When working with a new candidate, they often ask me for feedback on their resume's content and formatting. In most cases, I make very few suggestions, as most candidates already have well-written resumes that need little reworking. When I do suggest changes, it is usually for the same recurring issues, so I have compiled a list of resume do's and don'ts that might be helpful when ensuring your resume is ready for review.
Do's:
Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description: Customizing your resume for each job application to highlight your relevant experience may increase your chances for an interview. This is optional, but a few bullet points go a long way.
Quantify Achievements: Use numbers to demonstrate your impact. For example, mention how you led a team of a specific size, the revenue brought in through your individual sales, or the cost savings your project achieved.
Showcase Technical Skills: Listing your relevant programming languages, tools, and technologies is important, but it's even better if you describe how you use them.
Highlight Leadership: If you've held leadership roles, managed teams, mentored, or coached, emphasize these experiences.
Use Verbs: Starting each bullet point with strong action words like "developed," "implemented," "led," or "optimized" conveys a sense of achievement.
Don'ts:
Overcrowd with Details or Repeat Bullet Points: Keep your resume concise. Aim to keep it within 1-2 pages if possible.
Forget Key Information: Include details such as where you received your degree from, the dates of your employment, and current certifications.
Use Pictures, Colors, or Crazy Fonts: Leave the pictures for your LinkedIn profile.
Leave Out Your Contact Info: Your email address should be professional and up-to-date. You don't need to include your full address, just the city. A link to your LinkedIn profile is helpful.