Any strong resume sample should help you visualize structure, tone, and emphasis. Use samples as inspiration—not templates—to craft a document that highlights your strengths.
Core Sections Every Resume Should Include
- Clear job objective or summary (tailored to the role)
- Key qualifications (certifications, licenses, specialties)
- Directly relevant skills and accomplishments
- Work history (title, employer, dates, concise impact bullets)
- Education & training (degrees, programs, notable honors)
Choosing the Right Resume Format
Chronological Format
Best if you have steady experience in one field. Organizes roles from most recent to oldest, showing career progression.
Functional Format
Great for career changers or those re-entering the workforce. Emphasizes skills and achievements over dates and job titles.
Combination (Hybrid) Format
Blends both: starts with a skills summary + key wins, followed by a concise, chronological work history.
How to Use Resume Samples (Without Copying)
- Select selectively: Borrow layout ideas and phrasing that match your background; skip what doesn’t.
- Lead with strengths: Place your strongest evidence (metrics, outcomes, credentials) where eyes land first.
- Minimize gaps/weaknesses: Choose a format that reduces emphasis on unrelated roles or time away.
- Tailor for the role: Mirror the job description’s keywords and required competencies.
- Stay original: Your resume’s job is to earn the interview—authenticity reads better than a pasted template.
Extras Many Employers Value
- Industry standards & compliance (e.g., HIPAA, JCAHO) where applicable
- Tools & tech stack (ATS-friendly keywords)
- Awards, publications, presentations, portfolios, or case links
- Community involvement relevant to the role
Quick Final Checklist
- One page (early career) or two (experienced)
- Action verbs + metrics (“Reduced processing time by 22%”)
- Consistent formatting and tense
- ATS-friendly (simple fonts, no text in images)
- Proofread: spelling, punctuation, and dates