Resumes & Cover Letters

Resume Format & Content

Format

• Margins on the page should be 0.8” - 1” on the top and 0.5” - 1” on the sides and bottom

• Use simple and readable fonts (i.e. Calibri, Times New Roman)

• Size  11 Font

• Single spaced

• Concise, only include relevant information

• 2-5 bullet points per experience in this format: Power verb (skill) + identifiable task + purpose/method/result (data/numbers)

Content (what to include)

• Name and contact information, including LinkedIn URL (see how to shorten/simplify your LinkedIn URL here) 

• Objective/summary - Briefly introduce yourself, skills/experience, and area you are seeking work. This should be tailored to each job you apply for and be no more than 3 sentences long

• Education 

• Work experience 

  • Include only the most relevant experience (i.e. if you have enough experience relevant to your area of study, do not include your job as a barista)

  • Highlight what you did/achieved in your previous roles. Your resume should include data and numbers to show what you produced and how you were impactful to previous employers. 

• Optional: Certifications or Licensure; Campus Involvement; Honors, Awards, Scholarships; Community Involvement; Professional Affiliations; Class or Design Projects; Notable Achievements

Types of resumes

• Chronological - Highlight information starting with the most recent. Prioritize your sections so you start with the most important first! (Typically recommended)

• Functional – Highlight information in categories based on commonly grouped skills. This type is useful for those with a wide variety in work history, but can demonstrate similar skills. (Only recommended for those with varied employment history) 

It is best not to include a headshot on your resume!

• Employers will be able to see your headshot on LinkedIn, so there is no strong reason to include it on your resume as well. In fact, it may negatively impact your chances of getting a job as employers may be wary of discrimination and bias and avoid resumes with photos, and the photo will take up valuable space on the page that should preferably be filled with your skills/experience.