Welcome to my guide on how to format your resume for success! In today’s job market, having a well-crafted, easy-to-read resume can make all the difference in getting hired. So, let’s dive into the dos and don’ts of formatting your resume.

DO: Choose the Right Fonts

Choosing the right fonts is essential for a professional and legible resume. Stick to classic fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri, with a font size of 11 or 12. Avoid script fonts or ones that are difficult to read. Good typography will help keep your resume clean and readable and make a great first impression.

A graphic of different fonts with the title "Choose the Right Fonts" above it.

DON’T: Use Fancy Formatting and Graphics

While fonts do play an important role, it’s important not to go overboard with fancy formatting or graphics. Keep your resume minimalistic and professional. Stick to black and white and use simple borders to separate different sections. Adding too many graphics can make your resume look unprofessional and cluttered.

A graphic of a cluttered and unprofessional resume with the title "Use Fancy Formatting and Graphics" above it.

DO: Highlight Your Achievements and Skills

Highlighting your achievements and skills is an excellent way to make your resume stand out. Start each bullet point with an action verb, followed by the accomplishment and its result. Focus on quantifiable results whenever possible. This format will show potential employers that you are dedicated and capable of delivering results.

A graphic of a resume with a section titled "Achievements and Skills" with bullet points that list accomplishments and their results.

DON’T: Be Too Wordy

Although you want to highlight your achievements and skills, try not to be too wordy. Keep your bullet points concise and to the point. Your resume should ideally be only one or two pages long. Using long paragraphs or a variety of fonts can cause employers to skim over your resume rather than read it in detail.

A graphic of a resume with a section titled "Too Wordy" with long paragraphs and different fonts.

DO: Tailor Your Resume for Each Job

Tailoring your resume for each job you apply for is crucial. Make sure to read the job description and understand the requirements. Then, you can adjust your resume to match the specific qualifications listed in the job posting. This strategy will show the employer that you have taken the time to research the company and are genuinely interested in the position.

A graphic of a resume with a section titled "Tailor Your Resume for Each Job" with a job posting next to it and specifically listed qualifications that align with the resume.

DON’T: Include Irrelevant Information

Including irrelevant information can hurt your resume and be counterproductive. Stay focused on the job requirements and cut out any experiences that aren’t relevant to the position. Keep your resume clean, simple and to the point. If something is not beneficial to the position you’re applying for, it doesn’t need to be there.

A graphic of a resume with a section titled "Irrelevant Information" with bullet points listing unimportant experiences.

By following these dos and don’ts of formatting your resume for success, you will surely create a winning resume that will help land that perfect job for you. Remember to keep it professional, use classic fonts, highlight your achievements and tailor it for each job. Good luck on your job search!

A graphic of a computer with a "Success" sign on the screen. The title reads "The DOs and DON'Ts of Formatting Your Resume for Success."