Executive Resume Examples and Writing Tips

Understanding who uses an executive resume can help you understand what you should talk about. Here are a few of the jobs in the “C-suite” that would utilize an executive resume.

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Chief Information Officer (CIO)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO)
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
• Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

These jobs require different competencies and certifications, but they all tend to be part of a board of directors and have a huge impact on how a company functions on a day-to-day basis.

Your executive resume structure will depend partially on what resume format you use. Most executive resume examples utilize the chronological format, which emphasizes work history, but you may also use the functional format, which emphasizes skills, or the combination format, which emphasizes both. Regardless of the format, you’ll be using the same sections, just with different structures.

 

 

Your header goes at the top of the resume and includes your full name, contact information including phone number and email address, and any related links such as your LinkedIn profile URL.

 

 

A resume summary is an encapsulation of your skills and work history. For an executive job, this typically means detailing some top metrics you’ve achieved, how many years of experience you have, and what you’ve done in the past.

 

 

Your skills section needs significant management skills. After all, as a member of the so-called “C-suite,” you’re essentially going to be managing people. Executive recruiters want to know that you have these skills and that you can transfer them to a new position and a new company. In this section, highlight skills and qualifications that show you have the know-how to direct your company’s development, which could include high-level skills like budgeting, business development and conflict resolution.

 

 

Every executive should display an extensive work history. Although you might not have a history that’s exclusively in the executive field, you should include work experience revolving around project and product management, and initiatives you’ve taken in previous jobs that resulted in success. Make sure you feature experiences that connect with the needs of the company you’re applying to.

 

 

Not every executive position needs an extensive education section, but don’t forget to include your college information (name, location, major) and any related certifications and credentials.

Do:

• Use bullet points and concise phrases to list your skills and work history. Bullet points make it easier for a hiring manager to scan through your resume and find information that fit their needs.
• Look over your resume before you submit it. A review by a trusted colleague or even a professional resume writing service can ensure your resume is error-free and looks as professional as possible.
• Include your LinkedIn profile on your resume. This way, a hiring manager can look into your LinkedIn online presence to learn more about you.

Don’t:

• Include every job you’ve ever had. As an executive job seeker, you probably have decades of experience, and you don’t need all of it – just the more recent, most relevant jobs that apply to your job search.
• Use resume templates that don’t fit the company you’re applying for. Research the company and get a feel for its culture, then use a resume template that reflects that. For example, an innovative company will probably favor a resume that has a bit more color and flair.
• Be overly dry in your resume presentation. Your resume should reflect your personal brand, and while it should be professional, it should also reflect who you are.