Crafting a well-structured and attention-grabbing resume title and headline is a critical step to increase the chances of getting shortlisted for a job interview.
The resume title, which usually indicates the job title, is the first thing hiring managers notice when searching for candidates on their database.
In contrast, the resume headline or summary section highlights the applicant’s key professional skills and qualifications briefly.
A well-crafted resume title, headline and resume name could be the difference between being invited for an interview and being overlooked.
This article provides:
Examples of excellent resume titles and headlines that you can personalize according to your needs.
Additionally, the article provides tips on how to create an effective resume title and grab the reader’s attention, which is especially crucial when submitting resumes online, where keywords play a vital role in shortlisting resumes for the position being filled.
Resume Title
Typically, the title of the resume section is the job title that the applicant is targeting, such as Senior IT Project Manager, Vice President of Insurance, Management Consultant, or Headteacher.
Resume Headlines (Resume Career Summary)
Resume headlines, also known as resume titles, are brief and creative statements that highlight professional skills and qualifications of the applicant.
This paragraph is called the “Resume Headlines” or “Resume Summary,” where the applicant can briefly highlight their key capabilities to reflect back to the job requirements.
Resume Name
When saving a resume on a recruitment website, the applicant is asked to give the resume a name or file name.
This name is usually the title name that will be featured across the top of the resume. The resume name is the first thing hiring managers will see when searching for candidates on their database.
What is an effective Resume Title Looks Like?
Your resume title can be a potent marketing tool, so it deserves the appropriate attention.
If you are unsure about what a good resume title should look like, here are some additional ideas:
1.) Researching online
Conducting research for resume title ideas is a great way to see how different jobs are represented and to take it up a notch.
For example, instead of using the job title “Engineering,” which isn’t too exciting or catchy, an applicant might elaborate and use the job title “Manufacturing Engineer.”
2.) Add some Headlines
One way to improve your resume title is to skillfully include your personal skills and qualities.
However, this is not simply a matter of adding a few words to the title.
It requires some thought on your part to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from your resume title.
3.) Grab Attention
To create an effective resume title, it’s essential to grab attention at first glance.
The title should identify the job title or job posting being targeted, and additional 2-3 keywords can be combined with the resume job title.
4.) Use Keywords
It is crucial to provide the hiring manager with a quick overview of your skills and experience in relation to the position being applied for.
By using keywords that are beneficial to the employer, you increase the likelihood that your resume will be reviewed in greater detail.
The purpose of your resume title is to clearly identify the job title or position you are seeking.
5.) Examples of Poor Resume Titles
Below are some poor resume title examples to avoid:
- Resume of Your Name
- Looking for a Job
- Resume
- Looking for a Challenge
- Your Name Guru of ….
According to Monster.com, one of the largest online employment sites, using a proper resume title is critical.
This is especially true when resumes are submitted online, as keywords play an essential role in shortlisting resumes for the position being filled.
Resume Titles – Examples
Here are some suggestions on various job fields to get the idea:
Admin:
- Original: Secretarial Position
- After: Administrative Assistant – MS Office Professional
Technology:
- Original: Computer Programmer
- After: Sr. IT Specialists – Java
Retail:
- Original: Manager
- After: Large Dept. Store Manager – 15 Years
Automotive:
- Original: Mechanic
- After: Cummings Diesel Mechanic – 10 Years
Sales:
- Original: Sales Rep
- After: Electronic Sales Rep – XYZ Certified
This should give you a better understanding of how you need to enhance your resume title, so that it receives the attention it deserves, and so that you benefit by grabbing the attention of the hiring manager.
A good resume title could be the difference between an interview and getting overlooked.
The Resume Headline Explained
In many resume templates, the resume title section may include the job title and a short paragraph below to present related job skills and experience for the specific job.
This is called – Resume Headline, Career Summary or Resume Summary.
These statements must capture the reader’s attention.
Examples of Resume Headlines
Here are two samples of eye-catching resume headlines:
Senior Project Manager
Over 10 years of extensive experience in the Telecom industry. Proven track record of successfully managing projects with a pre-allocated budget of 8-10 million dollars and achieving project goals.
Aspiring Elementary Teacher
Passionate and dedicated – Committed to nurturing the development and fulfilling the educational needs of young learners.
Cultivated a creative and critical thinking environment to improve children’s performance and learning outcomes.
Integrated innovative teaching techniques, such as e-learning and collaborative team-based learning, to design stimulating and impactful lessons.
Here are some good resume headline samples that you can personalize according to your needs:
- Over 20 years of hands-on experience in the full life cycle of software development
- Extensive knowledge as a systems architect and software developer, including analysis, design, architecture, development, and management of complex software solutions.
- Experience in strategic management for resolving long-standing problems and creating solutions that improve operational efficiency.
- 10+ years of experience as a key R&D team leader, responsible for developing products from concept to commercialization.
- Proven ability to effectively manage online marketing campaigns. Increased bottom-line sales by 30%
- Proven success in coaching, mentoring and motivating teams to [achieve, enhance, and improve] company goals.
- Highly qualified [your profession] with over [x] years of experience in [related keyword such as: sales management, interior design, business analysis] within the [your field] industry
- Expertise in business development, management, and finance for [x] million-dollar organization
Resume Name – The File Name
It is important to understand the difference between a resume file name and a resume title.
On most recruitment sites, you will be asked to name your resume, so that the resume file name becomes searchable in online employment databases.
If you unsure about what might be a good resume title name, you can search for jobs that interest you on the recruitment site to get some ideas.
The title chosen should represent why you’re experienced for the position you are applying for.
Different sites allow for different resume file name lengths, therefore check the specific requirements of the site being used.
Don’t Obscure Your Resume with an Unclear File Name
Properly naming your resume file is a simple yet often overlooked aspect of job hunting.
Surprisingly, only 55% of job seekers include their name in the file name, while 10% don’t reference their name at all, and another 10% opt to use their initials instead.
To make sure your resume stands out, always include your name in the file name. Keep in mind that when you send your resume as an attachment, the name of the attachment is prominent. It’s recommended that you save your resume file as a PDF, unless the job application specifically requests a DOC or DOCX file.
Naming Your Resume Copies
Create multiple versions with unique file names – Don’t rely on just one generic resume file.
Save different versions of your resume for each type of job you apply for and ensure that each resume is tailored to highlight your education, experience, skills, and training that best aligns with the job requirements.
By doing so, your resume is more likely to catch the attention of the hiring manager and increase your chances of getting invited for an interview.
Resume Names – Examples
Here are examples on how to name a resume effectively:
Sales
Original: Jimmy Jim for Hire
Revised: Top Ranked 10 + Years Pharmaceutical Sales Rep
Administrative
Original: Office Administrative Position Wanted
Revised: Experienced Administrative Assistant Proficient in MS Office – 5 Years.
Nursing
Original: Nurse
Revised: Registered Nurse with over 10 Years of Oncology Experience.
Finance
Original: Finance Exec.
Revised: Fortune 500 Investment Banker
New Graduate
Original: College Graduate
Revised: Bachelor’s Degree Graduate with Availability for All Shifts.