how to write business owner on resume

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9 Business Owner Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Business Owner

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Business Owner Resume

• Business Owner Resumes by Type
• Business Owner Resumes by Industry

Operating your own business is a rewarding experience; you’re passionate about your product or service, and your unique business brings joy to many customers.

If you’re considering traditional employment or stepping into a new venture, it’s probably time to access a quick resume builder . However,  writing your resume  is more complicated than it looks when it comes to summarizing your activities and responsibilities.

Fortunately, we’ve done all the hard work for you!

We’ve researched numerous business owners’ resumes to determine what worked to get an interview in 2024 . We’ve distilled our research into nine free business owner resume samples to inspire your business owner resume. Check out our tips to perfect your resume and land you an interview for the job of your dreams!

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Why this resume works

• We’d recommend adding an objective if you’re undergoing a career change or if you have minimal experience with the job you’re seeking.
• Use an objective to describe why your unique background prepares you for the job you’re seeking, and why you’re transitioning to a new job.
• Don’t try! An  online cover letter generator  can save you precious space on your resume (not to mention time!), giving you room to share the how and why of your business-savvy decisions.

Small Self-Employed Business Owner Resume

• For your small self-employed business owner resume, include achievements like expanding your brand’s store locations or growing its online presence to show employers that you’re a one-man army who knows how to take a company to the moon!

Former Business Owner Resume

• You can also be a bit creative and focus on your specialty like Jordan. Check out how he displays his expertise in digital marketing by only writing about his contribution to improving his brand’s online presence.

Self-Employed Business Owner Resume

• For event planners, personal parties you’ve organized can fit nicely on your self-employed business owner resume.

Small Business Owner Resume

• You can provide metrics regarding revenue, the number of store locations you opened, the amount of positive performance reviews, customer and employee satisfaction scores, or the amount of awards you won. If you can find numbers for something, include it!
• Start by including relevant skill keywords in your  resume’s skill section . Check your list against the job description so your resume matches their expectations.

Online Business Owner Resume

• We’d recommend putting your online business owner resume in reverse-chronological order, meaning your most recent work experience is listed first.
• Employers will pay the most attention to the top third of your resume, so make sure they see your (likely) most impressive experience first.
• For each job, list three to six bullet points with relevant content. Start each bullet point with an action verb and minimize personal pronouns to keep your resume concise.

Cleaning Business Owner Resume

• This cleaning business owner resume focuses on the duties that come with owning an enterprise, while drawing less attention to the ancillary cleaning position.

Restaurant Business Owner Resume

• If that’s the case, use a  Word resume template  or a  Google Doc resume template  to format your resume correctly, but always download it after you’re done. Sometimes your resume formatting doesn’t translate properly, so do one last check to make sure it looks polished and professional.
• As a business owner with years of experience, your best bet is to place your skills and work experience sections higher on your resume but underneath your contact header. 

Construction Business Owner Resume

• Highlight your marketing capabilities, customer service skills, fiscal responsibility, and management abilities regarding your construction company.
• Pay special attention to your grammar, word choice, and active voice. The goal is to sound professional and competent!

Related resume guides

• Business Development
• Account Manager

Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

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• Other Resumes

5 Business Owner Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

It may seem weird at first for people to think about a business owner having a resume. why would you make one if you already own a business however, there are multiple reasons you may want to consider crafting your business owner resume. whether you are aspiring for a new career opportunity or are required to submit your resume for a bank investment request, it is a good idea to create your business owner resume. today, we’ll teach you how..

Even though it doesn’t seem logical at first, having a business owner resume is an excellent idea. Whether you want to invest in your business or you want to get an attractive job opportunity, having an up-to-date resume can help you. 

Some banks may require you to have an up-to-date resume upon investment approval. You may also want to have a resume to showcase your competencies, qualifications, and experience in your industry. There are numerous reasons to consider having a business owner resume. 

A business owner manages financial and executive operations to drive profit for their organization. That’s why it is essential to highlight your administrative skills and demonstrate your business acumen in your resume. 

You should also consider adding any training or formal education you’ve had relevant to your industry field. Some business owners have a college degree in business, business administration, or finance. However, you can also have majors or non-traditional training in any other field. It is not a mandatory requirement to become a business owner. 

If you want to explore more insightful advice to develop your business owner resume, check below. We’ve included four resume templates and relevant tips for each occupation.

Business Owner Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Business Owner
• Small Business Owner
• Ecommerce Business Owner
• Self employed Business Owner

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Business Owner Resumes

Business Owner Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Other Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 5: Business Owner Resume Example

A business owner has legal ownership of a business but isn’t always involved in the management process. It’ll depend on the complexity of the organization. Some business owners delegate executive tasks to managers, but they always make the final decisions. Other business owners are more involved in the management and executive operations. One of their main responsibilities is to provide a vision and make strategic decisions, that’s why you should highlight your strategic planning skills on your resume.

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Tips to help you write your Business Owner resume in 2024

   highlight the core skills you developed as a business owner..

It is a good idea to use your resume to showcase your value in the business. You can talk about your core skills, such as strategic planning, negotiation, administration, and management. Even though business owners are not often involved in day-to-day operations they are still responsible for high-level decision-making, so this is another skill you might want to include in your resume.

   Include any relevant certifications.

There’s no such thing as a business owner certification. However, there are relevant certificates that validate your business acumen and other related skills. Some interesting certifications you can add to your business owner resume are the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

Skills you can include on your Business Owner resume

Template 2 of 5: small business owner resume example.

A small business owner creates a company that solves a specific need in a local community. Their responsibility is to direct, administer, and manage their business to meet their financial and operational goals. They should have an excellent eye to spot opportunities and risks. Therefore, you can include risk management skills on your resume.

Tips to help you write your Small Business Owner resume in 2024

   demonstrate deep knowledge of your industry..

It is important to demonstrate your expertise in your field in your resume. This will help investors and banks know that you have business acumen and understand how to overcome issues in your industry.

   Indicate your inventory management skills.

Inventory management is an essential skill to have in the retail industry. Having an optimized inventory increases efficiency in your operations and customer satisfaction. This way there are no issues related to missing items, and your business can provide a better service.

Skills you can include on your Small Business Owner resume

Template 3 of 5: ecommerce business owner resume example.

An eCommerce business owner manages online retail operations to distribute or sell products. The eCommerce business owner monitors operations and creates policies and standards for their team. They also analyze metrics, forecast trends, and develop strategies based on those insights. Therefore, it’s essential to demonstrate your data analytic skills on your resume.

Tips to help you write your Ecommerce Business Owner resume in 2024

   indicate your marketing skills..

eCommerce requires a lot of effort in marketing strategies. You should position your business on search engines using SEO techniques, get more visibility through social media, or use paid ads to generate more traffic. Of course, you can also outsource marketing services, but as an eCommerce business owner, you should have some basic knowledge of marketing fundamentals.

   Mention your ability to work with a remote team.

These days more companies have joined the remote arena, and eCommerce is not an exception to this. Managing a remote team requires different techniques to monitor and keep up with everyone’s progress. You need to use project management software like Jira or ClickUp, and communication channels like Slack that help you orchestrate the entire team.

Skills you can include on your Ecommerce Business Owner resume

Template 4 of 5: self employed business owner resume example.

As a self-employed business owner, you're wearing a myriad of hats, encompassing roles from marketing, customer service, operations, to finance among others. The unique aspect about writing a resume for such a role is that you're not just outlining job duties, but diverse entrepreneurial skills and achievements. There's a shift in the trend of businesses now, with many adopting lean methodologies and embracing generalists who can multitask. This necessitates a resume that effectively communicates your adaptability and versatility. Remember, your resume is the story of your business' journey. It'll be distinct from traditional job-based resumes. You're demonstrating a mastery of several sectors, understanding of business operations, and the ability to guide a business to success. This isn't about just stating what you did, but quantifying the impacts made, the revenues earned, and growth achieved.

Tips to help you write your Self employed Business Owner resume in 2024

   highlight specific success metrics.

As a business owner, tangible, specific metrics tell a powerful story. Did you increase sales by a particular percentage? How many customers do you serve? By presenting solid, quantifiable data and achievements, you underline your ability to deliver results.

   Showcase your versatility

In managing a business, you've likely assumed several roles. List those roles and responsibilities, but also how you successfully managed them. It emphasizes your adaptability and ability to handle diverse aspects of business management.

Skills you can include on your Self employed Business Owner resume

Template 5 of 5: self employed business owner resume example.

Every business owner is self-employed, but not every self-employed individual is a business owner. The difference relies on whether you have other people working for you. For example, a freelancer would be self-employed, just like an agency owner, but this last one also operates a business and guides a team. Leadership skills are essential in entrepreneurship. That’s why you should emphasize your ability to motivate others in your resume.

   Use an ATS-friendly resume title.

You should choose your job title wisely when writing your resume. These days most companies use ATS filters to scan resumes, and not having an optimized job title might affect your performance. Try to incorporate keywords that are relevant to your industry and entrepreneurship.

   Mention your project management skills.

Project management is an essential skill to have in entrepreneurship. You will need to create strategic plans, estimate costs, and resources, delegate tasks, and monitor operations. Hence, it’s a good idea to highlight this skill on your self-employed business owner resume.

As a hiring manager who has recruited for companies like Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft, I've seen countless resumes from business owners. The most effective resumes are those that showcase the candidate's entrepreneurial spirit, leadership skills, and ability to drive results. In this article, we'll share some tips to help you craft a compelling resume that will catch the attention of potential employers.

   Highlight your entrepreneurial achievements

As a business owner, you've likely achieved significant milestones that demonstrate your entrepreneurial skills. Make sure to highlight these achievements on your resume, using specific examples and metrics to quantify your success. For example:

• Founded and led a successful e-commerce business, growing revenue from $0 to $500,000 in just two years
• Developed and launched a new product line that captured 25% market share within the first year
• Secured $1 million in seed funding from top-tier venture capital firms

By showcasing your achievements, you'll demonstrate to potential employers that you have the drive and skills to succeed in a new role.

   Emphasize your leadership experience

As a business owner, you've likely had extensive experience leading teams and managing projects. Make sure to highlight this experience on your resume, using specific examples to illustrate your leadership skills. For example:

• Led a team of 15 employees to successfully launch a new product line on time and under budget
• Managed relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, customers, and partners
• Developed and implemented a new performance management system that increased employee engagement by 20%

By emphasizing your leadership experience, you'll show potential employers that you have the skills to lead and inspire teams in a new role.

   Showcase your problem-solving skills

As a business owner, you've likely faced many challenges and obstacles along the way. Use your resume to showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to overcome adversity. For example:

• Navigated the company through a difficult period of market volatility, implementing cost-cutting measures that saved the business $250,000
• Developed and executed a turnaround plan that increased revenue by 50% within six months
• Negotiated a key partnership deal that opened up new markets and increased sales by 30%

By highlighting your problem-solving skills, you'll demonstrate to potential employers that you have the resilience and adaptability to succeed in a new role.

   Tailor your resume to the job description

When applying for a new role, it's important to tailor your resume to the specific job description. Look for keywords and phrases in the job posting that align with your skills and experience, and make sure to incorporate them into your resume. For example, if the job description emphasizes:

• Experience managing cross-functional teams
• Ability to develop and execute strategic plans
• Strong financial acumen

Make sure to highlight these skills and experiences in your resume. This will show the employer that you have the specific qualifications they are looking for.

   Use a clear and concise format

When crafting your resume, it's important to use a clear and concise format that is easy to read and navigate. Use bullet points and short paragraphs to break up the text and make it more skimmable. Avoid using too many different fonts or colors, as this can be distracting and unprofessional. Instead, stick to a simple and clean format that highlights your key skills and experiences.

Here's an example of a well-formatted resume summary for a business owner:

Entrepreneurial leader with 10+ years of experience founding and growing successful businesses. Proven track record of driving revenue growth, securing funding, and building high-performing teams. Skilled in strategic planning, financial management, and market analysis. Seeking new opportunities to leverage my skills and experience to drive business success.

   Quantify your achievements with metrics

To make your resume more impactful, use specific metrics and data to quantify your achievements. This will help potential employers understand the scope and impact of your work. For example, instead of saying:

• Increased sales and revenue
• Improved customer satisfaction
• Reduced costs and expenses

Try using specific numbers and percentages, like:

• Increased sales by 50% year-over-year, resulting in $2 million in additional revenue
• Improved customer satisfaction scores by 25% through implementation of new support processes
• Reduced operating costs by 15% through strategic sourcing and process optimization

By using metrics to quantify your achievements, you'll provide concrete evidence of your skills and experience, making your resume more compelling to potential employers.

Writing Your Business Owner Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. put your full name on the first line.

Start your header with your full name on its own line. Use a larger font size than the rest of your resume to make it stand out.

Avoid nicknames or abbreviations, unless they are essential to your professional identity. For example:

Instead, use your full first and last name:

• Jonathan Smith

2. Include your most impressive job title

As a business owner, you likely wear many hats. Choose the job title that best represents your role and will be most impressive to potential employers.

Avoid vague or informal titles like:

• Jack of All Trades

Instead, use a professional title that accurately reflects your responsibilities:

• Founder and CEO
• Managing Partner

If you have multiple titles, choose the most senior one or the one most relevant to the job you're applying for.

3. Provide essential contact details

Include your phone number and a professional email address so hiring managers can easily get in touch with you. You may also include your LinkedIn profile URL if it's up to date and relevant to your job search.

Avoid outdated or unprofessional contact details:

• A personal email address from your college days, like [email protected]
• Your full mailing address

Instead, provide:

• A professional email with your name, like [email protected]
• The city and state of your current location, especially if you're applying for jobs in that area

[email protected] | 555-123-4567 | New York, NY | linkedin.com/in/johnsmith

  Summary

A resume summary for a business owner is optional, but it can be a great way to provide additional context about your experience and highlight your most impressive accomplishments. If you have a long career history or are making a career change, a summary can help explain your background and tie together seemingly disparate experiences.

However, avoid using an objective statement, as they are outdated and focus on what you want rather than what you can offer an employer. Instead, use your summary to showcase your unique value proposition and make a strong case for why you're the best candidate for the job.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Business Owner resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Business Owner Resume Summary Examples , or Business Owner Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your entrepreneurial skills and experience

As a business owner, you likely have a diverse set of skills and experiences that make you an attractive candidate for many roles. Use your summary to showcase the most relevant and impressive aspects of your background, such as:

• Successfully launched and grew a profitable business from the ground up
• Managed all aspects of operations, from sales and marketing to finance and HR
• Built and led high-performing teams to achieve ambitious goals

Avoid simply listing generic skills or buzzwords like "results-oriented" or "proven track record." Instead, provide specific examples and metrics that demonstrate the impact you've had as a business owner.

Entrepreneurial executive with 10+ years of experience launching and scaling successful ventures. Built an e-commerce business from $0 to $5M in annual revenue within 3 years. Managed a team of 25 and consistently exceeded sales targets by 20%+. Seeking to bring my leadership, strategy, and business acumen to a high-growth startup.

2. Tailor your summary to the job you're targeting

While it's important to highlight your overall strengths and accomplishments as a business owner, you should also tailor your summary to the specific role and company you're interested in. Research the job description and company to identify the skills and experiences they value most.

For example, if you're applying for a sales leadership role, you might emphasize:

• Developing and executing successful sales strategies that drove revenue growth
• Building and managing high-performing sales teams
• Establishing partnerships and relationships with key clients

On the other hand, a generic summary that doesn't speak to the needs of the role or company is less likely to capture a hiring manager's attention:

• Experienced business owner with a diverse background in multiple industries
• Strong skills in communication, leadership, and problem-solving
• Proven track record of success in various roles and companies

  Experience

The work experience section is the most important part of your resume as a business owner. It's where you highlight your career history, key accomplishments, and the skills that make you a strong candidate. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling work experience section that will catch the eye of recruiters and hiring managers.

1. Focus on your business achievements

As a business owner, your work experience section should focus on the achievements and milestones of your business. Highlight the growth and success of your company, and the impact you've made in your industry.

Here are some examples of achievements to include:

• Increased annual revenue from $500K to $2M within 3 years
• Expanded client base from 10 to 50 clients, including major brands like [Company Name]
• Launched new product line that generated $500K in sales in the first year

Quantify your achievements with metrics whenever possible. Numbers help to provide context and make your accomplishments more tangible to recruiters.

2. Showcase your leadership and management skills

As a business owner, you likely wear many hats and have a diverse set of responsibilities. Use your work experience section to showcase your leadership and management skills.

Here are some examples:

• Managed a team of 15 employees across multiple departments
• Developed and implemented new processes that increased operational efficiency by 25%
• Led successful merger with [Company Name], integrating teams and systems

Avoid simply listing your day-to-day responsibilities. Instead, focus on how you've driven results and made an impact as a leader.

Weak example: Responsible for managing team and overseeing daily operations

Strong example: Led cross-functional team of 15 to successfully launch new product line, generating $1M in revenue in the first year

3. Tailor your experience to your target role

If you're a business owner looking to transition into a new role or industry, it's important to tailor your work experience section to your target job. Think about the skills and experiences that are most relevant and transferable.

For example, if you're targeting a sales leadership role, focus on:

• Your experience driving revenue growth and hitting sales targets
• Developing successful sales strategies and go-to-market plans

If you have experience that isn't directly related to your target role, consider how you can frame it in a relevant way. For instance, if you've managed a team in a different function, highlight your general leadership and people management skills.

  Education

As a business owner, your resume should highlight your education and how it has equipped you with the skills and knowledge to run a successful business. In this section, we'll guide you through the key steps to effectively showcase your educational background on your resume.

1. List your highest degree first

Start with your most recent or highest degree, such as an MBA or a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field like Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, or Finance. Include the name of the institution, the degree earned, and the year of graduation.

Master of Business Administration (MBA) Harvard Business School, Boston, MA Graduated: 2015

If you have multiple degrees, list them in reverse chronological order, with the most recent one first.

2. Highlight relevant coursework

If you're a recent graduate or your coursework is particularly relevant to your business, consider including a list of relevant courses under your degree. This can demonstrate your expertise in specific areas.

• Advanced Financial Management
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• Strategic Marketing

However, avoid listing basic or introductory courses that may not add value to your resume.

3. Include professional certifications

If you have earned any professional certifications relevant to your business, include them in the Education section or create a separate 'Certifications' section. These can showcase your expertise and commitment to ongoing learning.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, 2018

Be selective and only include certifications that are widely recognized and respected in your industry.

4. Keep it concise for senior-level positions

If you're a seasoned business owner with extensive experience, your Education section should be brief and to the point. Focus on your highest degree and any notable certifications.

• Bachelor of Science in Marketing, XYZ University, Graduated: 1985
• Relevant coursework: Intro to Marketing, Business Communications, Consumer Behavior

Instead, keep it concise and consider omitting the graduation year to prevent potential age discrimination:

• Bachelor of Science in Marketing, XYZ University

Action Verbs For Business Owner Resumes

As a business owner, you want to demonstrate you have excellent communication skills on your resume. Hence, it’s essential to use the appropriate words to indicate your precision and expertise. Action verbs can help you describe your work experience and achievements by using fewer words than usual. 

This will help you improve your resume’s readability and it’ll be easier for people to scan it. This means that you’ll be more noticeable and improve your chances of being contacted by your bank or potential employer. These are some of the action verbs you can use in your business owner resume. 

• Administered
• Co-ordinated
• Prioritized

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Business Owner Resumes

Skills for business owner resumes.

One of the reasons to create your business owner resume is because you can showcase your skills. That’s why you should use the skills section to demonstrate your value. Business owners generally have skills like entrepreneurship, strategic planning, inventory management, and basic to advanced marketing knowledge. 

Additional skills include recruiting, general management, and leadership. If you’d like to see more skills you can use in your business owner resume, check out our selection. We’ve included only relevant skills that illustrate your value.

• Merchandising
• Sales Management
• Store Management
• Marketing Strategy
• Inventory Management
• Social Media Marketing
• Entrepreneurship
• Retail Sales
• Social Media
• Small Business
• Advertising
• Customer Service
• Visual Merchandising
• Adobe Photoshop

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Business Owner Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Business Owner Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Business Owner job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

Other other resumes, data analyst.

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• Business Owner Resume Example
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• All Resume Examples
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• • Increased annual revenue by 40% through the development and execution of targeted marketing strategies and the expansion of product lines, resulting in significant growth.
• • Negotiated and secured contracts with key suppliers, reducing supply costs by 15% and improving product margins by 10%.
• • Implemented inventory management systems that reduced stockouts by 25% and increased inventory turnover by 18%, improving overall customer satisfaction.
• • Directed daily operations including staff management, financial oversight, and vendor relations, leading to a 20% improvement in operational efficiency.
• • Conducted buying trips to source new products, which contributed to a 30% increase in product variety and a 25% boost in customer retention.
• • Developed and maintained relationships with service vendors, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality products, resulting in a 15% reduction in supply chain disruptions.
• • Led a team of 50+ employees in the daily operation of a high-volume retail store, achieving a 20% increase in productivity through process optimization.
• • Implemented a cost-saving initiative that reduced operational expenses by 12% while maintaining high levels of customer service and product quality.
• • Managed vendor relations and coordinated deliveries, resulting in a 10% improvement in on-time delivery rates and a 15% reduction in stock discrepancies.
• • Overhauled the inventory management system, which led to a 25% decrease in waste and a 20% increase in inventory accuracy.
• • Collaborated with senior management to develop long-term strategies that contributed to a 30% increase in store profitability over four years.
• • Coordinated the procurement of merchandise from over 30 suppliers, ensuring on-time delivery and maintaining a 95% in-stock rate across all product categories.
• • Analyzed sales trends and adjusted purchasing strategies accordingly, resulting in a 20% increase in sales during peak seasons.
• • Worked closely with the sales and marketing teams to align product offerings with market demand, contributing to a 15% increase in customer satisfaction.
• • Developed and maintained strong relationships with key suppliers, which led to improved negotiation terms and a 10% reduction in purchasing costs.

7 Business Owner Resume Examples & Guide for 2025

A business owner oversees the overall operations, financial health, and strategic direction of the company. When crafting your resume, focus on highlighting your experience with team leadership, budget management, and customer relations. Incorporating skills such as strategic planning, financial analysis, and effective communication can enhance your profile. Additionally, mentioning your track record of increasing revenue and successfully launching products will demonstrate your contribution to the business's success.

All resume examples in this guide

Self Employed Business Owner

Small Business Owner

Online Business Owner

Cleaning Business Owner

Restaurant Business Owner

Construction Business Owner

Written by Gabriela Manova

Resume Guide

Business owner resume sample

Format a business owner resume

Business owner resume experience

Business owner skills

Education and certifications

Business owner resume summary

Additional sections

In conclusion

As a business owner, you've mastered the art of juggling tasks with the skill of a circus performer. But even the most adept performers might seek a steadier stage after mastering the high-wire act of entrepreneurship. With about 23% of small businesses folding  in their first year, the allure of a predictable workweek, steady income, and wearing fewer hats—unless they're part of the dress code—is understandably appealing.

The retirement of baby boomers is creating opportunities in small to mid-sized businesses, ideal for seasoned professionals and new entrepreneurs. In fields like tech and finance, highlighting your entrepreneurial experience in your resume can set you apart. This guide offers tips to seamlessly connect your past achievements with future goals, ensuring your skills shine in any setting.

Key takeaways

• Choose a hybrid resume format to reflect your transition from owning a business to regular employment, or vice-versa.
• Opt for designs that enhance readability, such as a two-column format.
• Choose subtle colors and easy-to-read fonts for optimal comprehensibility.
• Tailor your experience section to the specific job posting. Think of how your experience corresponds to it.
• Put industry-specific skills in a separate section, and intersperse your soft skills throughout your experience and summary entries.
• Your education and certifications can give extra credibility to your application.

Let's explore an actual resume sample.

Business Owner Resume Sample

Use Hazel’s resume as a template for your own. It can serve as both transitioning from a business owner role to regular employment or the other way around. Or, use the Enhancv builder  to create one from scratch. We promise it only takes minutes!

Hazel Clark business owner [email protected] | @LinkedIn | Charlotte, North Carolina

Summary Dynamic business owner with over 10 years of experience in managing operations, fostering business growth, and ensuring product excellence in competitive markets. Proven track record of successful vendor negotiations, strategic purchasing, and operational oversight. Committed to driving business stability and innovation while maintaining strong supplier relationships to enhance product delivery and inventory management.

Experience business owner Clark's Home Goods, Charlotte, NC June 2013 – Present

• Lead a retail operation with annual revenue growth of 15%, expanding market presence through strategic vendor partnerships and quality product offerings.
• Spearheaded the implementation of an inventory management system that decreased operational costs by 20% while improving stock turnover rates.
• Organized and conducted over 30 buying trips annually to procure diverse and high-quality inventory that drove a 25% increase in customer satisfaction.

Operations Manager GreenLeaf Designs, Charlotte, NC March 2008 - May 2013

• Managed daily operations, including oversight of 25 staff and two retail locations, resulting in a 30% increase in efficiency through process improvements.
• Negotiated with over 50 service vendors and product suppliers, securing advantageous terms that enhanced profitability and supply chain reliability.

Education Bachelor of Science in Business Administration University of North Carolina at Charlotte Graduated: 2007

Certifications

• Certified Business Manager (CBM)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Inventory Management
• Vendor Negotiations
• Strategic Planning
• Financial Oversight
• Market Analysis
• Supply Chain Management
• English (Native)
• Spanish (Conversational)

Having seen a resume example, let’s break down the formatting that’ll get you the best results.

How to Format a Business Owner Resume

The right format for someone on the career change path is the hybrid resume . Giving equal weight to your skills and experience, this format shows the transferable abilities that will be relevant to your new position.

Top sections on a resume

Your first logical step is establishing which resume sections you’ll include. Here are our suggestions:

• Professional summary
• Skills and qualifications
• Professional experience
• Education, certifications, or licenses
• Additional sections that tell more about your personal story

We’ve addressed each one below.

Resume designs

• Concise is best , so in most cases, the one-page resume is enough to tell your work story. However, if you have over 10 years of experience, you can opt for two pages .
• Keep a professional outlook by placing a 1” margin on each side .
• A two-column design will provide enough space for your endeavors and is an HR favorite.
• Maintain your business outlook by adding subtle colors like dark green, blue, or gray. Pair this with an easy-to-read font, like Rubik.
• Resume lines are an elegant way to separate different sections.

Keep in mind the market you’re applying to – a Canadian resume, for instance, might have a unique layout .

Choose a resume template —from classic to creative—that corresponds to your business and the role you’re aiming to transition to.

Contact information

• Put the essential contact information , such as name, job title, and email, on your resume header .
• A photo can cause unnecessary bias , so generally go without. Still, check with your specific job posting requirements.

Contrary to popular belief, our tests showed that fonts, colors, columns, and resume length don’t affect Applicant Tracking Systems  parsing. Focus on matching job description language and formatting details like dates and bullet symbols as those may affect your application.

File formatting

• A PDF secures all elements  of your resume layout  in place.
• Use a clear naming convention , like FirstName_LastName_JobTitle_Resume.

Got a resume? Try the Enhancv resume checker  to see its score!

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

After choosing your resume format, the next step is detailing your professional experience to showcase your career progression.

How to Write Your Business Owner Resume Experience

Your experience section  will be different depending on whether you’re applying to take on someone else’s business, or you’re returning to the workforce after developing your own. You can leverage your abilities regardless of the field you’re applying in. Here are some general tips you can follow:

• Outline any previous professional roles, including your accomplishments and how these experiences prepared you for business ownership.
• Describe the vision and core focus of your own business, detailing how you've developed and executed its unique value proposition.
• Present measurable successes and significant achievements from your business that demonstrate your capability to drive results.
• Mention any experiences where you've effectively taken on leadership roles in businesses without successors, emphasizing your adaptability and strategic foresight.
• Highlight technical skills relevant to business management, such as proficiency with financial software, CRM systems, or other specialized tools.
• Provide examples of your soft skills, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving, illustrating how these have been essential in managing your business and will be valuable in new roles.

A business owner job description can be a position in management , business development , or business consulting . Take a look at this real job posting:

Small business consultant

Position overview

We are seeking a knowledgeable and experienced Small Business Consultant to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of small business operations, financial management, marketing strategies, and overall business planning. As a Small Business Consultant, you will work closely with clients to identify their business needs, develop strategic plans, and implement solutions that drive success.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough assessments of clients’ business operations, including financial statements, marketing strategies, and operational processes.
• Identify key challenges and opportunities for growth within client businesses.
• Develop and present detailed business plans, strategies, and recommendations to clients.
• Assist clients in implementing business strategies and monitor progress to ensure successful execution.
• Provide expert advice on financial management, including budgeting, cash flow management, and funding options.
• Advise on marketing and sales strategies to help clients increase their market presence and customer base.
• Offer guidance on improving operational efficiency and productivity.
• Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and best practices to provide relevant and timely advice.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their unique needs and goals.
• Conduct workshops, seminars, and training sessions for clients on various business topics.
• Prepare and deliver regular reports on project progress and outcomes.
• Occasional overnight regional travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, or a related field (MBA preferred)
• 5+ years of experience as a small business owner, business consultant, or similar advisory role
• 5+ years of hands-on experience managing and optimizing financial operations using QuickBooks, including proficiency in financial reporting. Consistently improved workflow efficiency and accuracy through customized QuickBooks solutions tailored to business needs
• Strong understanding of small business operations and challenges
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Proficiency in financial analysis and planning
• Solid understanding of marketing principles and strategies
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build and maintain positive client relationships
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple clients and projects simultaneously
• High level of integrity and professionalism
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and business consulting software

Create a targeted resume

Let’s face it—even if you’re Jeff Bezos, you were once a beginner. So, you have some knowledge of what it means to be a small business owner—even if the business was establishing yourself as a professional. Apply your know-how by targeting the specific job posting with your resume. Try to find parallels that will make recruiters see you as a great fit.

A winning strategy in a targeted resume  is using keywords from the job posting , and action verbs  to make a strong impression.

Here’s an experience section tailored to the job ad above:

• • Spearheaded comprehensive business assessments leading to a 30% increase in operational efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing strategic technological integrations.
• • Developed and executed tailored business strategies that increased client revenue by an average of 25% within the first year of consultation.
• • Facilitated financial management improvements, including budget adjustments and cash flow optimizations, enhancing clients' financial health by 40% on average.
• • Conducted workshops on financial literacy and business strategy, achieving a 95% satisfaction rate from participant feedback.
• • Guided 15+ small businesses in adopting digital marketing strategies, resulting in an average 50% growth in online customer engagement.
• • Managed multiple client projects simultaneously with a focus on timely and under-budget delivery, maintaining a client retention rate of over 85%.

It’s effective because:

• Highlights leading comprehensive assessments and strategic improvements, meeting the job's need for thorough client operation evaluations.
• Describes developing and executing strategies that boost client revenue, showcasing strategic planning skills essential for the role.
• Notes management of multiple projects and high client retention rates, demonstrating key project management abilities and client relationship skills.

To make your experience stand out, learn how to quantify your achievements and impact in this next section.

Business Owner Skills on Your Resume

As a future or ex-business owner, your ability to manage client relationships and adapt to new challenges is vital. The skills section  of your resume should highlight your industry-specific skills , like different software. Tailor this section according to the job ad you’re interested in. Make sure you don’t exaggerate, as these capabilities can be easily measured and tested. Here’s what you can add:

Best hard skills for your business owner resume

• Financial Analysis
• Project Management
• Risk Management
• Sales Forecasting
• Performance Metrics Analysis
• Data Analysis
• Marketing Automation Software
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
• Business Intelligence Software
• Social Media Advertising
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Google Analytics
• E-commerce Platforms
• Point of Sale (POS) Systems

We mentioned soft skills  are best illustrated with examples throughout your experience and summary sections. These skills are what drive most of your success as both an employer and an employee. So, think about which ones best present your character.

Best soft skills for your business owner resume

• Decision Making
• Time Management
• Critical Thinking
• Conflict Resolution
• Problem-Solving
• Emotional Intelligence
• Adaptability
• Negotiation
• Stress Management
• Multitasking
• Strategic Visioning

Now that we've covered skills, we'll transition to discussing your educational background and any certifications you've acquired.

How to List Your Certifications and Education on Your Resume

Your education section  is still relevant even if you have lots and lots of experience. It shows recruiters you’re dedicated and organized and provides theoretical knowledge you build your experience on.

When detailing this section for a business owner transitioning to another role:

• Include your educational institution to underscore credibility and convey professionalism.
• State the year you completed your degree to offer context regarding the timing of your education. Omit the month for simplicity.
• Underline relevant coursework  or certifications pertinent to the new role, emphasizing skills and knowledge that align with your career shift.
• Feature any academic or professional honors such as leadership awards, business competitions won, or scholarships that demonstrate your competence and dedication.

Here’s an education entry tailored to the job  posting above:

Here’s what makes it work:

• Relevant degrees (MBA and Bachelor of Science in Finance) from prestigious institutions (Harvard Business School and The Wharton School).
• Quantitative display of academic excellence with GPAs clearly mentioned .
• Well-regarded academic institutions like Harvard Business School and The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania lend credibility and align with the high level of professionalism expected for the position.

Dedicating a section to certifications  on your resume provides a swift and effective way to demonstrate to potential employers your commitment to exceeding the foundational qualifications. Take your pick from our suggestions:

Best certifications for your business owner resume

• Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
• Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
• Six Sigma Certification

After detailing your education and certifications, we'll focus on crafting a compelling resume summary that captures your unique value.

How to Write Your Business Owner Resume Summary

When recruiters initially scan your resume, the career statement will capture their attention. As a transitioning small business owner, your resume summary  should effectively display your diverse skill set.

• Include 3 – 5 sentences  that summarize your top qualifications and unique qualities.
• Use active voice and strategic keywords  related to your new role.
• Highlight measurable achievements  from your business experience that demonstrate your impact.
• Mention any additional training or certifications  you’ve pursued that align with your new career path.
• Conclude by emphasizing how your extensive experience as a business owner can bring value to the prospective company.

Here’s a summary targeting the job ad above:

It effectively highlights the candidate's extensive experience and specialized skills, directly aligning with the job's requirements for a Small Business Consultant. It underscores their proven ability to optimize business operations, signaling a strong match with the strategic and operational demands of the role.

With your resume's core components in place, let’s consider adding additional sections that can further enhance your marketability.

Additional Sections for a Business Owner Resume

When transitioning to a new role, adding optional sections to your resume can spotlight unique skills and experiences that align with the job's requirements. Thus, you showcase your versatility and ability to expand beyond typical job duties.

Here are some effective optional sections to consider:

• Highlight specific projects  that are relevant to the new role, showing your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
• List memberships in professional organizations  to show your active engagement and network in the industry.
• Include volunteer positions  that have given you experience relevant to the new role, underscoring your commitment to community and transferable skills.
• Mention any language skills  you have that can help you work in multinational environments.

In Conclusion

Our guide helps business owners who are transitioning to the role of an employee, emphasizing the importance of tailoring their resumes to underline transferable skills and relevant experiences. It suggests focusing on achievements and clearly demonstrating leadership and problem-solving abilities.

Business Owner resume examples

Explore additional business owner resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

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