What Makes a Good Resume (Key Elements)

A strong resume in 2025 is targeted, accomplishment-driven, and easy to read. The best resumes share several key elements:

• Keyword optimization and tailoring: Effective resumes are customized for each job application. This means using keywords and phrases from the job posting in your resume content (assuming you have those skills/experiences). Many companies use ATS filters to screen for relevant keywords, so echoing the language of the job description can boost your match rate​. For example, if a posting seeks experience with “project management” or a specific software, make sure to include those terms (naturally, in context) if you have that experience. Tailoring also involves reordering or rewriting bullets to emphasize the qualifications most important to that employer​. A one-size-fits-all resume is far less effective than a targeted one.
• Achievements over duties (use of metrics): A good resume highlights what you accomplished, not just what you were responsible for. Use strong action verbs and quantify results to showcase the impact of your work. For instance, rather than saying “Managed a sales team,” say “Led a sales team of 5, boosting quarterly revenue by 15% through targeted training and incentives.” Numbers (percentages, dollar amounts, etc.) and specific outcomes give tangible evidence of your contributions​. Wherever possible, frame your experience in terms of results (saved time, increased efficiency, grew client base, improved customer satisfaction scores, etc.). This results-focused approach helps employers see the value you can bring to their organization.
• Clear, professional formatting (visual appeal): The resume’s appearance should be polished and easy to navigate. Use a clean layout with clearly separated sections and consistent formatting. Bullet points help break up text into digestible pieces, and adequate white space and standard margins improve readability​. While conservative formatting is safest for ATS, modern resumes can still have a touch of design – for example, a subtle color for section headings or a minimalistic infographic element – as long as the core content remains text-based and machine-readable. Consistency is key: use the same font style throughout and uniform date and title formats. A visually appealing resume that is well-organized will make a better impression on recruiters during the quick skim they do initially.
• Relevant skills and customization: In addition to work history, good resumes include a skills section that balances hard skills (technical abilities, tools, languages) and soft skills relevant to the job. Ensure the skills you list align with the job requirements – many employers use the skills list as a quick checklist for core competencies. Incorporate important soft skills either in your summary or in how you describe achievements (e.g., “collaborated with cross-functional teams to launch X” showcases teamwork). Everything on your resume should serve a purpose: include details that strengthen your fit for the role, and remove fluff or outdated items. Quality trumps quantity.
• Use of modern tools (and human touch): Today’s job seekers often leverage technology to perfect their resumes. Tools like resume scanners (e.g. Jobscan) can compare your resume against a job description to suggest improvements. AI writing assistants can help draft or refine bullet points. For example, career experts suggest using AI to identify top keywords in a job ad, then weaving those into your resume where appropriate​. These tools can save time and ensure you’re hitting the right notes. However, a good resume still requires a personal touch – review everything an AI tool generates to make sure it’s accurate and truly reflective of your experience. Ultimately, authenticity matters: hiring managers appreciate a resume that sounds genuine and aligns with what you can discuss in an interview.