How Should My Resume Look Like

Though it can be difficult in creating a resume-either for the first or twentieth time-there are some basic elements to how it should look, that should be incorporated into every professional resume-if it is to be successful at getting a position. Here are those most basic elements, so that you know how your resume should look:

Professional: First off, your resume should look-above all-professional. It should have all the standard sections on education, employment history, achievements, and contact information. Moreover, all the headings should match and spacing should be consistent. Keeping a constant and clear format to any resume-no matter what type of resume you choose to use-will keep potential employers reading, and considering you the professional applicant that you are.

Simple Format: In ensuring that your resume looks professional, you should also ensure that you keep a very simple format. Though you may be tempted to create a resume that is unique and stands out, so that the employer notices your resume amongst thousands-it will only be for negative attention that they will notice it-no matter how beautiful you have crafted it. Instead, if you want to have your candidacy stand out and get noticed in a positive light, address them with a customized resume that has everything that they require and recommend in their job posting. Moreover, in the attached cover letter, make sure to create a catchy introduction-one that is not a template form that everyone uses. This way you get the attention, while still be professional in the font, font size, and monochromatic format.

Content Focused: Remember, that an employer is focusing on the content of your resume-not any creative tabbing or other effects you may have added to it. This said, make sure to keep the format simple, and spend less time on format; and more time on what you are actual telling them about your career qualifications.

Simple Font: Use a simple font for all resume, cover letter, and professional documents that you send an employer. It is much easier for them to read, as well as review for a quick idea of what you offer as a candidate. You do not want to have complex and artistic lettering, bolding, italics, or underlining in any way, shape, or form-as it is all about the content. If it is too hard to read, an employer will easily trash it before even reading a line. So, make sure to use the standard and straight lettered fonts, such as: Calibri, times new roman, Arial, etc and use a font size of no larger than 12, and no smaller than 10. You can use bold, but only for headers.

No Images or Extras: Lastly, make sure not to offer any extras in the way of extraneous images or design. Again, employers only have an interest in your content. Aside from it being in a standard professional format, they have no interest in any images or graphics you have used to enhance the presentation.