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How Should I Bind My Resume?

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The binding of a document refers to the method by which the pages are held together. Books, for example, are usually bound by thread and pamphlets might be bound by staples. For your resume, consider binding techniques that are simple and professionally presentable. The last thing you want to do is have your resume overlooked because it is too decorative.

Make sure that each page of your resume has a page number on it as well as your last name. Although you'll be binding the pages together, there's a chance that the hiring manager or HR department will detach the pages for review. You want to make sure that the pages of your resume are taken as a whole.

Place your resume and cover letter inside a protective plastic document sleeve. Not only will the sleeve serve the purpose of keeping the pages neat, it will also allow the hiring manager to pull out your resume, review it, and then file it away if necessary.

Bind your resume using a single paper clip if you do not have access to plastic protective document sleeves. Paper clips are better than staples because they can be easily removed. Since some human resources departments prefer to scan resumes into a computer database, you'll make the job easier by using a disposable paper clip.

Tip

As a rule of thumb, keep your resume reduced to a single page. Only in instances where you have acquired several years of experience in the same industry should you need to use more than one page.

Tips
  • As a rule of thumb, keep your resume reduced to a single page. Only in instances where you have acquired several years of experience in the same industry should you need to use more than one page.
Writer

Since 2006, Pilar Ethridge has had the pleasure of honing her writing skills as the assistant editor of the newsletter from a Washington, D.C. nonprofit organization. Her interests include children's media, film, American pop culture, crafts, and performing arts in general. Based in Southern California, Ethridge received a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of California.

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