Resume heading suggestions for the MCPL

Before you start, aim for 2–3 pages and do not force it into one page. Use clean, conservative formatting—no graphics or design-heavy templates, and avoid excessive jargon. Non-policing scholars will be reading it.

Header and Professional Identity

Keep it restrained and command-oriented.

• Name, rank, agency

• Contact info

• Optional: LinkedIn

Below that, include a short professional profile (4–6 lines):

Focus on scope of command, leadership domains, and strategic exposure.

Executive Summary of Leadership Experience

This replaces a generic “objective.” Frame your career in terms of organizational impact, not assignments.

• Years of service

• Progressive leadership roles

• Core competencies

Professional Experience

This is the core section. Avoid listing duties. Emphasize scope, decisions, and outcomes.

Include position and dates, and then highlight any strategic initiatives you led

• Measurable outcomes (crime reduction, clearance rates, response improvements)

• Organizational change (policy, training, reform)

• Partnerships (federal, regional, community)

Education

List degrees in standard format. If your undergraduate GPA is strong or recent graduate work exists, include it. Otherwise, keep it minimal.

Training and Professional Development

Include:

• FBI National Academy, PERF, Northwestern SPSC, etc.

• Command-level or executive leadership programs

• Specialized certifications (intelligence, analytics, crisis leadership)

Teaching, Presentations, or Publications (if applicable)

Even internal training counts.

• Academy instruction

• Conference presentations

• Guest lectures

• Articles (even internal publications)

Professional Affiliations

Keep it selective and relevant.