Resume tips for experienced professionals after a layoff

Lead with the target role and results

Put a short headline and summary at the top that names the role you want, then fill each position with outcomes: what changed because of your work, with numbers where you have them. Duties describe the job; results describe you.

Handle a layoff or a gap in one line

A layoff is common and not a mark against you. If you want to mention it, one plain line is enough, such as “Position eliminated in a company-wide reduction in force.” For a gap, say what you did in it: consulting, study, caregiving, a project. Then move on to your results.

Get through the screen

• Use a simple layout with standard headings (Experience, Education, Skills) and real text, not images or text boxes.
• Use the words from the posting where they are true, especially job titles and tools.
• Save as a PDF or a Word file, whichever the application asks for.
• Two pages is normal for a long career; put the strongest material on page one.

Prove it beyond the page

A resume is a claim. An Executive Dossier backs it with the people who worked with you, which is what hiring managers check next.

Frequently asked questions