Resume Tips, Career Center, Ball State University

Résumé Tips

Do . . .

Make certain your résumé is well spaced and visually attractive.
Make your résumé concise.
Use action words and sentence fragments to describe your experiences. Quantify your experiences wherever possible.
Be consistent in your use of dates, numbers, abbreviations, etc.
Check and recheck for errors; look closely for mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Have someone else critique and proofread your résumé.
Select quality bond paper for your final copies. Use white, ivory, cream, beige, buff, or light gray paper.
Use a letter-quality or laser printer and black type.
Fold and mail your résumé in a matching envelope or mail it flat in a 9" x 12" white or manila envelope.

Don't . . .

Type "Résumé" above your name.
State your reasons for leaving a job.
Use abbreviations or contractions.
Write lengthy prose.
Use multiple fonts, typographic symbols, or other visual elements.
Use personal pronouns (I, we, my).
Include a photograph.
Mention personal data (e.g., height, weight, health, age or date of birth, marital status, race, religion, sex, etc.).