When to Use Past Tense and Present Tense on Your Resume

Resume Tense

Writing and formatting your resume correctly is extremely important while applying for a new job. One large part of correct formatting is using the right tense. That said, many people are unsure when to use present tense and when to use past tense on a resume. If you’re uncertain of what tense to use on your resume, here are some tips to help you get started.

What Tense Should You Use on Your Resume?

While you can use both past and present tense, they need to be used correctly on your resume. For example, when writing about a past job, use the past tense. If you’re talking about past positions you’ve held over the years, use past tense verbs to describe events that have already happened. For example: “Oversaw team of 15 employees.”

On the other hand, if you’re listing a current job that you have now, use the present tense. For example: “Creates quarterly financial reports.” Present tense verbs describe ongoing actions, and this allows you to write about your current job responsibilities on your resume. But can you mix both past and present tense statements on your resume?

Can You Mix Past and Present Tense?

Some situations may have you questioning what tense to use on your resume. Is it okay to mix past and present tense?

Generally, when talking about a specific job, you should avoid mixing past and present action verbs on your resume. For example, if you’re talking about one job, you wouldn’t want to put “Managed over 100 employees” in one sentence and “Conducts daily meetings” in another.

Overall, since your resume primarily focuses on past job positions, you’ll typically use past tense. However, when talking about a current position, you should use the present tense to list responsibilities and accomplishments.

Importance of Using Correct Grammar on Your Resume

Using the proper resume tense indicates your grammar skills. Using proper grammar is crucial on your resume since mistakes stick out easily. Using correct grammar helps emphasize your abilities and skills to recruiters and hiring managers.

Additionally, basic knowledge of grammar and punctuation shows your attention to detail and shows hiring managers that you’ve put time and effort into your resume. Poor grammar on a resume can indicate a lack of excitement and passion for the position.

Finally, correct grammar is easier for others to read and understand. So when potential employers look at your resume, they’ll have an easier time reading through your skills, experience and qualifications.

Examples of Present Tense Resume Verbs

When you’re listing skills on your resume, you’re likely using action verbs to talk about your job duties, responsibilities and skills. Typically, you’ll use bullet points to list this information throughout the skills and work history sections of your resume.

That said, if you’re not sure how to take a skill from the job description and further expand on it, here are some examples of present tense verbs you may use to list your current responsibilities.

When you’re talking about management skills, you may include words like:

Next, if you’re listing organizational skills, you’ll want to add verbs such as:

Some action verbs to put along with your technical skills include:

Finally, when it comes to financial skills, you may consider adding verbs such as:

No matter what relevant skills you have, the ultimate goal is to list them effectively on your resume. If you’re listing past jobs on your resume or cover letter, here are some verbs you can use to describe your achievements.

Examples of Past Verb Tense for Your Resume

Ultimately, most of your resume will likely consist of past tense verbs that describe your job experience and skills. If you’re listing past accomplishments, skills or certifications you’ve obtained from past positions, you may use verbs such as:

When you’re thinking about listing past skills on your resume, try to use some of these past tense verbs. Frequently, people use the same verbs repeatedly on a resume. Try expanding your vocabulary and listing some unique action verbs that accurately portray your past responsibilities.