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Do: Vary sentence structures. Resume writing is not
prose, so try to keep all your sentences under 25 words. Punchy sentences
often convey considerable force to the reader. At the same time, a resume
with 40 sentences all 12 words in length will come off boring, elementary
and platitudinous. Try to shoot for an average of about 18 words. One little
secret to writing a shorter sentence — Start with a clause: follow with a
colon and then add bullets of information relating to your introductory
clause.
Don't: Use pronouns like "I." For
example, underneath the heading of your last internship, don't write "I
researched South American economic statistics." Write, "Researched..."
You'll save space and add force to your accomplishments.
Do: Add bullets to your
accomplishments to make them stand out.
Don't: Use clichéd adjectives like
dynamic or self-starting. Instead, use detailed descriptions of
your accomplishments to convince the employer. On a similar note, job duties
are not accomplishments. Show how you excelled.
Do: Ask someone else to proofread
your resume for spelling and grammar.
Don't: Send a resume without a cover
letter. It may sound obvious to some of you, but you'd be surprised how many
people just send a resume as a way to get their name out there.
Do: Use good quality paper (at least
50% cotton is considered good paper). The paper you print your research
papers on won't cut it. Standard 8 ½" x 11" size is fine. Do not use scented
or decorative paper - this is not Legally Blonde.
Source:
United States Department of
Veteran's Affairs -
VetSuccess.gov |
