How to Edit Existing Resume

This guide will show you how to edit your existing resume with examples, fix-it tips and great updating tools. That way, you can submit a perfect resume that scores an interview!

Edit My Resume

Editing your existing resume: updating benefits

A polished and updated resume shows you’re on top of your professional game. So, submit a fresh, sharply edited resume for every job you apply to.

Updating your existing resume can also save you the stress of writing a new resume. If you’re applying to many jobs, editing a previous version of your resume will save you time.

Ready to update your resume but need help figuring out where to start? Resume Check is a great tool; it provides AI-powered insights to refine your resume, highlighting areas for improvement and suggesting phrases for you!

for improvement and suggesting phrases for you!

It gives you a score and shows which sections you need to edit and fix! See here:

Take advantage of the Resume Check and its personalized guidance and expert recommendations for editing each section of your resume!

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How to edit your existing resume in three steps

H2: How to edit your existing resume in three steps

Fixing your resume comes down to grammar, clarity, organization and resume design. Here, you’ll learn how to take care of those resume basics.

Take the time to review your resume and look for ways to improve it. It should be relevant to your industry, present your best qualifications, and look professional.

Here’s how to fix your resume in four steps:

Use a grammar and spelling check.

Mistakes can cost you the job. Computer programs target where you can fix or enhance your resume by removing errors, improving word choice or rephrasing statements for clarity.

Here are some extra tips for proofreading your resume:

Keep consistent: Check for details like section headings, formatting, font and bullet points to ensure everything matches and stays cohesive.
Mind your word choice: Try to catch instances on your resume where you repeat phrases or sound flat. Add pizzazz with some resume action verbs.
Briefer is better: Try to give vivid, clear explanations in your resume with the fewest words possible.

Nail resume formatting.

Ensure your formatting is clean and up-to-date. This means:

Easy-reading fonts only: Pick professional resume fonts like Arial, Cambria, Helvetica, Times New Roman or Calibri. The font size should range from 11-13.
Keep margins and white space: Margins are, by default, one-inch in most word processors. Line breaks should be 1.15 – 1.5 for the right white space.
Use bullet points: Bullet points can save space in your work history and skills sections. They help make your resume easier to scan.
File name correctly: You should save your resume doc in this format [First Name/Last Name – [Job Title] Resume], e.g., “Brenda Kelly – Nurse Resume” so that it’s clear what the document is.

Optimize your resume content

Target your skills and work history to the job post or ad.
Remove anything unhelpful to the role you’re applying to.
Give your resume a rapid, quick flow of information.
Try using AI to enhance your resume.

How to update your resume

Once you’ve fixed any problems, you must update your resume for each job you apply to. Next, we’ll break down strategies to update each section of your resume for maximum appeal.

Review resume examples for inspiration

Looking at resume examples for your specific job or industry can inspire you with ideas to enhance your document, whether finding a resume design you like or a better way to phrase your experience!

Transform your resume’s style

Graphic artists created all of our resume templates. They’re designed to look good and can give your resume a makeover with a single click. Just upload yours to our Resume Builder, which features 25+ template options!

Freshen your resume header

The most important thing about your resume header is that all contact information is correct. But there are also ways you can enhance it to your job-seeking advantage!

Here are tips to update your resume’s header:

Save space by skipping your street address in the contact information; your home city/state is enough.
You could add a headline phrase.
Consider adding a dash of color to your name to add visual flair.
List a professional email address that reflects your name. Keep personal and funny-sounding email addresses off your resume.
Link to your website or portfolio if you have one.
Consider adding a link to your LinkedIn or professional social media profile.

Update My Resume

Once you’ve fixed any problems, you must update your resume for each job you apply to. Next, we’ll break down strategies to update each section of your resume for maximum appeal.

Review resume examples for inspiration

Looking at resume examples for your specific job or industry can inspire you with ideas to enhance your document, whether finding a resume design you like or a better way to phrase your experience!

Transform your resume’s style

Freshen your resume header

The most important thing about your resume header is that all contact information is correct. But there are also ways you can enhance it to your job-seeking advantage!

Here are tips to update your resume’s header:

Save space by skipping your street address in the contact information; your home city/state is enough.
You could add a headline phrase.
Consider adding a dash of color to your name to add visual flair.
List a professional email address that reflects your name. Keep personal and funny-sounding email addresses off your resume.
Link to your website or portfolio if you have one.
Consider adding a link to your LinkedIn or professional social media profile.

Optimize your resume summary or objective statement

This information lives at the top of your resume and is the first thing an employer reads about you. Your resume summary or objective statement should sell your top skills and why you’d be a good fit for the role.

Tips for updating your resume objective or summary:

Make sure the language is engaging and sweeps the reader along.
Choose one or the other! Summaries are better for candidates with job experience. Objective statements are better for entry-level candidates.
Try to feature resume keywords that meet the critical needs of the employer.
Mention your top skills that make you a valuable asset.

Revamp your resume’s skills section

It’s essential to keep the skills section of your resume fresh and relevant. Regularly update it with transferable skills you’ve gained from your current job, volunteer work, freelance projects and even relevant hobbies. Target the skills you see listed in the job post or ad.

Here are a few pointers for refining your resume’s skills section:

Organize your skills into sections like “Technical Skills” and “Interpersonal Skills” for a clearer presentation.
List a maximum of eight skills.
Make sure you’re including an even balance of hard skills and soft skills.

H3: Editing your resume work history section

The easiest way to fix your work history section is by showcasing previous jobs to feature goals and tasks most similar to the current role. Try to focus on achievements and not just day-to-day tasks.

Here are more tips for updating your resume work history section:

Trim the amount of information and bullet points you include for older jobs.
Include the most bullet points for your most recent or most similar role.
Keep only the past 15 years of work history present on your resume.
Add in numbers or statistics wherever possible under each job listing.
Try featuring your job title before the employer’s name; it will make it easier for the hiring manager to see your career growth.

Updating your resume education section

When you list your education section on a resume, it’s standard to include the year you graduated college, only if it was in the past two years. If it’s been over two years since you graduated, you should take the year graduated off your resume because it hints at your age.

Here are more tips to enhance your resume’s education section:

Arrange your educational qualifications chronologically, starting with the most recent degree or certification.
Mention the institution’s name, the degree obtained, your major or field of study, and any academic honors or awards received.
Only include a graduation date if it was within the past two years.
Highlight any specialized skills or knowledge acquired through your education that demonstrate your qualifications if you lack experience.

More resume updating ideas

Add links: Since most resumes are sent digitally, it’s acceptable to include links to your work, website, press about you or your professional social media account.
Include a volunteer work section: Adding a volunteer work section to your resume can benefit you if you lack paid experience or if the company you want to work for values difference makers.
Feature honors and certifications if possible: If you have two or more awards, you can create a whole “Awards and Honors” section to spotlight them.

Unleash the power of a resume builder: A Resume Builder is the fastest, most effective tool for creating a resume because it features a database of expert-written content to make suggestions for you.

Don’t forget your cover letter!

After you’re done editing your resume, remember you also need a great cover letter to accompany it!

We’ve got lots of resources to help you make a cover letter:

Check out our entire library of cover letter examples. You can browse by industry or job title to find a letter that inspires you!
Customizable cover letter templates are like preformatted designs where you can plug your information.
How to Write a Cover Letter: A complete step-by-step guide
The Cover Letter Builder: This award-winning tool can help you complete your document in under 15 minutes.

Build my cover letter

Key takeaways

To recap some of the main points about editing your resume.

You should edit your resume whenever you apply for a new job.
Update your resume annually or upon any significant professional change to ensure it remains up-to-date and accurate.
Fix your document to follow proper resume formatting rules.
Customize your resume for each job application by aligning your skills and experiences with the job description, using keywords and relevant highlights to make your application stand out.
Revise your resume’s summary or objective to reflect your current professional goals and highlight your most pertinent skills and experiences.
Enhance your resume’s impact by including measurable achievements, maintaining a professional format, and ensuring accuracy in all details.

Remember that we’ve got a great digital tool to help you edit your document: our Resume Check.

It will evaluate and score your resume and give suggestions to improve it.

FAQ

How often should you update your resume?

You should always update your resume before you send it to a new job. That’s an essential requirement.

It’s wise to update your resume annually or whenever you gain new skills, complete significant projects or change jobs. Keeping your resume current ensures its details are accurate and you’re ready to apply if any opportunities pop up.

How do I fix gaps in my employment in my resume?

Address employment gaps by constructively explaining the time in your cover letter or resume. You could include volunteering, studying, or freelancing.

A functional resume format can also help focus on your skills more than chronological formats or combination formats.

When is the best time to update your resume?

The best time to update your resume is when you’re not actively seeking a new job. This gives you the time and freedom to carefully craft and tailor your resume without the pressure of a deadline, ensuring it reflects your most recent accomplishments and skills.

How do I fix my resume for free?

Use free resources online, such as the hundreds of resume articles on LiveCareer. You’ll find topics ranging from How to Format and Upload Your Resume for the Online Job Search to How to List an Unfinished College Degree on Your Resume + Examples.

Additionally, you can seek feedback from mentors or colleagues and use their advice to improve your resume.

What’s the best way to tailor my resume for a specific job application?

Review the job description carefully and match your resume to the keywords and skills listed. Emphasize your relevant experiences and skills that align directly with what the employer is seeking. This demonstrates you are a strong fit for the role.

Should I fix my resume summary or objective statement on my resume?

Yes, updating your summary or objective statement to reflect your current professional goals and highlighting the essential qualifications relevant to the roles you are applying for is necessary.

How can I fix my resume to stand out to employers?

Make your resume stand out by including quantifiable achievements, using a clean and professional format, and ensuring it is error-free.

Tailor your resume for each application to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences, and consider adding a unique section like “Key Projects” or “Professional Highlights.”

Should I update my resume with references?

It’s generally discouraged to include references on your resume. Instead, have a separate list of references ready to provide if the employer requests them. This helps save space for more critical content on your resume.

How we reviewed this article

Over the past 15 years, we’ve helped more than 10 million job seekers build stronger resumes, discover their career paths, interview confidently, and boost their chances of finding the right job faster. Review our Editorial Policy to learn more about our process.