Quick Read. Your resume will be reviewed in as little as ten seconds. After reading
the first few lines of your resume, recruiters will determine if you have caught their
interest, or they will pass you up for the opportunity.
Highlight skills, achievements, and what you learned. Avoid creating a duty list to
describe your work experience (Example: mopped floors, greeted guests). With each
position, highlight your accomplishments and focus on things that are relevant to
the job you are seeking.
Be Brief. In most cases, your resume should not exceed one page in length. Exceptions
are if you have had multiple internships or co-ops, are applying for a teaching position,
have a Master’s degree, or at least 10 years of full-time experience. Note: Federal
resumes are expected to be multiple pages in length, based upon your experience.
Format, Format, Format.
Only use one font type and size. Except for your name (16-18pt. font), font size should
be between 10.5 and 12 points to make it and easy to read.
Margins should be between .5 in—1 in.
Make a few things stand out by using bold or all caps, but don’t overdo it
Write all job descriptions in reverse chronological order (most recent to least recent)
Describe current jobs using present tense verbs and former jobs using past-tense verbs
Print your final, CDS-approved resume on quality white or ivory resume paper.
Sell yourself! All of the experiences you have had in college are important, so include
them in your resume. This includes part-time jobs, being a part of student organizations,
leadership experiences, community service projects, related class projects, and more!
Present a professional image. Email addresses such as DaBullDawg@gmail.com may have
personal meaning to you, but to employers, it lacks professionalism. Use your university
email address.
Check your Voicemail. Make sure that the greeting on the telephone number provided
on your resume is professional.
Keep it Private. Do not include personal information such as marriage status or gender
on your resume.
