The header on a resume serves a dual purpose: to provide your contact information and set the tone for the rest of your resume. This guide will give you some simple tips to write a resume header that's both polished and effective.
The resume header should be the easiest part of your resume to write—after all, it's just your name and contact information! But it's also the first part of your resume that an employer sees, so it needs to make an instant impression. For help creating a standout header, you can use resume AI tools that suggest layouts and professional phrasing.
We'll show you how to write a resume header that includes all of the essential details and stands out among other applications.
What to include in a resume header
A resume header is a section at the top of your resume with your name and contact information. These details tell a hiring manager who you are and how to reach you if they want to set up an interview.
While you have some creative control over the design of your header, it needs to contain some essential information about you. A header for a resume should have these key elements:
Your name
Your name should be at the top of your resume header. Bold your name or use a larger font size to make it stand out. It should be the first thing a hiring manager notices about your resume.
Include both your first and last name. Provide the name you use professionally in the workplace. For example, if your full name is William, but you only go by Bill at work, put Bill on your resume. Just make sure that you're consistent across all of your profiles and application documents, so that you don't confuse a hiring manager.
Job title
Below your name, provide your job title. Including this information tells a hiring manager that you're a fit for the role before they even look at your skills or experience.
It's good practice to use the title of the job you're applying for, as long as it's similar to the job you currently have. For example, if you're a digital marketing coordinator and the new job title is digital marketing specialist, it's fine to adjust your title slightly to match the target role.
If you have noteworthy certifications or degrees in your field, such as a CPA credential, you can also list those below your name.
Expert tip
Keep your resume header on brand
Think of your resume header as your professional signature. It should have the same design, layout, and content across all of your application documents, including your cover letter.
Location
It used to be standard to list your full mailing address on your resume, but that's not the case anymore. Instead, only provide your city and state. If you're applying for a job in a different location from where you live, you can also include “willing to relocate” in your resume header.
Phone number
Many hiring managers call candidates to get more information or set up interviews. Make sure that you list a phone number where a recruiter can easily contact you. Don't forget to record a professional voicemail greeting in case you miss their call.
Email address
Email is another popular way for hiring managers to contact job candidates. Include your email information in your header. Use a professional email address that's easy to understand. For example, you may use one that has your first and last name or your initials.
Expert tip
Don't provide your work contact information
If you're looking for a new job before you've left your current one, never include your work contact information on your resume. For example, don't give hiring managers your work email or phone number. It makes you look unprofessional, and you also risk your current employer learning about your plans to leave.
How to make your resume header stand out
At a minimum, resume headers should have all of the details listed above. But if you want to make yours stand out, consider adding some other details to your header.
Some good options for additional header elements include:
- Website or portfolio — If you have a website or online portfolio, you can include a link to it in your resume header. Make sure that it's up to date with your recent experience, skills, or projects.
- LinkedIn profile — Similar to a website or portfolio, your LinkedIn profile can also be valuable to include in the header on a resume. A recruiter can go to your profile to view your qualifications in more detail or check to see if you have mutual connections. Read our guide on whether to include LinkedIn on your resume.
- Other social media profiles — If you have social media accounts specifically for professional reasons, you can add your profile or handle to your resume header. For example, if you're a journalist who uses X (formerly Twitter) to connect with sources and share your articles, you can include that handle.
However, think carefully before sharing this information, especially if you post personal information on those accounts. The information in your header should reflect your professionalism and competence.
Resume header examples by job
Looking for some inspiration? Take a look at our copyable resume heading examples for different occupations:
Summer job
If you're a student looking for a summer job, keep your resume header simple. You don't need to list a job title, but you should put your full name, location, phone number, and email address.
Computer science internship
When applying for an internship, list your major or degree in your resume. For example, you can list “Computer Science Student” as your title.
Retail
The header on a resume for a retail position should have your name, contact information, and job title, such as “Retail Associate.” If you're applying for in-store jobs in a different city or state, make sure that you state your willingness to relocate.
Human resources manager
For a management position, your resume header needs to convey confidence and professionalism. Consider adding your LinkedIn profile to show off your leadership skills and network.
Creative director
When you're applying for a high-level position, such as creative director, find ways to make your resume header stand out. For example, a splash of color can help demonstrate your creativity and differentiate your application.
FAQs about resume headers
Here are the answers to some other frequently asked questions about making a header for your resume:
How do you design a good resume header?
Think about the format of your resume as you create the header. Like the rest of the document, the header should be appropriate for your job or industry. For example, you may add a pop of color if you're a creative professional, or you may use a formal design if you work in a more traditional field.
Should a resume header be horizontal or vertical?
Depending on the design or layout, resume headers can be either horizontal or vertical. A horizontal resume header includes all of your contact details at the top of the page. With other resume formats, a vertical header may work better—in the left or right margin. With a vertical header format, include other information on the same side of the page for balance, such as skills listed directly below your resume header.
How should you format the header on a two-page resume?
In most cases, your resume should be no longer than one page. However, professionals in certain industries or those with many years of experience may need a two-page resume. If you have a two-page resume, include your header at the top of both pages. The headers should be identical, so that a hiring manager can easily identify your application no matter which page they're reading.
Should you include a photo in your resume header?
No, it's usually unnecessary to include a photo of yourself. Unlike other countries, US employers don't expect to see photos on resumes, and providing one may even lead to potential discrimination. There may, however, be an exception if you work in a field where your appearance matters to the hiring decision, such as for acting or modeling.
For more ideas, browse the hundreds of resume examples we have available on our template gallery. If you see one that you like, click on it and follow the steps for making your own using our easy Resume Builder tool.
Tools & guides mentioned in this article
- AI Resume Builder
Build an ATS-ready resume with AI writing help and live preview.
- Resume With No Experience
Simple header and structure tips for first jobs.
- Resume Format for Graduates
Where contact info fits in a student layout.
- Free ATS Checker
Upload your resume and get an instant ATS compatibility score.