resume format for cma freshers

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Resume – Format

TIPS TO PREPARE RESUME FOR INTERVIEW

An attractively formatted resume catches the eye. Some simple rules to follow:

• Use left margin justification i.e. keep all text in the main body left-aligned.

• Use single line spacing between the lines.

• Use straight lines to break sections and also to give an outline to the resume, if you wish to.

• Simple bullet points under each category head give a neat format.

• For a hard copy print on plain white or cream paper.

• A CV should ideally be two pages in length, and a cover letter strictly one page.

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CMA resume example

Can you use your expertise and strategic thinking to make calculated financial decisions that will drive the company forward?

Then your skills as a CMA could be in high demand right now, provided you can effectively showcase your training and experience on your resume, of course.

But if you’re better with numbers than words, we can help. Check out our detailed guide below, complete with a certified management accountant (CMA) resume example.

Resume templates

CMA Resume Example

CMA (Certified Management Accountant) Resume 1

This example CMA (Certified Management Accountant) resume gives you a general idea of how to structure your own resume, along with the type of content you need to include.

Sticking with this resume format will help you to get noticed by employers and ensure that they can quickly see the benefit of hiring you.

Now, lets walk through a step-by-step guide on how to write your own winning resume.

CMA resume layout and format

The format and layout of your resume can make or break its success.

Sure, it’s great to pack your resume with lots of impressive skills and knowledge, but if the page is not structured clearly, hiring managers will struggle to find the important stuff!

Above all, your resume should be easy-to-read and professional looking.

Follow these formatting tips to get noticed.

Formatting your resume

Length: To ensure that your resume gets proper attention from recruiters, it is best to keep it at 2 pages or less. Recruiters are often inundated with hundreds of resumes to review on a daily basis, so they want to read each one quickly as possible.
Font & readability : To create a resume that is easily digestible for hiring managers, it’s essential to use an uncomplicated font and structure your content with bullet points and short paragraphs.
Layout & Structure: A well-designed resume is not just visually pleasing, but it must also be functional. To achieve a functional design, use bold headings and borders to separate the content into clear sections.
Photos: You are not obliged to add a photo to your resume in the USA, but it can be a nice way of adding some life to the document.

Quick tip: Achieving a professional look for your resume can be difficult and time-consuming. If you want to create an attractive resume quickly, try our quick-and-easy Resume Builder and use one of their eye-catching resume templates.

Resume layout

When writing your resume , you should always include the following sections:

Name and Contact Details – Place this information at the top of your resume to make it easy for employers to contact you.
Resume Summary – Write a brief introductory paragraph at the top of your resume summarizing why you are the best candidate for the job.
Skills Section – Create a concise list of your most important skills that can be quickly skimmed over by potential employers.
Work Experience – List your previous jobs in reverse chronological order, including volunteer work and college placements if you have no paid experience.
Education – List your educational qualifications and any professional training you have received.
Additional Information – This is an optional section for including details about hobbies, interests, or any other relevant information that may help distinguish you from other candidates.

Here’s what to include in each part of your resume.

Contact Details

Make it easy for hiring managers to contact you by adding your contact details to the top of your resume.

Keep this section small to save space and include the following.

Name and profession title
Telephone number – Ideally your cell phone so you can answer quickly.
Location – Add your general location such as LA or New York
Email address – Use a professional looking one with no nicknames.

You can add a link to your LinkedIn profile if you have one – you do not need to include personal details like date of birth or marital status.

CMA Resume Summary

Your resume summary is like your introduction to the recruiter or hiring manager – it should grab their attention and leave them eager to read more about you.

Achieve this by writing a snappy overview of your skills, knowledge and what value you can bring to an employer.

How to create a resume summary that will excite recruiters:

Keep it short: Aim for a short punchy paragraph of 4-7 lines. This is just enough info to showcase why you’d make the perfect hire, without going into excessive detail and overwhelming busy recruiters at such an early stage in the resume.
Tailor to target jobs: Ensure your profile makes an impact by matching it closely to the requirements of the job description, copying as many key terms as possible.
Avoid using cliches: Although you may believe that you’re a “ team player who always gives 110%, ” these kinds of cliches don’t communicate much about your skills and qualifications to potential employers. It’s more effective to stick to factual information in your resume.

CMA resume summary example

What to include in your cma resume summary.

Summary of your experience: Provide an overview of the type of work you have done in the past and the impact you have made at previous employers.
Relevant skills: Scatter your most in-demand CMA (Certified Management Accountant) skills through your summary to ensure they are noticed quickly by hiring managers.
Qualifications: If your job requires any qualifications such as a professional course or a college degree, mention it briefly in your summary.

Quick tip: Choose from hundreds of pre-written summaries across all industries, and add one to your resume with one-click in our quick-and-easy Resume Builder . All written by recruitment experts and easily tailored to suit your unique skillset and style.

Core skills section

Your core skills section, positioned just below your resume summary, provides recruiters with a quick glance at 4-10 of your most in-demand skills.

For CMA jobs, where hiring managers may receive hundreds of applications, this section can help you stand out and immediately grab their attention.

To be effective, this section should consist of 2-3 columns of bullet points that highlight attributes that are highly relevant to the jobs you are targeting.

Best skills for your CMA resume

Financial Analysis – Analzying financial statements, identifying trends, and making strategic recommendations based on the financial data.

Cost Accounting – Calculating and analyzing product costs, including direct materials, labor, and overhead, to support pricing decisions and cost control.

Budgeting and Forecasting – Developing budgets, forecasting financial performance, and monitoring actual results against planned targets.

Financial Planning and Analysis – Developing financial models, conducting financial planning, and performing variance analysis to support strategic decision-making.

Performance Measurement – Utilizing knowledge of key performance indicators (KPIs) to develop and implement metrics to evaluate and monitor organizational performance.

Risk Management – Utilizing knowledge of risk assessment techniques to develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential financial risks.

Internal Controls – Utilizing knowledge of internal control frameworks to design and implement effective internal control systems to safeguard assets and ensure compliance.

Strategic Management – Understanding business strategy, aligning financial goals with organizational objectives, and contributing to strategic planning processes.

Data Analysis and Reporting – Utilizing data analysis tools and software to extract insights, generate reports, and present information in a clear and concise manner.

Ethical Conduct – Adhering to professional and ethical standards in financial management, including confidentiality, integrity, and objectivity.

Quick tip: Our quick-and-easy Resume Builder contains thousands of in-demand skills for every profession that can be added to your resume in seconds – saving you time and greatly improving your chances of landing job interviews and getting hired.

Work experience

Once you’ve hooked the hiring manager with your summary, you can really blow them away with you work experience.

List your previous jobs from newest to oldest to show the impact you made at each organization.

If you have years of experience, you can leave out some of the older jobs , and if you have little/no experience, you can bulk this section up with voluntary work and college placements.

Structuring your jobs

Resume job descriptions contain lots of information, so its crucial to structure them well.

Use the structure below to ensure hiring managers can consume the information easily.

Job outline

Start with a 1-2 sentence outline of the role, summarizing what the goal of your position was, who you reported to (or managed) and the type of organization you worked for.

Key responsibilities

List your notable responsibilities in short sharp bullet points to demonstrate your input and how you contributed to the organization’s success.

Highlight the skills that are most important to the roles you are applying for.

Key achievements

Round off each job by adding some impressive achievements you made in the role.

Anything you’ve done that has made a big impact on your employer will make a good impression, think; generating revenue, saving costs, or improving a product.

Quantify your achievements with number where possible e.g. “reduced call wait time by 10%”

Example job for CMA resume

Lead financial operations for a prominent hotel chain with 6 locations in Iowa, driving efficiency and profitability through strategic financial planning and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive financial analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and revenue growth strategies
Develop and manage the annual budgeting process, collaborating with department heads to meet objectives
Prepare accurate and timely financial reports for senior management and stakeholders, providing valuable insights for decision-making
Oversee internal controls and ensure compliance with industry regulations

Quick tip: Create impressive job descriptions easily in our quick-and-easy Resume Builder by adding pre-written job phrases for every industry and career stage.

Education section

Near the end of your resume add your education section

Experienced candidates should keep it brief and focus on professional qualifications – and junior candidates can include high school diplomas, college degrees etc.

Additional information

If you have anything else to add which is relevant to the jobs you are applying for, the additional info section is the place to add it.

Perhaps you have a hobby which involves relevant skills, or maybe you have some awards or publications worth mentioning.

Writing your own winning CMA resume

By tailoring your resume to the specific job and industry you are targeting and ensuring that it effectively communicates your professional value, you can position yourself as a top candidate for all CMA (Certified Management Accountant) positions.

Good luck with your job search!

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CMA Resume Tips for Candidates at Any Stage of Certification

You are deep in preparations for the CMA exam and pouring every waking hour into earning your certification. At the same time, you want to start advertising your upcoming success and landing your dream job. This means it’s time to buff up your CMA resume.

You may be wondering how to sell yourself on a CMA candidate resume, if you’re still working on passing the exam.

I’ve got a few tried and true tips to help advertise your upcoming certification so you can start applying for accounting jobs worthy of your ambition.

Originally published in 2018, this article was updated and republished on April 26, 2023.

Optimizing Your CMA Resume as a Candidate

Since one of the CMA requirements is an applicable bachelor’s degree, you are already well on your way to landing an accounting job.

Recruiters are going to be especially thrilled when they read you are earning your Certified Management Accountant certification from the IMA .

Selling yourself on a CMA candidate resume however, requires a little finessing in terms of phrasing and placement.

First and foremost, you must make it clear that you are a candidate, and do not hold the actual certification (yet!).

Resume Sections: Where to List CMA Candidacy

If you have any other finance or accounting-related certifications, create a section called “Certifications.” Use this space to list your CMA candidacy and any other certifications you have.

If you do not have any other certifications or licenses, then list yourself as a CMA candidate under Experience or Education.

In both scenarios, list the date you will be sitting for the exam. This date should be no later than three to six months from the date of your CMA candidate resume submission. Otherwise, it will look like you are procrastinating.

Worse, it could look like you are trying to fool recruiters into believing you are working towards something just to land a job, when in reality, you have no intention of completing it.

Bonus points if you have already passed one part of the exam. Be sure to highlight this accomplishment on your resume, because it shows your intention, dedication, and proven track record for successful completion.

Exam Secrets Cheat Sheet

Choosing the Best CMA Resume Format

Competition is fierce, and some people like to think outside the box in order to stand out. In the field of accounting and finance, I would not recommend this.

Rather than fall for flashy resume designs, stick with a tried and true format.

Follow these simple guidelines to structure your CMA resume format:

Keep it brief: Limit your resume to a single page.
Use reverse chronological order: List work experience with your most recent job first.
Use simple fonts: Use classic fonts, like Arial or Times New Roman, no smaller than 10pt-12pt.
Avoid “Objective”: Do NOT use an “Objective Statement” — the objective is obvious and it’s a waste of space.
Avoid repetition : Don’t include “Summary” paragraphs unless you are desperate to fill in some space.
Limit bulleted lists: Don’t over-use bullet points and keep lists to a manageable size.

Creating the ultimate CMA candidate resume is deceptively simple. For each job, list out no more than three to six sentences pertaining to your general job duties. Follow this up with one to three bullet points to call recruiters’ attention to important accomplishments.

Individuals in this industry are notoriously traditional. Too much creativity can turn them off, so keep your resume details lean and clean.

Your Accounting Resume Cover Letter

A good resume is essential to have in your arsenal as you move forward in your CMA career. One important element that will change for every company you apply with is your cover letter.

A resume cover letter can make you stand out – if it’s done well. Don’t simply reiterate the information in your resume. Instead, create a brief, succinct, and personalized message to the hiring manager or HR personnel.

A good cover letter shows that you understand the position and feel confident that you have the experience and skills to excel in the role.

Even if you don’t have the name of the hiring manager, you can easily create a cover letter that mirrors language in the job posting, and ensures you put yourself in the right light as a top candidate for the position.

Leveraging LinkedIn Before Taking the CMA Exam

LinkedIn is a massive tool with virtual access requiring minimal effort. It goes without saying that job recruiters will be looking for your profile before contacting you.

In addition to your CMA resume, recruiters are likely to review your social profile — one of which is your LinkedIn profile .

Take the time to make sure your profile is as up-to-date as possible.

Since you have not earned your certification just yet, you will want to use your LinkedIn profile Headline to advertise that you are a CMA candidate.

Request endorsements from your previous or current colleagues on your accounting skills.

Follow your favorite finance and accounting companies to receive updates and show you’re interested.

Join groups related to the CMA designation and don’t forget to engage in them regularly.

CMA Resume Examples

It can be helpful to see how other successful professionals have crafted their CMA resumes.

Here is a resume example you can use as a template to adapt as a CMA or CMA candidate:

A Great Resume Catalyzes a Great CMA Career

It is important to remember that the Certified Management Accountant certification is recognized globally. Professionals, especially those in the corporate sector, recognize the unique and valuable skills a CMA brings to the table.

By becoming a CMA, you are demonstrating in-depth knowledge and understanding of accounting and financial management skills that recruiters are looking for.

If you don’t yet have the certification, the fact that you are working hard to become a CMA demonstrates your potential. It’s a signal to employers that you’re interested in learning, growth, and leadership.

Now is the time to commit to becoming a CMA and taking your accounting career to the next level.

Need help passing the CMA exam to make this happen?

Learn more about how the CMA Exam Academy will help you pass on the very first try.

Hi, I’m Nathan Liao (aka the CMA Coach)! For the last 10 years, over 82,000 accounting and finance pros came knocking at my door seeking guidance and help. If you’re also aiming to conquer the CMA exam on your very first try—without wasting away time or money—you’ve found your ultimate guide. Dive in deeper to discover more about me and the dedicated team that powers CMA Exam Academy. Click here and let’s embark on this journey together!

Found it helpful? Share it with others

7 Comments on “CMA Resume Tips for Candidates at Any Stage of Certification”

Hi Nathan Quick question. I recently passed both exams and fulfilled the other requirements. How long does it take to receive the formal certification. Can I indicate my CMA certification on my resume?

Congrats on passing both the exam!

You’ll be able to indicate your CMA title on the resume as soon as the IMA approves your education and work experience requirements and displays the CMA badge on your IMA profile.

it would be more easier if you could just give us a sample of how a resume looks for a trainee level in cma..

Hi Alda, I may create an example of a CMA candidate resume and add it to this post later on, but in the meantime you can easily search for resume templates on the web 🙂

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Maximising Your CMA Resume: Expert Tips for Success

CMA Job Role

Choosing the right resume format, listing cma certification on resume, successful cma resume tips.

Strategic Placement of CMA Certification : Showcase your CMA certification as a part of the education or qualifications section. Not only does this demonstrate your knowledge, but it also attracts the attention of recruiters at the early stage of resume screening. Supply evidence, including the date of certification, the issuing entity, and so on. This CMA resume tip makes your qualifications credible and open.
Highlight Achievements and Contributions : When describing your professional experiences, mention your significant accomplishments. Showcase your contributions’ impact on financial results, cost control, and strategic planning.
Showcase Diverse Skills: Skills beyond technical excellence include analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. CMA positions demand a multi-disciplinary skill set. Use the skills part of your resume to prove your ability to do financial analysis, budgeting, and other such areas. This gives an overall picture of your capacity.
Tailor Your Resume for Every Application : Tailor your CV to every job application process by associating it with the particular requirements of the position. This custom approach shows that you pay particular attention to the details, making your resume more appropriate for potential employers.
Utilise a Professional Summary : The professional summary should be a brief yet substantive paragraph placed at the top of a resume. This area must demonstrate your key career achievements, competencies, and what makes you a CMA professional. A persuasive professional summary can make recruiters curious and make them look into the details provided in your resume.
Quantify Your Impact : Whenever it is feasible, quantify your impact using definite results. This CMA resume tip contains the essence of your achievements and indicates what you can add to an organisation. Use percentages, figures, or any other quantifiable metrics to illustrate the magnitude and impact of your contributions.

Sample Resume

Financial Analyst | XYZ Corporation
Conducted in-depth financial analysis to support strategic decision-making.
Collaborated with cross-functional groups to create and implement budgetary plans, resulting in a 15% reduction in operational costs.
Prepared financial reports and forecasts while ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
Accounting Intern | ABC Accounting Firm
Helped in auditing procedures while meeting the regulatory needs of the organisation’s internal policies.
Involvement in preparing financial statements, acquiring hands-on experience in reconciliations, and the whole financial reporting process.
Performed research on developing standards of accounting and their projected effects on the industry.
Recognised for outstanding contribution in implementing cost-saving measures.
Received the “Best Intern” award at ABC Accounting Firm for exceptional performance during the internship.
Financial Analysis
Budgeting and Forecasting
Financial Reporting
Cost Management
Strategic Planning
Audit and Compliance
Microsoft Excel
ERP Systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Additional Things to Add to Your Resume

Professional Development Section : Include a section dedicated to ongoing professional development, such as relevant conferences, certificates, or any other manual training you have recently attended. This indicates your willingness to keep up with the prevailing trends and improve your skills.
Technology Proficiency : Discuss your experience with the suite of accounting software, ERP systems, and other technological tools commonly used in management accounting. This shows that you are flexible in your approach to accounting.
Professional Memberships : Note any professional associations related to management accounting, like the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). Membership in organisations relevant to your field is a sign of a professional who values standards and networking in the work ecosystem.
Language Proficiency : Where relevant, refer to the level of language proficiency in a way that is related to your professional standing, especially if you are working in an international or multicultural environment. A considerable knowledge of other languages can be a great asset.
Continuous Learning Initiatives : Talk about any opportunities you may have taken advantage of to ensure continuous learning, including attending conferences and webinars or signing up for advanced courses. This reveals a proactive measure to be updated about technological developments in the industry.
Project Management Experience : If you have a background in project management for financial initiatives, you should include a separate section with details. This signifies your ability to handle finances and implement financial projects well.
Publications and Presentations : If you are a writer of industry publications or a speaker at forums, make a section with these achievements. This brings an element of validation to your business profile.
Leadership and Team Collaboration : Highlight if you have any prior experience working in leadership positions or project-oriented teams. A successful manager accountant requires practical leadership skills and the ability to work with a team.
Global Experience: Emphasise any foreign work experience or awareness of foreign financial practices, if relevant. This, however, is particularly applicable to the current globalised business world.
Volunteering and Community Involvement: Highlight any volunteer work or community activities involving accounting or financial skills. This will demonstrate your commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices.

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