalism, PR, and social media management, will require to see your previous work online.
Bottom Line
Writing the header of resume can be quite a challenge for anyone. However, with the information outlined above, chances are you are already a professional writer. Moist applicants are unaware of their potential and get anxious when applying for a new job; this is normal. Ensure that you equip yourself with the current and relevant information. Make resume headers that stand out to grab attention. You must learn all the basics written above and keep practicing. Before submitting any resume, it is critical that you go through the document one last time. Ensure that you have no spelling mistakes, formatting is correct, and the deadline hasn’t elapsed.
Conclusion
Resume headers are essential to the success of your job application. However, it can be challenging to write or format, especially if you are writing your first resume. As a result, it would be best if you spoke to a professional resume writer to help you with your document.
Having professional help, you go a long way in helping you draft the perfect resume for that particular job. Also, it helps when you can save on time in the process.