There are a number of situations when you may need a resume as a small business owner (here are a few examples of when a business owner’s resume is appropriate).

But a resume for an entrepreneur isn’t the same as the one you had when you graduated from college or worked at a corporate job. It’s an entirely different beast.

To get started, download the business owner resume template we created of you. Then keep the following must-haves in mind as you customize the resume for your business experience.

Overview of Your Entrepreneurial Experience

The most important part of your business owner resume is the section that outlines your experience as an entrepreneur. You don’t have to write a book — one to two paragraphs may be enough — but focus on summarizing what your entrepreneurial journey has entailed.

Highlights of Specific, Measurable Achievements

If the first section provides an overview of who you are as a business owner, then this section should dig into the nitty gritty. Include a bulleted list of specific and measurable things you’ve accomplished during your entrepreneurial career.

Skills You’ve Developed as an Entrepreneur

During the time you have been a business owner, you have most likely developed a diverse set of skills. This section is where you can list the skills you have that make you unique. This section is all about providing a peek at what you can do and showing how much know-how you have under your belt.

Corporate Background (If Applicable)

If you worked for someone else during your career, you should include those details in your resume. You don’t want it to be featured with primary importance since you are focusing on your entrepreneurial endeavors, but any jobs you had prior to starting your own business have played a role in shaping your experience. It’s good to include at least brief details about them.

Education and Certifications

Education, licenses and certifications are typically not as important on a business owner resume as they are on a traditional resume, but just like past jobs, your past education can tell a lot about your commitment to learning. List any special education and training to demonstrate how you’ve been proactive about bolstering your experience with structured learning.

Do you have a business owner’s resume? What have you used it for?