how to write resume title

• Career Development

What Is a Good Resume Title in 2024? (+30 Examples)

12 min read

Your resume title is the first thing you should list under your name and contact information. It’s different from your job title. This is an opportunity to introduce your professional self in a snappy line or two of attention-grabbing, highly relevant, and keyword-optimized text.

A good resume title in 2024 (also referred to as a resume headline) should make the perfect first impression. Most people don’t include one, so it can be really effective if you use the right headline. It will resonate and set you apart from the competition. 

The best resume headlines are specific to your industry and include what makes you a great hire. This post includes more than 30 industry-specific resume titles compiled by our team of professional resume writers. You can use this list to navigate directly to your industry or job function for some examples of effective resume titles.

Engineering

Trade Worker

What is a resume title, exactly?

A resume title or headline is a short statement on your resume that includes some core skills or achievements. Your resume title should be a short introduction of your professional self. Usually used to preview the resume summary , it is a condensed one-liner that sums up who you are and where you've succeeded.

Example: Resume Title: Top Ranked Sales Manager with 7 Years’ Experience

A resume title should be located at the top of your resume, above your resume summary but below your contact information.

The goal of a resume headline is to sum up your skills and years of experience into a short phrase that will stand out and show the potential employer exactly what you have to offer.

It also allows you to list relevant or required certifications and licenses on your resume . This quickly tells the employer that you’re qualified for the position.

Resume headline and title examples by industry

In summation: your resume title is super important. When it comes to formatting, the career experts at ZipJob highly suggest using something similar to our example above. But, what about the wording?

A good resume title often includes your target job title, your key skills, your qualifications, and/or your years of experience. You can also include your awards, industry, or specializations.

Here are a bunch of resume headline examples from our professional resume writers, organized by industry:

Resume titles for Accounting

Certified Public Accountant with 9 Years Experience in Auditing

Flexible Accountant who Adapts to Evolving Accounting Best Practices

CPA with 3 years experience in budget forecasting and tax planning

Resume titles for Arts

Graphic Designer with Massive Client Base and Beautiful Portfolio

Art Therapist with 8 years combined Experience

Artist with 3 Years of Acknowledged Experience Including Gallery Features

Resume titles for Engineering

Dedicated Civil Engineer Skilled in all Phases of Engineering Operations

Passionate Automotive Engineer with Design Expertise

Highly Efficient Chief Engineer for Large-Scale Residential Properties

Creative Entry-Level Engineer Providing Insightful Support

Resume titles for Finance

Portfolio Manager with Fortune 500 Experience

Financial Adviser with Proven Track Record

Bank Operations Expert with 10 years’ Experience

Resume titles for Marketing

Experienced Marketing Manager Specializing in Non-Profit Industry

Marketing Specialist with 10 years’ experience in Cosmetics

Digital Marketing Professional who excels in data analysis, social media marketing, and online brand management

Resume titles for Nursing

Emergency Room Nurse with Experience in Urgent and High Volume Settings

Registered Nurse with Experience Treating a Wide Variety of Patients with Diverse Care Needs

Certified Nursing Assistant with 7 years’ Experience Caring for Elderly

Resume titles for Sales

Top Ranked Sales Manager with 7 years’ experience

Bilingual Sales Professional with Experience in Management

Sales Executive with Experience in Technology Industry

Customer Service Rep, Extensive Healthcare Experience

Resume titles for Technology

Java Engineer with 5 years Full Stack Experience

Full Stack Web Developer with Management Experience

Developer and Project Manager with Leadership Experience

IT Specialist: Network Installations, Data Migrations, Data Recovery

Resume titles for Trade Worker

Welding Specialist with Extensive Experience using Torch, Plasma and Stick Weld

Warehouse Product Coordinator with 10 Years’ Experience

Security Guard on High Alert, Maintaining Consistently Excellent Coverage

View 200+ more professional resume samples for all industries, along with a guide to writing resumes from our career experts.

What makes a resume title so effective?

Resume headlines are really important for three reasons.

1. It’s one of the first things a potential employer will see

Though located after your name and your contact info, the resume headline is the first thing that describes your fit for the job. Hiring managers and employers spend about six seconds scanning your resume. The best way to control what they see is to lay out your resume correctly. This means using resume headers and sections correctly . No header is more important than the very first one.

To put it bluntly, if hiring managers love the title, it’s way more likely they will read on. If the title is bland or nonexistent, you’ll have missed the opportunity to stand out from the crowd as the perfect candidate. The crowd doesn’t land the interview: the individuals do!

Look at the following two headers.

This is a very well-constructed resume title with awesome keyword usage that really sends a strong message:

Full Stack Web Developer | Software Engineer | Project Manager

Stakeholder Management | Web Application | Team Leadership

Compare the above example with this, a lazy and short resume title that does nothing more than simply name a previous title:

Project Coordinator

As you can see, it’s possible to write a resume headline that is short and concise while still conveying a robust message. By simply putting the name of a single position, you are limiting yourself in the scope of employment opportunities you can seek out.

Remember, the job market is ever-changing. You want to present yourself as dynamic and multi-talented. By introducing yourself as a professional with a larger scope of expertise, you will open countless more doors.

2. It will help your resume get past applicant tracking systems (ATS)

Due to the huge number of applicants in the modern job market, over 90% of resumes use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to scan resumes before they reach a hiring manager.

Applicant Tracking Systems scan for keywords, often parsing a resume using its headers. Since the ATS is so prevalent these days, it’s incredibly important to tailor your resume to pass the systems!

That’s where your awesome resume title will help you. If formatted correctly, the ATS will be able to read your headers and present your relevant keywords to the hiring manager.

To make sure your resume passes an ATS test, take advantage of ZipJob’s free resume review !

3. It is a great place to use keywords

Using keywords effectively in your resume title will hugely increase your chances of landing an interview.  Let’s take another look at the awesome resume header we saw above:

This time, think about all the keywords present in this resume title. As you may have guessed, the words used in the title should always match the words used in the job description. This title would be great for multiple job descriptions from “Full Stack Web Developer” to “Project Manager.”

If during your job search you plan on sending out dozens of quick-fire applications , this is your best bet. Similarly, if you are posting your resume online or submitting it as anything other than a response to an open job, you might want to take a broad approach.

However, if you are targeting a very specific listing, you want to change your strategy slightly.

Instead of including an array of words that may fit the array of opportunities you are seeking, scan the job listing and tailor your resume title accordingly. If the listing puts a big emphasis on project management, be sure to add that to the title. If it focuses on communication, put that up there.

You don’t want to miss an opportunity because you didn’t tailor your resume to pass the applicant tracking system.

Read our complete guide on exactly how to use keywords on your resume .

Tips for writing a strong resume title

When you’ve spent your career as a Project Manager, it can be tempting to simply put that at the top of your resume. But, as we’ve iterated, doing so won’t serve you very well. You need to put some time into crafting a compelling headline for your resume. Here are some tips you should follow to ensure that your resume title stands out from the crowd and piques the hiring manager’s interest enough to call you for a coveted interview spot:

Specificity is critical

Yes, you want your headline to give some clues as to your skills, achievements, and qualifications, but you need to keep the text on one or two lines of your resume. This isn’t the place to write a long, drawn-out narrative about your history. The idea is to grab the reader’s attention so that they want to read more of your resume. Avoid putting a long blurb that they have to actually read . Instead, put a few words that they can glance at to get the gist of what you have to offer. 

While specificity helps to keep the message to a minimum, it also ensures that you are delivering a poignant message. General titles like “Manager” don’t add value to your resume. They are too vague and tell employers nothing about what you have to offer their company. 

Tailor it to the job description 

Also, your resume title shouldn’t be only about you and your history. Your entire resume should be outward-facing – meaning, it has to show the hiring manager what you can do for them and their team. This is where it’s important to remember to include keywords from the job description. You may be a “Project Manager with 10+ Years of Experience” but if the job description specifically mentions that the position is for a Project Manager who can lead diverse teams, it would be a better idea to include a bit about team leadership in your title. That would look something like this, “Project Manager Dedicated to Mentoring Junior Team Members.” You can bring up the part about having over 10 years of experience in your summary paragraph. 

Use action verbs

When you’re writing your resume, it’s crucial to portray yourself as an achiever rather than a doer. One of the best ways to do this is to show action. Including action verbs in your title conveys a sense of purpose in your experiences, indicating that you take your positions seriously and convey important skills like leadership. Action also makes your overall resume more engaging which further helps you stand out from the crowd. 

Grab their attention

Since your title is supposed to be about how your history aligns with what the company needs, you can use some of the space in the title to wow the hiring manager with accolades from your past. Compound adjectives at the beginning of your title can help your entire resume message start on solid footing. It can be difficult for some people to talk about achievements because of the fear of coming across as too boastful, but if you’ve won awards, mention that in your title. Write something like, 

“Award-Winning Graphic Designer Passionate About Turning Ideas into Tangible Branding Pieces.”  

“Top-Performing Account Manager with a History of Exceeding Goals.”

Prospective employers love the idea of getting someone on their team who can showcase standout qualities because they know that those types of contributions can help their team achieve company goals and foster a positive work environment. 

Avoid cliches

Some cliche phrases may seem like safe choices – like “team player,” “hard-working,” and “results-oriented.” These phrases are overused and usually garner nothing more than an eye-roll from hiring managers who are tired of seeing them. You’d be better served by coming up with something more original and specific to create a meaningful resume title. Remember, your goal is to impress hiring managers, not bore them. A little creativity and thoughtfulness go a long way to presenting your personal brand in a way that makes you memorable. 

Avoid exaggerating your skills, achievements, and experiences in your title in the name of making an impression or injecting relevant keywords. If you’ve never mentored any team members, then leave that off. If you haven’t won any awards or been recognized as a top performer then exclude that, too. Just because a manager in your past has told you that you did a great job on something, doesn’t mean that you were recognized as a top performer . Also, if you’re working on a credential, like a CPA licensure, but haven’t quite finished it, don’t claim the credential in your title

You don’t want to lose credibility just because you put a couple of words on your resume that were less than true. If you get to the point where you’re being offered a position, your application is likely to be put through a background check . Red flags that pop up during the background check can put your application into an invalid status which could cause you to get ghosted by the company. 

Proofread and edit

It’s just a title – do you really need to bother proofreading it? Yes, yes you do! Here’s some homework for you: go to LinkedIn and search for the word “manger.” How many profiles do you see with “manager” misspelled? This misspelling is happening in the headline – the first thing someone sees. So, take some time to read your title to make sure nothing is incorrect.

First impressions matter

Your resume title will be the thing that first catches the hiring manager’s eye. So, make sure it’s amazing! Follow our basic principles and tips, take a look at some of the resume headline examples and you should have a great idea of what it takes to really stand out for the job you’re applying for.

Are you still not sure what your resume title should be? Look at ZipJob's resume writing services . We have more than 100 professional resume writers ready to help you update your resume's title, format, and content. 

Recommended reading:

7 Resume Headers and Sections You Need (+ Examples)

Top 10 Tips To Get Your Resume Past ATS Scans

Core Competencies Section on a Resume

Marsha Hebert, Professional Resume Writer

Marsha is a resume writer with a strong background in marketing and writing. After completing a Business Marketing degree, she discovered that she could combine her passion for writing with a natural talent for marketing. For more than 10 years, Marsha has helped companies and individuals market themselves. Read more advice from Marsha on ZipJob's blog .

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The Right Way to List Job Titles on Your Resume in 2024

Listing your jobs correctly on your resume is a must. In this guide, you will learn how to appropriately list your job title and catch the eye of the recruiter.

Your job titles on your resume are important. They help relay to employers your roles and responsibilities. Listing your job titles can also help to show professional progression!

We will cover how to properly list your job titles on a resume and the importance of doing so.

Beautiful resume templates to land your dream job

What is the Job Title Section of Your Resume and Why is it Important?

When it comes to job titles on a resume, there are two main areas of your resume to place title in:

• A dedicated job title section
• Your work experience section

Understanding how these two types of sections differ is key.

In this section, we will break down the differences to help you gain a better understanding of what “job titles” can mean and where to put them.

Making a Job Title Section for the Job You are Seeking

A job title section on a resume is a short section used to identify the specific role you are currently seeking.

This is a key element to add to a resume, especially if you face high competition for the role.

For example, let’s say you are a culinary professional looking for a head chef position at a high-end restaurant. Your job title section may look something like this:

John Doe Head Chef with over 10 years experience in fine dining.  

In this example, the applicant lists the role they wish to maintain.

They also provide a very brief statement describing their experience level.

Typically, you will find this section listed directly below the name or contact information of the applicant.

This should be a concise statement that conveys who you are and the position you seek.

It is important to note that this section is not the same as a professional objective or summary statement.

Professional objectives are often a bit longer and more in-depth, while a job title section should be as succinct as possible.

Listing Job Titles in a Work Experience Section

The second type of job title that you can incorporate into a resume is the job title of a previous position.

Generally, these job titles will be in the work experience section.

There are some key elements to keep in mind when listing your previous job titles on a resume:

• Does the job title clearly relay your role and responsibilities?
• Do you have multiple titles at the same company that show promotion and professional progression?
• Are you using the exact title given at the job or have you changed it?

The key to listing your job titles is to always be honest.

Job titles within a work experience section are one of the first things an employer will see, so using the correct titles is crucial.

Need more help writing your work experience section? Check out our guide on How to Describe Work Experience on a Resume!

‍ Is There a Right Way to List My Job Titles?

There are several different ways to list job titles on a resume.

Despite this, there are a few key factors that separate correct job titles from incorrect ones.

Here are a few examples to help you determine the “right” way to list your job titles on a resume:

Example 1: Making your job title section relevant and concise

John Doe Seeking a job in management, communications, or marketing.

Why It’s Wrong: In this example, there are several issues. The applicant lists fields they would like to work in, rather than giving themselves an exact job title they are seeking. Additionally, listing multiple types of jobs will hinder your job title from being as relevant as possible to the job you are applying to.

John Doe Marketing Manager with 7+ years experience in the financial industry

Example 2: Placing your job titles in the correct order

Office Assistant, Black and Decker June 2019 – June 2020 Description Office Manager, Tennessee Valley Authority July 2020 – Present Description ‍

Why It’s Wrong: You always want to put your highest positions first. By listing your more prominent job title lower in your work experience section, you risk the hiring manager missing it entirely. ‍

Office Manager, Tennessee Valley Authority July 2020 – Present Description ‍ Office Assistant, Black and Decker June 2019 – June 2020 Description

Example 3: Avoiding dishonest or misleading job titles

For this example, imagine you are a restaurant worker with some management responsibilities.

Your title given by your boss may be “shift lead” or “keyholder.”

General Manager, Mellow Mushroom August 2019 – June 2020 Description

Why It’s Wrong: While you may have management responsibilities, the title “General Manager” implies you are a salaried, full-time manager. If this is not the case, using General Manager as your job title is both dishonest and misleading.

Shift Lead, Mellow Mushroom   August 2019 – June 2020 Description

‍ Can I Change My Job Title to More Accurately Describe My Role?

Sometimes, a job applicant may feel like a previous job title does not accurately describe their role or responsibilities.

This may compel them to want to change the title to better explain their experience and qualifications.

However, as we have covered, changing a job title too much can make it dishonest or misleading.

Plus, a hiring manager may contact your previous employer and find out you changed your title.

This can result in hiring managers throwing your application entirely!

In some cases, the company you work for may assign you a job title that is unique to the company.

For example, a restaurant may call its shift leaders “community leaders.”

While this may work within the company itself, it may not translate well on a resume.

If this is a situation you are dealing with, the best course of action would be to discuss with your previous employer beforehand if possible.

This way, if the hiring manager contacts your previous employer they will know why you are being referred to with a different title.

The key to getting around vague job titles is to be concise and specific in your job descriptions.

This is where you can showcase your responsibilities and provide more accurate information.

Are you struggling to find compelling ways to describe your work experience? Take a look at our list of 350+ Action Verbs to Make Your Resume More Effective !

Is it Ever Okay to Change My Job Title?

Generally speaking, you should avoid changing your job titles.

This will help you to keep consistency between your resume and LinkedIn profile, and with your references.

The biggest reason to consider changing your job title is if you believe it will be a hindrance for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

ATS software looks for specific keywords, such as “manager” or “assistant.”

If the job title contains words such as “lead,” “head,” or other vague terms, this could be problematic.

The key to changing your job title is to use replacement words that are synonymous with the original terms.

You never want to use a job title that portrays you as higher up than you actually are.

How Should I List My Job Titles to Get Noticed by the Hiring Manager?

Your job titles have a major role to play in your resume.

They not only convey your work experience, but they also help to give you an edge on the competition if listed properly.

Of course, there are better job titles than others in the eyes of hiring managers.

The key is to relay how your job titles make you the most qualified candidate for the job.

Let’s cover the 3 key factors keep in mind when listing jobs titles on a resume:

• ‍ Relevance: The job titles that appear first on your resume should be the most relevant ones to the job you are applying to. Though you also need to keep in mind the timeliness of a past position, listing your most relevant job titles first will showcase your qualifications for the job. ‍
• Responsibilities: Once you have listed your job title, you need to list your most prominent responsibilities in the description. These descriptions should be bulleted and as concise as possible. They should help to tie into your job title and provide greater clarity about your role. ‍
• Recognition: Higher-level job titles such as “manager” hold more weight with employers. Choosing recognizably important job titles is crucial. It helps to show hiring managers you are capable of professional progression as well.

Tips for Landing the Job You’re Applying For

Aside from prioritizing your best job titles, there are a few key elements of your job title and work experience sections to consider.

These include:

• ‍ Formatting: As you write your resume, you want to ensure your headings and titles have the same format. Consistency gives your resume a better visual flow and makes it easier for hiring managers to skim through it quickly. ‍
• Keywords: When applying to a job, always comb through the job description for keywords. Including these keywords in your work experience section will help to show hiring managers that you pay attention! ‍
• Clarity: Job titles are short – typically between one to two words. As such, providing as much clarity as possible in your descriptions is paramount. Always include your primary responsibilities and achievements within the role!

There are many different elements of your resume to consider when trying to get noticed by employers. Read our guide on How to Write the Perfect Resume for more tips!

‍ How Do I List Multiple Jobs from the Same Company?

If you have worked at a company for several years, chances are you have had a promotion or two.

This means that you will have multiple job titles coming from the same business!

When listing multiple jobs at the same company on a resume, there are two main formatting options:

• ‍ Stacked Entries: A stacked entry is a singular entry that stacks your job titles. Typically, you will put the most important and recent job title first and primarily describe that title. This is to show promotions while avoiding writing entries that are too similar. ‍
• Separate Entries: If you worked many positions with different responsibilities, use separate entries. Separate entries allow you to fully describe each job title individually.

Stacked Entries Example

Here is an example of a well-formatted stacked entry:

KPMG Senior Consultant, January 2020 – Present Junior Consultant, December 2018 – December 2020 Description

This example lists the company first with the stacked job titles beneath. 

The most recent and highest-level job title is directly below the company name.

When using a stacked entry, be sure to be consistent in how you format your other entries.

If you start one entry with the company name, aim to start all the entries similarly.

Separate Entries Example

Here is an example of when to use separate entries.

In this example, imagine the candidate is applying for a role as a Lead Marketer:

Marketing Manager , The Coca-Cola Company February 2019 – Present Description Communications Coordinator , The Coca Cola Company October 2018 – January 2019 Description

While these titles may share some similarities, they ultimately have different responsibilities.

However, both roles fall within the same general industry, making them both relevant to the job application.

This makes it useful to include both as separate entries!

Should I Put the Job Title I’m Applying for on My Resume?

Yes! You should always consider adding a dedicated job title section that lists the job title you are seeking.

This is especially true if the job title relays a specialization, such as a DevOps Engineer. 

Additionally, if you are adding a general resume to a LinkedIn profile, having a job title section helps potential employers find you!

Omitting a job title section may be preferable for jobs that are lower- or entry-level.

Do I Have to List All of My Job Titles?

Whether or not to list all of your job titles depends on both the relevance and available space on your resume.

Listing too many job titles can result in a cramped visual appearance, making your resume harder to read.

This is not ideal, as hiring managers will typically want to be able to skim through the resume quickly for the most important details.

When choosing job titles to include, ask yourself:

• Is each of these titles relevant to the job I am applying to?
• Does including these titles show promotion or professional growth?

Final Takeaways

The job titles you include on your resume can have a major impact on a hiring manager’s impression of you.

Here are 5 key takeaways to remember about job titles:

• Job title sections should clearly list the job you are seeking. Place this section close to your name and be as concise as possible.
• Job titles should appear in both a dedicated section and within a work experience section.
• Avoid changing your job titles when possible. If you do need to change a vague or unique title, try contacting that employer beforehand to alert them of the change.
• When listing multiple jobs at the same company, use stacked entries for jobs with similar responsibilities. Use separate entries when the responsibilities differ significantly.
• Keep your formatting consistent! If you start one entry with the company name, start all other entries with the company name as well.

At Easy Resume, we strive to help you create the resume that will land you your dream job.

Don’t forget to check out our extensive collection of free resume examples and guides while you’re here!

Browse more resume templates that fit your role

Ed is a co-founder of Easy Resume. His background in scaling teams at tech startups over the last decade has given him extensive experience and knowledge around how to hire top talent and build successful teams. He enjoys mentoring, coaching, and helping others reach their career goals. When he's not writing about career-related advice, he's playing with his dog, Lilo, or going on long hikes in upstate New York.

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How To Write A Resume Title (Plus Headline Examples)

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A resume title may be what your resume needs to stand out from the crowd. Including an attention-grabbing snippet that highlights what you bring to the table can help overwhelmed hiring managers notice and remember your resume, which only improves your chances of getting hired.

If you’re a job seeker looking for ways to make your application stand out, keep reading: We’ll go over why a resume title is important, how to write a snappy resume title, and examples of resume titles.

Key Takeaways:

A resume title is a concise statement that declares your top skills and qualifications.

Resume titles help readers immediately know what you have to offer.

Place your most valuable skills related to the job position in the resume title.

Resume titles are different than resume profiles, which are sections that give a breakdown of your skills.

What is a resume title?

Why resume titles are important

How to write a title for a resume, example resume titles, tips for writing a resume headline, resume headlines vs. resume profiles, examples of resume titles with resume summaries, resume titles faq.

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A resume title (also called a resume headline) is one or two sentences that serve as an introduction of your resume and, by extension, who you are as a candidate.

This is different from your job title — a job title is the name of the role you are currently in or are targeting.

A resume title is also different from your resume summary statement . While both are located at the top of your resume, the headline is an eye-catching line that sums up your experience, while a summary statement is a paragraph that provides specific details of your skillset.

Resume titles are important because they quickly communicate your qualifications, help you pass ATSs, and make you more memorable to hiring managers.

Resume titles quickly communicate your qualifications. As one of the first pieces of information a recruiter sees, a title immediately describes why you are an ideal fit for the position.

This encourages the hiring manager to take a second look at your resume, since they can see that you meet the initial qualifications. This is especially important if you have with limited experience , as you can use the headline to showcase your top skills or accomplishments related to the desired job.

Resume titles help you pass applicant tracking systems (ATS). With the right keywords, your headline can increase the likelihood of your resume passing through applicant tracking systems that do automatic parsing.

These programs sort resumes based on keywords found throughout the job description, so including some of these at the top of your resume boosts your chances of making it through to a human reader .

Resume titles help make you more memorable to hiring managers. A resume headline clearly conveys your biggest strengths and most relevant experience , which will stick in the hiring manager’s mind better than if they had to dig through your whole resume to find them.

In addition, if you have years of work history, the headline creates focus and quickly tells hiring managers why you are ideal for this role.

To write a resume title, research the position you’re applying for, then identify your top relevant qualifications. Once you have those, craft them into a short snippet.

Here is a step-by-step checklist on how to write your resume title:

Understand the position. The best place to begin with writing your headline does not involve writing at all. You should instead start by researching the job title that you are applying for.

Identify your relevant top selling points. Once you understand what the job is looking for, identify which two or three skills, accomplishments, or experiences are the perfect match for the role’s requirements.

For example, if the job description prioritizes a specific certification that you have, mention that in your resume title. If it mentions the word “experienced,” over and over, include your eight years of experience.

Write and rewrite. Set a timer for two minutes and brainstorm as many resume titles as you can in that time. Then go back and rework your favorites until you have the perfect one.

If you need help starting, ask yourself how you would describe your professional self to a hiring manager in two sentences, then slowly cut that down to one phrase.

Put it at the top of your resume. Your headline will go right below your name and basic contact details, before diving into the bulk of your resume. This makes it easy for hiring managers to find both the first time they read your resumeand when they’re trying to remember who you are later.

Use title case. Your resume title is just that — a title. So, capitalize the first and last words, as well as all nouns, adjectives, and verbs. Words over four letters long should also be capitalized, no matter what part of speech they are.

Writing your resume title in bold will also help it stand out.

Check it for keywords and cliches. Make sure you’re using verbiage similar to the job description, and leave out overused phrases like, “Highly skilled” that don’t mean anything. The hiring manager can read your resume to decide if you’re highly skilled or not — use your resume title to show them what your skills are.

Here are a few resume headline examples for you to look at as you write your own resume title. Remember that these are just meant to help guide you, as you will want your resume title to be 100% original.

Experienced resume title examples

Innovative Software Developer with 3+ Years Experience in Java Product Development Coordinator with Proven Revenue Growth in Cloud-Enabled Applications Human Resources Manager with 15+ Years of Recruiting Experience in Fortune 500 Companies Business Procurement Specialist with Experience Growing and Scaling Private Sector Teams Marketing Specialist with Experience Growing eCommerce Stores from 1K to 500K Visits/Month Mechanical and Aerospace Engineer with 8 Years Experience in Private Sector Jet Engines Social Media Manager Who Improved Engagement by 25% in 6 Months

Entry-level and career-change resume title examples

Proactive Professional Open to New Managerial Opportunities Customer Service Agent Skilled in Data-Entry and Transcription Recent College Graduate and Recipient of A.B. Langston Leadership Award Bilingual Graduate with 95 WPM Typing Speed and Tutoring Experience Analytical Professional with Advanced Proficiency in Excel Hard-Working Licensed RN and Outstanding Nursing Student Award Recipient Licensed Teacher with 20 Years Laboratory Research Experience

Seasoned Retail Associate with Key Holder and Training Experience Sales Representative with 5 years of Experience, Specializing in Health Care Regional Manager who Increased Territory Revenues by 58% Personable Daycare Provider with Accreditation and Special Education Experience Veteran Marketing Professional who Scaled Startup Growth by 82% Award-Winning Author with 7 Years Experience in Self-Publishing and Marketing Eager College Graduate with Teaching Assistant Experience Focused in Meteorology Graphic Designer with 10 Years Experience at Ad-Tech Companies Freelance Writer with SEO Certification

Here are some tips for writing your resume titles:

Declare your skillset, not your intent. Your resume headline is an opener to who you are, versus a resume objective statement that states what type of employment you are seeking.

Keep it relevant. If you are applying for an engineering position, you would not want your headline to focus on your years of customer service experience.

Don’t reuse titles. Just as we strongly advise against submitting the same exact cover letter to each potential employer, the same goes for your resume headline.

Keep length in mind. Your resume title should be less than one sentence long.

Remember keywords. Keywords help in several ways, and one is by serving as flags to recruiters. When employers look at resumes, they are automatically looking for specific skills mentioned throughout the job description.

Highlight what’s most valuable first. Since recruiters scan resumes quickly, structure your headline with the most important details first.

Make it unique. Try to avoid clichés at all costs. Saying that you are “highly organized” will not differentiate your resume from a pool of others, and it does not tell the employer how you have proven to be organized.

While the headline is short and just one sentence, your resume profile (or summary) is a section that gives a breakdown of your skills. Job seekers can make this a bulleted list or a paragraph highlighting relevant qualifications .

If you include both a headline and profile, the latter will come after and will not be capitalized. You also do not need to bold this section as you would your resume title.

If you’re curious as to how to add both a headline and summary to your resume, here are examples across several industries:

Resume title and summary HR example

Director of HR with 10 Years Experience in Technology Sector Highly productive in developing and executing training protocols across all company verticals. Global human resources certificates with international team experience. Certified in Oracle and led implementation of technology audits for 500+ employees. Masterful in selecting and retaining top talent, with a 98% employee retention rate over the last 24 months.

Resume title and summary social media example

Social Media Consultant Assisting Startups Grow Online Presence and Drive More Sales Over 5 years of experience transforming the social media reach of small businesses. Responsible for creating social media strategies that increase lead generation with various SEO optimization techniques. Amassed more than 3M followers across Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for clients across health, fashion, and food industries.

Resume title and summary retail manager example

Confident Retail Manager with 6 Years of High-Volume Store Experience Results-driven manager producing the highest-grossing store in the district. Responsible for talent management, resource allocation, and merchandising efforts. Analysis of annual budget resulted in implementing an action plan to improve loss prevention efforts and reduce shrinkage.

A resume title is a short statement at the beginning of your resume that declares your skills and qualifications. A resume title needs to entice the reader, so it is important that you keep your resume title unique, concise, and relevant. It is helpful if your title relates to the job you’re applying to. A great way to do this is to use keywords found in the job description.

Are resume titles necessary?

Strictly speaking, no, resume titles are not necessary, but they are very helpful. A resume title acts as a teaser to the rest of your resume. A resume title done well will make it clear right away to the reader that you are a candidate who deserves further attention. This helps you stand out among other applicants.

What’s the difference between a resume headline and a resume title?

A resume headline is the same thing as a resume title. A resume headline is just another way to describe a heading at the start of your resume that concisely states your qualifications. Just remember to keep it unique and relevant.

How do you write a good title for a resume?

You write a good title for a resume by understanding the position you’re applying for and highlighting your relevant qualifications. Incorporating keywords from the job description will also help you write an effective resume title.

Columbia University Center for Career Education – How to Write a Resume Profile or Summary Statement

Harvard University – Resumes and Cover Letters

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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• Career Advice >

How to Write a Resume Title or Headline with Examples

Resume Title is a brief phrase that condenses your core competencies and technical background to make you perfect for the position offered. Place the title of your resume on top of the page, underneath the name, designation and contact information.

Guide to Write a Perfect Resume Title

Have you ever been lured by an attractive headline in a newspaper or online ads? Learning the right way to spike your resume title also magnetizes the recruiter’s attention right away!

A bold and technically sound resume title comprises of technical keywords that positions you as an exceptional candidate for the job offered. The resume title meaning is to make the manager find the relevant skills and experiences that make you the best candidate quickly. Hence, you must be clear in your motive, and impressive enough to the reader for outwitting the other candidates.

The golden point to remember is that the lack of a good resume title and subtitle coaxes the manager to dig into your resume haphazardly and most probably, end up without citing your best skills!

To create a perfect resume headline , begin by using your previous resume as a rough draft for self-assessment to do the following-

1. Analyze the Job Description

Comprehending the keywords and the responsibilities sought by the employer in the job description gives you a clear idea of what you need to propose in order to qualify for the position. Review the job description multiple times and note down core keywords and technical duties to include in your resume headline.

2. Find your Key Skills Relevant to the Job

You must find and condense the core competencies from your past that compels the reader to explore your resume ahead. Keeping your focus on the core technical skills that match the job description is your aim of referring to skills in the resume title.

3. Mark your Relevant Accomplishments in Past Jobs

Every technical skill adds in your resume title model must have a solid-background of professional experience that complements it. Hiring managers are impressed with Resume titles in one line that briefly lists multiple achievements relevant to the job.

4. Your Creative Quotient that can Profit the Employer

A resume heading that highlights your Creative Expertise in the industry also impresses the hiring manager, proves your competency and outsmarts the other candidates. Your prior flexible and remote work experience during crucial times can emphasize your technical proficiency as a contender for the title of the resume.

5. Research Diversely and Intensively

It is imperative that you collect a diverse variety of resume samples to write a unique resume that drafts a competent profile in the eyes of the manager. Hence, you must decide on one consistent format, style or tone that fits your career graph and resume.

Examples of Top Resume Titles That Gets Noticed

As your motive is to present an attractive resume title that outwits others and overwhelms the manager, the following examples of adjectives, technical terminologies and structure of resume headers will expand your comprehension.

Resume title ideas from sample formats will train you to write catchy resume title that gets you the job.

1. Deadline-Driven IT Manager with 7+ Years Experience in IT Forensics and Viral Marketing 2. Bi-Lingual Tuition Teacher skilled in High School Mathematics and Science Crash Courses 3. Multi-faceted Sous Chef with Offshore Hotel and Catering Experience 4. Compassionate and Energetic Nursing Graduate with Two Papers Published in National Nursing Journal 5. Hardworking Engineer with a Proven Record of Designing Residential Buildings in Risk Zones 6. Successful Data Architect with 5+ Years Experience in Database Design and Modelling 7. Amicable Sales Representative with Linguistics Degree and 3+ Years as Receptionist for L’Oreal New York 8. Multi-faceted Veterinarian with 11+ Years in Rural Villages and Doctorate in Animal Husbandry 9. Attractive and Energetic Theatre Actor with a Record of Award Winning International Performances 10. Army Veteran with Dual Degrees in Law and 5+ Years Experience as State Advocate

Tips to Write an Attractive Resume Headline

A resume is a brief glimpse of your career graph while a resume headline is a gist of your key skills and achievements that make you the perfect professional for the job. Seasoned professionals with extensive experience must condense their skills to make the best resume title that lures the manager to read the rest of your CV.

1. A mix of Personal and Professional keywords

The best way to position you as the best fit for the job in the header is by referring to the specific technical keywords used in the job description by the employer. Adding a personal adjective to the resume header is also excellent for proving your personal passion and commitment towards the profession.

2. Divide your Resume Title into Two Parts

After dividing your resume headline into two parts, you must use the job title in the recruiters’ description as the first part. Here, you must add an adjective that applies to your personal achievements respective to the roles and responsibilities required by the job title. The second part of the resume title must translate the core skills and responsibilities sought by the employer for the job title.

3. Customize the title for every job

Every job demands specific skills that differ from job to job. It is true that customizing your resume title for every job application is daunting, but the same also helps in positioning you as the best candidate for the job.

4. Remove Generic or Cliché words

The motive of a resume title is to outwit the other candidates and answer the responsibilities sought by the employer instantly. For example, adjectives such as “good” or “Able” are derogatory to a professional resume as it makes your competencies sound ordinary without sans highlighting on your exceptional qualities. In lieu, using relevant adjectives such as “Energetic Graduate”, “Strategic Manager” or “Amicable Counselor” will add extra weight to your resume header.

Conclusion If you want to captivate the recruiter’s attention in a moment, a catchy resume title must be a vital part of your resume. As a bonus tip from resume title examples for freshers and experienced candidates, always capitalize your resume title to upgrade its professional points.

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Best Resume Title Examples for 2024

• Jul 20, 2024

A carefully constructed resume title has the power to greatly impact one's job search by catching the eye of recruiters and distinguishing you from other applicants.

In this article, we will examine various resume title examples that can serve as a source of inspiration for your own.

By the end, you'll have a better understanding of how to write a resume title that will assist you in securing your dream job. So let's dive in!

What is a resume title?

The title is the first thing potential employers see , which makes it a crucial component of your resume .

The resume title is a brief yet impactful statement at the top of your resume that highlights your professional identity, key qualifications, and the value you bring to a role.

This line is designed to provide a snapshot of what you can offer and align your skills and experience with the job you're applying for.

An effective title for a resume is concise , relevant , and impactful . It can significantly influence your chances of securing an interview .

• Grab Attention. The resume title serves as your professional headline , grabbing the hiring manager's attention within seconds.
• Summarize Professional Identity. A well-crafted resume title offers a concise overview of your skills and experience, summarizing your professional identity in a few words.

Elements of an effective resume title

1. Relevance

Your resume title should directly relate to the role you're looking to secure. Use industry-specific keywords and phrases that match the job description to show that you are a good fit.

A good title for a resume is short yet informative . It should convey essential details without being overly wordy, typically within one line .

Powerful and specific language should be used to create an impactful title. Avoid vague terms and instead focus on your unique qualifications and skills that make you stand out.

What is a standard resume title?

Usually, titles follow a specific format. They typically include your role/job title , years of experience , and area of expertise .

Standard resume title examples: Customer Support Specialist with strong interpersonal and verbal skills. Experienced Software Engineer skilled in Java programming. Accredited Project Leader with over a decade of experience in construction.

The aim of a typical resume headline is to promptly showcase your most suitable credentials for the position.

What do I put as a title on my resume?

First and foremost, your title should accurately reflect your professional identity and clearly set what position you're willing to get. For example, if you are applying for a marketing role , your title could be "Marketing Specialist" or "Digital Marketing Manager" .

Another option is to use a more general title that encompasses your overall career goals , such as "Experienced Sales Professional" or "Entry-Level Business Analyst" . This can be helpful if you are looking for a job in a new industry or if you have a diverse skill set.

Additionally, consider including any relevant certifications or achievements in your resume title. For instance, if you have a project management certification, you could write "Certified Project Manager" .

Create your professional Resume in 10 minutes for FREE

Where to use the resume title?

Incorporating your title effectively into your resume enhances its impact and clarity.

Here's where you can use the resume title you create:

• Header Section. Place your resume title prominently at the top of your resume, directly below your name and contact information. Use a slightly larger font size or bold formatting to make it stand out.
• Objective or Summary Statement. Include your title for resume as part of your objective statement or professional summary . This reinforces your professional identity and the specific role you are targeting.
• Professional Experience. Throughout your document, align your job roles with your resume title. Ensure consistency in how you present yourself across different sections.
• Skills Section. Highlight skills relevant to your resume title. Use bullet points to list key competencies that reinforce your qualifications for the desired role.

By integrating your resume title strategically throughout your application, you create a cohesive and compelling narrative that effectively communicates your qualifications to potential employers.

Resume examples with titles used in the "Professional Summary" section:

Mirror your resume title in the introduction of your cover letter . This can help demonstrate consistency in your materials and reinforce your suitability for the position.

Resume title examples for any job

To assist you in picking your own headline, here are excellent examples of resume titles to spark your creativity.

Information Technology resume title examples

• Software developer with expertise in Java and Python
• Information security analyst with 3 years of experience in risk management
• IT project manager specializing in Agile methodologies

Healthcare resume title examples Registered nurse with extensive ICU experience Healthcare administrator skilled in policy development and compliance Certified medical assistant with strong patient care skills

Finance resume title examples

• Financial analyst with proficiency in data management and forecasting
• Investment banker specializing in mergers and acquisitions
• Certified public accountant with a focus on corporate taxation

Education resume title examples Teacher assistant with 5+ years of classroom experience in special education Academic coordinator experienced in curriculum development ESL teacher dedicated to language acquisition and cultural integration

Marketing resume title examples

• Digital marketing specialist with a proven track record in website SEO
• Content strategist skilled in social media and content marketing
• Marketing manager with expertise in brand development and campaign coordination

Sales resume title examples High-performing retail cashier exceeding targets consistently Strategic sales director proficient in B2B sales strategies Retail sales manager known for exceptional customer relationship skills

Customer Service resume title examples

• Experienced customer service representative with strong problem-solving abilities
• Customer success manager with expertise in client retention
• Technical support specialist with ITIL certification

Engineering resume title examples Mechanical engineer with proficiency in CAD and FEA software Electrical engineer with extensive knowledge of renewable energy solutions Civil engineer specializing in structural design and project management

Human Resources resume title examples

• HR generalist with expertise in employee relations and compliance
• Talent acquisition specialist with a background in IT recruitment
• HR manager with experience in organizational development

Hospitality resume title examples Experienced waitress with a passion for customer satisfaction Detail-oriented Hostess ensuring memorable guest experiences Organized hotel receptionist with strong administrative skills

Law Enforcement and Security resume title examples

• Dedicated police officer ensuring community safety
• Esteemed court judge presiding with wisdom and integrity
• Diligent security guard with vigilance and attention to detail

Leadership and Management resume title examples Proactive team lead skilled in team coordination and project management Experienced retail supervisor ensuring operational excellence Strategic CFO driving financial strategy and business growth

With these great examples as inspiration, you can create a compelling and attention-grabbing title for your resume that is sure to make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

Resume title examples for entry-level

How to title a resume if you have no experience yet? When crafting a title for an entry-level professional or student resume , you need to focus on highlighting relevant skills , academic achievements , and any internship experience that demonstrates your readiness and enthusiasm for the job.

Start by identifying keywords from job postings that match your qualifications, ensuring your title aligns with the specific role you are applying for.

Good resume titles for entry-level professionals: Dynamic marketing assistant with strong social media skills Ambitious junior software developer proficient in Python and Java Detail-oriented entry-level accountant with internship experience in financial reporting Proactive administrative assistant with organizational excellence and office management skills Personable customer service representative with exceptional communication skills Diligent research assistant with experience in data analysis and reporting Creative graphic design intern skilled in Adobe Creative Suite Motivated junior project manager with leadership and team coordination skills Engaging sales associate with a proven track record in retail sales Resourceful human resources assistant with knowledge of recruitment and employee onboarding

Common mistakes in resume titles

Many job seekers inadvertently make mistakes when crafting their resume titles, which can hinder their chances of landing an interview . Let's explore some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

One of the most prevalent errors in resume titles is using generic terms such as "Professional" or "Job Seeker" .

While these titles may seem broad and versatile, they fail to convey specific skills , roles, or industry expertise. For instance, a title like "Professional" does not distinguish you from other applicants or highlight your unique qualifications.

Solution: Opt for a title that directly relates to your skills and the job you are applying for, such as "Digital Marketing Specialist with SEO Expertise" .

Titles that are too long can be overwhelming and may lose the reader's interest. Conversely, titles that are too short may lack essential details about your qualifications.

Finding the right balance in the length of your resume title is crucial. For example, "Financial Analyst with Advanced Data Analysis Skills" is clear and to the point.

Solution: Aim for a concise title that captures the essence of your expertise without unnecessary verbosity.

A title that lacks relevance to the job can confuse hiring managers and may lead them to overlook your application.

Ensure that your resume title aligns with the specific job you are applying for. Tailoring your title to match the role description demonstrates your understanding of the position and its requirements.

Solution: Customize your title by incorporating keywords and skills mentioned in the job posting to make it more compelling and targeted.

Even minor grammar or spelling errors can create a negative impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail.

Always proofread your resume title for typos and other mistakes. A meticulously crafted title reflects your professionalism and commitment to presenting yourself in the best light possible.

Solution: Take the time to review your title carefully and consider asking a trusted friend or mentor to provide feedback.

By being aware of these common mistakes, you can create a well-written title for your resume that presents you in the best light.

Finding the right resume title involves understanding industry norms, keywords, and current trends.

Here are several places to gather resume title ideas.

• Job Descriptions. Review job postings in your target industry to identify common job titles and keywords used by employers.
• Professional Networking Sites. Explore profiles of professionals in your field on LinkedIn or similar platforms to see how they present their job titles.
• Writing Guides. Refer to resume crafting articles and resources that provide examples and tips on crafting effective titles.
• Career Websites. Visit career websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or Monster to browse job listings and see how positions are titled.
• Industry-Specific Publications. Read professional magazines, journals, or websites to stay updated on current job titles and trends.
• Professional Associations. Check websites of relevant professional associations for resources and insights into job titles commonly used in your field.
• Networking Events. Attend conferences or job fairs to interact with professionals and gain insights into job titles and career paths.

By leveraging these resources, you can come up with a variety of resume title ideas tailored to your industry and career goals.

Now you know what title to put on your resume. A thoughtfully crafted headline can make a notable difference in your job-seeking endeavors.

By utilizing the resume title examples and writing tips provided in this article, you can showcase your best skills and align them with employer expectations.

Amanda Baker

Certified Professional Resume Writer

Amanda Baker is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and career coach with over a decade of experience crafting compelling resumes and career marketing tools. As a black resume writer, Amanda brings a distinctive perspective to her work, guided by her commitment to nurturing the next generation of job seekers. Her ultimate goal is to equip young professionals with the skills and knowledge to confidently navigate the competitive job market.

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