Written by: Andrew StonerExecutive Resume Writer and Career Coach
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Results-oriented software developer with a strong background in full-stack development and experience in Agile environments seeking a position with Edge360. Proficient in JavaScript, Node.js, React, and Ruby on Rails. Committed to delivering high-quality code and building scalable applications using over five years of experience and knowledge.
Mid-Level Software Developer, Latitude, Inc., Remote
October 2020 – Present
Junior Level Software Developer, BeaconFire Solution, Princeton, NJ
June 2017 – October 2020
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Software Engineering, September 2013 – June 2017
Iowa State University, Ames, IA
During your job search, a resume is the primary tool you’ll use to showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments to potential employers. Before you can start writing, you’ll need to pick an appropriate resume template. The best resume template for software developers should be visually appealing and industry-specific. Look for templates that showcase your technical abilities and relevant experience in a way that makes it easy for hiring managers to scan quickly. By choosing the right template, you can create a resume that sets you apart from other candidates and gets you noticed by employers in the tech industry.
After selecting your resume template, it’s time to dig in and fill out each section. Your resume should include all the basic elements, such as your contact information, profile, work experience, education, and key skills. Let’s examine what information you should include in your software developer resume.
Crafting a software developer resume that stands out from the competition requires proper planning and attention to detail. Beyond including all the basic resume info, you should take a strategic approach to your writing. Below we’ll cover tips for quantifying your experience, highlighting skills, using action verbs, and tailoring your resume for each job application. We’ll also discuss what to do if you don’t have much experience to draw from. These tips will help you create a customized and effective resume showcasing your unique skills and qualifications as a software developer.
In today’s competitive market, job seekers must distinguish themselves from the crowd of applicants. Quantifying your work experience on your software developer resume is one way to do this. You can show the results you achieved in previous roles using concrete numbers (e.g., the number of support tickets you’ve completed or the percentage increase in website traffic). This evidence demonstrates your technical skills and shows employers that you’re a results-driven professional who can bring tangible value to a company.
Another key to crafting a compelling software developer resume is aligning your document with the specific job requirements and company culture of each position you apply for. To do this, start by reviewing job descriptions carefully. Identify key skills and qualifications the company is looking for and incorporate these into your resume.
You should use some of the same language and industry-specific keywords they use. Doing so demonstrates that you have the skills and experience they seek. Tailoring your resume will increase your chances of landing an interview by speaking directly to the employer’s needs.
Show off your technical and interpersonal abilities with a key skills section. You should include two types of skills on your software developer resume: hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are the technical knowledge, such as coding languages and tools. Soft skills are personal qualities that help you work well with others, such as communication and problem-solving. By showing both types, you convey your ability to execute job duties while remaining professional and respectful of others. Include these skills in a simple bulleted list that is easy for recruiters to scan.
| Hard Skills | Soft Skills |
|---|---|
| Algorithm Design & Analysis | Adaptability |
| Cloud Computing | Critical Thinking |
| Object-Oriented Programming | Problem-Solving |
| Software Testing & Quality Assurance | Self-Learning |
| Source Code Management | Time Management |
In your professional experience section, avoid using passive language and vague terms. Use strong action verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments. These words will help convey your impact in previous roles and add energy and authority to your software developer resume. Use these verbs at the beginning of your sentences to paint a clear picture of how you executed your duties and show hiring managers that you achieved results. Take a look at our list of action verbs below to get you started:
If you’re an entry-level software developer with no prior experience, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to create a strong resume that will catch the attention of potential employers. Focus on highlighting any relevant coursework, projects, or internships you’ve completed that demonstrate your skills and knowledge of software development. Feel free to include extracurricular activities or personal projects that showcase your passion for the field. Emphasize your willingness to learn, ability to work collaboratively, and desire to problem-solve effectively. Consider obtaining a relevant certification or taking online courses to bolster your skills and make your resume stand out.
