Business Etiquette for Resumes
Nothing is more distracting to potential employers than receiving resumes that do not follow standard business etiquette. Remember these few guidelines to make sure your resume appears professionally prepared.
Other People Are Reading
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Paper and Color
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When sending a hard copy of your resume, always use high-quality paper in a neutral color: white or off-white is preferable. Generally speaking, avoid "colorful" paper, as it may be considered "unprofessional" by some. Use plain black ink.
Length
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Regardless of the depth of your experience, a business resume should usually be no longer than a single page. Condense your material and be concise in your descriptions.
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Format
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No one format is "correct" in a good resume, but keep your resume as easy to read as possible. Use a standard 12-point font; Times New Roman and Arial are two very common fonts used in resumes. Avoid fancy, hard-to-read fonts. Arrange your information using bullets or other similar indicators. This will help readers key in on specific items. Have at least 1-inch margins on all sides.
Arrangement
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Begin your resume with your contact information. Then start your resume content with your most impressive qualifications. If you have minimal work experience but an impressive record of formal education, then make your first heading "Education." If your work experience is more impressive, then begin with that. Always use simple categories, such as "Education," "Work Experience," and "Computer Proficiencies." Always place most recent accomplishments first.
References
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Do not include references on the first page of your resume. Because you only have a single page, references should be provided on a separate sheet.
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