When it comes to writing a resume, even small choices — like verb tense — can shape how recruiters view your experience. One of the most common questions job seekers ask is: Should my resume be in past tense or present tense? Let’s break it down.
Why Verb Tense Matters on a Resume
Tense may seem like a detail, but it directly affects clarity and professionalism. It helps hiring managers understand what you’re doing now versus what you’ve done in the past. Used correctly, verb tense improves readability and shows attention to detail — both essential qualities when you understand what the purpose of a resume truly is: to clearly present your value as a candidate.
Use Past Tense for Previous Jobs
As a general rule: use past tense when describing jobs you no longer hold.
Examples:
Managed a team of five customer service agents
Created marketing materials for product launches
Reduced operational costs by 15%
Past tense shows that the task or achievement is complete, tied to a previous role.
Use Present Tense for Current Roles — With Caution
If you're still employed in a position, it's okay to use present tense — but only for duties you're actively doing.
Examples:
Lead weekly client meetings
Oversee digital marketing strategy
Coordinate product updates
However, if you’re describing accomplishments already completed in your current job, use past tense even for those.
Example:
Increased social media engagement by 40% in Q1
This combination provides clarity: it tells recruiters what you’re doing now and what you’ve already achieved.
Never Mix Tenses in the Same Bullet Point
Consistency is key. Within the same bullet, don’t switch tenses mid-sentence.
Wrong: Manage client accounts and helped streamline onboarding.
Right: Manage client accounts and help streamline onboarding.
If you’re unsure, revise your bullet to keep it tense-consistent or split it into two.
What About Other Sections of the Resume?
Summary section: Use present tense — you’re describing yourself today.
Example: “Results-driven sales manager with 8+ years of experience…”Education: Usually written in past tense unless still ongoing.
Example: “Graduated with honors” vs. “Pursuing Bachelor’s degree in…”
These rules also apply if you're wondering what skills to put on a resume with no experience. Even in an entry-level resume, tense matters — especially when describing internships, volunteer work, or school projects.
Pro Tips for Tense Consistency
Always proofread your resume for tense errors — they’re easy to overlook.
Keep a clear structure: past for previous roles, present for current tasks, past for completed accomplishments.
If in doubt, default to past tense — it’s safer and widely accepted.
Final Thoughts
Your resume is a professional document — not a journal. Choosing the correct tense makes your experience easier to understand and more impressive at first glance. Past for past roles, present for current duties, and always be consistent.
If you want to make sure everything is polished and aligned, our CV builder helps you structure your resume clearly and correctly — without overthinking every verb.
