How to Create a Resume on Your Computer

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Creating a resume on your computer may seem like a daunting task, but it can actually be quite simple. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a professional resume using the basic tools available on most computers. We'll discuss what your resume should include, how to format it effectively, and how to make sure it stands out to potential employers.

Step 1: Choosing a word processor

The first step in creating a resume is choosing a word processing tool. There are many options available, and some of the most commonly used include Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and LibreOffice Writer. Each of these tools has its own features, but for the purpose of creating a resume, they are all quite capable.

Once you've chosen a word processor, open a new document. This will be the blank canvas on which you'll craft your resume.

Step 2: Setting up the document

Before you start typing, it's important to set up your document correctly. Proper setup will ensure that your resume looks professional and is easy to read.

Here are a few things to consider when setting up your document:

• Margins: Set the margins to 1 inch on all sides. This is a standard margin size that will make your resume look organized.
• Font: Choose a clean and professional font like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri. The font size should be between 10 and 12 points.
• Line spacing: Set the line spacing to 1.15 or 1.5. This will make your text easier to read.

Step 3: Add your personal information

The first section of your resume should include your personal information. This is usually at the top of the page and includes your name, address, phone number, and email address.

Here's an example of what it might look like:

John Doe 123 Main Street City, State ZIP (123) 456-7890 johndoe@example.com

Step 4: Writing the business summary

The professional summary is a brief statement that provides an overview of your skills and experience. This section should be concise and to the point, usually no more than 3-4 sentences.

Here's an example of a business summary:

Dynamic and results-oriented professional with over 5 years of experience in marketing and communications. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, increase brand awareness, and drive business growth. Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Step 5: Listing your work experience

The work experience section is an important part of your resume. This section should list your previous jobs, including job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. Under each job, briefly describe your responsibilities and accomplishments.

Here's an example of listing work experience:

Marketing Manager ABC Company, City, State January 2018 – Present - Developed and executed marketing campaigns that increased sales by 20% - Managed a team of 5 marketing professionals - Analyzed market trends and adjusted strategies to meet changing conditions Assistant Marketing Manager XYZ Company, City, State June 2015 – December 2017 - Assisted in the development of marketing strategies - Coordinated with the sales team to ensure alignment with marketing goals - Conducted market research to identify new opportunities

Step 6: Adding education and certifications

Next, add a section for your education and any relevant certifications. This should include the name of the institution, the degree or certificate obtained, and the dates attended.

Here's an example of listing education:

Bachelor of Science in Marketing University of ABC, City, State Graduated May 2015 Certified Digital Marketing Specialist Digital Marketing Institute Completed December 2016

Step 7: Incorporating skills

The skills section is where you highlight your key skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for. These can include both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (personal attributes).

Here's an example of listing your skills:

Skills: - Digital Marketing - Social Media Management - Content Creation - Project Management - Team Leadership - Communication

Step 8: Adding additional sections (optional)

Depending on your background and the job you're applying for, you may also want to include additional sections such as awards, publications, volunteer experience, or professional affiliations.

Here's an example of how you could add additional sections:

Volunteer Experience: Volunteer Coordinator Community Center, City, State June 2017 – Present - Organized community events and fundraising activities - Managed a team of 20 volunteers Professional Affiliations: Member American Marketing Association January 2016 – Present

Step 9: Formatting and Finalizing Your Resume

Once you've added all the necessary information to your resume, it's time to format it to ensure it looks polished and professional. Here are some tips for formatting your resume:

• Consistency: Make sure the formatting is consistent throughout the document. This includes font size, font type, and spacing.
• Bullet points: Use bullet points to list responsibilities and accomplishments. This makes the information easier to read and helps draw attention to key points.
• Sections: Use section headings (e.g., "Work Experience," "Education") to organize the content. This makes it easier for the reader to find the information they are looking for.

Finally, proofread your resume carefully to make sure it's free of any spelling or grammatical errors. It may also be helpful to have someone else read it over to catch any mistakes you might have made.

Step 10: Save and export your resume

Once you're satisfied with your resume, save the document in a format that's easy to share. The most common formats are PDF and DOCX. PDF is preferred because it preserves formatting and is widely accepted by employers.

To save your document as a PDF, follow these steps:

• In Microsoft Word: Click "File" → "Save As," then select "PDF" from the dropdown menu.
• In Google Docs: Click "File" → "Download," then select "PDF Document (.pdf)" from the list of options.
• In LibreOffice Writer: Click "File" → "Export As" → "Export as PDF."

Once you save your resume as a PDF, it's ready to be presented to potential employers.

Conclusion

Creating a resume on your computer is not a complicated process. By following these steps, you can create a professional and stunning resume that highlights your skills and experience. Remember to keep your resume concise, clear, and relevant to the job you are applying for. Good luck with your job search!

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