How to Write a U.S. Resume for 2026 Hiring Trends

1. Use a clean ATS-ready format

Applicant tracking systems in 2026 will prioritise structured, machine-readable resumes. A clean design improves both visibility and readability.

• Use a simple one- or two-column format with consistent spacing
• Avoid tables, text boxes, graphics, and decorative shapes
• Use standard headings such as Summary, Experience, Skills, Education
• Save as PDF unless a posting specifically requests Word format

2. Open with a targeted professional summary

A summary should function as a focused value statement rather than a biography. Highlight your strengths, tools, and relevance to the role.

Example:

Experienced Project Coordinator specialising in scheduling, reporting, and stakeholder communication across construction, logistics, and energy projects. Skilled in SAP, safety compliance, and fast-paced field support, delivering consistent results for employers in the Houston region.

3. Write bullet points that show impact

Hiring managers care about outcomes, not responsibilities. Each bullet should demonstrate value.

Formula:

Action verb + skill + result + employer benefit

Example:

• Coordinated daily scheduling for 22 field technicians, reducing delays and improving service times across multiple Houston districts.

4. Front-load keywords for 2026 ATS systems

ATS platforms rely on keyword matching. Review job postings for recurring skills and integrate them naturally into your summary, skills list, and experience bullets.

High-value keywords include:

• Project coordination, scheduling, reporting
• SAP, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Excel
• Compliance, documentation, auditing
• OSHA safety protocols
• Epic, Cerner, patient care (healthcare roles)
• Dispatch, routing, freight, inventory control (logistics roles)

5. Showcase technical skills clearly

A dedicated technical skills section helps both ATS and hiring managers scan your capabilities quickly.

Software

• SAP, Salesforce, QuickBooks, Excel, Teams, Outlook

Systems

• ATS platforms, CRM tools, EMR and EHR systems

Industry tools

• Oil and gas reporting systems, Epic, Cerner, routing platforms

6. Use 2026 hiring trends to your advantage

Trend 1: Shorter resumes perform better

• One page for most early- and mid-career roles
• Two pages for senior, technical, or leadership roles

Trend 2: Quantified results stand out

Employers want measurable achievements, especially in energy, logistics, healthcare, and administrative roles.

Trend 3: Soft skills must be demonstrated

Show them through actions, not lists. For example, coordinating stakeholders across departments demonstrates communication and teamwork.

Trend 4: Local relevance matters

Resumes that reference Houston-relevant industries tend to perform better in the region.

7. Add certifications that matter in 2026

Useful certifications include:

• PMP or CAPM
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• CPR and BLS
• CompTIA A+ or Security+
• Texas Notary Public
• TWIC card

8. Match your resume to the Houston economy

Houston’s job market is shaped by major industries like healthcare, energy, port operations, logistics, and technology. Aligning your resume with these sectors can improve relevance and employer interest.

9. Keep education and certifications clean

Example format:

Bachelor of Arts, University of Houston
Completed: 2020

Certifications

• OSHA 10
• CPR and BLS
• SAP training certificate

10. Remove information that weakens your resume

• Photos
• Home address details
• Jobs older than 15 years (unless highly relevant)
• High school (if you have college or higher)
• Objective statements
• Personal information unrelated to the role

Conclusion

A strong U.S. resume in 2026 balances clarity, measurable value, modern formatting, and alignment with Houston’s hiring landscape. By focusing on impact, structure, and relevance, you improve your chances of getting through ATS filters and earning interviews.