When it comes to getting noticed by potential employers, a well-crafted header can make all the difference. In today's digital age, where resumes and cover letters are often submitted online, a strong header can help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing job interviews. In this article, we'll explore 12+ header tips to help you create a compelling and effective header that will grab the attention of hiring managers and recruiters.
Understanding the Importance of a Header
A header is the top section of your resume or cover letter, and it typically includes your name, contact information, and professional title. The header is often the first thing that hiring managers and recruiters see when reviewing your application, so it’s crucial to make a good impression. A well-designed header can help you establish your professional brand, showcase your expertise, and demonstrate your attention to detail.
Header Tip 1: Use a Clear and Concise Format
When it comes to formatting your header, it’s essential to keep it simple and easy to read. Use a clear and concise format that includes your name, email address, phone number, and professional title. Avoid using unnecessary graphics or fonts that may be difficult to read. Instead, opt for a clean and professional font, such as Arial or Calibri, in a size 10 or 11 point.
Header Tip 2: Include Relevant Keywords
In today’s digital age, many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen and filter resumes. To increase your chances of passing through these systems, it’s essential to include relevant keywords in your header. Use keywords related to your industry, job title, and skills to help your resume get noticed by hiring managers and recruiters.
Header Tip 3: Use a Professional Email Address
Your email address is an essential part of your header, and it’s crucial to use a professional email address that includes your name or initials. Avoid using email addresses that are unprofessional or include numbers and special characters. Instead, opt for a simple and straightforward email address that reflects your professional brand.
Header Tip 4: Include a Professional Summary or Objective
A professional summary or objective statement can help you stand out from the competition and showcase your expertise. Use this section to highlight your skills, experience, and achievements, and tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for. Keep your summary or objective concise and focused, and avoid using generic statements that don’t add value to your application.
Header Tip 5: Use Action Verbs and Keywords
Action verbs and keywords can help you create a strong and effective header that grabs the attention of hiring managers and recruiters. Use action verbs like “managed,” “created,” “developed,” and “improved” to describe your skills and experience. Also, include relevant keywords related to your industry and job title to help your resume get noticed by ATS systems.
Header Tip 6: Keep it Concise and Focused
A well-crafted header should be concise and focused, avoiding unnecessary information that may distract from your professional brand. Keep your header to one or two lines, and avoid using too many words or phrases that may make it difficult to read. Instead, opt for a simple and straightforward header that includes the essential information hiring managers and recruiters need to know.
Header Tip 7: Use a Standard Font and Size
When it comes to formatting your header, it’s essential to use a standard font and size that’s easy to read. Avoid using fonts that are too large or too small, and opt for a font size between 10 and 12 points. Also, use a font that’s clear and professional, such as Arial or Calibri, to help your header stand out.
Header Tip 8: Include Relevant Certifications and Licenses
If you have relevant certifications or licenses, it’s essential to include them in your header. This can help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your expertise in a particular field. Use the standard format for listing certifications and licenses, and avoid using abbreviations or acronyms that may be unfamiliar to hiring managers and recruiters.
Header Tip 9: Use a Professional Title
Your professional title is an essential part of your header, and it’s crucial to use a title that accurately reflects your skills and experience. Avoid using titles that are too generic or vague, and opt for a title that’s specific and descriptive. Also, use a title that’s consistent with your industry and job function to help hiring managers and recruiters understand your professional brand.
Header Tip 10: Include Relevant Social Media Profiles
In today’s digital age, social media profiles are an essential part of your professional brand. If you have relevant social media profiles, such as LinkedIn or Twitter, it’s essential to include them in your header. This can help hiring managers and recruiters find you online and learn more about your skills and experience.
Header Tip 11: Use a Consistent Format
A consistent format is essential for creating a strong and effective header. Use the same format for your name, email address, phone number, and professional title, and avoid using different formats or fonts that may make your header look inconsistent. Instead, opt for a simple and straightforward format that’s easy to read and understand.
Header Tip 12: Proofread and Edit
Finally, it’s essential to proofread and edit your header to ensure it’s error-free and professional. Avoid using spelling or grammar mistakes, and opt for a header that’s polished and refined. Also, ask a friend or mentor to review your header and provide feedback to help you improve it.
| Header Element | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Name | Use your full name, with your first and last name separated by a space |
| Email Address | Use a professional email address that includes your name or initials |
| Phone Number | Use a standard format, such as (123) 456-7890, and include your area code |
| Professional Title | Use a title that accurately reflects your skills and experience, and is consistent with your industry and job function |
| Keywords | Use relevant keywords related to your industry, job title, and skills to help your resume get noticed by ATS systems |
What is the most important element of a header?
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The most important element of a header is your name, as it’s the first thing that hiring managers and recruiters see when reviewing your application. Make sure to use your full name, with your first and last name separated by a space.
How can I optimize my header for ATS systems?
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To optimize your header for ATS systems, use relevant keywords related to your industry, job title, and skills. Also, use a standard format for your name, email address, and phone number, and avoid using unnecessary graphics or fonts that may be difficult to read.
What is the best font and size to use for a header?
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The best font and size to use for a header is a standard font, such as Arial or Calibri, in a size 10 or 11 point. Avoid using fonts that are too large or too small, and opt for a font that’s clear and professional.
