The inverted pyramid is a method of writing that involves front-loading a story, so the reader gets the most critical information first.
In journalism, the inverted pyramid structure came into play because of the telegraph. When news outlets would telegraph information over the wires, using the inverted pyramid allowed reporters to communicate the most vital information first, so even if the connection was lost, enough facts were received to print the story. This structure also benefits editors, allowing them to cut an article from the bottom, knowing nothing essential would be lost.
Today's audience experiences massive media overload, so writers must find ways to grab the reader and get their message across quickly. For example, on websites, important information is placed "above the fold," a phrase that originated in the early days of publishing and referred to content that appeared on the top half of the front page of a newspaper. Today, it means content that is viewable on the screen before the reader scrolls.
With these factors in mind, let's consider how to apply them to your resume.
1. The best place to start is with an attention-grabbing headline that makes the reader want to know more. I've read too many resumes that are the same from beginning to end. Nothing feels important; nothing stands out, and nothing makes me want to keep reading. And if I do stop reading partway down the first page, I don't know enough to drive further action.
2. Next is a summary with carefully chosen keywords. Make EVERY word count. Your summary is like your pledge, your promise, your value to your potential employer based on what you’ve delivered in the past.
3. The order of the sections that follow are based on variables—your field/position, whether you’re a new grad, whether you’re making a career transition, etc. Put the strongest, most relevant information first.
---Examples: If you’re more than a few of years out of school, your education goes at the end; If you’re in tech, you may have a tech skills list ahead of the experience section.