What Is a Resume?
What Is a Resume—and Do You Really Need One?
If you're just starting your job search or jumping back in after a break, you’ve probably heard the word resume tossed around a lot. But what exactly is it? Do you really need one? And what should you actually put on it?
Whether you're applying for your very first role or aiming for a career pivot, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. You’ll get clear, actionable advice—and a few examples to help you build a resume that reflects who you are and what you bring to the table.
A resume isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s your personal marketing tool. Done right, it can open doors, land interviews, and position you as the right candidate at the right time. So let’s break it all down.
Before you start writing, make sure you're not falling into common traps. Check out our guide on 10 Resume Mistakes and How to Avoid Them to sidestep errors that could cost you the interview.
What Is a Resume for a Job?
A resume may sound formal or complicated, but it’s really just a document that summarizes your professional background. Think of it as your career snapshot—it highlights your work experience, education, skills, and achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
Hiring managers rely on resumes to quickly assess who might be a good fit. A well-written resume helps them understand not just what you’ve done, but how you can contribute to their team or company. It's your first impression—make it count.
Resume vs. CV: What’s the Difference?
In the U.S. and Canada, the word resume is commonly used. In most other countries, especially in Europe, the same document is often called a CV (curriculum vitae). While there can be slight differences depending on the region and industry, the terms are often used interchangeably in everyday job applications.
How to Build Your Resume (With Examples)
Now that you know what a resume is, let’s look at what one actually looks like. Seeing a real example can make it much easier to get started with your own.
Nurse Resume Example
Here’s a sample resume for a nurse to give you a visual idea of how to format your own:
Want to build something similar? Use this template as a starting point and customize it to your own career story.
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