Resume What to Write: 10 Winning Tips to Create a Resume That Gets Interviews
If you’re typing into Google resume what to write, you’re not alone. While it’s not grammatically correct, it is one of the most common questions job seekers ask when applying for a new role. Whether you’re writing your first resume and unsure what the difference between a resume and a CV or updating one after years in the workforce, knowing exactly what to include can make the difference between landing an interview and being overlooked.
The good news is that employers are not looking for a perfect resume. They are looking for a resume that clearly demonstrates your skills, experience and achievements while showing that you are the right fit for the role.
In this guide, you will learn exactly what to write on your resume, what employers expect to see and the biggest mistakes to avoid.
Resume What to Write: Expert Tips from Professional Resume Writers
Writing a resume can feel overwhelming, especially if you have not updated one in years. The key is to keep your resume focused on what matters most to employers.
1. Keep it concise
Your resume should generally be between 1-3 pages, depending on your experience. However, if you’re offering value-added, high quality content, you can exceed 3+ pages. Employers often spend less than a minute reviewing each application, so make every word count.
2. Focus on achievements
Instead of simply listing duties, explain the results you delivered.
Weak example: Managed a customer service team.
Stronger example: Led a customer service team that improved customer satisfaction scores by 24 points within 12 months.
Employers want evidence that you create value.
3. Tailor every application
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is sending the same resume to every employer.
Review the job advertisement carefully and tailor your skills, experience and achievements to match what the employer is looking for.
4. Use keywords naturally
Many organisations use Applicant Tracking Systems, also known as ATS, to screen resumes before a recruiter reads them.
Include important keywords from the job advertisement throughout your resume, particularly in your:
- Professional summary
- Key skills
- Professional experience
This can improve your chances of passing ATS screening.
5. Proofread carefully
A resume with spelling or grammatical mistakes creates a poor first impression.
Read your resume several times and ask someone else to review it before submitting your application.
What to Write in Every Resume Section
If you’re asking yourself resume what to write, this simple checklist will help ensure you include the information employers expect.
Professional Summary
Write a short paragraph that explains:
- Who you are
- Your years of experience
- Your strongest capabilities
- The value you bring
Example:
Results-driven Project Manager with 12 years of experience leading technology and business transformation projects. Proven success delivering multimillion-dollar programs, improving operational efficiency and leading high-performing teams.
Professional Experience
For each role, include:
- Job title
- Employer
- Employment dates
- Three to eight achievement-focused bullet points
Focus on measurable outcomes wherever possible.
Examples include:
- Increased sales by $32k.
- Reduced operating costs by $450k annually.
- Managed a team of 40 staff across 3 locations.
- Delivered projects worth more than $8m.
Education
Include:
- Qualification
- Institution
- Graduation year
If you are a recent graduate, you may also include relevant coursework, awards or university projects.
Certifications and Licences
Include any professional qualifications or licences relevant to the role.
Examples include:
- CPA Australia
- PRINCE2
- Lean Six Sigma
- First Aid Certificate
- White Card
Technical Skills
List software, systems and technology relevant to your profession.
Examples include:
- Microsoft 365
- Salesforce
- SAP
- Power BI
- Canva
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Xero
How to Format Your Resume for Maximum Impact
Even the strongest experience can be overlooked if your resume is difficult to read.
To improve readability:
- Use clear headings.
- Use consistent fonts.
- Include plenty of white space.
- Write short paragraphs.
- Use bullet points instead of long blocks of text.
- Keep the formatting clean and professional.
Recruiters often scan resumes quickly. A well-formatted resume makes it easier for them to find the information they need.
Resume What to Write and What to Leave Out
Knowing resume what to write is just as important as knowing what not to include.
Avoid adding:
- Your age
- Marital status
- Religion
- Political views
- Salary expectations
- The phrase “references available upon request”
- An unprofessional email address
- Irrelevant jobs from decades ago unless they add value
Instead, focus on the experience, achievements and skills that directly support your application.
Every sentence should answer one question:
Why should this employer interview me?
The Top 10 Skills Employers Look For
While every role is different, some skills are valued across a wide range of Australian workplaces.
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Adaptability
- Time Management
- Organisation
- Attention to Detail
- Leadership
- Customer Focus
Where possible, demonstrate these skills through examples rather than simply listing them.
How to Make Your Resume Stand Out
Competition for quality roles can be strong, but there are practical ways to improve your resume.
- Customise every application.
- Quantify your achievements.
- Match the language used in the job advertisement.
- Include measurable results.
- Highlight promotions and career progression.
- Demonstrate leadership and initiative.
- Show evidence of continuous learning.
Small improvements can make a significant difference.
The Biggest Resume Mistakes
Some of the most common resume mistakes include:
- Sending the same resume to every employer.
- Focusing on duties instead of achievements.
- Using outdated formatting.
- Including spelling mistakes.
- Writing long paragraphs.
- Using vague phrases such as “hard worker” or “team player” without evidence.
- Failing to tailor the resume to the position.
Avoiding these mistakes can immediately improve your chances of being shortlisted.
Need Help Deciding Resume What to Write?
If you’re still wondering resume what to write, you are certainly not alone.
Many talented professionals struggle to identify their strongest achievements or explain the value they have delivered throughout their careers. This is where professional resume writers can help.
At Resumes Done Right, we help Australian job seekers create professional resumes that clearly communicate their skills, achievements and value.
Our team has more than 40 years of combined recruitment industry experience and understands what recruiters, hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems are looking for.
Whether you are changing careers, applying for a promotion, returning to the workforce or struggling to secure interviews, we can help you present your experience with confidence.
Book your free 15-minute consultation today by visiting Resumes Done Right or calling 1300 393 039 during business hours.
For additional career information, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
