Format and Writing Style

• Limit to two pages. Remember, it's a marketing document, not an autobiography.
• Use formatting to create an outline of your background. Highlight those parts of your experience that work for you and obscure what doesn't by selectively using bolds, underlines, capitalization, and italics.
• A left-justified format is the classic formatting approach; include headings (e.g., EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION) in the left margin. You may also want to include dates.
• Maintain consistency of approach. Formatting and writing style should remain consistent throughout.
• Print on 8 ½" x 11" paper. Laser printed.
• Use high-quality paper in white, off-white, or ivory.
• Create one-inch margins all around to make your resume visually appealing.
• Minimum font size should be 10 points.
• Don't use graphics. Lines are fine.
• Do not be unconventional in the physical makeup of your resume. Avoid binders, bright colors, covers, or photographs. An unusual resume may get attention for the wrong reasons.
• Proofread and spell-check your resume to ensure that there are no typographic, spelling, or grammatical errors.
• Ask others to proofread your resume (ideally, request feedback from those with experience in the particular field or industry you are seeking).

• Use language that is dynamic and concise.
• Omit the words I, me, my, the, a, an.
• Stress results and achievements. Quantify wherever possible (how much, how many, etc.).