What is the main purpose of a resume?

The primary purpose of a resume is to summarize a person's qualifications. A resume is a concise document that provides an overview of an individual's education, work experience, skills, and accomplishments, helping potential employers assess whether the applicant is suitable for a specific job. It acts as a marketing tool, highlighting the strengths and experiences that make a candidate stand out to recruiters and hiring managers.

While documenting career ladder progress, showcasing a portfolio, and addressing discrimination might be relevant to the broader context of employment and hiring processes, they do not capture the fundamental function of a resume, which is to present a summary of qualifications in an effective and appealing manner. This summary enables employers to quickly evaluate candidates and decide who to invite for an interview.