TIPS: Writing A Resume Headline That Stands Out

Despite the fact that resume headlines are only a few words long, they are the first thing recruiters and hiring managers read. They summarize who you are and what you contribute to the table.

A resume headline is a brief description below your name and above your resume summary. When written well, it instantly conveys your qualifications to hiring supervisors.

Your CV needs headlines. Recruiters and hiring managers scan these one-liners first. They quickly communicate who you are and what you provide.

A well-written and targeted headline can authenticate your application and inspire recruiters to read on.

Who Should Use Resume Headlines?

Resume headlines are most beneficial to candidates who have robust, applicable experience, but all job seekers can use them. Entry-level applicants who don’t yet have relevant experience can use headlines to display soft skills, tool proficiencies, and winning attributes.

Example of an experienced applicant’s resume headline:

Customer Service Lead with 7 Years of Inbound Call Center Experience

Example of an entry-level candidate’s resume headline:

Personable Customer Service Representative Proficient with Call Tracking Software

Tips for Writing a Resume Headline: 5 Questions to Ask

No need to overcomplicate things! Resume headlines that pack a punch are easy to write. Below, we’ve provided five tips to help you craft a winning headline for every position you pursue.

Q: Is your headline compatible with the position?

Tip: Tailor your headline every time, making sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience. Custom headlines, which include the job title for which you’re applying, signal to both recruiters and applicant tracking systems (ATS) that you’re a good fit for the job.

Q. Does your headline include keywords from the job posting?

Tip: Include keywords from the job description in your resume headline. Try to employ one or two difficult skills. Most crucial, include your job title. This is the most powerful resume keyword, and the headline provides a natural opportunity to include it, especially if you haven’t previously held the post.

Q. Does your resume headline include concrete language and information?

Tip: Replace ambiguous adjectives like “hardworking” and “creative” with more concrete language. The descriptors you use in your headline should stand out from the crowd and be supported by your summary.

Q. Is your headline concise?

Tip: Try to keep your headline to one line. Remember this is just a title. You’ll have more room to display your skills and experience below.

Q. Does your resume headline stand out visually?

Tip: Make your headline stand out by writing it in title case (capitalizing the words) and choosing a headline font with a higher font size than the rest of your resume. Many resume templates have large headlines; however, if yours does not, consider adding one after your name and before your resume summary.

Resume Headline Examples

• Seasoned Content Writer with SEO Knowledge
• Seasoned Registered Nurse Specializing in Pediatric Care
• Award-Winning Graphic Designer
• Editorial Producer who has Co-Produced 3 Award-Winning Films
• Experienced Merchandiser with CDL License
• Executive Assistant with 6 Years Admin Experience
• Senior Creative Copywriter with Experience Writing Social Ads
• National Award-Winning Social Media Manager
• Project Manager with 10 Years Experience and Proven Success
• Internationally Acclaimed Photographer with 7 Years Experience

Mistakes to Avoid when Writing Your Resume Headline

Watch out for these common mistakes when writing your headline.

Don’t include an objective in your headline. Resume objectives state your goal as a job searcher. Although they were once commonly included on resumes, they don’t bring much value anymore. Keep the focus on your skills and experience—what you can bring to the organization.

Don’t Lie. Attract the recruiter’s attention while remaining truthful about your experience and skills. We’ve all seen internet click-bait titles and been disappointed when an item doesn’t live up to its glitzy packaging. If your headline piques a hiring manager’s curiosity, they’ll read on to find supporting evidence.

Don’t forget to tailor your headline. Always modify your resume headline. Customized headlines that incorporate the job title help you get beyond the ATS and stand out to recruiters, while generic headlines can indicate that you haven’t thought through your application.

Resume headlines might attract recruiters right away. Jobscan provides resume headline and resume keywords.

How well optimized is your resume?

Find out with the Jobscan optimization tool! Plus, discover customized resume keywords for your headline and beyond.