Resume Writing Tips & Tricks

Use this guide to organize and present your education and experiences in a way that will appeal to employers. Be creative, unique, concise, organized, and error free. When you have drafted your resume have others look at it, including friends and
family, but especially a career professional.

Rules of Thumb:

• Don’t use MS Word Templates 
• Don’t be modest! 
• Assure consistent format & font 
• Have your resume reviewed 
• No longer than 2 pages 
• 1 page for recent graduates 
• Set margins to at least .75” 
• Bold important information 
• Don’t use “I” statements 
• Spell out acronyms    
• Keep it organized! 
• Print on quality resume paper 
• Use a common font, 10-12 pt.  
• No spelling mistakes 
• Target to a specific job/occupation 

Writing a resume can be a daunting experience. The following is a list of tips compiled from the advice of employers, career counselors, and recent graduates whose resumes helped them land meaningful employment.

• Pay careful attention to spelling, punctuation, grammar, and style.
• Proofread your resume carefully, using a dictionary and style book  and have several other people proofread it as well.
• Organize information in a logical fashion.
• Keep descriptions clear and to the point.
• Confine your information to one page.
• Use a simple, easy-to-read font.
• Use good-quality white or off-white bond paper.
• Include as much work experience as possible, even if it doesn’t obviously relate to the job you’re seeking.
• Tailor your information to the job you’re seeking.
• Seek help at your career services center.
• For more information on preparing a resume and other jobsearch ideas, visit your career center.