How to Format Your
Resume:
Form Matters Just as Much
as Content
by Mary G.
White
When it comes to using
your resume to apply for a job, it’s important to remember that form matters
just as much as content. A nice looking resume can’t make up for one that
is full of spelling errors, typos, and factually incorrect information.
However, an unattractive resume can completely undermine even the most
impressive and well-documented credentials.
In almost every
situation, it is advisable to limit your resume to a single page. There are
a few circumstances where longer resumes are acceptable, but not many. The
layout of your resume should allow for a sufficient amount of white space
around the edges of the page. One inch margins all the way around the
document are ideal, although it may be acceptable to shrink margins a little
bit if necessary to fit the document on a single page.
The font that you use
should be clear and easy to read. Ideally, you should use 12 point type.
If you need to use a smaller font to make your resume fit on one page, you
can go to a 10 point font, but never smaller. You can make your name and
contact information a little bit larger so that they stand out on the page.
Verdana and Arial are
excellent resume fonts because they are easy to read and the transmit well
via fax. You should never use ornate fonts on your resume, such as Algerian
or Bradley Hand. These fonts are nice for invitations and other casual
communications, but they are not appropriate for a resume.
If you are going to
fax your resume to prospective employers, it is advisable to print it on
plain white copy paper for ease of transmission. If you are going to hand
deliver it or mail your resume, you should invest in high quality resume
paper, which you can find at any department or office supply store. Stick
with white, beige, or gray paper. Pink paper does not send a professional
message, nor does any other pastel, bright, or patterned paper.
When mailing your
resume, make sure that the printed document is free from smudges, wrinkles,
and anything else that might detract from its appearance. Neatly fold the
document so that it fits perfectly inside a #10 envelope that matches the
paper on which it is printed. Be sure to type the recipient’s address as
well as your return address in the envelope using the same typeface you used
on your resume.
If your resume isn’t
attractive, no matter how well-written the document is, you aren’t likely to
experience positive results when you use it to apply for jobs.
About the Author:
Mary Gormandy White is
a career and training expert who specializes in customer service,
management, and career development training at Mobile Technical Institute
http://www.mobiletechwebsite.com. She also works with MTI Business
Solutions, providing marketing, writing, and SEO consulting services to a
wide variety of clients. Stop by
http://www.dailycareerconnection.com regularly to read more tips for
improving your professional skills and career prospects.
*This article may be reprinted provided the
author bio and website links are included. |
