RESUME DO’S AND DON’TS
                       
Resume DO’S:

Format and wording should be clear and concise. Proofread to avoid mistakes ‑ spelling and grammar should be perfect.

An entry‑level resume should be kept brief ‑ limit information to one page, if possible, two pages maximum. For those who have extensive experience, a longer resume is appropriate.

Use action words (refer to list on page 13) to highlight your problem‑solving abilities, in addition to outlining your professional skills and job responsibilities.

Laser print copies onto quality paper.

Always send a cover letter or cover email with your resume.

Only fax your resume and cover letter when the company specifies it or if you are trying to meet a submission deadline. Mail the original resume and cover letter to the employer as a follow‑up to the faxed copy.

Only use abbreviations that are common to potential readers such as B.A., M.B.A., etc.

Make sure the design of your resume does not overwhelm the content. If you use graphics, make sure they are appropriate and compliment the message of your professional resume.

Consider revising your resume ‑ if after several months you've received little or no response.

Resume DON'TS:

Personal information such as age, health, race, marital status and religious preference should not be listed.

Absolutely no spelling errors.

"RESUME" should not appear anywhere on your resume.

Do not write your resume in the "first person"! Begin each sentence or phrase with an action word to describe your experience, rather than using “I” statements.

Do not cram too much information on your resume ‑ leave some white space on the page and edit resume content appropriately.

In general, try to avoid listing high school education or experiences, hobbies or interests unless they are career related.

Get some advice before you send out any resumes!
Knowing how to prepare and write your resume is a skill that you will use throughout your life. The Career Services staff can assist you with this process and will critique your resume during individual appointments. Too busy to schedule an appointment?  Email your resume to us and we will read it over and email it back to you with our suggestions.