current resume trends Archives

Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time or job-searching after a break, your resume is still your golden ticket to getting noticed.

But here’s the catch: what hiring managers expect on a resume in 2026 looks very different from what it did in 2020. And if you’re still listing “proficient in Microsoft Word” at the top… We need to talk.

At That’s Good HR, we help candidates across Indianapolis land jobs in HR, medical admin, customer service, and accounting, and we’ve seen thousands (yes, thousands) of resumes.

Some are five stars, and others are…well, let’s just say works in progress.

So, if you haven’t updated your resume in a while (or… ever), here are the 2026 resume trends to know before you hit “submit.”

Format + Structure Resume Trends You Need to Know

Your resume layout says more about you than you think, especially when recruiters only spend seconds scanning.

A cluttered, hard-to-read format can make even the most qualified candidate look unprepared. On the flip side, a clean, well-structured resume sends the message that you’re organized, thoughtful, and serious about the role.

Formatting is about readability, flow, and making sure the right details jump off the page. If your resume looks like a wall of text, chances are it’s not getting read.

Skip the Objective Statement

Outdated and unhelpful. Use a professional summary instead to showcase who you are and the value you bring in 2–3 concise lines.

Example:
Administrative professional with 5+ years of experience supporting fast-paced teams. Skilled in scheduling, project coordination, and making inboxes behave. Known for staying calm under pressure and keeping chaos at bay.

Keep It Chronological

Fancy formats and Canva resumes may look cute, but they can confuse hiring software. Skip any design elements on your resume, unless you know for sure they’re best practice in your industry (graphic design, brand design, etc.).

Stick with a clean, chronological format, especially for roles in admin, HR, customer service, and accounting.

It helps hiring managers understand your story without having to shape-shift into detectives.

Embrace White Space

Crowded, text-heavy resumes feel overwhelming. Make it skimmable.

Your resume should invite someone to keep reading, not feel like a wall of text. Use bullet points, spacing, and clean headers.

More white space = more breathing room for your brilliance.

What to Say on your Resume (and How to Say It)

How you write your resume matters just as much as what’s on it.

Clunky phrasing, run-on sentences, or vague buzzwords can distract from your actual experience. Clear, confident writing helps hiring managers quickly understand your value and makes you look polished and professional before you even step into the interview.

Think of your resume as your first impression on paper – make it count.

Tailoring Is a Must

Stop mass-applying with the same generic resume. Hiring managers can tell when you didn’t even glance at the job description. (We know it hurts, but it’s true.)

Instead, mirror the language in the posting, yes, word for word in some cases (we’re looking at you, ATS bots).

Let Soft Skills Shine (with Proof)

Everyone says they’re a “team player.” Don’t just tell us. Show us. Embed soft skills into your bullet points by highlighting the impact your work had.

Instead of saying:
Detail-oriented and a reliable team player.

Try this instead:
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to process 150+ client invoices monthly with 99% accuracy and zero missed deadlines.

Related Post: Can a Temporary Job Teach You New Skills?

Quantify What (and When) You Can

Numbers stand out, plain and simple. Wherever possible, include measurable results to show the impact of your work.

Here’s what we mean: how many calls you handled per day, how much money you saved the team, or how quickly you processed tasks. Specifics like “reduced onboarding time by 30%” or “supported a team of 5 executives across 3 time zones” say a whole lot more than vague descriptions ever could.

Skills Sections That Actually Work

The “Skills” section of your resume is back, but not in alaundry-list-of-every-program-you’ve-ever-touched kind of way.

In 2026, hiring managers want to see a quick snapshot of what tools you can confidently use on day one.

With so many companies running on remote or hybrid workflows, digital comfort is essential, even for non-tech roles like admin, HR, or customer service.

And if your skills section is either completely missing or full of outdated tools, it’s time for a refresh.

Show Off Relevant Tech

Even in non-tech roles, digital fluency matters.

List software and tools you’re confident using, Zoom, Excel, Monday, Google Workspace, whatever fits the job.

Think about what you used in your most recent roles and what shows up in the job description. Tech comfort is a must-have in 2026, and including the right tools upfront saves hiring managers the guesswork.

Keep It Focused

Aim for 6–10 modern, relevant skills tailored to the job you’re applying for.

A focused list is easier to skim and helps employers quickly see if you’re a match.

If you haven’t touched a program since college or it’s not remotely related to the job, leave it off. Less is more, especially when every word on your resume counts.

Common Resume Red Flags to Avoid

Let’s not lose the interview over a preventable mistake, yeah? The little things, like an outdated email address or a wall-of-text layout, can tank your chances before you even get a call back.

The good news? They’re also the easiest things to fix.

Fluff + Filler Language

“Go-getter,” “hard worker,” “self-starter”… we’ve seen it all. Get to the point with clear accomplishments, not cliches.

Outdated Contact Info + References

No one needs to read, “References available upon request.” And while you’re at it, make sure your email isn’t still tied to your teenage alter ego (cough, cough, dancer_chic_94@hotmail.com).

Too Much Experience, Not Enough Focus

If your resume lists every job since 2005 with no relevance to the role, it’s time to trim.

Focus on recent, transferable experience that supports your goals. Keep it relevant, concise, and geared toward where you want to go, not just where you’ve been.

Local Indianapolis Help = Better Results

Looking for your next great role in HR, admin, customer service, or accounting? That’s Good HR can help you get there.

We’ve been connecting job seekers with Indianapolis employers for over two decades, and we know what local companies are looking for in a strong candidate.

Our team can help you find roles that match your experience, walk you through the hiring process, and connect you with employers who value what you bring to the table.

Ready to start your search? Submit your resume here to get connected with real, local opportunities, no bots, no black holes, just real job search support from great humans.