Your resume needs to be professional and polished, because if you don't have a professional resume, your application materials probably won't get a second glance from any hiring manager.
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Your resume should be easy to read - avoid tiny fonts, dense blocks of text, vague language or excessive jargon, and inconsistent formatting. Learn more of the do's and don'ts of creating a professional resume.
Professional (and Unprofessional) Resumes
I've seen resumes that are riddled with typos. I've seen resumes that are inconsistent - bullets in some places, dashes in others, bold in some headings, plain text in others. One of the worst examples of a supposedly professional resume was a resume on bright green neon paper. That one was sent via FedEx, so I would be sure to notice it. Your resume, to be effective, needs to be consistent, concise, and clear and easy to read.
A professional resume must be free of any errors, including typos or grammatical mistakes. However you choose to format your resume, be consistent. For instance, if you use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements at one position, be sure to use bullet points on all other positions as well. And, make certain that the bullet points are formatted the same way throughout.
Legibility is also important. You want hiring managers to be able to easily read and absorb your work history and accomplishments. Use legible fonts and make sure that there is enough white space on the page to make it easy to scan. Use white- or cream-colored paper - and never bright green neon when you're sending a paper resume.
It's also important not to include extraneous information. Your resume should focus on the skills and attributes that qualify you for the job. Here are the top 15 things not to include on your resume.
How to Create a Professional Resume
Use the Best Resume for Your Situation
There are several basic types of resumes used to apply for job openings. Depending on your personal circumstances, choose a chronological, a functional, combination, or a targeted resume. Taking the time to target your resume is well worth the effort.
Use Resume Writing Resources
Here's resume writing advice, cover letters for resumes, how to write a resume, resume posting, resume services, and resume writing tips.
Review Professional Resume Formats, Templates and Samples
Resume samples that fit a variety of employment situations. These sample resumes and templates provide job seekers with examples of resume formats that will work for almost every job seeker
Get Creative
Use one of these free resume websites to create an online resume that includes all the facets of a traditional resume, with add-ons like video, images, and links to your accomplishments.
Check Your Resume
This resume checklist includes the information you need to include on your resume. Use the checklist to make sure you have included all relevant information in your resume.
Proof Your Resume
Typos can make an applicant seem inattentive to details. Review these proofing guidelines to ensure that your resume is consistent and error free.
Get Resume Help
Writing a resume is hard work and it's important to get help, or at least have your resume reviewed, before you send it to employers. Here's more information on where to find resume help.