How to Write a Resume Header: A Comprehensive Guide

A resume header is the first thing a recruiter sees when reviewing your resume. It's crucial to make a strong first impression by crafting a professional, clear, and informative header. This guide will walk you through the essential components of a resume header, provide examples, and offer tips to make your resume stand out.

Components of a Resume Header

1. Name
2. Contact Information:

• Phone Number
• Email Address
• Location
• LinkedIn Profile
• Personal Website or Portfolio (if applicable)

1. Name

Your name should be the most prominent text on your resume. It should be bold and larger than the rest of the text to ensure it stands out.

Example:

John Doe

2. Contact Information

Your contact information should be accurate and professional. Include a phone number, email address, and location. You can also add your LinkedIn profile and a personal website or portfolio if relevant.

Phone Number

Use a phone number that you frequently check and is reliable.

Example:

(123) 456-7890

Email Address

Use a professional email address, preferably one that includes your name. Avoid using nicknames or unprofessional domains.

Example:

john.doe@example.com

Location

Including your location helps employers understand where you are based. You don't need to include your full address, just your city and state.

Example:

New York, NY

LinkedIn Profile

A LinkedIn profile is an excellent addition to your resume, showcasing your professional network and endorsements.

Example:

linkedin.com/in/johndoe

Personal Website or Portfolio

If you have a personal website or portfolio that showcases your work, include it in your header.

Example:

johndoeportfolio.com

Putting It All Together

Here’s how your resume header should look when you combine all the components:

Example:

John Doe
(123) 456-7890 | john.doe@example.com | New York, NY
linkedin.com/in/johndoe | johndoeportfolio.com

Tips for Crafting a Professional Resume Header

1. Keep It Simple and Clean
2. Use a clean, easy-to-read font. Avoid unnecessary graphics or images.
3. Use Consistent Formatting
4. Ensure consistent font size and style throughout your header. Align your text properly for a polished look.
5. Proofread
6. Double-check for any typos or incorrect information. Ensure all links (LinkedIn, website) are correct and functioning.
7. Be Professional
8. Use a professional email address. Avoid including unnecessary personal details like your full address or a photograph unless specifically requested by the employer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Unprofessional Contact Information
2. Avoid using an email address with nicknames or unprofessional domains.
3. Including Irrelevant Information
4. Only include information that is relevant and adds value to your application.
5. Overcomplicating the Design
6. Keep the design simple and avoid clutter.
7. Forgetting to Update Contact Information
8. Ensure your contact information is current and correct.

Conclusion

A well-crafted resume header sets the tone for the rest of your resume. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article, you can create a professional, clear, and informative header that makes a strong first impression. Remember, simplicity and clarity are key. Make sure your header includes all necessary information in a clean and professional format, and you'll be one step closer to landing your dream job.