Resume Format 101 - The Key Elements You Need to Know
Jun 27, 2023
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Regardless of the format you choose, make sure your document is written. Avoid gimmicky fonts or unique punctuation, as these could throw off the computer programs used to read resumes.For work history, a reverse-chronological format is usually the best choice. It works well for both new graduates and seasoned professionals. Emphasize your accomplishments instead of your responsibilities and use facts to support your statements whenever possible.
Header
A solid resume header helps make your document readable by ensuring that all critical information is visible. It should feature your name and a summary of your work experience.
If you want your resume to stand out, try using a unique typeface for the header. You can opt for a sans serif like Helvetica or explore expressive scripts to make your name pop.
You can also add your career highlights to the header to help employers understand the value you bring to their company. Be mindful of the amount of information you include, though – it’s best to keep this section short.
Body
Start with your name and contact information in the body of your resume. This should be at the top of the page in a font that’s easy to read. Arial and Times New Roman are popular choices.
Then, go into your work experience in reverse chronological order. For each job, include the company name, position title, and years of employment. Use bullet points for recent roles and paragraphs for older ones. Focus on the impact you made in each role. Hiring managers want to know what you accomplished, not just your responsibilities. Use action verbs and power words to emphasize your accomplishments.
Summary
A great template for your resume includes key elements like a profile summary, work experience, and education sections. Then you can include all the optional extras to make it unique and stand out from other applications.
For example, if you’re applying for a journalism job, you could add your own blog and freelance writing projects. Similarly, you can highlight your transferable skills and relevant volunteer work or internships if you want to move between industries.
This format is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to showcase their career progression. It starts with your most recent position at the top and then goes backward so recruiters can see your entire career path. It’s easy to read and skimmable, making it a popular option for senior executives and entry-level candidates.
Contact Information
Having the correct contact information on your resume is essential so employers can quickly contact you. This typically includes your name, email address, and phone number. Depending on the job, you may also want to include your mailing address, but this is not always necessary.
Your name should be in a font that is large enough to read but not too large to look unprofessional. Generally, a font size of 11 or 12 is recommended. Using a consistent font throughout your resume and single or 1.5 line spacing is also a good idea.
Having your name in bold or highlighted font is also a good idea. This helps ensure that your name stands out to the hiring manager. It can also help them find your name more quickly when scanning through applications. This is especially helpful if you have an unusual name.
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