How to Modernize Your Resume Without Erasing Your Career History

If your resume still lists references, an "Objective" at the top, or includes roles from the 1990s without context, it might be time to update it. But updating your resume doesn’t mean starting over or removing the rich career history you’ve built. Modernizing your resume is about showcasing your experience in a way that resonates with today’s hiring managers—clearly, concisely, and with relevance.

Today’s advice to exclude experience older than ten years hurts more professionals than it helps. It is important to present yourself in the best light, rather than following random advice and trends.

Here’s how to bring your resume into the present without erasing the past:

1. Lead with a Professional Summary — Not an Objective