I owned my own business. Should I call myself "Founder" or "Owner" on my resume?

Use the title that is accurate and helps the reader: "Founder" or "Owner" is fine, but consider adding a functional title that shows what you did day to day.

Examples:

• "Owner and Head Chef, Spice Route Kitchen"
• "Founder and Operations Manager, QuickFix Mobile Repairs"

If you are applying for an employee role, emphasise skills the employer needs, such as managing staff, budgeting and customer service. Some recruiters worry business owners will leave to start again, so a cover letter explaining your move can help.

Use your bullets to show the business side of your work with real outcomes, for example: "Hired and trained a team of six", "Managed supplier relationships and monthly budgets", or "Grew repeat customers through a loyalty scheme". If the business closed or was sold, say so briefly. Listing the business with a clear title and dates also avoids a gap that might otherwise make a recruiter wonder what you were doing.