Elevate Your Resume with These Proven Top 10 Tips

Writing a great resume can be tricky. You need to balance between showing off your achievements and not giving too much information that could overwhelm a potential employer. There are numerous resume writing tips that can help you find that balance and make a good first impression during your job search.

Common Resume Writing FAQs

Before you start creating your resume, it’s important to understand its basic functions. Let’s explore some common questions people often ask:

What is the purpose of a resume?

The main goal of a resume is to give a snapshot of your skills, experiences, and achievements that match the job you’re applying for. It’s like a marketing brochure, aiming to persuade the employer to invite you for a job interview by demonstrating how well-suited you are for the position based on your qualifications.

How long should my resume be?

The best length for a resume is one page, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience. This length helps you concentrate on your most important experiences and skills. For people with a longer career, a two-page resume is okay if the information is relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Can I use a functional resume instead of a chronological one?

Chronological resumes are usually preferred because they clearly show your work history in order. However, a functional resume might be better if you’re changing careers or have big gaps in your employment. This kind of resume highlights your skills and experiences more than where you’ve worked. But be careful with this format because some employers might be wary of it since it doesn’t clearly show your work timeline.

Should I include a resume summary?

This entirely depends on your career stage. A professional summary is usually better for those who have some work experience, as it showcases your skills and what you can offer based on your previous jobs. On the other hand, an objective statement might be more suitable if you’re new to the workforce or if you’re changing careers, since it focuses on what you are seeking to achieve and how you hope to grow with the company.

Can I include volunteer work on my resume?

Absolutely. Volunteer work can be included, especially if it’s relevant to the job you’re applying for or demonstrates transferable skills. It’s also useful to include if you have a limited work history.

Can I use resume templates?

It’s okay to use a template as a starting point for your resume, but make sure to tailor it to showcase your unique skills and experiences. Templates sometimes have formatting that doesn’t work well when you upload it to a job application system. Make sure that any template you choose is clean, professional, and easy to read.

Should I Include a Photo on My Resume?

Including a photo on your resume isn’t standard practice and can sometimes be seen as discriminatory. Unless the employer specifically asks for one, it’s best to leave a photo off your resume.

How often should I update my resume?

Update your resume regularly, ideally after completing significant projects, learning new skills, or achieving new certifications. Keeping your resume updated ensures you’re always ready for new opportunities or unexpected job changes.

Unlock Your Career Potential: 10 Professional Resume Tips

1. Use a Clean, Clear Resume Format

A good resume is brief and concise. Pick a neat, professional design that makes it easy to read quickly. You can use common fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri in sizes from 10 to 12 points. Use bullet points to make information easy to understand and keep the formatting the same all throughout the resume. Margins should be at least one inch wide on every side and there should be enough space between chunks of information, so your resume doesn’t look too busy.

2. Write a Compelling Summary

With your name, phone number, and email address at the top, write a short summary about yourself to place directly below it. This should be 3 to 4 sentences long and briefly talk about your best skills, what you’ve done before, and what makes you special.

Make sure this part shows how you fit the job you’re applying for by using some of the keywords from the job description. It should not only list your skills but also show who you are professionally and why you stand out. This section is your chance to make a great first impression and set the tone for the rest of your resume.

3. Highlight Your Relevant Experiences and Achievements

When listing your work experience on your resume, it’s best to list it out in chronological order. Start with your most recent job and go backwards from there. For each job, include your job title, the company’s name, its location, and the dates you worked there. This helps the person reading your resume see your latest and most relevant experiences first.

Focus on what you achieved instead of simply listing what your job duties were. Start each bullet point with action verbs to show your direct role and impact. Using specific numbers, like percentages or metrics, to show your success in a clear way. For example, instead of saying “responsible for managing a team,” you could say you “managed a team of 10, increasing productivity by 20% through better leadership and new methods.”

4. Use Related Keywords

Many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to help manage the large number of resumes they get. These systems scan resumes for specific keywords and phrases from the job description to identify suitable candidates. To improve your resume’s chance of getting through these filters and being seen by a recruiter, try customizing your resume for each job.

Include relevant keywords and phrases from the job listing, focusing on skills, tools, and experiences mentioned there. Use these terms naturally within your descriptions of your work history and skills. However, make sure you don’t overload your resume with too many keywords. This can make it seem unnatural and might even make the ATS flag it as spam.

5. Include a Skills Section

Make a separate section on your resume for relevant skills and certifications to show off what you can do. If you have different kinds of skills, like soft and technical, group them into categories.

For example, technical skills could be things like using software or speaking another language, and soft skills could be things like being a good leader or communicating well. Try to organize this section so it’s easy to look at quickly, maybe by using columns or just a simple bulleted list.

6. Add Your Educational Background

Start with your highest degree when listing your education on your resume. Include the name of the school, where it is, what degree you got, and the year you graduated. If you just finished school and your GPA is above 3.0, you can add that too.

7. Create a List References on a Separate Page

It’s a good idea to leave references off your resume. Including them uses up space that you could spend talking about your skills, experiences, and achievements.

Instead, make a separate list of references that you can give to the recruiters if asked. This list should have the names, job titles, places where they work, and how to contact people who can speak well of your professional skills and character. Make sure these people know they might be contacted by potential employers.

8. Do Not Add Personal Information

Including personal details like hobbies, marital status, and disabilities on your resume is not only irrelevant but can also introduce bias into the hiring process. Employers are mainly interested in your skills, experience, and qualifications related to the job.

Additionally, sharing such personal information might unintentionally break privacy rules and could distract the recruiters from the important qualifications you bring to the role. It’s best to keep your resume professional and focused, making sure that every piece of information you include showcases your abilities and suitability for the job.

9. Use a Cover Letter to Add Context

Always attach it along with your resume unless the job posting specifically says not to. The letter should add to what your resume says by giving more about your personality, explaining any unusual things in your resume (like gaps in employment), and giving more details on how your experiences fit with the job. It’s your chance to create a personal connection with the hiring manager and stand out from other applicants.

10. Proofread Multiple Times

After finishing your resume, check it several times to make sure there are no spelling, grammar, or formatting mistakes. These errors can make you look unprofessional and might make the hiring manager question your attention to detail. It’s also a good idea to have someone else look over your resume to spot any mistakes you might have missed. You can also use tools like Grammarly or Microsoft Word’s spell check to find basic mistakes.

HUGHES RESOURCES CAN HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT JOB

We match candidates with job opportunities in industrial, clerical, and professional settings. Whether you’re seeking a change, advancement, or a fresh start, we’re here to support and guide you every step of the way. Contact us today and let’s explore how we can help you find a job that not only meets your needs but also fulfills your professional ambitions!

Bobby Shallenberger

Account Executive- Rockford, Illinois & Beloit, Wisconsin

Bobby Shallenberger is an Account Executive for the Rockford, Illinois and Beloit, Wisconsin branches.  He joined the company in 2025 and brings considerable sales and marketing expertise to Hughes. He has owned several businesses during his career and excels at developing relationships with companies to understand and support their initiatives. 

Kira Jaghama

Search Consultant 

Kira Jaghama is a Search Consultant based out of our Rockford, Illinois office, specializing in recruiting for Professional, Technical, and Executive roles. Since joining the team in March 2024, Kira has eagerly embraced her role, focusing on building strong partnerships with clients and candidates. Kira finds fulfillment in being a trusted resource for clients looking to fill professional roles.
 
A graduate of Rock Valley College, Kira brings a dynamic approach to her work, where no two days are alike. She enjoys the variety of her role, from interviewing new candidates to exploring diverse positions. Her dedication to professional growth and relationship-building sets her apart as integral member of the team.
 
Outside of work, Kira enjoys spending quality time with her family and engaging in activities such as boating and volleyball. Kira’s commitment to excellence and her passion for her work make her a key contributor to our success.

Sally Noble, CSP

VP, Recruiting

Sally Noble joined Hughes in 2012, bringing experience from her a role in the technology industry with Electronic Data Systems (EDS). At EDS, Sally developed her expertise in technical writing and project management skills that have been invaluable to Hughes. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her transition to the role of Vice President of Recruiting has been marked by significant contributions to the growth and efficiency of the staffing operations of the company. 

In her current role, Sally oversees the operations of the professional recruiting division as well as the operations of the Hughes Staffing branch locations, ensuring that the services delivered meet the highest standards of quality and excellence. Sally’s software expertise, significant training knowledge, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a key asset to the entire Hughes team.

Sally is also actively involved in several volunteer organizations, including the Freeport Noon Rotary Club, the Lincoln-Douglas Society, and the One Book One Freeport Committee. Her dedication and diligence foster a collaborative and productive work environment. In addition to time with her husband and children, Sally enjoys reading and gardening in her free time.  She is known to continually seeking opportunities to contribute and grow both personally and professionally.

Carolyn Mitchell, CSP

VP, Marketing & Sales

Carolyn Mitchell holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering with a minor in Japanese from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She began her career as a Quality Engineer, then moved to technical sales with Honeywell before transitioning to a similar role as an entrepreneur. In 2017, Carolyn joined Hughes as the Director of Staffing where she learned the ins and outs of recruiting and staffing before transitioning to Marketing & Sales side of the business.

Her role as brand curator and sales leader involves strengthening Hughes’ market position and driving revenue to achieve business objectives. Carolyn’s approach to brand management has been pivotal in elevating Hughes’ brand presence. Her experience and savvy in sales also contributes to the company’s growth and success.

Beyond her professional duties, Carolyn is dedicated to fostering a positive and engaging work culture at Hughes. She excels in connecting people and building partnerships. Carolyn’s authentic style and dedication to meaningful connections make her a valuable leader within the organization.

In her leisure time, Carolyn enjoys travel, concerts, and time with her four sons, extended family, and friends at her home or on the boat at Lake Carroll. She is also an avid yogi and 200-hour R.Y.T. Certified Yoga Instructor.  She actively participates in various community and professional organizations, including serving on the Board of Directors for The Greater Freeport Partnership and volunteering at The Freeport Area Church Cooperative.

Mariah Leiser, CSP

VP, Finance & Administration

Mariah Leiser serves as the Vice President of Finance & Administration at Hughes, where she oversees the financial and administrative functions critical to the company’s operations. Her responsibilities include managing payroll, invoicing, workers’ compensation, unemployment, and healthcare processes, ensuring that these functions run smoothly and efficiently to support the company’s financial health and operational effectiveness.

Mariah joined Hughes in 2014 as a Staffing Specialist and quickly demonstrated her ability to fill key roles quickly. Her exceptional performance led to a transition into the accounting department in 2016, where she excelled in handling financial operations. In 2024, Mariah earned her promotion to Vice President Finance & Administration, a role in which she continues to drive financial strategies and administrative excellence.

Mariah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Indiana University and a Master of Business Administration from Columbia College of Missouri. Her diverse educational background and advanced business training provide her with a unique perspective and a well-rounded skill set, enhancing her effectiveness in her current role.

Outside of her professional life, Mariah enjoys time with her family, cooking, gardening, and traveling. She and her husband juggle a busy life with a toddler, two older children, and two goldendoodles.  She is also actively involved in various volunteer organizations, contributing her skills and expertise to support community initiatives like Freeport Art Museum’s Paint the Port event.

Stephanie Richardson

Regional Manager – Region 3

Stephanie Richardson is the Regional Manager overseeing the Dixon, Illinois, and Aurora, Illinois divisions of Hughes. She joined the company in November 2019, bringing over 20 years of experience from her career in the Postal Service.

Stephanie began her journey at Hughes as a Staffing Coordinator for the Dixon office, where she quickly demonstrated her exceptional organizational skills and logistical expertise. Her outstanding contributions led to her promotion to Staffing Specialist in 2021 and subsequently to Regional Manager in 2022.

As Regional Manager, Stephanie oversees staffing operations for both the Dixon and Aurora regions, ensuring clients receive top-tier candidates and that the staffing process is efficient and effective. Her extensive background in the Postal Service has equipped her with exceptional organizational, communication, and management skills, which she leverages to lead her team and foster strong client relationships.

Stephanie is deeply committed to delivering exceptional service to both clients and candidates, striving to make every placement a positive and meaningful experience. Her dedication to excellence and her ability to foster a family-like atmosphere within the company make her a trusted leader and a valuable asset to Hughes.

Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys spending time at the pool with friends, cherishing moments with her kids and grandchildren, and participating in activities that bring laughter and joy to her life.

Stepheni Chandler

Operations Specialist

Stepheni Chandler is the Operations Specialist at our Dixon, Illinois office, within the Finance & Administration Division. Since joining the company in January 2015, she has become a vital part of the team, starting first as a Branch Manager before transitioning to Operations in 2024. Stepheni takes pride in contributing to both the company’s success and the community through her involvement in various volunteer initiatives.
 
As an Operations Specialist, her role involves supporting key administrative functions using her keen eye for detail. Stepheni’s dedication to organization and her consistent approach to following processes have made her a trusted resource within the division.
 
Outside of work, Stepheni enjoys spending time with her family and pets, as well as staying active with outdoor activities like camping, kayaking, and hiking. She is a fan of Nicholas Sparks’ books and loves a good comedic movie. Understanding the importance of community involvement, Stepheni serves as the Dixon Rotary Board Secretary on the Dixon Chamber Board of Directors. Her well-rounded approach to work and life makes her a valued member of the team.

Jessica Alexander-Gabriel

Accounting Manager

Jessica Alexander-Gabriel is the Accounting Manager at our Corporate office in Freeport, Illinois, part of the Finance & Administration Division. Since joining the team in 2022, she has played a key role in ensuring financial accuracy and compliance across all accounting functions. With her education from Highland Community College and ongoing studies at Columbia College, Jessica brings a solid foundation to her work, helping to streamline processes and enhance departmental efficiency.
 
Jessica has a natural ability to build relationships with her colleagues, with a penchant for helping others find optimism in even the most challenging situations. In her role, she manages budgets, oversees audits, and supports the financial strategies that align with the company’s goals.
 
Outside of work, Jessica loves spending quality time with her husband, their son, along with their pets. She enjoys being outdoors, traveling, and discovering new places. Whether she is diving into a good book, enjoying movies, or indulging in cheese and chocolate, Jessica embraces a well-rounded approach to life. You will often find her sipping her iced white mocha as she works diligently on accounting reports.

Emily Seagren

Marketing Manager

Emily Seagren is a Marketing Manager based in our Rockford, Illinois office. Since joining the team in 2023, she has played a key role within the Marketing Division, promoting Hughes and enhancing its presence in local communities. With a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of Illinois at Chicago, Emily brings a strong foundation in marketing strategies and creative thinking to her role.

She thrives in the dynamic work environment at Hughes, where she enjoys collaborating with her colleagues on a variety of projects. Emily is passionate about finding innovative ways to communicate our company’s message and drive engagement digitally and within our local communities.

Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with family and friends, travel, and golf.  She is a fan of all things related to beauty and loves going to concerts.  Her travels have taken her to beautiful destinations like Maui, Hawaii, and Barcelona, Spain, enriching her perspective and experiences.

Heather Metcalf

Client Specialist

Heather Metcalf is a Client Specialist based in our Rockford, Illinois office, focusing on client partnerships for the Sauk Valley and Rockford regions. Since joining the team in 2024, Heather has quickly become a vital part of our sales team, using her expertise in building connections to enhance client relationships and drive company success.
 
With a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Marketing and Management from The Illinois Institute of Art, Heather combines her educational background with a passion for collaboration. She easily creates opportunities to connect with her clients and colleagues, celebrating successes and sharing ideas with a vibrant enthusiasm that fosters teamwork.
 
Outside of work, Heather enjoys traveling, attending sporting events, and camping. She cherishes moments spent with family, especially her son. When it comes to food, nothing beats her mom’s cooking! Heather embraces every moment of her busy life while still dedicating time for her love of travel and photography.

Christine Ceroni

Branch Manager – Freeport, Illinois & Monroe, Wisconsin

Christine Ceroni is a Branch Manager at our Freeport, Illinois, and Monroe, Wisconsin offices. Since joining the team in March 2022, Christine has embraced her role with enthusiasm, leveraging her background to build meaningful connections with candidates and clients. She holds an Associate of Applied Science with an emphasis in Equine Science from Highland Community College, along with certifications in Riding Instruction, Stable Management, and Hoof Care.

Christine’s favorite part of her job is meeting new people and understanding their unique needs. She takes pride in being part of their support system, providing guidance, and fostering a sense of community among her teammates, who she considers family.

Outside of work, Christine enjoys the great outdoors, whether working or relaxing, and treasures cozy moments with her favorite books. Her ideal day includes painting and organizing her home, playing with her dog Piper, and unwinding in the sun.

Angela DeCarlo

Account Executive- Aurora & Dixon, Illinois

Angela DeCarlo is a personable and driven Account Executive serving the Aurora and Dixon Illinois offices. In her role within the Sales Division, she focuses on building strong client relationships and delivering thoughtful solutions that support business success. With a background in the beauty industry and experience managing a laser hair removal company, Angela brings creativity, adaptability, and a passion for helping others to every interaction.

Her professional journey from esthetician and makeup artist to real estate license holder reflects her resilience and ability to connect with clients on a meaningful level. She takes pride in understanding individual goals and creating lasting partnerships built on trust.

Outside of work, Angela enjoys spending time with her three daughters. She loves cooking, yoga, shopping, gardening, decorating, and attending estate sales. Her ideal day includes a hot yoga class, a spa visit, and dinner with her family.

Kalli Halverson

Staffing Coordinator – Freeport, IL

Kalli Halverson is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator based in our Freeport, Illinois office, where she supports Staffing Specialists in both the Freeport and Monroe branches. Since joining the team in March 2023, Kalli has been passionate about helping candidates find fulfilling job opportunities. Her background in General Studies from Highland Community College equips her with a versatile skill set that enhances her role in the staffing division.
 
Kalli finds great joy in seeing candidates leave the office with smiles on their faces and a renewed sense of purpose. Her approachable nature and positive energy make her a favorite among colleagues and clients alike.
 
Outside of work, Kalli enjoys reading, working out, and enjoying meals with friends and family.  Her enthusiasm and spirit bring a good energy to our Freeport office.

Sarah Wypasek

Staffing Specialist – Dixon, IL

Sarah Wypasek is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Dixon, Illinois office, where she focuses on connecting job seekers with exciting opportunities. Since joining the team in April 2022, Sarah has leveraged her education from Sauk Valley Community College to support candidates and clients effectively, ensuring a positive experience throughout the staffing process.
 
Passionate about her role, Sarah thrives on building relationships and helping individuals find their ideal jobs. Her commitment to understanding the needs of both candidates and businesses has made her a valued resource in the Sauk Valley Region.
 
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys spending quality time with her two daughters, as well as her extended family and friends. Her ideal day involves relaxing by the pool or catching up on her favorite true crime shows.

Amarilis Rendon

Staffing Coordinator – Dixon, IL

Amarilis Rendon is a dedicated Staffing Coordinator at our Dixon, Illinois office, where she focuses on supporting Staffing Specialists in the region. Since joining the team in June 2023, she has leveraged her strong interpersonal skills and attention to detail to effectively match candidates with opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations.
 
Amarilis is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and strives to create positive experiences for both clients and candidates. Her commitment to understanding the unique needs of each party ensures that the staffing process is efficient and effective.
 
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Amarilis enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren, which brings her immense joy and fulfillment. On her ideal day off, she loves to relax with a good book or a captivating movie.

Michelle Walker

Staffing Specialist – Beloit, WI

Michelle Walker is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Beloit, Wisconsin office, focusing on matching talent with great job opportunities in the area. Since joining the team in July 2023, Michelle has made it her mission to understand the unique needs of both clients and candidates, fostering strong relationships to ensure successful placements.
 
With an Associate of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin campuses, she combines her educational background with a passion for helping others. Michelle enjoys the dynamic nature of her role, where every day brings the chance to connect with new people and assist them in achieving their career goals.
 
Outside of work, Michelle loves spending quality time with her family, singing, cooking, and attending concerts and music festivals. On her ideal day, you might find her whipping up a delicious breakfast, tidying up her home, and enjoying lunch or dinner with a friend.

Sandra Ramos

Branch Manager – Woodstock, IL

Sandra Ramos is a Staffing Specialist based in our Woodstock, Illinois office, where she is committed to matching candidates with rewarding job opportunities. Since joining the team in May 2024, Sandra has leveraged her background in Public Relations from National University College to foster strong connections with both clients and job seekers.
 
Sandra takes great pride in her role, where she enjoys helping people navigate their career paths and find fulfilling positions. Her favorite aspect of the job is building relationships and contributing to the success of others.
 
Outside of work, Sandra cherishes quality time with her son and their cat. She loves dancing, cooking, and exploring nature, often enjoying the great outdoors. An avid reader of drama and fiction, she likes action and crime films and is always up for trying new foods.

Ana Hansen

Staffing Specialist – Woodstock, IL

Ana Hansen is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Woodstock, Illinois office, where she focuses on connecting talented individuals with great job opportunities. Since joining the team in May 2024, Ana has embraced her role with enthusiasm, leveraging her skills to support both clients and candidates in achieving their career goals.
 
Ana is passionate about creating positive experiences in the staffing process and enjoys working closely with her clients to understand their unique needs. She believes that fostering strong relationships is key to successful placements.
 
Outside of work, Ana is a proud mother of five and loves spending quality time with her family. Her favorite pastimes include cooking and visiting the nail salon—her ultimate relaxation spot—where she enjoys indulging in a bit of self-care.

Sydney Zimdars

Staffing Specialist – Lake Geneva, WI

Sydney Zimdars is a dedicated Staffing Specialist at our Lake Geneva, Wisconsin office, focusing on connecting talented individuals with great job opportunities. Since joining the team in August 2022, Sydney has utilized her educational background in Psychology and Business Administration from the University of Findlay to effectively support both candidates and employers in their staffing needs.
 
Sydney’s passion for helping others is evident in her approach to her role, where she emphasizes building strong relationships and understanding the unique needs of those she serves. Her friendly demeanor and commitment to excellence have made her a trusted resource in the Lake Geneva division.
 
Outside of work, Sydney enjoys working out, solving puzzles, and binge-watching her favorite TV shows. Her ideal day off involves relaxing on the lake with family and friends.

Kim Pechuman

Branch Manager – River Falls, Wisconsin & Hastings, Minnesota

Kim Pechuman is a Branch Manager at our River Falls, Wisconsin, and Hastings, Minnesota offices, where she is dedicated to connecting Southeast Twin Cities Metro job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities.

Joining the team in June 2024, Kim brings a passion for fostering relationships and ensuring a positive experience for both clients and candidates.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Stout, Kim combines her educational background with her desire to help others navigate the job market. Her favorite aspect of the role is facilitating connections that lead to successful placements, making a difference in people’s lives.

Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending quality time with her spouse and their three dogs. She loves golfing and spending time on the lake or river, often going boating and fishing. In her downtime, Kim can be found reading or watching movies.

Erin Butler

Staffing Specialist – Rockford, Illinois

Erin Butler is a passionate and strategic Staffing Specialist serving the Rockford, Illinois office. In her role within the Staffing Division, she focuses on connecting top talent with the right opportunities while building lasting relationships with clients and candidates. With a strong foundation in business management and leadership, she brings energy, drive, and a commitment to helping others succeed, making her a vital contributor to the team’s success.

A proud graduate of Judson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Leadership, she combines academic knowledge with a proactive mindset to deliver thoughtful staffing strategies and exceptional service. Her dedication to personal and professional growth fuels her ability to lead with confidence and support meaningful outcomes for clients and colleagues alike.

Outside of work, Erin enjoys working out, visiting coffee shops, and reading. Her ideal day off would include grabbing a coffee, going to lunch with her sisters, and taking a nap before everyone else gets home, a perfect blend of connection, relaxation, and recharge.

Vanessa Hughes

CEO

Vanessa Hughes is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Hughes. A native of Freeport, Vanessa earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Elmhurst University and is currently pursuing a Masters in Finance through an extension program of Harvard University. Her career began at a technology company in the Chicago area before returning to Freeport in 2001 to manage a branch of Workplace Staffing. In 2003, Vanessa purchased the business and has been busy for 21+ years transforming it into what is now Hughes Recruiting & Consulting.

Under Vanessa’s leadership, one local staffing branch office has grown into a regional staffing and recruiting firm recognized for its commitment to excellence and community involvement. She oversees business development, strategic planning, and operational management, ensuring the company’s growth and sustainability.

Vanessa has always been one to give back and currently serves as Chair of Finance on the Executive Committee of Temporary Services Insurance Ltd., President of the Board of Directors for Freeport Art Museum, as well as serving on the advisory board for State Bank Freeport. 

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Vanessa enjoys time with family and friends, reading, and travel. Her business savvy along with her dedication to her team and clients throughout the region has been instrumental in Hughes’ success and positive impact on the community.

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