Questions and Answers for Your Resume

Your resume format matters, which is why job seekers often struggle putting together a document that clearly outlines their skills and achievements. Learn how to craft application materials that are designed to showcase your experience and skills professionally in order to capture the attention of hiring managers and potential employers.

What is the Best Format?

While many job seekers spend time during their job search adding bells and whistles to their resume format, the most important element is crafting a document that is easy to read. Create sections with bold headings and use bullet points to detail your duties of each position. Include a section for your work history, education and relevant skills. Make sure your name and contact information are displayed prominently at the top of the document. Some job seekers also include a summary section or short profile that outlines the type of position they are seeking while touching on their most impressive skills and proficiencies.

What is the Best Order for Information?

A chronological resume format is most common; however, you might want to consider using a functional format during your job search. Functional resumes focus primarily on your accomplishments versus a clear timeline of your work history. This type of resume format may be beneficial for individuals with vast experience in the industry; however, if the structure impacts the readability of the document, stick with a chronological structure.

What is the Appropriate Length?

A common myth when it comes to resume format is that you should stick to one page. This myth is just that -- a myth. If you need to filter over to two pages to thoroughly detail your experience, skills and education, then break the one-page rule. It's crucial for employers to see just how qualified you are for the position, so avoid cutting vital information just to stick to a one-page format.

What Information Should Be Included in the Education Section?

Clearly, the education section should include any colleges or universities you have attended with corresponding degrees front and center. Employers, though, want to see more than just a simple list of degrees. Detail the coursework you have taken and expand upon projects and tasks that are relevant to the position. In addition, you can also list certifications you have gained through professional development. Showcase any proficiencies you have gained with software and hardware, too, to highlight your educational achievements.

How you present yourself on paper can make or break your opportunities as a professional. Detail your skills, recognition within the industry, on-the-job achievements and education in a consistent manner when compiling your application materials. Pay close attention to the resume format to ensure it is readable, clean and concise so that employers can identify how your qualifications can better impact their firms.

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