Start here if you have never written a resume before or, if it has been awhile since you last wrote a resume.
Watch this webinar to learn more about structure and formatting your resume.Review this image to see the parts of a resume along with some additional tips.
Structure + Formatting
Page Set-up
Margins .5”-1” all around
Font 10-12pt
Easy-to-read font
Name should be 16+ font size
Spacing- consistent, balance text and space
Sections
Include Education, Relevant Experience, and/or Leadership Experience, and Skills.
Additional sections might include: Volunteer Experience or Campus Involvement.
Each entry should be consistent. Placement of organization name, position title, location, dates, formatting (italics, bold, CAPS, underline, etc.).
Use the active rather than passive voice.
Begin with a strong, active verb that best represents what you contributed.
Use present tense for current activities and past tense for past activities.
Each section should be organized in reverse chronological order.
Use numbers instead of writing them out, for example, use 5 instead of five.
Must Dos
Consistency is key.
Place important information toward the top of the document.
Proofread to avoid spelling or grammatical errors.
Ask for a resume review.
Avoid
Avoid personal pronouns in the resume.
Avoid the phrases “responsible for” or “duties include.”
A photo is not recommended on a resume if you are applying to opportunities within the USA.
Don’t include tables to organize the document.
Don’t use full sentences or paragraphs to describe your experiences.
References are separate from your resume. Make them their own document with the same header as your resume.
Tips
Keep your resume to one page in length.
Have a master resume. Master resumes include all of your experiences from University forward and, there is no page limit. It’s just for your personal use to keep everything in one place for easy access and updating.
