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Construction and layout
of resumés
There are many creative ways to construct your resumé. However, always keep in mind who will be reading your resumé and the type of position you are seeking. There are no exact ways of doing a resumé. There are many different styles, and everybody has a different expectation.
Printing: Today’s word processors and laser printers allow you to achieve professional typesetting results with minimal expense. Use a word-processing software package such as Microsoft Word and create your own resumé. Avoid using pre-packaged resumé writing software. They can be limiting and difficult to work with to fit your needs.
Writing style: Omit all personal pronouns. Avoid wordiness and strive for conciseness. Use phrases instead of lengthy sentences, and start the phrases with an action verb. Action verbs and phrases should be in the present tense if you are currently doing that action, past tense if it is a past job.
Format: Remember the employer will give your resumé the 20-second scan test. With this in mind, readability, eye appeal and a total positive impression are required. Generous spacing and separation of the components of your resumé will help you achieve this effect. You may want to use bold print or underlining to make certain items more visible.
Length: Remember that a resumé should be one page—possibly two pages in length. Regardless of the amount of work experience, this should be the rule. There is no rule that says every job, activity, class taken or volunteer experience needs to be listed.
Paper quality: Always have your resumé prepared on high-quality bond paper. Generally speaking, employers are cautious and conservative in their view and prefer resumés on white, off-white, ivory, light tan or light gray colored paper. Use your discretion when picking resumé paper.
A properly written resumé will show the employer
- Who you are
- What you know
- What you have accomplished
- What you would like to do
- What you can offer an employer
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 Career development |
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