By Bridget (Weide) Brooks
The job search landscape evolves quickly — and so should resumes. Whether you're a professional résumé writer striving to keep client documents cutting-edge, or a jobseeker looking to stay competitive in today’s hiring environment, staying aligned with current best practices is essential. These 2025 guidelines reflect what employers and recruiters expect right now, and how to make sure your resume stands out in the modern job market.
- Eliminate the Excess
A resume isn’t a jobseeker’s life story (or “career obituary”) — it’s a marketing document. Focus on the most relevant, recent experience (generally the past 10–15 years). Two pages is the sweet spot for most professionals. Cut outdated or unrelated details so hiring managers can quickly see what makes the jobseeker the right fit.
- Lead With a Personal Brand Statement
Open with a concise summary that captures who the candidate is, what they do best, and the value they have to offer to the next employer. This 3-4 sentence section is prime real estate — make it count by showcasing the jobseeker’s professional identity and unique strengths.
- Demonstrate Continuous Learning
Employers want adaptable, growth-minded professionals. Include certifications, workshops, or online courses that show the jobseeker’s commitment to professional development — especially in rapidly changing fields like technology, marketing, and healthcare.
- Focus on Accomplishments, Not Tasks
Modern resumes highlight impact, not job descriptions. Lists of duties should be replaced with bullet points showing measurable results, skills, and contributions. For example:
“Led a 25-member cross-functional team that redesigned a 200-page SOP manual, improving efficiency by 30%.”
- Quantify Results
Numbers catch the eye and build credibility. Use metrics (percentages, dollar amounts, headcounts, timelines) to demonstrate performance and results. Quantifying achievements gives hiring managers a clear sense of the jobseeker’s impact.
- Highlight Remote or Hybrid Work Experience
If the candidate has successfully worked remotely, show it. Mention tools used (Zoom, Slack, Trello, Microsoft Teams) and emphasize communication, collaboration, and self-management skills. Employers value proven remote-work proficiency, even in today’s hybrid and back-to-the-office environments.
- Tackle Employment Gaps with Intention
Gaps happen. How you present them matters. If the jobseeker took time off, note relevant activities like freelancing, volunteering, or professional development. A brief explanation can prevent assumptions and show continued engagement.
- Add Digital Links
Enhance the resume with links to a LinkedIn profile, digital portfolio, or personal website. Interactive elements — like QR codes — allow employers to explore work samples, certifications, or media features with one click.
- Design for Humans and Machines
While Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) remain important, remember that a real person will eventually review the resume. A clean, visually appealing design with subtle color and strong formatting can set a candidate apart — as long as readability remains top priority.
- Optimize for ATS
More than 70% of employers (and nearly all Fortune 500 companies) use ATS to screen candidates. Use standard section headings, consistent formatting, and industry-relevant keywords to ensure the resume passes the initial scan.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Let AI Do All the Talking
AI tools can help tailor cover letters and resumes, but resist the temptation to copy-and-paste. Review every AI-generated draft carefully — personalize it, add the jobseeker’s authentic voice, and incorporate specific details that show genuine interest and expertise. Recruiters can spot a generic AI letter a mile away.
A well-written resume remains one of the most powerful tools in your professional toolkit — whether you’re crafting them for clients or fine-tuning your own. By staying current with resume trends and technology, you’ll position yourself (and your clients) to stand out in a competitive 2025 job market.
Bridget (Weide) Brooks is the founder and editor of Resume Writers’ Digest, a publication for career industry professionals. Since 1999, she has helped resume writers and career coaches grow their businesses and serve clients more effectively. Bridget also operates BeAResumeWriter.com, offering training and resources for career pros.
Follow her on LinkedIn or visit BeAResumeWriter.com for more resources.
