How to Build a Professional Resume?
Even in the digital age of LinkedIn and AI hiring tools, your resume is still your first impression. It tells the recruiter who you are, what you’ve done, and why you matter. This blog from the Manish Career Talks series will show you how to build a clean, professional, and job-winning resume step by step.
Step 1: Choose the Right Resume Format
There are 3 types of resume formats:
• Chronological – Most common. Shows experience from latest to oldest.
• Functional – Focuses on skills, not work history. Best for freshers.
• Combination – Mix of both. Great for mid-career professionals.
Step 2: Start with a Clean Header
Your resume header should have:
• Full Name (bold and clear)
• Phone Number
• Professional Email ID
• LinkedIn Profile Link (if available)
• Location (City, State)
Step 3: Write a Career Summary or Objective
This is your resume’s trailer. A 2–3 line paragraph telling who you are and what you’re aiming for.
For Freshers : “I am a B.Com graduate passionate about finance and data, seeking an entry-level role in the banking industry.”
For Experienced Candidates : “Marketing professional with 3+ years of digital campaign experience, looking to grow in brand strategy roles.”
Step 4: List Key Skills Clearly
Add a section named Key Skills with 5–10 bullets like:
• MS Excel
• Google Ads
• Communication
• Time Management
• Leadership
Step 5: Describe Your Work Experience (or Projects)
If you’ve worked before, mention:
• Company name, role, dates
• Use bullet points
• Focus on achievements, not just duties
Example : “Increased social media engagement by 40% through weekly promotional campaigns.”
If you’re a fresher, mention college projects or internships. Show what you learned or built.
Step 6: Education and Certifications
Mention :
• Degree
• College name
• Passing year
Also add :
• Online certifications (Google, Coursera, etc.)
• Soft skill workshops or job-readiness training
Step 7: Extra Sections (if space allows)
You can also add:
• Languages known
• Awards or recognitions
• Volunteer experience
• Hobbies (only if relevant and short)
Resume Example Template (for Freshers)
Name
Email | Phone | LinkedIn | City
Objective : Enthusiastic BBA student with strong leadership and organizing skills seeking an entry-level HR role.
Key Skills : Event Planning | MS Office | Problem Solving | Communication Internship/Projects: Conducted onboarding and employee surveys-HR Intern at XYZ Company
Education : BBA – ABC College – 2024
Certifications : Google Project Management Certificate
Summary: Resume = Opportunity Maker