What to Include in a Resume

• Summary at the top of the resume that includes your strengths and experience

• Job history, including volunteer activities

• Educational history and additional training

• Organizations and memberships relevant to the job

• Contact information (name, phone, email) at the top

Resume Do's and Don'ts 

• DO: use keywords from the job posting and tailor your resume to suit each application.

• DO: Be truthful. State your abilities accurately.

• DO: Keep it brief. Try to limit your resume to one page (HS Diploma or Certifications); two pages (College Degree)

• DO: Be accurate. Proofread your resume for errors. It helps to have someone look it over before submitting it. 

• DO: Keep it up-to-date and professional. Make changes as they occur, or update your resume once a year.

• DO: add "References Upon Request" at the end of your resume. You can include references if there is room.

• DO NOT: include Social Security #, birth date, marital status. This information is unnecessary on a resume. 

Creating Your Resume 

• Google Docs Templates offers free resume templates that are automatically saved and always available online—there is no need to save to a USB. It requires a free Google account.

• resume.com offers free resume templates, using samples from professional resume experts and researched hiring data on what employers may want to see on a candidate's documents. 

• Indeed's resume builder is free and allows you to start with an empty template or upload an existing resume to pull content from.

• SimplyHired offers both resume and cover letter templates with its online platform. 

• Glassdoor has helpful resume information, samples, guides and suggestions for building a resume rather than a formal builder tool. 

Tips for choosing the right resume template

With options for style and content, choosing the right resume template is often about preference. Here are a few tips to consider: 

• Abstract formats are good for creative industries and positions, like graphic designers. 

• Simple layouts can appeal to those in finance or legal fields. 

• Consider what an employer might expect to see for your experience, education, or area of interest.

• Pick a layout and design that fits your personality and career goals.

The information from the Indeed Career Guide is provided as a courtesy and for informational purposes only.
Indeed is not a career or legal advisor and does not guarantee job interviews or offers.