How to write a catchy resume headline (with examples)

Crafting a compelling resume headline is similar to composing the opening line of a best-selling novel. It's your chance to capture the hiring manager's attention and encourage them to continue reading your resume to learn about your professional background and how you can benefit their organization. This comprehensive guide explains what a resume headline is and why it has an important role to play in your job search. We highlight steps you can take to write a headline that resonates positively with prospective employers and share 40 examples of catchy resume headlines from various industries to inspire you.

What is a resume headline?

A resume header is a one-sentence summary of your career. You can think of it as a snappy little introduction to hiring managers. Sometimes referred to as a resume title or subtitle, it aims to make a good first impression and entice the recruiter to continue reading your application.

Why is a resume headline important?

Including a resume headline is a great way to make your job application stand out from those of other candidates with similar backgrounds. It gives a quick overview of your most impressive skills and expertise, making it easy for hiring managers to assess whether you have the key strengths they're looking for in a new employee. A polished resume headline can also make you a more memorable candidate, increasing your chances of receiving an interview request.

Where to place your resume headline

Your resume headline goes at the top of the page. Place it on the first line directly underneath your name and contact information. Depending on your resume layout, you may choose to include your headline in the upper right corner next to your name and contact details. Your goal is to ensure the headline is one of the first elements hiring managers notice when reviewing your credentials, so consider using a slightly larger or bolder font to make it stand out.

"A polished resume headline can also make you a more memorable candidate, increasing your chances of receiving an interview request."

How to craft a memorable resume headline

Ready to craft the perfect resume headline to land your next job? Here are some tips to help you make it professional, engaging, and memorable.

Identify specific skills, experiences, and themes

Focus on specific skills and experiences that distinguish you from competitors to emphasize how the potential employer could benefit from adding you to their team. To develop a concise resume headline, review your career history to identify any common themes. Choose the most impressive one to include in your one-sentence pitch. If you have extensive experience in a specific industry or role, consider listing the number of years you've worked in that role.

Mention relevant awards and certifications

If you've received a prestigious award or certification in your industry, here's your chance to highlight it. Incorporating one or two of your biggest achievements in your resume headline reduces the likelihood of hiring managers overlooking them. Choose an award or certification that other candidates may not have to set yourself apart.

Highlight well-known organizations

Have you worked for a prominent company in your industry? Now is the time to mention that. Consider highlighting the most impressive company you've worked for in your resume headline. This can be especially helpful if you've had several jobs since that organization employed you. Professionals who work with Fortune 500 companies and popular clients on a contract basis or through an agency may also find this useful.

Draft multiple resume headlines for different roles

While resume headlines are short, you may find it challenging to decide what to include in them. If you're applying for several roles in different industries, consider creating a resume headline tailored for each position. Reviewing job descriptions can help you determine the most relevant career experience, accomplishments, and skills required by the employer. Approaching your resume headline this way can also help you identify specific keywords hiring managers are looking for and improve your chances of making it through the application tracking system.

40 examples of catchy resume headlines

Looking for some inspiration? Here are 40 resume headlines crafted for professionals in various industries and with differing levels of experience, all designed to highlight specific skills and achievements:

Innovative software developer specializing in mobile applications
Proactive environmental engineer with expertise in sustainable design
Expert social media strategist with eight years of experience growing online communities
Customer-focused retail manager with over a decade of experience building successful teams
Seasoned CFO with 15 years of experience and a passion for financial restructuring
Award-winning journalist specializing in international law and regulations
Detail-oriented tax specialist with a proven track record of saving clients money
Creative web designer focused on developing user-friendly layouts and interfaces
Pioneering biotech researcher focused on gene editing technologies
Accomplished STEM educator skilled in using progressive teaching methods to increase test scores
Dynamic sales executive with experience tapping into new markets
Clinical psychologist with a specialty in cognitive behavioral techniques
Versatile production supervisor with a Lean Six Sigma certification
Results-driven real estate broker with multi-million-dollar sales
Veteran military officer with advanced strategic planning skills
Charismatic hotel manager known for exceptional guest service scores
Professional civil engineer with land development and public works experience
Advanced practice nurse with a focus on geriatric care
Proficient content creator specializing in technology and innovation
Accomplished art director with a bold and modern vision
Experienced construction project manager with high-rise expertise
Focused nutritionist with a passion for community health-funded programs
Seasoned supply chain analyst known for executing successful cost-reduction strategies
Cybersecurity expert with seven years of experience in the financial services industry
Talented ceramic artist with internationally acclaimed exhibitions
Data analyst with a specialization in predictive analytics
Multi-faceted artist and performer with extensive Broadway and film experience
Certified welder with expertise in the aerospace and automotive industries
Progressive school principal with a record of improving student test scores
Bilingual translator specializing in legal and medical documents
Experienced veterinarian with a focus on caring for exotic pets
Professional photographer with several awards from nature and wildlife publications
Skilled electrician with a focus on renewable energy installations
Strategic brand manager with experience launching successful campaigns in new markets
Dedicated urban planner with a passion for sustainable city development
Experienced human resources manager specializing in talent acquisition and employee development
Versatile project engineer with a strong background in renewable energy solutions
Creative content strategist with a knack for creating engaging social media campaigns
Detail-orientated financial analyst with expertise in risk management and forecasting
Seasoned health care administrator driving operational excellence and patient-centered care

With these insights and examples, you're ready to craft a resume headline that summarizes your professional career and positions you as an irresistible candidate in the eyes of hiring managers. So, polish your headline, upload your resume to your CareerBuilder account, and start prepping for your next job interview.