The first step is to decide what type of resume best fits your needs. (See "The Resume," "Resume Types." Then, follow the steps below to prepare either a chronological or functional resume in a scanable layout:
- Keep the design simple; the equipment reads words, not pictures.
- Prepare resume on white paper.
- Do not bold, italicize, or underline any information.
- Use a size 12 simple font (such as: Arial, Courier, or Helvetica).
- Do not use hollow bullets.
- Do not use symbols such as the number (#) sign.
- Leave white spaces between sections of the resume so the computer can read it easily.
- Print only on one side of the paper.
- Use common language.
- Use KEYWORDS and phrases that are commonly used in your career field to describe your skills and experience.
- Do not fold the resume. Mail the resume in a large envelope with extra postage.
E-mail Resumes
Also, remember to use the scannable resume style when sending your resume via e-mail. The guidelines for e-mail resumes are similar to scannable resumes. The only difference is that bullets should not be used when preparing an e-mail resume. The simplified style makes it easier for computers to scan your resume.
