Detective Resume Example (Free Guide)

Are you looking to become a detective? If so, you'll need a standout resume to make the most of your application. Our Detective Resume Example article provides a comprehensive guide on how to write an effective detective resume. It includes tips and advice on how to highlight your skills and experience, as well as a sample resume to get you started.

We will cover:

How to write a resume, no matter your industry or job title.
What to put on a resume to stand out.
The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
How to build a resume fast with our professional Resume Builder.
What a resume template is, and why you should use it.

Plus, we will provide expert resume writing tips and professional examples to inspire you.

What does a Detective do?

A detective is a law enforcement officer who investigates and gathers evidence to help solve crimes and identify suspects. They conduct interviews, analyze evidence, and use investigative techniques to uncover details about a case. Detectives may work in a variety of departments, including homicide, fraud, narcotics, and financial crimes.

We’re about to begin, but first, here are some other Detective related resume examples:

What are some responsibilities of a Detective?

Interview witnesses and victims
Collect evidence from crime scenes
Analyze evidence
Develop investigative strategies
Write reports
Present evidence in court
Conduct surveillance
Perform undercover operations
Conduct searches of people and property

Sample Detective Resume for Inspiration

Detective

Personal Details:

Name: Detective Jones
Address: 123 Main Street, Anytown, USA
Phone: 555-555-5555
Email: detective.jones@example.com

Detective Jones is a seasoned professional with more than 10 years of experience in the law enforcement field. He has a track record of successful investigations, as well as extensive knowledge of criminal law. Detective Jones is a highly-motivated and dedicated individual, with great interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

Work Experience:

Police Officer, Anytown Police Department, Anytown, USA (2010-Present)
Investigated and solved a wide variety of criminal cases
Conducted interviews and interrogations with suspects
Gathered evidence and wrote reports
Coordinated with other law enforcement agencies

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Anytown University, Anytown, USA (2008)

Skills:

Investigation
Interrogation
Criminal law
Evidence gathering
Report writing

Certifications:

Advanced Police Investigations, Anytown Police Academy (2016)

Languages:

English (native)
Spanish (conversational)

Resume tips for Detective

Creating a perfect, career-launching resume is no easy task. Following general writing rules can help, but it is also smart to get advice tailored to your specific job search. When you’re new to the employment world, you need Detective resume tips.
We collected the best tips from seasoned Detective - Check out their advice to not only make your writing process easier but also increase your chances of creating a resume that piques the interest of prospective employers.

Highlight successes in previous cases.
Include specialized training and certifications.
Describe your investigative techniques and skills.
Focus on the results you achieved.
Emphasize your communication skills.

Detective Resume Summary Examples

A resume summary or resume objective is a great way to quickly introduce yourself to potential employers. It highlights your skills, experience, and knowledge related to the position you are applying for. It can also give employers an idea of who you are as a person and how you might fit in with the company culture. A well-crafted summary or objective can help you stand out from other candidates and make a lasting impression.

For Example:

Highly experienced detective with 5 years of investigative work in the field. Skilled in conducting interviews and interrogations, collecting evidence, and writing reports.
Accomplished detective with 8 years of experience in crime scene investigation and evidence collection. Recognized for excellent communication, listening, and problem-solving skills.
Results-driven detective with 10 years of experience in the field. Expert in criminal investigations, evidence gathering, and witness interviews. Committed to public safety.
Highly dedicated detective with 7 years of professional experience in law enforcement. Skilled in apprehending suspects, interviewing witnesses, and writing reports.
Detective with 4 years of experience in criminal investigation and evidence gathering. Possesses excellent communication and organizational skills. Committed to public safety.

Build a Strong Experience Section for Your Detective Resume

Building a strong experience section for a detective resume is important for several reasons. First, it’s an opportunity to highlight your investigative and problem-solving skills, which are essential for this role. Additionally, it allows you to showcase your professional accomplishments, such as any awards you may have received or successful cases you’ve closed. Lastly, it allows employers to gain a better understanding of your background and experience in the field of detective work.

For Example:

Conducted thorough investigations and interrogations of suspects and witnesses in criminal cases.
Gathered and analyzed evidence from multiple sources to build a case.
Created and maintained detailed case files, records, reports and evidence.
Conducted surveillance and monitored suspects for criminal activity.
Performed background checks and provided expert testimony in court.
Assisted in the execution of search warrants and seizure of evidence.
Collaborated with other agencies to coordinate investigations.
Cultivated relationships with informants and confidential sources.
Developed strategies to identify and apprehend criminal suspects.
Assisted in the development of policies and procedures for the department.

Detective resume education example

Detectives need at least a high school diploma, and many have an associate or bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. They must also complete police academy training, which may include a combination of classroom and field instruction. In addition, detectives must usually complete a period of on-the-job training.

Here is an example of an experience listing suitable for a Detective resume:

B.A. in Criminal Justice, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 2017
Certified Law Enforcement Officer, Texas State University, Austin, TX, 2019
Advanced Crime Scene Investigations Training, Texas Forensic Science Academy, Dallas, TX, 2020
Forensic Psychology Certificate, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 2021

Detective Skills for a Resume

Adding skills to a detective resume is important because it helps to demonstrate to potential employers that the applicant has the necessary knowledge, expertise, and experience to be successful in the role. Detailed descriptions of a detective's skill set also provide evidence of their qualifications and abilities. By showcasing their skills, a detective can make themselves more attractive to potential employers and increase their chances of getting the job.

Soft Skills:

Problem solving
Critical thinking
Analytical skills
Attention to detail
Interviewing skills
Research ability
Negotiation skills
Organizational skills
Strong work ethic
Interpersonal skills

Hard Skills:

Investigation Skills
Interviewing Skills
Research Skills
Analytical Skills
Reporting Skills
Observation Skills
Writing Skills
Problem Solving
Computer Literacy
Data Analysis

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Detective Resume

In this competitive job market, employers receive an average of 180 applications for each open position. To process these resumes, companies often rely on automated applicant tracking systems, which can sift through resumes and eliminate the least qualified applicants. If your resume is among the few that make it past these bots, it must still impress the recruiter or hiring manager. With so many applications coming in, recruiters typically give each resume only 5 seconds of their attention before deciding whether to discard it. Considering this, it's best to avoid including any distracting information on your application that could cause it to be thrown away. To help make sure your resume stands out, review the list below of what you should not include on your job application.

Not including a cover letter. A cover letter is a great way to explain why you are the best candidate for the job and why you want the position.
Using too much jargon. Hiring managers do not want to read a resume full of technical terms that they do not understand.
Omitting important details. Make sure to include your contact information, educational background, job history, and any relevant skills and experiences.
Using a generic template. Take the time to customize your resume to the job you are applying for. This will show the employer that you are serious about the position.
Spelling and grammar errors. Always double-check your resume for typos, spelling mistakes, and grammar errors.
Focusing too much on duties. Make sure to include accomplishments and successes to show the employer that you are a great candidate.
Including personal information. Avoid including any personal information such as age, marital status, or religious beliefs.

Key takeaways for a Detective resume

Highlight any relevant detective experience, certifications, or specializations.
Include any specialized training or educational programs related to detective work.
Mention any memberships in law enforcement organizations.
Detail any relevant awards or commendations.
List any relevant skills such as research, investigation, and surveillance.
Include any special equipment or technologies used in detective work.
Provide references who can vouch for your detective work.

It's time to begin the job search. Make sure you put your best foot forward and land your next job with the help of Resumaker.ai.