US resume format: example and tips
In the United States a CV is usually called a resume. Employers expect a short, results-focused document, and many large companies read it with an applicant tracking system first.
At a glance
| What it is called | Resume (in the US, a “CV” usually means a long academic CV) |
|---|---|
| Length | 1 page; 2 pages if you have many years of experience |
| Paper size | US Letter (8.5 × 11 in) |
| Photo | Leave it out |
| Personal details | Name, city and state, phone, email and LinkedIn. Leave out date of birth, age, marital status, nationality and photo. |
| Language | English (US spelling) |
Example
Make my CV for the United States
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Local tips
- Start with a 2–3 line summary, then your experience with the newest job first.
- Write achievements, not duties, and add numbers where they are true: “cut costs by 12%”, “managed 8 accounts”.
- Many US employers avoid personal details such as age or a photo to prevent discrimination claims, so including them can work against you.
- You do not need “References available upon request”: employers will ask.
- Change the keywords for each job post. Seerty’s Job match shows which ones are missing.
Is this format ATS-friendly?
Yes. Whatever the country, keep one column, real text and standard headings. Every CV made with Seerty is built this way, so you can follow local customs without confusing applicant tracking systems.
Customs change between employers and industries. When a job post asks for something specific, follow the job post.
Other countries
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Created by Seerty in Bahrain, for job seekers everywhere