Creating a professional resume involves showcasing your skills, experiences, and qualifications accurately. Sometimes, you may have ongoing projects, certifications, or educational programs that are not yet completed. To effectively convey this on your resume, it is important to clearly represent those activities that are still in progress. In this guide, we will provide you with tips, examples, and formal as well as informal ways to indicate “in progress” on your resume.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Indicate “In Progress”
A formal resume demands clarity and precision, focusing on your accomplishments and qualifications. Here are some effective ways to indicate ongoing activities:
1.1 Using “In Progress” or “Ongoing”
One straightforward and clear method is to simply mention that a project or qualification is currently “in progress” or “ongoing.” You can include this detail in the description of relevant experiences or courses on your resume.
Example: Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (In Progress)
1.2 Displaying Expected Completion Date
If you have a specified estimated completion date for an ongoing activity, mentioning it on your resume can provide additional context to the reader. This demonstrates your dedication and commitment to completing the task.
Example: Expected Completion: June 2022
1.3 Utilizing “Present”
When describing your current employment, typically in the “Work Experience” section, it is common to use the word “Present” after the start date if you are still actively working in that role.
Example: Marketing Manager, Company XYZ (January 2018 – Present)
1.4 Prioritizing Recent Experiences
By listing your experiences in reverse chronological order, with the most recent first, employers will understand that the earlier experiences should be considered as completed. This approach can help emphasize your current activities and present your resume in a logical sequence.
2. Informal Ways to Indicate “In Progress”
Depending on the industry or context, using informal language can sometimes be appropriate. Here are a few examples:
2.1 Simple Mention without Indicators
An informal way to indicate an ongoing project or activity is by simply mentioning it without any specific indicators or formatting changes. This method is more commonly used in creative fields and can reflect your enthusiasm for the ongoing endeavor.
Example: Researching innovative marketing strategies to boost company sales
2.2 Emphasizing “Currently”
Adding the word “Currently” before describing an ongoing activity can subtly convey that it is still in progress without explicitly stating it.
Example: Currently studying advanced data analytics
2.3 Highlighting Ongoing Certifications
In specific industries, mentioning ongoing certifications in a more informal manner can showcase your commitment to professional development and continuous learning.
Example: Actively pursuing industry certifications in digital marketing
Conclusion
Effectively indicating “in progress” on your resume is vital for providing an accurate representation of your current activities and ongoing accomplishments. By utilizing formal or informal methods, you can ensure that employers understand the status of your projects, education, or certifications. Remember to adjust your approach based on the industry and context in which you are applying.
Always tailor your resume to the specific job requirements and use clear language to communicate your ongoing endeavors. Whether you choose a formal or informal approach, be consistent throughout your resume and maintain a warm and enthusiastic tone to captivate the reader.
