Best Resume Examples Listed by Type and Job

This illustration shows how to choose the best resume for you, including chronological resumes which list previous jobs in order; functional resumes which focus on skills and experiences; a combination of both chronological and functional; a targeted resume that is tailored to the specific job; a mini resume that is brief and to the point; and a nontraditional resume like a video resume.
Photo:

 Image by Theresa Ciechi / The Balance

Do you need to write a professional resume? If you’re staring at a blank page and have no idea where to begin, resume examples can help get you started writing a resume that will help you get hired.

We’ve created sample resumes for jobs ranging from entry-level positions to executive and management roles. You’ll find examples for every skill level, many professions, and several different resume formats.

Note

Take notes as you browse the examples. This will help you remember what you like and dislike and which elements you want to include when you begin writing your own.

How to Choose the Best Resume

The first step to writing a great resume is to choose the best type of resume for your work history, experience, and the jobs you're applying for.

How can you choose the right format for you? Keep in mind your strengths and weaknesses as a candidate, and then select the resume type that highlights the former and minimizes the latter. For example, if you have a gap in your work history, you might use a functional resume to emphasize your skills over your linear experience.

Resumes Listed by Type

Comprehensive, Targeted, and Teaser: Every job seeker needs a comprehensive resume with a current and detailed work history, a targeted resume with your most relevant experience, and a one-page teaser showcasing your most in-demand qualifications. 

Chronological Resume: The traditional resume format focuses on your work experience and lists previous jobs in order.

Functional Resume: Focuses on your skills and expertise with less of an emphasis on whicih companies you worked for and when.

Combination Resume: Combines the elements of chronological and functional resumes to highlight both your skills and previous employment.

Targeted Resume: Write a resume tailored to the specific position you're applying for.

Mini Resume: Not everyone in your job search needs see a full-length resume. Use the example to write one that's brief and to the point.

Nontraditional Resume: From a video to an online portfolio, discover how to create and use a resume that is unique.

Resumes With Headlines and Profiles

Every job seeker's experience and goals are different, and it's important to add sections to your resume that highlight what makes you the best candidate. In these resumes, you will find examples of specific sections that can help you direct a hiring manager's attention to what you feel is most important.

Business Resume Examples

Resumes for Executive and Management Positions

Management and executive resumes highlight supervisory experience and business management. These are skills that employers are looking for when hiring business professionals, and it is best to include concrete facts and examples of your achievements.

  • Executive
  • Recruiting Manager

Note

Using numbers to quantify your accomplishments is a terrific way to showcase your achievements on your resume.

More Business Resumes

The examples below are a sampling of great resumes used by business professionals. No matter your skill level or the position you're applying for, these resumes should provide inspiration while writing your own. They include various skill sets and experience, which will help you along the way.

  • Administrative Assistant / Office Manager
  • Administrative/Business Resume
  • Advertising
  • Finance
  • Health Insurance / Finance
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Market Research Analyst

Resumes for Tech Jobs

Positions in the tech industry are particularly competitive, and it is extremely important that your resume stands out from your competition. You need to be specific about your skills, the programs you're proficient with, and it's good if you can give examples of end results as well.

Many resumes in the technology space include a 'Technical Skills' section in which you list every program, language, etc. you know. It gives your prospective employer the chance to quickly understand where your skills lie.

  • Biomedical Engineer
  • Civil Engineer
  • Front End Web Developer
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Information Technology
  • Social Media Manager
  • Software Engineer
  • Tech Contractor
  • Web Developer

Resumes for Education and Human Services Positions

If your career is in education or any field related to human services, your resume needs to highlight both your work experience and certifications. Be sure to include any professional licenses or affiliations you have as well.

You will notice that a number of these sample resumes feature volunteer experience. What you do outside the workplace can have an impact on landing a great job in these fields, so it's worth noting any volunteer work you do.

  • Admissions Counselor
  • Athletic Director
  • Librarian
  • Social Worker
  • Special Education Teacher
  • Teacher
  • Tutor

Resumes for Healthcare

Careers in healthcare, require technical skills as well as patient interaction and both should be highlighted in your resume.

Note

Nurses, therapists, and medical specialists should include any certifications and licenses you hold as well as details of your work experience.

Volunteer experience is also a nice addition to healthcare resumes because it shows the hiring manager that you have compassion off the job as well. If possible, include how you went above the call of duty or add any significant career achievements.

  • Nurse
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Physical Therapist
  • Phlebotomist
  • Speech Pathologist

Resumes for Skilled Trades

Every trade position has a specific set of skills that are required on the job and it is important to highlight your technical training in your resume. Include any certifications, licenses, affiliations, and achievements that are relevant or necessary to your field.

Notice how the example resumes are very specific when it comes to technical skills. Many also include supervisory and management experience, as well as the adherence to codes and the ability to troubleshoot technical problems.

  • Electrician
  • Engineer
  • Plumber

Resumes for Writers, Creatives, and Freelancers

Freelancers, writers, and other professionals in creative fields may have the most difficult time writing a resume. Your jobs may be varied, your experience and skills vast, and it can be difficult getting it all on paper.

There are many ways to approach these types of resumes, and the examples should help you find a resume focus that's right for you. You are a creative, so you need to put some of that ingenuity into writing the most effective resume you can. 

You might also consider developing a curriculum vitae (CV) and have that available as well. CVs offer a focus on awards, publications, teaching experience, and so on, which might be valuable during a job search in a creative field.

Resumes for Customer Service Jobs

Customer service is a key element in many jobs, and it's important to focus on that in your resume. Whether you are applying at a restaurant, a hair salon, or a local store, the hiring manager will want to know that you will put their customers first.

Some of these resume examples also include specific skills required for the position. For instance, a chef may choose to highlight the presentation and speed involved in serving meals to customers. A stylist will want to focus on their knowledge of treatment techniques, and a retail associate may want to show off their merchandising expertise.

Note

Be sure to include any special honors or achievements you have received. Were you the employee of the month? Did you reach a high sales goal?

  • Culinary / Restaurant
  • Customer Service
  • Hair Stylist
  • Hotel Staff
  • Retail
  • Retail Sales Associate
  • Wait Staff

Entry-Level Resume Examples

Teenagers and recent college graduates may need to write a resume, as well. This can be tricky because of your limited work history. You will need to supplement your resume with other achievements.

Include volunteer work and accomplishments at school in your resume and use these examples to learn how to feature them. Employers understand that you are young and looking to add to your experience, so give them as much as you can that shows you'll be a valuable employee.

Note

These examples are just a jumping-off point. Your customized resume should emphasize your unique skills, experience, and abilities.

Resume Template to Download

This is an example of a general resume. Download the general resume template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or read the example below.

Screenshot of a general resume example
©TheBalance 2018 

Resume Example (Text Version)

Sue Applicant
302 Desert Ridge Avenue, Apt. 7
Las Vegas, NV 88901
000-123-4567
abc@abc.com

QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY

Award-winning Executive Chef offering 9 years’ experience creating world-class recipes for Michelin 3-star restaurants.  

  • Lead kitchen teams of ~6 chefs in preparation and delivery of dishes to restaurant patrons.
  • Recognized in top reviews by Las Vegas Weekly, Eating Las Vegas, and Desert Companion Magazine.
  • Contributed recipes for publication in The Las Vegas Michelin Cookbook.
  • 3-time recipient of coveted James Beard Awards. 

TRAINING AND CREDENTIALS

Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) in Culinary Arts
Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Greystone, Greystone, CA

ServSafe Certification

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

ABC CASINO AND RESORT, Las Vegas, NV
Executive Chef, December 2017-Present
Promoted to lead back-of-house operations for three restaurants within luxury casino and resort. Partner with general manager to orchestrate all purchasing, budget, quality control, and staffing functions. 

  • Headed restaurant’s highly successful rebranding initiative, creating original themed menu items and directing cross-functional team in redesign of dining area.
  • Introduced stringent cost control measures that reduced expenditures by 42%.

ABC CASINO AND RESORT, Las Vegas, NV
Chef de Cuisine, July 2013 – December 2017
Skillfully managed team of 15 chefs and servers in preparing menu items for casino’s upscale Winner’s restaurant.

  • Earned James Beard Awards for “Outstanding Chef” and “Outstanding Restaurant.”
  • Networked effectively with food journalists to enhance restaurant’s public profile.
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