Simple Resume Examples, Templates + Guide for 2025

When it comes to job applications, simple resume examples can serve as a great starting point.

Creating a clear and concise application is crucial to making a strong first impression on hiring managers.

In this article, we’ll explore various examples of basic resumes that effectively highlight your skills and experience, ensuring you catch the attention of potential employers.

Commercial Construction Project Manager Resume

Use template Download PDF

Electrical Engineering Technician Resume

Use template Download PDF

Use template Download PDF

Why basic resume format works best?

Efficient scanning and quick insights

In a busy hiring process, time is of the essence. HRs must quickly assess each candidate’s qualifications to determine if they’re a good fit for the role. A simple resume allows them to access the document rapidly without feeling bogged down by excessive details.

On average, recruiters spend just 6 seconds scanning before deciding whether to continue reading.

Highlighting key qualifications

Documents that are filled with irrelevant details or complex layouts make it harder for hiring managers to pinpoint the core skills and experience that matter most.

Basic resume examples allow the reader to immediately see how the background aligns with the job description, which helps them make quick, informed decisions.

Positive first impression

A cluttered, confusing application can signal a lack of attention to detail or poor communication skills.

In contrast, a organized and simple resume format projects professionalism. A potential employer will appreciate a paper that is easy to follow and reflects the ability to present information clearly and concisely, setting the stage for a positive evaluation.

Readability across platforms

With documents now often being reviewed on various devices—such as smartphones, tablets, and computers—a clean structure helps to remain legible regardless of screen size.

One simple yet effective way to ensure your application maintains its formatting is to save it as a PDF. This prevents misalignment that can occur with other file formats, such as Word.

Create your professional Resume in 10 minutes for FREE

Build My Resume

How to write a simple resume?

A basic resume ensures that the most important information is easy to find, making it simpler for recruiters to quickly assess your fit for the role. But what exactly makes a document effective?

Below, we break down the key elements every simple resume example should include.

1. Contact information

Your contact details should be the first thing visible, placed at the top of the page for quick access.

This section should have:

Full name: Use a bold classic font.
Phone: Ensure it’s a reliable number where you can be reached.
Email: Choose a professional address containing your name.
LinkedIn or portfolio link (optional): Add only if relevant to the role and properly updated.

Keep this part free of personal data like age, marital status, or a photo, as these are unnecessary and may clutter your draft.

2. Opening statement

This brief block provides hiring managers with an overview of your qualifications and the value you can bring. A professional summary is ideal for those with experience, while an objective is useful for candidates starting out or changing careers.

Summary: Mention your top strengths, years of experience, and key accomplishments.
Objective: State your aspirations and how you plan to contribute to the company.

Both should be concise—avoid over-explaining and stick to the key points that will grab attention immediately.

3. Work history

This section is crucial for demonstrating your abilities and showcasing your relevant experience. List your jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. For each position, include:

Job title: Clarify your role.

Company and location: Provide the name and where the organization is based.

Employment dates: Add the start and end month and year.

Key responsibilities: Focus on measurable results and significant tasks that directly relate to the job you're applying for.

Rather than long paragraphs, use bullet points to keep each entry clear and concise. Highlight accomplishments that demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

4. Skills

A simple resume should highlight a focused selection of abilities. This helps hiring managers see immediately what you excel at.

Hard skills are technical competencies, such as proficiency in software or industry-specific knowledge.
Soft skills are interpersonal strengths, such as communication or leadership, that are essential for teamwork and collaboration.

5. Education

Your academic background should be listed briefly, focusing on your most significant qualifications.

For each entry, write:

Diploma: List your highest level of education, such as “Bachelor’s in Marketing” or “Certified Project Manager.”
Institution name and location: Mention where you attended.
Graduation year (optional): If you’re a recent student, add the date, but more experienced candidates may leave it off.

6. Additional sections

Sometimes, optional information can help enhance your simple resume, depending on your background and the role. Examples include:

Certifications: Relevant credentials that showcase your expertise.

Volunteer work: Highlight it if it demonstrates skills important to the role.

Awards or honors: If you’ve received industry recognition or accolades, they can add credibility to your qualifications.

Be discerning when adding these information—ensure it genuinely demonstrates your strengths without unnecessary complexity.

7. Basic resume formatting

The layout of your document is crucial for readability. It makes it easy for hiring managers to find key information quickly.

Follow these guidelines for a streamlined design:

Keep it to one page: This is typically enough for those with fewer than 10 years of experience.
Choose legible fonts: Stick to options like Arial or Times New Roman in sizes between 10-12 pt.
Use headings: Bold or slightly larger section titles make it easy for the HR to navigate.
Leave space: Employ white spacing generously to keep the document from feeling crowded.