How to Write Eye-Catching Resume Headers: Guide & Examples

What is a resume header?

The header of your resume is the first presentation of your professional brand to hiring managers and should include your name, contact information, links and professional title or certification. It should be clear, concise and easy to read on your resume, helping recruiters to identify you quickly. It could be located at the top, center or in a vertical column, highlighting your name and establishing from the beginning the tone and professionalism of your resume.

How to write a resume header

When writing a resume header, emphasize your name and contact details. In this how-to section, we will guide you through the process of creating a professional and attention-grabbing header for your resume.

Examples of resume headers

No matter your experience level or resume format, a well-crafted resume header is crucial for ensuring that the hiring manager can reach out to you. Even if your work experience and skills section catches the recruiter's attention and makes you a strong candidate for the job, an incomplete or inadequate resume header format can result in missed opportunities for future interviews.

Essential elements for your resume header

A clear and professional header sets the tone for the rest of your resume and demonstrates your attention to detail and organizational skills. When updating your resume, remember that your header is one of the essential sections of your document.

Consider using adequate fonts like Arial, Helvetica, Verdana and Times New Roman, among others, to deliver easy-to-read information in a concise manner. A good header for a resume should include the following sections:

1. 1. First and Last Name: This should be the most prominent part of creating the best resume header, as it is your identity and what you want employers to remember. Use a larger font size, between 18 to 20, and bold formatting to make it stand out. Be consistent, avoid nicknames and keep your presentation professional.
      
      
   2. Phone number: Your phone number serves as a primary means of contact for hiring managers to schedule interviews and offer job opportunities. It is essential to include the number you frequently use, maintain a professional voicemail and refrain from using contacts related to your current job or unprofessional sources.
      
      
   3. Email address: Emails are essential for hiring managers to contact candidates. If your name is taken, use your full name or a variation of it in your email address, such as your middle name initial. Avoid using nicknames, numbers or unprofessional language in your email address. Choose a reputable email service provider, such as Gmail or Outlook, for a more professional image. You can also create a clear and concise email signature that includes your full name, phone number and any relevant professional links (e.g., LinkedIn profile). 
      
      
   4. Address: Add the city and state where you live. It is unnecessary to include your complete address in this section.
      
      
   5. Relevant links: Professional links, including portfolios, LinkedIn or your professional profile, provide employers with additional information about your qualifications, highlighting your accomplishments and experience. These links can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field.
      
      
   6. Professional title, certification or industry credentials: This section is optional but recommended, especially if you are applying for a job that requires a specific skill set or expertise. It can be a brief statement that describes your profession, such as "Marketing Manager," "Software Developer," PMP,” or “RN”.

Resume header templates

Whether you're writing a chronological, combination or functional resume, your header is an essential part of it. Use the following resume header samples to see how to organize your information.

Top

Placing your resume header at the top of your resume allows for better organization and readability. It also clearly separates your personal information from the rest of your resume content.

Center

Having your resume header at the center of your document can make it stand out from other applicants' resumes. It draws attention to your personal information and makes it easier for employers to contact you. Additionally, a centered header can create a balanced and visually appealing layout, enhancing the overall presentation of your resume.

Column

Placing your resume header in a column format on your resume allows for better organization and readability, as it creates a clear separation between your personal information and the rest of your resume content. Additionally, a column header can give your resume a professional and polished look, making it easier for employers to quickly locate and reference your contact details.

Best practices

Key takeaways

• A resume header is a crucial element that sets the tone for your entire resume. It should be clear, professional and easy to read.
  
  
• Your name should be the most prominent feature in the resume header, use a larger font or bold formatting to make it stand out. 
  
  
• Don’t use the word "resume" in your heading.
  
  
• Include essential contact information in the resume header, such as your phone number, email address and LinkedIn profile URL. 
  
  
• Ensure that your information is accurate and up to date.
  
  
• Tailor your resume header to the job you are applying for. Consider the industry and the desired impression you want to make. 
  
  
• Remember, this is your professional brand's first impression! A creative field may require a more visually appealing header, while a traditional industry may require a simpler design.