Improve Your Resume Format and Design

Usually simple and clean format does the trick. If your resume doesn’t feel squished or cluttered, you’ve already done a great job. Make sure things are lined up and that overall, your resumes design is aesthetically pleasing.

The design of your resume should help highlight the most important information about your work experience, remember that employers make quick judgments when looking at resumes. If you’re in a creative field - graphic design, architecture, etc. - let your resume show off some of your skills. Include details (graphically, or in the way it’s arranged, or in word-choice) that highlight your capabilities in that job market.

Use lines and bullets to help break up sections and create order.

Use the SAME FONT throughout. However, use varying font styles. This means use italics, bolds or small caps. Do so in an orderly and consistent fashion. If you choose to use small caps for job titles, make sure all job titles are in small caps. If you choose to use italics for location, make sure all locations are in italics. Try not to have too many varying font styles. Remember simplicity is key.

Remember that the first glance creates an image - the best image you can produce for your employer without overwhelming them with anything gaudy or too creative is what you want to create.

Avoid being cutesy or too colorful. Your resume must remain professional. Again, simplicity is key!