Resume Formatting: What Works Best
Creating a resume can be a daunting task, especially if you are unsure about what constitutes as good formatting. In this article, we will discuss what formatting techniques work best when writing a resume.
Font and Size
When writing a resume, it's important to select a font and size that is easy to read. A good font choice is Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri in a size 10-12 font. The font size should be consistent throughout the entire document, and headings should be slightly larger.
White Space
It's important to have enough white space on your resume to avoid overwhelming the reader. White space refers to the blank space between sections, paragraphs, and lines of text. You can add white space by using a slightly larger font size for headings, or by adjusting margins.
Headings
When organizing your resume, use headings to break up the different sections. Some common headings include "Education," "Experience," and "Skills." Headings should be bolded or underlined, and in a slightly larger font size than the rest of the text.
Bullet Points
When describing your experience and skills, use bullet points instead of paragraphs. This makes your resume easier to read and helps to draw attention to important information. Bullet points should be short and concise, using strong action verbs.
- E.g. Managed a team of 5 employees
- E.g. Developed and implemented a new sales strategy
Consistency
Make sure that your formatting is consistent throughout the entire document, including font, font size, headings, and bullet points. Inconsistent formatting can make your resume look unprofessional and sloppy.
PDF Format
When submitting your resume electronically, it's best to save it as a PDF file. This ensures that your formatting will not be altered when viewed by potential employers. Word documents can sometimes appear differently on different computers, which can affect the way your resume is viewed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, good resume formatting is key to ensuring that your resume is easy to read and professional-looking. Remember to use a font and size that is easy to read, add enough white space to avoid overwhelming the reader, use headings and bullet points to organize your information, and keep your formatting consistent throughout the entire document. By following these tips, you will be well on your way to creating an effective and impressive resume.