Here's how you can optimize your project manager's resume with essential sections.

1 Contact Info

Your contact information is the gateway for potential employers to reach out to you, so it must be accurate and complete. Include your full name, phone number, professional email address , and LinkedIn profile . If you have a professional website or portfolio that showcases your work, include that as well. Make sure this section is prominently placed at the top of your resume for easy reference. Remember, the easier it is for employers to contact you, the better your chances of landing an interview.

2 Profile Summary

A compelling profile summary acts as your elevator pitch, highlighting your key qualifications and setting the tone for the rest of your resume. In a few sentences, summarize your years of experience, project management style, and most significant achievements. Use this section to emphasize your leadership skills, ability to meet deadlines, and how you've contributed to your previous employers' success. This is your first opportunity to make a strong impression, so make it count.

3 Core Skills

The core skills section is where you list the project management competencies that you excel in. Include a mix of technical skills like proficiency in project management software and soft skills such as leadership and communication. Tailor this section to the job description, focusing on the skills that are most relevant to the position you're applying for. This will show potential employers that you have the specific abilities they're looking for in a project manager.

4 Professional Experience

Your professional experience is the heart of your resume. Detail your previous roles, focusing on responsibilities and achievements that demonstrate your project management expertise. Use action verbs to describe your experience and quantify your accomplishments when possible. For example, mention the budget you managed, the size of the teams you led, or the percentage by which you increased efficiency. This section should tell the story of your career progression and success as a project manager.

5 Education & Certifications

In the education and certifications section, list your relevant degrees, certifications, and any ongoing professional development courses. If you hold a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or similar credentials, make sure they're prominently featured. This section not only shows your formal education but also your commitment to staying current in the field of project management.

6 Additional Sections

Consider including additional sections if they add value to your resume. These can be areas such as volunteer work , professional affiliations , publications, or speaking engagements related to project management. These sections can provide a more holistic view of your capabilities and interests and demonstrate your dedication to the field beyond your day-to-day work responsibilities. Remember, every section should reinforce your suitability for the project manager role you're targeting.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?