The Title

The more straightforward of the two elements is the Title, and its purpose is self-explanatory. It’s two to four words that define the exact title of a position or type of work you’re looking for, centered at the top of your resume, and typically presented in all caps. A Title sets the tone of your resume; it quickly tells a busy reader what you’d like to do for them—and how to think about you while reading your resume.

When using a Title to apply for a specific position, use the exact words presented in the advertisement or job posting. For example, in previous jobs you may have been called a Line Supervisor, but if a position is advertised for “Production Team Captain,” that’s what you want to use as your title, because that’s the exact job you’re going for. Note that if you think you can tackle the position, it’s OK to use those words in your Title, even if you’ve never had that exact title on a job.

On the other hand, if you’re merely interested in working for a company in any capacity and would explore other job openings with them, then don’t limit yourself to a specific job title. In that case, use a wide-ranging, general Title such as PRODUCTION OPERATIONS or MANAGEMENT / OPERATIONS.

The Title is easily changed with every resume you send out, and it should be tailored to suit the job opening. Examples include the following:

  CARPENTRY / CONSTRUCTION

  PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT or MANUFACTURING / OPERATIONS

  MECHANIC: Production Equipment (update type of equipment as needed)

  WAREHOUSING / DISTRIBUTION or WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS

  ROUTE DRIVER or ROUTE SALES REPRESENTATIVE