How to Write an Eye Catching First Headline

Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on MyPerfectResume.

With only seven seconds to grab the attention of hiring managers and ATS systems, your resume is one of the most important elements of your job application.

It’s the first thing potential employers will see, and it needs to catch the attention of professionals.

Follow our guide and resume sample topics to increase your chances of landing your desired role.

What is a resume header?

The subject of your CV 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 employers to identify you quickly.

It can be found at the top, in the middle or in a vertical column, highlighting your name and establishing from the start the tone and professionalism of your CV.

How to write a resume header

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

1. Start with your full name and make it stand out using a slightly larger font than the rest of the text. Avoid using nicknames, and don’t use the word “resume” in your subject line.
2. Add your contact information, including your phone number, address, email and LinkedIn profile (if you have one). Keep this section up to date and professional.
3. Enter your professional title or information other than your name (optional but recommended).
4. Use a clear and legible font.
5. Make sure your header is at the top of the page and leave some white space between your header and the rest of the document.
6. Keep your formatting consistent and avoid unnecessary information.

Examples of resume topics

Regardless of your experience level or resume format, a well-crafted subject line is essential to ensure that the hiring manager can reach you.

Even if your work experience and skills section catches the employer’s attention and makes you a strong candidate for the job, an incomplete or inadequate subject line format can result in missed opportunities for future interviews.

Example of a Good Resume Subject

Marissa Williams, Data Analyst
Phoenix, AZ, 85054
(555) 555-5555
[email protected]LinkedIn.com/in/marissawilliams

Example of a Bad Resume Title

Adrian Foster Resume
1405 Oak Street,
Newark, NY 14513
[email protected]adrianfacebook.com

Key elements of your resume topic

A clear and professional header sets the tone for your entire resume and demonstrates your attention to detail and organizational skills. When revising your resume, remember that the header is one of the most important parts of your document.

Consider using adequate fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, Verdana and Times New Roman, among others, to deliver easily readable information in a concise manner. A good resume header should include the following sections:

1. First and last name: This should be the most prominent part of creating an excellent resume, as it is your identity and what you want employers to remember. Use a large 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 communication for hiring managers to schedule interviews and offer job opportunities. It’s important to include a number you use regularly, keep your voicemail professional and avoid using contacts related to your current job or non-professional sources.
3. Email address: E-mails are important for notifying managers to communicate with selected individuals. If your name is taken, use your full name or a variation of it in your email address, such as your middle name. Avoid using nicknames, numbers or non-professional language in your email address. Choose a reputable email service provider, such as Gmail or Outlook, for a professional image. You can also create a clear and concise email signature that includes your full name, phone number and any relevant professional links (eg, LinkedIn profile).
4. Address: Add a city and state where you live. It is not necessary to enter your complete address in this section.
5. Relevant links: Professional links, including portfolios, LinkedIn or your professional profile, give employers more information about your qualifications, highlighting your achievements and experience. These links can improve your credibility and demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field.
6. Professional title, certification or industry information: 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 short statement that describes your occupation, such as “Sales Manager,” “Software Engineer,” PMP, or “RN”.

Restart the header area

Whether you’re writing a chronology, a compilation or a resume, your header is an important part of it. Here’s how to organize your information.

Top: Placing your resume heading 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.

Institution: Having your resume title in the center of your document can set it apart from other applicants. It draws attention to your personal information and makes it easier for employers to contact you. Additionally, a central header can create a balanced and visually appealing structure, improving the overall presentation of your resume.

Column: Putting 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 CV a nice and polished look, making it easier for employers to quickly find you and reference your contact information.

Best practices

• Keep it simple: The subject of your resume should be short, simple and easy to read. Use a clear and legible font, and avoid using any fancy or decorative fonts that may be difficult to read.
• Enter your first and last name: Your name should be the most prominent feature in your resume header. It should be the largest text on the page, and it should be placed at the top of the page.
• Enter your contact information: Your phone number, email address and LinkedIn profile URL. Your contact information should be easy to find and should be placed directly under your name.
• Two page continuation: When writing a resume header for a two-page resume, it’s important to make sure it’s consistent and clear on both pages. Use the same font, size and formatting to maintain a consistent and professional look.
• Keep it professional: The subject of your resume should be professional and appropriate for the job you are applying for. Avoid using any inappropriate or offensive images or graphics, and keep the design simple and clean.
• Update: Be sure to place your header in the body of your resume instead of the header and footer sections when using word processing programs. Otherwise, ATS systems may not be able to read this section, which may cause your resume to get lost among other candidates!
• Evidence: The title of your resume is the first thing a hiring manager sees, and any errors or omissions can create a negative impression. Additionally, errors in this information can cause confusion or make it difficult for employers to contact you.