9. Résumé

Tips
You have much freedom when developing your personal resume; however, there are a few tips to remember to ensure your résumé’s success:
• Try not to include anything on the resume that is controversial or could be taken in a negative light
• Put most important information on the first line of a writing block or paragraph
• Use bold caps for your name on page one
• Put your name at the top of page two on a two-page resume
• Spell out numbers under and including 10; use numerical form for numbers over and including 11
• Spell out abbreviations unless they are obvious

Tips for a More Professional Resume
• Use bullets for readability
• Quantify where possible to make it sound like you have done a lot
• Set your margins at 1" sides and 1/2 to 1" top and bottom
• Font size should be between 10-12
• Double space between sections
• Use bold, underline, size, or italics for emphasis
• Have it reviewed by more than one person
• Print on letter quality paper in a neutral color

Common Mistakes
Common mistakes in resumes can often be overlooked. This is why it is important to have your resume reviewed by proper professionals, family, and friends. This will ensure the best quality resume.

DO'S & DON'TS
• Name and/or address is too small / too big (headings and name should be at least font size 14 to 16; address 11 or 12)
• Font size for entire resume is too small / too big / all caps (not counting the headings, text should be no smaller than 11; no larger than 12)
• Needs an Objective or Title Heading (make it clear to the reader what position you are seeking. If you unsure, consider career counseling or purchase/rent a book on career choices)
• Could use a Summary or Profile statement (show your career overview)
• Objective is weak, cliché, unclear, or vague (State what you can do for the employer; not only what you want from them)
• Resume does not support Objective (be sure to make a connection)
• Lacks accomplishments / career achievements (sell it, don't tell it!)
• Lacks industry-specific terminology / Keywords ("speak" the reader's language)
• Jobs are not in the proper order-see below for more on resume tips and formats
• Sentences are too choppy-five words per bullet (expand; make it interesting)
• Wording is weak; statements are too simple (use action verbs and a thesaurus)
• Same information repeated too many times (use a functional/combination format)
• Too many typos and grammatical errors (read it backwards; have a friend proof-read it!)
• Unrelated jobs go back too far in years (keep it to 7-10 years in most cases)
• Includes too much unrelated information (stay on track; keep the position in mind)
• Does not include enough related information (show how well rounded you are)
• Uses pronouns - "I, He, She, His, Her" (not necessary or is understood)
• Style is outdated looking (headings are underlined and followed by colons ":", the word "duties" is used, and uses "responsibilities:" as subheadings)
• Second page is too short - only a third down or less (condense/combine)
• Second page does not include your name (what if the second page is misplaced?)
• Too much or not enough white space (looks empty, inexperienced)
• Uses the full address for employers (list only the town and state)
• Uses full employment dates such as 12/11/01 (list only the month and year)
• Lists reason for leaving or explains situation (if you must, save it for the letter)
• Includes a Professional References Available Upon Request statement at the bottom of the resume (not wrong, but not necessary. Remember, this is not an option. If the employer wants references, they will ask for them)
• Includes a cover letter / salary information on the resume (use separate sheets)
• Includes unrelated personal interests and hobbies such as "enjoy reading, long walks, music, travel, knitting, and puzzles" (include interests ONLY if it is related to your career Objective)
• Includes personal information such as married, homeowner, two children (Leave off. It is unrelated to the position, and risks possible discrimination)

BASIC RESUME FORMATTING RULES
• Bold and enlarge your name at the top.
• Keep the sections lined up and consistent.
• Use an Arial or Times New Roman font (or similar).
• Font size shouldn't be smaller than 11pt or larger than 12pt, except for your Name and Headings.
• Do not include pronouns such as "I," company street addresses, salary, or reasons for leaving.
• Two-page resume: be sure to fill the second page at least halfway down the page.
• Place “Continued” at the bottom of page one, and your name and “Page 2” at the top of page two.
• Use graphics sparingly unless you are in a creative field. It is safe to use a border and shading.
• Leave out personal data, photos, and unrelated hobbies, unless you are an actor/actress or model.
• If you spell out the state in your address, such as New York, spell out the states for your jobs.
• Proof, proof, and proof again!