Use this checklist to make sure you have covered the basics for developing your resume. Remember, a resume is a marketing tool and often the most critical item in determining whether or not you will obtain an interview.
No job seeker should be without carefully chosen action verbs, adjectives, and adverbs to describe accomplishments, skills, and experiences on their resumes and cover letters!
Getting Started
Resume Rules
It must be flawless and contain no spelling or grammatical errors.
Format must be visually attractive with appropriate spacing and headings highlighted.
Quantify accomplishments when possible (numbers, dollars, percentages).
Content must be accurate and honest.
Avoid personal information such as age, marital status, height/weight.
Print resume on conservative paper (ivory, gray, or white is best for scanning).
Do not use personal pronouns or complete sentences. Use action verbs (PDF) and phrases to describe tasks and responsibilities.
If two pages, do not staple. Place your name and "Page two" on the second page.
Indicate numbers 10 and over as numerical, nine and under as written words.
Applying Online
If uploading your resume online or submitting your resume via email, convert it first to PDF format to ensure it appears correctly to the reader.
Use key words in your resume related to your industry as many employers scan for these words to identify desirable candidates.