Format
- ☐ One page (two only if you have 10+ years of relevant experience)
- ☐ Clean, simple layout with standard section headings
- ☐ Readable font, 10.5–12 pt, consistent spacing
- ☐ Saved as PDF unless the employer requests Word
- ☐ File named FirstName-LastName-Resume.pdf
Content
- ☐ Contact info: name, phone, professional email, city/state, LinkedIn (optional)
- ☐ Two- to three-line summary tailored to the target job
- ☐ Skills section using the employer’s exact keywords
- ☐ Each job shows results, not just duties (numbers where possible)
- ☐ Bullets start with strong action verbs
- ☐ Certifications and licenses listed with dates
- ☐ Education and training listed (include relevant courses)
- ☐ No photos, age, marital status or Social Security number
Tailoring
- ☐ Compared against the job description line by line
- ☐ Most relevant experience appears first
- ☐ Transferable skills highlighted if changing careers
Final check
- ☐ Spell-checked and read aloud
- ☐ Dates and job titles are accurate
- ☐ A friend or mentor reviewed it
- ☐ Tested by pasting into a plain-text box (checks ATS readability)
See the full resume guide.