How to Write a Resume – 10 Amazing Hints for Crafting a Professional Resume

1. Begin by employing a layout that is attractive. It is a good idea to use a bold font and italics when you want to highlight main points.

Downloadable templates are not recommended: they are often far to “one size fits all” and can be dull. Instead, use your creative skills without going over the top. The use of a touch of color will often work well.

2. Justify the text rather than using left align.

The majority of people are more comfortable reading justified text and as such your resume will be easier to read.

3. Select a font that is popular. Some of the more easily recognizable fonts are Times New Roman, Arial and Verdana and are among the best for a resume.

Resist the urge to experiment with unusual fonts. The vast majority of computers are not able to read all available fonts and you will run the risk that your file cannot be read correctly.

If your goal is to be taken seriously, avoid using “cute” graphics. If you do this, there is every chance that your resume will be rejected immediately, because it is simply not appropriate for business correspondence.

4. Avoid the use of “I” in your resume, instead beginning each sentence with a powerful verb. Some examples are:

– Organized annual student conference by securing speakers and working intimately with marketing department executives.

– Implemented production bonus incentives and “best practices” matrix for each division thereby raising overall productivity by approximately 40%.

5. Craft an appropriate cover letter for every position. Never send out a resume without a cover letter.

This is quite simply basic business etiquette. Address each cover letter directly both to the position and wherever possible use the name of the person. Generic cover letters indicate a lack of commitment

6. Print a copy of your resume & carefully read it word for word.

It is a good idea to use the grammar and spell check function, but don’t expect it to pick up every error.

7. If you have a degree, put down only the year that you obtained your degree.

This is because a number of systems used to scan resumes will not recognize the attainment of a degree if you include the dates of attendance.

8. Remove all e-mail hyperlinks and web addresses in your resume and cover letter.

9. Be consistent!

For example, don’t list one date as 1/2004 and then list another date as 9/22/2004.

You should also list any software that you use or have competency in consistently. MS Word and Microsoft Excel are both correct ways to list the programs, but they are not consistent when used together.

10. Be certain that you follow punctuation and capitalization rules.

If you are unsure of any rules, use a reference manual.