What is the primary purpose of a resume?

The primary purpose of a resume is to summarize a candidate's qualifications and experiences for job applications. This document serves as a marketing tool for job seekers, presenting their skills, work history, educational background, and professional accomplishments in a concise format that employers can quickly review. A well-crafted resume highlights relevant experiences that align with the job for which the candidate is applying, enabling potential employers to assess the candidate's suitability for a position at a glance.

In contrast, elaborating on personal hobbies may provide insight into a candidate's personality but does not focus on their professional qualifications essential for job applications. A list of references is typically included in a separate section or provided upon request but is not a core component of the resume itself. Additionally, while salary expectations are relevant to job discussions, they are not included in the resume, which focuses solely on a candidate’s skills and qualifications.