Have you ever been curious on where resume development originated? You may be interested to know that resume writing commenced back in the 15th century. Here is a brief history on the origin of resume writing.
Origins
The concept of the resume dates back to the 15th century. The term "résumé" is derived from the French word for "summary." The first known use of a resume can be traced to Leonardo da Vinci in 1482. He wrote a letter to the Duke of Milan detailing his skills and experience, essentially creating the first documented resume.
20th Century Development
Resumes became more formalized and widely used in the early 20th century. By the 1930s and 1940s, resumes started to include personal information such as weight, height, marital status, and religion, along with education and work experience. During this time, resumes were handwritten or typed on a typewriter.
Post-World War II Era
After World War II, resumes began to shift focus. The booming economy and the rise of corporate America in the 1950s led to resumes becoming a standard tool for job seekers. The focus shifted more towards skills, professional experience, and educational background. This period also saw the introduction of more structured formats and templates.
The Digital Age
The 1980s and 1990s brought about significant changes with the advent of personal computers and word processing software. This made it easier for individuals to create and update their resumes. The introduction of email and online job boards in the late 1990s revolutionized the way resumes were submitted and reviewed. This era also saw the emergence of applicant tracking systems (ATS), which began to influence how resumes were formatted and written to ensure they could be read by automated systems.
21st Century and Modern Resumes
In the 21st century, resumes have continued to evolve with the rise of digital and social media. Platforms like LinkedIn have become integral parts of job searching and networking. Modern resumes often include hyperlinks to online portfolios, social media profiles, and other digital assets. The format and design have also become more flexible, with an emphasis on readability, conciseness, and personalization.
Key Trends and Future Directions
Visual Resumes: The use of infographics and visual elements to make resumes more engaging and easier to read.
Video Resumes: Some job seekers use video to present their skills and experience, adding a personal touch.
AI and Machine Learning: These technologies are being used to match resumes with job descriptions more effectively, helping recruiters identify the best candidates more quickly.
In summary, the resume has transformed from a simple list of skills in the 15th century to a comprehensive digital document that reflects a candidate's professional journey and personal brand.
If you want a 21st century resume that is in line with current demands, please reach out to one of our great resume writers at info@greatresumewriter.com .
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