How to make a resume computer friendly.

Highly competitive job positions can have hundreds sometimes thousands of applicants. Have you ever wondered how they filter through the resumes. Many completive companies use resume scanning software. In this case, all the resumes are scanned in by a secretary and are search through electronically. Many great applicants are lost in this process due to not following simple guidelines in making a computer friendly resume. Learn how to format your resume to survive being scanned into a resume filtering program.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer.
• Resume.
• Paper.
• Printer.

1. Only send original printed resumes. Photocopies and faxed copies usually lack clarity and are difficult to scan. If you fax a resume, it is best to follow it up by sending a resume and cover letter through mail. Remember to mention in your cover letter that you have already sent a fax version.
2. Use plain paper, 8 1/2 by 11 white or slightly off white paper is best. Text printed on colored paper is difficult to scan into a resume software program and can hurt your chances of your resume being noticed.
3. Pay attention to your font's size and style. It is best to use popular font styles and limit size somewhere between 10 to 14. Avoid fancy fonts at all costs.
4. Avoid graphics and extra lines on your resume. They will be hard to scan and can be misread easily.
5. Check Identification information. Use parentheses around the area code in telephone numbers. Separate your e-mail address, phone number, and fax number into different lines to avoid confusion.
6. Use care when sending your resume through the mail. Use a 9" by 12" envelope to avoid creases from folding. Use paper clips to adjoin papers, do not use staples.