How to Write a Resume Title: Examples and Tips

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For some, a resume can be a lot like a newspaper. The most important information is in the small print however, what really motivates people to continue reading is the title on your resume.

With an innovative AI resume builder and our advice below, you’ll be able to quickly tailor your resume title to the job you want and get a hiring manager interested in reading the rest of your resume.

What Is a Resume Title?

A resume title, which can be referred to as a headline, is a short sentence that appears below your name on your resume.

Your headline has one mission. To get the employer to keep reading.

A well-written headline will highlight your experience and skills in a way that makes a good first impression and catches the attention of the hiring manager.

Here’s what a good resume title can include:

• Target job title: It should include the exact role you are applying for.
• Key skills or specializations: Your title should have high-impact keywords relevant to the job description.
• Years of experience: Resume titles should say how many years you’ve worked in the role, for example, “with 5 years of experience”.
• Certifications or licenses: Include industry-recognized credentials that add authority.
• A major achievement: A specific metric or result to prove your value, for example, “Generated $2M in Revenue”.

Try Our AI Builder to Create a Resume Title in Seconds

If you’re not the most creative when it comes to writing titles, our AI resume builder can step in and help.

Use our builder to get:

• Instant suggestions for your title and different sections
• Resume templates that highlight your qualifications
• Access to our resume checker that gives your resume a grade and improvement tips

Resume Title Examples for Different Roles

To better understand what your headline can look like, you can review resume title ideas for different sectors below that include important elements like metrics, achievements, or job titles.

Technology sector resume title examples

Financial sector resume title ideas

Business and sales resume title examples

Operations resume title examples

Healthcare resume title ideas

Benefits of a Well-Written Resume Title

An employer should read each candidate’s application, however, it doesn’t mean that they’ll do it. That’s where your title comes in.

It will offer you some direct advantages that can pack a powerful punch when it comes to capturing the attention of recruiters. Let’s dive into the specific benefits:

• Attracts attention: A well-crafted title draws the attention of recruiters and encourages them to further examine your resume.
• Shows your value: It tells the employer why you’re the perfect fit for the role, without them having to dig through your entire resume.
• Helps with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): Many employers use ATS to filter resumes. Including keywords from the job description in your headline can improve your chances of passing these initial screening tools.
• Highlights your specialization: If you have a particular area of expertise, your headline is the perfect place to demonstrate it.
• Promotes personal branding: A title summarizes your professional identity, contributing to your personal brand.
• Demonstrates focus and direction: A clear and targeted headline shows you’re focused and know exactly what you’re looking for in your career.

With the right keywords and length you should be able to impress any employer and get your application to begin on the right foot.

When to Use a Resume Title

Resume titles fit in well on virtually any resume. They can be especially useful when you are:

• Trying to highlight your skills and experience
• Changing careers
• Applying for competitive positions

However, in certain situations, it can be especially beneficial.

A good resume title also plays a crucial role when navigating career transitions. Despite having a different career history, a well-crafted headline can stress your transferable skills and demonstrate your potential to succeed in a new role.

For competitive roles, it can also provide a significant edge. In crowded job markets, it sets you apart by quickly communicating what only you can offer to a position. It makes an immediate, positive impression, increasing your chances of standing out from the competition.

Steps to Writing an Engaging Resume Headline

Crafting a compelling resume headline is an art. It’s your golden ticket to grabbing a recruiter’s attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a headline that’s sure to turn heads.

1. Understand the job description: First off, get familiar with the job description. What skills, experience, and qualifications are they looking for? Your headline should echo these requirements.
2. Highlight your key skills: Identify your key skills that align with the job. Are you a ‘data-driven marketing guru’ or an ‘accomplished project manager with Agile expertise’? Let your headline do the talking.
3. Showcase your experience: Experience can be a game-changer. If you’ve got years under your belt in a specific role or industry, flaunt it in your headline. For example, ‘Veteran Graphic Designer with 10+ Years in the Gaming Industry’.
4. Use relevant keywords: Add some SEO magic to your resume by using keywords from the job description. This not only shows you’re a perfect fit but also helps your resume get past any Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
5. Keep it compact: Remember, a headline should be short and sweet. Aim for less than 10 words. The goal is to make a big impact with a brief statement.
6. Proofread and edit: Even the smallest typo can be a deal-breaker. Proofread your headline and ask a friend or mentor to review it.
7. Tailor it for each job: One size does not fit all when it comes to resume headlines. Customize your headline for each job application. What works for a software startup may not work for a corporate law firm.

Here’s an example of a solid student resume headline that should come out if you follow these steps correctly:

“Dean’s List Business Student with Strong Leadership Experience in Campus Organizations”

How to write a resume title for an entry-level position

Crafting a headline for a resume with no experience on it can seem tricky, but with the right approach, you can make a strong impression. Here are some key points to consider:

• Mention your strengths: Highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or relevant coursework. Even without professional experience, you have accomplishments to display.
• Understand the Job Requirements: The same as a professional who has worked for some time, make sure to align your headline with the skills and qualifications specified in the job description.
• Stay relevant: You may feel a bit desperate when it comes to adding skills and anything to your experience section, but make sure it relates to the job you’re applying to.

Here’s an example of how you can write your headline if you’re lacking experience:

“Detail-Oriented Business Graduate with Strong Organizational Skills, Seeking Entry-Level Administrative Assistant Role”

This is great to draw inspiration from as it targets the position with an emphasis on relevant skills, and it states exactly what position they are looking for.

FAQs

What’s a good title for a resume?

A standout resume title is a concise, one-line hook that combines your target role with a major achievement or years of experience. For example, instead of just “Sales Manager,” use “Sales Manager who Exceeded Targets by 127%.”

Remember to keep it specific, professional, and include keywords relevant to the job description.

Should you put a title on a resume?

Yes, you should absolutely include a resume title. It replaces the outdated “objective” statement and allows recruiters and ATS software to instantly see who you are and what value you bring.

Without an eye-catching title, you could blend into the pile of generic applicants.

What should I title my resume file?

Never use generic names like “Resume.pdf”. The best way to title your resume file is to include your full name and the job title. For example, “Jane_Doe_Marketing_Manager.pdf.”

Naming your file this way makes sure it’s easy to find if it gets separated from your email or application.

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